In the latest version of iOS 17 (fall release for the public, available now via Apple’s beta program) there is a new feature that you can use with your iPhone called StandBy. This feature activates when your iPhone is plugged in and charging (preferably from a charging stand) and is in landscape mode. Once your iPhone is plugged in and charging it takes on the persona of an “old timey” nightstand clock. The functionality is surprisingly diverse; offering more than just the time. Through the use of widgets, you can include things like a Reminders list, and the temperature (I cannot wait to see what CARROT Weather does with this). There is a very cool feature called Night Mode which, when toggled on, will produce a red tint, like the Wayfinder watch face on my beloved Apple Watch Ultra, when in a low ambient lighting environment. Here’s what that looks like in the wild…

It’s hard to see in this picture but my iPhone 14 is charging on a Belkin MagSafe 2-in-1 Wireless Charging Stand. I took this picture just before getting up so you could see what it looks like in a low ambient light setting.

The StandBy feature is easy enough to use; just tap the iPhone and whatever your set up is will display immediately. For me, that display remains on for 20 seconds due to the fact that I own an iPhone 14. Those of you with Always-On display functionality will have this glanceable information readily available.

Even though I wear my beloved Apple Watch Ultra to bed with me, it’s nice to know that this information is just, for me, a tap away on my nightstand.