iPhone StandBy Mode Not Working: Possible Causes and Practical Fixes

Have you ever plugged in your iPhone, expecting it to switch into a smart display, only to find StandBy mode not working? It’s a common issue, especially after recent iOS updates. The feature feels like it should work right away, but a few quiet settings can block it.

In this guide, we will explain what StandBy mode is, why it might not activate, and the quickest ways to fix it. You can also find recommended chargers for iPhone StandBy mode. Let’s begin!

What Is StandBy Mode on iPhone？

StandBy mode is an innovative feature introduced in iOS 17 that turns your locked iPhone into a customizable smart display when it's charging and positioned in landscape orientation. It displays glanceable information like the time in large, stylish clocks, weather updates, calendar events, incoming notifications, and even photo slideshows or widgets for quick access. This mode is perfect for nightstands, desks, or kitchen counters. You can also use Siri hands-free without waking the device.

Unlike regular lock screen modes, StandBy leverages the iPhone's Always-On display on supported Pro models (like iPhone 14 Pro and later), keeping the screen dimly lit for constant visibility while conserving battery. On non-Pro models, the screen turns off after inactivity but can be reactivated with a tap. It's activated automatically under specific conditions: charging, horizontal placement, and locked screen. You can customize widget stacks, clock styles, and Night Mode with red tones for low light.

Overall, StandBy enhances productivity and convenience. This feature stands out for its integration with MagSafe and wireless charging, ensuring stable positioning. However, if you find iOS StandBy mode not working, it could stem from setup errors or hardware limitations. We will illustrate possible causes and fixes in the next part.

Why Is iPhone StandBy Mode Not Working and How to Fix It

The iPhone StandBy mode not working issue can fail for various reasons, from hardware incompatibilities to user errors. In this part, we will break down common causes, explaining why they prevent activation, followed by clear fixes.

1. Your iPhone model or iOS version does not support StandBy mode

StandBy mode relies on specific hardware and software capabilities introduced in iOS 17. If your device is older than iPhone XR or has not been updated, unfortunately, the feature simply is not available.

How to Fix:

First, confirm your iPhone is XR, XS, 11 series, 12 series, 13 series, 14 series, 15 series, 16 series, or SE (2nd/3rd gen). If not, upgrading to a supported model is the only solution.

For supported models, check your iOS version in Settings > General > About. If it's below iOS 17, go to Settings > General > Software Update and install the latest version if available.

2. StandBy mode or Always-On Display is not enabled in the settings

Even on compatible devices, StandBy mode might be toggled off accidentally, or Always-On display (exclusive to Pro models) could be disabled. Incorrect settings might make your phone seem like the StandBy mode is not working entirely.

How to Fix:

Navigate to Settings > StandBy and ensure the StandBy toggle is on (it's enabled by default post-update). For Pro models, also check Settings > Display & Brightness > Always On Display and turn it on.

If issues persist, toggle StandBy off and on again to reset any glitches. On non-Pro models, note that the display turns off after 20 seconds (they have no Always-On display feature); just tap the screen to wake it.

3. You’re not using StandBy mode correctly (charging, landscape, lock)

When experiencing StandBy mode iPhone not working, it can be that you are not using it in the right conditions. Please note that your iPhone must be charging, in landscape orientation at an incline, and locked. If you are placing it flat or in portrait, the sensors and software detect improper setup. As a result of that, the mode won’t activate, and you might think the StandBy mode is not working.

How to fix:

Lock your iPhone screen first, then connect it to a charger (wired or wireless). Position it horizontally on a stand or propped up, not flat. Wait a few seconds for StandBy to appear. You can also use a MagSafe-compatible stand to maintain the angle. If you still find the StandBy mode not working, double-check the lock and try restarting the device.

4. Your charger is at fault

Sometimes, the StandBy mode not working issue is caused by a faulty or incompatible charger. Without stable power, your phone can not detect charging status to activate the StandBy mode.

How to Fix:

Try a different charger. Use an official Apple Lightning/USB-C cable or MFi-certified Qi/MagSafe wireless chargers. Make sure everything is firmly plugged in and test a different power outlet. If StandBy works with another accessory, your original charger is faulty, and replace it with a reliable option.

5. You're on Low Power Mode

Low Power Mode limits background activity to save battery, and that can interfere with StandBy. When it’s on, the screen may dim or turn off too quickly, making it look like the StandBy mode is not working.

How to Fix:

Go to Settings > Battery and turn off Low Power Mode (your battery icon appears yellow when it’s active). If your phone is under 80%, plug it in until the mode turns off automatically. After that, restart your iPhone to reset StandBy’s display behavior.

6. Software glitches

Temporary bugs, cached files, or settings conflicts can disrupt StandBy triggers. This is especially common after updates, which can cause random deactivation or prevent the mode from appearing at all.

How to fix:

Restart your iPhone. Hold the side button and a volume button, slide to power off, wait 30 seconds, and turn it back on.

If the issue persists, update to the latest iOS (Settings > General > Software Update) to see if that helps.

If you still find StandBy mode not working, you can reset all settings, which could be your last resort. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings. This won’t erase your data but will reset system preferences like Wi-Fi passwords.

Recommended Wireless Chargers for iPhone StandBy Mode

To ensure seamless StandBy mode activation, a reliable charger is essential. Anker offers top-tier options compatible with MagSafe and Qi2, preventing common charger-related issues like StandBy mode not working.

1. Anker Prime Wireless Charging Station

One standout option is the Anker Prime Wireless Charging Station, a 3-in-1 powerhouse with 25W ultra-fast charging that juices your iPhone 17 Pro to 50% in 22 minutes. It uses TEC active cooling and an aerospace-grade design to keep temperatures under control, delivering stable, efficient power. The built-in 1.65" display shows real-time charging and temperature data, with Boost, Ice, and Sleep modes for tailored performance. It also supports app integration via NFC/Bluetooth for scheduling, monitoring, and timely alerts, perfect for reliable, hands-free StandBy viewing.

2. Anker MagGo Wireless Charging Station

Another excellent choice is the Anker MagGo Wireless Charging Station, a foldable 3-in-1 Qi2 charger with 15W fast charging, boosting iPhone 15 Pro to 20% in 15 minutes and Apple Watch Series 9 to 30% in 22 minutes, with MagSafe compatibility. This foldable, portable 3-in-1 Qi2 charger fits in your palm, charges multiple devices at once for a tidy setup. Optimized for StandBy mode, it provides optimal viewing angles in landscape, ensuring reliable activation without interruptions.

Conclusion

If you find StandBy mode not working on your iPhone, it's often due to compatibility, settings, or usage errors. By following the steps outlined above, you can quickly restore this convenient feature and enjoy a smarter, hands-free display.

For the best experience and stable charging, consider upgrading your setup with Anker’s reliable wireless chargers. Explore Anker products for seamless power delivery and enhanced iOS functionality now.

FAQs

Why is my iPhone StandBy mode not working?

StandBy mode may fail if your iPhone isn’t compatible or if you’re running an iOS version earlier than 17, which prevents the feature from activating at all.

It can also stop working when certain settings are disabled or when Low Power Mode is on, limiting display functions to save battery.

To fix this, confirm device compatibility, enable StandBy in Settings, and test again using an official or reliable charger.

How can I get iPhone StandBy to stay on?

If you are using a model with an Always-On display, such as the iPhone 14 Pro, make sure the feature is enabled so StandBy remains visible without dimming.

For non-Pro models, the screen turns off after about 20 seconds by design, so you will need to tap the display to wake it again.

Avoid Low Power Mode and use a stable charger to keep StandBy running smoothly without unexpected interruptions.

How do I set up StandBy mode in iOS 17?

First, ensure your iPhone is compatible and updated to iOS 17 by going to Settings > General > Software Update. Keeping your software current ensures all StandBy features function correctly.

Next, open Settings > StandBy and toggle the feature on. Here, you can customize clock styles, widget stacks, and other display preferences to suit your workflow and aesthetic.

Finally, to activate StandBy, lock your iPhone and place it horizontally while charging. You can also enable Night Mode or add photo frames for a personalized smart display experience.

What triggers StandBy mode on iPhone?

StandBy mode activates automatically when your iPhone is charging, whether via wired connection, MagSafe, or Qi wireless charging, and positioned horizontally on a flat surface.

Your device must be locked to display the interface. On Pro models, the Always-On display keeps the screen dimly lit for constant visibility without timing out.

Additional triggers include inactivity in darker environments. However, make sure Low Power Mode is off, as it might override StandBy and prevent it from activating properly.