Apple’s iOS 17 introduced a new feature called StandBy, which quickly became a game-changer for iPhone users. It is a docking mode for the iPhone that activates when the screen is off, the phone is charging, and it is rotated to landscape orientation. In StandBy mode, the iPhone becomes a widget machine, displaying a variety of widgets such as a full-screen clock, calendar, photo slideshow, music controls, activity progress, weather, and more. This widget mode turns the iPhone into a mini smart display, providing users with something interesting to look at even when the phone is not in use.
To activate StandBy, all you need is a charger and a way to prop the phone upright in landscape orientation. There is no need for a special accessory, although some users may opt for accessories like wireless chargers or desk holders to enhance the StandBy experience. Accessories like the HiRise 3 from Twelve South provide a convenient angle for displaying the iPhone while charging. Apple employees frequently use Twelve South’s Forte dock, which allows users to insert their own MagSafe charging disc. There are various options available in the market to suit different preferences and styles.
Setting up StandBy is simple. The first time you enter a StandBy-friendly setup, a pop-up will prompt you to turn on and configure the feature. Users can choose which widgets they want to appear in StandBy mode. For example, one can have a digital clock on the left side and a smart stack of scrolling widgets on the right side. These widgets can display weather, upcoming calendar events, to-do lists, battery status, activity scores, and more. This feature provides quick access to important information without having to navigate through the home screen.
While StandBy is a relatively new feature, not all apps support it yet. Apps that support the smallest widget size on the iPhone can potentially work with StandBy, but developers need to update their apps to enable this feature. Many developers are also making their widgets interactive, allowing users to perform tasks and access information without opening the app itself. The interactivity of widgets in StandBy mode enhances the user experience and offers the convenience of accessing important information without navigating through various screens.
Apple’s approach to widgets reflects a shift in the traditional paradigm of smartphones, which primarily focus on individual apps. Widgets aim to surface relevant information from apps, enabling users to interact with it directly. The introduction of App Clips and the Apple Watch further support this shift towards easy access and interaction with app information. Widgets that appear and function across all devices provide a more powerful and useful user experience. As widgets become more prevalent across Apple’s devices, it is crucial for the company to prioritize widget integration and improvements for a cohesive user experience.
Despite being in the early stages, StandBy proves to be a valuable and practical feature for iPhone users. It improves on the iPhone 14 Pro’s always-on display mode by offering functionality even when the phone is not in use or nearby. Users no longer need to constantly turn on their phones to check the time or upcoming appointments; StandBy provides this information conveniently. As developers embrace StandBy, there is potential for the creation of innovative and exciting widgets that take full advantage of the available screen space.
Looking ahead, it would be beneficial for Apple to consider bringing StandBy to the iPad. The iPad’s landscape orientation is better suited for StandBy, especially since many iPad apps already operate in landscape mode. Although there are challenges such as the lack of a suitable dock ecosystem and built-in MagSafe, Apple is capable of addressing these obstacles. Apple’s rumored standalone smart display could be enhanced by incorporating StandBy into an iPad.
In conclusion, StandBy is a highly useful feature that has quickly become a favorite of iPhone users. It transforms the iPhone into a mini smart display, providing a variety of widgets and easy access to important information. While there is still room for improvement, such as better integration with other iPhone features and more supported apps, StandBy has immense potential to enhance the overall user experience. As developers and Apple continue to refine this feature, users can expect even more exciting and functional widget options.
