If you have ever struggled to read the time on your iPhone from your nightstand or car mount, a new feature in iOS 26 can probably help. The latest software update, released this week, introduces a simple way to make the lock screen clock bigger.
This change addresses a common frustration for users who find the default clock size too small for quick glances from a distance. The process to enlarge the clock is straightforward and built directly into the lock screen’s customization options.
To get started, first navigate to your iPhone’s lock screen. Then, press and hold on a blank area until the customization menu appears. Tap the “Customize” button that shows up at the bottom of the screen.
You will now see an editing interface. Look for a small handle in the lower-right corner of the clock widget. Dragging this handle downward will increase the clock’s size to your preference. Once you are satisfied, tap “Done” to apply the change.
In some cases, the resize handle might not be visible. This happens if you are using a clock style that does not support resizing. The solution is to tap on the clock itself and select a different font from the menu that appears. The first font option is a safe choice that will enable the resize handle.
It is important to know that notifications can also affect the clock’s size. When new alerts come in, the clock will automatically become smaller to make room for them. To consistently see the large clock, you will need to keep your notification list clear or adjust your settings to limit what appears on the lock screen.