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Tip of the Day

How to Set Lock Screen to Display a Focus (iOS 16)

Want to stay on track during certain activities? Learn how to create a Lock Screen for a Focus.

With iOS 16, your iPhone makes it easier than ever to stay focused when you link customized Lock Screens to different Focus modes. With this feature, you will end up with dedicated screens that will automatically appear on your iPhone during a certain period of time. Let's learn how to add Focus modes to your Lock Screens.

Why You'll Love This Tip

Create Lock Screens that can minimize distractions and help you stay on track with activities.
Remind yourself when it's time for certain activities.
Enter Focus mode just by selecting a pre-determined Lock Screen.

Before you attempt the steps below, make sure you have updated to iOS 16. You will also need to have Focus modes set up. If you have never used a Focus before, read our article on how to set one up. Once you have a Focus mode created, you can link it to an existing or brand new Lock Screen.

How to Link a Focus to an Existing Lock Screen

Here's how to link it to an existing Lock Screen:

Go to Settings.
Tap Focus.
Choose a Focus.
Find the Customize Screens section and tap Choose under the Lock Screen image. You can identify the Lock Screen image because it will include the time.
Here you will see your existing Lock Screens. Tap the circle or multiple circles under the Lock Screens you wish to use for this Focus mode. You can select as many as you wish as long as at least one Lock Screen remains unlinked.
Tap Done.
The selected Lock Screen(s) will appear in the Focus customization screen.

Now, when you turn on the selected Focus mode, the first selected Lock Screen will be activated. If you change your Lock Screen to one of the linked Lock Screens, it will turn on the associated Focus mode, as well.

How to Link a Focus to a New Lock Screen

If you wish to create a brand new Lock screen for your Focus mode, here's what to do:

Tap Create a New Lock Screen instead of selecting from your existing ones in step 2.
Follow the steps to create a new Lock Screen, including adding widgets if you would like. When you're satisfied, tap Add.
Choose Set as Wallpaper Pair.

And you're done! Now you can choose this Lock Screen when you want to turn on this Focus mode.

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