Apple has quietly changed how the Always On Display works in iOS 26, introducing a default blur effect on Lock Screen wallpapers. Since debuting with the iPhone 14 Pro, the feature has consistently shown a dimmed version of your wallpaper with visible clock, widgets, and notifications. The new blur aims to improve legibility but alters the visual experience.

Previously, users could choose whether to show their wallpaper at all, with notifications appearing alongside it. The feature would turn off entirely when the phone was face down, covered, in CarPlay, using Continuity Camera, in Low Power Mode, during Sleep Focus, or at bedtime. While customization remained limited, it offered useful control over the display's appearance.

Apple has added a toggle to restore the original behavior, found in Settings > Display & Brightness > Always On Display. Users can disable the blur to see their wallpaper in full clarity. The change sparks debate about whether blurring improves privacy and legibility or defeats the purpose of displaying a personalized photo. Some users may prefer no wallpaper at all rather than a blurred version of their Lock Screen image.