How to Edit Existing Lock Screen Layouts in iOS 16

Apple’s iOS 16 introduced significant customization options for the iPhone Lock Screen, allowing users to alter fonts, add interactive widgets, and apply photographic filters. If you have already set up a design that you want to tweak, you do not need to build a new one from scratch. This guide walks you through the straightforward steps to modify your existing Lock Screen layouts directly from the display or via the Settings menu.

Method 1: Edit Directly from the Lock Screen

The quickest way to adjust a Lock Screen is directly from the display itself:

  1. Unlock your iPhone: Use Face ID or Touch ID, but do not swipe up to go to your Home Screen.
  2. Enter the Gallery: Touch and hold (long-press) anywhere on the empty space of your Lock Screen until the gallery view appears.
  3. Select Your Layout: Swipe left or right to browse through your saved layouts and find the one you wish to edit.
  4. Enter Customization Mode: Tap the Customize button at the bottom of the chosen layout.
  5. Select Lock Screen: Tap the Lock Screen preview on the left side to begin editing.

What You Can Modify

Once you enter customization mode, tap on the various sections of the screen to make changes:

  • Clock Font and Color: Tap the time display to open the font and color menu. You can choose from multiple font styles and pick a custom color or gradient for the text.
  • Widgets: Tap the widget area below or above the clock to add, remove, or rearrange widgets such as weather, battery levels, calendar events, or fitness rings.
  • Photo Options: If your wallpaper is a photo, tap the three dots in the bottom-right corner to toggle the Depth Effect or tap the photo icon in the bottom-left corner to choose a different image. You can also swipe left or right across the screen to apply different color filters (such as Black & White, Duotone, or Color Wash).

Saving Your Changes

  1. Once you are satisfied with your edits, tap Done in the top-right corner of the screen.
  2. Choose Set as Wallpaper Pair if you want your Home Screen to match the updated Lock Screen, or select Customize Home Screen to adjust the Home Screen background independently.
  3. Tap the screen once more to exit the wallpaper gallery and return to your newly updated Lock Screen.

Method 2: Edit via the Settings App

You can also edit your layouts through the system settings:

  1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
  2. Scroll down and select Wallpaper.
  3. Swipe horizontally to locate the Lock Screen design you want to change.
  4. Tap the Customize button beneath the Lock Screen preview on the left.
  5. Make your desired adjustments to the widgets, time, or background, and tap Done to save.