How to get iOS-like StandBy mode on your Pixel phone

One of iOS 17’s standout features was undoubtedly StandBy mode. This is particularly useful for bedside displays and workplace productivity. Surprisingly, Google Pixel phones lack a direct first-party equivalent to this feature. However, by leveraging the Pixel ‘Stay awake’ Developer option, you can recreate the iOS StandBy experience on your Pixel phone.

Before diving into the guide, ensure that your Pixel phone is up to date and that developer mode is enabled (turn it on by tapping the ‘Build number’ 7 times in Settings > About phone). Once these prerequisites are met, follow these simple steps to get iOS-like StandBy mode on your Pixel phone:

1. Locate the Settings app on your home screen or app drawer and launch it.



2. Within the Settings app, scroll down and tap on the ‘System’ option.



3. Look for and tap on ‘Developer options’ near the bottom of the System settings menu. If this option isn’t readily visible, it might require enabling as described in the section above.



4. Within the Developer options menu, locate the ‘Stay awake’ setting and toggle it to the ‘On’ position. This crucial step prevents your phone from entering sleep mode while charging, ensuring any app you run remains active.



5. (Optional) For an enhanced StandBy experience, consider utilizing the split-screen feature. This allows you to display two apps simultaneously, maximizing the utility of your phone’s screen. For instance, you could display a clock app alongside your calendar app, providing both time and upcoming events at a glance.

While this method doesn’t replicate the visual fidelity of iOS’s StandBy mode, it effectively serves its core purpose. Your Pixel phone stays awake while charging, allowing you to display the information you deem most valuable. This can be particularly beneficial as a bedside clock or a convenient way to monitor the time, date, and upcoming appointments during the workday.

It’s important to acknowledge that enabling the Stay awake feature can potentially impact battery health, as your phone remains powered on for a longer duration. Therefore, it’s advisable not to actively utilize the StandBy-like functionality.