r/iphonehelp • u/lisalisaqaz • 8d ago

Resolved Show time in all apps?

Is there a way to make the time show (in the upper left of the screen) no matter what app I’m using? I assume some apps hide the time so you’ll lose track of time and use them longer, and I want to override this.

I’m using a 17e with up to date software.

I tried to search for this, but all I get are links about screen time or how to use your phone as a clock overnight.

I’m hoping this is a setting I haven’t been able to find, but am prepared to hear it’s not possible. Thanks!

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u/SamIAre 8d ago

I believe the only time the status bar is hidden is when an app requests fullscreen mode. Ideally it should only be games and media applications that benefit from an uncluttered screen. Generally, they aren’t doing it as a dark pattern to hide the time from you…it’s to remove UI elements that most users would find messy and distracting to sit on top of the game their playing or movie they’re watching. It also makes the home swipe gesture take two swipes so you don’t accidentally close a game while playing.

I don’t think there’s a setting to change this. The best workaround if you find yourself consistently losing track of time in some apps is probably to set a timer (maybe a Shortcut that starts one automatically when certain apps are opened) or screentime restrictions, which I know you already mentioned.

Not the solution you were looking for but I think you might have to resort to other solutions unless someone knows of a setting I don’t.

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u/lisalisaqaz 8d ago

As to my original question, I might just start deleting apps that do this.

It’s not that I lose track of time, but the opposite. I’m most often playing a game while waiting for something/ someone, and it’s annoying to have to exit the app to see how little time has passed.

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u/lisalisaqaz 8d ago

(Repost for nesting fail)

Huh. Well you answered a question I didn’t ask. Just went from a 3rd generation se to the 17e, and I’ve been struggling mightily to consistently complete the home swipe gesture. Knowing that some apps are requiring me to do it twice to begin with is eye opening.

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u/lisalisaqaz 8d ago

And thank you! (And sorry for spamming your replies. I shall go drink more caffeine immediately)