How to use Depth Effect on iPhone

The Depth Effect on an iPhone lock screen gives your wallpaper a layered look, where part of the subject (like a person or object) appears to overlap with the time, creating a cool 3D-like effect. Here's how to enable it step-by-step:

1. Choose the Right Image

Depth Effect works best with images that have a distinct subject, such as portraits of people, pets, or objects. A photo with a clear foreground (subject) and background helps the iPhone identify which part should be layered over the time display.

2. Open the Photos App

Open your Photos app and browse through your images to find one with a good subject for the Depth Effect.

3. Set the Wallpaper

Tap on the photo you want to use, then tap the Share icon (a square with an upward arrow). Scroll down and select Use as Wallpaper.

4. Adjust the Wallpaper

The wallpaper preview will appear, showing how it looks on the lock screen. Pinch to zoom in or out and drag to adjust the positioning of the image.

5. Enable Depth Effect

On the wallpaper preview screen, you should see a Depth Effect toggle at the bottom of the screen (if available). If the iPhone detects a distinct subject in the photo, the Depth Effect button will be enabled by default. If it isn't, you can tap to toggle it on (if it can be applied).

Note: If the subject is too small, blurry, or doesn't stand out enough from the background, the Depth Effect may not be available.

6. Customize Further (Optional)

You can also tap on Customize to adjust the style, color filters, or clock font to better match the wallpaper.

7. Set as Lock Screen

Once you're happy with the look of the wallpaper, tap Set at the bottom of the screen, then choose Set as Lock Screen.

Ready to give it a try? Head over to our store and grab one wallpaper to test it out.

Troubleshooting:

If the Depth Effect toggle doesn’t show up, try another image with a clearer subject or more separation from the background.

Depth Effect won’t work if you use widgets on your lock screen, as they interfere with the layering effect.

Take note: Depth Effect only works on iPhone models with an A12 Bionic or higher, meaning only iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR or later will be able to use it.

That’s it! Now you should have a lock screen with a cool Depth Effect showing parts of the image in front of the time.