How to Use Your iPhone's New Bedtime Mode for Better Sleep

The benefits of healthy sleep

Getting enough good quality sleep is vital for both our physical and mental health. When we sleep well, we wake up feeling refreshed, focused, and ready to take on the day. Quality sleep improves learning, problem solving skills, and emotional wellbeing.

How the iPhone can disrupt sleep

The blue light emitted from our phones and devices can negatively impact our circadian rhythms and melatonin production, making it harder to fall and stay asleep. Using phones before bed stimulates our brains, preventing that natural transition into deep rest.

Introducing iPhone Bedtime mode

The latest iPhone software now includes a dedicated “Bedtime mode” to help users get better sleep. This mode changes the screen to greyscale and reduces blue light, supporting natural melatonin release.

Customizing Bedtime mode to your needs

You can customize Bedtime mode to fit your own sleep schedule. Set the time you want to go to bed and wake up, and your iPhone will automatically switch on Sleep Mode during your set sleeping hours. You can also choose whether to silence calls and notifications while in Bedtime mode.

Why use iPhone Bedtime mode?

Research shows that avoiding blue light exposure before bed can help you fall asleep faster and enjoy higher quality rest. Bedtime mode minimizes sleep disruption from your iPhone without having to put your device away entirely.

Other sleep tips

While Bedtime mode can help, there are other positive changes you can make to promote healthy sleep hygiene:

Establish a consistent pre-bedtime routine to prepare your mind and body
Make sure your bedroom is cool, comfortable and quiet
Write down worries or to-do’s so they don’t keep you awake
Limit stimulating activity and screen time before bed
Consider brief mindfulness or meditation practices to calm your mind

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I turn on iPhone Bedtime mode?

Open the Clock app > Tap the Bedtime tab > Toggle on Sleep Mode > Customize your sleep schedule and preferences.

Can I schedule different Bedtime modes?

Yes! You can make multiple Bedtime schedules for different days of the week, like separate settings for weeknights versus weekends.

Will Bedtime mode mute calls and notifications?

You have the option when customizing your schedule. Tap “Silence” on or off to choose whether to automatically mute calls and alerts while in Sleep Mode.

What happens if I wake up early?

Bedtime mode will automatically turn off at your set wake up time. But if you wake earlier, you can always manually turn Sleep Mode off in Control Center or the Clock app.

Can I use Bedtime mode on my iPad too?

Absolutely. Bedtime works across iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch and Apple TV using your Apple ID account settings.