Fix iPhone Time Issues: Master Date & Time Settings 2025

Is your iPhone showing the wrong time, or is your Screen Time feature suddenly broken? Don’t panic! Time-related issues on iPhones are common, but they’re usually easy to fix.

Whether your lock screen clock looks faded, your time zone won’t update, or your Screen Time stats have disappeared, this guide will walk you through simple solutions. We’ll explain each step in plain language—no tech jargon required!

For more tips on customizing your device, check out our ultimate guide to iPhone settings, which covers everything from privacy to personalization.

1. Fix Screen Time Not Working

Problem: Screen Time isn’t tracking app usage, or the option is missing entirely.

Solutions:

A. Turn On App & Website Activity

1. Open Settings > Screen Time.
2. Tap App & Website Activity.
3. Toggle it ON if it’s off.

Why this works: Screen Time needs this setting enabled to monitor your usage.

B. Reset Content & Privacy Restrictions

1. Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions.
2. Toggle it OFF, wait 10 seconds, then toggle it ON again.

C. Force Restart Your iPhone

1. Quickly press and release the Volume Up button.
2. Quickly press and release the Volume Down button.
3. Hold the Side Button until the Apple logo appears (about 10 seconds).

D. Check Date & Time Settings
Incorrect date/time can break Screen Time. Go to Settings > General > Date & Time and enable Set Automatically.

E. Reset All Settings
Warning: This resets Wi-Fi passwords and preferences but won’t delete photos or apps.

1. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset All Settings.
2. Enter your passcode to confirm.

Still not working? Update your iPhone’s software under Settings > General > Software Update.

2. Fix Automatic Time Zone Not Updating

Problem: Your iPhone’s time zone is stuck or keeps spinning.

Solutions:

A. Refresh Network Connections

1. Swipe down from the top-right corner to open Control Center.
2. Tap the Airplane Mode icon to turn it on, wait 5 seconds, then turn it off.

B. Enable Location Services
Your iPhone uses your location to detect time zones.

1. Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services.
2. Toggle Location Services ON.
3. Scroll down, tap System Services, and enable Setting Time Zone.

For a deeper dive into how location settings affect your iPhone’s features, read our detailed explainer.

C. Force Restart (See Section 1C)

D. Reset Location & Privacy Settings

1. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset.
2. Tap Reset Location & Privacy.

E. Check Cellular/Wi-Fi
Ensure you’re connected to Wi-Fi or cellular data. Time zones require an internet connection.

3. Correct Incorrect Date or Time

Problem: Your iPhone shows the wrong date or time.

Solutions:

A. Enable Automatic Date & Time

1. Go to Settings > General > Date & Time.
2. Toggle Set Automatically ON.

B. Manually Adjust Time Zone
If “Set Automatically” is off:

1. Tap Time Zone and enter your city.
2. Double-check the date and time below.

C. Restart Your iPhone
Hold the Side Button + Volume Up/Down > Slide to power off.

D. Update iOS
Outdated software can cause bugs. Go to Settings > General > Software Update to install the latest version.

For more help with updates or storage issues, visit our guide to iPhone General Settings.

4. Fix Dim or Faded Lock Screen Time

Problem: The clock on your lock screen is hard to see.

Solutions:

A. Force Restart (See Section 1C)

B. Adjust Lock Screen Customization

1. Press and hold your lock screen.
2. Tap Customize > Lock Screen.
3. Tap the time widget and choose a brighter color (e.g., white).

C. Disable Dark Mode Temporarily

1. Go to Settings > Display & Brightness.
2. Select Light mode.

D. Reset All Settings (See Section 1E)

5. General Troubleshooting Tips

1. Restart First: Fixes most minor glitches.
2. Check Battery: Time zone updates require >20% charge.
3. Wi-Fi/Cellular: Always ensure a stable connection.
4. Avoid Extreme Heat: iPhones may malfunction if overheated.

FAQ: Fix iPhone Time Issues

1. Why does Screen Time need my location to work?

Screen Time itself doesn’t track your location, but it relies on your iPhone’s correct date and time settings to monitor app usage. If your time zone is wrong (due to location settings being off), Screen Time may not function properly. Ensure Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services > System Services > Setting Time Zone is turned on for automatic updates.

2. Will resetting all settings delete my photos or apps?

No! Resetting all settings (Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone) only erases preferences like Wi-Fi passwords, wallpaper, and notification setups. Your photos, apps, and personal data stay safe.

3. Why does my iPhone show the wrong time even after turning on “Set Automatically”?

This usually happens if:

• Your iPhone isn’t connected to Wi-Fi or cellular data.
• Location Services are disabled (needed for time zone detection).
• Your device is in Airplane Mode.
  Check these settings and restart your iPhone if the issue persists.

4. Can I use Screen Time without enabling “App & Website Activity”?

No. Screen Time requires App & Website Activity to track how you use apps and websites. If this setting is off, Screen Time won’t record data or show usage limits.

5. Why is my lock screen time still dim after customizing it?

If the time widget remains faded:

• Disable Dark Mode temporarily (Settings > Display & Brightness > Light).
• Ensure your lock screen wallpaper isn’t too dark or clashing with the text color.
• Force restart your iPhone (see Section 1C in the main guide).

Conclusion

Fixing iPhone time issues is all about checking the right settings and giving your device a quick refresh. Most problems, like incorrect dates or Screen Time glitches, can be solved in minutes using the steps above.

If you’re still stuck, visit Apple’s Support page or explore our Ultimate iPhone Settings Guide for more tips. Remember, keeping your iPhone updated ensures it runs smoothly and avoids bugs!