Notifications Get a Makeover in iOS 16

At the WWDC keynote on June 6, Apple announced revamped notifications for iOS 16 that will make it possible to see more information in your notifications without having to unlock your iPhone. Users have been grousing about the utility of notifications on the iPhone lagging behind that offered by certain Android phones, and Apple heard those concerns loud and clear.

The big news of the day is Live Activities: notifications that include things like score updates for the big game, a visual tracker for that rideshare you're waiting on, and more. This will let you stay on top of important notifications right from the Lock Screen, without having to navigate to an app to see your updates.

Notifications will now roll in from the bottom of the Lock screen rather than the top, saving room for those new customization options for the Lock screen also announced for iOS 16. Live Activities will also allow you to expand Now Playing to full-screen right from the Lock screen, so you can see full album art and expanded controls.

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Author Details

Elisabeth Garry's picture

Author Details

Elisabeth Garry

Elisabeth Garry is an Associate Editor for iPhone Life. Formerly of Gartner and Software Advice, they have six years of experience writing about technology for everyday users, specializing in iPhones, HomePods, and Apple TV. As a former college writing instructor, they are passionate about effective, accessible communication, which is perhaps why they love helping readers master the strongest communication tools they have available: their iPhones. They have a degree in Russian Literature and Language from Reed College.

When they’re not writing for iPhone Life, they’re reading about maritime disasters, writing fiction, rock climbing, or walking their adorable dog, Moosh.