iPhone 18 Pro Max delayed screen brightness when waking with Always-On Display enabled (iOS 27.0.1)

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Level 1

26 points

iPhone 18 Pro Max delayed screen brightness when waking with Always-On Display enabled (iOS 27.0.1)

I'm experiencing a very annoying display issue on my iPhone 18 Pro Max running iOS 27.0.1.

When I take the phone out of my pocket and use Raise to Wake, the display initially appears noticeably dim, then reaches its normal brightness shortly afterward. To be clear, this doesn't happen when the phone is NOT in my pocket, sitting on a table. Indoors, the delay is usually brief, around half a second to a second. Outdoors in bright sunlight, it's more noticeable and takes longer before the display reaches its expected brightness, up to 3 seconds! I've also occasionally noticed similar delayed dimming when locking the phone.

Testing performed:

The issue is easy to reproduce by putting the phone in the pocket and taking it out again. I've reproduced it five consecutive times.
It occurs even under ordinary indoor lighting, although bright outdoor conditions make it more noticeable.
My wife's iPhone 15 Pro, running the same iOS version, does not exhibit the issue.
Turning off Always-On Display appears to resolve the problem. After testing several times with it disabled, the issue returned when I enabled it again. This is not a solution of course.
I previously used an iPhone 17 Pro Max, including during the iOS 27 public beta, and never experienced this behavior.

This seems like a possible iOS 27 issue involving Always-On Display and the display's wake/sleep transition, potentially specific to the iPhone 18 Pro models.

Has anyone else with an iPhone 18 Pro or Pro Max experienced this? I would love to know if anyone can reproduce it by toggling Always-On Display off and on, or whether 27.2 (Beta) has fixed this?

iPhone 18 Pro Max, iOS 27

Posted on Oct 22, 2026 6:58 AM

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Answer 1

SravanKrA

Level 10

451,588 points

Oct 22, 2026 7:12 AM in response to drkpassengr

Expressing or conveying visual experiences effectively through these forums may be challenging. The underlying visual issue on your iPhone cannot be accurately diagnosed online. Factors such as your iPhone's specific settings, visual defects, and potential hardware problems cannot be assessed through this method. For more personalized and in-depth assistance, I recommend securing a Genius Bar Reservation and exploring the various support options provided by Apple.

Get a Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

When you encounter issues with your Apple devices, the Genius Bar at Apple Retail Stores is the go-to place for expert assistance. The Genius Bar is staffed by knowledgeable Apple employees, often referred to as "Geniuses," who can diagnose and resolve a wide range of hardware and software-related problems. To ensure personalized attention and a convenient visit, Apple provides the option to schedule a Genius Bar Reservation.

Contact Genius Bar.

Manage Reservations - My Reservations - Apple

Take your device to an Apple Retail Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider, or contact Apple Support:

If you prefer face-to-face assistance, you can visit an Apple Retail Store. Apple Retail Stores are designed to provide a hands-on experience with Apple products and offer support services. You can speak with Apple specialists, known as "Creative Pros" in some locations, who can assist you with product-related inquiries or minor troubleshooting.
In addition to Apple Retail Stores, there are Apple Authorize d Service Providers (AASPs) that are authorized to perform repairs on Apple products. AASPs are independent businesses certified by Apple to offer service and repairs for various Apple devices.
If visiting a physical location is not possible or convenient, you can seek support by contacting Apple Support. Apple offers various channels for support, including phone support, live chat, and email. The official Apple Support website provides information on how to reach out to Apple for assistance.

Finally, you can also start a repair log or track the status of existing repair --> Apple Repair and Repair Status Check - Official Apple Support

In summary, Apple provides customers with a range of support options, including the Genius Bar Reservation system, visits to Apple Retail Stores or Authorized Service Providers, and various channels to contact Apple Support for assistance with their products. These services aim to ensure that Apple users receive the necessary help and support whenever they encounter issues with their devices.

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