Switching your iPhone to a 24-hour clock is a breeze. In just a few steps, you can say goodbye to the AM/PM format and hello to military time. After reading this quick guide, you’ll have your iPhone displaying the time in a 24-hour format in no time.
You can also watch this video about how to use the 24 hour clock on an iPhone for more information.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Use 24 Hour Clock on iPhone
Before we jump into the steps, let’s understand what we’re about to do. By following these steps, you’ll change the time display on your iPhone from the 12-hour format, which uses AM and PM, to a 24-hour format, commonly known as military time. This setting can be particularly useful if you work in an environment like healthcare or aviation, where the 24-hour clock is standard.
Step 1: Open the Settings App
Tap the ‘Settings’ app on your iPhone.
The ‘Settings’ app is your gateway to customizing your iPhone. It’s where you adjust your preferences to fit your needs.
Step 2: Go to General
Scroll down and tap on the ‘General’ option.
The ‘General’ settings include various options for managing your iPhone’s overall functionality.
Step 3: Tap on Date & Time
Find and select the ‘Date & Time’ option.
This is where you can control how your iPhone displays the date and time.
Step 4: Toggle on 24-Hour Time
Switch the toggle next to ’24-Hour Time’ to ON.
When the toggle is green, the 24-hour clock is activated on your device.
After completing these steps, your iPhone will immediately switch to the 24-hour format. Whether you’re checking the time on your lock screen, home screen, or within apps, you’ll see the new format everywhere the time is displayed.
Tips: Maximizing Your Use of 24 Hour Clock on iPhone
- If you travel internationally, the 24-hour clock can reduce confusion when dealing with different time zones.
- Some apps may still display time in a 12-hour format, depending on their individual settings.
- Remember to switch back to a 12-hour clock if you share your device with someone who prefers the AM/PM format.
- Use the 24-hour format to align with schedules that use military time, like public transportation timetables.
- Knowing how to switch between 12 and 24-hour time formats can be a useful skill, especially on devices that don’t make the change automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will alarms still work if I switch to a 24-hour clock?
Yes, your alarms will work as usual. Just remember to set them using the 24-hour format.
Can I use 24-hour time in other apps?
It depends on the app. Some apps use the iPhone’s default time settings, while others use their own format.
What happens if I switch time formats frequently?
Switching back and forth won’t cause any issues. Your iPhone will simply display the time in the format you’ve chosen.
Does the 24-hour clock affect how calendar events are displayed?
Yes, your calendar events will also be displayed in the 24-hour format.
Will Siri understand if I use 24-hour time when setting reminders?
Yes, Siri is programmed to understand both 12-hour and 24-hour time formats.
Summary
- Open the Settings App
- Go to General
- Tap on Date & Time
- Toggle on 24-Hour Time
Conclusion
In a world where time is of the essence, knowing how to manipulate the clock on your iPhone to suit your lifestyle is crucial. Whether you’re a night owl or an early bird, the 24-hour format can help keep you on schedule and in sync with the rest of the world that uses military time. Plus, it’s pretty handy when you’re trying to impress your friends with your worldly tech-savviness. While the 12-hour clock with its AM and PM might be deeply ingrained in our daily routines, the 24-hour clock is a simple switch that offers clarity—no more confusion over those pesky midday or midnight mix-ups. With this guide, we’ve walked you through the steps to make that switch on your iPhone with iOS 17, and added some tips and answered common questions to smooth out any wrinkles in the process. So go ahead, give the 24-hour clock a whirl and watch as your iPhone aligns with your unique pace of life. And hey, if you ever find yourself craving that old familiar AM/PM format, you know exactly how to use the 24-hour clock on iPhone to switch it back.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing technology how-to articles and tutorials for over a decade. He has extensive experience in information technology both in small business and as a consultant.
His articles have appeared on dozens of websites and been read millions of times.
He covers many different topics concerning technology, but focuses primarily on smartphones, consumer software, and consumer electronics.
You can read his full bio here.