iPhone lock screen wallpaper disappeared in iOS 16? 7 fixes

iOS 16 has taken customization to the next level, especially with the update to the lock screen. But many users have reported that the background of their iPhone automatically changes to a black background. If you are also facing the problem, don’t worry! I will share easy solutions to fix iPhone lock screen wallpaper disappearing problem.

Why did the wallpaper on my iPhone turn black?

Many users have reported that the iPhone wallpaper turns black or disappears when they unlock it. It may show up immediately after a reboot and automatically changes after using your iPhone for some time. There are several reasons why your iPhone lock screen wallpaper may have disappeared:

1. Software updates. Sometimes software update bugs can cause your iPhone wallpaper to turn black.
2. Settings changes: Accidentally changing wallpaper settings can cause your lock screen wallpaper to disappear.
3. Third Party Applications. Third-party wallpaper or widget apps installed on your iPhone may be causing issues with your wallpaper.
4. Storage space: If your iPhone doesn’t have enough storage space, it can affect your iPhone’s lock screen wallpaper.
5. Image corruption: The image file used as the lock screen wallpaper may have been corrupted, causing it to disappear.
6. Wrong wallpaper transfer: iOS 16 uses a pairing code for wallpapers. Therefore, you should pair your customized home screen wallpaper with your lock screen. If you only set one wallpaper and transfer your old wallpaper to a new pair, it may not set up correctly. As a result of the inability to transfer the pairing code, the wallpaper turns black.

7 Ways to Fix iPhone Lock Screen Wallpaper Disappearing Issue in iOS 16

If you encounter the above issue, you can apply these troubleshooting methods one by one.

1. Restart your iPhone

But if the problem is more complex, your wallpaper will disappear again when it goes to sleep. So, you might have to try the other fixes mentioned below.

2. Update iOS

3. Set new wallpaper

Sometimes the problem can be related to the image itself. Try installing a different wallpaper to see if the problem persists. You can also restore the wallpaper to default settings.

1. Press and hold the lock screen.
2. Choose the plus sign.
3. Now choose a new wallpaper from your library or your photo gallery.
4. Click “Add”and confirm “Set as wallpaper pair”.
5. Check if the problem persists.

4. Change your wallpaper settings

If you change an existing pair of Home and Lock Screen wallpapers, or add too many widgets, they can all conflict and create crashes. As a result, you may see the iPhone lock screen wallpaper disappear. So, remove all widgets and set up your lock screen from scratch. Also remove unwanted wallpapers and widgets.

5. Restart your iPhone

6. Turn off the always-on display.

7. Reset Focus Mode Pairs

Focus mode allows you to filter features and access only selected apps. It is also associated with customized home screen and lock screen wallpapers according to your Focus filter. This way your wallpaper will change whenever you turn on focus mode. You may get a black screen if you don’t set a filter wallpaper.

So that’s all for today, friends!

If your iPhone wallpaper has disappeared, there is no need to panic. Following these simple methods can solve the problem in no time. I suggest using local photos rather than iCloud images so your iPhone can easily access and get the wallpaper. If the issue persists, your best bet is to take your iPhone to an Apple Store or contact Apple Support for further assistance.