In autumn 2020, Apple took the internet – and Pinterest – by storm when they introduced the ability for users to completely transform their iOS app icons and home screens. Fast forward two years, and Apple has treated us once again, this time with a fully customisable lock screen.
With iOS 18, users can personalise their lock screens like never before, with options for unique font styles, colour palettes, and widgets designed to complement their wallpaper perfectly.
With so many new ways to customise, it can be hard to know where to begin – but you’re in the right place. From anime-inspired designs to minimalist themes, we’ve gathered dozens of aesthetic iOS lock screen ideas to inspire your next iPhone makeover. Let’s dive in.
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Aesthetic Lock Screen Ideas
With iOS 18, creating your perfect lock screen has never been simpler. To help you get started, we’ve curated a collection of creative designs – explore and find the look that’s right for you.
You can preview each wallpaper below. Simply tap the download button beneath the image to get the high-quality version. Trust us, you’ll want to see just how stunning they truly are.
Black & Dark Lock Screen
These confidently black and dark aesthetic wallpapers for iPhone are perfect for creating the ultimate minimalist lock screen background.
Quote Lock Screen
What better way to personalise your lock screen than by adding your favourite words to live by? Whether you prefer motivational sayings, self-care affirmations, witty quotes, or anything in between, making a quote wallpaper the focal point of your lock screen is a quick and effortless way to make your phone truly your own.
3D Foreground Lock Screen with Depth Effect
One of the standout features of iOS 18’s lock screen update is the new Depth Effect. Using advanced AI algorithms, iOS automatically isolates the subject in your images and separates it from the background, seamlessly blending the clock into your wallpaper without the need for Photoshop. For the best results, choose an image with a clear, well-defined subject and a background that isn’t too busy, then let iOS work its magic.
Textured Wallpaper Lock Screen
Whether you’re aiming for a luxurious marble finish or a captivating abstract paint design, adding a textured background is a simple yet effective way to start creating your perfect aesthetic lock screen.
Abstract Lock Screen
Marble Lock Screen
3D Conceptual & Rendered Lock Screen
Travel & Wanderlust Lock Screen
Changing your current location isn’t always possible, but changing your lock screen certainly is. If you’re missing your favourite place, you can feel a little closer to it by customising your lock screen with iOS 18’s new features.
Set a wallpaper of your beloved destination and even add a Clock app widget showing the local time to satisfy your wanderlust until you can travel there again. Already have a trip planned? Include widgets from the Calendar and Weather apps to stay perfectly prepared for your journey.
Gradient & Aura Lock Screen
Gradients add a stylish touch to any setting – the perfect blend of modernity and colour without unnecessary clutter. Instantly elevate your lock screen’s aesthetic with a beautiful gradient theme.
Retro & Vintage Lock Screen
Just because you have the latest iOS doesn’t mean you can’t embrace a little nostalgia. Choose a retro-inspired wallpaper, set the pre-installed block serif font, opt for a muted accent colour, and you’ll have a timeless lock screen theme.
Anime-Themed Lock Screen
Some of the most visually stunning home screens we saw with iOS 14 featured breathtaking anime scenery and frames. From Dandadan to Attack on Titan and beyond, you can now bring anime classics to your lock screen, complete with customised fonts and colours that blend seamlessly into the scene.
Landscapes & Nature Lock Screen
Are you an outdoor enthusiast or a nature lover? Whether it’s an aerial shot of the shoreline or a breathtaking view of cherry blossom, create the perfect nature-themed lock screen by pairing your favourite vistas with fonts and colours that complement the scene.
Want to take it a step further? Add weather widgets to your lock screen, such as precipitation and sunrise and sunset times, to help you prepare for your next outdoor adventure.
Minimalist Lock Screen
Keep your lock screen stylish with a minimalist theme. Whether you choose a plant motif or a tranquil image for your wallpaper, add a contrasting colour for the clock and widgets, and you’re good to go. To preserve the clean look, we suggest using no more than one widget.
Music & Artist Lock Screen
Have we missed any other aesthetic iOS lock screen ideas? What themes would you like us to feature next? Share your suggestions in the comments below!