The new 3D (Spatial) Wallpaper feature in iOS 26 lets you bring your Lock Screen to life by adding depth and parallax movement to your photos. When you tilt or move your iPhone, elements in the wallpaper subtly shift, creating a layered 3D illusion. It’s visually stunning — and setting it up only takes a few steps.
Here’s a simple, practical walkthrough to enable this feature.
Step 1: Choose a Suitable Wallpaper
Not every photo will support the 3D (Spatial) effect — it works best with images that have clear depth, like portraits, objects in the foreground, or landscapes.
- Long-press on your Lock Screen until it enters customization mode.
- Tap the “+” (Add New) button to create a new wallpaper.
- Select Photos from your gallery.
- Pick a photo that has visible depth or distinct subjects.
Step 2: Enable the 3D (Spatial) Effect
Once you select your photo, you’ll see a small “3D” or “Spatial” toggle appear at the bottom of the screen (if the photo supports it).
- Tap on the three-dot (…) menu or “Effects” button.
- Turn on “3D / Spatial” or “Depth Effect.”
- You’ll notice the subject slightly pops out from the background in preview.
Note: If you don’t see the toggle, that photo might not be compatible with the 3D effect. Try another image with clear subject-background separation.
Step 3: Set and Apply the Wallpaper
After enabling the effect:
- Tap “Add” in the top-right corner.
- Choose Set as Wallpaper Pair to apply it to both Lock and Home Screens (or just Lock Screen).
- Lock your iPhone and move it slightly — the subject should now float above the background with a dynamic parallax effect.
Pro Tips
- The 3D Spatial effect works only when Perspective Zoom is enabled.
- It may not appear if Low Power Mode or Reduce Motion is turned on.
- Works best on newer iPhone models with a iPhone 13 or later camera.
