I turned my Android phone into the perfect bedside clock - here's how

Source: ZDNet

ZDNET’s key takeaways

• No more guessing the time when in bed.
• No more startling alarms.
• Android has plenty of features to improve your bedtime mode.

Because my vision isn’t what it once was, I can’t count on my Pixel watch to keep me informed of the time while I’m supposed to be sleeping. Although I don’t wake up to an alarm (I still wake up around 6 am every day), I still like to know the time. After all, I don’t want to constantly guess how much sleep I have left to enjoy.

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I haven’t owned an alarm clock in decades. Like so many people, I use my phone instead. Recent updates to Android make that proposition even more appealing. Not only does it offer a digital or analog clock, but it also allows you to customize it to perfectly meet your needs.

I want to share how I’ve configured my Pixel 9 Pro to serve as the perfect bedside clock. So hit that snooze button, and let’s make some changes.

How to turn your Android phone into a bedside clock

What you’ll need: A phone running the latest available version of Android (and you’ll need to be awake).

1. Enable the screen saver
   Open Settings → Display & touch → Screen saver and make sure it’s turned on.

How to customize your clock

1. Change the “When to show” setting

• Tap When to show and choose the option that fits your routine.
  • If you use a wireless charging stand, select When upright and charging and enable Restrict to wireless charging.
  • If you plug the phone in flat, select While charging.

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2. Enable low‑light mode (optional)

• Scroll to the bottom of the Screen saver page and toggle Low light mode on. This makes the clock appear only when the lights are out, giving a more “official bedtime” feel.

3. Choose and customize a screen‑saver style

Four options are available:

• Everyday clock – digital clock
• Google Photos – displays selected photos
• Home Controls – shows controls for Google Home devices
• Pilot Bold Clock – analog clock

If you pick Everyday clock, tap Customize to select:

• Date/Weather layout (three choices)
• Theme: Auto, Dark, or Light

Test both dark and light themes with the lights off to see which you prefer.

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Other tweaks to improve your bedside clock

• Sleep sounds: See “Android has a hidden feature to help you sleep better” for details.
• Set your bedtime: Follow the guide on setting up a bedtime schedule.
• Dismiss alarm with tap: In Clock → Bedtime → Settings (three‑dot menu), choose Tap or Swipe and decide whether the action stops or snoozes the alarm.
• Gradual volume increase: Also in Clock → Bedtime → Settings, enable the gradual increase (0 – 60 seconds) to avoid startling wakes.

After applying these settings, your Android phone should function as the perfect bedside clock, helping you sleep better and wake up refreshed.