If you prefer 24-hour format over the standard 12-hour AM/PM clock, your iPhone 13 allows you to switch to military time quickly. Military time is commonly used in professional, medical, and international settings because it eliminates confusion between AM and PM.
This guide will show you how to change your iPhone 13 to military time, why it’s useful, and tips to customize your time settings for convenience.
Why Switch to Military Time?
-
Avoid confusion: 24-hour format removes AM/PM ambiguity.
-
Professional environments: Many workplaces, hospitals, and military organizations use 24-hour time.
-
Global travel: International flights, schedules, and timetables often use military time.
-
Personal preference: Some people find it easier to read and track time.
Step-by-Step Guide: Enable Military Time on iPhone 13
Step 1: Open Settings
Unlock your iPhone 13 and tap the Settings app.
Step 2: Scroll and Tap “General”
The General menu contains all basic iPhone settings.
Step 3: Tap “Date & Time”
This section lets you adjust your time format, time zone, and more.
Step 4: Enable 24-Hour Time
-
You will see a toggle labeled 24-Hour Time.
-
Slide the toggle ON.
Your iPhone clock will now display military time across the system, including the lock screen, status bar, and calendar events.
Optional: Adjust Time Zone
For accuracy, make sure your Time Zone is correct:
-
In Settings → General → Date & Time, check Time Zone.
-
Enable Set Automatically if you want your iPhone to adjust time when traveling.
Military time will automatically follow the correct time zone.
Tips for Using Military Time on iPhone 13
-
Lock Screen & Status Bar: All system clocks will now use 24-hour format.
-
Calendar & Reminders: Events and alarms will show in military time.
-
Widgets: Time widgets also reflect the 24-hour setting.
-
Third-party Apps: Most apps follow the system setting, but some may need manual adjustment.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I switch back to 12-hour format?
Yes. Simply go to Settings → General → Date & Time and toggle 24-Hour Time OFF.
2. Will alarms still work?
Yes. Alarms will function normally, but times will display in 24-hour format.
3. Does military time affect world clock?
Yes. All clocks, including the World Clock, will show times in 24-hour format.
4. Is military time available in all iOS versions?
Yes. The iPhone 13 supports 24-hour time in all iOS versions.
Final Thoughts
Switching your iPhone 13 to military time is simple, practical, and useful for both personal and professional life. Whether you want to reduce confusion, follow workplace standards, or just prefer a 24-hour clock, the toggle in Settings → General → Date & Time makes the change instant and system-wide.
Your alarms, calendar events, and system clocks will all follow the new format, helping you stay organized and punctual throughout the day.