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Remember when your iPhone wallpaper was just a static image? We all do. For years, our home and lock screens have been a little...flat. But with the release of iOS 26, that's all about to change. Apple’s new features like the 3D depth effect and dynamic wallpapers are making screens feel alive, but creating a truly unique one can seem complicated.
Don't worry, it's not. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step. You'll learn how to transform your favorite images into stunning 3D wallpapers that pop and even how to make them move with an animated wallpaper effect, all for free. Let's get started and give your iPhone the personality it deserves.
How to Set Up 3D Spatial Wallpapers on iPhone
With iOS 26, Apple introduced a "Spatial" or "3D" effect that makes your wallpaper subject float above the background. This is a game-changer for your Lock Screen.
Here’s the simple process:
- Long-press on your Lock Screen until the customization menu appears.
- Tap the + (Add New) button.
- Choose Photos from your gallery.
- Select a picture with a clear subject and background. When you select it, an icon with three-dots will appear. Tap it and turn on Depth Effect.
- Move your phone to preview the effect. Your subject should appear to float in a 3D space.
- Tap Add and choose Set as Wallpaper Pair or Customize Home Screen.
While this native feature is cool, it doesn't work for every photo. If you want more control, the next section is for you.
How to Generate the iOS 26 3D Depth Effect Wallpaper for iPhone
Want to create a custom wallpaper that truly stands out? You don’t need to be a designer. With an AI art generator, you can create a perfect 3D depth effect wallpaper from scratch. We recommend using an app like YouCam AI Pro.
Here’s how to do it in five easy steps:
Step 1: Download the Best iOS 26 Wallpaper Generator: YouCam AI Pro
Shared Materials by Strapi
*Adjust the size of images ONLY. Please go to Strapi to edit the materials info.
Find it on the App Store or Google Play and install it on your device.
Step 2: Head to Text-to-Image Feature under AI Image
Open the app and navigate to the AI Image section. From there, select the Text-to-Image feature.
Step 3: Write Your Prompt for iOS 26 Wallpaper
This is where your creativity comes in. Write a detailed description of the wallpaper you want. To get the best results, remember to include key details like the subject, background, and style. For a good 3D wallpaper effect, try a prompt with a clear foreground and background.
- Example prompts:
- "a cute cat wearing a spacesuit, floating in a detailed space scene"
- "a beautiful glowing flower with a fantasy forest background"
- "a futuristic car speeding down a rainy neon street"
Step 4: Select Style for iOS 26 Wallpaper
YouCam AI Pro offers a variety of styles. Select a style that will make your image look incredible.
Step 5: Generate & Save the iOS 26 Wallpaper
Tap "Generate" and watch the magic happen. Once the image is ready, you can save it to your phone and set it as your new wallpaper.
Free iOS 26 Wallpapers
FREE in app
How to Do the iOS 26 3D Animated wallpaper for iPhone
Once you’ve created a stunning image, why not bring it to life? You can turn any static image into a dynamic, animated wallpaper with YouCam AI Pro's video feature.
Here’s how you can make a 3D animated wallpaper:
Step 1: Head to Image to Video under AI Video Section
In the YouCam AI Pro app, go to the AI Video section and select Image to Video.
Step 2: Upload Your iOS 26 wallpaper
Choose the image you just created or any other image from your camera roll.
Step 3: Select a Template or Enter Prompts
The app has a variety of animation templates to choose from, or you can describe the type of motion you want using a prompt. For a 3D animated wallpaper effect, try a prompt like "3D movement" or "zoom in."
Step 4: Tap "Generate" to Get the iOS 26 3D Animated wallpaper
The app will process your image and turn it into a captivating video that you can set as your live wallpaper.
Pro Tips: Customize iOS 26 wallpaper with YouCam Perfect
Shared Materials by Strapi
*Adjust the size of images ONLY. Please go to Strapi to edit the materials info.
YouCam AI Pro and its sister app, YouCam Perfect, offer even more tools to customize your iOS 26 wallpaper and make it perfect.
Remove & Replace Background
If your generated image has an unwanted background element, use this feature to get a clean, polished look.
Blur Background To Highlight Your Subject
Create a professional depth-of-field effect to make your subject pop.
Extend Images for a Balanced 3D Wallpaper
If your image isn’t the right size, this feature can intelligently expand the borders to fit your screen perfectly, ensuring your depth effect wallpaper looks flawless.
Unlock Free iOS 26 Wallpapers with the Best iOS Wallpaper Generator
Your iPhone is a reflection of you, so why settle for a basic wallpaper? With the right tools, it's never been easier to create a unique iOS 26 wallpaper that perfectly matches your style. Now that you know how to get the most out of your iPhone’s new features, it’s time to start creating something amazing.
Ready to start designing your own? Download YouCam AI Pro and bring your wallpaper dreams to life.
iOS 26 wallpaper FAQs
Will iOS 26 have new wallpapers?
Yes! iOS 26 includes a brand-new set of default wallpapers that feature a dynamic, glass-like design.
How to make wallpaper 3D iOS 26?
The easiest way is to use the native Depth Effect on a photo with a clear subject, or use an AI tool like YouCam AI Pro to generate a custom image designed for a 3D depth effect wallpaper.
Can you turn off liquid glass on iOS 26?
While the "Liquid Glass" design is a core part of the new iOS 26 interface, you can adjust some settings to make it less prominent, such as by changing your wallpaper or using a dark-mode theme.
How to get the new iOS wallpaper?
The new wallpapers are included with the iOS 26 update. You can also download them online, or even create your own with an AI tool for a truly personal look.
