The fifth beta version of iOS 16 will have a feature that is sought-after by iPhone users but has not been provided up until now. The previous models have been missing the battery percentage display in the status bar at the top of the screen.
The notched display in the iPhone X which was launched in 2017, hardly left any space for the battery status indicator. So, Apple instead buried it in the notifications shade, which you swipe down to access. It’s remained hidden there ever since, except on iPhones that have a home button.
With the latest beta version of Apple’s iOS 16, the battery percentage is written as a number inside the battery icon, leaving enough space for cell signal information and Wi-Fi status. And it means you can see your exact percentage without having to swipe down the screen. It could also be useful if Apple adds an always-on display to its next iPhone since you’d be able to check your battery status without touching your phone.
An Apple representative didn’t immediately say whether the battery percentage will make it to the final cut of iOS 16. The update is currently only available as a developer and public beta. The new iPhone software will launch this fall, likely in September when Apple’s expected to announce the iPhone 14.
You need the latest iOS 16 developer beta installed to show the battery percentage, but it should appear in the public preview soon. To turn it on, open Settings, navigate to Battery and toggle the Battery Percentage option so that it’s on.
