In the evolving world of smartphones, personalization is more than just changing wallpapers or ringtones. One trend that’s sweeping through 2025 is the “screen edge lighting” feature — a dynamic and stylish way to make your phone’s display come alive, especially during calls, messages, or notifications. Whether you’re an Android user or an iPhone enthusiast, this blog post will walk you through the latest ways to set mobile screen sides light in 2025.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know, from system settings to third-party apps, and even hidden features.
What Is Screen Side Lighting on Mobile?
Screen side lighting (or edge lighting) is a visual effect where the edges of your phone’s display light up or glow when you receive a notification, call, or interact with the device. This feature adds a modern, futuristic flair and is especially popular among users who enjoy vibrant UI customizations.
In 2025, many manufacturers are integrating this natively into their devices, while others still rely on apps to enable the effect.
Why Use Edge Lighting in 2025?
Here are some compelling reasons why users are setting up screen edge lighting in 2025:
- ✅ Improved Visibility: Notifications are easier to spot even when your phone is face down.
- 🌈 Aesthetic Appeal: Makes your device look unique and stylish.
- 🔕 Silent Notifications: Great for silent mode — the light catches your eye without needing a sound alert.
- 🔋 Energy Efficient: Uses minimal battery compared to always-on display or vibrations.
How to Enable Screen Side Lighting on Android (2025 Methods)
Most Android phones today, especially from Samsung, Xiaomi, Vivo, Oppo, and OnePlus, come with built-in edge lighting features.
### 1. Using Native Phone Settings (No App Needed)
If your device supports it natively, follow these steps:
Samsung Galaxy Phones (One UI 6 & Above)
- Go to Settings.
- Tap on Notifications.
- Select Brief Pop-up Settings.
- Tap Edge Lighting Style.
- Choose your preferred effect, color, and transparency.
- Tap Done to apply.
Tip: You can customize different apps to trigger different colors!
Vivo, Oppo, Realme Devices
- Open Settings.
- Navigate to Display & Brightness or Notifications & Status Bar.
- Look for Edge Lighting or Screen Light Effects.
- Toggle it ON and customize your colors.
How to Set Side Lighting on iPhones in 2025
While iPhones traditionally don’t support side lighting, the latest iOS 18 update in 2025 has introduced more accessibility-based visual notification features.
### 2. Using Flash and Focus Assistive Notifications
- Go to Settings.
- Tap Accessibility > Audio/Visual.
- Toggle on LED Flash for Alerts.
- Enable Flash on Silent if desired.
Although it’s not exactly side lighting, paired with transparent cases, it gives a similar stylish effect. For iPhones, you’ll need apps to simulate edge lighting visually on the screen.
Best Third-Party Apps to Add Edge Lighting in 2025
If your phone doesn’t support edge lighting natively, there are reliable apps on the Play Store and App Store that simulate this feature. These apps have been updated for 2025 with smoother animations, better compatibility, and improved battery usage.
3. Top Android Apps for Screen Sides Light
| App Name | Features | Rating (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Edge Lighting Colors | Custom animation, multi-color waves, per app notification settings | ⭐ 4.6 |
| Always on Edge | Edge glow, music lighting, customizable size & shape | ⭐ 4.5 |
| True Edge | Battery-friendly, AMOLED optimized | ⭐ 4.7 |
| NotifyBuddy | LED-style edge light for notifications | ⭐ 4.4 |
How to Use (Example: Always on Edge)
- Download from Play Store.
- Grant necessary permissions (draw over apps, notifications).
- Customize glow style, thickness, speed, and app triggers.
- Save and test by sending yourself a message or call.
4. Top iPhone Apps for Screen Lighting Effects
iPhones require more creative workarounds, but these apps help:
- Edge Lighting iOS – Simulates edge lighting via wallpaper overlays.
- Color Glow Notifications – Adds glow animations when notifications arrive.
- Edge Screen – Light Alerts – Perfect for simulating Samsung-style edge glow.
These apps use accessibility features and background overlays to simulate the visual effect.
Create a Custom Screen Edge Light (DIY Method)
Feeling creative? You can even make your own custom edge lighting effect with live wallpapers or video overlays.
5. Use KLWP Live Wallpaper Maker (Android Only)
- Install KLWP and KLWP Pro.
- Choose a template or start from scratch.
- Design a live wallpaper with glowing sides.
- Set as your wallpaper.
This method consumes slightly more battery but gives full design control over the visuals.
Tips to Optimize Battery While Using Edge Lighting
While screen lighting looks amazing, improper use can affect your phone’s battery life. Here’s how to balance looks with performance:
- 🔋 Set shorter duration for light effects (3-5 seconds is enough).
- 🌘 Use darker colors or lower brightness on AMOLED screens.
- 🛠️ Disable for less important apps like games or non-critical alerts.
- ⏱️ Schedule active hours so lighting effects only work at specific times (e.g., daytime only).
Troubleshooting: Edge Lighting Not Working?
Here are a few things to check if your side lighting isn’t showing up:
- Permissions Not Granted: Most third-party apps need “Draw Over Other Apps” and Notification Access.
- Battery Saver Mode: Edge lighting is disabled automatically when your phone is in power-saving mode.
- Do Not Disturb: DND settings can block visual notifications.
- App Conflicts: Multiple apps trying to manage notifications might cause issues.
Try restarting your phone after configuring the settings or reinstall the app if needed.
What’s New in Edge Lighting for 2025?
Here are some exciting new updates in edge lighting technology for the year:
- 🌀 AI-Triggered Effects: Lights react differently based on the type of message (e.g., urgent emails = red, personal messages = green).
- 🔊 Music Sync Lighting: Sides flash to the rhythm of your music playlist.
- 💬 Emoji-Reactive Colors: Light colors change based on emojis used in messages.
- 📷 Camera-Edge Sync: During selfies, edge lights act as flash-fill for better lighting.
Conclusion: Light Up Your Phone with Style in 2025
Whether for aesthetic appeal or improved notification visibility, setting up screen side lighting in 2025 is a must-have customization feature. With support from native OS features, powerful apps, and new innovation trends, it’s easier than ever to add a personal touch to your device. Whether you’re on Android or iOS, a tech lover or just someone who enjoys a touch of flair, edge lighting is a brilliant way to make your phone stand out.
