Why won't my Android phone keep the correct time? We'll help you fix it.

Most of us depend on our phones to keep track of time. Whether you need to set an alarm, timer, or just want to have a look and see what time it is, our phone has become the de facto watch of the 21st century. As such, it's that much more annoying when the time on your Android phone gets messed up. If your device is showing the incorrect time, here are a few tips on how to fix the time on your Android phone to help get your life back on schedule.

The following screenshots and steps were done on Android 12, but can be followed on Android 11. Some UI elements might look different depending on the phone you have, but the core flow of everything is mostly the same. Unfortunately, Samsung phones don't have the option to change time zones.

How to manually set your phone's time

By default, your phone picks up the time automatically based on its cellular/Wi-Fi connection. This usually works perfectly fine, but it is possible to trip it up now and then for many reasons.

Should that happen, it's straightforward to turn this automatic detection off and just set the time manually.

1. Open the Settings on your phone.
2. Scroll down and tap System.

3. Tap Date & time.

   

4. Tap the toggle next to Set time automatically to disable the automatic time.
5. Tap Time and set it to the correct time.

6. Tap OK.

   

How to fix your phone's automatic time detection

Setting the time manually might be the best solution for some people, but when it comes time to deal with Daylight Savings, you'll have yet another clock to adjust. Automatic time is just more convenient, and if you want to keep it that way, here's a quick fix that's worth trying.

1. Open the Settings on your phone.
2. Scroll down and tap System.

3. Tap Date & time.

   

4. Tap the toggle next to Set time automatically to disable the automatic time.
5. Tap that same toggle again to re-enable it.

Do you know how the joke about turning your computer off and on again to fix all of your problems? That's basically what we're doing here. Your Android phone's automatic time detection is usually spot-on, but should it happen to goof, resetting it like this may be all you need to do.

How to change your time zone

If you're someone that does a lot of traveling or happens to live near the edge of a time zone, this might also cause issues with the time on your Android phone. Time zones are interesting beasts, but just like time itself, adjusting these on your phone can be done with just a few taps. However, Samsung owners should note that they don't have the option to change their time zone.

1. Open the Settings on your phone.
2. Scroll down and tap System.

3. Tap Date & time.

   

4. Tap the toggle next to Set time zone automatically.

5. Select your preferred time zone.

   

When the Set time zone automatically toggle is enabled, your phone should automatically switch to new time zones on its own without you having to lift a finger. If this doesn't work for whatever reason, the above steps are a quick and easy way to get things straightened out on your own.

Also, if you don't want to manually change the time zone every time you enter a new one, try disabling and re-enabling that toggle to reset its automatic detection.

Fix your phone's time today

Even though watches have evolved to become smart, one of the basic uses of our Android phones is still as a timekeeper. You might have the best Android smartwatch, but we'll bet anything you still check your phone to tell the time at least once or twice a day. So to stay on top of things and maintain punctuality when following your schedule, make sure you've fixed your phone's time to match the correct one.

If you don't already own a dedicated device just for tracking time, we'd suggest you invest in the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2. It's the finest smartwatch that money can buy and is great fun to use.

Time is money

Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2 Smart Watch

$250 at Amazon

Tells the time and keeps you fit

You get a fantastic dual-edged sword with the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2. It is an excellent smartwatch, and fitness tracker rolled into one smooth, high-quality product with a superb display, commendable battery life, and GPS.