UK Time

How to Change the Clocks: Phones, Cars, Ovens and More

Most modern devices update themselves, but a surprising number do not. Use this checklist before the next clock change.

What updates automatically

Smartphones, tablets, laptops, smart TVs and most smart speakers pull the time from the network and apply the correct UK rules. Check that the time zone is set to London or Europe/London, not a fixed offset such as GMT+0.

Radio-controlled wall clocks and watches pick up the national MSF time signal and change on their own, usually within a day.

What you change by hand

Ovens, microwaves, central-heating timers, some car dashboards, analogue wall clocks and many fitness trackers need manual changes. Cars with satellite navigation often update automatically, while older models do not.

Set heating and lighting timers last, then walk through the house once to catch any clock you forgot.

Smart-home gotchas

Automation routines that use sunrise or sunset adjust on their own, but those set to a fixed clock time shift against daylight. After the autumn change, check any porch lights or blinds that rely on a set time.

Frequently asked questions

Why is my phone showing the wrong time after the change?

Check that automatic date and time and the automatic time zone are both on, and that your zone is set to London.

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