Over the past few days, I've been experimenting with a new feature in
the iOS 17 update called Assistive Access. It allows you to create a
custom interface restricting access to specific apps.I learned about it
from a post
by CodeMacLife on Medium. Apple created this feature to help people
with cognitive disabilities.
Assistive Access is a distinctive iOS experience, with more focused features and a simplified user interface, which allows people with cognitive disabilities to use iPhone with greater ease and independence.
But it's also helpful to anyone, like myself, who wants to enforce some
constraints on their phone usage. Â
Initial Setup
Go to Settings > Accessibility > Assistive Access (under General)
There's some setup involved initially, such as picking your apps,
granting permissions, and creating a passcode, but it's pretty
straightforward. Once configured, you navigate back through the same
menu options whenever you want to activate Assistive Access.
Switching Modes
You can exit Assistive Access and return to regular mode by pressing the
home button three times and entering your passcode. Â
Switching doesn't require a reboot, but there's a significant lag. I
consider that a plus. If it were easy to switch modes, it would defeat
the purpose.
If you need to access other apps, you can, but there's enough resistance
that you likely won't do it often.
Final Thoughts
If you've ever considered getting a second "dumb phone" or want a
simplified smartphone experience, Assistive Access might be worth a
try.
