iOS 17 Screen Distance: Apple’s Solution for Eye Strain and Nearsightedness
Apple recently released iOS 17, the latest version of its iPhone and iPad operating system. Among its many features, one stands out for its emphasis on users’ eye health. Screen Distance, a new opt-in feature from Apple, aims to protect iPhone and iPad users’ eyesight by alerting them when their devices are held too close to their eyes for extended periods of time. This feature not only reduces the risk of nearsightedness, particularly in children, but it also promotes healthy viewing habits and relieves eye strain.
iOS 17 Screen Distance
Screen Distance: How it Works
The TrueDepth camera is used by Apple’s Screen Distance feature to measure the distance between the user’s face and the device. Screen Distance alerts the user by displaying an “iPhone is Too Close” warning whenever an iPhone or iPad is held closer than 12 inches from the user’s face for an extended period of time. This reminds the user to adjust the device to a safe viewing distance.
iOS 17 Screen Distance
Enabling Screen Distance
Users can enable the Screen Distance feature by going to the Settings app on their iPhone or iPad. They will find the Screen Time section in the Settings app, where they can find the Screen Distance option. This feature is available on all iPhone and iPad models that support Face ID. Users will receive notifications when their device is held too close, and they will be able to acknowledge the warning by relocating the device to a safe distance once activated. When the correct distance is reached, a checkmark appears on the screen, and users can resume normal use of their device.
iOS 17 Screen Distance
Availability and Future Release
iOS 17 is currently only available to developers, with the public beta version expected later this year. This delay enables Apple to fine-tune the operating system in response to developer feedback, ensuring a smooth user experience when it is widely available.
iOS 17 Screen Distance
Additional Enhancements in iOS 17
Aside from the Screen Distance feature, iOS 17 includes a number of other enhancements and features aimed at improving the overall user experience. Improvements to communication apps such as Phones, FaceTime, and Messages make them more intuitive and user-friendly. AirDrop sharing has been streamlined, and intelligent input has been improved to improve typing speed and accuracy.
Furthermore, iOS 17 includes new apps such as Journal, which helps with gratitude practices, and StandBy, which allows you to view glanceable information while your iPhone is charging.
iOS 17 Screen Distance
Apple has demonstrated its commitment to user well-being, particularly when it comes to eye health, with the introduction of the Screen Distance feature in iOS 17. Apple hopes to reduce the risk of nearsightedness and eye strain by providing gentle reminders and encouraging users to keep a safe distance between their eyes and their devices. As iOS 17 continues to be developed and tested, users can expect a more comprehensive and user-friendly experience when it becomes widely available.
Disclaimer: This article’s information is based on Apple’s announcement of iOS 17 features. As Apple refines and finalizes the operating system, any details or release dates are subject to change.
Read Also: