In September, Apple released iOS 18, which included RCS messaging and a configurable home screen, among many other new capabilities for your iPhone. But in 2023, Apple released iOS 17, bringing with it a new function called Screen Distance that may help you take better care of your eyes.
CNET Tech Tips
Similar to a parent telling you to sit further back from the TV or computer screen, the feature alerts you when you’re holding your iPhone or iPad too close to your face. Cedars-Sinai, a health care company, states that while using a screen close to your face may not be harmful to your eyes, it may cause stress and irritation. Fortunately, this new iOS 17 function is designed to help you lessen eyestrain and may even minimize the risk of myopia, or nearsightedness, according to Apple.
Here’s how to activate Screen Distance so you may rest your eyes.
See also: The Importance of Screen Time for Eye Health
Activate Screen Distance
1. Go to Settings.
2. Select “Screen Time.”
3. Select “Screen Distance.”
Two screenshots next to each other. The screens say “Screen Distance” on the left and “How Screen Distance Works” on the right.
When you initially visit Screen Distance, these screens show up.
Zach McAuliffe/CNET screenshot
After that, you’ll see two displays that describe Screen Distance and its operation. After selecting “Continue” on both screens, Screen Distance will start up automatically. Only the first time you enter Screen Distance do both screens appear.
Now, after a few minutes of holding your iPhone too close to your face, a notice that reads, “iPhone May Be Too Close,” blocks your screen.
Two screenshots next to each other. iPhone May Be Too Close is displayed on the left side of the screen, while a checkmark is displayed on the right side. Distance from the Screen
Screen Distance disables your iPhone’s screen when you hold it too close to your face over an extended period of time.
CNET/Zach McAuliffe
Up till you hold your iPhone farther away, your screen stays blocked. After that, a checkmark appears on your screen; to remove the block, you must hit Continue.
See also: How Optometrists Suggest Overcoming Eye Strain
Disabling Screen Distance
One helpful iOS feature that may lessen eyestrain and potentially lower the risk of nearsightedness is Screen Distance. Here’s how to disable Screen Distance, though, if you find the alerts more bothersome than useful.
1. Go to Settings.
2. Select “Screen Time.”
3. Select “Screen Distance.”
4. Next to Screen Distance, tap the toggle.
Without being distracted by your phone or your parents, you may now resume holding your iPhone as close to your face as you like.
For additional iOS news, check out our iOS 18 cheat sheet, my iOS 18 review, and what you need to know about iOS 18.1. You may also see what iOS 18.2 might bring to your iPhone in the near future.