Make the iPad easier to use

Use Accessibility settings to tweak text size, color options, and more

Accessibility is one of the greatest features in iOS. Apple spends a lot of time and effort making sure that everybody can use its devices. An iPad or iPhone device has a huge range of features designed to make it usable for people with various disabilities. From blindness and deafness, through to various motor control and muscular disorders. Some of these features can be life-changing for those with disabilities, but they are incredibly useful for everybody. The Reduce Motion mode can increase battery life, and help older devices run more smoothly. Guided Access is often used by stores and exhibition rooms to lock down iPad devices. And anyone might prefer to make the text on their iPad larger, or to make tappable buttons more clear on-screen.

Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO, told Auburn University students: “We design our products so they surprise and delight everyone who uses them. And we never, never, ever analyze the return on investment. We do it because it is just and right.

“People with disabilities often find themselves in a struggle to have their human dignity acknowledged,” he continued. “They’re frequently left in the shadows of technological advancements that are a source of empowerment and entertainment for others. Apple’s engineers push back against this unacceptable reality.” Five key sections The Accessibility options in iOS are found under the General section in Settings. Here you will find various options split into five key sections: Vision, Interaction, Hearing, Media, and Learning.

Vision options such as VoiceOver, Zoom, and Invert Colors can assist those with low vision to see items on the screen more clearly. The Reduce Motion helps users who struggle with motion sickness. Options such as Assistive Touch and Switch Control help people who struggle with the Multi-Touch gestures.

Meanwhile, Guided Access mode assists autistic children and people with various learning difficulties. It is used to restrict an iOS device temporarily, preventing the user from switching apps or backing out to the Home screen.