Apple released iOS 17.4 in March, which brought new features like Podcast transcripts and Apple Cash virtual card numbers. However, when iOS 17 was released in September, a new feature called Screen Distance was introduced. This feature helps users take better care of their eyes by warning them when they are holding their iPhone or iPad too close to their face. This can help reduce eyestrain and lower the risk of myopia. To turn on Screen Distance, users need to go to Settings, tap on Screen Time, and then tap on Screen Distance. They will then see two screens explaining how the feature works, and once they tap continue, Screen Distance is activated.
Once Screen Distance is turned on, if a user holds their iPhone too close to their face for a prolonged period, their screen will be blocked by a message that reads “iPhone May Be Too Close.” The screen will remain blocked until the user holds their device farther away from their face. This feature aims to help users maintain a healthy distance from their screens to reduce eye strain. However, if users find the warnings to be more annoying than helpful, they can easily turn off Screen Distance by going back into settings, tapping on Screen Time, and toggling off Screen Distance.
For those interested in learning more about iOS 17 and its features, they can check out the latest versions like iOS 17.4 and iOS 17.3. Additionally, there is an iOS 17 cheat sheet available for a quick reference to all the new features and updates. It is important to note that maintaining good screen distance and taking breaks from screen time can have a positive impact on eye health. By being mindful of how close we hold our devices to our faces and utilizing features like Screen Distance, we can protect our eyes from potential harm and reduce the risk of developing nearsightedness.
Overall, the introduction of Screen Distance in iOS 17 is a helpful feature that promotes eye health by encouraging users to maintain a healthy distance from their screens. By following simple steps to turn on this feature and being mindful of how we use our devices, we can reduce eye strain and potential eye-related issues. Whether users find the feature beneficial or prefer to turn it off, the option is available for customization. As technology continues to advance, it is essential to prioritize eye care and incorporate features like Screen Distance into our daily device usage habits.
