Home » How to set up Assistive Access on your iPhone or iPad | Apple Support

How to set up Assistive Access on your iPhone or iPad | Apple Support

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How to set up Assistive Access on your iPhone or iPad | Apple Support

Assistive Access is a powerful accessibility feature on iPhone and iPad designed to help users with cognitive disabilities enjoy a simplified, focused experience. In this guide, you’ll learn how a trusted supporter can set it up and customize it for a user’s needs—improving both usability and independence.

What is Assistive Access?

Assistive Access streamlines the iOS interface to make it more accessible for individuals who may find standard navigation challenging. It offers:

  • Simplified layouts (grid or row view)

  • Customizable apps with limited functionality

  • Easy navigation with consistent Back buttons

  • A dedicated passcode for security and control

Step-by-Step: How to Set Up Assistive Access

1. Access the Feature

Navigate to Settings > Accessibility, scroll to the bottom, and tap Assistive Access.

2. Begin Setup

Tap Set Up Assistive Access > Continue. Ensure the user is signed into their Apple ID on the device. You can change the Apple Account if necessary.

3. Choose Display Style

Select a layout—Row (for text preference) or Grid (for visual preference). Tap Continue.

4. Add Apps to Use

Select apps to include. Some apps, like Calls, offer additional customization:

  • Limit calls to contacts or anyone

  • Add Favorites for quick access

  • Choose contact methods (Phone, FaceTime)

  • Enable keypad and speaker options

5. Include Other Apps

You can add any installed app. These will feature a unified Back button to simplify navigation.

6. Create an Assistive Access Passcode

Set a unique passcode (different from the device passcode). Optionally, set a recovery Apple ID as a backup to exit Assistive Access if the passcode is forgotten.

7. Finish Setup

Follow prompts to complete setup. Tap Start Using Assistive Access or Enter Later if you want to delay activation.

Using Assistive Access

Once activated:

  • The device enters a simplified mode.

  • Navigation is easy with persistent Back buttons.

  • Triple-clicking the side button opens accessibility shortcuts.

  • Users can return to the Home Screen or exit Assistive Access using the passcode.

Additional Settings

In Accessibility > Assistive Access, you can:

  • Change wallpaper

  • Show/hide time on the lock screen

  • Customize accessibility shortcuts


Assistive Access empowers users with cognitive challenges by providing a more intuitive and manageable iPhone or iPad experience.


Explore more accessibility insights and tech guides at Xreviu.com
Written by: Apple Support
Author profile: https://www.youtube.com/@applesupport


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assistive access, iphone accessibility, ipad accessibility, cognitive disabilities, apple support, ios features, iphone setup, simplified interface, accessibility tips, tech guide, xreviu