For some people, a standard iPhone has simply too much going on: dozens of icons, swipes that aren’t obvious and settings that change after every update. Assistive Access is Apple’s answer. It turns an iPhone or iPad into a simple device with a few large, clear buttons.

Plain talk: Assistive Access

Assistive Access is a built-in mode that hides most of the iPhone and shows only the apps you choose, as big buttons with big labels. It’s included free on iPhones and iPads that run iOS 17 or later.

Who it’s for, and who it isn’t

Assistive Access suits someone who:

  • only needs a few things: calls, messages, photos and the camera
  • gets lost in menus or taps things by mistake
  • is living with memory loss, or finds new technology stressful

It’s probably too limited for someone who already enjoys using lots of apps. For them, bigger text and a tidy Home Screen are the better fix.

What changes in Assistive Access

  • The Home Screen shows only the apps you pick, as large buttons in a list (Rows) or a Grid.
  • Calls and Messages can be limited to chosen contacts.
  • Messages can offer an emoji-only keyboard or video messages, if that’s easier.
  • A large Back button sits at the bottom of every screen.

Before you start

  • Set aside about 20 minutes, and sit down together if you’re setting it up for someone else.
  • Know the phone’s Apple Account password. You may be asked for it.
  • Decide which apps and people matter most. Calls, Messages, Camera and Photos are the usual choices.

How to set up Assistive Access

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap Accessibility.
  3. Tap Assistive Access, then Set Up Assistive Access.
  4. Tap Continue and follow the steps on screen. You’ll be asked to:
    • choose Rows (a simple list) or Grid (large icons side by side);
    • choose the apps to include and how each one works, such as which contacts can call;
    • set an Assistive Access passcode, used to leave the mode.
  5. When you’re ready, tap Enter Assistive Access.

Try this

Choose Rows for someone with low vision. Each button gets a full-width row with a large label, which is easier to read and tap.

How to leave Assistive Access

  1. Triple-click the side button (on iPhones with Face ID) or the Home button (on iPhones with a Home button).
  2. Tap Exit Assistive Access.
  3. Enter the Assistive Access passcode.

Write the passcode on a card kept at home, in a safe place, so a family member can change settings later.

Safety tip

Limiting who can call and text in Assistive Access also cuts out most scam calls and messages, because only chosen contacts can get through.

On iPad too

Assistive Access works the same way on an iPad. It’s especially good for video calls with family on a bigger screen.

Setting up an iPhone for a parent? Our one-afternoon setup checklist covers text size, contacts, emergency features and scam protection, all in one go.