A LITTLE-KNOWN iPhone setting can save you from holding it dangerously close to your face.
There’s no cost to turning it on and it doesn’t require any special downloads.
That’s because it’s a standard Apple feature that was added to the iPhone with iOS 17 last year.
It’s called Screen Distance and it’s turned off by default – unless you’re a child under 13 in a Family Sharing group.
Apple says that the feature is designed to protect your eyes.
“Viewing something like a device or book too closely for an extended period of time can increase eye strain and the risk of myopia,” the tech giant explained.
“The Screen Distance feature in Screen Time uses the TrueDepth camera to detect when you hold your iPhone closer than 12 inches for an extended period, and encourages you to move it farther away.”
Apple added: “Screen Distance can help children engage in healthy viewing habits that can lower their risk of myopia.
“And can give people of all ages the opportunity to reduce digital eyestrain.”
First, you’ll need to make sure that you’ve got iOS 17 or later.
We’re already on iOS 18, so there’s a good chance that your iPhone is already prepared.
To check, go to Settings > General > Software Update.
You also need to make sure that you have an iPhone with a TrueDepth camera – that’s what’s used for Face ID, as well as Screen Distance.
Once you’ve got the latest software (and a correct iPhone model), go to Settings > Screen Time.
Then tap on Screen Distance, and toggle the setting on.
Then just use your iPhone as normal, and you’ll receive an alert if you’re holding it too close.
Be aware that it won’t pop up as soon as you bring your iPhone close to your face.
It takes a little time before the alert is triggered – so that the feature doesn’t become annoying.
When the pop-up does appear, your screen will be covered. This stops you from doing anything until you clear it.
To get rid of it, move your iPhone more than 12 inches from your face and then tap on Continue.
Here's the full list of iPhone models with Face ID...
Picture Credit: Apple
If you change your mind about the feature – or find it very annoying – then you can turn it off at any time.
Just go back into Settings > Screen Time and then toggle the feature off.
