Evidence was found in the second beta of iOS 16.2 that Apple is further simplifying the user interface (UI) on iPhones and iPads via a new mode.
It was first discovered by 9to5Mac (Opens in a new tab). The second beta of iOS 16.2 is currently available for Download through the Apple Developer Program (Opens in a new tab), but you cannot use the new mode at this time because it is not available to users. This could mean that the feature is out of release or it’s something Apple is just trying to try. Either way, it’s a sign that the company remains committed to working on accessibility features for its user base.
Simplified user interface
The purpose of the custom access mode, according to the report, is to make iPhones and iPads more “user friendly” for people who find their interfaces too complex. Mode can allow people to change the user interface layout to a grid or list style. The text and app icons can be made much larger on the home screen, plus it looks like you can enable quick access to some SOS features, like the Emergency Services button.
A password can be set up to prevent other people using the same device from changing settings, according to 9to5 Mac. Clicking the side or home button three times can enable and disable the custom access mode.
Looking at pictures of the situation in action, it Radically simplifies the design (Opens in a new tab) From apps and the home screen to focus on zooming in on things. The lock screen turns into one big button with “hold down Enter” in the middle. The apps have huge icons that take up most of the screen and the bottom dock is gone.
The Official release notes (Opens in a new tab) Don’t detail the other features, just focus on the fixes in the beta version. To preview the other features, you have to go to Twitter where people are leaking them. a New health tool (Opens in a new tab) It will remind users to take their medication. New animations in the music app (Opens in a new tab) Change the size of the song’s image to indicate if it’s playing or paused.
In a recent Power On news release, Apple insider Mark Gorman said he expects the official release of iOS 16.2 and iPadOS 16.2 sometime in mid-December. There, users can get their hands on The long-awaited Freeform app (Opens in a new tab) Plus the next offering for Stage Manager. Gurman also hints that the iOS 16.3 release date falls in the first quarter of 2023.
Accessibility is key
As mentioned earlier, Apple has been working on accessibility features on the iPhone for a while now. witnessed June 2021 Provided by SignTime, a service that allows the hard of hearing to communicate using sign language through a web browser, and new background sounds for diverse users of nerves. And earlier this year, we saw the debut of door detection To help visually impaired users locate the entrance to the building.
But there’s one feature we’ve been waiting for: Emergency SOS via Satellite, a tool to get people in touch with emergency services if they’re outside cellular and Wi-Fi range. A recent Apple Support post mentions the launch of Emergency SOS very soon. Be sure to Read our coverage to find out more.