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iPhone User Guide

Help protect your vision health with Screen Distance on iPhone

Viewing a device too closely for an extended period of time can increase the risk of myopia (nearsightedness) for younger users, and eyestrain for users of all ages. In Screen Time, the Screen Distance feature uses the TrueDepth camera (on supported models) to detect when you hold iPhone closer than 12 inches for an extended period, and encourages you to move it farther away.

Screen Distance can remind younger users to engage in healthy viewing habits that can lower their risk of myopia. It gives adult users the opportunity to reduce digital eyestrain.

Note: Face ID must be set up in order to use Screen Distance. Screen Distance is turned on by default for children under 13 in a Family Sharing group. (Age varies by country and region.)

Turn Screen Distance on or off

  1. Go to the Settings app 👁 Image
     on your iPhone.

  2. Tap Screen Time.

    If you want to turn Screen Distance on or off for your child, tap your child's name.

  3. Tap Screen Distance, then turn Screen Distance on or off.

With Screen Distance on, when you hold the screen too close to your face for an extended period, Screen Distance covers the screen with an alert, preventing you from continuing. When you move iPhone more than 12 inches away, you can tap Continue to resume using it.

👁 A screen warning that you’re holding the iPhone too close and that you should move it farther away to protect your vision health. The warning covers the screen, stopping you from continuing. There’s a Continue button that becomes active when you’ve moved your iPhone a safe distance away.
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