The accessibility icon symbol, shown in place of a product photo.

Apple Assistive Access

by Apple

Free

Built into the operating system. Nothing to buy.

Setup with instructions It's free and built into the device, but choosing the right apps and layout for the person takes some planning. A family member or supporter can do this in about half an hour using Apple's written and video instructions, so guided setup fits. Checking the choices in the preview helps get a good result.

What it is

Summary

AI-generated from vendor-published content · October 7, 2026

Assistive Access is a built-in iPhone and iPad mode that swaps the usual interface for a simpler one with high-contrast buttons, large text labels, and pictures in place of words. Someone who finds a regular phone overwhelming can use a trimmed-down set of apps, including Calls, Messages, Camera, Photos, Music, Magnifier, and the Apple TV app. You can pick a grid layout with icons or a row layout with text. Messages offers an emoji-only keyboard and video messages for people who prefer to communicate visually. AAC apps (apps that speak or display messages for people who don't use speech) and other third-party apps are supported. Setup includes a preview of your choices, so you can see how it will look before you commit. A trusted supporter will usually want to be involved in choosing which apps appear and how they're arranged.

Getting it

Where to get it

Apple Visit
Free

This is the vendor WhatCanHelp tracks for this product — it may also be available from other retailers or a local supplier, and prices vary.

Details

Quick Facts Catalog facts · auto-generated
Type
Addresses
Platform
Age range
Complexity
Setup with instructions
Price
Free
Funding
  • Out of pocket

What setup looks like

  • Out of the box
    Open Settings on the iPhone or iPad and look for the Assistive Access option to begin.
  • With a guide
    1. Walk through the setup screens with the person who will use it, choosing which apps to include and whether to use the grid or row layout.
    2. Use the preview during setup to check the Home Screen and Lock Screen, then adjust the settings inside individual apps as needed.
    3. Plan about 30 minutes for a first setup, with more time to fine-tune apps afterward. See manufacturer support resources for detailed instructions.

View official support docs → (opens in a new tab)

Sources & fine print

Vendor facts (name, price, platforms, vendor link) sourced from Apple — view on vendor site (opens in a new tab); last checked November 1, 2026.

Classification & description AI-generated from vendor-published content on October 7, 2026 · confidence: high. Vendor specs may lag; verify before relying on details in a clinical or funding artifact.

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