Apple Assistive Access

Apple Assistive Access

by Apple

Contact vendor for pricing

Setup with instructions Assistive Access is free and built into iOS 17+, so there's no purchase or installation barrier. However, it requires a meaningful setup process — choosing apps, configuring per-app settings, creating a passcode, and understanding how to enter and exit the mode. A caregiver or support person can absolutely do this with Apple's documentation in under an hour, making guided_setup the right tier. Professional input is beneficial but not required for most users.

Last verified June 20, 2026 · classified April 26, 2026

What it is

Summary

AI-generated from vendor-published content · April 26, 2026

Assistive Access is a simplified iPhone and iPad interface mode designed for people who find the standard iOS experience overwhelming or hard to navigate independently. It strips the home screen and built-in apps down to large icons, high-contrast text, and a dramatically reduced number of options — so someone can make calls, send messages, take photos, and listen to music without wading through complex menus. This is a free software feature built into iOS 17 and later, meaning there's nothing to download or purchase — it just needs to be turned on and configured in Settings. The person setting it up (a family member, caregiver, or support worker) chooses which apps appear and customizes options per-app, so the initial configuration requires some time and familiarity with the person's needs to get right.

Quick Facts Catalog facts · auto-generated
Type
Addresses
Platform
Age range
ComplexitySetup with instructions
Price
Funding
  • Out of pocket
VerifiedJune 20, 2026
ClassifiedApril 26, 2026 · confidence: high
VendorApple ↗

What Setup Looks Like

  • Out of the box
    1. Verify the iPhone or iPad is running iOS 17 or later — check in Settings > General > Software Update.
    2. Open Settings > Accessibility > Assistive Access and tap 'Set Up Assistive Access' to begin.
  • With a guide
    1. Work through Apple's setup wizard to choose which apps appear and configure each app's options (e.g., contacts allowed to call/text, photo library access).
    2. Enable Assistive Access at the end of setup — the device restarts into the simplified interface; enter the passcode you created to exit back to standard iOS when needed.
    3. Plan for 20–45 minutes of setup time to personalize app selection and test the experience with the user. See manufacturer support resources for detailed instructions.
  • With professional help
    1. An occupational therapist (OT) or special education AT specialist can assess which apps and interaction levels match the person's cognitive and motor abilities.
    2. For users with complex support needs, an AT professional can coordinate Assistive Access configuration alongside other accommodations (switch access, AAC apps). See manufacturer support resources for detailed instructions.

Getting it

Many states lend devices like this for free trial periods — find your state's AT lending program.

Where to Get It

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Sources & fine print

Vendor facts (name, price, platforms, vendor link) sourced from Apple — view on vendor site; last verified June 20, 2026.

Classification & description AI-generated from vendor-published content on April 26, 2026 · confidence: high. Vendor specs may lag; verify before relying on details in a clinical or funding artifact.

WhatCanHelp.com helps you explore options — it does not replace a professional AT assessment.