Your iPhone has a built-in "dumb mode"

No additional apps or purchases are required.

A minimal icon depicting a phone with apps in a grid layout
A minimal icon depicting a phone with apps in a grid layout
A minimal icon depicting a phone with apps in a grid layout

Minimalist app launchers and dumbphones are gaining popularity as more people try to reduce distractions.

But before you install another app or buy a second device, it’s worth knowing this:

You can turn your iPhone from a smartphone into a dumbphone.

This is thanks to the Assistive Access feature of iOS, which is designed to help people with cognitive disabilities use the iPhone.

Apple describes that "onscreen items are bigger, features are more focused, and it’s easier to navigate and understand what actions are possible."

This simplified setup aligns with the needs of individuals looking for a less distracting device.

To get started, navigate to Settings > Accessibility and find the Assistive Access option.

Navigation to Assistive Access in iPhone Settings

Next, you can choose between a Rows or Grid appearance for your apps.

Appearance customization in the Assistive Access settings of the iPhone

Then you can select from a list of apps that you want to allow access to within Assistive Access.

App selection in the Assistive Access settings on the iPhone

Once you complete the setup, you can enter Assistive Access or choose to use it later.

iPhone in Assistive Access

To exit Assistive Access, simply triple-click the power button.

To make any changes, return to Settings > Accessibility and find Assistive Access again.

You can refer to the Assistive Access User Guide provided by Apple Support for a more detailed overview of the setup.

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