Hey there, iPhone users! Have you heard about the cool new Detection Mode in the Magnifier app? Starting with iOS 17, iPhones equipped with LiDAR (that’s iPhone 12 and newer) have an amazing feature that’s a game-changer for the visually impaired. This nifty tool can now help identify nearby people, doors, and even describe the surroundings!
In this guide, I will show you how to Set Up and Use Detection Mode on your iPhone and iPad. This is Perfect for everyone but especially a blessing for those with visual challenges.
What is Detection Mode in Magnifier on iPhone?
The Detection Mode within the iPhone’s Magnifier app, a feature rolled out with iOS 12 in 2018, brings an innovative layer to accessibility. Using the iPhone’s powerful LiDAR and camera systems, it give a descriptive picture of the user’s surroundings. Here’s a breakdown:
- People Detection: This tool senses nearby individuals, offering an awareness of personal space or assisting in social distancing.
- Door Detection: Beyond just identifying a door, this function also guides how to approach and open it, acting as a real-time guide.
- Image Descriptions: By interpreting visuals, this mode can describe various items and even texts in the vicinity, enhancing understanding of one’s environment.
Apple devices that support Detection Mode
Detection Mode in the Magnifier app on iOS 17 primarily relies on the LiDAR sensor to function. Therefore, not all iPhones or iPads support this feature. The full Detection Mode, including Door Detection and People Detection, is available on:
- iPhone 12 Pro & iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 13 Pro & iPhone 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 14 Pro & iPhone 14 Pro Max
- iPad Pro (2020)
- iPad Pro (2021)
However, all iPhone models running iOS 17 can access the Image Description tool within Detection Mode, even without a LiDAR sensor.
How to Set Up Detection Mode in Magnifier App in iOS 17
- Open the Magnifier app on your iPhone. Tap the Settings icon in the bottom right corner and then select “Settings” from the dropdown menu.
- In the “Customize Controls” section, hit the + sign next to Detection Mode under the Other Controls section. This action will add the Detection Mode to the bottom menu bar in the Magnifier app, joining the other available modes.
- To adjust detector settings, navigate to “People Detection,” “Door Detection,” and “Image Descriptions” under the Detectors section.
- Select any detector from the list to fine-tune its Units, Sound Pitch Distance, Feedback, and other settings. (e.g. Customize Door Detection and People Detection)
- After setting up the Detection Mode in the Magnifier app, hit the “Done” button on the “Customize Controls” page to save your preferences.
- Now, tap the Detection Mode button on the bottom menu bar to use this feature.
With Detection Mode ready in the Magnifier app, you can easily access this feature from the app’s bottom navigation bar.
Use Door Detection on iPhone and iPad
- First off, Open the Magnifier app.
- Now tap on “Detection Mode.”
- At last, choose the Door Detection icon.
A confirmation will appear at the top. Approach a door, and your iPhone will identify it, providing details on distance and door type.
Customize Door Detection in Magnifier app
To customize Door Detection, tap the gear icon, select “Settings,” then scroll to and tap “Door Detection.” Here, you’ll find a range of customization options.
| Feature | Options | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Units | Meters / Feet | Mesure distance |
| Feedback | Sounds / Speech / Haptics | Feedback when a door is detected |
| Display | Colour | Color of the door outline |
| Back Tap | Hear more about detected doors | |
| Door Information | Door Attributes | Detailed information about the door |
| Door Decorations | Insights about door decorations |
Use People Detection on iPhone and iPad
- Begin with the lonch the Magnifier app.
- Now tap on the “Detection Mode” icon.
- finally, choose the People Detection icon.
A confirmation will appear at the top. As you approach someone, your iPhone will notify you of their presence and their distance from you.
Customize People Detection in Magnifier app
Open Magnifier, tap on Detection Mode, then select People Detection. This will lead you to customization options.
| Feature | Options | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Units | Meters / Feet | Mesure distance |
| Audible Alert | Sound Pitch Distance | Customize sound pitch based on the distance from a person |
| Feedback | Sounds / Speech / Haptics | Feedback when a person is detected |
Wrapping up…
That’s it, readers! The detection mode in the Magnifier app allows users to easily identify doors or people. Once set up, both the iPhone and iPad provide feedback on surrounding objects, enhancing user navigation. It’s a testament to Apple’s commitment to producing user-friendly, inclusive devices.
