Using Eye-Tracking Technology on Your iPhone: A Step-by-Step Guide

Apple has recently rolled out the iOS 18 update, compatible with devices dating back to the iPhone XR and the 2nd and 3rd-generation iPhone SE. Among the numerous exciting features and accessibility advancements in this update, the eye-tracking capability is particularly noteworthy. This innovative feature enables users to navigate their devices solely with their eyes after a brief setup process.

Activating Eye-Tracking on Your iPhone

First, navigate to General -> About to verify that your device has been updated to iOS 18. You can find a complete list of compatible iPhone models for the iOS 18 update.

To start using the eye-tracking feature, go to Settings and select Accessibility. You will find the Eye Tracking option listed there.

In the Eye Tracking settings, simply switch the Eye Tracking option to the On position. The calibration process will commence automatically as the front camera monitors your eye movements. Ensure that the device is about a foot away from your face and positioned on a stable surface.

Calibrating Eye-Tracking on iPhone

The eye-tracking calibration on the iPhone is a quick process that takes roughly a minute, although it does require your attention. You will need to track several colored dots across the screen thirteen times until the calibration is complete.

Once calibrated, you’re all set to start controlling your iPhone using just your eyes. You’ll be able to select any option on the screen with your gaze, and fixing your sight on a particular area will activate that selection.

You can modify the duration required to dwell on an option to activate it. To do this, navigate to the AssistiveTouch settings on your iPhone.

Head to your Accessibility settings, select Touch, and then tap AssistiveTouch. Scroll down to Dwell Control to set the desired dwell time for selections.

Utilizing Eye-Tracking on iPhone

Once you have activated eye-tracking, an AssistiveTouch panel will be visible on the side of your screen at all times. By focusing on this panel, you gain access to features like scrolling, invoking Siri, or opening the Notification Center.

This panel allows users to lock the screen, reach the control center, or even activate Siri. While it may not be the most intuitive to operate, for individuals with limb differences, eye-tracking technology can significantly enhance usability. Furthermore, it can operate simultaneously alongside traditional touch controls.

The iOS 18 update introduces various impressive features, including distraction control, but the eye-tracking functionality is certainly a highlight. However, it is worth noting that this feature is still in its early stages. It won’t provide a completely hands-free or seamless usage experience, but it does offer a fun party trick, even for those not using the latest iPhone 16 models.

_{Image credit: All images and screenshots by Samarveer Singh.}

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