Lowering the screen on your iPhone 13 is quite simple and can be done in a few quick steps. Once you enable the “Reachability” feature in the settings, a gentle swipe down on the bottom edge of the screen will lower the top half of the display, making it easier to reach with one hand. This is especially useful for people with smaller hands or when using the phone one-handed.
After completing this action, you’ll find accessing the top of the screen much less of a stretch. This includes tapping apps, notifications, and anything else that may have previously required a second hand or some finger gymnastics.
Introduction
Ever stretched your thumb awkwardly to reach the top of your iPhone screen, only to drop it or tap the wrong thing? Well, you’re not alone. The sleek and large design of the iPhone 13 can make one-handed use a challenge, especially for those with smaller hands. But fear not, Apple has thought of a solution to this problem: the Reachability feature. This handy function allows you to lower the top half of your iPhone’s screen so that everything is within easy thumb’s reach.
It’s a simple tweak, but for many users, it’s a game-changer, ensuring comfort and preventing accidental phone drops. Whether you’re a busy parent juggling a child and groceries, someone with mobility issues, or just someone trying to make life a little easier, learning how to lower your screen on an iPhone 13 is relevant and beneficial.
How to Lower Screen on iPhone 13
Before we dive into the steps, let’s clarify what we’re aiming for. By following these instructions, you’ll be activating a feature that allows the top portion of your iPhone screen to come down to the middle, making it easier to reach with your thumb.
Step 1: Open Settings App
Open the “Settings” app on your iPhone 13.
When you open the “Settings” app, you’ll be greeted with a list of options that control every aspect of your iPhone’s behavior. You’ll want to navigate to the “Accessibility” menu, which is designed to make the iPhone easier for everyone to use.
Step 2: Tap on Accessibility
Scroll down and tap on “Accessibility.”
This is the section where Apple has put all its features that help make the iPhone more accessible to people with various needs. You’ll find options for vision, physical and motor, and hearing.
Step 3: Select Touch
In the Accessibility menu, select “Touch.”
Once you tap on “Touch,” you’ll see a list of options that change how you can interact with your iPhone’s screen. These include AssistiveTouch, Touch Accommodations, and the Reachability feature which we are looking for.
Step 4: Toggle on Reachability
Switch the Reachability toggle to the ON position.
You’ll know the Reachability feature is activated when the toggle turns green. This means you’re all set to use the feature.
Pros
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Easier One-Handed Use | Activating Reachability makes it easier to use your iPhone 13 with just one hand, which is especially useful when you’re on the go. |
| Prevents Strain | Lowering the screen can prevent straining your thumb or hand, making for a more comfortable user experience. |
| Enhances Accessibility | For those with limited mobility in their hands, Reachability makes the iPhone more accessible and user-friendly. |
Cons
| Drawback | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Accidental Activation | Sometimes, you might accidentally activate Reachability when navigating the bottom of the screen, which can be annoying. |
| Limited to Certain Models | Reachability is not available on all iPhone models, which can be frustrating for users with older or smaller phones. |
| Takes Time to Get Used To | It may take some time for users to get used to the gesture and remember to use it when needed. |
Additional Information
While the steps above have you covered, there’s a bit more to know about using the Reachability feature effectively. For instance, once the screen is lowered, it will automatically go back to its full height after a few seconds of inactivity, or if you tap an app or a button on the top half of the screen. Additionally, if you’re someone who uses a protective case, ensure it doesn’t hinder the swiping gesture required to activate Reachability.
And, for those wondering if this affects the use of other gestures, fret not, all other navigational swipes and taps will work just as they always have. Lastly, remember, to lower the screen on iPhone 13, just a light swipe down at the bottom edge of the screen will do—no need for a swipe that stretches all the way across the screen.
Summary
- Open the “Settings” app on your iPhone 13.
- Tap on “Accessibility.”
- Select “Touch.”
- Toggle on Reachability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Reachability?
Reachability is a feature on the iPhone that allows you to lower the top half of your screen to make it easier to reach with one hand.
Can I use Reachability on any iPhone?
Reachability is available on most newer iPhone models, starting from iPhone 6. However, it’s not available on the iPhone SE (1st generation) or older models.
Do I need to download an app to use Reachability?
No, Reachability is a built-in feature that can be found in the Accessibility settings of your iPhone.
Will using Reachability affect my other apps?
No, Reachability only temporarily lowers the screen. All your apps and their functionality remain unaffected.
What if Reachability doesn’t work on my iPhone 13?
Ensure you’ve followed the steps to enable it correctly. If it still doesn’t work, try restarting your phone or contacting Apple Support.
Conclusion
In the end, learning how to lower the screen on your iPhone 13 is all about enhancing your user experience. This simple yet effective feature can make a huge difference, especially for those who often find themselves multitasking or needing to use their phone one-handed. It’s a perfect example of how technology evolves not only in hardware but in user accessibility and comfort as well.
So, next time you’re stretching to reach the top of your screen, remember that the power to bring everything closer is right there in your settings. Embrace the ease that Reachability offers, and enjoy your iPhone 13 to its full potential.
Matthew Burleigh has been a freelance writer since the early 2000s. You can find his writing all over the Web, where his content has collectively been read millions of times.
Matthew received his Master’s degree in Computer Science, then spent over a decade as an IT consultant for small businesses before focusing on writing and website creation.
The topics he covers for MasterYourTech.com include iPhones, Microsoft Office, and Google Apps.
You can read his full bio here.