How to use eye tracking on iPhone or iPad?

Apple offers a host of accessibility features on its iPhones and iPads. These make it easier to use the devices for everyone. The Cupertino-based tech giant introduced eye-tracking with the iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 versions. It is a game-changing feature that allows users to navigate and control their devices just with their eyes. Although anybody can use it, eye tracking benefits people with physical disabilities the most. It is also useful when the user is engaged in any activity, like doing dishes or holding a toddler.  

The eye-tracking accessibility feature does not require any additional hardware or accessories. Once it is enabled and the initial setup is completed, you can launch apps, scroll through social media, web pages, and lock your device. The feature works by utilising the device’s front camera and on-device intelligence to track your eye movements. 

List of compatible devices

Eye tracking works on iPhone 12 series and later with an A12 chipset or higher. Your phone also needs to be running on the latest iOS 18 version. Meanwhile, the accessibility feature is available on iPad Mini 6th gen, iPad 10th gen, iPad Air 4th gen and later, and iPad Pro 3rd gen and later with iPadOS 18. 

Whether you have accessibility needs or not, we guide you on how to use eye eye-tracking accessibility feature on iPhones and iPads. 

How to turn on eye-tracking?

On compatible iPhone and iPad, just follow the steps listed below

1. Head to Settings
2. Go to Accessibility 
3. Select Eye Tracking
4. Toggle the button to enable the feature. 

Once the button turns green (which means enabled), you’re displayed with colour dots across the screen that you have to look at and follow one by one to calibrate the eye tracking feature. Apple says that for best results, the iPhone or iPad must be placed on a stable surface, 1.5 feet away from your face in a well-lit area. You should also avoid blinking during the setup process. 

How to start tracking iPhone and iPad with your eyes?

Once the on-screen calibration process for eye tracking is completed, Dwell Control will automatically be turned on. It allows you to perform selected actions by maintaining gaze on an interactable item on a page or within the app. 

Move your gaze slowly across the screen, and you will notice how the eye-tracking feature works. The Snap to Item option that is enabled by default puts a frame around the item that you’re currently looking at. 

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Eye tracking also works with the Assistive Touch feature that helps users access common functions quickly. Gazing over the Assistive Touch circle opens various functions that can be activated by resting your gaze on the action you want to perform. You can lock your i

Eye tracking on iPhone and iPad does its job as intended. It’s still not quite precise, as both devices lack high-end tracking cameras. If the feature doesn’t feel accurate or responsive, try setting it up again. Additionally, it can also be disabled if you don’t want to use it, but doing so will require you to set up the calibration again.