Apple Introduces New Features to Help Protect Kids’s Eyesight
During its annual WWDC on Monday, Apple showcased features aimed at minimizing eye strain in children, such as a daylight sensor and alerts to adjust the screen’s distance from the eyes. These features were initially previewed for Global Accessibility Awareness Day in May, with a focus on health and accessibility. Although anyone can use them, Apple stated that they are specifically designed for children, as nearsightedness or myopia typically develops during childhood and affects around 30% of the US population, according to the American Optometric Association.
Apple said at WWDC that spending more time outside in bright daylight can help reduce a child’s risk of myopia. The new Apple Watch feature uses an ambient light sensor to measure the time the user spends outdoors. This information appears in the Health app and the Health Sharing for Families app so that parents and guardians can access information for children who don’t have an iPhone.
Another effort to reduce the risk of nearsightedness is Apple’s new screen distance detection. Screen Distance uses the camera technology behind Face ID in other Apple products to send an alert when the user is too close to their screen. The notification prompts users to move the device away from their face if they hold it too close.
According to Apple, all information in the Health app, including children’s vision updates, is encrypted. The features are available as part of watchOS 10.
