With the Magnifier app on the Pro or iPad running the latest iOS 17, users with low vision have a powerful tool at their disposal. One of the standout features, "People Detection," is designed to enhance spatial awareness by letting you know the proximity of others around you. This can be incredibly helpful in navigating crowded spaces or maintaining social distance. To make the most of this feature, here’s a detailed guide on how you can easily set up and start using "People Detection" to improve your daily interactions and mobility.
Quick Guide
- Open Magnifier App: Access the app from the Control Center or the App Library.
- Enable People Detection: Tap the “Detect” button within the app.
- Use People Detection: Point your device in the direction of people, and the app will inform you of the distance to them in real time.
Detailed Step-by-Step Walkthrough
Step 1: Open Magnifier App
- If you haven’t added Magnifier to your Control Center, go to “Settings” > “Control Center,” then tap the green "+" button next to Magnifier to add it.
- Access the Magnifier from the Control Center by swiping down from the top-right corner of your screen (or up from the bottom if you have a Home button) and tapping the Magnifier icon.
Step 2: Enable People Detection
- Once the Magnifier app is open, look for the “Detect” button which might appear as an icon with a figure or a radar symbol. Tap on it.
- The first time you use this feature, you may be prompted to allow Magnifier to use your camera. Tap “OK” to permit this.
Step 3: Use People Detection
- Point the camera of your iPhone or iPad toward the area where people are. The app will analyse the scene and use LiDAR technology to detect the presence of people.
- The screen will display the distance to the person nearest to you. This can be shown in feet or meters, depending on your settings. If you need verbal announcements, ensure that voice feedback is enabled in the app settings.
Step 4: Customise Settings (Optional)
- You can customise how People Detection works to better suit your needs. Go to the settings in the Magnifier app and adjust features like measurement units (feet or meters), voice feedback, and detection mode (whether it continuously updates or only on request).
This feature stands as a transformative tool for individuals with visual impairments, significantly enhancing their awareness of their surroundings. It plays a crucial role in helping them navigate both familiar and unfamiliar spaces with a higher degree of safety.
By following the outlined steps, users can leverage People Detection to gain a more profound confidence and a better understanding of the environment around them, making everyday tasks more manageable and reducing the stress associated with navigating challenging spaces. This technology not only empowers them with greater independence but also enriches their interaction with the world, making it a vital addition to their toolkit for navigating life with visual impairments.