AssistiveTouch / Interaction Assistants

Provides on-screen controls and simplified gestures to support users with limited motor precision.

What does this setting do?

AssistiveTouch offers an on-screen control menu that replaces physical buttons and complex gestures. Users can access actions such as Home, volume controls, device lock, screenshots or custom gestures directly from a floating menu. On Android, similar features exist (e.g. “Assistant menu” or “Interaction helpers”), though they do not fully match the capabilities of Apple’s AssistiveTouch.

Instructions for different systems

Version: iOS 15+

Open Settings > Accessibility > Touch > AssistiveTouch. Turn on AssistiveTouch. A floating on-screen button appears. Tap it to access functions such as Home, Siri, volume controls, gestures, and other actions. Under Customize Top Level Menu, you can choose which actions are shown in the menu.

Note: AssistiveTouch is intended for users who have difficulty using hardware buttons or complex gestures.

Version: Varies by device

Android does not provide an AssistiveTouch feature like iOS. On stock Android devices (such as Pixel), the closest alternative is the Accessibility Menu.

Open Settings > Accessibility > Accessibility Menu and turn it on. A floating on-screen menu appears with quick actions such as Back, Home, volume controls, or screenshots.

Note: On Samsung devices, this feature is usually called Assistant menu and can be found under Settings > Accessibility > Interaction and dexterity. Names and available options vary by manufacturer.

Für dieses Betriebssystem ist keine Anleitung verfügbar.

Often mentioned in relation to the following conditions:

Tremor – Minor hand tremors affecting precise touchscreen or mouse interactions.
Arthrosis – Joint stiffness causing difficulty with fine motor control or repeated gestures.
Reduced Motor Precision – Slower or less precise hand movement, often age-related or due to mild neurological changes.
Age-related Motor Changes – Slower, less precise movements, especially with touch interaction.
ADHD – Attention-deficit / hyperactivity-related difficulties such as distractibility, impulsivity, or sensitivity to visual motion.
Parkinson's Disease – Neurological condition with tremor, muscle stiffness and slowed movements that make fine motor interactions more difficult.

Commonly used for the following difficulties:

Reduced Fine Motor Precision

Users with limited precision may find small touch targets difficult. Larger controls and assistive touch features improve accuracy.

Slow or Inaccurate Touch Input

Slow or unsteady hand movements can cause mis-taps. Gestural assistance, touch accommodations and extended press durations help reduce errors.

Difficulty with Repetitive Gestures

Repeated gestures like swiping or tapping can be tiring or painful. Gesture alternatives or voice control reduce physical strain.