To get rid of the white arrow on iPhone running on iOS 17, you’ll need to access the settings on your device, navigate to the ‘Accessibility’ section, and disable the ‘Assistive Touch’ feature. This should remove the white arrow from your screen, leaving you with an unobstructed view.
After completing this action, the white arrow, which is actually the Assistive Touch button, will no longer be displayed on your iPhone’s screen. Your iPhone’s interface will return to its default state without the on-screen button.
You can also check out this video about how to remove the white arrow on your iPhone for more on this subject.
Introduction
Are you tired of that pesky white arrow on your iPhone screen? You know, the one that just seems to float around, getting in the way of your Instagram scrolling and YouTube binge-watching? Well, you’re not alone. That white arrow is actually called the Assistive Touch button, and while it’s a handy tool for those with difficulty using the traditional buttons, it can be an eyesore for others. Whether you’ve turned it on by accident or you’re just over it, getting rid of the white arrow on your iPhone is a simple process.
This topic is crucial because an uncluttered screen is important for seamless interaction with your device. Plus, let’s face it, we all want our iPhones looking sharp and clean, right? This white arrow might have been useful at some point, but if you no longer need it, it’s time to say goodbye. This guide is relevant to all iPhone users on iOS 17 who want to learn how to disable the Assistive Touch feature and get their screens back to their pristine state.
Step by Step Tutorial on Removing the White Arrow on iPhone
Before we dive into the steps, it’s essential to understand that following these instructions will help you turn off the Assistive Touch feature. Doing so will remove the white arrow, which serves as a quick access button to various iPhone functions.
Step 1: Open Settings
Navigate to the Settings app on your iPhone.
Opening the Settings is the first action because it’s the gateway to all customizable features on your iPhone. You can find the Settings app on your home screen, usually represented by a gear icon.
Step 2: Go to Accessibility
Scroll down and tap on the ‘Accessibility’ option within the Settings menu.
The Accessibility section is where Apple consolidates all settings that make the iPhone easier to use for those with various disabilities or physical challenges.
Step 3: Select Touch
Within the Accessibility settings, find and tap on the ‘Touch’ option.
The Touch section manages all touch-related settings, including the Assistive Touch feature, which is the source of the white arrow.
Step 4: Toggle Off Assistive Touch
Finally, switch off the ‘Assistive Touch’ toggle.
Turning off Assistive Touch will immediately remove the white arrow from the screen. Keep in mind that this will also disable the quick access menu that comes with it.
Pros
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Clutter-free Screen | A clutter-free screen allows for better visibility and interaction with your iPhone without any distractions. |
| Increased Screen Real Estate | Without the white arrow, you regain valuable screen space, making for a more enjoyable viewing experience. |
| Enhanced Aesthetics | Removing the white arrow enhances the overall aesthetic of your iPhone’s interface, aligning with the sleek design that Apple is known for. |
Cons
| Drawback | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Loss of Quick Access | Disabling Assistive Touch means losing out on the handy quick access menu to certain features and settings. |
| Inconvenience for Users with Disabilities | For users who rely on Assistive Touch due to physical limitations, removing it may hinder their ability to navigate their iPhone effectively. |
| Potential Accidental Activation | If you’re trying to disable the white arrow without understanding its function, you might accidentally activate other settings in the Accessibility menu. |
Additional Information
While removing the white arrow, or the Assistive Touch button, may seem like a straightforward task, there’s a bit more to it than meets the eye. Assistive Touch is designed to help users with physical limitations by providing an on-screen button to access various iPhone functionalities. So, it’s important to consider whether you might need this feature in the future before turning it off. If you find that you do need it again, simply reverse the steps above to re-enable Assistive Touch.
Also, keep in mind that there are other ways to customize Assistive Touch if you still need some of its functionality but want to minimize its intrusion. You can adjust its opacity, place it in a less obtrusive spot on your screen, or even customize the menu to include only the features you use most. iOS 17 is all about personalization, after all.
Summary
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Tap on the ‘Accessibility’ option.
- Select the ‘Touch’ setting.
- Toggle off the ‘Assistive Touch’ feature to remove the white arrow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the white arrow on my iPhone screen?
The white arrow is the Assistive Touch button, a feature that provides quick access to various iPhone functions for users with difficulty using physical buttons.
Will I lose any functionality by turning off Assistive Touch?
Disabling Assistive Touch will remove the on-screen menu, which includes shortcuts to various features. However, you can still access all functions through the traditional methods.
Can I customize Assistive Touch instead of turning it off?
Absolutely! You can adjust the opacity, change its location on the screen, and customize the menu to fit your needs better.
Is it possible to turn Assistive Touch back on after disabling it?
Yes, simply follow the steps above in reverse to re-enable Assistive Touch if you need it again.
Will disabling Assistive Touch affect other accessibility settings?
Turning off Assistive Touch does not affect other accessibility settings, but be cautious when navigating the Accessibility menu to avoid changing settings unintentionally.
Conclusion
In conclusion, removing the white arrow on your iPhone running iOS 17 is a quick and simple process that can help declutter your screen, giving you back full control over your device’s aesthetics and functionality. Whether you’re looking to streamline your iPhone’s interface, improve screen visibility, or simply get rid of an unnecessary distraction, disabling the Assistive Touch feature is the way to go.
Remember, iPhone’s settings are all about flexibility and customization, so don’t be afraid to explore and adjust your device to suit your personal preferences.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.