Use AssistiveTouch for Physical Button Replacement on iPhone (iOS 18 Guide)

If your iPhone’s side or home button isn’t working properly, or you simply prefer touch-based control, iOS 18’s AssistiveTouch feature lets you replace every hardware button with on-screen gestures. Here’s how to enable and customize it for smooth navigation — no physical buttons needed.

1. Enable AssistiveTouch

Go to Settings → Accessibility → Touch → AssistiveTouch and toggle it ON.

Once activated, a floating on-screen button appears — this gives you instant access to essential functions like Home, Siri, and Control Center.

📘 Related: Learn about basic iPhone setup and accessibility tools at OnePlus iPhone Hub.

2. Customize the AssistiveTouch Menu

Tap Customize Top Level Menu to add or rearrange shortcuts such as:

  • Home – Simulates the physical Home button.
  • Volume Up/Down – Adjusts sound without pressing buttons.
  • Siri – Activates voice assistant instantly.
  • Lock Screen – Locks your iPhone with one tap.

You can add up to eight custom icons or remove unused ones for a cleaner layout.

💡 For fine-tuning screen gestures and accessibility appearance, check Display Customization.

3. Create Custom Gestures

Under AssistiveTouch → Create New Gesture, record personalized swipes or taps. This is useful if certain apps require repeated movements or specific multi-touch interactions.

Example: Record a quick two-finger zoom gesture to use it with one tap later.

4. Use AssistiveTouch for Navigation

Tap the floating AssistiveTouch button → select Device → to access volume, rotate screen, or mute functions.

To simulate a press-and-hold, tap and hold a menu option until it executes the action — helpful for restarting your iPhone without physical buttons.

5. Turn Off or Move the AssistiveTouch Button

To temporarily disable it, say “Hey Siri, turn off AssistiveTouch.” To move it, drag the button to any edge of the screen where it feels least intrusive.

🧩 Learn more about gesture controls and accessibility shortcuts in Screen Tools.

OnePlus Tip

AssistiveTouch isn’t just a backup — it’s a full navigation system. Combine it with Voice Control and Guided Access for a complete hands-free, button-free experience on iOS 18.

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