As part of Global Accessibility Awareness Day, Apple announced a series of new accessibility features coming to iPhone soon. One of those features is the new iPhone background noise. If you are bothered by too many external stimuli due to disturbing noises, this function can help you to relax or improve your focus.
Background noise coming soon on iPhone
For a few years, Apple has been offering ambient sounds on the HomePod, with which you can hear the sounds of the ocean or a rain shower, for example. The new background noise on the iPhone is something similar. You can choose from a total of six background sounds (balanced noise, bright noise, dark noise, ocean, rain and running water), which Apple says help you focus, relax and reduce distractions. Apple wants to support neurodiversity with this.
The sounds mask annoying real-world background noises, such as drill noises, keyboard noises from a fanatic colleague and other similar sounds that can cause distraction or stimuli. With the new function you can also choose to have the background sounds played when you listen to music or other media on your iPhone. The background sounds are then mixed with other audio or played in the background. Except for media, this also applies to other system sounds.
It is not yet known when Apple will release the feature. Apple promises that the new accessibility features will be available later this year, including this background noise. This may be part of iOS 15, with which Apple has already given a preview. Another function that you will see later is controlling the Apple Watch with hand gestures thanks to AssistiveTouch.