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How to Add a Screenshot Shortcut to Your iPhone's AssistiveTouch Button

Published in iPhone Screenshots 3 mins read

You can easily add a screenshot shortcut to your iPhone by enabling and customizing the AssistiveTouch feature, which acts as a virtual "home button" and offers quick access to various functions, including taking screenshots. This is particularly useful for iPhones without a physical Home button or for those seeking an alternative way to capture their screen.

What is AssistiveTouch?

AssistiveTouch is an accessibility feature on iPhones and iPads that places a customizable, floating button on your screen. This button provides quick access to functions that typically require physical button presses or gestures, such as:

  • Going to the Home screen
  • Adjusting volume
  • Locking the screen
  • Accessing Notification Center or Control Center
  • Performing multi-finger gestures
  • Taking screenshots

It acts as a virtual "home button" that you can position anywhere on your screen for convenience.

Step-by-Step Guide: Adding a Screenshot Shortcut to AssistiveTouch

To add a screenshot shortcut to your iPhone's AssistiveTouch button, follow these straightforward steps:

  1. Open Settings: Tap the Settings app icon on your iPhone's Home screen.
  2. Navigate to Accessibility: Scroll down in the Settings window until you find and tap on Accessibility.
  3. Access Touch Settings: In the Accessibility menu, scroll down further and select Touch.
  4. Enable AssistiveTouch: Here, you will see AssistiveTouch. Tap on it.
  5. Turn On AssistiveTouch: Toggle the switch next to AssistiveTouch to the On position. A floating circular button will now appear on your screen.
  6. Customize Top Level Menu (Optional but Recommended):
    • Tap on Customize Top Level Menu....
    • Tap one of the existing icons (or the "plus" sign if you want to add a new one).
    • From the list of actions, scroll down and select Screenshot.
    • Tap Done (or outside the menu) to save your changes.

Now, when you tap the AssistiveTouch button on your screen, you'll see the "Screenshot" option readily available in its menu. Tapping this option will instantly capture your iPhone's screen.

Benefits of Using AssistiveTouch for Screenshots

Utilizing AssistiveTouch for screenshots offers several advantages:

  • Ease of Access: Provides a single-tap solution for taking screenshots, ideal for quick captures.
  • Physical Button Alternative: Perfect for users who find traditional button combinations (like Side button + Volume Up) challenging or for devices with worn-out physical buttons.
  • One-Handed Operation: Simplifies taking screenshots with one hand.
  • Customization: The AssistiveTouch menu can be customized with various other shortcuts, making it a versatile accessibility tool beyond just screenshots.

By following these steps, you can effectively add a convenient screenshot shortcut to your iPhone, enhancing your device's usability.