“I can’t read anything on this screen without my glasses.” That’s something I hear a lot in my library classes, and I always say: you don’t need new glasses or a new phone. Your phone already has senior-friendly phone settings that make text bigger, bolder, and easier to tap. Let’s take it one step at a time. I’ll show you iPhone first, then Android.
What these settings can do
| What you want | iPhone | Android |
|---|---|---|
| Bigger text | Settings, Accessibility, Display & Text Size, Larger Text | Settings, search for Font size, move the slider |
| Bolder text | Settings, Accessibility, Display & Text Size, Bold Text | Settings, Accessibility, Display size and text, Bold text |
| Bigger icons and items | Larger Accessibility Sizes help with text. Assistive Access has a Grid layout with bigger icons | Settings, search for Display size, move the slider |
| A simpler screen | Assistive Access, with Rows or Grid layouts | Menus vary by phone maker. Look under Accessibility |
Menu names change a bit between phone brands and software versions. If you can’t find something, use the search bar at the top of Settings.
On iPhone: make text bigger and bolder
Apple explains this in its guide to making text easier to read on iPhone. Here’s how:
- Open Settings.
- Tap Accessibility.
- Tap Display & Text Size.
- Turn on Bold Text to make letters heavier.
- Tap Larger Text and drag the slider to the right. For even bigger sizes, turn on Larger Accessibility Sizes.
You can also change the text size for just one app. Open Control Center and use the Text Size control. If you don’t see it, tap the Add button in the top-left corner, tap Add a Control, and then choose Text Size.
On iPhone: try Assistive Access for a simpler screen
Apple describes Assistive Access as an experience with more focused features and a simplified interface, which helps people with cognitive disabilities use iPhone more easily. It’s useful for anyone who wants only a few big, simple apps on the screen. You can choose how it looks:
- Rows: items are arranged in an easy-to-read list.
- Grid: items are bigger and arranged in a grid that emphasizes images and icons.
To pick a layout, open Settings, tap Accessibility, tap Assistive Access, and choose Rows or Grid. Apple says it may be easiest to set up with the help of a trusted supporter, like a family member or caregiver. Read more in Apple’s page on choosing the screen layout for Assistive Access.
On Android: font size and display size
Google’s help page on changing text and display settings says to do this:
- Open Settings.
- Search for Font size and tap it.
- Move the slider to the right to make text larger.
- Go back, search for Display size, and move that slider to make icons and other items bigger.
- To make text bolder, tap Accessibility, then Display size and text, and turn on Bold text.
You can also swipe down from the top of the screen to find Quick Settings and tap Font size. Google says you can make text up to 200 percent bigger, and that the setting doesn’t apply to some apps. On Pixel phones, look under Display & touch, then Display size and text.
Other small changes that help
- Turn up the brightness, or turn on automatic brightness
- Keep your most-used apps on the first Home screen
- Ask a family member to add important phone numbers as favorites
- Use a screen protector and a case with a good grip
- Keep your phone updated, so it stays safe and the menus match this guide
If your phone is slow or full, take a look at our guide on how to free up storage on your phone. For more help, browse our phone tips and our guides for seniors.
Frequently asked questions
Will bigger text change my photos or apps?
It changes how text looks, not your photos. Google says the font size setting doesn’t apply to some apps, so a few may still look small.
Can I undo the changes?
Yes. Go back to the same setting and move the slider or turn off the switch. Nothing is permanent.
Is Assistive Access only for people with disabilities?
Apple designed it for people with cognitive disabilities, but you can use it if you want a simpler screen. Set it up with someone you trust.
What if I can’t find the setting?
Use the search bar at the top of Settings and type the name, like “Font size.” Phone makers sometimes use different names.
Quick summary
- Make text bigger and bolder in Accessibility, or search for Font size on Android.
- Use Display size on Android, or Assistive Access on iPhone, for bigger icons and a simpler screen.
- Change one setting at a time and take your time.
Pick one setting and try it now while the steps are fresh. Menus change with updates, so check Apple’s or Google’s support page if yours looks different.
