TrueDepth plays a significant role in making Face ID so effective on iPhone X series. A notable feature of Face ID is that even if you are not using the facial recognition system on your device, the TrueDepth camera is automatically activated to support attention aware features. For instance, it will dim the display when you are not looking at your smartphone. Likewise, it will lower the ringer volume on your iPhone, when you are looking at the device. But if you want to have manual control over these things, you can choose to turn off “Attention Aware” features on your iPhone X, Xs, Xs Max, and iPhone XR.
Personally, I find attention aware features very helpful as it offers more privacy. Besides, it can also help you improve the battery life of your iPhone. Anyway, you want to turn it off? Let’s find out how it’s done!
How to Turn Off Attention Aware Features on iPhone X, Xs, Xs Max, and XR
Step #1. Launch Settings app on your iPhone → Tap on General.

Step #3. Next, tap on Accessibility.

Step #4. Next, tap on Face ID & Attention.

Step #5. Turn off the switch next to Attention Aware Features.

Note: Alternately, open Settings → Face ID & Passcode → then turn off the switch next to Attention Aware Features.
That’s done! Going forward; the TrueDepth camera won’t reduce the brightness of the display and lower the ringer volume automatically. If you ever missed these neat features, return to the same settings and then turn on the switch in the end.
Signing off…
“TrueDepth” camera offers the iPhone a decisive edge over its Android counterparts. Despite their rigorous efforts, they haven’t been able to make a match with the advanced feature. Whether it’s the ability to help Face ID authenticate securely or empower Animoji to map face immaculately, it’s superior in its own right.
You’d like to take a peek at these posts as well:
- How to Speed Up Face ID on iPhone
- Add Second Face ID on iPhone
- How to Disable Face ID iPhone
- How to Clear RAM on iPhone
What do you think of Face ID? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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Jignesh Padhiyar is the co-founder of iGeeksBlog.com, who has a keen eye for news, rumors, and all the unusual stuff around Apple products. During his tight schedule, Jignesh finds some moments of respite to share side-splitting content on social media.
If attention aware is switched off on the iPhone 12 does that mean the TrueDepth camera is also deactivated? I haven’t been able to find any information on whether it is possible to deactivate the TrueDepth camera. Any help appreciated.
No, this means extra features such as auto lowering brightness or ringer volume will be disabled. It won’t affect any other capabilities of the TrueDepth camera.