Head movements to be included in iOS7

Apple has released a second version of its beta for iOS 7 and the operating system has learned a few new tricks. One of the most head-turning (pun very intended) is that users can now control certain parts of the user interface by simply tilting their heads certain directions. Yes, the iPhone or iPad watches you.The feature comes as part of iOS’s built-in accessibility package, seemingly as an option for those with limited body movement to control their devices without actually touching them. It uses the front-facing FaceTime camera to detect the movements, and then the device reacts accordingly.That said, it took an agonizing hour of testing before I was finally able to figure out how it works, as there isn’t really much as far as instruction goes. It is an interesting interface idea but it’s not for everyone, in more ways than one: It takes over the traditional touch controls and basically disables them. In addition, it takes some time to navigate. For some, it’s not a problem, but those expecting the relatively quick action that they’re used to from iOS will not have a good time.Developers that make apps for the disabled or even those that just want to make their apps more friendly to those that have problems with touch devices, it’s an intriguing option. Who knows, maybe the gestures the camera-based gestures will become a standard part of a future version of iOS.Like the rest of the iOS 7 beta, it’s not something for those who are simply curious about the pre-release operating system. It took me half of Wednesday to figure out how to turn the feature off, and in that time I couldn’t answer calls, texts, or invitesThe idea of controlling an iPhone or iPad with a gesture may not be too farfetched. With a simple quick jerk of the head to the left or right, users could be able to get to the home page, select apps, or control the device's volume.The feature is apparently an accessibility option, which means it would have to be turned on by the user. Typically accessibility options are for people with disabilities who are hearing, vision, or physically impaired. It appears the feature can also be customized for each individual user.For iOS 7, Apple said it dramatically redesigned the look and feel of the user interface. Everything has been revamped, the company said, including icons, buttons, and color schemes. The screen is said to take on a 3D appearance and will have a swipe feature at the bottom of the device for quick access to brightness, volume, airplane mode, Bluetooth, do not disturb, and flashlight.An initial beta of iOS 7 was released to developers a couple of weeks ago and asecond beta was released on Monday. The software requires developers to sign a privacy agreement, but that hasn't stopped numerous developers and some blogs from posting extensive hands-on previews of the new OS.Apple has not provided an exact date for the final iOS 7 release, short of this fall, when the company is also expected to introduce its next iPhone.A left tilt of the head can be used to swipe through screen menu options, or users can choose to use head movements to activate a number of other functions, including the home button, to start Siri, open the Notification Center or App Switcher, or change the volume.The feature is called Switches and can be activiated in the Switch control option, which is in the accessibility section of Apple's iOS7.When the option is enabled, Switch Control will scroll through onscreen menus and apps, and users only need to move their head to the left to select their choice.A rightward head movement would take users back to the home screen, or the beginning of the scrollable results.Users can also customise head moveemnts to stand for different actions, such as a finger tap or to open various functions. The iOS7 Actions menu contains the full list of options that can be controlled suing head movements.The tool is part of the scond beta version of Apple's latest software, which was revealed at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June. The software will go on sale to the public this autumn.Apple's head movement technology is part of a focus on hands-free controls from technology companies. Apple's Siri app is voice activated, while Samsung's Galaxy S4 pauses when the user's eyes look away from a video and Google has patented an eye-tracking system that would allow users to activate Google Glass with a glance. Its more of head(movement) phone than a touch phone :P