The latest iPhone 8 and 8 Plus smartphones host what Apple calls a “True Tone” display. Apple says this technology “automatically adjusts white balance to match the light around you. For a better viewing experience in all kinds of environments.”

How does it work?

This clever tech first appeared in the iPad Pro, and uses light sensors to assess ambient light where you are and tweak what you see on screen to deliver a better white point.

The sensors measure the ambient light color and brightness, allowing the display to correct white point and illumination based on the lighting in your environment.

What does it do?

What’s important to understand is that this technology should make it much easier to see your iPhone screen in direct sunlight, and should make it easier to read in all lighting conditions.

How can I check what it does?

To find out how this feature is affecting what you see on your display:

• Swipe up to access Control Center and then press and hold the Brightness slider
• On the next screen you will see the brightness slider take up the full page, under which you’ll find button controls for Night Shift and True Tone.
• Tap True Tone to Off (it goes gray, rather than default blue).
• You’ll see what your display looks like without it.

In general, True Tone makes for warmer and more consistent colors and less eye strain.

How to Disable True Tone

If you don’t want to use True Tone you can disable it completely in Settings>Display & Brightness where you will find a toggle button to switch it off.