This article provides tips for troubleshooting common issues with Guided Access on your QuickTalker Freestyle device. Guided Access is an excellent accessibility setting designed to keep users focused within the designated AAC application during use. While this feature offers significant benefits, occasional issues may arise that can disrupt its functionality. This guide aims to help you identify and resolve these challenges effectively.

Quick Navigation:

• Confirming you are in Guided Access
• How to Exit Guided Access Normally
• I Can’t Exit Guided Access
• I Can’t Start Guided Access
• Guided Access Turns Off Unexpectedly
• I Can’t Access Certain Areas of the Screen
• Next Steps

To ensure Guided Access is appropriately configured, follow these steps:

Confirming you are in Guided Access

1. Go to Settings > Accessibility > Guided Access and ensure it’s turned ON
2. Open any app and triple-press the Top Button (or Home Button on the  Standard QuickTalker Freestyle). If the Guided Access menu appears, it’s enabled.
3. Tap Start, then try exiting the app. If you see a “Guided Access is enabled” message, it’s working.

How to Exit Guided Access Normally

To exit Guided Access, follow these steps:

1. While in-app, Triple-click the Home/Side button.
2. Enter your Guided Access passcode when prompted.
3. Tap End in the top left corner.

If you forget the passcode, wait until the device runs out of battery and turns off. Once recharged, Guided Access should be disabled upon restart.

I Can’t Exit Guided Access

If triple-clicking the button does not work, try these solutions:

Force Restart the Device

A force restart can resolve many Guided Access issues. Follow this guide: How to perform a force restart of the QuickTalker Freestyle.

Factory Reset the Device (Last Resort)

A factory reset will erase all data that is not backed up. Only use this option as a last resort. Follow Apple’s recovery mode instructions: Apple Recovery Mode Guide.

I Can’t Start Guided Access

If Guided Access does not activate when you triple-click the button, try the following solutions:

Restart the QuickTalker Freestyle

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Navigate to General > Shut Down.
3. Wait 15 seconds, then press and hold the Wake button to restart the device.

Update iOS

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Go to General > Software Update.
3. If an update is available, connect to Wi-Fi and install it.

Test Hardware

Repeatedly press the Sleep and Home buttons. If the device does not respond, the hardware may be damaged. Contact ableCARE for assistance.

Guided Access Turns Off Unexpectedly

Some users may accidentally exit Guided Access. Try these solutions:

Change the Passcode

Use a complex passcode to prevent easy guessing. Avoid using simple codes like 1234 or birthdays.

Disable Hardware Buttons

1. Start a Guided Access session.
2. Triple-click the Side/Home button.
3. Tap Options and toggle off the Volume and Sleep/Wake buttons.

I Can’t Access Certain Areas of the Screen

If specific parts of the screen are unresponsive in Guided Access, check for disabled areas:

Adjust Guided Access Settings

1. Start a Guided Access session.
2. Triple-click the Side/Home button.
3. If any gray areas appear, these are disabled. Tap Options and adjust settings.

Next Steps

If you have any additional questions, please contact the ableCARE Product Success Team for further assistance.