Apple's next iOS update will reportedly feature a new mode which will allow moviegoers the capability to dim screens and mute audio during screenings.
As AppleInsider reports, the first beta release of iOS 10.3 may feature a ‘Theatre mode.’ Reportedly, the setting will be available through a "popcorn-shaped" icon in the Control Center when the software update is supposedly released on January 10.
Theatre Mode will provide iPhone users with limited access to their device in a way that, supposedly, won't distract others in attendance. The exact features of the app haven’t been specified but it is being speculated that users may be able to disable system sounds and haptic feedback, block incoming calls and messages, and reduce initial screen brightness during a movie. Texting will still be allowed.
Last year, AMC Theatres enlisted a strict no-texting policy, after briefly considering an option of setting aside certain screenings where viewers would be allowed to text and use their phones.
Most of the responses to the new rumoured update have been in protest of it:
Here's another idea: JUST TURN YOUR PHONE OFF FOR TWO HOURS AND WATCH THE MOVIE 📵 https://t.co/q9eMrik1CW
— Alamo Drafthouse NYC (@AlamoNYC) January 3, 2017
Worst. Idea. Ever.
Need to use your phone?! LEAVE & USE IT. We made it thru DECADES of cinema without phones.https://t.co/fegLVj2VPO
— Kevin McCarthy (@KevinMcCarthyTV) January 5, 2017
My iPhone already has a "theater mode" but it's called "airplane mode" because I'm going on a movie journey..
— Brian Formo (@BrianFormo) January 4, 2017
The only reason to have a theater mode is to be able to use a movie theater app to report disturbances. @SFBIO https://t.co/jZjiVRsCPb
— MattLive (@mattlivese) January 5, 2017
@SamuelAAdams I admire your optimism but remain convinced that someone rude enough to use a phone in a theater wouldn't bother w movie mode
— Max Weiss (@maxthegirl) January 5, 2017
I hope the iPhone theater mode is just an app that tells people who can't stay off their phones to sit behind me.
— Neil S. Bulk (@nsbulk) January 4, 2017
The idea of a "theater mode" for smartphones terrifies me: https://t.co/OoCEv9mP9r
— Matt Singer (@mattsinger) January 4, 2017