How to turn off the iOS 17 and macOS Sonoma FaceTime reactions

Apple's iOS 17 and macOS Sonoma introduced a video call feature called FaceTime Reactions. These animated effects, triggered by hand gestures during a call, add a touch of whimsy to virtual interactions. 

However, they can inadvertently create awkward and uncomfortable moments in more serious settings, like teletherapy sessions. Healthcare professionals can disable these reactions to avoid uncomfortable situations. 

In the news: iOS 17 update disrupts teletherapy sessions

Understanding FaceTime Reactions

FaceTime Reactions were introduced as part of iOS 17 and macOS Sonoma, and they offer a range of animated effects, from speech bubbles with thumbs-up and thumbs-down icons to floating balloons, confetti, and even stormy rain conditions. These reactions are designed to allow users to express themselves with an enhanced visual representation, making conversations more engaging and entertaining.

How to Disable FaceTime Reactions

You can disable FaceTime Reactions to ensure that you have control over these animated effects. This feature only applies to your camera feed.

On iOS 17:

1. Open FaceTime.
2. Access the Control Center by swiping down from the top-right of the screen for Face ID devices or swiping up from the bottom for Touch ID models.
3. Tap on "Effects," which features a camera icon and shows the word "Reactions."
4. Select "Reactions" to disable the feature.

On macOS Sonoma:

1. Open FaceTime.
2. Click the Video menu in the menu bar, represented by a green and white camera icon.
3. Click "Reactions" to turn them off.

FaceTime Reactions are a problem in telehealth settings

FaceTime Reactions can be a lot of fun, but they can turn a well-intentioned conversation into an uncomfortable situation, particularly in teletherapy. 

Imagine discussing a profoundly personal or traumatic experience and, unintentionally, performing a thumbs-up gesture that triggers fireworks or other light-hearted reactions (this actually happened).

While FaceTime Reactions can enhance casual conversations, they might inadvertently disrupt the flow of telehealth sessions. To maintain professionalism in online interactions, users need control over the tone and appropriateness of their video calls, especially in sensitive contexts like therapy sessions.

Their impact on teletherapy sessions

Maintaining a therapeutic environment is crucial for the success of teletherapy sessions. FaceTime Reactions can inadvertently affect the dynamics of teletherapy in the following ways:

1. Distraction: The sudden appearance of animated effects can be highly distracting. In teletherapy, where deep concentration and emotional connection are paramount, such distractions can hinder the session's effectiveness. 
2. Inappropriate responses: When discussing personal traumas or serious emotional issues, the last thing you want is to trigger a thumbs-up or confetti animation. It can send the wrong message and lead to discomfort for both the therapist and the client.
3. Loss of professionalism: Teletherapy sessions should maintain a level of professionalism akin to in-person therapy. FaceTime Reactions can compromise this professionalism, disrupting a safe and therapeutic space.
4. Trust issues: Clients may feel their therapist is not taking the session seriously if fun animations keep appearing during discussions. This can erode trust, which is a cornerstone of successful therapy.
5. Privacy concerns: Animated effects may inadvertently reveal personal information about the therapist or client, potentially violating privacy and confidentiality standards.