New Mac models can adapt to various user needs and workflows. Thanks to the advanced accessibility features baked right into the system, those with different abilities should be able to operate their Macs just fine. People with limited vision, in particular, may appreciate the various zoom features on macOS, which enlarge chosen on-screen elements. To zoom on your Mac, follow the steps we've listed in this guide.

What does Accessibility Zoom on macOS do?

Accessibility Zoom is one of the advanced ways to zoom on Mac. It allows a person with limited vision to easily and comfortably enlarge specific elements on macOS Sonoma and earlier versions. You can set your cursor to become a magnifying glass that zooms wherever you place it. Alternatively, you can toggle zoom when you need it through the keyboard shortcuts previewed below. Furthermore, you can set it to zoom in on text if that's what you're looking for. The options are endless!

How to enable and use Accessibility Zoom on Mac

To activate and use Accessibility Zoom, follow the steps we've listed below:

1. Launch the built-in System Settings app.
2. Head to the Accessibility section.
3. Click on Zoom.

   

4. Enable the toggles that match your workflow and needs. The first toggle relies on keyboard input, while the other two rely primarily on gestures.

   

5. If you're connected to a secondary display, you can take advantage of that by clicking Choose Display.

   

6. To adjust the Appearance, Controls, Follow Focus, and other advanced settings, click on Advanced.

   

7. When you're done adjusting, tap the OK button.

   

8. To enlarge the text when your cursor hovers over it, enable the Hover Text toggle.

   

9. You can now zoom on certain elements and/or text present on your Mac's screen using the method(s) you've enabled.

   

How to use basic zoom on Mac

If you don't need the advanced options of Accessibility Zoom, then macOS also allows you to zoom in and out in a simpler manner. The basic zoom feature doesn't require enabling any toggles, but it only works in very specific apps, such as Safari and Photos. Through it, you can zoom in and out on webpages, photos, and more. To use basic zoom features in a compatible app, follow the steps below:

1. To zoom in, hold the Command button then hit +. You can alternatively place two fingers on the trackpad and move them apart.
2. To zoom out, hold the Command button then press -. Alternatively, you can pinch with two fingers on the trackpad.

The bottom line: Apple operating systems are quite versatile

Apple takes accessibility features very seriously when it comes to its devices. Users can pretty much control Macs, iPads, and iPhones completely using their voices, without needing to click a single button. The diverse zoom tools on macOS are yet another solid example of that. These features enable people with limited abilities to take full advantage of Apple devices without needing anyone's assistance.