Google recently announced new accessibility features for Android phones on World Accessibility Awareness Day. These features aim to make technology more inclusive for individuals with disabilities.
One of the new features is an AI-powered image caption tool to assist individuals with low vision. This tool provides detailed descriptions of images and objects to help users better understand their surroundings. Google also introduced an easier way to locate objects using the Lookout tool on Android phones. This tool allows users to identify objects in their immediate vicinity by selecting from categories such as bathrooms, seats, and tables. Additionally, Lookout now offers AI-generated captions for photos taken within the app.
Another highlight is the “Look to Speak” feature, which allows users to communicate by simply looking at emojis and photos to trigger pre-selected phrases. This feature is beneficial for individuals with cognitive challenges, literacy-related issues, and language barriers.
Google has also enhanced accessibility information on Google Maps by providing details on the accessibility of over 50 million locations. The accessibility icon in the app offers information on the accessibility of various places, making it easier for users to navigate their surroundings. This feature is now available on desktop as well, in addition to Android and iOS devices.
For individuals with low vision or blindness, Google Maps now offers improved walking directions using the Lens feature, which reads out loud the names and categories of nearby places. The app provides voice guidance to ensure users are on the right path and alerts them of busy intersections.
Furthermore, Google Maps now displays information about locations that support Auracast technology, which transmits audio to hearing devices. This feature benefits individuals with compatible Bluetooth headsets when visiting venues like auditoriums, gyms, and theaters.
Lastly, Google has improved the Sound Notifications feature, which alerts users to sounds such as smoke alarms and doorbells. The feature now has a better setup process, allows users to browse sound events, and lets them save custom sounds for their home appliances.
Overall, these new accessibility features from Google aim to make technology more inclusive and user-friendly for individuals with disabilities. By incorporating AI technology and enhancing accessibility information on Google Maps, Google is taking a step towards creating a more accessible digital environment for all users.
Article Source
https://lifehacker.com/tech/the-best-new-google-accessibility-features
