A11y Updates: Windows, Firefox, and Apple
We’re always thrilled to hear about technology companies updating their products specifically for accessibility. Not only does improved technology enhance experiences for people with disabilities, but these updates move the needle further toward progress. Let’s hope other companies and organizations follow suit because everyone benefits from accessibility. Here are some of the highlights from the […]
Assistive Technology Focus: Braille Devices
One of the best things about being in the digital accessibility field is learning about the innovative tools that give users with disabilities the ability to access and understand content they otherwise could not experience. Assistive technology (AT) allows folks with disabilities to access computers, electronic devices and the web using additional or alternative input […]
A11y Spotlight: Neil Squire Society
Helping people with disabilities gain confidence and independence through the computer When Bill Cameron’s cousin, Neil Squire, was in a car accident that left him unable to move his leg or arms or to speak, Bill was determined to find a way to help Neil communicate. This determination eventually led to the Neil Squire Society, […]
Assistive Technology Focus: Keyboard
Imagine not being able to use a mouse or touchpad to use your computer. Folks with motor disabilities, vision issues–including blindness– or even a broken hand cannot use a mouse to point to items on the screen, click on check-boxes, or “right click.” This is where the trusty keyboard comes in. Considering that early computers […]
Gears 5: A Video Game Built for Accessibility
The Vancouver-based game developer, Coalition Studio, developed their new game, Gears 5 with loads of accessibility features–something many video games lack. New features include: Coalition Studio’s Reasoning How did Coalition Studio decide on these improvements? User-testing with folks with an array of disabilities and gaming preferences–seems like the obvious answer, but there are many products […]
Assistive Technology Focus: Captioning, Transcripts and Audio Descriptions
I love captioning. I realized that I understand content, easily retain information and enjoy my viewing experiences more when I watch videos, TV and movies with the text right on my screen. Plus, I rarely need to backtrack to figure out what a character in a movie or show said! This is an example of […]
Assistive Technology Focus: Screen Readers
…the Internet can mean many things to people with a disability: a luxury, a necessity, a way to participate in the information society, a way to gain access to more information than was previously available, or only one of the many ways of accessing information. It is also seen as a technology which may potentially […]
Accessible Video Conferencing While Social Distancing & Working From Home
To date, most states in the U.S. have some type of “stay at home” or “shelter in place” order to prevent further spread of COVID-19. Many are relying on video conferencing tools to socialize and stay connected to friends and family. These video conferencing tools have become even more important for the almost 30% of […]
LEGO’s Commitment to Learning Through Play for the Visually Impaired
Staying true to their commitment to redefining play and reimagining learning, the LEGO Foundation and LEGO Group are taking steps to ensure that LEGOs can be experienced by all children, especially those who are visually impaired. In August, LEGO debuted its first audio and Braille building instructions, a free service that gives visually impaired people […]
Accessibility Tools with Voice Assistant Amazon Alexa, Amazon Echo, and Amazon Dot
Popular Voice Assistant product Amazon Alexa includes several useful features for users with accessibility needs related to vision, hearing, mobility, and speech. Included in both app and the physical device, Alexa can help support users by not only controlling their appliances, but help them navigate and interract with their devices, too. Tools offered by Alexa […]