Apple’s New Software Updates and Service, SignTime.
Apple Inc. has recently announced new software updates that are designed to enhance the experience for people with mobility, vision, hearing, and cognitive disabilities. These updates, all slated to be available later this year, are being released across multiple Apple devices. People with limb differences will be able to navigate Apple Watch using AssistiveTouch; iPad […]
Micro-volunteering in Accessibility: Be My Eyes
Hans Jørgen Wiberg, a visually impaired furniture craftsman, started Be My Eyes in search of becoming more independent. Be My Eyes is a free app that connects blind and low-vision people seeking visual assistance with a network of volunteers via video calls. How it works: A visually impaired person needs visual assistance with a task. […]
A11Y Updates: Samsung
Samsung has been providing various accessibility features within their TVs in years past, but at this year’s First Look TV event and CES (Consumer Electronic Show) they announced even more updates to further contribute to the accessibility of Samsung products. All 2021 QLED and Neo QLED TV models will offer users the option to reposition […]
AbiliTrek is building a database for travelers with disabilities, projected $17 billion market
New website AbiliTrek hopes to serve travelers with disabilities by providing a database of places to stay with accessible accommodations. “There is a big data gap that we’re trying to fill,” said David Wandke, CEO and founder of AbiliTrek based in Bellingham, Washington. While commenting on the initial idea for Abilitrek, David shares that on […]
Advocates demand Lyft provide similar ride share accessibility accommodations
Toronto disability advocates are pushing Lyft match wheelchair ride share accessibility services that Uber recently rolled out. “Whether it’s Uber or a competitor, looking hard at accessibility is a vital component for any business. Regardless of who you are, you should not be restricted from a service” says Maayan Ziv, founder of accessibility-based technology firm […]
Uber has wheelchair friendly options for disabled passengers, it may not be enough
Uber has improved its accessibility options with the adoption of its Wheelchair friendly UberWAV service, available in 27 cities and counting. Beginning in January 2016, Uber began its UberWAV program (WAV for wheelchair accessible vehicle) in Toronto. The company began to offer wheelchair accessible vehicles in limited locations by partnering with paratransit agencies, and Uber […]
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 […]
Google to remove Andriod apps that misuse Accessibility features
Popular Android applications like LastPass and McAfee might be removed from the Google Play store because of a change in policy. Though at first glance they seem to work as intended, these applications utilize features from the Google Accessibility Services API, originally built to allow software developers to easily incorporate Accessibility affordances into their apps. […]
Airbnb to purchase Accessible Hospitality startup Accomable
Accessibility hospitality service Accomable has been acquired by Airbnb. Accomable provides a similar service but with a focus on accessible and disability-accommodating spaces, covering over 60 countries. Accomable will phase out service and key team members will transition into the Airbnb product team, expanding their service to be more inclusive and accessible. As part of the […]
Google uses Local Guides to tell you if locations are Wheelchair Accessible
Google Maps started displaying wheelchair accessibility data for locations at the end of 2016, but with a recent update to their Local Guides program they’re moving to a more holistic approach. By engaging with their Local Guides program you can help Google curate their search results to provide more detail on locations and identify specific accessibility […]