In a statement, the company reported that it works with different groups with disabilities to develop accessibility features that have a real impact on people’s lives. Later this year, users with cognitive disabilities can use iPhone and iPad with greater ease and independence.
Help different groups
Non-speakers can type to speak during calls and conversations with “Live Speech”; and those at risk of losing their ability to speak can use “Personal Voice” to create a synthesized voice that sounds like them to connect with family and friends.
For users who are blind or have low vision, the sensing mode on the magnifying glass offers “Point and Speak,” which identifies text that users are pointing to and reads it aloud to help them interact with physical objects, such as household appliances.
“At Apple, we’ve always believed that the best technology is technology built for everyone,” said Tim Cook, the company’s CEO.
“Today, we’re excited to share amazing new features that build on our long history of making technology accessible, so everyone has the chance to create, communicate, and do what they love.”
In addition, stripped down versions of its core applications are being introduced as part of a feature called “Assistive Access.” The feature is designed to “distill apps and experiences down to their essential features to lighten the cognitive load.” That includes a combined version of Phone and FaceTime, as well as modified versions of the Messages, Camera, Photos, and Music apps that feature high-contrast buttons, large text labels, and additional accessibility tools.