HOT APPS
HOT APPS AND WEBSITES By Jen Barling
APPLE PREVIEWS SOFTWARE UPDATES DESIGNED FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES Apple recently announced next-generation technologies designed for people with mobility, vision, hearing, and cognitive disabilities. Later this year, with software updates across all of Apple’s operating systems, people with limb differences will be able to navigate Apple Watch using AssistiveTouch; iPad will support third-party eye-tracking hardware for easier control; and for blind and low vision communities, Apple’s VoiceOver screen reader will get even smarter using on-device intelligence to explore objects within images. In support of neurodiversity, Apple is introducing new background sounds to help minimize distractions, and for those who are deaf or hard of hearing, Made for iPhone (MFi) will soon support new bi-directional hearing aids. Apple is also launching a new service called SignTime. This enables customers to communicate with AppleCare and Retail Customer Care by using sign language. Customers visiting Apple Store locations can also use SignTime to remotely access a sign language interpreter without booking ahead of time. SignTime will initially launch in the US, UK, and France, with plans to expand to additional countries in the future. CLICK HERE to access the APPLE SOFTWARE UPDATE LINK
U.S. ACCESS BOARD CELEBRATES GLOBAL ACCESSIBILITY AWARENESS DAY In May, the U.S. Access Board celebrated the tenth annual Global Accessibility Awareness Day by promoting discussion and learning about digital access and inclusion for people with disabilities. The Access Board is an independent federal agency that promotes equality for people with disabilities through leadership in accessible design and the development of accessibility guidelines including access to information and communication technology (ICT). The Board also issues guidelines and standards for the built environment, outdoor sites, transportation, and medical diagnostic equipment. The Board has recently held events focused on accessibility and new technologies such as inclusive design of autonomous vehicles (AVs) and self-service transaction machines (SSTMs) where presenters discussed usability issues, accessibility barriers, and industry research to improve access to SSTMs. The Board conducts free monthly webinars through its partnership with the ADA National Network. Webinars cover accessibility in the built environment as well as accessibility of information and communication technology. Upcoming webinars are posted on the Board’s Webinars & Training webpage. CLICK HERE to access the U.S. ACCESS BOARD LINK
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THE MAGAZINE FOR THE ASSOCIATION OF CONSULTANTS IN ACCESS AUSTRALIA
