Google is taking significant steps towards improving accessibility on its platforms by rolling out several new features for Android and ChromeOS. These updates, announced on Global Accessibility Awareness Day, aim to provide enhanced accessibility options for individuals with disabilities.
One of the key features introduced by Google is Project Gameface, which is now available on Android. Gameface is software that enables users to navigate a computer user interface using head movement and facial gestures. Originally designed to assist individuals with disabilities in playing video games, Gameface can now be used to control smartphones. The software supports 52 different facial gestures that can be assigned to specific functions. For example, looking to the left can be used to select items on the screen, while raising your eyebrows can bring you back to the home screen. Users can also adjust the sensitivity of the function to determine how prominent a gesture needs to be to register an input. Project Gameface is open-source and can be downloaded from Github.
In addition to Project Gameface, Google has introduced other notable accessibility features. The Lookout app now includes a new Find mode that helps blind individuals locate real-world objects within seven different categories. By using the smartphone’s rear camera, Lookout’s artificial intelligence can determine the direction and distance of an object or exit. This feature is designed to assist individuals in navigating their surroundings more effectively. Google Maps has also undergone upgrades to provide more detailed information about the surrounding area. The app now provides the names of nearby places and informs users about the distance they need to travel to reach their destination.
Another accessibility improvement comes in the form of Android’s Look to Speak. This feature now includes a text-free mode, which allows users to communicate with the app’s speech function by selecting emojis, symbols, and images. This mode enables individuals with speech disabilities to express themselves more easily. Additionally, Chromebooks have received accessibility updates. Users now have the option to increase the size of the mouse cursor for better visibility, and the screen magnifier tool follows along with the words while reading.
Google’s commitment to accessibility extends beyond these major updates. For example, Google Maps on desktop now indicates wheelchair-accessible entrances, making it easier for individuals with mobility challenges to navigate their surroundings. All the mentioned features are already available, except for the Chromebook changes, which will be rolled out in the coming weeks.
It’s important to note that Google is not the only tech giant focusing on accessibility advancements. Apple has also revealed multiple accessibility features for its hardware, including Eye Tracking, Vocal Shortcuts, and Vehicle Motion Cues. Although these features are not yet available, they are expected to be released as part of future updates to iOS, VisionOS, and macOS.
In conclusion, Google’s new accessibility-focused features demonstrate the company’s commitment to making its platforms more inclusive for individuals with disabilities. The introduction of Project Gameface on Android provides a new way for users to control their smartphones using head movements and facial gestures. Other updates, such as the Find mode in Lookout, enhanced details in Google Maps, and the text-free mode in Look to Speak, aim to assist individuals with specific accessibility needs. With Apple also investing in accessibility features, it is clear that tech giants are recognizing the importance of inclusivity and are working towards creating a more accessible digital environment for all users.
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