Apple Unveils Enhanced Accessibility Options for iPhone and iPad Users
Apple is rolling out new accessibility features for iPads and iPhones, aiming to address a wide range of user requirements. These features include the ability to operate your device using eye-tracking technology, create personalized shortcuts with voice commands, enjoy music with haptic feedback, and more. The company made these announcements ahead of Global Accessibility Awareness Day on Thursday.
While Apple has previously supported eye-tracking on iOS and iPadOS, it necessitated the use of external eye-tracking devices. This update marks the first time Apple has integrated native eye-tracking functionality, eliminating the need for additional hardware or accessories. The new built-in eye-tracking feature utilizes the front-facing camera to navigate apps, employing AI to interpret the user’s gaze and intended gestures like swiping and tapping. Additionally, the feature includes Dwell Control, which detects when the user’s gaze lingers on an element, indicating their selection intent.
Another notable addition is “Vocal Shortcuts,” enhancing Apple’s voice-controlled operations. This feature allows users to assign specific sounds or words to trigger shortcuts and perform tasks. For instance, saying “Ah!” can prompt Siri to launch an app. Apple has also introduced “Listen for Atypical Speech,” leveraging machine learning to recognize unique speech patterns, benefiting users with conditions affecting speech such as cerebral palsy, ALS, and stroke.
Apple has previously introduced “Personal Voice,” providing users with an AI-generated voice that resembles their own, launched last year.
For users with hearing impairments, “Music Haptics” offers a novel way to experience Apple Music through taps, textures, and vibrations. This feature will also be available as an API, enabling music app developers to offer a more accessible audio experience.
Addressing motion sickness concerns, Apple introduced the “Vehicle Motion Cues” setting, which replaces stationary content with animated dots that move in sync with the vehicle’s motion, reducing discomfort.
CarPlay is receiving updates, including a “Voice Control” feature, “Color Filters” for colorblind users, and “Sound Recognition” to alert users to car horns and sirens.
Additionally, Apple announced an upcoming accessibility feature for visionOS, enabling live captions during FaceTime calls.
