Apple has announced new accessibility features for the iPhone for the visually impaired and the deaf and hard of hearing. For example, the devices have door detection, which guides people with reduced or no visibility to a door.
The feature works with the cameras of recent iPhones and iPads. When blind and partially sighted people get to a place they’ve never been before, they can use the feature to find the door of a building. With the option, they are told how far they still have to walk to the door.
Also, the function tells them whether the door is open or closed. When the door is closed, it is explained how to open it, for example with a handle or a button. In addition, the software can read symbols and texts on the door, allowing the phone to read aloud whether the person has to push or pull.
Apple is also adding a new feature for the deaf and hard of hearing. Live captioning converts audio to text. For example, users can have FaceTime and telephone conversations captioned. The feature will be in beta later this year and will initially only work in English.
Apple Watch-bediening via iPhone
Apple Watch Mirroring has also been announced. The option makes it easier for people with physical or motor disabilities to operate an Apple Watch (Series 6 or newer).
This then works via the link with an iPhone, whose accessibility options can be used to operate the Watch. This includes voice and main controls. People can also use simpler hand movements to perform actions.
It is unknown when the features will be added.
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