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                Apple Announces Upcoming Accessibility Features

   Josh Centers

   Apple has long placed an emphasis on accessibility features, and the
   company just [1]announced a slew of upcoming accessibility features
   across many of its platforms:
     * SignTime: With this new service, you'll be able to communicate with
       Apple support through American Sign Language, British Sign
       Language, or French Sign Language from a Web browser. If you visit
       a physical Apple Store, translators will be available through
       SignTime, with no prior notice required.
     * AssistiveTouch for Apple Watch: You'll be able to use the movements
       of your arm and wrist to control the Apple Watch without using the
       screen or crown.
     * Eye-Tracking for iPad: The iPad will be able to work with Made for
       iPhone (MFi) third-party eye trackers.
     * Explore images with VoiceOver: Apple's VoiceOver technology for
       reading interface elements can now [2]describe images, adding
       details about people, text, table data, and other objects.
     * Bi-directional hearing aids: The MFi hearing device program is
       adding support for bi-directional hearing aids, which help with
       hands-free conversations. New devices with this technology will be
       available in 2022.
     * Audiogram support in Headphone Accommodations: You'll be able to
       import the results of a hearing test to fine-tune the Headphone
       Accommodations setting.
     * Background sounds: If you find everyday sounds reducing your focus,
       you'll be able to turn on a collection of background sounds that
       play while you use your iPhone or iPad.

   Those are just the high points. Apple announced many more features,
   such as Memojis with oxygen tubes and cochlear implants, sign language
   in Apple Fitness+ workouts, and more. It's great to see the company
   working to improve the accessibility of its devices and making these
   efforts more public than in the past.

   [3]Read original article

References

   1. https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2021/05/apple-previews-powerful-software-updates-designed-for-people-with-disabilities/
   2. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UnoeaUpHKxY
   3. https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2021/05/apple-previews-powerful-software-updates-designed-for-people-with-disabilities/

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