Apple is celebrating Accessibility Awareness Day this entire week with a range of new content tailored for users of various abilities. From Fitness+ to Apple Maps and Apple Music, there's plenty to explore this week.
Enhancing Accessibility in Apple Stores
Starting May 19, Apple is bringing SignTime, an on-demand sign language service, to Canada. This service allows Apple Support and Store customers to communicate with an interpreter using American Sign Language (ASL). SignTime is already available in the US with ASL, in the UK with British Sign Language (BSL), and in France with French Sign Language (LSF).
In addition, Apple Stores worldwide are offering live sessions this week to educate customers on how to utilize accessibility features on their iPhones. These educational sessions can also be accessed on Apple Support’s social media channels.
New Shortcuts for Mac and Apple Watch
This week, an Accessibility Assistant shortcut is being introduced to the Shortcuts app on Mac and Apple Watch. This tool will recommend accessibility features based on individual user preferences, enhancing the personalized experience for users.
Inclusive Workouts for Wheelchair Users
Apple Fitness+ trainer Bakari Williams will be using ASL to showcase accessibility features available to all users, such as Audio Hints, which provide short descriptive verbal cues for users who are blind or have low vision. Fitness+ is also modifying its offerings: 'Time to Walk' will now include 'Time to Walk or Push' and 'Time to Run' will be adapted to 'Time to Run or Push' for wheelchair users. Moreover, trainers will incorporate ASL into every workout and meditation session, with all videos featuring closed captioning in six languages. Each workout will also include modifications to cater to different fitness levels.
Exploring Parks with Apple Maps
Apple Maps has launched a new guide named 'Parks Access for All', designed to assist users in finding accessible features, programs, and services within parks across the US. This guide was developed in collaboration with Gallaudet University, a leading institution for Deaf, Deafblind, and hard of hearing students. Additionally, Apple Maps is highlighting businesses that prioritize serving the Deaf community, a topic that was addressed by Tim Cook during his recent commencement address at Gallaudet.
Listening with Apple Music
Apple Music is featuring 'Saylist' playlists, which focus on different sounds within each collection. Though this tool is particularly beneficial for individuals practicing vocal sounds or engaged in speech therapy, it is accessible for anyone interested in exploring various auditory experiences.
Additional Features and Content
Apple TV+ is showcasing its popular movies and series that represent individuals with disabilities, including collections featuring well-known actors like Marlee Matlin from CODA, Lauren Ridloff from Eternals, and Selma Blair from Introducing, Selma Blair. The App Store is also promoting accessibility-focused applications and sharing developer stories. Furthermore, Apple Books has introduced a new collection of narratives from individuals with disabilities, while Apple Podcasts will highlight advancements in technology that enhance accessibility.
More on Accessibility Awareness Day
For comprehensive details on how Apple is celebrating Accessibility Awareness Day this week, you can check out the full press release. Notably, Apple has unveiled new accessibility features slated for release this year, including Door Detection, Live Captions, and Apple Watch Mirroring.
Source: 9to5Mac News