Tim Cook CEO of Apple | Apple
Apple has announced a series of new accessibility features set to launch later this year. These enhancements include Accessibility Nutrition Labels, which will provide detailed information about the accessibility features of apps and games on the App Store. Users with visual impairments can look forward to exploring and interacting with the new Magnifier app for Mac, taking notes with Braille Access, and utilizing updates to visionOS on Apple Vision Pro.
Tim Cook, Apple's CEO, stated, "At Apple, accessibility is part of our DNA. Making technology for everyone is a priority for all of us, and we’re proud of the innovations we’re sharing this year." Sarah Herrlinger, Apple's senior director of Global Accessibility Policy and Initiatives, added that these features are designed to bring users new ways to engage with what they care about most.
The Accessibility Nutrition Labels will appear on App Store product pages worldwide. Eric Bridges from the American Foundation for the Blind commented that these labels represent "a huge step forward for accessibility," allowing consumers to make informed decisions before downloading apps.
Magnifier is expanding from iPhone and iPad to Mac, offering tools for users with low vision. It integrates with Continuity Camera on iPhone and USB cameras. The new Braille Access feature transforms various Apple devices into braille note takers. Additionally, Accessibility Reader offers a customizable reading mode across several Apple products.
Live Listen controls are coming to Apple Watch, enabling real-time Live Captions streamed directly from an iPhone. Updates also include expanded visionOS capabilities using Apple Vision Pro's camera system.
Other notable features include Personal Voice improvements leveraging machine learning for more natural-sounding voices in under a minute; Vehicle Motion Cues on Mac; enhanced Eye Tracking options; Switch Control support for Brain Computer Interfaces; Assistive Access API support; customizable Music Haptics; Sound Recognition's Name Recognition feature; expanded language support in Voice Control and Live Captions; Share Accessibility Settings between devices; and more accessible content across Apple's media platforms.
Apple Retail will highlight these features in select stores throughout May alongside year-round accessibility sessions through Today at Apple. Meanwhile, Apple Music introduces music haptics stories and playlists featuring ASL interpretations.