Apple has recently announced a range of updates in honor of Global Disability Awareness Day. One of the most exciting updates is the introduction of Eye Tracking technology, which will enable users to control their iPhones and iPads by tracking their eye movements. This feature has been specifically designed for individuals with physical disabilities and is set to be released later this year. With Dwell Control, users can navigate their devices by simply using their eyes to execute various commands.
Apple CEO Tim Cook reiterated the company’s commitment to inclusive design, stating that accessibility is a fundamental component of its hardware and software. Eye Tracking will be integrated into iOS and iPadOS, meaning no additional hardware is required to use it. In addition to Eye Tracking, Apple has also introduced Music Haptics, a new music experience for deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals. By utilizing taps and vibrations, this feature enhances the music listening experience for those who may find traditional sound methods challenging.
Other updates include features designed for individuals with speech conditions such as Vocal Shortcuts and Listen for Atypical Speech. These features aim to improve accessibility for users who may have difficulty using traditional speech recognition technology. Lastly, Apple introduced Vehicle Motion Cues which can help alleviate motion sickness by providing visual cues indicating the direction of movement. These updates showcase Apple’s ongoing commitment to accessibility and inclusion across all its products.
