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<title>A New Dawn for Prosthetics: How Data is Transforming Socket Design</title>
<link>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/09/data-enabled-prosthetic-socket-design.html</link>
<comments>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/09/data-enabled-prosthetic-socket-design.html#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Venkat]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Tue, 16 Sep 2025 12:43:55 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Prosthetics]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/?p=18510</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Discover how a new data-driven technology is revolutionizing prosthetic leg design. A recent UK study shows that this AI-powered approach provides a "starting design" for sockets that are just as comfortable as traditional methods, but with more consistent and faster results, promising to improve patient care and reduce healthcare backlogs.
The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/09/data-enabled-prosthetic-socket-design.html">A New Dawn for Prosthetics: How Data is Transforming Socket Design</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
For individuals with limb loss, the connection between their body and their <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/category/prosthetics">prosthetic</a>, known as the socket, is crucial for comfort and mobility. Traditionally, creating this socket is a hands-on, time-consuming process involving plaster casts and multiple appointments to get the fit just right. However, a groundbreaking collaboration between <a href="https://radiidevices.com">Radii Devices</a> and the <a href="https://www.southampton.ac.uk/news/2025/08/datadriven-designs-to-improve-prosthetic-legs.page">University of Southampton</a> is set to change this, offering a faster, more consistent, and patient-friendly approach through a new data-driven software. This technology analyzes hundreds of previous successful prosthetic designs, identifying trends between a patient’s residual limb shape and an effective socket design. By scanning a new patient’s limb, the software can instantly generate a personalized “starting design,” providing prosthetists with a solid and reliable base to work from.
A recent clinical trial, with results published in <a href="https://rehab.jmir.org/2025/1/e69962">JMIR Rehabilitation and Assistive Technology</a>, put this new method to the test. The study involved 17 participants with 19 below-the-knee amputations across three UK prosthetic rehabilitation centers. Each participant tried two sockets: one designed by their expert prosthetist using conventional methods and another generated by the new evidence-based software. The results were compelling. On average, there was no statistical difference in comfort scores between the two designs. In fact, the data-driven sockets showed less variation in comfort, indicating more consistent results. The qualitative feedback from participants was equally positive; many found it difficult to tell the difference in comfort, with some describing both sockets as feeling “natural.” Several participants even preferred the fit of the new data-driven socket and chose to have it made into their permanent prosthetic.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" data-attachment-id="18514" data-permalink="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/pexels-kampus-6111599-hn_jkq0z_bzqb8-2" data-orig-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/pexels-kampus-6111599.Hn_jkq0Z_Bzqb8-1.webp" data-orig-size="1920,1280" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"0"}" data-image-title="pexels-kampus-6111599.Hn_jkq0Z_Bzqb8" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="Image source: Radii Devices)
" data-medium-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/pexels-kampus-6111599.Hn_jkq0Z_Bzqb8-1-300x200.webp" data-large-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/pexels-kampus-6111599.Hn_jkq0Z_Bzqb8-1-1024x683.webp" src="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/pexels-kampus-6111599.Hn_jkq0Z_Bzqb8-1-1024x683.webp" alt="A man with a prosthetic right leg sits on a wooden stool in a clinic while a female therapist crouches down to examine and adjust his prosthetic foot" class="wp-image-18514" srcset="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/pexels-kampus-6111599.Hn_jkq0Z_Bzqb8-1-1024x683.webp 1024w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/pexels-kampus-6111599.Hn_jkq0Z_Bzqb8-1-300x200.webp 300w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/pexels-kampus-6111599.Hn_jkq0Z_Bzqb8-1-768x512.webp 768w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/pexels-kampus-6111599.Hn_jkq0Z_Bzqb8-1-1536x1024.webp 1536w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/pexels-kampus-6111599.Hn_jkq0Z_Bzqb8-1.webp 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image source: Radii Devices)</figcaption></figure>
The study highlighted that while both sockets were often very similar in comfort, the new technology provides a significant advantage in efficiency. By generating an excellent initial design almost instantly, it promises to reduce the number of appointments and iterations needed for a perfect fit. This not only improves the experience for the patient but could also be a crucial tool in reducing backlogs and waiting lists within healthcare systems like the NHS. Participants’ detailed feedback also reinforced the importance of the prosthetist’s role, who can use the generated design as a starting point and apply their expertise to make patient-specific adjustments for sensitive areas or individual preferences.
Looking ahead, the future of this technology is bright. The goal isn’t to replace the highly skilled prosthetist but to empower them with a powerful new tool. By combining vast datasets of successful fittings with the clinician’s expertise, the process becomes a more efficient and collaborative co-design between the prosthetist and the patient. With nearly 100 people already fitted with a prosthetic using this method in the UK and USA, and the final stage of the study underway, this evidence-generated design approach is poised to become a new standard of care. It represents a significant step forward, promising to enhance the quality of life for prosthetic users by delivering greater comfort and a better fitting experience, faster than ever before.
<a href="https://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/25407472.prosthetic-legs-improved-new-technology/?ref=rss">Source: Daily Echo</a>
This blog post was generated by an AI assistant. I analyzed the provided news article and research paper, extracting and synthesizing key information from both. My primary function was to process the complex details of the study—including its methodology, participant data, and qualitative feedback—and then restructure that information into a cohesive, easy-to-read blog post that met the specified length and content requirements.
The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/09/data-enabled-prosthetic-socket-design.html">A New Dawn for Prosthetics: How Data is Transforming Socket Design</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.
]]></content:encoded>
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<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18510</post-id> </item>
<item>
<title>Seeing a New Future: How Smart Glasses Are Unlocking Independence For Visually Impaired Individuals</title>
<link>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/08/smart-glasses-for-visually-impaired-individuals.html</link>
<comments>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/08/smart-glasses-for-visually-impaired-individuals.html#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Venkat]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Tue, 26 Aug 2025 17:25:54 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Vision]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/?p=18339</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Meta's smart glasses are more than a stylish gadget. Discover their powerful, unexpected role in assistive technology and how they are creating a more inclusive future for everyone.
The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/08/smart-glasses-for-visually-impaired-individuals.html">Seeing a New Future: How Smart Glasses Are Unlocking Independence For Visually Impaired Individuals</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<a href="https://www.meta.com/in/ai-glasses/">Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses</a>, while not explicitly designed as assistive technology, are gaining recognition for their potential to significantly improve accessibility and independence for many people. By integrating voice control, open-ear audio, and a camera into a stylish and commonly worn accessory, these glasses offer a more natural and seamless way to interact with the world. This design is particularly beneficial for individuals with hearing loss, vision differences, or limited dexterity, as it allows for hands-free operation and access to information without the need to use a phone.
<a href="https://www.bemyeyes.com/be-my-eyes-smartglasses/">The partnership with Be My Eyes</a>, a platform connecting blind and low-vision users with sighted volunteers, has unlocked the true potential of these smart glasses as a powerful accessibility tool. Through a simple voice command, users can connect with a volunteer who can see through the glasses’ camera and <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2015/01/be-my-eyes-app-that-lets-blind-people.html">provide real-time assistance</a>, from reading signs to navigating unfamiliar environments. This integration transforms the glasses from a convenient gadget into a tool that fosters greater independence, confidence, and participation in daily activities, including employment.
The development of the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, along with <a href="https://www.nuanceaudio.com/en-us">EssilorLuxottica’s Nuance Audio hearing glasses</a>, signals a broader shift towards inclusive design in mainstream technology. These products demonstrate a move away from specialized, often conspicuous, assistive devices towards technology that is integrated into everyday items. This approach not only enhances functionality but also normalizes the use of assistive technology, allowing people to live more fully without feeling singled out. The focus on intuitive, voice-controlled interaction in the Ray-Ban Meta glasses, in particular, opens up new possibilities for how technology can adapt to individual needs.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe title="Be My Eyes "Call a Volunteer" on Meta AI Glasses" width="650" height="366" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fc6ulTxDxSM?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-other-uses-of-smart-glasses">Other Uses of Smart Glasses</h2>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Real-time Captioning and Translation</h3>
For individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, smart glasses can provide real-time captions of conversations. This technology company, Xander, has developed “<a class="ng-star-inserted" data-hveid="0" data-ved="0CAAQ_4QMahcKEwjk6LKd4qiPAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQLw" href="https://www.xanderglasses.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">XanderGlasses</a>” that use augmented reality to project captions of spoken conversations into the wearer’s field of view. Another company, XRAI, offers a software solution that can be integrated into existing smart glasses to provide <a class="ng-star-inserted" data-hveid="0" data-ved="0CAAQ_4QMahcKEwjk6LKd4qiPAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQMA" href="https://www.hearingtracker.com/hearing-glasses/hear-with-your-eyes-five-ar-live-captioning-glasses" target="_blank" rel="noopener">live captioning and translation</a>. These technologies aim to make in-person conversations more accessible in various environments.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cognitive and Memory Support</h3>
Smart glasses are being explored as a tool to assist individuals with cognitive decline and memory loss. The “<a class="ng-star-inserted" data-hveid="0" data-ved="0CAAQ_4QMahcKEwjk6LKd4qiPAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQMQ" href="https://www.media.mit.edu/wearables/mithril/memory-glasses.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Memory Glasses</a>” project from the MIT Media Lab is a proactive, context-aware memory aid designed to deliver reminders without requiring the user’s active attention. Similarly, the Envision Glasses are smart glasses for people with low vision that offer features like text recognition, scene description, and facial recognition, which can also be beneficial for those with cognitive challenges. While not exclusively for memory support, a Reddit user shared a student project concept called “<a href="http://https.www.reddit.com/r/dementia/comments/1m0tvpf/smart_glasses_to_support_early_cognitive_decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NeuroCare AI Glass</a>” which would use an empathetic voice assistant to help users recognize faces and places.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Navigation for Mobility Impairments</h3>
While primarily designed for the visually impaired, the navigation features in smart glasses can also benefit those with mobility impairments. By providing hands-free, voice-guided directions and obstacle detection, these glasses can help users navigate their surroundings more safely and independently. Vision-Aid’s “<a class="ng-star-inserted" href="https://visionaid.org/about-smart-vision-glasses/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-hveid="0" data-ved="0CAAQ_4QMahcKEwjk6LKd4qiPAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQMw">Smart Vision Glass</a>” is an example of a device that includes walking assistance with obstacle detection and timely voice alerts. Research is also being conducted on using smart glasses with GPS for <a class="ng-star-inserted" href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/393623484_Smart_Glasses_with_Voice_Assistance_and_GPS_for_Independent_Mobility_of_the_Blind_People" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-hveid="0" data-ved="0CAAQ_4QMahcKEwjk6LKd4qiPAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQNA">independent mobility</a>, which could be adapted to highlight accessible routes.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Remote Assistance for a Wider Range of Tasks</h3>
The concept of remote assistance, similar to Be My Eyes, is being widely adopted in various industries using smart glasses. Companies like Vuzix and TeamViewer offer remote assistance solutions that allow frontline workers to connect with experts who can see what they see and provide real-time guidance. This “see-what-I-see” technology can be applied to a wide range of tasks, from complex industrial repairs to medical procedures. For example, Zoho Lens provides <a class="ng-star-inserted" data-hveid="0" data-ved="0CAAQ_4QMahcKEwjk6LKd4qiPAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQNQ" href="https://www.zoho.com/lens/smart-glasses-software.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AR smart glasses software</a> for remote assistance in field service, maintenance, and healthcare.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Personalized Auditory Experiences</h3>
For individuals with sensory processing disorders, smart glasses with integrated audio can offer a way to manage their auditory environment. While the primary focus of many smart glasses is on providing information, the underlying technology of bone conduction or directional speakers can be used to create personalized soundscapes. Research from the journal PLOS One has investigated the use of “<a class="ng-star-inserted" href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0290431" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-hveid="0" data-ved="0CAAQ_4QMahcKEwjk6LKd4qiPAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQNg">acoustic touch</a>” with smart glasses to assist people who are blind, and this concept of using spatial audio could be adapted to help individuals with sensory sensitivities by either masking or enhancing specific sounds in their environment.
<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/billschiffmiller/2025/08/18/be-my-eyes-turns-ray-ban-meta-smart-glasses-into-assistive-technology/">Source: Forbes</a>
This post was developed with the assistance of an AI tool to help with research and content generation. I provided a source article, which the AI then summarized and used as a basis to brainstorm other potential accessibility uses for the technology. This process helped streamline the initial drafting and exploration of the topic. Is this a good use of AI? Why or why not? Let me know in the comments below!
The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/08/smart-glasses-for-visually-impaired-individuals.html">Seeing a New Future: How Smart Glasses Are Unlocking Independence For Visually Impaired Individuals</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.
]]></content:encoded>
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<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18339</post-id> </item>
<item>
<title>Breaking the Silence: How Rose Ayling-Ellis is Redefining TV Inclusion With Code of Silence</title>
<link>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/08/code-of-silence.html</link>
<comments>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/08/code-of-silence.html#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Venkat]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Wed, 13 Aug 2025 07:52:41 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Hearing]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/?p=18169</guid>
<description><![CDATA[A new British crime drama, “Code of Silence,” has been making waves for its compelling plot and its significant contribution to on-screen inclusion. The series, which holds a perfect 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, centers on Alison Brooks, a deaf canteen worker portrayed by deaf actress Rose Ayling-Ellis. Alison’s exceptional lip-reading skills draw her into a police investigation of a jewelry heist. The show has been lauded not just for its plot, but for its groundbreaking ability to convey the authentic sensory experience of being deaf, from its visual style to its intricate sound design. It is also available in both American and British Sign Language, a major step forward for accessibility. Rose Ayling-Ellis’s role in the show’s success extends far beyond her powerful on-screen performance. As an executive producer, she was involved in all stages of production, from the initial writing process to the final edit, ensuring an authentic portrayal of the deaf experience. She drew from her own frustrations with discrimination in past jobs to build Alison’s layered character. To create the show’s unique soundscape, she had the crew listen through her own hearing aids with a special stethoscope so they could understand the mechanical, unfiltered noise she [...]
The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/08/code-of-silence.html">Breaking the Silence: How Rose Ayling-Ellis is Redefining TV Inclusion With Code of Silence</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
A new British crime drama, “Code of Silence,” has been making waves for its compelling plot and its significant contribution to <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/07/sinners-basl.html">on-screen inclusion</a>. The series, which holds a perfect 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, centers on Alison Brooks, a deaf canteen worker portrayed by deaf actress Rose Ayling-Ellis. Alison’s exceptional lip-reading skills draw her into a police investigation of a jewelry heist. The show has been lauded not just for its plot, but for its groundbreaking ability to convey the authentic sensory experience of being deaf, from its visual style to its intricate sound design. It is also available in both American and British Sign Language, a major step forward for accessibility.
Rose Ayling-Ellis’s role in the show’s success extends far beyond her powerful on-screen performance. As an executive producer, she was involved in all stages of production, from the initial writing process to the final edit, ensuring an authentic portrayal of the deaf experience. She drew from <a href="https://tellyvisions.org/article/code-silence-interview-rose-ayling-ellis">her own frustrations with discrimination</a> in past jobs to build Alison’s layered character. To create the show’s unique soundscape, she had the crew listen through her own hearing aids with a special stethoscope so they could understand the mechanical, unfiltered noise she experiences. This recording was then used as a reference by the sound department, which also included deaf percussionist Evelyn Glennie, to create a richer, more genuine story.
<figure data-carousel-extra='{"blog_id":1,"permalink":"https:\/\/assistivetechnologyblog.com\/2025\/08\/code-of-silence.html"}' class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1070" height="485" data-attachment-id="18172" data-permalink="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/08/code-of-silence.html/code-of-silence-key-art-vertical" data-orig-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-Key-Art-Vertical.avif" data-orig-size="1070,485" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"0"}" data-image-title="Code of Silence Key Art Vertical" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-Key-Art-Vertical.avif" data-large-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-Key-Art-Vertical.avif" data-id="18172" src="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-Key-Art-Vertical.avif" alt="Vertical key art for the TV show "Code of Silence," featuring a dramatic and serious close-up of actress Rose Ayling-Ellis looking directly at the camera." class="wp-image-18172"/></figure>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" data-attachment-id="18171" data-permalink="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/08/code-of-silence.html/code_of_silence_episode1_02_0" data-orig-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/code_of_silence_episode1_02_0.jpg" data-orig-size="1500,1001" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"0"}" data-image-title="code_of_silence_episode1_02_0" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/code_of_silence_episode1_02_0-300x200.jpg" data-large-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/code_of_silence_episode1_02_0-1024x683.jpg" data-id="18171" src="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/code_of_silence_episode1_02_0-1024x683.jpg" alt="Rose Ayling-Ellis, with a concerned expression, is seen staring at a computer monitor." class="wp-image-18171" srcset="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/code_of_silence_episode1_02_0-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/code_of_silence_episode1_02_0-300x200.jpg 300w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/code_of_silence_episode1_02_0-768x513.jpg 768w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/code_of_silence_episode1_02_0.jpg 1500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" data-attachment-id="18174" data-permalink="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/08/code-of-silence.html/code-of-silence-s1-4" data-orig-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-S1-4.png" data-orig-size="2500,1667" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"0"}" data-image-title="Code of Silence S1 – 4" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-S1-4-300x200.png" data-large-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-S1-4-1024x683.png" data-id="18174" src="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-S1-4-1024x683.png" alt="Actress Rose Ayling-Ellis in a what seems like a dark alley. Both her hands are up." class="wp-image-18174" srcset="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-S1-4-1024x683.png 1024w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-S1-4-300x200.png 300w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-S1-4-768x512.png 768w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-S1-4-1536x1024.png 1536w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-S1-4-2048x1366.png 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" data-attachment-id="18173" data-permalink="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/08/code-of-silence.html/code-of-silence-season-1-episode-4-rose-ayling-ellis-keiron-moore" data-orig-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-Season-1-Episode-4-Rose-Ayling-Ellis-Keiron-Moore.jpg" data-orig-size="1920,1080" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"0"}" data-image-title="Code of Silence Season 1 Episode 4 Rose Ayling Ellis Keiron Moore" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-Season-1-Episode-4-Rose-Ayling-Ellis-Keiron-Moore-300x169.jpg" data-large-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-Season-1-Episode-4-Rose-Ayling-Ellis-Keiron-Moore-1024x576.jpg" data-id="18173" src="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-Season-1-Episode-4-Rose-Ayling-Ellis-Keiron-Moore-1024x576.jpg" alt="A nighttime, close-up shot of Rose Ayling-Ellis and Kieron Moore inside a library." class="wp-image-18173" srcset="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-Season-1-Episode-4-Rose-Ayling-Ellis-Keiron-Moore-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-Season-1-Episode-4-Rose-Ayling-Ellis-Keiron-Moore-300x169.jpg 300w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-Season-1-Episode-4-Rose-Ayling-Ellis-Keiron-Moore-768x432.jpg 768w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-Season-1-Episode-4-Rose-Ayling-Ellis-Keiron-Moore-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-Season-1-Episode-4-Rose-Ayling-Ellis-Keiron-Moore-310x174.jpg 310w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Code-of-Silence-Season-1-Episode-4-Rose-Ayling-Ellis-Keiron-Moore.jpg 1920w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
</figure>
The show fosters inclusivity not just in front of the camera but behind it as well. The production team intentionally created a welcoming environment for all, demonstrating that accommodations lead to better work. The show’s creator, Catherine Moulton, is hard of hearing, and executive producer Bryony Arnold is a wheelchair user. The production hired an access coordinator and made practical adjustments for its crew, such as providing ramps, color-coded signage for a team member with a visual impairment, and stools for those who couldn’t stand all day. This commitment to valuing every crew member created a pleasant atmosphere where everyone felt seen and could do their best work, proving that shows centered on disability, both on-screen and off, are what audiences are eager to watch.
Ayling-Ellis’s broader career continues to break barriers. After <a href="https://about.amazingpeopleschools.com/ap-library/rose-ayling-ellis/#:~:text=As%20a%20child%2C%20Rose%20took,What%20Am%20I%20Known%20For%3F">discovering her passion for acting</a> through the National Deaf Children’s Society, she gained widespread recognition in “EastEnders” and as the first deaf winner of “Strictly Come Dancing.” Through her advocacy, documentaries, and a growing list of acclaimed roles in television and theatre, Ayling-Ellis is challenging industry stereotypes and paving the way for more authentic representation in media.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Code Of Silence Season 1 Trailer" width="650" height="366" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dVyLWe7nQVA?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>
<a href="https://nationalpost.com/entertainment/television/deaf-character-makes-herself-heard-in-code-of-silence">Source (1): National Post </a>, <a href="https://comicbook.com/tv-shows/news/new-streaming-crime-drama-code-of-silence-perfect-rotten-tomatoes-score/">Source (2): Comic Book</a> 
A Note on Generation: This article was crafted with the assistance of Google Gemini. The process involved synthesizing key information from multiple sources, including two initial articles and a detailed interview with star Rose Ayling-Ellis. The AI was prompted to combine these sources, identify central themes, and structure the content into a cohesive narrative focusing on representation and the show’s inclusive production process. The final text is a result of this AI-assisted curation and refinement.
The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/08/code-of-silence.html">Breaking the Silence: How Rose Ayling-Ellis is Redefining TV Inclusion With Code of Silence</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.
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<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18169</post-id> </item>
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<title>“Sinners” Movie Review: A Horror Hit and a Landmark for Black American Sign Language</title>
<link>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/07/sinners-basl.html</link>
<comments>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/07/sinners-basl.html#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Venkat]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Mon, 28 Jul 2025 17:51:38 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Hearing]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/?p=18068</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Discover the critically acclaimed horror film "Sinners" now streaming on Max. Learn about its groundbreaking release in Black American Sign Language (BASL), what the reviews are saying, and why this is a pivotal moment for representation and accessibility in cinema.
The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/07/sinners-basl.html">“Sinners” Movie Review: A Horror Hit and a Landmark for Black American Sign Language</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<div id="model-response-message-contentr_baf95c90d45d4839" class="markdown markdown-main-panel stronger enable-updated-hr-color" dir="ltr">
The critically acclaimed period horror film, “Sinners,” is now available for streaming on Max, offering a groundbreaking viewing experience. In a first for a feature film, “Sinners” is accessible in Black American Sign Language (BASL), a distinct dialect of <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2024/09/universal-studios-asl-inclusive-a-quiet-place.html">American Sign Language (ASL)</a>. This initiative marks a significant advancement in accessibility and representation for the Black Deaf community, providing an immersive experience that acknowledges the unique cultural and linguistic nuances of BASL. The BASL interpretation is performed by Nakia Smith, a prominent advocate in the Black Deaf community, and directed by Rosa Lee Timm.
Viewers have the option to stream the original theatrical version of the film or the BASL-interpreted version. Max’s announcement highlighted the importance of this release for the Black Deaf community, allowing them to experience the film in a language that is culturally their own. The move has been praised by Warner Bros. Discovery as a step towards authentic storytelling and inclusive accessibility, recognizing that a one-size-fits-all approach is not sufficient in streaming.
“Sinners” has been met with generally positive reviews from critics, who have lauded its ambition, originality, and visual style. The film, a blend of historical drama, horror, and musical, is described as a “bold, original, and… fresh mix of genres” by The Times of India and a “bloody, brilliant motion picture” by a review thread on Reddit. The narrative, set in the Jim Crow South, uses vampirism as a metaphor to explore the exploitation of Black culture. Michael B. Jordan’s dual performance in the lead roles has been widely praised as powerful and compelling.
However, some critics have pointed out the film’s occasional slow pace and overstuffed narrative. A review from RogerEbert.com notes that while ambitious, the film’s designs “ultimately conform to genre conventions, causing the intended awe to happen only in flashes.” Despite some reservations, the consensus is that “Sinners” is a unique and thought-provoking cinematic experience. You can read more in the reviews from <a class="ng-star-inserted" href="https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/english/movie-reviews/sinners/movie-review/120415285.cms" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Times of India</a>, <a class="ng-star-inserted" href="https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/sinners-movie-review-2025" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Roger Ebert</a>, and <a class="ng-star-inserted" href="https://www.metacritic.com/movie/sinners/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Metacritic</a>.
The inclusion of Black American Sign Language in “Sinners” highlights a <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2016/08/film-festival-in-india-encourages-deaf-film-maker-to-have-stronger-presence-in-film-making.html">crucial evolution in media accessibility</a>, moving beyond a generic approach to one of authentic cultural representation. Recognizing BASL as a unique language with its own history and nuances is vital for providing the Black Deaf community with content that truly reflects their experience. For future productions, filmmakers and studios should follow this precedent by actively incorporating diverse sign languages and their variants. This means collaborating directly with Deaf cultural consultants, directors, and performers from the specific communities being portrayed to ensure the interpretation is not just accurate, but also culturally and emotionally resonant. By treating sign language as an integral artistic component, rather than a simple add-on, the film industry can create genuinely inclusive experiences that honor the diversity within the Deaf community.
<a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/news/sinners-black-american-sign-language-max-b2780207.html">Source: Independent</a>
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<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Sinners | Black American Sign Language Official Trailer | Max" width="650" height="366" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/l2h2lC0vlX4?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>
The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/07/sinners-basl.html">“Sinners” Movie Review: A Horror Hit and a Landmark for Black American Sign Language</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.
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<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18068</post-id> </item>
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<title>Swype AI: High Schooler Develops AI App That Turns Your Hand into a Computer Mouse</title>
<link>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/07/swype-ai.html</link>
<comments>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/07/swype-ai.html#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Venkat]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Wed, 23 Jul 2025 14:17:45 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Artificial Intelligence]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Motor Skills]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Paralysis]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Seniors]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/?p=18063</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Discover Swype AI, an app by teen inventor Dhanvin Ganeshkumar. Using predictive AI, it offers smooth, gesture-based computer control for users with motor disabilities like Parkinson's, arthritis, and ALS.
The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/07/swype-ai.html">Swype AI: High Schooler Develops AI App That Turns Your Hand into a Computer Mouse</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Inspired by his grandparents’ struggles with modern technology due to motor tremors, high school junior Dhanvin Ganeshkumar is developing an assistive app called Swype AI. The application aims to make computers more accessible for people with motor disabilities, such as those caused by Parkinson’s disease or ALS. Swype AI will allow a user to control their computer through a free smartphone app, using simple gestures or voice commands, bypassing the need for a traditional mouse or keyboard which can be difficult for some to operate.
Ganeshkumar is developing the app as a for-profit startup, a decision he made after realizing a non-profit model would be harder to scale. However, his primary mission is to ensure the technology is widely available. The plan is to offer the core functionality of Swype AI for free, making it accessible to underprivileged communities that cannot afford expensive assistive devices, which can often cost over $1,000. The company will generate revenue through optional in-app purchases for advanced customization features.
Built using Python and advanced hand-tracking technology, the project faced a significant technical hurdle during development. Early versions of the app had a noticeable lag, and the unsteady hand movements of users with tremors would cause the on-screen cursor to be erratic and difficult to control. To solve this, the team integrated a sophisticated smoothing filter, a mathematical tool that intelligently predicts the user’s intended motion and filters out the “noise” from involuntary shakes. By fine-tuning this system, they were able to create a highly responsive and accurate cursor that moves smoothly in real-time, providing a reliable and frustration-free user experience.
Currently in beta testing, Swype AI has already gained significant traction. Ganeshkumar has consulted with over 15 accessibility organizations to refine the app and has secured around $7,500 in funding and awards to cover initial production costs. He is using coding skills learned at his STEM-focused high school and research experience to build the app, with plans for a public launch within the next few months. He hopes his journey encourages other young people to develop and share their innovative ideas.
Watch the video below to see some quick demos of how Swype AI works and <a href="https://swypeai.tech">head to their website</a> to learn more about Swype AI.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Swype - United Hacks" width="650" height="366" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_ptp1MVTDZo?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<a href="https://www.arlnow.com/2025/07/10/arlington-high-schooler-creates-assistive-app-for-people-with-motor-disabilities/">Source (1): ARL Now</a>, <a href="https://devpost.com/software/swype-ai-ah3vpg">Source (2): DevPost</a>
 
The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/07/swype-ai.html">Swype AI: High Schooler Develops AI App That Turns Your Hand into a Computer Mouse</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.
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<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18063</post-id> </item>
<item>
<title>The Bike Leg Project: How One Prosthetist is Building Low-Cost Limbs from Bicycles</title>
<link>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/06/bike-leg-project.html</link>
<comments>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/06/bike-leg-project.html#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Venkat]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Fri, 27 Jun 2025 12:47:58 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/?p=18051</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Ben Hogan, a certified prosthetist and orthotist, is tackling the global challenge of prosthetic limb accessibility by fabricating them from bicycle parts. Troubled by the World Health Organization’s finding that only 1 in 10 individuals needing a prosthetic receive one, Hogan developed a functional, lightweight, and reliable prosthetic leg for those with below-the-knee amputations. His design reimagines the bicycle frame, already engineered to support human weight, into a prosthetic limb, with the wheel and spokes forming the foot and a custom-woven basket serving as the socket. Driven by his background as a bike mechanic, Hogan is passionate about evolving the field of prosthetics. He intends for his innovation to be a paradigm shift, making prosthetic care more attainable. To this end, he is actively sharing his methods and plans to present his “bike leg” at an international conference, aiming to disseminate this knowledge globally rather than keeping it proprietary. The assembly of the bike leg is an intricate process requiring considerable technical skill. It begins with the deconstruction of a steel bicycle frame, retaining only the seat tube and seat stays. The seat tube is then quartered to create four uprights which are bent and molded to the patient’s limb, [...]
The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/06/bike-leg-project.html">The Bike Leg Project: How One Prosthetist is Building Low-Cost Limbs from Bicycles</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<div id="model-response-message-contentr_402caea7dc5a8b18" class="markdown markdown-main-panel tutor-markdown-rendering enable-updated-hr-color" dir="ltr">
Ben Hogan, a certified prosthetist and orthotist, is tackling the global challenge of prosthetic limb accessibility by fabricating them from bicycle parts. Troubled by the World Health Organization’s finding that only 1 in 10 individuals needing a prosthetic receive one, Hogan developed a functional, lightweight, and reliable prosthetic leg for those with below-the-knee amputations. His design reimagines the bicycle frame, already engineered to support human weight, into a prosthetic limb, with the wheel and spokes forming the foot and a custom-woven basket serving as the socket.
Driven by his background as a bike mechanic, Hogan is passionate about evolving the field of prosthetics. He intends for his innovation to be a paradigm shift, making prosthetic care more attainable. To this end, he is <a href="https://www.projectbikeleg.com">actively sharing his methods</a> and plans to present his “bike leg” at an international conference, aiming to disseminate this knowledge globally rather than keeping it proprietary.
The <a href="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/67f2be4121c8ca05e9991c31/t/67f4861e9263c33ccbea89eb/1744078382875/Bike+project+PDF+good.pdf">assembly of the bike leg</a> is an intricate process requiring considerable technical skill. It begins with the deconstruction of a steel bicycle frame, retaining only the seat tube and seat stays. The seat tube is then quartered to create four uprights which are bent and molded to the patient’s limb, with two positioned on either side of the shin and two at the back. A custom basket is woven around the upper part of the limb to form the socket, which should not extend above the kneecap or behind the knee. The seat stays are then bent, trimmed, and riveted to the rear uprights. Crossbars are fashioned from the bike’s chainstays and riveted to the front and rear uprights. Sections of a tire are riveted inside the uprights to act as a suspension “trampoline” for the socket. The foot is made from two equal lengths of the wheel rim, which are shaped into a rocker. Spokes are run through the rim sections and attached to the seat’s frame to connect the foot. The entire prosthesis is suspended using a piece of a bicycle tube, and the final adjustments for fit and comfort are made. The complexity of the tasks, which involve metal cutting, bending, and riveting, suggests that the assembly is quite difficult for someone without a background in mechanics or fabrication.
<h2 data-sourcepos="7:1-7:34">Analysis of the “Bike Leg”</h2>
Bike Parts and Difficulty Level:
The construction of the prosthetic leg utilizes a range of bicycle components:
<ul data-sourcepos="12:1-17:0">
<li data-sourcepos="12:1-12:115">Frame and Stays: The steel frame’s seat tube and seat stays provide the core structure.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="13:1-13:98">Chain Stays: These are repurposed for creating stabilizing crossbars.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="14:1-14:153">Wheel Rims and Spokes: Rims are shaped into a functional foot, which is then attached to the leg structure using spokes.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="15:1-15:178">Tire and Tube: The tire is used for the socket’s suspension and as tread for the foot, while the tube helps to suspend the entire prosthesis.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="16:1-17:0">Shifter and Cable: These parts are used to create compression.</li>
</ul>
The difficulty level is high, demanding skills in metalworking, such as cutting and bending steel, and riveting. A fundamental understanding of biomechanics is also crucial to ensure the prosthetic is shaped and fitted correctly for the user.
<h2 data-sourcepos="20:1-20:46">How, When, Where, and Why This is Helpful</h2>
This innovative approach is most impactful in low-resource environments where conventional prosthetic technology is not available or is prohibitively expensive. Bicycles are ubiquitous worldwide, making them a readily available source of materials. The “why” is compellingly answered by the vast number of people living without necessary prosthetic devices. Hogan’s project offers a viable solution to this widespread issue.
The “bike leg” is particularly advantageous in developing nations and remote areas. It empowers local technicians to build and maintain prosthetics using local resources. In comparison to other low-cost alternatives like 3D printing, the bike leg offers distinct advantages:
<ul data-sourcepos="26:1-28:0">
<li data-sourcepos="26:1-26:332">Accessibility and Durability: 3D printers require stable electricity, specialized materials, and technical know-how, which can be scarce in some regions. Discarded bicycles are far more common. A steel-framed prosthetic is also significantly more durable, especially on rough terrain, compared to standard 3D-printed plastics.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="27:1-28:0">Repairability: A damaged bike leg can be repaired using basic mechanical skills and spare bicycle parts, which are much more accessible than the resources needed to reprint a broken 3D-printed prosthetic.</li>
</ul>
In essence, Hogan’s “bike leg” presents a practical, durable, and accessible alternative for prosthetic care in many parts of the world where the need is most critical.
Watch the videos below to learn more about the Bike Leg and how it’s been helping people. You can also<a href="https://www.projectbikeleg.com"> watch the full process of making the Bike Leg</a> on Ben’s website.
 
</div>
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Project Bike Leg 🚴‍♂💡" width="650" height="366" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Q_YCvSjjMIo?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Michigan man aims for global shift with bicycle-based prosthetics" width="650" height="366" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/91hQ37K5Qrs?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>
<a href="https://www.wzzm13.com/article/news/health/michigan-man-prosthetic-legs-out-of-bike-parts/69-b58fcd9c-0074-49ea-b68d-85214c221f94">Source: WZZM 13</a>
Google’s AI assistant, Gemini, was used to help create this article. It assisted by summarizing the original source article and analyzing a detailed PDF to create the step-by-step assembly instructions. Gemini then synthesized the information from both sources into a comprehensive post. The tool also helped generate the post’s title, description, keywords, and image alt text.
The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/06/bike-leg-project.html">The Bike Leg Project: How One Prosthetist is Building Low-Cost Limbs from Bicycles</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.
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<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18051</post-id> </item>
<item>
<title>Enhancing Digital Accessibility: Introducing Our New AI-Powered Alt Text Generator</title>
<link>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/05/ai-alt-text-generator.html</link>
<comments>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/05/ai-alt-text-generator.html#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Venkat]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Wed, 28 May 2025 04:41:40 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Artificial Intelligence]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Vision]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/?p=18035</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Try our free AI Alt Text Generator! Create multilingual alt text for up to 50 images, streamline web accessibility, and learn why your human review is crucial. Discover this experimental tool today.
The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/05/ai-alt-text-generator.html">Enhancing Digital Accessibility: Introducing Our New AI-Powered Alt Text Generator</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<div id="model-response-message-contentr_cc2ddcd3b75431ec" class="markdown markdown-main-panel tutor-markdown-rendering enable-updated-hr-color stronger" dir="ltr">
In our visually rich digital world, Images convey vast amounts of information, tell stories, and evoke emotion. But what happens when these images are invisible to a segment of your audience? For millions of people who are blind, have low vision, or use assistive technologies like screen readers, the internet can become a landscape of missing pieces without a simple yet powerful feature: <a href="https://accessibility.huit.harvard.edu/describe-content-images">alternative text, or “alt text.</a>“
Alt text is a concise, written description of an image that screen readers announce aloud, providing the essential context and meaning that sighted users perceive visually. It’s not just an accessibility feature; it’s a cornerstone of an inclusive web, ensuring <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2022/08/nasa-added-amazing-alt-text-image-descriptions-to-james-webb-space-telescope-photos.html">everyone can engage with online content equally.</a> It also plays a role in search engine optimization and helps when images fail to load. Yet, crafting high-quality, accurate alt text for every image, especially across numerous web pages or large documents, can be a significant and often overlooked challenge for content creators.
To help bridge this gap and streamline this vital process, we are pleased to announce the launch of a new solution: an <a href="https://alttextgenerator.assistivetechnologyblog.com">AI-Powered Alt Text Generator</a>. This application, currently in an experimental phase and available free of charge, is designed to assist users in creating descriptive alt text for images more efficiently, empowering you to make your content more accessible with greater ease.
<h2 data-sourcepos="13:1-13:63">Meet the AI Alt Text Generator: Your Accessibility Assistant</h2>
Our Alt Text Generator utilizes advanced artificial intelligence – specifically, Google’s Gemini API (an AI model capable of image comprehension and descriptive text generation) – to provide a strong starting point for your alt text.
Key features include:
<ul data-sourcepos="19:1-25:0">
<li data-sourcepos="19:1-19:311">Efficient Image Handling: Upload up to 50 images (JPEG, PNG, GIF, WEBP) at once. This batch processing capability is particularly beneficial when working with numerous photos for reports, website updates, blog posts, or when you need to retrospectively add alt text to previously published visual content.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="20:1-20:90">Multilingual Support: Select the desired target language for the generated alt text. (19 languages available)</li>
<li data-sourcepos="21:1-21:86">Batch Generation: Process all uploaded images efficiently with a single command. (The tool takes tiny breaks to process all the images!)</li>
<li data-sourcepos="22:1-22:170">Confidence Scores: The tool assigns confidence scores (High, Moderate, Needs Review) to each AI-generated description, aiding in the prioritization of human review.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="23:1-23:92">Direct Editing: Review and modify AI suggestions directly within the tool’s interface.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="24:1-25:0">Simple Export: Download finalized alt text in a .txt file format.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="24:1-25:0">Copy Alt Text: Alt text for each photo can also be copied and pasted into your tool where you are working with images.</li>
</ul>
<h2>How To Use Alt Text Generator</h2>
<ol>
<li>When you first visit the AI Alt Text Generator, you’ll see a clean interface ready for action. The page explains its purpose: to improve web accessibility by generating descriptive alt text for your images, with the capability to upload up to 50 images at a time. Key controls like ‘Choose Files,’ ‘Target Language for Alt Text’ (defaulting to English), and generation/download buttons are visible. Initially, a message indicates ‘No images uploaded yet,’ prompting you to begin.</li>
</ol>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" data-attachment-id="18036" data-permalink="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/05/ai-alt-text-generator.html/screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10-20-55-pm" data-orig-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.20.55 PM.png" data-orig-size="2062,1512" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"0"}" data-image-title="Screenshot 2025-05-27 at 10.20.55 PM" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.20.55 PM-300x220.png" data-large-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.20.55 PM-1024x751.png" class="alignnone wp-image-18036 size-large" src="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.20.55 PM-1024x751.png" alt="the AI Alt Text Generator's initial interface. Title reads 'AI Alt Text Generator (Experimental).' Controls for uploading files, selecting language (English chosen), and generating alt text are present but inactive. A message states 'No images uploaded yet.'"" width="1024" height="751" srcset="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.20.55 PM-1024x751.png 1024w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.20.55 PM-300x220.png 300w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.20.55 PM-768x563.png 768w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.20.55 PM-1536x1126.png 1536w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.20.55 PM-2048x1502.png 2048w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.20.55 PM-80x60.png 80w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />
2. Once you’ve selected your images using the ‘Choose Files’ button, they appear as individual cards. This screenshot shows 18 out of a possible 50 images loaded. Each card displays the filename (e.g., ‘import_photos_2801.jpg,’ ‘natural-bridge.jpg’), file size, and the currently set language for generation (English, in this case). The text area for ‘Generated Alt Text’ is empty, inviting you to either generate text for individual images or use the main ‘Generate Alt Text (18)’ button at the top to process all of them.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" data-attachment-id="18037" data-permalink="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/05/ai-alt-text-generator.html/screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10-14-14-pm" data-orig-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.14.14 PM.png" data-orig-size="1536,1464" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"0"}" data-image-title="Screenshot 2025-05-27 at 10.14.14 PM" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.14.14 PM-300x286.png" data-large-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.14.14 PM-1024x976.png" class="alignnone wp-image-18037 size-large" src="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.14.14 PM-1024x976.png" alt="Once you've selected your images using the 'Choose Files' button, they appear as individual cards. This screenshot shows 18 out of a possible 50 images loaded. Each card displays the filename (e.g., 'import_photos_2801.jpg,' 'natural-bridge.jpg'), file size, and the currently set language for generation (English, in this case). The text area for 'Generated Alt Text' is empty, inviting you to either generate text for individual images or use the main 'Generate Alt Text (18)' button at the top to process all of them." width="1024" height="976" srcset="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.14.14 PM-1024x976.png 1024w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.14.14 PM-300x286.png 300w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.14.14 PM-768x732.png 768w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.14.14 PM.png 1536w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />
3. Our tool is designed for global inclusivity. Before generating, you can easily select your desired language for the alt text from the ‘Target Language for Alt Text’ dropdown menu. This screenshot shows the dropdown expanded, with English selected, and a list of other available languages including Spanish, French, German, Japanese, Chinese (Simplified), Italian, Portuguese, Korean, Hindi, and Arabic. The ‘Generate Alt Text (18)’ button indicates images are ready once the language is set.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" data-attachment-id="18038" data-permalink="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/05/ai-alt-text-generator.html/screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10-13-36-pm" data-orig-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.13.36 PM.png" data-orig-size="2190,1276" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"0"}" data-image-title="Screenshot 2025-05-27 at 10.13.36 PM" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.13.36 PM-300x175.png" data-large-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.13.36 PM-1024x597.png" class="alignnone wp-image-18038 size-large" src="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.13.36 PM-1024x597.png" alt="Our tool is designed for global inclusivity. Before generating, you can easily select your desired language for the alt text from the 'Target Language for Alt Text' dropdown menu. This screenshot shows the dropdown expanded, with English selected, and a list of other available languages including Spanish, French, German, Japanese, Chinese (Simplified), Italian, Portuguese, Korean, Hindi, and Arabic. " width="1024" height="597" srcset="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.13.36 PM-1024x597.png 1024w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.13.36 PM-300x175.png 300w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.13.36 PM-768x447.png 768w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.13.36 PM-1536x895.png 1536w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.13.36 PM-2048x1193.png 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />
4. After clicking ‘Generate Alt Text,’ the AI gets to work! This screenshot demonstrates the results. The same two images (‘import_photos_2801.jpg’ and ‘natural-bridge.jpg’) now have descriptive alt text filled into their respective editable text areas. For example, the band photo’s alt text reads, ‘A black and white photo shows four men in smart casual attire…’ and the natural bridge description is ‘A paved walkway lined with stone walls…’ Character counts are displayed, and each card now features a ‘Regenerate (English)’ button if you want the AI to try again. You can also see options to ‘Show Confidence’ scores and filter your images. It is highly encouraged to add context and other detail to this “draft” that the AI may have missed and/or incorrectly depicted (cultural nuances for example).
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" data-attachment-id="18039" data-permalink="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/05/ai-alt-text-generator.html/screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10-14-14-pm-2" data-orig-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.14.14 PM-1.png" data-orig-size="1536,1464" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"0"}" data-image-title="Screenshot 2025-05-27 at 10.14.14 PM" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.14.14 PM-1-300x286.png" data-large-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.14.14 PM-1-1024x976.png" class="alignnone wp-image-18039 size-large" src="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.14.14 PM-1-1024x976.png" alt="AI Alt Text Generator after alt text has been generated. Two image cards are shown with populated alt text fields. For 'import_photos_2801.jpg', alt text describes 'four men in smart casual attire.' For 'natural-bridge.jpg', it describes 'a paved walkway lined with stone walls.' 'Regenerate' buttons are visible." width="1024" height="976" srcset="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.14.14 PM-1-1024x976.png 1024w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.14.14 PM-1-300x286.png 300w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.14.14 PM-1-768x732.png 768w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-05-27-at-10.14.14 PM-1.png 1536w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />
Further details on utilizing the tool and understanding its features are available on our <a href="https://alttextgenerator.assistivetechnologyblog.com/guidance">Guidance & Confidence Scoring page</a>.
<h2 data-sourcepos="28:1-28:65">The “Vibe Coded” Story: An Experiment in AI-Driven Development</h2>
Beyond its function in generating alt text, this tool represents a significant experiment for us, enabling us to take a significant step in the realm of Artificial Intelligence. As detailed on our <a href="https://alttextgenerator.assistivetechnologyblog.com/about">“About” page</a>, the application was developed using a method termed “<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vibe_coding">vibe coding.</a>“ This involved guiding AI with natural language prompts and a general vision, using the <a href="https://lovable.dev">Lovable.dev platform</a>, as an alternative to traditional line-by-line coding.
Given its experimental nature and reliance on the Gemini API (for which we are currently covering the operational costs), we aim to gather data on the real-world expenses of AI-driven alt text generation and application development in general, and share with the community. Your utilization of the tool will contribute valuable insights to this research.
<h2 data-sourcepos="34:1-34:90">The Power of AI, The Necessity of Human Oversight: A Partnership for Effective Alt Text</h2>
A critical aspect of this tool is understanding its intended role. While artificial intelligence offers significant potential to expedite laborious tasks, this generator is designed to augment human judgment, not supplant it. It functions as an efficient assistant, providing initial drafts. The user’s expertise, cultural understanding, and contextual knowledge remain essential for refining and approving the alt text to ensure it is both meaningful and accurate.
As our on-site guidance on our <a href="https://alttextgenerator.assistivetechnologyblog.com/tips-and-considerations">Tips & Considerations page</a> further elaborates:
<h3 data-sourcepos="40:1-40:29">Benefits of AI Assistance</h3>
<ul data-sourcepos="42:1-46:0">
<li data-sourcepos="42:1-42:191">Streamlined Workflow & Reduced Effort: Substantially decreases manual labor and cognitive load, particularly for large image sets or for users who find extensive typing challenging.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="43:1-43:143">Enhanced Quality Control: Confidence scores assist in prioritizing review efforts on descriptions where the AI indicates lower certainty.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="44:1-44:162">Democratizing Access: Offers AI-powered tools for multiple languages, including many from the Global South, potentially fostering greater digital inclusion.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="45:1-46:0">Valuable Learning Insights: Observing the AI’s performance can deepen understanding of effective alt text characteristics.</li>
</ul>
<h3 data-sourcepos="47:1-47:62">Key Considerations: The Indispensable Role of Human Review</h3>
<ul data-sourcepos="49:1-53:0">
<li data-sourcepos="49:1-49:155">Risk of Overreliance: Even AI suggestions with “high confidence” can overlook vital context or nuance. Critical human review is always necessary.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="50:1-50:225">Accuracy in Diverse Languages: AI models may exhibit lower accuracy or cultural sensitivity for languages underrepresented in their training data. Native understanding and cultural awareness are paramount during review.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="51:1-51:182">Potential for Bias: AI systems can reflect biases present in their training datasets. Vigilant human oversight is required to ensure fair, equitable, and accurate descriptions.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="52:1-53:0">Legal Compliance: Human review and approval are crucial for meeting accessibility standards and requirements.</li>
</ul>
It is important to remember: the AI generates; the user validates and perfects. Your role encompasses ensuring accuracy, contextual relevance, cultural sensitivity, conciseness, and the avoidance of redundancy.
<h2 data-sourcepos="56:1-56:53">Tested and Validated: Insights from Juanita Lillie</h2>
We were privileged to have Juanita Lillie test the new AI-Powered Alt Text Generator using VoiceOver on her iPhone.
Juanita, based in Michigan, is a lifelong blindness advocate with years of experience collaborating with others to enhance interdependence and access. We first connected with Juanita several years ago through her impactful advocacy in the assistive technology space. While now employed full-time, she continues to lead and support various advocacy projects and manages <a href="https://www.facebook.com/LeaderDogBaylor">A Blind Advocate, </a> a platform where she shares real-life experiences, resources, and straightforward insights.
Juanita provided detailed and thoughtful feedback, noting her appreciation for the tool. She observed that while tools exist for blind and low-vision individuals to create alternative text, this tool is notable for enabling sighted individuals to easily generate alt text as well. She particularly valued its availability for general use.
We are very grateful for Juanita’s time, perspective, and continued collaboration. Her positive feedback affirms the tool’s potential utility and user-friendliness.
<h2 data-sourcepos="66:1-66:44">We Invite Your Participation and Feedback</h2>
We invite you to explore the <a href="https://alttextgenerator.assistivetechnologyblog.com/">AI Alt Text Generator</a>.
As previously stated, the tool is free to use during this experimental phase. Your usage and, importantly, your feedback are highly valuable. We welcome your input on:
<ul data-sourcepos="74:1-78:0">
<li data-sourcepos="74:1-74:25">The tool’s ease of use.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="75:1-75:43">The quality of the AI-generated alt text.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="76:1-76:67">Any issues encountered, particularly with assistive technologies.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="77:1-78:0">Suggestions for improvement.</li>
</ul>
Kindly share your feedback via our <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/contact">Contact page.</a>
We are pleased to offer this tool to our community. It is our belief that by combining the capabilities of AI with essential human oversight, significant progress can be made in enhancing digital accessibility for all users. We anticipate your feedback.
<hr data-sourcepos="83:1-83:3" /></div>
The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/05/ai-alt-text-generator.html">Enhancing Digital Accessibility: Introducing Our New AI-Powered Alt Text Generator</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.
]]></content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Easier for Everyone: A Look at Apple’s Upcoming Powerful New Accessibility Features (2025)</title>
<link>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/05/apple-new-accessibility-features-2025-explained.html</link>
<comments>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/05/apple-new-accessibility-features-2025-explained.html#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Venkat]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Sun, 18 May 2025 17:59:40 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Apple]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Artificial Intelligence]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Vision]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/?p=18020</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Apple announced exciting new accessibility features for 2025! Discover Braille Access, Magnifier for Mac, Accessibility Reader, Live Captions on Apple Watch & more. Learn how they boost independence.
The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/05/apple-new-accessibility-features-2025-explained.html">Easier for Everyone: A Look at Apple’s Upcoming Powerful New Accessibility Features (2025)</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.
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<a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/category/apple">Apple</a> recently shared some exciting news about powerful new features designed to make their devices even more accessible later this year. These tools aim to help people of all abilities use their iPhones, iPads, Macs, Apple Watches, and even Apple Vision Pro more easily, independently, and productively.
Making technology work for everyone is incredibly important, and these updates show how Apple is using clever technology like machine learning to create brand new ways for people to interact with their devices and the world around them. Let’s break down some of the most significant new features announced.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-knowing-what-you-can-use-accessibility-nutrition-labels-on-the-app-store">Knowing What You Can Use: Accessibility Nutrition Labels on the App Store</h2>
Imagine shopping for groceries and seeing a label that tells you if the food meets your dietary needs or has allergens. Apple is doing something similar for apps! “Accessibility Nutrition Labels” are coming to the App Store.
Before you download an app or game, you’ll see a clear section showing which accessibility features it supports – things like if it works well with screen readers (VoiceOver for blind users), supports larger text, uses high contrast colors for better visibility, offers reduced motion for sensitive users, provides captions for videos, and lots more.
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>How this helps: This is a game-changer for avoiding frustration. You can quickly see if an app is designed to work for you before you even download it, saving time, effort, and disappointment. It helps you confidently choose apps that fit your specific needs and use them independently.</li>
<li>Who benefits: This is incredibly helpful for anyone who uses accessibility features, especially people who are blind or have low vision, are deaf or hard of hearing, or need adjustments for reading or interaction. Developers also benefit by being able to clearly show users how accessible their apps are.</li>
</ul>

<figure data-carousel-extra='{"blog_id":1,"permalink":"https:\/\/assistivetechnologyblog.com\/2025\/05\/apple-new-accessibility-features-2025-explained.html"}' class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-3 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="731" height="1024" data-attachment-id="18022" data-permalink="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/05/apple-new-accessibility-features-2025-explained.html/apple-accessibility-features-app-store-nutrition-labels-cvs-health-app-3" data-orig-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-App-Store-Nutrition-Labels-CVS-Health-app-2-scaled.jpg" data-orig-size="1829,2560" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"0"}" data-image-title="Apple-accessibility-features-App-Store-Nutrition-Labels-CVS-Health-app" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-App-Store-Nutrition-Labels-CVS-Health-app-2-214x300.jpg" data-large-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-App-Store-Nutrition-Labels-CVS-Health-app-2-731x1024.jpg" data-id="18022" src="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-App-Store-Nutrition-Labels-CVS-Health-app-2-731x1024.jpg" alt="A close-up image features an iPhone displaying the App Store screen for the "CVS Pharmacy" app, detailing accessibility features and app information as part of nutrition label; the accessibility section lists support for VoiceOver, sufficient contrast, captions, differentiate without color alone, and reduced motion, while the app information section shows the seller as "CVS Pharmacy," size as "384.2 MB," and category as "Shopping." The App Store navigation bar is visible at the bottom of the screen with the Apps icon highlighted, indicating that it is currently being viewed." class="wp-image-18022" srcset="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-App-Store-Nutrition-Labels-CVS-Health-app-2-731x1024.jpg 731w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-App-Store-Nutrition-Labels-CVS-Health-app-2-214x300.jpg 214w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-App-Store-Nutrition-Labels-CVS-Health-app-2-768x1075.jpg 768w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-App-Store-Nutrition-Labels-CVS-Health-app-2-1097x1536.jpg 1097w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-App-Store-Nutrition-Labels-CVS-Health-app-2-1463x2048.jpg 1463w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-App-Store-Nutrition-Labels-CVS-Health-app-2-scaled.jpg 1829w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 731px) 100vw, 731px" /></figure>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="732" height="1024" data-attachment-id="18021" data-permalink="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/05/apple-new-accessibility-features-2025-explained.html/apple-accessibility-features-app-store-nutrition-labels-apple-fitness-app_inline-jpg-large_2x-3" data-orig-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-App-Store-Nutrition-Labels-Apple-Fitness-app_inline-2.jpg.large_2x-2.jpg" data-orig-size="1306,1828" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"0"}" data-image-title="Apple-accessibility-features-App-Store-Nutrition-Labels-Apple-Fitness-app_inline.jpg.large_2x" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-App-Store-Nutrition-Labels-Apple-Fitness-app_inline-2.jpg.large_2x-2-214x300.jpg" data-large-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-App-Store-Nutrition-Labels-Apple-Fitness-app_inline-2.jpg.large_2x-2-732x1024.jpg" data-id="18021" src="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-App-Store-Nutrition-Labels-Apple-Fitness-app_inline-2.jpg.large_2x-2-732x1024.jpg" alt="This image shows an iPhone screen displaying the nutrition label Accessibility features supported by an app in the App Store. The screen lists features such as VoiceOver, Voice Control, Larger Text, Dark Interface, and Captions." class="wp-image-18021" srcset="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-App-Store-Nutrition-Labels-Apple-Fitness-app_inline-2.jpg.large_2x-2-732x1024.jpg 732w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-App-Store-Nutrition-Labels-Apple-Fitness-app_inline-2.jpg.large_2x-2-214x300.jpg 214w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-App-Store-Nutrition-Labels-Apple-Fitness-app_inline-2.jpg.large_2x-2-768x1075.jpg 768w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-App-Store-Nutrition-Labels-Apple-Fitness-app_inline-2.jpg.large_2x-2-1097x1536.jpg 1097w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-App-Store-Nutrition-Labels-Apple-Fitness-app_inline-2.jpg.large_2x-2.jpg 1306w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" /></figure>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bringing-the-physical-world-to-your-screen-magnifier-for-mac">Bringing the Physical World to Your Screen: Magnifier for Mac</h2>
Many people use the Magnifier app on their iPhone or iPad to zoom in on small print or distant objects in the real world using their phone’s camera. Now, this powerful tool is coming to your Mac! The new “Magnifier app for Mac” lets you use your computer’s camera (or even your iPhone camera with a feature called Continuity Camera, or another connected camera) to get a super close-up view of anything in front of it. Think of it like a high-tech magnifying glass connected to your big Mac screen.
You can zoom in on a book on your desk, a receipt, a whiteboard across the room, or even physical objects. You can also adjust settings like brightness, contrast, and colors to make things easier to see, and even view multiple things at once – maybe a presentation on screen and a document on your desk side-by-side. It also works with the new Accessibility Reader (more on that below) to make physical text easier to read.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Magnifier on Mac | Apple" width="650" height="366" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/R3rBlZGEssw?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>How this helps: This makes interacting with the physical world much easier and more independent if you have low vision. You can read documents right on your desk, follow along with presentations, or examine objects without needing a separate handheld magnifier or struggling to see. It brings the physical world right into your computer workspace.</li>
<li>Who benefits: This feature is a major benefit for users with low vision.</li>
</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Breakthrough for Braille Users: Braille Access</h2>
This is a truly groundbreaking feature! “Braille Access” transforms your Apple device (iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple Vision Pro) into a complete, full-featured braille note-taking tool. Instead of needing a separate, dedicated braille note-taker device (which can be very expensive), you can now use braille directly on your Apple device.
This feature is deeply integrated, allowing you to use braille input (on-screen or with a connected braille display) to type notes, do math problems using a special braille code called Nemeth Braille, open and read common braille files, and even control your apps directly. A really cool part is being able to see “Live Captions” (real-time text transcriptions of spoken words) appear directly on your connected braille display during conversations.
<figure data-carousel-extra='{"blog_id":1,"permalink":"https:\/\/assistivetechnologyblog.com\/2025\/05\/apple-new-accessibility-features-2025-explained.html"}' class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-4 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="732" height="1024" data-attachment-id="18024" data-permalink="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/05/apple-new-accessibility-features-2025-explained.html/apple-accessibility-features-braille-access-01_inline-jpg-large_2x" data-orig-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Braille-Access-01_inline.jpg.large_2x.jpg" data-orig-size="1306,1828" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"0"}" data-image-title="Apple-accessibility-features-Braille-Access-01_inline.jpg.large_2x" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Braille-Access-01_inline.jpg.large_2x-214x300.jpg" data-large-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Braille-Access-01_inline.jpg.large_2x-732x1024.jpg" data-id="18024" src="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Braille-Access-01_inline.jpg.large_2x-732x1024.jpg" alt="An iPhone displays the "Braille Access" menu with options such as "Launch App," "Choose Item," "Braille Notes," "BRF Files," an equation, "Live Captions," and "Close," all set against a dark background. The phone itself is centered against a white backdrop." class="wp-image-18024" srcset="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Braille-Access-01_inline.jpg.large_2x-732x1024.jpg 732w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Braille-Access-01_inline.jpg.large_2x-214x300.jpg 214w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Braille-Access-01_inline.jpg.large_2x-768x1075.jpg 768w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Braille-Access-01_inline.jpg.large_2x-1097x1536.jpg 1097w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Braille-Access-01_inline.jpg.large_2x.jpg 1306w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" /></figure>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="732" height="1024" data-attachment-id="18023" data-permalink="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/05/apple-new-accessibility-features-2025-explained.html/apple-accessibility-features-braille-access-02_inline-jpg-large_2x" data-orig-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Braille-Access-02_inline.jpg.large_2x.jpg" data-orig-size="1306,1828" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"0"}" data-image-title="Apple-accessibility-features-Braille-Access-02_inline.jpg.large_2x" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Braille-Access-02_inline.jpg.large_2x-214x300.jpg" data-large-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Braille-Access-02_inline.jpg.large_2x-732x1024.jpg" data-id="18023" src="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Braille-Access-02_inline.jpg.large_2x-732x1024.jpg" alt="The image shows a close-up of an iPhone screen displaying a "Braille Access" interface with several text snippets, each accompanied by braille dots, suggesting a feature designed for visually impaired users. The text includes phrases like "This is a key part of his character," "By the time he returns to Ithaca," and ends with the question "Who has a strong point of view here?"" class="wp-image-18023" srcset="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Braille-Access-02_inline.jpg.large_2x-732x1024.jpg 732w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Braille-Access-02_inline.jpg.large_2x-214x300.jpg 214w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Braille-Access-02_inline.jpg.large_2x-768x1075.jpg 768w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Braille-Access-02_inline.jpg.large_2x-1097x1536.jpg 1097w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Braille-Access-02_inline.jpg.large_2x.jpg 1306w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" /></figure>
</figure>
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<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>How this helps: This opens up incredible new levels of independence and productivity for braille users. It integrates braille seamlessly into your daily digital life, making tasks like note-taking in class or meetings, doing homework, reading books, and accessing information much more fluid and potentially more affordable compared to relying solely on traditional braille note-takers. Seeing live conversations in braille format is a powerful new way to participate.</li>
<li>Who benefits: This feature is specifically designed for users who are blind and rely on braille for reading, writing, and communication, including students and professionals.</li>
</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Making Reading Easier, Anywhere: Accessibility Reader</h2>
Reading on screens can be tough for many reasons, whether it’s due to small fonts, cluttered layouts, or specific reading difficulties. “Accessibility Reader” is a new reading mode available across Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Vision Pro) designed to make text easier to read for everyone, especially if you have challenges like dyslexia or low vision.
It strips away distractions and lets you customize how text appears – you have extensive options to change the font, size, color, line spacing, and even have the text spoken aloud to you (using Spoken Content). You can use it in any app, and it’s built into the Magnifier app too, meaning you can even use it to make physical text (like in books or on menus) easier to read after you’ve captured it with Magnifier.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="731" data-attachment-id="18025" data-permalink="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/05/apple-new-accessibility-features-2025-explained.html/apple-accessibility-features-accessibility-reader_big-jpg-large_2x" data-orig-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Accessibility-Reader_big.jpg.large_2x.jpg" data-orig-size="1960,1400" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"0"}" data-image-title="Apple-accessibility-features-Accessibility-Reader_big.jpg.large_2x" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Accessibility-Reader_big.jpg.large_2x-300x214.jpg" data-large-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Accessibility-Reader_big.jpg.large_2x-1024x731.jpg" src="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Accessibility-Reader_big.jpg.large_2x-1024x731.jpg" alt="Two iPhones are positioned side-by-side displaying the same passage from Homer's "The Odyssey" Book I, one with a light mode interface showing the Project Gutenberg ebook and the other in dark mode presenting the text as an audiobook with playback controls. Both screens display the same text, but the light mode features full paragraphs while the dark mode presents a simplified version with an audio player at the bottom." class="wp-image-18025" srcset="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Accessibility-Reader_big.jpg.large_2x-1024x731.jpg 1024w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Accessibility-Reader_big.jpg.large_2x-300x214.jpg 300w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Accessibility-Reader_big.jpg.large_2x-768x549.jpg 768w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Accessibility-Reader_big.jpg.large_2x-1536x1097.jpg 1536w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Accessibility-Reader_big.jpg.large_2x.jpg 1960w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
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<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>How this helps: This puts the control of the reading experience firmly in your hands. You can adjust the text to your specific needs, making reading faster, less tiring, and more enjoyable. Being able to apply these settings anywhere you read, both on-screen and in the physical world, is a huge advantage for staying productive and independent.</li>
<li>Who benefits: This is excellent for people with dyslexia, low vision, or anyone who struggles with standard text readability on screens.</li>
</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Seeing What’s Said on Your Wrist: Live Captions on Apple Watch</h2>
Apple’s “Live Listen” feature already lets you use your iPhone as a microphone to send sounds directly to your compatible headphones or hearing aids, helping you hear conversations or sounds better from a distance. Now, they’ve added “Live Captions” directly to your Apple Watch!
While Live Listen is active on your iPhone, you’ll see a real-time text transcription of what the iPhone hears, appearing moment-by-moment right on your watch face. You can also use your watch to control the Live Listen session – start or stop it, or jump back slightly if you missed something – all without needing to grab your phone.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="1024" data-attachment-id="18027" data-permalink="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/05/apple-new-accessibility-features-2025-explained.html/apple-accessibility-features-live-listen_inline-jpg-large_2x" data-orig-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Live-Listen_inline.jpg.large_2x.jpg" data-orig-size="1306,1306" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"0"}" data-image-title="Apple-accessibility-features-Live-Listen_inline.jpg.large_2x" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Live-Listen_inline.jpg.large_2x-300x300.jpg" data-large-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Live-Listen_inline.jpg.large_2x-1024x1024.jpg" src="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Live-Listen_inline.jpg.large_2x-1024x1024.jpg" alt="A close-up shot displays a gold-colored smartphone next to a black smartwatch, both against a light gray background and showcasing the "Live Listen" caption feature; the phone’s screen shows the blurred interface with a "Live Listen On" message, while the smartwatch displays the transcribed caption of an audio recording. Both devices display the same text, which states "All right, everyone we've been exploring the journey of Odysseus and I want to focus on his character arc"." class="wp-image-18027" srcset="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Live-Listen_inline.jpg.large_2x-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Live-Listen_inline.jpg.large_2x-300x300.jpg 300w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Live-Listen_inline.jpg.large_2x-150x150.jpg 150w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Live-Listen_inline.jpg.large_2x-768x768.jpg 768w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Apple-accessibility-features-Live-Listen_inline.jpg.large_2x.jpg 1306w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
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<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>How this helps: This is a game-changer for discreetly following conversations, lectures, meetings, or presentations from a distance. You can simply glance at your wrist to read the captions, giving you a new level of participation, understanding, and independence in various settings without having to constantly handle or look at your phone.</li>
<li>Who benefits: This feature is specifically for users who are deaf or hard of hearing.</li>
</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Seeing More with Spatial Computing: Enhanced Accessibility on Apple Vision Pro</h2>
Apple Vision Pro, the new spatial computer you wear, is also getting some powerful accessibility updates that use its advanced cameras and technology. Updates to features like “Zoom” let you magnify not just digital content, but the physical world around you that the Vision Pro sees. “Live Recognition” uses smart computer vision (a form of AI) to describe your surroundings, identify objects, and read text for you (if you use VoiceOver). Plus, a new tool for developers means approved accessibility apps (like Be My Eyes, which connects sighted volunteers with blind users for visual assistance) can now access the Vision Pro camera to provide live, person-to-person help with visual interpretation.

<figure class="wp-block-video"><video controls src="https://www.apple.com/newsroom/videos/2025/autoplay/05/apple-accessibility-features-apple-vision-pro-zoom/large_2x.mp4"></video></figure>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>How this helps: This makes navigating and understanding your environment much easier and more independent when using Vision Pro. You get hands-free visual assistance, whether from AI descriptions or connecting with a human helper, opening up new possibilities for interacting with the world around you while experiencing spatial computing.</li>
<li>Who benefits: These updates are particularly helpful for users who are blind or have low vision and are using or considering using Apple Vision Pro.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Other Helpful Tools: Head Tracking & Shortcuts</h3>
Apple is also adding other useful features, including “Head Tracking,” which will allow you to control your iPhone or iPad using just movements of your head. This provides a new hands-free way to navigate and interact with your device. There are also new “Shortcuts,” like “Hold That Thought” to quickly capture ideas so you don’t forget them, and an “Accessibility Assistant” shortcut on Vision Pro to help you find accessibility features that best suit your needs.
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>How this helps: Head Tracking offers a new input method for people who have difficulty using their hands. The new Shortcuts help streamline tasks and make finding accessibility settings easier.</li>
<li>Who benefits: Head Tracking is great for users with mobility impairments affecting their hands. Shortcuts can benefit anyone looking to automate tasks or get quick assistance with finding features, but the Accessibility Assistant is particularly helpful for new or existing users exploring accessibility options.</li>
</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What This All Means: More Independence and New Possibilities</h2>
These new features represent a significant step forward in making technology truly usable for a wider range of people. They aren’t just minor tweaks; they are powerful tools that leverage Apple’s hardware and software working together to create new possibilities for independence and productivity.
Consider the Braille Access feature, for example. In the past, a braille user needing a portable device for notes, calculations, and reading would often need a separate, dedicated braille note-taker that could cost thousands of dollars and might not connect easily with their other devices. Now, their iPhone or iPad can become that note-taker, seamlessly integrated with their apps, cloud storage, and communication tools. This levels the playing field and offers unprecedented flexibility and affordability.
Similarly, Magnifier for Mac and Accessibility Reader working together allow someone with low vision to not only magnify physical text but also transform it into a format they can read comfortably or have read aloud, removing barriers to accessing printed information like books, menus, or documents in ways that weren’t easily possible before on a computer. Live Captions on Apple Watch offers a subtle, real-time way for deaf or hard of hearing individuals to follow conversations in public or professional settings, fostering greater inclusion.
While companies like Google and Microsoft also offer many valuable accessibility features – Google has tools like TalkBack, Live Transcribe, and magnification, and Microsoft offers Narrator, Magnifier, and immersive reading modes – Apple’s strength is often in the deep integration across its ecosystem. These new features demonstrate how Apple designs accessibility directly into the core of its operating systems and hardware, allowing powerful features like Braille Access or the combined Magnifier and Reader to work smoothly across different devices and in many different apps.
Overall, these announcements highlight a future where technology adapts more powerfully to the individual, rather than requiring the individual to adapt to the technology. They open doors to greater participation, learning, work, and connection for people with disabilities, empowering them to live more independent and productive lives.
<a href="https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2025/05/apple-unveils-powerful-accessibility-features-coming-later-this-year/">Source: Apple</a>
Statement of AI Assistance:
This blog post was generated with the assistance of Google Gemini. Gemini was provided a detailed prompt to analyze the provided text of the Apple press release announcing new accessibility features, identify the key features and details within that text, and synthesize the information into the structured blog post format, explaining each feature in simple language, identifying the target audience and benefits, and drafting the conclusion based on the specific requirements provided. Is this a good use of Generative AI? Why or why not? Let me know in the comments below!
 
The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/05/apple-new-accessibility-features-2025-explained.html">Easier for Everyone: A Look at Apple’s Upcoming Powerful New Accessibility Features (2025)</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.
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<title>Unleashing Musical Potential: How Google’s Music AI Sandbox Can Harmonize with Accessibility</title>
<link>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/05/google-music-ai-sandbox-accessibility-disabilities.html</link>
<comments>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/05/google-music-ai-sandbox-accessibility-disabilities.html#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Venkat]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Thu, 08 May 2025 19:44:31 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Artificial Intelligence]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Music]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/?p=17999</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Discover how Google's Music AI Sandbox is opening doors for musicians with disabilities, offering new ways to create and express through AI-powered tools like text-to-music generation.
The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/05/google-music-ai-sandbox-accessibility-disabilities.html">Unleashing Musical Potential: How Google’s Music AI Sandbox Can Harmonize with Accessibility</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<div id="model-response-message-contentr_5f9878e7fce7d18c" class="markdown markdown-main-panel tutor-markdown-rendering has-thoughts enable-updated-hr-color" dir="ltr">
<a href="https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2019/11/new-harvard-study-establishes-music-is-universal/">Music is a universal language</a>, a powerful form of expression that resonates deeply with individuals from all walks of life. Today, the toolkit available to musicians is expanding dramatically, with Artificial Intelligence emerging as a transformative force. <a href="https://deepmind.google/discover/blog/music-ai-sandbox-now-with-new-features-and-broader-access/">Google’s Music AI Sandbox</a>, a suite of experimental tools developed in collaboration with musicians and powered by their latest Lyria 2 model, stands at the forefront of this innovation. While offering exciting new avenues for all creators, this technology holds particular promise for enhancing accessibility and empowering musicians and aspiring musicians with disabilities.
Traditionally, creating music could present significant barriers for individuals with certain disabilities. Physical limitations might make playing traditional instruments challenging. Visual impairments could hinder reading sheet music or navigating complex digital audio workstations (DAWs). Cognitive differences might impact the process of composition or arrangement. However, the Music AI Sandbox, with its intuitive, AI-driven features, suggests a future where these barriers can be significantly lowered, opening doors to unprecedented creative freedom.
The core functionalities of the Music AI Sandbox – Create, Extend, and Edit – offer compelling possibilities for accessible music creation:
<ul data-sourcepos="9:1-12:0">
<li data-sourcepos="9:1-9:588">Create: Imagine being able to generate musical ideas simply by describing them in text prompts. For someone with motor impairments who finds traditional instrument input difficult, this text-to-music capability, powered by models like Lyria 2, can be a game-changer. As seen in the collaboration with Indian music icon Shankar Mahadevan, users can request specific instruments like the dholak and tabla, or evoke moods and genres through language. This allows the musician’s creative vision to be translated into sound without the need for complex physical interaction. Video description: The video below shows the Music AI Sandbox interface for creating AI-generated music. The main creation panel displays the input prompt “futuristic country music, steel guitar, huge 808s, synthwave elements” with lyrics that read “Neon night, blue and cold / Heart’s a story, yet untold / Lost in time, and lost in space.” The interface includes a timeline visualization of the audio waveform, settings for BPM (set to 120), key selection, and song section options for Intro and Outro. Additional features visible include buttons for Create, Extend, Edit, and Help. On the right side, there’s a list of previously generated tracks including “Lost Sunrise,” “Forgotten Sunrise,” and multiple versions of “Ten to Life” with their waveform visualizations. A purple “Generate” button appears at the bottom of the creation panel. The interface demonstrates how to use the Music AI Sandbox’s Create feature to generate music from text prompts and lyrics.</li>
</ul>
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<source src="https://deepmind.google/api/blob/website/media/AS-1000_Create_Short.mp4" type="video/mp4" /></video>
<ul data-sourcepos="9:1-12:0">
<li data-sourcepos="10:1-10:488">Extend: Overcoming creative blocks or developing existing musical phrases can be a hurdle for any musician. The Extend feature, which generates continuations of uploaded or generated audio clips, provides an AI collaborator that can offer fresh perspectives and expand musical ideas. This can be particularly valuable for individuals who might find sustained composition challenging due to cognitive or physical fatigue, providing a springboard for further development.</li>
</ul>
Video description: The video below shows the Music AI Sandbox interface in extend mode. The main audio editing area displays a waveform visualization for a track called “Lost Sunrise” with a turquoise audio waveform pattern. The interface includes playback controls (00:00:0 timestamp, play button, and volume controls) and editing options. The “Extend” section is active, with instructions to “Add audio to the beginning or end of your clip” and suggesting to include about 10 seconds in the Gen region. Below is a lyrics input area labeled “Add vocals to your clip” and a “Set Seed” option. On the right side is a list of previously generated tracks including “Lost Sunrise” (shown as “Edited 2 min ago”), “Forgotten Sunrise” (Extended 5 min ago), and multiple versions of “Ten to Life” with their corresponding waveform visualizations. A teal “Generate” button appears at the bottom right. The interface allows users to modify, extend, and add vocals to AI-generated music clips.
<video controls="controls" width="1200" height="600">
<source src="https://deepmind.google/api/blob/website/media/AS-1000_Extend_Short_2wGRE4T.mp4" type="video/mp4" /></video>
<ul data-sourcepos="9:1-12:0">
<li data-sourcepos="11:1-12:0">Edit: The ability to transform the mood, genre, or style of a musical piece through simple controls or text prompts offers a level of flexibility that can greatly benefit musicians with diverse needs. Visually impaired musicians, for example, might find navigating traditional editing interfaces difficult. Text-based editing within the Sandbox could allow for nuanced control over the sonic landscape using verbal commands or simplified interfaces.</li>
</ul>
Video description: This image shows the Edit interface of Music AI Sandbox. The main workspace displays an audio track at timestamp 00:25:7 with a waveform visualization that transitions from blue to pink segments, labeled “Ten to Life intro” and “Ten to Life 4.” A transformation curve appears below the waveform, showing varying degrees of transformation from “No change” to “Totally new.” The editing panel includes lyrics “Gilded cage, fools dream / I’m reminded of your love” and a detailed prompt description: “futuristic country music, steel guitar, huge 808s, synthwave elements, space western, cosmic twang, soaring vocals.” The interface includes standard controls like Create, Extend, Edit, Help, and Feedback buttons on the left side. On the right side is a library of previously generated tracks including “Lost Sunrise,” “Forgotten Sunrise,” and multiple versions of “Ten to Life” with their respective waveform visualizations. A purple “Generate” button appears at the bottom of the editing panel. The interface demonstrates how to edit AI-generated music by transforming specific sections and adding new lyrical content.
<video controls="controls" width="1200" height="600">
<source src="https://deepmind.google/api/blob/website/media/AS-1000_Edit_Short_nv3Iiss.mp4" type="video/mp4" /></video>
The development of the Music AI Sandbox has been a collaborative process, guided by feedback from musicians, producers, and songwriters. This inclusive approach is crucial for ensuring that the tools are not only powerful but also practical and adaptable to a wide range of needs and creative workflows. As the platform expands access to more musicians, gathering feedback from the disability community will be vital in shaping future iterations and maximizing its accessibility features.
The potential extends beyond individual creation. Tools like <a href="https://deepmind.google/technologies/lyria/realtime/">Lyria RealTime</a> hint at possibilities for real-time interactive music-making, which could be explored for collaborative performances or therapeutic applications.Imagine adaptive interfaces powered by AI that respond to alternative input methods, allowing musicians to perform and control music in innovative ways tailored to their abilities.
While existing assistive technologies like switch-adapted instruments, eye-tracking software, and motion controllers have already done much to democratize music creation and performance, the integration of advanced AI models like those in the Music AI Sandbox can elevate these possibilities further. <a href="https://soundful.com/can-ai-music-composition-replace-human-composition/">AI can understand and interpret a wider range of inputs</a>, generate more sophisticated and nuanced musical outputs, and potentially adapt and personalize the creative process to an unprecedented degree.
The journey of exploring the intersection of AI and music creation is ongoing. The work with artists like Shankar Mahadevan demonstrates the power of these tools to <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2023/08/jump-the-moon-empowering-artistic-inclusivity-with-adaptive-technology.html">spark inspiration and facilitate exploration</a>. By actively considering the needs of musicians with disabilities throughout the development process, Google’s Music AI Sandbox has the potential to become a truly inclusive platform, empowering individuals of all musical inclinations and talents to express themselves and share their unique voices with the world. The opportunity to harmonize cutting-edge AI with the principles of accessibility is not just a technical challenge, but a chance to enrich the global musical landscape and ensure that the joy of music creation is accessible to everyone.
Interested in trying Google’s Music AI Sandbox? Visit the <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfmU9T4KF-3ks57ACPnXqz4f9CX4guYEJrDhYSft9zAZItn_w/viewform">Music AI Sandbox interest form</a> to sign up.
</div>
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<iframe loading="lazy" title="Shankar Mahadevan x Music AI | Google Lab Sessions" width="650" height="366" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7Rz3m0QtFMs?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Source: <a href="https://blog.google/technology/ai/lab-session-shankar-mahadevan/">Google Blog</a>, <a href="https://deepmind.google/discover/blog/music-ai-sandbox-now-with-new-features-and-broader-access/">Google DeepMind</a>
The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/05/google-music-ai-sandbox-accessibility-disabilities.html">Unleashing Musical Potential: How Google’s Music AI Sandbox Can Harmonize with Accessibility</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.
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<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">17999</post-id> </item>
<item>
<title>Making a Splash: Olathe Increases Water Accessibility with New Fleet of Water Wheelchairs</title>
<link>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/04/olathe-accessible-water-wheelchairs.html</link>
<comments>https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/04/olathe-accessible-water-wheelchairs.html#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Venkat]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Mon, 28 Apr 2025 14:57:09 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Fitness]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Lifestyle]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Mobility]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Wheelchair]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/?p=17986</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Discover how the City of Olathe is enhancing inclusive recreation with the addition of unique water wheelchairs at its pools and Lake Olathe, thanks to a partnership with Variety KC. Learn about the impact of this adaptive equipment on youth accessibility and explore how other cities globally can pursue similar goals.
The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/04/olathe-accessible-water-wheelchairs.html">Making a Splash: Olathe Increases Water Accessibility with New Fleet of Water Wheelchairs</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
The City of Olathe has taken a significant step towards greater inclusivity by introducing a fleet of unique water wheelchairs at its aquatic facilities, including local pools and Lake Olathe. This initiative, made possible through a collaboration with <a href="https://varietykc.org">Variety KC</a>, a non-profit dedicated to providing adaptive equipment and opportunities for children with disabilities, aims to remove barriers and allow more youth to experience the joy of water-based activities. The addition of these specialized wheelchairs means that individuals with mobility challenges can more easily access and navigate the pool decks and even enter the water, fostering a more welcoming environment for everyone.
While the acquisition of water wheelchairs is undoubtedly a positive development and a commendable effort towards enhancing accessibility, it is important to consider the broader scope of inclusive recreation. While physical access to the water is crucial, true inclusion encompasses more than just equipment. Are there trained staff available to assist users of the water wheelchairs? Are the surrounding facilities, such as changing rooms and restrooms, fully accessible? Examining these aspects is vital to ensure that the provision of water wheelchairs is part of a comprehensive strategy for inclusive recreation, rather than an isolated solution. A critical look reveals that while the equipment is a fantastic starting point, the ecosystem of support and infrastructure around it is equally, if not more, important for sustained and meaningful inclusion.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" data-attachment-id="17987" data-permalink="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/04/olathe-accessible-water-wheelchairs.html/water-wheelchairs" data-orig-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/water-wheelchairs.jpg" data-orig-size="1140,641" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"0"}" data-image-title="water-wheelchairs" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/water-wheelchairs-300x169.jpg" data-large-file="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/water-wheelchairs-1024x576.jpg" src="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/water-wheelchairs-1024x576.jpg" alt="Five individuals stand around a white and blue water wheelchair with a "Variety the children's charity" logo next to an indoor pool. The pool has a shallow entry with water features and lounge chairs surrounding it." class="wp-image-17987" srcset="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/water-wheelchairs-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/water-wheelchairs-300x169.jpg 300w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/water-wheelchairs-768x432.jpg 768w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/water-wheelchairs-310x174.jpg 310w, https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/water-wheelchairs.jpg 1140w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
Furthermore, the long-term sustainability and impact of this program warrant consideration. How will the maintenance and upkeep of these specialized wheelchairs be managed? What plans are in place to promote the availability of this equipment to the community and ensure those who could benefit most are aware of this new resource? Addressing these questions will be key to maximizing the positive effect of this initiative and ensuring that Olathe’s aquatic facilities remain genuinely accessible and enjoyable for all residents for years to come. This move by Olathe and Variety KC is a valuable stride, and continued focus on comprehensive accessibility will amplify its impact.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-making-aquatic-and-other-activities-accessible-globally">Making aquatic (and other) activities accessible globally</h2>
For cities globally, particularly in the Global South, where budgets may be tighter and access to large non-profit organizations like Variety KC might be limited, achieving similar levels of accessible water recreation requires <a href="https://unhabitat.org/programme/inclusive-communities-thriving-cities">creative problem-solving</a> and <a href="https://unhabitat.org/programme/global-public-space-programme">community mobilization</a>. Instead of relying solely on purchasing expensive, specialized equipment, cities can explore lower-cost alternatives and leverage local resources. This could involve simple, yet effective, solutions like installing sturdy, non-slip ramps with handrails leading into shallow areas of pools or designated lake access points. Utilizing existing or locally sourced materials for these modifications can significantly reduce costs. Examples of focusing on fundamental access in public spaces in developing contexts can be seen in various initiatives aimed at creating inclusive urban environments.
Moreover,<a href="https://changingpaces.com/building-inclusive-communities-focusing-on-local-initiatives-and-community-efforts-to-promote-disability-inclusion/"> fostering partnerships with local disability advocacy groups</a>, community centers, and educational institutions can provide valuable expertise, volunteer support for assisting individuals using accessible features, and help raise awareness. <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2023/02/minnesota-accessible-playground.html">Campaigns</a> focused on the importance of inclusive recreation and soliciting community donations or in-kind contributions can also supplement limited municipal budgets. Prioritizing basic accessibility features like accessible pathways, ramps, and accessible restrooms are crucial first steps that are often more achievable and can make a substantial difference in enabling access to public aquatic spaces for individuals with mobility impairments. While high-tech water wheelchairs are ideal, a phased approach focusing on fundamental accessibility, drawing on community resources and simpler infrastructure modifications, can still significantly enhance <a href="https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/strong-center-developmental-disabilities/our-focus-areas/recreation">inclusive recreational opportunities</a> in resource-constrained environments.
<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/community/johnson-county/olathe/article304394061.html">Source: The Kansas City Star</a>
The post <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2025/04/olathe-accessible-water-wheelchairs.html">Making a Splash: Olathe Increases Water Accessibility with New Fleet of Water Wheelchairs</a> appeared first on <a href="https://assistivetechnologyblog.com">Assistive Technology Blog</a>.
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