Tech Notes
Google IO, the annual developer conference, once again amazed audiences with its groundbreaking announcements. Held on May 10, 2023 at the Shoreline Amphitheater in Mountain View, CA, this year's event showcased a wide range of exciting developments across various domains, with a less notable focus on accessibility during the keynote. In this blog post, we provide a comprehensive overview of the key accessibility-related announcements made at Google IO 2023, highlighting the remarkable innovations and technologies unveiled.
Talkback 14 and Other Android Accessibility Features
Android 14 introduces several noteworthy accessibility features for TalkBack, catering to the needs of individuals with visual and hearing impairments.
Spell Check using TalkBack is a great addition, enabling users to perform spell checks in messages, documents, and emails through the TalkBack feature. Braille support has also been improved with the utilization of Braille tables in 38 languages. The integration of the HIB protocol enhances the connectivity of Braille displays. Additionally, TalkBack 14 introduces new gestures for the on-screen Braille keyboard, including cut, copy, and paste functions, providing greater accessibility for users. An on-screen Braille keyboard also now enables TalkBack users to perform cursor movement, text selection, and editing.
The non-linear font scaling feature allows low-vision users to scale up text by up to 200% while maintaining a balanced and readable appearance. This feature adheres to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and ensures that text elements, such as headings, do not become disproportionately large.
For individuals with hearing impairments, Android 14 introduces notification flashes. This feature utilizes the camera flash and display to provide visual notifications. Users can customize the settings to enable the camera flash, display flash, or both simultaneously.
Improvements have been made to hearing aid compatibility, simplifying the setup process for new hearing aid devices. A dedicated setting page has been introduced under the “Accessibility” options, allowing users to easily configure their hearing devices and access the settings conveniently. A toggleable compatibility setting is also available. Lookout, an application designed for the blind and low-vision community, has been enhanced to describe digital images using AI analysis. This feature, known as "Image Q&A mode," can identify and provide descriptions of images, offering greater accessibility to individuals who rely on assistive technology.
These accessibility features and improvements in Android 14 demonstrate Google's commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can navigate and interact with their devices more effectively.
Wear OS 4
Wear OS 4 received updates in battery life, backup and restoration capabilities, and seamless integration with smart home devices. The text-to-speech feature was revamped for a better user experience, and a more advanced and intuitive wearable experience is promised.
Google Maps Evolution
Google Maps underwent significant evolution, introducing features such as immersive view for routes and improved accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Accessible destinations are now displayed by default, making it easier to identify wheelchair-accessible locations.
Chrome
Chrome on desktop and mobile now provides suggestions for incorrect URLs, benefiting users with dyslexia or language disabilities as well as anyone prone to making typing errors. TalkBack on Chrome for Android has also received new features, enabling users to efficiently manage and organize browser tabs.
Privacy and Security Enhancements
Google prioritized privacy and security at Google IO 2023, introducing notable enhancements to Android 14, including the ability to disable PIN animations, which adds an extra layer of security by preventing others from figuring out your PIN while observing you. Additionally, users now receive alerts regarding unknown trackers in their vicinity, helping them identify potential security risks such as rogue AirTags. Assuming TalkBack correctly announces the notification of a rogue tag, this feature becomes highly valuable in preventing anyone from discreetly placing an unauthorized tag into your bag without your knowledge. Additionally, it proves helpful in situations where a friend or family member may have lost a tag within your home, allowing you to quickly identify and locate it. Transparency and control were improved by indicating when the microphone or camera is being accessed. The Find My Device feature received significant updates, allowing users to locate misplaced items using a network of Android devices. These enhancements contribute to user safety and data protection.
AI-Powered Language Models
At this year's Google IO keynote, the central focus shifted towards AI and machine learning, highlighting their potential to benefit individuals with disabilities, although accessibility was not extensively discussed. Google showcased remarkable advancements, particularly in natural language processing (NLP). Notably, PaLM 2, a new Large Language Model (LLM) tailored for Dialogue Applications, played a pivotal role in powering the updated Bard chat tool, competing with OpenAI's ChatGPT. This integration aims to create an inclusive conversational experience for all users, including those with disabilities.
The showcased advancements in AI and machine learning hold inherent potential to aid individuals with disabilities despite the limited emphasis on accessibility during the event. Innovations like PaLM 2 and related technologies demonstrate Google's commitment to improving accessibility for all users, encompassing diverse abilities.
Moreover, these advancements extend beyond language processing, offering innovative solutions for individuals with disabilities. For instance, AI-powered image generation through Adobe's Firefly AI image generator shows promise for visually impaired users, enabling them to better perceive and interact with visual content by creating images based on text prompts.
Google envisions future integrations with third-party services such as OpenTable and Instacart, further enhancing accessibility for individuals with disabilities. These integrations have the potential to streamline tasks, provide assistance, and empower individuals to overcome barriers they may encounter in their daily activities.
By leveraging AI and machine learning, Google's developments have the potential to revolutionize accessibility in various ways, facilitating more natural and engaging interactions for users with disabilities. While explicit discussions and initiatives around accessibility remain crucial, the central focus on AI and machine learning during Google IO highlights the ongoing commitment to leveraging these technologies for the benefit of people with disabilities. The advancements showcased hold promise in driving accessibility forward, ensuring individuals with disabilities can fully utilize and engage with the latest AI-powered tools and features.
Conclusion
Google IO 2023 delivered a stunning array of groundbreaking innovations and future tech. Android 14 introduced remarkable accessibility features, including TalkBack enhancements, non-linear font scaling, and notification flashes for individuals with visual and hearing impairments. Google Maps evolved with improved accessibility, and Wear OS 4 received updates for better user experiences. Privacy and security were prioritized, and advancements in AI language models were showcased. While accessibility had limited emphasis during the keynote, Google's commitment to innovation and inclusivity remains strong. Google IO 2023 left attendees excited about the future possibilities and the transformative impact of these innovations.
About AFB Talent Lab
The AFB Talent Lab provides accessibility consulting services in conjunction with internship and apprenticeship programs designed to train a new generation of tech workers in digital inclusion, accessibility, and project management. To learn more about our client services or training programs, please visit our website at www.afb.org/talentlab.
