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Accessible Cell Phones for the Blind
By Christina Mulberry
Millions of cell phone users take for granted the conveniences that their cell phones offer. The ability to easily read menus in order to navigate around their phone isn't something we think about. We don't consider the inconvenience that would occur if we couldn't read our e-mail or text messages. We don't realize that not everyone can place a call on those ever more popular touch screens with their virtual keyboard that provides little if any tactile feedback. For those of us who can see and read, a cell phone is quick and easy to use and it assures our ability to stay connected, be productive, and even stay safe. Unfortunately for those with low vision or blindness, the visual nature of these devices presents a barrier to accessing these same conveniences. There are some work arounds, but they are neither cheap nor a complete solution. Screen magnifiers can help some, but expensive screen readers and text to speech programs are often the best answer at this time. A screen reader may cost $400 and some text to speech programs may be significantly higher than that. Of course there are some phones now that offer voice commands for placing calls and voice guides that will read menus, but the options are limited. Samsung has the Smooth and Renown, and LG has the Shine II, Rumor 2, and Trax among a few others. Apple took a big step last year when they made their VoiceOver screen reader available on the iPhone 3GS at no additional cost. It also has voice commands, distinctive ringtones for contacts, a zoom feature, and a higher contrast screen. The topic of braille phones continues to linger out there but apparently there are no real options available in the US at this time. For now, when a user wants or needs a braille keypad, the primary option is to make their own braille labels to peel and stick on an existing keypad. Of course, the keypad itself is only part of the solution, but it's a start. It would seem that a primary focus of technology should be to provide devices that can help improve the lives of those with special needs, those who have the greatest difficulty coping with the current environment. It seems however, that the pace of development in regards to providing cell phones that offer needed access to those with visual impairment is still frustratingly sluggish. |
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Its sad that deelopmment in this area is so slow. I have some friends with disabilities and I have gained an appreciation for how challenging it is for them to use the devises that the rest of us take for granted. Thanks for bringing this issue to the public's attention.
This is a great thing if they can get it going. What I need is a cellphone for the stupid...
CONTRIBUTOR'S REPLY
I hear ya. I need an occasional brain substitute myself.
The copyright for this content entitled "Accessible Cell Phones for the Blind" has been specified by the contributor as:
All Rights Reserved
This content may not be copied, distributed or adapted by anyone under any circumstances.
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This intel was contributed by mulberry
mulberry
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May, 2012
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