shot-button
Maharashtra Elections 2024 Maharashtra Elections 2024
Home > Technology News > Apple launches new tools for users with disabilities on iPhone Watch

Apple launches new tools for users with disabilities on iPhone, Watch

Updated on: 02 June,2022 06:27 PM IST  |  California
IANS |

People who are blind or low vision can now use their iPhone and iPad to navigate the last few feet to their destination with 'Door Detection' tool

 Apple launches new tools for users with disabilities on iPhone, Watch

Image for representational purpose only. Photo: istock

In a bid to further provide users with disabilities new tools for navigation, health, communication, and more, Apple on Tuesday previewed innovative software features that combine the power of hardware, software and machine learning (ML) on its array of products.


People who are blind or low vision can now use their iPhone and iPad to navigate the last few feet to their destination with 'Door Detection' tool.


The users with physical and motor disabilities who may rely on assistive features like Voice Control and Switch Control can fully control Apple Watch from their iPhone with Apple Watch Mirroring and the deaf and hard of hearing community can follow Live Captions on iPhone, iPad, and Mac, the company said in a statement.


Apple is also expanding support for its industry-leading screen reader 'VoiceOver' with over 20 new languages and locales.

These features will be available later this year with software updates across Apple platforms.

"We're excited to introduce these new features, which combine innovation and creativity from teams across Apple to give users more options to use our products in ways that best suit their needs and lives," said Sarah Herrlinger, Apple's senior director of Accessibility Policy and Initiatives.

The 'Door Detection' tool can help users locate a door upon arriving at a new destination, understand how far they are from it, and describe door attributes - including if it is open or closed, and when it's closed, whether it can be opened by pushing, turning a knob, or pulling a handle.

Door Detection can also read signs and symbols around the door, like the room number at an office, or the presence of an accessible entrance symbol.

This new feature combines the power of LiDAR, camera, and on-device machine learning, and will be available on iPhone and iPad models with the LiDAR Scanne, informed Apple.

"With Apple Watch Mirroring, users can control the watch using iPhone's assistive features like Voice Control and Switch Control, and use inputs including voice commands, sound actions, head tracking, or external Made for iPhone switches as alternatives to tapping the Apple Watch display," said the company.

This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

Register for FREE
to continue reading !

This is not a paywall.
However, your registration helps us understand your preferences better and enables us to provide insightful and credible journalism for all our readers.

Mid-Day Web Stories

Mid-Day Web Stories

This website uses cookie or similar technologies, to enhance your browsing experience and provide personalised recommendations. By continuing to use our website, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy. OK