To make its services more accessible to users who have vision impairment, Google is updating Docs, Sheets, and Slides to include a new Braille shortcut.
After they've activated the shortcut, users can use their mouse to hover over words that the computer will then read aloud for them. The shortcut can be accessed on Windows systems by using Ctrl+Alt+H, and on Mac with CMD+Option+H. In addition to adding the shortcuts, Google has made further improvements to its Braille feature by updating its navigational reliability, verbalizing images that are included, highlighting misspellings and grammatical errors, and offering "refreshable braille displays" that ensure any updates are shared with the user.
The updates are scheduled for a full rollout starting on September 17th, 2020.
Braille Document Shortcuts
Google is Adding a Braille Shortcut to Docs, Sheets, and Slides
Trend Themes
1. Accessible Technology - The addition of a Braille shortcut in Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides highlights the trend towards making technology more accessible for users with vision impairment.
2. Assistive Features - Google's updates to its Braille feature, including highlights and verbalization of text, indicate the growing trend of integrating assistive features into mainstream products and services.
3. Inclusive Design - The enhancements made by Google, such as navigational reliability and refreshable braille displays, demonstrate the importance of inclusive design in creating a more accessible digital environment.
Industry Implications
1. Technology - The technology industry can leverage the trend of accessible technology by developing more inclusive features and products for users with disabilities.
2. Education - In the education industry, the adoption of assistive features like the Braille shortcut can enhance learning experiences for students with vision impairment.
3. Accessibility Services - The updates by Google highlight opportunities for the accessibility services industry to provide innovative solutions that support individuals with vision impairment in their daily tasks and activities.