In late 2019, Apple won an assistive-centric technology patent, dubbed 'Interface Scanning for Disabled Users.' This can be applied to many of the company's core devices, including the MacBook, the iPad, and the iPhone. The technology patent is concerned with updating phones, laptops, and tablets to be more inclusive for use and the focus is placed on the needs of people with physical disabilities.
Apple wants to diversify the possible inputs for the selection of an element on a computing device. Examples here include the more conventional button press, mouse click or tap, as well as more accessibility-enabling actions such as voice command or movement of part of the user's body.
The power of the patent is described in a video of Ian MacKay who is using the iPhone's "assistive technology, [which is] called 'Switch Control.'"
Assistive-Centric Technology Patents
Apple is Pioneering User Interface's for Motor-Impaired Users
Trend Themes
1. Assistive-centric Technology - Apple's assistive-centric technology patent allows for more inclusive user interfaces by diversifying input options for computing devices.
2. Inclusive User Interfaces - Apple's patent focuses on updating phones, laptops, and tablets to be more inclusive for users with physical disabilities.
3. Accessibility-enabling Actions - The patent explores the incorporation of accessibility-enabling actions such as voice command or body movement for improved user interaction.
Industry Implications
1. Technology - The technology industry can utilize the patent to develop more accessible and inclusive devices for users with disabilities.
2. Consumer Electronics - Apple's patent opens up opportunities for the consumer electronics industry to create more inclusive interfaces in laptops, smartphones, and tablets.
3. Assistive Technology - The assistive technology industry can leverage Apple's patent to enhance and expand their offerings in assistive-centric devices and interfaces.