People with a range of physical abilities can now use their phones more thanks to tools like screen readers.
More accessibility features have been introduced, including improved live transcription tools and apps that use artificial intelligence. When enabled, your phone can alert you when a baby is crying or when you approach a door, for example.
It's easier to use the phone with accessibility tools. You can take a tour.
If you want to find all of the tools and features that are accessible, open the settings app on your phone. It is a good idea to take time to experiment.
The websites of Apple and Google have dedicated sections for accessibility, but note that your exact features will vary based on your phone model.
Swiping and tapping by hand to navigate a phone's features doesn't work for everyone but there are other ways to move through the screens and menu.
The Back Tap function, which completes assigned actions when you tap the back of the phone, is in theiOS Touch settings.
Similar options can be found inAndroid's accessibility shortcut. One way to access these is to open the main settings icon and select System, then gesture and system navigation.
Both platforms support navigation through third-party adaptive devices or by using the camera to recognize facial expressions, like looking to the left or to the right. The devices and actions can be configured in the settings of the app.
Those who can't see the screen can use tools from Apple and others. The VoiceOver feature in Apple's software allows you to give an audio description of what's on your screen as you move your finger.
Voice control allows you to control the phone with spoken commands. It is possible to use the Select to Speak setting on the mobile device to read aloud what is on the screen.
Don't forget to use hands-free methods with your phone. It is possible to open an app and perform actions with spoken commands. Apple has a feature in its keyboard that allows you to write with your voice.
It's possible to zoom in on parts of the phone screen with the help of the accessibility settings. If you prefer larger, bolder text and other display adjustments, open the settings icon and select display and text size. Go to the settings and choose the display size and text you want.
The Magnifier app has been upgraded to version 16 of the operating system. People who are blind or low vision can use the app to detect doors and people nearby as well as identify objects and surroundings.
LiveCaptions is a real-time transcription feature that converts dialogue around you into text. You can use the Live Caption setting on your phone to caption audio and video.