UNITED STATES: Tech giant Google has launched a series of features and improvements across its platforms, with a focus on Maps, Search, and Chrome. These enhancements are designed to streamline daily tasks and provide a more user-friendly experience for all individuals.
Google Maps: Bridging gaps and celebrating diversity
Google Maps has introduced an identity attribute dedicated to the disability community. This allows users to gain more insights about businesses, empowering merchants to self-identify as members of this community. This inclusive attribute joins the ranks of existing identifiers, including Asian-owned, Black-owned, Latino-owned, LGBTQ+ owned, veteran-owned, and women-owned businesses.
Another milestone in Maps is the advancement of the “Lens” feature, formerly known as “Search with Live View.” This innovative tool harnesses AI and augmented reality to assist users in navigating unfamiliar areas through their phone’s camera. To make Lens even more accessible to users with visual impairments, screen reader capabilities are being introduced in Lens on iOS, with Android availability expected later this year.
Furthermore, Google is taking a significant step towards inclusivity by expanding the availability of wheelchair-accessible walking routes on both iOS and Android platforms. This expansion allows users to receive directions that avoid stairs, building upon the existing wheelchair-accessible transit navigation option.
Google Search and Chrome: Enhanced accessibility
The Chrome browser on Android and iOS is now equipped with typo detection and a suggested website feature within the address bar, ensuring a consistent experience across all devices. These tools enhance the user experience, making browsing and searching more accessible and efficient.
For individuals with low vision, Google’s Magnifier tool offers an invaluable solution. This tool enables users to zoom in on objects using their phone’s camera, effectively simulating a physical magnifying glass. Additionally, it provides controls for enhancing text legibility, including color filters, brightness adjustments, and contrast adjustments. The Magnifier tool is accessible on Google Play for Pixel 5 and newer models, with the exception of the Pixel Fold.
Google’s “Guided Frame” functionality, initially geared towards facial recognition, has been expanded to encompass a wider range of applications. Users can now capture images of pets, meals, or documents using both front- and rear-facing cameras. This feature is already available on Pixel 8 and 8 Pro devices and is scheduled to roll out to Pixel 6+ later this year.
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