Apple’s Latest Accessibility Innovations Support Independent Living for Disabled People
Apple’s recent iOS/iPadOS 18 update introduces a variety of new accessibility features, such as eye tracking, vehicle motion cues (designed to reduce motion sickness), voice control, and color filters on CarPlay for automobiles.
In September, Apple launched software updates (iOS/iPadOS 18) with several valuable additions aimed at enhancing the user experience on its devices.
One of the key highlights of these updates is the introduction of several accessibility features, including eye tracking, vehicle motion cues, voice control, and color filters for CarPlay in vehicles. With the International Day of Disabled Persons observed on December 3, we had the opportunity to speak with individuals with disabilities who have found these new features to be incredibly helpful in improving their everyday lives.
One of the most groundbreaking features in Apple’s latest update is eye tracking, which provides a significant boost to accessibility for users with vision impairments. Before this update, individuals with vision disabilities had to rely on additional accessories or devices to navigate their Apple devices. Now, eye tracking is seamlessly integrated into iPhones and iPads, using advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) to track the user’s eye movements.
Dhanya Ravi, an accessibility advocate and executive with EnAble India, has been an influential figure in the disability community. She served as India’s Locomotor Disability Ambassador at Purple Fest 2023 and was born with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI), a rare genetic condition that causes brittle bones and makes her prone to frequent fractures. Dhanya has broken over 200 bones since birth, earning her the nickname “glass woman.” Dhanya praises the new eye tracking and voice control features, which allow her to use Apple devices more efficiently and complete tasks with greater ease. “The assistive features help me get things done more easily and without stress. Voice Control is my favorite, and I’m thrilled with the improvements in this latest update. What I love most about the eye tracking feature is how it allows me to select options. Using eye tracking to check my unread WhatsApp messages lets me read a lot in a short period of time,” Dhanya shared.
For individuals prone to motion sickness, particularly those with disabilities, traveling in a car or other vehicle can be a challenging experience. To address this, Apple has introduced the Vehicle Motion Cues feature in the latest update. This feature helps reduce motion sickness by providing visual cues that respond to the movement of the vehicle.
Previously, users with vision impairments had to purchase additional accessories to navigate Apple iPhones and iPads. Now, with the new eye tracking feature built directly into Apple devices, there’s no need for extra gadgets. Apple’s technology leverages advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) capabilities, using the device’s front camera to track the user’s eye movements and help them navigate settings and switch between apps with ease.
Here’s how you can activate the Vehicle Motion Cues feature on an Apple device:
Step 1: Go to Settings > Accessibility > Motion.
Step 2: Tap Show Vehicle Motion Cues, then select your preferred option. If you choose “Automatic,” animated dots will appear on the screen when the iPhone detects you’re in a car or another moving vehicle; the dots will disappear once the motion stops.
To manually toggle the Vehicle Motion Cues, open the Control Center, tap the Vehicle Motion Cues button, and select your preferred option.
Apple’s ongoing commitment to accessibility is reshaping the way people with disabilities interact with technology, providing them with the tools they need to lead independent lives. The latest iOS and iPadOS 18 updates offer a suite of features that not only enhance accessibility but also promote inclusivity and empowerment for disabled individuals.
By combining cutting-edge AI, machine learning, and thoughtful design, Apple is not just creating technology but also making the world a more accessible place for all. With features like eye tracking, vehicle motion cues, voice control, and CarPlay color filters, Apple continues to be a leader in making sure that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can experience the digital world on their terms.
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