What’s New in Google Accessibility | Episode 12 | American Sign Language

TL;DR: Google has released accessibility updates for Android, Pixel, Chrome, and YouTube, including independent hearing aid settings for Android, offline support and new languages for Pixel Guided Frame, and personalized instructions for Gemini. ## Android System Updates On the Android side, Google has introduced several improvements tailored for hearing, vision, and interaction preferences, aiming to enhance the experience for users with diverse needs. ### Independent Control for Hearing Aids and Cochlear Implants For users pairing hearing aids or cochlear implants with Android devices, you can now set independent hearing device presets and ambient volume controls for left and right ears. This update allows users to adjust settings separately for each side, which is particularly helpful for those with asymmetric or fluctuating hearing loss, different devices worn in each ear, or who are in spaces with unbalanced volume. ### Optimized TalkBack Shortcuts Users who are blind or have low vision and use an external keyboard can now access the TalkBack screen reader via convenient keyboard shortcuts. Press **Action + Alt + T** to toggle the feature on or off. Note that the Action key varies by keyboard type: * Windows keyboards use the **Windows** key. * Mac keyboards use the **Command** key. ### Customizable Three-Button Navigation For users who prefer three-button navigation, Android now allows customization of the order of the "Back," "Home," and "Recent Apps" buttons. Specifically, the "Back" and "Recent Apps" buttons can be swapped between left and right positions. This feature is beneficial for users with limited mobility or those switching from other phones where they are accustomed to a different button layout. Additionally, this preference is preserved when setting up a new device. ### Customizable Mouse Keys Speed Users relying on Android Mouse Keys—a feature that allows cursor control via a physical keyboard instead of a mouse—can now customize cursor acceleration and speed for more precise control. ### Voice Access Improvements The Voice Access feature has significantly simplified how listening mode is activated: * **Unified Shortcut**: Previously, users had to activate the feature via silent notifications or manage multiple floating shortcuts. Now, a unified accessibility shortcut in Android settings controls listening mode and appears automatically. Tap the floating Voice Access shortcut to toggle listening mode on or off. * **Multiple Activation Methods**: If you prefer not to use the default floating shortcut, you can choose to use volume buttons, accessibility gestures, or the accessibility button on the navigation bar to toggle listening mode. * **Large Screen Device Optimization**: When multiple windows are open, Voice Access now interacts only with the topmost application window, preventing accidental interaction with hidden content and reducing the number of visual labels on the screen. Users can switch to other windows using the "Show recent apps" command. ## Pixel Device Updates The Pixel series has made significant strides in photographic assistance, primarily focusing on enhancements to the Guided Frame feature. ### Offline Scene Description Guided Frame leverages Gemini’s capabilities to assist blind or low-vision users in understanding scenes and taking high-quality photos through real-time descriptive audio and haptic feedback (such as vibrations). With this update, **scene description now supports offline use**. Whether capturing a sunset or a group portrait, users can receive accurate composition guidance even without a network connection. This update applies to **Pixel 10 series users (including foldable models)**, but does not include the Pixel 10a. ### New Language Support Leveraging Gemini’s capabilities, Guided Frame now supports over **40 new languages**, including Danish, Thai, and Turkish. Please note that using these newly added languages requires a network connection. ## Chrome Browser Updates ### Caret Browsing on Android Chrome for Android has introduced Caret Browsing, allowing users to navigate web pages using a keyboard. This feature is helpful for users who prefer not to use a mouse due to blindness, low vision, limited mobility, a broken mouse, or personal preference. Once enabled: * A text cursor appears on the web page. * Users can move the cursor using the arrow keys on the keyboard, similar to navigating a text document. * Users can place the cursor inside buttons or links to activate them. * Holding down the **Shift** key while moving the cursor allows for text selection. ## YouTube Updates ### Voice Boost YouTube’s Voice Boost feature makes conversations clearer by filtering out background noise and emphasizing speech. This feature is currently available in select videos and can be used on computers or TVs for those specific videos. This feature is particularly suitable for: * Users with hearing impairments. * Users watching YouTube in noisy rooms. * Users learning a new language. ## Gemini Usage Tips Google collaborated closely with the neurodiversity community to explore how AI can serve as a meaningful ally in daily life. Based on insights from collaborative research, here are strategies for leveraging Gemini to reduce cognitive load and improve focus: ### Set Permanent Preferences (Gemini Instructions) To save time and reduce the frustration of over-engineering prompts, users can set permanent preferences by navigating to **"Gemini Instructions"** in Gemini’s "Settings." The AI will apply these instructions to every conversation. For example, if you find large blocks of text difficult to read, you can instruct Gemini to always prioritize content scannability, requesting the use of bulleted lists, clear headings, and ample whitespace to optimize responses. ### Personalized Responses and Personal Connection With the new Personal Connection feature, Gemini can provide more relevant and personalized responses based on information it knows about you. Users can choose to let Gemini reference past chat history as well as Google apps they have chosen to connect. Whether you need help navigating social challenges in professional settings or want an extra pair of eyes to assist with complex emails, Gemini can offer tailored advice. --- Source: Google Accessibility Updates - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M9mAufki0Ik)