Advances in voice control technology allow people to use computers without using their hands. This is especially useful for people who have difficulty moving their body. With voice commands you can change settings, send text messages, make calls and open apps without touching the screen. A handy touch menu lets you change how the gesture controls work, making it easier to connect for people who can’t use normal touch gestures.
2. Use a screen reader
Screen reading software, such as TalkBack or VoiceOver for Android or iOS, can read the content on the screen, including text and button labels, aloud. You can use these tools to easily move around your device and retrieve information. They are constantly being updated to add languages and better voice quality, making them easier to use for the visually impaired.
3. Change the display settings
Visually impaired users can get a lot of help by changing their display settings. To make the screen easier to read, change the color scheme, make the text larger, or set the contrast to a higher level. By 2024, most smartphones will allow users to change a wide range of display settings to make their screen as clear as possible.
4. Select Video calling and Real-time text (RTT).
RTT allows you to send text immediately as you type it, making it easier for the deaf or hard of hearing to talk. When you add video calling capabilities with sign language, you improve interactions and ensure that users can speak clearly the way they want.
5. Use hearing aids that match
Today, smartphones offer a variety of options for using hearing aids. These options can improve the sound output of the device, allowing it to be used with hearing aids and cochlear implants. This makes it easier for people with hearing problems to listen to phone calls and media. To pair and set up your hearing aids, check your smartphone’s disability settings.
6. Use vibrating and flashing alerts.
You can change the alarm settings by using vibration and bright or constant lighting. These are very useful for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Most devices allow you to set different modes for different types of messages. This way you know which type it is, without having to hear the alarm.
7. Research accessibility shortcuts
Accessibility shortcuts allow you to quickly enable or disable features without having to do a lot of setup. Links to accessibility tools you often use, such as screen readers, color correction, and magnification. Usually this can be done with a simple touch or by pressing a series of buttons simultaneously.
8. Magnification and gesture navigation tools
You can use the built-in zoom tool to enlarge text and images on your screen. Gesture navigation can be changed to make the device easier to use, such as making gestures that can be used with one hand or moving in a way that suits the user.
9. Text-to-speech and speech-to-text services
Use the speech-to-text service to quickly type messages and notes, and use the text-to-speech service to read text aloud. These aids are very useful for people with vision or learning difficulties as they make communicating and absorbing knowledge easier.
10. Get feedback and make changes
Change your accessibility settings regularly based on new features and user reviews. By 2024, most operating systems will have feedback tools that allow users to help improve accessibility features, making them better and more flexible based on how they are used.
In summary
In 2024, making your smartphone easier to use means using built-in features, changing settings, and using third-party apps designed to make it easier to use. These tips ensure that all users, regardless of skill level, can get the most out of their device. By meeting your needs, you can make your smartphone experience more useful and accessible to everyone.