Color Modification

Color modification, such as high contrast mode or dark mode on a device, increases the contrast of colors on a screen. Black text on a white background or white text on a dark background are both examples of high contrast. High contrast makes the user interface easier to see for people with low vision.

Color matching also helps anyone whose eyes are strained when viewing screens in the dark or at lunchtime when the sun is very blinding. Many people use it simply because it's easier on the eyes. Next, let us look at voice control and switching devices.

Voice control and switching devices

Both help people with limited dexterity and can serve as an alternative to a keyboard or mouse. Voice control allows users to navigate and interact with the buttons and screens on their devices using only their voice. Many devices have settings with this feature. A switch is a device that replaces the use of a computer keyboard or mouse. Switch devices can allow users to control technology like a computer or smartphone. There are many different types of switch devices, but they all help people with limited motor skills use technology more easily.

Screen Readers

Screen readers are one of the most common assistive technologies for people with limited vision. The software works on mobile and web devices and reads aloud any text on the screen. Screen readers also read any interactive elements, such as buttons, along with non-visible text, such as button names, and any alternate text for images.

Alternative Text

Alternative text, or alt text, helps translate a visual user interface into a text-based user interface. It essentially uses words to describe a meaningful image to someone who is unable to see the image. Alt text is also super helpful for those with low bandwidth connections. If your device is unable to maintain a connection to the internet, it may have trouble loading a large file or image. Alt text is useful for context when an image fails to load.

Speech to Text

With Speech to Text, a user composes text by speaking into their phone or computer. The voice recording is automatically converted to text. Many people find it much easier to compose a text by speaking into their device because it provides a hands-free experience and reduces the amount of mental energy needed to type.

When we talk about accessibility, we are talking about how to make a product accessible to people with different abilities. But when we talk about inclusive design, we look at differences, at their different experiences and their needs, because of their different abilities.

We gather these insights and apply them in a way that everyone can benefit from, whether they have a disability or not.