Robot overlords need access, too
In his latest book, The Design of Future Things, design lama Donald Norman posits the development of self-propelling luggage, then considers the implications:
“The luggage, with its wheels, would behave like a handicapped object, so it would need to seek out curb cuts at street intersections and ramps and elevators to maneuver within buildings. Human wheelchair users are often stymied: the wheeled luggage would be even more frustrated. And beyond curbs and stairs, navigating through city traffic would likely defeat its visual processing systems.”
So the ultimate impetus for universal design might not be the needs of humans, but of machines? Fascinating, Captain.
Microsoft Surface not as superficial as it seems
“Surface” is Microsoft’s intelligent table with built-in sensors and a projecting display that lets you interact with objects you put on it. AT&T is getting ready to harness Surface at its wireless retail stores. You’ll be able to put a handset model on the table and see info on coverage, features, and accessories, all without having to deal with a sullen, undertrained salesclone.
We’re hoping that AT&T remembers to include info about hearing aid compatibility and other accessibility features. And that Surface can be seen easily from a wheelchair, has a large print mode, and a screen reader … and a pony! Seriously, this is a great opportunity to advance accessible retail.
Gizmodo: AT&T Surface Retail Demo: Buying a Cellphone Finally Doesn’t Suck
The fat lady sings
Microsoft has announced that Internet Explorer 8 will include support for ARIA, which makes Web 2.0 technologies such as tree structures and live updates usable by assistive technologies. ARIA is already supported by Firefox, so the reasons for designers not to use it are getting few and far between.
Who’s got the button?
We’ve complained a lot about problems with virtual iPhone buttons, especially for people with visual disabilities. Guess what–mainstreamers using iPhones for text messaging make a lot more typing errors than users of older phone models. Looks like physical buttons won’t be joining the woolly mammoth any time soon…
PC or not PC
The long-awaited trend is already happening in Japan: far fewer people are using “old-fashioned” computers, preferring instead to use products that combine some or all aspects of computer use with other functions, such as smart phones. Will there be concerted, consistent thought given to accessible peripherals? Best case, there could be design revolutions spurred by confluence between the needs of people with disabilities who, say, can’t use teensy or virtual buttons…and the needs of people “without” disabilities who can’t use them either.
Open source … hardware?
We’re getting accustomed to the idea of open source software, software that anyone can modify or mash up with other software to achieve a new function. Now we’re seeing it in hardware. Case in point — Bug Labs will soon release its mobile computer modules, small but powerful Linux-based blocks that hook together. First comes the Wifi-capable base unit and programming environment (including Java), to be followed by GPS, camera, touchscreen LCD, and motion sensor modules. Intended for the advanced hobbyist and prototyping market, perhaps AT vendors may be attracted. This approach may reduce their need to develop their own hardware, lowering costs and promoting standards.
Everybody wants a HAC
Looking for a new mobile that’s hearing aid compatible? Go to the site below (PhoneScoop), and click on “Show all options”. Scroll down and you’ll see all the compatibility ratings. Finally — a mainstream e-commerce site that knows “hard of hearing ain’t hard”.