Creator: Google
Date Updated: March 25, 2024
Overview
Google has unveiled an all-new version of its TalkBack screen reader, designed to enhance accessibility for users who are blind or have low vision. This update introduces highly requested features, including multi-finger gestures and improved navigation through apps, making it easier for users to interact with their devices. The redesign, developed in collaboration with the blind and low-vision community, also adds more customization options, voice commands, and support for additional languages in the braille keyboard.
The information on this page is summarized from the Google TalkBack Screen Reader webpage.
Quick Facts
- Google introduced an all-new version of the TalkBack screen reader, designed with features highly requested by the blind and low-vision community.
- The update includes multi-finger gestures for easier app interaction, available on Pixel and Samsung Galaxy devices with One UI 3 onwards.
- Users can now use multi-finger gestures to select text, control media, or find help.
- TalkBack 9.1 introduces voice commands, allowing users to perform actions like finding text or adjusting the speech rate.
- Customization options have been expanded such as letting users tailor the TalkBack menu and gestures to their needs.
- Support for Arabic and Spanish is now available for the braille keyboard.
- The update is a collaboration with Samsung, making TalkBack the default screen reader on Galaxy devices from One UI 3 onwards, aiming for a more consistent screen reader experience across devices.
- The tutorial has been updated to help users adapt to the new features and gestures. A test pad is available to practice these gestures.
For more information, go to Google TalkBack Screen Reader.
References
Kemler, B. (2021, February 23). Our all-new talkback screen reader. Google. https://blog.google/products/android/all-new-talkback/