Google has introduced numerous updates to its accessibility apps, one of which is the major update to the Lookout app. The latest version of the Lookout app now features a new ‘Find’ mode, specifically designed to assist individuals with low vision or blindness in identifying and locating objects in their surroundings. Here’s everything you need to know about Google’s latest accessibility updates.
Enhanced Lookout App
The Lookout app, which was capable of reading text and documents aloud, as well as recognizing food labels, currency, and objects through the camera, now includes a ‘Find’ mode. Users can choose from categories like seating, tables, vehicles, utensils, and bathrooms. The app then guides them by indicating the direction or distance of these objects, making navigation easier.
Furthermore, Lookout now includes an in-app capture button. Users can instantly take photos and receive AI-generated descriptions, helping them understand and interact more effectively with their environment.
Look to Speak App
Google has also updated the Look to Speak app. This app enables users to communicate through eye gestures by selecting phrases for the app to speak aloud. The new text-free mode allows users to select from a photo book containing emojis, symbols, and photos that can be personalized to represent different phrases.
Other Updates
Additionally, the tech giant has enhanced screen reader capabilities for Lens in Google Maps. The screen reader can now identify nearby places such as ATMs and restaurants, providing names, categories, and distances. Moreover, the app’s voice assistance has been improved, promising more precise audio prompts for navigation.
Google has also made its Accessible Places feature available on Google Maps on desktop. Previously, it was only accessible on Android and iOS. This feature indicates if a location is wheelchair accessible, including entrances, washrooms, seating, and parking.
According to the company, Google Maps now provides accessibility information for over 50 million places.
Furthermore, the company announced that it is releasing more code for the Project Gameface hands-free “mouse,” which allows users to control the cursor using head movements and facial gestures, enhancing technology accessibility for those with motor impairments.
All these announcements were made on the third day of Google I/O 2024, coinciding with Global Accessibility Awareness Day (May 16).