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A new standard has been agreed among some of the tech industry’s biggest names for Braille displays – devices that make it easier for blind and partially sighted people to use computers.
The USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF), which includes the likes of Apple, Google and Microsoft, has announced a new standard for USB HID (Human Interface Device).
It will enable users of such devices to more easily move between different computers and operating systems without having to downloading unique software for each.
USB-IF chief operating officer Jeff Ravencraft said the agreement would help improve the lives of computer users with vision problems.
“This is another great example of how USB-IF device class specifications can improve people’s lives,” he said.
“With more than 1,000 members worldwide, USB-IF brings companies together to improve access to technology and provide a seamless user experience.”
Under the new standard, Braille display users will be able to soon plug in and use Braille display devices as they see fit, much in the same way a USB mouse or keyboard can be plugged into any computer without issue.
“Technology should be accessible to everyone and Apple designs all products with that in mind,” Apple’s director of global accessibility policy and initiatives Sarah Herrlinger said.
“We’re proud to advance this new USB-IF standard because we believe in improving the experience for all people who rely on braille displays to use their Apple products or any other device.”
