New in iOS 8: Hands-Free Siri and Improved Dictation

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://wpuploads.appadvice.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Featured24.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="http://wpuploads.appadvice.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Featured24.png" title="Screen shot of Siri" width="180" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.amazadesign.com/uploads/3/2/8/1/3281636/2492075_orig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="75" src="http://www.amazadesign.com/uploads/3/2/8/1/3281636/2492075_orig.jpg" title="Siri icon" width="75" /></a><a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/06/ios-8-more-accessible-than-ever.html">Apple's</a> voice activated features have received some new features as part of <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/06/ios-8-more-accessible-than-ever.html">iOS 8</a>. <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/09/new-in-ios-7-ask-siri-to-turn-on.html">Siri</a> is a virtual voice activated personal assistant that can answer your questions, call your friends, check the weather, and much more.  Now it can  be activated hands free by saying, "Hey, Siri." Previously, users would have to press and hold the home button to activate Siri. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The new feature will allow people with physical disabilities to easily activate Siri. The hands-free activation feature does have one major caveat: the device must be plugged in and charging. Users who need or want to access this feature on- the- go can purchase a battery case to utilize this feature. It is possible that future <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/09/new-in-ios-7-ask-siri-to-turn-on.html">iOS</a> devices will not require a power source to use the "Hey, Siri" feature.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In addition, when dictating a question to Siri or dictating text into an app the recognized words appear almost instantly after being spoken. To use dictation bring up the keyboard and then press the microphone icon next to the space key. With words appearing as you speak it is easier to identify mistakes which makes the dictation process faster. <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/10/os-x-mavericks-enhanced-dictation.html">Dictation</a> can be a useful feature for people who struggle with spelling and people who have difficulty using a keyboard. These features are available for devices running iOS 8.</div>

Diposting oleh Abdullah Syafii

New in iOS 8: Greyscale Mode

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAFcvyXicmXP47Jy-sjidHbPUTagRwbKBuNi257Ne9VRV0W0G4DWr4DApbYoh8zEpcw_LiwBWbyBZDR7ZkkGCKf4khmpQGDjDaEu4_7qPpm4zuNA99pvTKmGVORl-26o2mNT5LBdKuXdA/s1600/grayscale.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Altered image not an iOS 8 screenshot" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAFcvyXicmXP47Jy-sjidHbPUTagRwbKBuNi257Ne9VRV0W0G4DWr4DApbYoh8zEpcw_LiwBWbyBZDR7ZkkGCKf4khmpQGDjDaEu4_7qPpm4zuNA99pvTKmGVORl-26o2mNT5LBdKuXdA/s1600/grayscale.bmp" title="A greyscale iOS homescreen" width="179" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/06/ios-8-more-accessible-than-ever.html">iOS 8</a> includes a new greyscale mode that could benefit people with visual impairments. The new mode is included in addition to inverse color which was previously available. The new option will reduce the bright colors and possibly reduce glare to make the screen easier to see. Greyscale and inverse color can be enabled simultaneously for further visual changes. Even for people without visual impairments greyscale maybe made the screen slightly easier to view outdoors.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>To enable greyscale navigate to Settings > General > <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/05/apple-begins-hosting-free-accessibility.html">Accessibility</a> > Greyscale. Please note that the above screenshot is an altered colored screenshot.

Diposting oleh Abdullah Syafii

New in iOS 8: Improved Guided Access with Timers and Touch ID Integration

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF3xHRShjRTfmp_XSMEAfc3cMUwOXSxhwwPv943DVJEEkap-sK6WNrRKAi8IrQ-fUJY8RUahSi4sWjmjJINrks-pnAmaoyW2IN5l3zLq8oUveEpi86i9NNy6Of6N3HXKLe2jGa__gyxPw/s1600/Guided+Access+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF3xHRShjRTfmp_XSMEAfc3cMUwOXSxhwwPv943DVJEEkap-sK6WNrRKAi8IrQ-fUJY8RUahSi4sWjmjJINrks-pnAmaoyW2IN5l3zLq8oUveEpi86i9NNy6Of6N3HXKLe2jGa__gyxPw/s1600/Guided+Access+1.png" title="Guided Access settings" width="179" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzbEH4TXXA5PNcQMnl7QFvFUiIAAGx66eGLdjIn2aZI9IOqa3dNUDviPiCRauNmLrgMg6-ixmfXGiDjz05RoORiQG7xg23ekyHHZrv7YBhsFEaTDmbasdsmhuLJPjaYDqdIXOrGzwItxU/s1600/Guided+Access+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzbEH4TXXA5PNcQMnl7QFvFUiIAAGx66eGLdjIn2aZI9IOqa3dNUDviPiCRauNmLrgMg6-ixmfXGiDjz05RoORiQG7xg23ekyHHZrv7YBhsFEaTDmbasdsmhuLJPjaYDqdIXOrGzwItxU/s1600/Guided+Access+2.png" title="Message indicating time has expired" width="180" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Guided Access is one of the many <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/06/ios-8-more-accessible-than-ever.html">iOS</a> features being enhanced in <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/06/ios-8-more-accessible-than-ever.html">iOS 8</a>. <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2012/09/what-is-guided-access.html">Guided Access</a> is used to keep a someone on a single app using  a password. For example, if you want your child to read a book and not watch a video you can lock them into the reading app, eliminating the ability to navigate to other apps. With <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2012/09/what-is-guided-access.html">Guided Access</a> enabled, a child or student will need a passcode in order to enter another app. To learn more about Guided Access <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2012/09/what-is-guided-access.html">click here</a>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One of the enhancement allows users to end a Guided Access session with their finger print using Touch ID. Similar to how third-party developers can implement <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/09/the-touch-id-fingerprint-sensor-on-new.html">Touch ID</a> authentication, <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2012/09/what-is-guided-access.html">Guided Access</a> will also take advantage of finger print reading technology. Instead of entering a passcode, users with a <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/09/the-touch-id-fingerprint-sensor-on-new.html">Touch ID</a> enabled device will be able to end the session simply by placing their finger on the Touch ID sensor. This feature will simplify the processes of ending Guided Access and potentially eliminate the frustration resulting in forgotten passcodes.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The other enhancement allows students and parents to set a time limit. After the time expires the app will not respond until the correct passcode or finger print is entered. Periodically a small message appears showing how much time is remaining. This feature could be perfect for test taking by ensuring students stop answering questions after the allotted time expires, or for setting a time limit for playing games- when the time limit is reached, the app will not respond.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">To enable Guided Access navigate to Settings > General > <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/05/apple-begins-hosting-free-accessibility.html">Accessibility</a> > Guided Access.</div>

Diposting oleh Abdullah Syafii

New in iOS 8: Start Text-To-Speech Easily with Speak Screen

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTTKeXLOZWQTIDAu5x83NJU-Mn5ORXBHTsdSuvnOL-K3k3AG_XV7w9JP96V9MBsSmrJxCW2LWCuwK7C3kaLTI1D9H_JfMgBo_y5dPrAM95DbQeY9FrYIbq5XrgaOLRi9rzlWdzIPNYf8o/s1600/photo+(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTTKeXLOZWQTIDAu5x83NJU-Mn5ORXBHTsdSuvnOL-K3k3AG_XV7w9JP96V9MBsSmrJxCW2LWCuwK7C3kaLTI1D9H_JfMgBo_y5dPrAM95DbQeY9FrYIbq5XrgaOLRi9rzlWdzIPNYf8o/s1600/photo+(5).JPG" title="Speak Screen menu over a Safari webpage" width="180" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8wdsL6mipgOncnTujJF9x894A5dvCTou_IA_lD6xjk0HUXw7tcEo51-HwCdnok4iEuR9_RWU_s5BQJs_sM2cKh_3XDZVhImmsD2zZOXAnwYZdRNa9SYLMWRJtISrvBjXzML9A6QmiF8c/s1600/IMG_2520.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8wdsL6mipgOncnTujJF9x894A5dvCTou_IA_lD6xjk0HUXw7tcEo51-HwCdnok4iEuR9_RWU_s5BQJs_sM2cKh_3XDZVhImmsD2zZOXAnwYZdRNa9SYLMWRJtISrvBjXzML9A6QmiF8c/s1600/IMG_2520.PNG" title="Speak Screen options in settings" width="180" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/06/ios-8-more-accessible-than-ever.html">iOS 8</a> includes some new accessibility features and many improvements to existing features. One of the new features is called Speak Screen which allows users to quickly have text on the screen spoken aloud using <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/11/claropdf-app-pdf-text-to-speech-and.html">text-to-speech</a>. Speak Screen is included in addition to <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2012/10/how-to-use-ios-6-speak-selection-with.html">Speak Selection</a> which allows users to highlight text and press speak to have content read aloud.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Unlike Speak Selection, which requires text to be highlighted first, before reading the text aloud,  Speak Screen does not require users to highlight the text they wish to have spoken. Especially for longer articles or emails, this highlighting process could be time consuming and frustrating. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Speak Screen solves the problem by speaking all text on the screen with a simple two-finger swipe down from the top of the screen. After swiping down with two fingers, text starts to be read aloud with <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/11/claropdf-app-pdf-text-to-speech-and.html">text-to-speech</a>, and the Speak Screen menu appears on top of your current app. This menu allows you to stop and start speech, adjust the text-to-speech speaking rate, and navigate through the text being spoken.  Instead of having to re-highlight text if you want to hear a paragraph again, Speak Screen offers simple navigation buttons. The menu can also be hidden to allow full view of the screen and accessed again through a small floating button. Just like Speak Selection, Speak Screen has the option to highlight text as it is spoken, making it easier for sighted readers to follow the text as it is being spoken.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Just like all of the accessibility features in iOS 8, Speak Screen can use the Alex text-to-speech voice which many users prefer. While Alex is a very high quality text-to-speech voice beware, it takes up almost one gigabyte of storage. Speak Screen can also be activated through Siri by saying "speak the screen." To enable Speak Screen on a device with iOS 8 go to Settings > General > <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/05/apple-begins-hosting-free-accessibility.html">Accessibility</a> > Speech and then toggle on Speak Screen. Speak Screen is only available for devices running iOS 8 or higher.</span></div>

Diposting oleh Abdullah Syafii

New in iOS 8: Vastly Improved Zoom

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWjDhM5nOiGOWtLlypOy4af4EdloQhMwWyyrVIXAkARqiwYdslKdE4Yd0qZ0nQ2EpqTu1NJc166Us55hhuMMCPHcoLwloNjNgbexw-0wQmKqiiE2c5_gOuB2bOTkuC6TecrkstminysMI/s1600/Zoom1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWjDhM5nOiGOWtLlypOy4af4EdloQhMwWyyrVIXAkARqiwYdslKdE4Yd0qZ0nQ2EpqTu1NJc166Us55hhuMMCPHcoLwloNjNgbexw-0wQmKqiiE2c5_gOuB2bOTkuC6TecrkstminysMI/s1600/Zoom1.png" title="windowed zoom in iOS 8" width="181" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpELI4-adj94y6UEci30cvtbHocsymLPmffXlzu4QQ17xujpnbK_mUk0i0RpLfJu6NguzikwenuC9O95myfy6Wu9JQbL_m82BdB60xOsd0wyJ67VfGbZ1y09NcUeiD95OimXRr42tJPZM/s1600/Zoom4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpELI4-adj94y6UEci30cvtbHocsymLPmffXlzu4QQ17xujpnbK_mUk0i0RpLfJu6NguzikwenuC9O95myfy6Wu9JQbL_m82BdB60xOsd0wyJ67VfGbZ1y09NcUeiD95OimXRr42tJPZM/s1600/Zoom4.png" title="windowed zoom with a filter in iOS 8" width="180" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In previous versions of <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/06/ios-8-more-accessible-than-ever.html">iOS</a>, zoom was only  a simple full screen magnification. With <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/06/ios-8-more-accessible-than-ever.html">iOS 8</a>, Apple has vastly improved zoom with partial screen window zoom, filters, and smarter magnification options. <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2012/10/ios-6-voiceover-compatiblity-with-maps.html">Zoom</a> is a vital feature for people with low vision and its new features in iOS 8 makes it even more useful.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One of the most noticeable enhancements is the ability to magnify certain areas of the screen while leaving the rest of the screen unmagnified. As opposed to full screen zoom, the zoom lens allows for more easy navigation while still allowing certain important areas to be magnified. Users can change the size of the magnified area and pan around the screen in order to magnify different areas. An option is available to add a zoom control to the screen which acts like a virtual joystick for controlling which areas of the screen are magnified.Within the magnified area, users can apply filters to make viewing easier.  The filters available are inverse colors, greyscale, low light, and greyscale inverse.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFT2RGwu3HuTyr1CxqalhpCSjBDUk5m4jrowX9G0gTb8WMCHvqGP4zI_D2asjZVmKXS7sKtOek5ct9vLe4MlG5EeTbpDKBjzHAgHRzIGrS3g1lazLzJcfhs2-ml4I__541wP94-JRbCBw/s1600/Zoom5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFT2RGwu3HuTyr1CxqalhpCSjBDUk5m4jrowX9G0gTb8WMCHvqGP4zI_D2asjZVmKXS7sKtOek5ct9vLe4MlG5EeTbpDKBjzHAgHRzIGrS3g1lazLzJcfhs2-ml4I__541wP94-JRbCBw/s1600/Zoom5.png" title="iOS 8 Zoom without enlarging keyboard" width="112" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As pictured above, iOS 8 allows users to choose not to magnify the keyboard. This can make typing on software keyboards much easier while still allowing the text being entered to be enlarged. When the keyboard is magnified some keys are cut off requiring panning to type, iOS 8 eliminates this problem. Zoom also includes the ability to follow the <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/06/happy-birthday-voiceover.html">VoiceOver</a> cursor focus. Meaning when the VoiceOver cursor is focused on an app or button, that app or button will be enlarged in the zoom window.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">These new zoom options are just one of many exciting accessibility enhancements included in iOS 8. The improved zoom will benefit many users with visual impairments and is a huge improvement over zoom in <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/09/new-in-ios-7-detailed-look-at-switch.html">iOS 7</a>. To enable zoom go to Settings > General > Accessibility > Zoom. For more screenshots of zoom in action click read more below.</div><a name="more"></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpirWSJjdSLd9MBkKo8V9HdOt4juQgTQkY_5EYT0mjWdri_6wh5tB5JaiSFevKj1JY7frIs8k3l7YJBxhVvBO891PiqotGCjEh1Z3o67BYzX47IX1IbKCg9mlXIaMu0FMxbN-6jNacnGs/s1600/Zoom2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpirWSJjdSLd9MBkKo8V9HdOt4juQgTQkY_5EYT0mjWdri_6wh5tB5JaiSFevKj1JY7frIs8k3l7YJBxhVvBO891PiqotGCjEh1Z3o67BYzX47IX1IbKCg9mlXIaMu0FMxbN-6jNacnGs/s1600/Zoom2.png" width="180" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy8fUK-RB7sUG7IJC_K2EN1jqvuxajKE8cCibQ1hDimaPFzEa1J7Nss7lI9gT3VTU32oY-i9Fd6VWeMIv0mpctmlbUZe7hXxLEtS-CqDizCwojt99ATSM_szFolIKSSboT8zhWo5I956o/s1600/Zoom3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy8fUK-RB7sUG7IJC_K2EN1jqvuxajKE8cCibQ1hDimaPFzEa1J7Nss7lI9gT3VTU32oY-i9Fd6VWeMIv0mpctmlbUZe7hXxLEtS-CqDizCwojt99ATSM_szFolIKSSboT8zhWo5I956o/s1600/Zoom3.png" width="179" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsVGzztBfs9OsknvX4G0-Gn3PflaxPRLUqRdlKKOGINy9cs4pqmobnB4Vv6EKLrsWh62pWTWHpEavB9QRJovGJJvyhPRLyF5Ypx8YbGmS_tI0X5t-fK5tWt8d4YoFlsa-LgSiNBAVoGqU/s1600/IMG_2531.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsVGzztBfs9OsknvX4G0-Gn3PflaxPRLUqRdlKKOGINy9cs4pqmobnB4Vv6EKLrsWh62pWTWHpEavB9QRJovGJJvyhPRLyF5Ypx8YbGmS_tI0X5t-fK5tWt8d4YoFlsa-LgSiNBAVoGqU/s1600/IMG_2531.PNG" width="180" /></a></div>

Diposting oleh Abdullah Syafii

Apple Releases iOS 8 with Major Accessibility Improvements

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.maclife.com/files/imagecache/futureus_imagegallery_fullsize/gallery/ios_8_intro_2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://www.maclife.com/files/imagecache/futureus_imagegallery_fullsize/gallery/ios_8_intro_2.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Today, Apple released <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/06/ios-8-more-accessible-than-ever.html">iOS 8</a> the latest software update for <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/09/what-larger-screen-iphone-means-for.html">iPhone</a>, iPad, and iPod Touch. The new software, which is available for free, includes many new features and enhancements, including new accessibility features and tools that will allow developers to make the next generation of apps. Apple has not stood still in terms accessibility and as a result, iOS 8 is truly the most accessible and inclusive <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/06/ios-8-more-accessible-than-ever.html">iOS</a> version to date.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Some of the most exciting new accessibility features are included in iOS are ready to use right after updating. These features are developed by Apple, and most are found under Settings > General > Accessibility. </span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;">Speak Screen is one of the new accessibility features that allows users to quickly and easily have content on the screen read with <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/11/claropdf-app-pdf-text-to-speech-and.html">text-to-speech</a> with a simple two finger swipe down gesture. Unlike older versions of iOS which required users to highlight sections that they wished to be spoken, Speak Screen does not require any highlighting. Users can even ask Siri to “speak the screen” to start text-to-speech. </span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;">Apple’s highly acclaimed screen reader, <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/06/happy-birthday-voiceover.html">VoiceOver</a>, also received some substantial updates. Now, <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/06/happy-birthday-voiceover.html">VoiceOver</a> users can enter text using a system-wide virtual six-dot Braille keyboard. Zoom is also vastly improved with windowed magnification and filters. <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2012/09/what-is-guided-access.html">Guided Access</a> and <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2011/07/what-is-assistive-touch.html">AssistiveTouch</a> have seen smaller improvements. </span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;">In addition, all accessibility features that use speech will now be able to use the Alex text-to-speech voice that many Mac users enjoy. All of these features are included with the iOS 8 update. Stay tuned for in depth information about the features discussed above in the coming days and weeks.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">With iOS 8, Apple has given developers tools to make the next generation of great apps. Hopefully, assistive app makers will be able to take advantage of these new features to help people with various needs. Developers can now make system wide keyboard apps. iOS keyboards will now be able to enter text into any app if the developer updates the app for <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/06/ios-8-more-accessible-than-ever.html">iOS 8</a>. For example, <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/02/eye-free-typing-app-fleksy-now-free.html">Fleksy</a> and SwiftKey are expect to receive an update shortly to enable text entry into any app. Developers can also add the ability to unlock their app using <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/09/the-touch-id-fingerprint-sensor-on-new.html">Touch ID</a>finger print recognition for devices with Touch ID. Lastly, developers can create extensions to allow their app to perform functions within other apps. For example, a translation extension could be used within Safari to eliminate the need to switch apps. </span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;">These features open up a whole new world to app developers and it will be exciting to use some of the new apps that take advantage of these new developer features. While some apps have already been updated to take advantage of the new developer features in iOS, many have not been. Check back to read about some apps that are taking advantage of these new developer features in ways that can help people with disabilities.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/06/ios-8-more-accessible-than-ever.html">iOS 8</a> is a free update that you can download now. Stay tuned to the Assistive Technology Blog to learn more about the new included <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/05/apple-begins-hosting-free-accessibility.html">accessibility</a> features and about apps that take advantage of the new developer features.</span><o:p></o:p></div>

Diposting oleh Abdullah Syafii

What a Larger Screen iPhone Means for Accessibility

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/EY4c2mh15Yk" width="560"></iframe><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The general consensus is that Apple will introduce new <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/05/ginger-page-for-iphone-powerful.html">iPhones</a> with larger screens in a few days. With many people with disabilities using Apple's flagship device for their accessibility needs a change can have a large impact on users. From a software prospective <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/06/ios-8-more-accessible-than-ever.html">iOS 8 will offer many accessibility improvements</a>, but hardware is also an important aspect of <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/05/ginger-page-for-iphone-powerful.html">accessibility</a>. The larger screen will certainly benefit some users with special needs, but may also cause problems for others.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Users with low vision may benefit the most from the larger viewing area. On current iPhones, with large text enabled, only a small amount of text is able to fit on screen. A larger screen will allow more text to fit on screen requiring less scrolling for users who prefer or require large text. The large screen will also give <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/06/happy-birthday-voiceover.html">VoiceOver</a> users more space to use three or four finger gestures.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGbApd1zwbPpMuU7pOFJo7pEGdOHQTzpedtUKX0IOrH5xIUxpAE2JTVunpaByBpq10JJu4tWwOTkzYo6ePpsVSeG9QgL85UXtHPIJGn55HHiWK1F39hnuRuJGdJrh-TgJa3HM71t8tuc0/s1600/photo+(2).PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGbApd1zwbPpMuU7pOFJo7pEGdOHQTzpedtUKX0IOrH5xIUxpAE2JTVunpaByBpq10JJu4tWwOTkzYo6ePpsVSeG9QgL85UXtHPIJGn55HHiWK1F39hnuRuJGdJrh-TgJa3HM71t8tuc0/s1600/photo+(2).PNG" width="179" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">On the other hand a larger screen <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/05/ginger-page-for-iphone-powerful.html">iPhone</a> may pose a challenge. Users with physical challenges may have a difficult time reaching all the controls. Also users who prefer using their phone in one hand and users who can only use one hand to operate their phone may find it difficult access all areas of the screen. It is possible that Apple will come up with a software solution to these possible challenges, making one handed use a breeze. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When Apple introduced the iPhone 5 it claimed that the larger screen was a perfect size for one handed, use so it will be interesting to see how the next iPhone is marketed.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">People who use Apple devices as assistive devices should be excited about the company's upcoming announcement. Regardless of any hardware changes <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/06/ios-8-more-accessible-than-ever.html">Apple's iOS 8</a> includes unmatched <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/05/ginger-page-for-iphone-powerful.html">accessibility</a> features for people with a variety of needs. The potentially larger screen size will likely benefit most users. The benefits and trade-offs of larger screen phones has been explored with Android phones for years, and hopefully Apple has been able to iron out any lasting challenges. Aside from the form factor, Apple may introduce new software or hardware features that impact people with disabilities at their event. Stay tuned for information about how Apple's announcements impact <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/06/ios-8-more-accessible-than-ever.html">accessibility</a>.</div></div>

Diposting oleh Abdullah Syafii

iOS 8 Accessibility Roundup: More Accessible Than Ever

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.apple.com/ios/ios8/quicktype/images/third_party_screen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Credit: Apple" border="0" height="271" src="http://images.apple.com/ios/ios8/quicktype/images/third_party_screen.jpg" title="iPhone 5s using third-party Swipe keyboard" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://devimages.apple.com.edgekey.net/technologies/images/ios-8-icon.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Credit: Apple" border="0" height="100" src="https://devimages.apple.com.edgekey.net/technologies/images/ios-8-icon.png" title="iOS 8 icon" width="100" /></a>Today, <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/04/apple-announces-wwdc-2014-will.html">Apple</a> previewed iOS 8, the next operating system for <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/11/made-for-iphone-hearing-aids-to-be.html">iPhone</a>, <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/04/ipad-mini-nexus-7-or-kindle-fire-hdx.html">iPad</a>, and iPod touch. iOS 8 builds on existing accessibility features to offer some exciting new possibilities for iOS users with disabilities. Many websites will have general information about iOS 8, but this post will focus on <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/04/apple-announces-wwdc-2014-will.html">accessibility</a> related changes to iOS. iOS 8 includes new keyboard options, improved <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/11/claropdf-app-pdf-text-to-speech-and.html">text-to-speech</a> voices, improved <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2012/09/what-is-guided-access.html">Guided Access</a> features, and improved <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/09/new-in-ios-7-ask-siri-to-turn-on.html">Siri</a> functionality among other accessibility related features. Apple can always add or alter features before the general release. The new operating system will be available this fall for the general public.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>QuickType and Keyboard</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.apple.com/v/ios/ios8/a/images/hero-icons/quicktype_icon.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://images.apple.com/v/ios/ios8/a/images/hero-icons/quicktype_icon.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Apple's iOS 8 will include a built in predictive keyboard called QuickType. This new software keyboard will predict words for the user as they type. Once the word you want to enter appears in the suggestion bar above the keyboard, you simply tap it to insert that word. This feature will cut down on key strokes needed to enter words which will benefit people with dexterity challenges. QuickType even takes context into account so if your typing an email it will suggest more formal language that if you are writing a text message. QuickType will be similar to the <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/08/cowriter-for-ios-provides-powerful-and.html">Co:Writer app</a>, but will work across all apps on your devices.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In addition to Apple's own QuickType keyboard, iOS 8 will allow third-party developers to develop keyboards for system wide use. For example, <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/03/any-developer-can-now-integrate-fleksys.html">Fleksy</a> could be updated to work with every app on the <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/09/the-touch-id-fingerprint-sensor-on-new.html">iPhone</a> or iPad. This flexibility gives users with different abilities the opportunity to switch keyboards to one that fits their needs. For users who are blind or visually impaired downloading the fast and accessible Fleksy keyboard may allow them to more easily enter text.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Health</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.apple.com/v/ios/ios8/a/images/hero-icons/health_icon.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://images.apple.com/v/ios/ios8/a/images/hero-icons/health_icon.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">iOS 8 takes big steps to help people manage data associated with their health. Users can input data into the health app through third-party health monitoring devices like a blood pressure reader or through apps. This data can then be automatically shared with doctors and other health care professionals to help insure timely and appropriate care. For instance, if a blood pressure or glucose reading was outside of a normal range, a doctor could be automatically alerted. This could help people with chronic conditions live more independently especially in their later years.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.apple.com/ios/ios8/health/images/health_hero.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://images.apple.com/ios/ios8/health/images/health_hero.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The health app will include another life saving feature called "in case of emergency card." This information card will be accessible from the lock screen and will allow first responders and emergency room doctors important health information in the case of an emergency. The card can include a photo, medical conditions, allergies, current medications, and more all to give life saving information to emergency medical personnel.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.apple.com/ios/ios8/health/images/health_screen_health.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Credit: Apple" border="0" height="320" src="http://images.apple.com/ios/ios8/health/images/health_screen_health.jpg" title="in case of emergency card" width="180" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Family Sharing</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.apple.com/v/ios/ios8/a/images/hero-icons/family_sharing_icon.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://images.apple.com/v/ios/ios8/a/images/hero-icons/family_sharing_icon.png" style="cursor: move;" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Family sharing will allow families with multiple iOS 8 devices to manage their iOS devices more harmoniously. Parents will be able to set up home sharing to monitor their child's physical location or to share purchased content from the iTunes store among members of the family. Children will also have to ask parents permission before purchasing an app.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Spotlight Search</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.apple.com/v/ios/ios8/a/images/hero-icons/spotlight_icon.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://images.apple.com/v/ios/ios8/a/images/hero-icons/spotlight_icon.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Spotlight search is an existing feature in iOS 7, but in iOS 8 it gets supercharged. Spotlight in iOS 8 will give Siri-like answers. Unlike Siri, which uses voice input, spotlight uses text input. This new form of input gives users with speech impairments the ability to type, instead of speak, queries and get meaningful results.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Touch ID</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.apple.com/v/ios/ios8/a/images/developer_icons/developer_capabilities_icon_touchid.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://images.apple.com/v/ios/ios8/a/images/developer_icons/developer_capabilities_icon_touchid.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">iOS 8 improves Touch ID by allowing third-party apps to unlock information using just a user's fingerprint. Touch ID is currently used for unlocking your device and making iTunes purchases. This feature already is great for blind users because it offers secure authentication without having to type, which can be a slower process with VoiceOver. In iOS 8, the ability to access third-party apps with just a finger print will expand on the already very accessible Touch ID feature of iOS 7.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Siri</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn.iphonehacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/ios7_siri_icon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://cdn.iphonehacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/ios7_siri_icon.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">iOS 8 will also bring improvements to Siri. Most notably, users will be able to activate Siri hands-free by saying "Hey, Siri." This new hands-free voice command may benefit people that have trouble activating the home button. This always listening feature is similar to Google's advanced voice search.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">iOS 8 will also offer faster dictation that appears on screen as you speak. This new feature will prusumably work with Siri and in app dictation.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Much More</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWsckP8c20be2Ew0XnX0fO0ZZsVlp8AE1KOsQSSuogAM5yG8GhkyqnMslvaWpocKhVFdoDhcjJZXMX258bBB_f_yVbOeqrZRRM_DYeBQ_UzNW_YnFXItNcyrhY5eIsbBiOJmogNOjsNkA/s1600/photo+(2).PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Credit: Apple" border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWsckP8c20be2Ew0XnX0fO0ZZsVlp8AE1KOsQSSuogAM5yG8GhkyqnMslvaWpocKhVFdoDhcjJZXMX258bBB_f_yVbOeqrZRRM_DYeBQ_UzNW_YnFXItNcyrhY5eIsbBiOJmogNOjsNkA/s1600/photo+(2).PNG" title="Slide detailing more features in iOS 8" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">iOS 8 will also include features that Apple did not have time to fully preview during their keynote. The first one included in the keynote was "Braille Keyboard for direct 6-dot Braille input." Other accessibility related features include the ability to use the advanced and high quality Alex voice. The Alex voice is currently available for the Mac and many users enjoy its high quality. iOS 8 will also include improved zoom for accessibility, but no further details on this feature where offered.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">iOS 8 will also include some enhancements to <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2012/09/what-is-guided-access.html">Guided Access</a>. Guided Access is a feature that locks a user into a single app. This is great for teachers administering tests on an iPad or parents of kids who are easily distracted. In iOS 8, users will be able to use <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/09/the-touch-id-fingerprint-sensor-on-new.html">Touch ID</a> to exit from <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2012/09/what-is-guided-access.html">Guided Access</a>. Users will also be able to use time limits and countdown timers to control Guided Access.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Another feature listed is "Speak screen," a somewhat mysterious feature than did not garner any further explanation from Apple. Speak screen may be a brand new accessibility feature or maybe unrelated to accessibility, but the name seems to imply some link to accessibility.</div>

Diposting oleh Abdullah Syafii