In a world where people are becoming more dependent on technology, accessibility is already an important issue.
The non-profit USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF) has collaborated with Apple, Google, Microsoft and other industry leaders to create a human interface device (HID) standard for Braille displays.
The idea is to make Braille displays a simple plug-and-play process. This is done by removing the need for Braille devices to have specially designed software or drivers.
What this means, users with vision impairment can simply plug in a USB mouse or keyboard to read like normal. The standard seeks to make this process function similarly across operation systems, whether it’s a PC, Mac, or Android device.
"We see the opportunity that advancements in technology can create for people with disabilities and have a responsibility as an industry to develop new ways of empowering everyone to achieve more," explained Microsoft's Windows accessibility program manager lead, Jeff Petty.
"Developing a HID standard for braille displays is one example of how we can work together, across the industry, to advance technology in a way that benefits society and ultimately improve the unemployment rate for people with disabilities."
With the finalized standard, device manufacturers and operating system providers can start making future devices and software updates to support it.
External link: USB-IF Publishes HID Standard for Braille Displays
