Apple makes iPod accessible
Congratulations to Apple for working to make the iPod accessible to blind and low vision users. The new Apple iPod Shuffle includes a clever VoiceOver feature and three button control which makes it possible to navigate the iPod menus without the need to look at a visual display. This is a great example of how a company can win by applying universal design principles to product design.
The accessible ramps in sidewalks make the sidewalk easier for all of us as well as people in a wheelchair. In the same manner VoiceOver makes it possible for blind and low vision users to navigate the iPod, but this same user experience is great for people who don’t want to have to look at a screen – for instance while exercising.
The audio interface is controlled by a three button remote molded into the right earbud cord. Two buttons are dedicated to Volume Up and Volume Down. A third button is used to control the VoiceOver interface as follows:
- Single click – Play/pause.
- Double click – Go to next track.
- Triple click – Go to previous track.
- Press and hold while a song is playing – Hear the title and artist.
- Press and hold until you hear a tone – The playlists will be listed. Click when you hear the name of the playlist you want to go to.
Apple iPod Shuffle with small controls for VoiceOver user interface on the right ear bud cord.
April 9th, 2009 at 1:39 am
If you’re deaf or hard of hearing then I guess your stuffed with this design?
I wasn’t really sure how to take the design of the new Shuffle. If you look at this from a *customer focussed* design perspective I guess the focus has been on out-and-out minimalism and from that end it must be a design success.
The voice over and earphone mounted controls however, whilst a boon for accessibility (for visually impaired), are definitely controversial and may be seen by many as a regression in usable control.
Only time will tell I guess.