Transportation and communication equipment have been adapted in recent decades to meet the needs of people with physical, cognitive or behavior disabilities. Now cell phones will, too.
On Dec. 5, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, mobile phone manufacturers agreed to expand their reporting of features on phones that can assist customers with disabilities or special needs. The manufacturers discussed these changes after a recent review with stakeholders around the globe. Now, they plan to add details of 15 more features that are becoming more popular on cell phones and that can help make a difference to those with limited vision, hearing, dexterity or cognition.
The changes mean that manufacturers will begin reporting on more than 110 mobile phone features as part of the Global Accessibility Reporting Initiative (GARI). Launched in 2009, the initiative is managed by the Mobile Manufacturers Forum (MMF).
“These changes are a direct result of our discussions with users and groups around the world and will make it even easier for consumers to find a phone that will meet their individual needs,” said Michael Milligan, secretary general of the MMF.
Some of the new features to be reported include whether a phone has adjustable maximum volume control for those with limited or poor hearing; a front-facing camera that can be used by deaf people to sign and by those with limited dexterity for two-way video conferencing; and a high-contrast display mode to help users read the screen when they have impaired vision and voice notes, which can help those with short-term memory loss to recall information.
“These features can be of interest to all mobile phone users, but for those with a disability, they can make a big difference in the way you can use your phone and to communicate with others — so their value is even higher,” Milligan added.
