[Njtechdiv] Microsoft and Apple helped build new braille display standard

[Andy]

Yep, I saw this last night.  Very exciting!


> On Jun 1, 2018, at 10:46 AM, Mario Brusco via Njtechdiv <njtechdiv at nfbnet.org> wrote:
> 
> Microsoft and Apple helped build new braille display standard
> https://www.engadget.com/2018/05/31/microsoft-apple-usb-if-accessibility-braille-display-standard/
> 
> 5.31.18
> 
> Accessibility is an increasingly important issue when it comes to tech; 
> while new technology can certainly make it easier for people with 
> accessibility issues to interact with the world, it can also end up 
> shutting people out. Today, the non-profit USB Implementers Forum 
> (USB-IF) announced a new standard for braille displays. It was developed 
> in cooperation with Microsoft, Apple and other tech industry leaders.
> 
> The USB Human Interface Device (HID) standard will make it easier for 
> blind or low vision users to use braille displays across operating 
> systems and hardware. It will also remove the need for specialized or 
> custom drivers and simplify development.
> 
> "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," said the 
> 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."
> 
> It's really nice to see traditional rivals like Apple and Microsoft 
> working together on something as important as accessibility. Hopefully 
> this partnership is fruitful and the two companies (along with other 
> tech industry leaders) continue to work to make computers and technology 
> more accessible for those with different kinds of impairments.
> 
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