The improvements hinge on increased support for screen readers and the introduction of new keyboard shortcuts to assist blind users. For instance, when using spreadsheets, screen reader users will now hear the cell’s location and hear feedback when outside the main content area. The Calendar application now supports the JAWS, VoiceOver and ChromeVox screen readers and allows keyboard shortcuts for navigation between functions.
The advancements are a result of Google’s consultation with blind advocacy groups in the US. Google states that the work is not yet done in terms of making their applications accessible and is welcoming feedback from disabled users.
A statement made on Google’s official blog reads “In the weeks and months ahead, we’ll continue to improve our products for blind users. We believe that people who depend on assistive technologies deserve as rich and as productive an experience on the web as sighted users, and we’re working to help that become a reality.”
Google Docs are widely used in both business and education, including some Australian universities. A report by the Accessible Technology Initiative at California State University has previously cautioned US universities on campus-wide adoption of Google’s Apps for Education due to accessibility concerns. Any steps taken to accommodate the needs of people with a disability are very much welcome.
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