# Apple Introduces New Accessibility Features Ahead of WWDC 2023
As Apple prepares for its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June, the tech leader has unveiled a collection of new accessibility features aimed at improving the user experience for people with disabilities. This year signifies a notable achievement for Apple, as it commemorates four decades of advancements in accessibility, having established its Office of Disability in 1985.
## A Dedication to Accessibility
Apple CEO Tim Cook highlighted the company’s commitment to inclusivity, saying, “At Apple, accessibility is part of our DNA. Creating technology for all is a priority for everyone, and we’re proud of the innovations we’re rolling out this year.” These new features are expected to be launched with the forthcoming iOS 19 and macOS 16 updates, officially announced at WWDC.
## Major Accessibility Features
### Accessibility Nutrition Labels on the App Store
A key feature is the rollout of **Accessibility Nutrition Labels** on the App Store. This initiative is akin to the previously introduced Privacy Nutrition Labels, enabling users to readily identify the accessibility features an app offers before they download it. This encompasses options like VoiceOver, Voice Control, and captions, among others. Eliel Johnson, Vice President of User Experience and Design at CVS Health, commended this addition, noting its potential to foster transparency and accessibility within healthcare.
### Magnifier App for Mac
Additionally, Apple is bringing its **Magnifier app** to the Mac platform for the first time. Previously available on iPhone and iPad, this app enables users with low vision to enlarge their surroundings using a paired iPhone or USB camera. The app allows for various adjustments, such as brightness and contrast, helping users read text or identify objects more easily.
### Accessibility Reader
The new **Accessibility Reader** feature aims to assist reading for individuals with disabilities like dyslexia or low vision. This system-wide reading mode offers substantial customization options for text, including adjustments to font, color, and spacing. It can be accessed from any application, giving users the capability to interact with text in everyday situations, such as reading menus or books.
### Braille Access
Apple’s **Braille Access** feature converts Apple devices into comprehensive braille note-takers, integrating smoothly with the Apple ecosystem. Users can launch apps, take notes, and carry out calculations using braille input. This feature also supports Braille Ready Format (BRF) files, facilitating access to a wider range of braille literature.
### Live Captions on Apple Watch
With the forthcoming **watchOS 11**, Apple Watch will incorporate **Live Listen** controls, enabling users to manage listening sessions straight from their wrist. This feature enhances accessibility for users with hearing impairments by offering real-time captions during discussions.
### Vision Pro Enhancements
Apple Vision Pro will also receive substantial improvements, especially for users with low vision. The device will leverage its sophisticated camera system to provide functions like **Live Recognition**, which describes surroundings and reads documents through on-device machine learning.
### Personal Voice Improvements
The **Personal Voice** feature, first introduced in iOS 17, will see enhancements in iOS 19, cutting setup time from hours to less than a minute. Users need only to record ten phrases to create a voice that resembles their own, making it simpler for those at risk of losing their ability to speak.
## Additional Accessibility Features
In addition to these highlights, Apple is set to roll out a variety of other accessibility features, including:
– **Background Sounds**: Improved personalization options to aid users in managing distractions.
– **Eye Tracking**: New functionalities for users to make selections using their eye movements.
– **Assistive Access**: A simplified media player for Apple TV designed for users with intellectual disabilities.
– **Sound Recognition**: New tools to notify users about specific sounds, including their name being called.
– **Vehicle Motion Cues**: Intended to help alleviate motion sickness in vehicles.
## Conclusion
Apple’s dedication to accessibility is clear in its ongoing efforts to innovate and enhance the user experience for individuals with disabilities. With an extensive array of new features poised to launch later this year, Apple not only honors its legacy of accessibility but also paves the way for a more inclusive future in technology. For further information on these features, visit Apple’s official website.
