Microsoft has always been at the forefront of making computing more accessible. Windows 12 continues this tradition with new features and updates that make using a PC easier for everyone. Here are 5 key ways Microsoft is improving accessibility in Windows 12:
1. New Accessibility Options in Settings
Windows 12 introduces a revamped Accessibility section in Settings that makes finding and managing accessibility features simpler.
Key improvements:
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Accessibility options are now more logically grouped into vision, hearing, mobility etc. This makes finding relevant tools easier.
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There are detailed descriptions for each setting that explain how it can help. This aids discovery of new assistive features.
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A new accessibility checker highlights potential issues and suggests recommended settings. This simplifies optimizing Windows for your needs.
Overall, the updated design removes friction in enabling accessibility settings in Windows 12.
2. Enhanced Narrator Screen Reader
Narrator, the built-in screen reader, has gained powerful new capabilities in Windows 12.
Notable enhancements:
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Natural voices make speech output more human-sounding and easier to understand.
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Read by sentence mode improves text comprehension when reading long passages.
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Read aloud punctuation for more contextual clues like when a sentence ends.
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Web hint feature provides audible cues when interacting with web page elements.
With these additions, Narrator becomes an even more versatile screen reading solution in Windows 12.
3. Focus Mode for Fewer Distractions
Windows 12 introduces Focus mode to minimize distractions for users who are easily distracted.
How it helps:
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Hides wallpaper, notifications, taskbar icons and other on-screen clutter.
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Silences notifications and blocks app notifications and pop-ups.
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Darkens desktop peripheral areas to emphasize open windows.
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Features an ambient background noise option to mask distracting sounds.
Together this creates an immersive, distraction-free environment for focus and concentration.
4. Improved Voice Typing
Voice typing usability gets a boost in Windows 12 through accuracy and speed enhancements.
Key improvements:
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Faster voice processing means your speech is transcribed more rapidly.
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Punctuation dictation like commas, periods, question marks etc now supported.
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Automatic accent detection allows accurate transcription regardless of accent.
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In-context editing enables quick voice correction of misinterpreted words.
With real-time transcription closer to typing speeds, voice typing becomes a true keyboard alternative.
5. Better Text Readability Customization
Windows 12 makes it easier to optimize text display with new text resizing, spacing, and color options under Accessibility settings.
What’s new:
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Per-app text scaling sets different text sizes on a per-app basis.
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Variable font spacing adjusts space between letters for enhanced readability.
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Line focus mode highlights and enlarges current line you’re reading.
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Text highlighter tool spotlights words, lines or paragraphs for easier tracking.
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Color filters overlay color tints customizable to your needs.
Together these allow comprehensive text readability enhancement tailored to each user’s needs.
In summary:
With simplified configuration, smarter tools, and cutting-edge functionality, Windows 12 sets a new benchmark for computing accessibility. Microsoft continues demonstrating technology leadership in inclusive design.
