In today’s digital age, accessibility tools are essential for inclusivity and making the most of technology. Android, the most used operating system in the world, has a variety of these available to be more inclusive and friendly.
Thus, from reading-aloud functions to simplified navigation options, such developments seek to serve users with disabilities. For this reason, at Insiderbits, we invite you to explore some of today’s mobile accessibility tools.
Assistive Touch for Android
Assistive Touch for Android is an application that enables a customizable floating button, providing quick access to favorite functions. This app allows you to easily manage volume, capture screenshots, and more.
Data sheet
In Google Play Store it presents the following data:
- Average 4.6 stars out of 5 in user rating with more than 2 million user opinions
- App version 4.0.8 updated as of January 14, 2024
- Requires Android 6.0 or later versions to function
- Offered by Assistive Touch Team
- More than 50 million downloads
Its usefulness is undeniable; it facilitates access and indirectly protects the device’s physical buttons. Its functions include:
- Customizable floating button. The button can be placed anywhere on the screen and adapted to specific functions.
- Quick screenshot. By tapping the floating button, you can capture your Android device’s screen without using the physical buttons.
- Access to essential settings. It allows quick access to Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, brightness, and more.
- Gesture navigation. It facilitates its functionality through gestures, which are applicable for actions such as sliding to go back or opening the home screen.
It is perfect for users who seek to simplify their mobile phone use through a versatile element that improves the device’s handling and efficiency.
4.6/5
DEF-ISL
The DEF-ISL application simplifies learning Indian Sign Language (ISL). Its extensive collection, complemented by videos and illustrations, is ideal for those with hearing impairments.
Data sheet
In Google Play Store it presents the following data:
- Average 4.6 stars out of 5 in user rating with more than 3 thousand user opinions
- App version 3.0.5 updated as of September 21, 2023
- Requires Android 5.0 or later versions to function
- Offered by SriJay Software Solutions Pvt Ltd
- More than 100 thousand downloads
Created by DEF, an institution for people who are deaf or hard of hearing, it guarantees a comprehensive approach to connecting people with disabilities with society. Among the functions of the application, the following stand out:
- Large collection of signs and phrases. Its extensive database includes more than 50,000 signs and phrases in Indian Sign Language.
- Videos and illustrations. Explicit videos and illustrations accompany each sign and phrase.
- Adapted for users with hearing problems. It is designed comprehensively for those who have hearing impairments.
- Personalized learning. Its instructional pace is adaptable, and lessons can be repeated as necessary.
It is one of the accessibility tools that fascinates its way of introducing its users to inclusive communication.
Auslan Dictionary
Auslan Dictionary is a video dictionary app for Australian Sign Language (Auslan). It is a particular development among accessibility tools due to its simple search functionality, where each sign has an accompanying video that shows how to do it.
Data sheet
- The Google Play Store presents the following data:
- Average 4.6 stars out of 5 in user rating with about 144 user opinions
- App version 1.16.7 updated as of April 20, 2024
- Requires Android 6.0 or later versions to function
- Offered by Daniel Porteous
- More than 50 thousand downloads
It is an option that already stands out in its category despite its poor usability compared to similar ones. The functions that can be considered decisive in the user experience are:
- Video dictionary. It offers a vast collection of signs in Australian Sign Language accompanied by a demonstration video.
- Simple search. It has an intuitive search engine.
- Complete guide. It provides everything from basic concepts to more advanced terms.
- Accessibility. It is designed to be accessible and friendly to everyone, especially those interested in inclusive communication.
Its visual approach makes it one of the most innovative applications within the category of mobile accessibility tools.
5/5
Bright BSL – Sign Language
Bright BSL is a mobile development that allows you to learn British Sign Language (BSL) anytime, anywhere, in a fun and effective way. Its innovative artificial intelligence system ensures you know and retain your skills over time.
Data sheet
In Google Play Store it presents the following data:
- Average 4.5 stars out of 5 in user rating with more than 2 thousand user opinions
- App version 1.12 updated as of May 4, 2024
- It requires Android 5.0 or later versions to function
- Offered by SignLab
- More than 100 thousand downloads
Its creators, with more than 35 years of experience in teaching, have managed to guide their users with this tool. Of its functions, users usually highlight:
- 20 modules with lessons and signs. It provides a learning structure organized into twenty modules focused on specific topics.
- Visual dictionary. It provides a complete visual dictionary with all the signs present in the lessons.
- Practice tests and dialogues. It includes practice assessments and interactive dialogues.
- Tips on grammar and culture. Gives advice related to British Sign Language grammar and culture.
Its practicality is so complete that it serves to communicate and learn the language to connect personally and professionally.
5/5
Stamurai: Stuttering Therapy
Among our accessibility tools is Stamurai, a comprehensive stuttering treatment app designed for people of all ages. Its therapeutic design offers exciting customization options for daily practices at home.
Data sheet
In Google Play Store it presents the following data:
- Average 4.5 stars out of 5 in user rating with more than 5 thousand user opinions
- App version 7.4.35 updated as of February 11, 2023
- It requires Android 5.0 or later versions to function
- Offered by Stamurai Speech Therapy
- More than 100 thousand downloads
It is an excellent tool for regaining confidence when speaking through this development, designed and created as a digital treatment. Of its most essential functions, we can mention the following:
- Guided training. Offers personalized training plans to treat stuttering.
- Practice tools. Provides practical tools for practicing at home, such as recording with feedback on pronunciation and rhythm.
- Evaluations and monitoring. Conduct periodic evaluations to measure progress and make adjustments as needed.
- Supportive community. Connect with other users who are also working on overcoming stuttering.
Stuttering is treatable, and this tool effectively improves speech fluency and overcomes the challenges of this communicative condition.
4.7/5
Be My Eyes
With a design focused on people with visual limitations, Eyes assists with video calls from a network of volunteers and companies. Thus, the development offers visual help through third parties with the lens of mobile devices.
Data sheet
In Google Play Store it presents the following data:
- Average 4.4 stars out of 5 in user rating with more than 30 thousand user opinions
- App version 2.5.3 updated as of May 23, 2024
- It requires Android 5.0 or later versions to function
- Offered by Be My Eyes
- More than 1 million downloads
Many contribute with visual support through this innovative, collaborative tool. Its functions that can be considered decisive in the user experience are:
- Visual support in real-time. It connects its users with companies and volunteers through live video calls.
- Extended community. Its global reach facilitates interaction regardless of location or time of day.
- Anonymity and free of charge. Calls are completely anonymous and free, promoting open and barrier-free communication.
- Universal accessibility. Take advantage of the reach of mobile technology to bring development to every corner of the world.
Be My Eyes is based on the contribution and benefit of small acts of kindness, an initiative that has worked well for all its users.
4.8/5
Sullivan+ (blind, low vision)
Sullivan+ is a visual assistance application provided by TUAT to improve accessibility for people with visual impairments. It informs users about the information captured through their smartphone camera.
Data sheet
In Google Play Store it presents the following data:
- Average 4.3 stars out of 5 in user rating with more than a thousand user opinions
- App version 2.4.5 updated as of April 25, 2024
- Requires Android 5.0 or later versions to function
- Offered by TUAT Corp.
- More than 100 thousand downloads
An option within the accessibility tools aimed at visuals is worth considering. Of its most essential functions, we can mention the following:
- Personalized visual assistance. It uses the smartphone camera to generate helpful information for people with optical limitations.
- Object recognition. Using a recognition system, identify and describe what the camera captures, such as products, signs, or everyday elements.
- Reading text. It can read live printed text to transform it into audible information.
- Intuitive interface. Designed to be easy to use and accessible.
It is a versatile tool for those seeking greater independence daily.
4.4/5
Accessibility Tools: Helpful Mobile Assistance
Using accessibility tools is essential for taking advantage of current technology. That is why at Insiderbits, we discuss the innovative applications developed for mobile phones today.
You don’t have to resist technological advances; you must try them to see how useful they are. Give way to the digital age and discover in our space everything that technology has for us in general.
