Apple publishes 50 ways to make devices easier for older adults
Apple has published a new support page with 50 accessibility tips for older adults, covering vision, hearing, and more across iPhone, iPad, Mac, and other devices.
The support page is divided into ten categories and mostly points to built-in accessibility features. Tips range from changing text size on an Apple Watch to having an iPhone alert you when a washing machine cycle is complete. Apple says the page reflects its belief that the best technology works for everyone, with products and services that are inclusive by design and built to adapt as life changes.
One feature highlighted on the page is Sound Recognition, which uses on-device intelligence to notify users when specific sounds are detected. The system recognizes 15 different sounds, and users can also train a device to listen for their name, electronic appliance beeps, alarms, or doorbells. On HomePod, it can detect the sound of a smoke or carbon monoxide alarm. Through CarPlay, it can listen for sirens, horns, and a crying baby and send an on-screen notification to the driver.
The page provides separate instructions for each supported device depending on the feature, including iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, Apple TV, Vision Pro, and CarPlay. According to 9to5Mac, the page is an impressive encapsulation of how many accessibility features are now available across Apple products, including some, like Sound Recognition, that may be less widely known.