iPod Nano 4G and iTunes 8 add features for blind

The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) has praised Apple for including features on iTunes and the latest iPod Nano that allow for easier use by the blind or visually impared, with an improved accessibility page on Apple's website. The Nano now features options such as large fonts and a synthesized voice that speaks the names of menus, songs, and artists. This starts with iTunes 8; when the accessibility option is selected it creates the text-to-speech files that are then synced to the 4th gen Nano.

iTunes 8 is screen-reader friendly, compatible with GW-Micro Window-Eyes 7.0 on windows or the built in VoiceOver app for Mac OS X Leopard. Both programs use speech engines to vocalize the text and allow full control of functions with just the keyboard. The readers can also be used for content in the iTunes store, even allowing accounts to be created.

Filed under: iPod, Apple