Microsoft focuses on innovations and collaborations in its range of assistive products during the fourteenth Ability Summit held in 2024.
The company introduced new devices and updates in the conference aimed at supporting individuals with disabilities through advanced technologies.
Among the various tools and enhancements is the Azure AI platform, which includes features such as AI-powered audio descriptions and Azure AI Studio that enables developers with special abilities to create machine learning applications.
The recent updates also unveiled additions like support for new languages and detailed descriptions generated by artificial intelligence systems for the Seeing AI application. Additionally, new guides were introduced containing best practices in several fields, including designing accessible buildings and increasing support for mental health.
The company also plans to introduce a new feature called “Speak on My Behalf” later this year, aiming to assist individuals with conditions like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and other speech-affecting disorders using neural voice technologies designed to facilitate communication.
Work on this project has been ongoing for some time with partners such as the nonprofit organization Team Gleason, which focuses on ALS patients.
Microsoft announced its commitment to ensure the use of this technology for beneficial purposes, with plans to release it later this year.
The company also announced its collaboration with the Answer ALS Foundation and the Translational Development Institute to expand the available clinical and genetic data for significant research on ALS.
Copilot acquires new accessibility features that allow users to direct requests to the assistant to activate features like live captions and narration, in addition to other aid tools.
An accessibility assistant feature has been provided within the trial version of Microsoft 365 software such as Word, with the company noting that this feature will soon be available in other programs like Outlook and PowerPoint.
Microsoft is also releasing four new guidance booklets in collaboration with the nonprofit organization, Mental Health America, containing several tools for mental care. These booklets include developer-oriented guidelines to create experiences that promote mental health.
Jenny Lay-Flurrie, responsible for Accessibility Initiatives at Microsoft, highlighted the importance of artificial intelligence technology in developing advanced tools for individuals with special needs.
She mentioned that artificial intelligence technologies are not a new concept but offer renewed possibilities to facilitate the lives of individuals with disabilities. For example, the Microsoft 365 Copilot program has successfully enhanced individuals’ efficiency and ease of work.
