News

Apple has unveiled a new category of accessibility features for speech in its latest software updates. This new feature aims to support individuals who are non-speaking or at risk of losing their ability to speak. With the introduction of Live Speech, users can type messages that are then spoken aloud by their devices. There is also an option to create a custom voice that sounds like the user. Apple calls this feature Personal Voice, and it uses machine learning to generate a voice that resembles the user’s own. The process involves the user reading aloud a series of randomly generated phrases, which are then used to train the voice model. The custom voice remains locally on the device, but it can also be sent to iCloud if the user wants to use it on multiple devices.

This new addition to Apple’s accessibility features aims to make communication easier for individuals who are non-speaking or have difficulty speaking. It can be especially beneficial for people with conditions such as ALS, where speech loss is a common symptom. By allowing users to type messages that are spoken aloud, Apple’s Live Speech feature provides a way for individuals to communicate effectively in person or on calls.

The introduction of Personal Voice takes accessibility a step further by enabling users to create a custom voice that sounds like them. While the generated voice may not be indistinguishable from the user’s natural voice, it provides a means for individuals to retain some level of personal expression and identity. This feature can be particularly helpful for individuals who are at risk of losing their ability to speak.

Apple’s commitment to privacy is evident in the development of these features. All voice processing occurs locally on the device, and no data is sent to the cloud. This ensures that personal voices are kept secure and mitigates the risk of misuse.

The introduction of these new speech accessibility features further solidifies Apple’s dedication to making its devices and services accessible to everyone. By integrating AI and machine learning, Apple continues to find innovative ways to address the unique needs of individuals with disabilities.

Sources:

– Source article: no URL provided

The post Apple Introduces New Speech Accessibility Features appeared first on Fagen Wasanni Technologies.