Google, Apple and Microsoft team up to create new Braille standard

The USB HID standard make it much easier to
use Braille displays across different devices

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The group of tech firms, operating as the non-profit USB
Implementers Forum, hope the Braille standard will help to make
computing more accessible to blind users and those with low vision,
Engadget reports. 

At the moment, some Braille displays only work with
certain PCs, or require additional software and drivers to use,
says CNet. The new USB Human Interface
Device (HID) standard will make it easier to use Braille readers
across operating systems and hardware.

Blind or low vision users will be able to plug their
Braille display into a PC, Mac and Android
devices and use it instantly, just like a conventional
USB mouse or keyboard.

The new software standard will also help streamline the
development process for tech manufacturers making accessories with
Braille displays. 

Jeff Petty, Microsoft’s accessibility programme manager,
said: “Developing a HID standard for Braille displays is one
example of how we can work together, across the industry, to
advance technology in a way that benefits society, and ultimately
improve the unemployment rate for people with
disabilities.”

Tech giant will start integrating the new software standard into
their products as soon as next year, says Alphr.

The announcement marks another significant step by tech
companies towards improving accessibility. 

Last month, Microsoft unveiled a new Xbox controller that aims to assist
gamers with disabilities.  The controller, which takes
the form of a board with different buttons and touchpads, has 19
inputs that allow gamers to plug in specialised accessories to
improve usability.