Windows Insiders are now able to explore a new build of Windows 11, which introduces noteworthy enhancements focused on accessibility. One of the standout features is the upgraded Voice Access, designed to isolate your voice for improved control of your PC, even in bustling environments. This feature empowers users to navigate their devices using voice commands alone. Upon activation, a dock appears at the top of the screen, displaying commands as they are spoken, providing immediate feedback on the user’s input.
Historically, utilizing Voice Access in noisy settings has posed challenges. However, this latest update aims to alleviate those issues, marking yet another step in Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to accessibility.
Microsoft and Accessibility
Since the introduction of eye tracking in Windows 10 back in 2017, Microsoft has consistently prioritized accessibility. This dedication is one of the company’s most admirable traits. Over the years, numerous features and hardware enhancements have emerged, all aimed at making technology more inclusive. For instance, the Read Aloud feature in Microsoft Edge not only aids in making PDFs more accessible but also enhances reading comprehension, allowing users to multitask effectively while listening to content on their screens.
Many users, including myself, have found Read Aloud invaluable for proofreading articles, as it helps identify typos and improves overall understanding.
New and Improved Accessibility in Windows 11
The latest Windows Insider build introduces several enhancements to accessibility features. Notably, Voice Access now includes Voice Isolation, which effectively filters out background noise and other speakers. This improvement significantly broadens the usability of Voice Access in various work environments, particularly in shared spaces where colleagues may be in close proximity.
Additionally, this Insider build enhances support for displays that adhere to the HID (Human Interface Device) standard within the Narrator feature. This standard facilitates plug-and-play compatibility for braille displays, supported by major tech companies including Microsoft and Apple.
Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29634.1000
Voice Isolation in Voice Access
- The introduction of Voice Isolation allows Voice Access to focus on your voice, filtering out background chatter and noise. This is particularly beneficial in shared offices or open-plan environments.
- To get started, Voice Access now offers three speech recognition modes under its settings:
- Voice Isolation — Filters out other speakers and background noise (requires a one-time voice setup).
- Remove background noise only — Eliminates non-speech sounds like typing or door slams, with no additional setup needed.
- No filtering — The default microphone input with no processing.
- Setting up Voice Isolation is straightforward; users simply select it from the menu and follow a brief guided setup to teach Voice Access their voice, ensuring privacy as all processing occurs on the device.
Narrator
Connecting braille displays with Narrator has become more seamless. The latest updates allow for instant connectivity with refreshable braille displays that utilize the HID standard, enabling true plug-and-play functionality. Users can easily connect via USB or Bluetooth, facilitating a wireless experience without the need for cumbersome setups.
- Compatible HID displays include popular models such as the Orbit Reader 20, Orbit Slate 340, Freedom Scientific Focus 40, and APH Mantis Q40.
- Notably, HID braille displays are now functional during the initial Windows setup, allowing users who are deaf-blind to independently configure their PCs right from the start.
- Customization options for braille input and output are readily available in the Accessibility settings under Narrator.
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