Apple is celebrating Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) throughout the week of May 16, 2022, by rolling out a wide array of new accessibility features and content across its ecosystem. The initiatives span Apple Store services, fitness offerings, maps, music, and entertainment, reinforcing Apple's commitment to inclusive design.
Expansion of SignTime in Apple Stores
Apple's on-demand sign language service, SignTime, will become available in Canada starting May 19, 2022. Customers can connect with a trained sign language interpreter via American Sign Language (ASL) for Apple Support or in-store consultations. This service was already live in the United States (ASL), the United Kingdom (British Sign Language), and France (French Sign Language). The expansion reflects Apple's ongoing effort to remove communication barriers for Deaf and hard-of-hearing customers.
Live Sessions and Social Media Tutorials
Apple Stores worldwide are hosting live sessions this week to demonstrate how users can leverage built-in accessibility features on iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Customers can attend in-person or view recorded tutorials on Apple Support’s social media channels. Topics include VoiceOver, Magnifier, Switch Control, and AssistiveTouch.
Accessibility Assistant Shortcut for Mac and Apple Watch
Apple is introducing an Accessibility Assistant shortcut within the Shortcuts app for both Mac (macOS Monterey or later) and Apple Watch. This intelligent tool asks users a series of questions about their needs and preferences, then recommends relevant accessibility features such as VoiceOver, Zoom, Reduce Motion, or On/Off switch labels. The shortcut can be customized and shared, making it easier for users to tailor their devices without digging through Settings.
Fitness+ Workouts for All Abilities
Apple Fitness+ is enhancing its workouts with several accessibility updates. Trainer Bakari Williams will use ASL in workouts to demonstrate moves and provide encouragement. All workouts and meditations will now include ASL interpretation, and closed captioning is available in six languages: English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, and Portuguese. Audio Hints, which deliver short descriptive cues for blind or low-vision users, will be a standard feature. Additionally, two popular series are being renamed: "Time to Walk" becomes "Time to Walk or Push," and "Time to Run" becomes "Time to Run or Push" — explicitly welcoming wheelchair users. Trainers also demonstrate modifications in every workout, such as seated alternatives or lower-intensity variations, so that users of any fitness level can participate.
Apple Maps Guide: Parks Access for All
Apple Maps now features a guide titled "Parks Access for All," created in partnership with Gallaudet University, the world’s only university designed to be barrier-free for Deaf, Deafblind, and hard-of-hearing students. The guide highlights accessible trails, parking, restrooms, and programs in over 100 U.S. national and state parks. Users can filter by features like wheelchair-accessible trails, ASL-guided tours, or sensory-friendly areas. Additionally, Apple Maps is spotlighting businesses that prioritize Deaf community access — a topic CEO Tim Cook raised during his commencement address at Gallaudet on May 12, 2022.
Apple Music ‘Saylist’ Playlists
Apple Music introduces "Saylist" — a collection of playlists organized by specific sounds, such as ocean waves, birdsong, or vinyl crackle. While designed originally for those practicing vocal sounds or in speech therapy, these playlists are open to anyone who wants a focused auditory experience. Each playlist is curated by sound therapists and includes tracks that highlight a single acoustic element.
Apple TV+ Disability Representation
Apple TV+ is curating a special collection of movies and shows that authentically represent people with disabilities. Featured titles include CODA (starring Marlee Matlin), Eternals (with Lauren Ridloff), and Introducing, Selma Blair. The collection also includes behind-the-scenes stories about the creation of accessible content and interviews with actors and filmmakers who are advocates for disability representation.
App Store, Apple Books, and Podcasts
The App Store is featuring a dedicated editorial section showcasing accessibility-focused apps and developer stories. Apple Books has a new collection of memoirs, fiction, and non-fiction by and about people with disabilities, including works on adaptive sports, assistive technology, and Deaf culture. Apple Podcasts spotlights shows that discuss how technology advances accessibility, such as interviews with engineers who design eye-tracking interfaces or haptic feedback systems.
Additional Features Coming Later in 2022
Beyond this week’s celebrations, Apple has previewed forthcoming accessibility features for iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, and macOS, expected in software updates later in 2022. These include Door Detection (for users who are blind or low-vision), Live Captions (real-time captions for any audio), Apple Watch Mirroring (control an Apple Watch from an iPhone), and expanded support for Siri commands that control on-screen elements. These updates build on Apple’s long history of embedding accessibility into the core of its operating systems.
Apple’s comprehensive Accessibility Awareness Day initiatives demonstrate a holistic approach—from retail services to digital content—ensuring that users of all abilities can fully engage with the Apple ecosystem. The week’s events and features are available now or rolling out over the coming days.
Source: 9to5Mac News