YouView has released a software update that aims to improve accessibility for partially sighted customers.
The most recent update brings a high contrast black and white menu to the platform which will make for easier navigation for those with sight impairments.
The update comes as a result of work between YouView and the RNIB (Royal National Institute of Blind People) and Scope charities.
Read Recombu Digital’s guide to YouViewSusie Buckridge, Director of Product at YouView says, “We want everyone across the UK to be able to enjoy their favourite TV via YouView and to do this we understand how important it is to for YouView to be accessible.
“We have worked closely with the RNIB and Scope to ensure everything we add will allow the YouView journey to be seamless and easy as possible for all of our customers.”
The small picture-in-picture screen that’s normally situated in the top right corner of the menu when you’re browsing the EPG now has the option to be turned off. This can help improve navigation for those with cognitive impairments.
Future updates will also help improve menu navigation for blind and partially sighted customers as well as those with cognitive and motor skill issues.
YouView boxes purchased independently (ones that have not been bought as part of BT TV or TalkTalk TV) will get the update first while BT and TalkTalk customers will get the update later.
The RNIB has previously worked with TVOnics to produce the DTR-HD500, a talking Freeview HD set top box which uses Inova’s text-to-speech technology. Improved accessibility options for YouView will likely include similar technology to assist with navigation of both the linear channel and on-demand menus.
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