Transcription of Accessibility Today VideoToday, we live in a digital world that offers us more information, more things to do, and more ways to communicate than ever before. Like you, millions of people around the world rely on personal computers to help them manage an increasing amount of digital information. At Microsoft, our mission is to enable people and businesses throughout the world to realize their full potential. We consider our mission statement a promise to our customers. We deliver on that promise by striving to create technology that is accessible to every person who uses it. At Microsoft, we are committed to developing technology for everyone- including individuals who experience the world in different ways because of difficulties or disabilities. Microsoft's Commitment to AccessibilityBill Gates, Chairman, Microsoft Corporation: "Over the last 30 years, our software has enabled hundreds of millions of people to fulfill their personal and professional goals. Our vision is to create innovative technology that is accessible to everyone and that adapts to each person's needs. Accessible technology eliminates barriers for people with disabilities and it enables individuals to take full advantage of their capabilities." Computer technology is a powerful tool for millions of people with a wide range of difficulties and impairments. Research has shown that most computer users can benefit from using accessible technology. Consider that:
Accessible technology makes it easy for you to adapt your PC to meet your needs. Robert Sinclair, Director, Accessible Technology Group at Microsoft: "By addressing the needs of people with a wide range of abilities, we gain deeper insights into the challenges that people face as they interact with technology. As a result, Microsoft is able to create technology that is more functional for everyone." Accessible technology includes both accessibility settings built into programs, and specialty assistive technology products. Microsoft builds accessibility settings into Windows Vista and other programs, which enable users to adjust their computer to make it easier to see, hear, and use. Microsoft also works closely with manufacturers of assistive technology products to ensure our customers have a wide array of options for their Windows computer. Accessibility in Windows VistaWindows Vista was designed to make computers easier to use. Microsoft invested more than three years of research to better understand the needs of people who experience difficulties or impairments that affect their computer use. Windows Vista helps users build their computer skills and confidence over time, so it becomes easier for them to use their personal computers effectively. Microsoft made several major accessibility investments in Windows Vista. The new Ease of Access Center is a central location where you can find and adjust the accessibility settings and programs in Windows Vista. The Ease of Access Center offers quick access to accessibility settings and programs, recommends settings, and lets you explore categories of accessibility options. Narrator, which converts text to speech, has a new natural-sounding voice in Windows Vista. Magnifier, which enlarges a portion of the computer screen for easier visibility, now has higher quality magnification and more magnification levels and options. And, you can now use your voice to interact with your computer with Speech Recognition, a state-of-the-art technology built into Windows Vista. Windows Vista also provides immediate compatibility with a wide array of assistive technology products and devices. For more information, visit www.microsoft.com/enable/ Robert Sinclair, Director, Accessible Technology Group at Microsoft: "At Microsoft, we create technology that adapts to an individual needs as they change over the course of a day or throughout their lives. We believe this approach will continue to make it easier and more natural for everyone to use a computer. And, the accessibility innovations in Windows Vista move us much closer to that goal." Innovative Assistive TechnologyAssistive technology products are innovative technology solutions that empower people with physical and cognitive difficulties to use computers more easily and effectively. Microsoft provides an outstanding development platform for developing innovative assistive technology products. We work closely with assistive technology companies around the world to ensure specialized products such as voice recognition software, screen readers, screen magnifiers, and on-screen keyboards are compatible with Microsoft products and immediately available whenever new versions of Windows are released. As a result, Windows users have more choice in the types of the technology solutions they can use to meet their particular needs. Over 300 assistive technology products are compatible with Windows. For more information on assistive technology products for Windows, visit www.microsoft.com/enable/at/. Choosing the Right Assistive TechnologyWhen selecting assistive technology, it is critical to find products that are compatible with your existing software programs, and will address your specific needs. This can be challenging, but experts are available to help. A network of Microsoft Accessibility Resource Centers can help you learn more about assistive and accessible technology and determine which solutions are right for you. These experts can demonstrate both accessibility settings in Windows and specialty assistive technology products. You can try accessibility settings while you're at the center, or take home a Microsoft Accessibility CD Set to explore accessibility on your own. Some centers also have lending libraries, so you may be able to try out an assistive technology product before you buy. To locate a center near you, visit www.microsoft.com/enable/centers/. The Future of Accessible TechnologyMicrosoft is committed to continuous innovation to develop products that are more accessible-for everyone. Bill Gates, Chairman, and Microsoft Corporation: "Windows Vista is the latest advance in computer accessibility-but not the last. As people look for new and better ways to interact with their computers, the need for accessible technology will continue to grow. At Microsoft, we will continue to work to develop the most accessible products possible, and to build partnerships that lead to new accessibility innovations that enable people of all ages and abilities to realize their full potential." For more information and resources, visit our Web site at www.microsoft.com/enable/. Microsoft Accessibility Resources include:
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