Accessibility Update

May 2009

The Microsoft Accessibility Update provides information about accessibility including accessibility options in Microsoft products. This newsletter is sent via e-mail to subscribers in the first week of the month and is also published on the Microsoft Accessibility Web site.

Preview Magnifier in Windows 7

Magnifier enlarges part of the screen making it easier to see small objects such as program and document icons. In Windows 7, Magnifier features new full screen and lens mode options. In full screen mode, most of the screen is magnified within a picture frame-like viewing area. In lens mode, the area around the mouse pointer is magnified. When you move the mouse pointer, the area of the screen that is magnified moves along with it.

Magnifier in Lens mode

Assistive Technology Spotlight: SARA (scanning and reading appliance)

Freedom Scientific's SARA (Scanning and Reading Appliance) is an affordable and easy-to-use solution for those with low vision or who are blind or deaf-blind. The SARA enables the reading of a wide variety of printed material including books, documents, mail, newspapers, magazines, and so much more. Using Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology, the SARA works like a computer scanner that recognizes text, translates it into speech, then reads the text aloud.

Accessibility solution for: Blind, low vision

Manufacturer Information: Freedom Scientific

For Developers

Windows Automation API Overview
This overview highlights the similarities and differences between Microsoft Active Accessibility and UI Automation, describes the components and features that enable the two technologies to work together, and provides guidelines for choosing which technology to implement.

The MSDN Accessibility Developer Resource Center pulls together content and resources regarding the development of accessibility products and technologies. Bookmark the location and stay connected to code samples, community sites, technical articles and documentation, upcoming events, and much more.

Quick Tip: Choose Colors Used On Web Pages

To make Web pages easier to see, you can change the text, background, link, and hover colors in Internet Explorer.

In Windows Vista, on the Start menu:

Select Internet Explorer.

In Internet Explorer, select:

The Tools menu.
Internet Options.

On the General tab, select:

The Colors button.

Under Colors:

Remove the check mark from the Use Windows colors check box.
Choose a color for the associated item by selecting it, then choosing a color from the colors palette.

Colors dialog box where Web colors can be selected.

Find more Windows Vista tutorials

In Windows XP, on the Start menu:

Select Internet Explorer.

In Internet Explorer, select:

The Tools menu.
Internet Options.

On the General tab, select:

The Colors button.

Under Colors:

Remove the check mark from the Use Windows colors check box.
Choose a color for the associated item by selecting it, then choosing a color from the colors palette.

Find more Windows XP tutorials

Accessibility Links