Past Press Stories from 1997-2004
- 2004 Press Releases
- 2003 Press Releases
- 2002 Press Releases
- 2001 Press Releases
- 2000 Press Articles
- 1999 Press Articles
- 1998 Press Articles
- 1997 Press Articles
2004 Press Releases
Gates Stresses Value of Digital Technology in Making Information More Accessible to People with Vision or Print Disabilities
When representatives from libraries around the world gathered at Microsoft to share best practices for improving services to people who are blind or print disabled, Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates joined them to explore ideas for converting print and audio data to more accessible digital formats and distributing library resources over the Internet.
(November 15, 2004)
New Research from Forrester and Microsoft Shows Millions of Aging Baby Boomers Can Benefit from Accessible Technology
Regular readers of "Adam@home," a comic strip that appears daily in more than 275 U.S. newspapers, may be surprised that Microsoft is using Adam as the symbol for a new campaign to help aging workers and their employers use accessible technology to keep their competitive edge. But to cartoonist Brian Basset, the creator of "Adam@home," it makes perfect sense.
(February 2, 2004)
New Research Study Shows 57 Percent of Adult Computer Users Can Benefit From Accessible Technology
Microsoft Introduces Resources, Tutorials and Tips That Address Needs of Aging Workers and Employers
Accessible computer technology, often associated only with people with disabilities, can benefit a much larger segment of the population, according to a new study conducted by Forrester Data and commissioned by Microsoft Corp.
(February 2, 2004)
2003 Press Releases
Academy Award-Winning Actress Marlee Matlin Joins Sen. Tom Harkin, Easter Seals and Microsoft via Video Relay Service for Capitol Hill Showcase of Assistive Technology Innovation
Technology brought actress Marlee Matlin to Capitol Hill, October 14—virtually—as she joined Iowa Sen. Tom Harkin from Los Angeles via Sprint's Video Relay Service (VRS) at an event hosted by the office of Ohio Sen. Mike DeWine to discuss the positive impact of technology on people with disabilities. The two joined event sponsors Easter Seals and Microsoft Corp., as well as national disability leaders, government representatives and assistive technology (AT) vendors to celebrate the innovations in technology that are improving the quality of life for people with disabilities and to refocus attention on the fact that much more remains to be done.
(October 15, 2003)
Leading Corporations Join European Effort to Raise Awareness of Disabilities
There are more than 37 million people with physical disabilities in Europe, according to a recent report of the European Disability Forum, which found across the continent "a serious lack of understanding of what disability means and how many people it affects." To help counter the problem, Microsoft—long a leader in developing accessible technology—has joined nine other major corporations in sponsoring the 2003 European Year of People with Disabilities (EYPD), the largest disability-awareness campaign in Europe to date.
(May 15, 2003)
Resources Help Vendors Rapidly Market Products That Make Technology More Useful For People With Disabilities; Easter Seals Joins With Microsoft to Expand Online Product Catalog
(March 2003) New Federal Internship Program Taps Potential of Young Members of the Disability Community
The American Association of Disabled Persons and Microsoft have announced a new Microsoft-sponsored internship program to help disabled students interested in government careers in IT.
(February 2003) The American Association of People with Disabilities and Microsoft Collaborate on New Federal Internship Program
In an effort to empower people with disabilities as they continue the struggle to obtain meaningful employment, the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) and Microsoft Corp. announced February 19, a unique summer internship program designed for college and university students with disabilities. This new Microsoft-AAPD Federal Internship Program is made possible through a $325,000 grant to AAPD from Microsoft and will be administered by AAPD.
(February 2003)
2002 Press Releases
Statement from Microsoft on Presidential Signing of E-Government LegislationIn the wake of President George W. Bush's signing of legislation creating an Office of Electronic Government, Microsoft issued a statement from Jack Krumholtz, Director of Federal Affairs.
(December 2002) Microsoft and Freedom Scientific Launch PAC Mate, The First-Ever Pocket PC for People Who Are Blind
Microsoft Corporation and Freedom Scientific, Inc. announced, October 24, the availability of the PAC Mate by Freedom Scientific, a revolutionary personal data assistant (PDA) for people who are blind. This launch signals the first time a mainstream PDA product has been available to people with disabilities.
(October 2002) Pocket PC Device for Blind Users Debuts During National Disability Employment Awareness Month
The new PAC Mate from Freedom Scientific is breakthrough assistive technology, a high-end PDA for people who are blind that is equivalet to Pocket PC devices for sighted users and supports the same third-party applications.
(October 2002) World's First Internet Portal for Visually Impaired Children Brings Honors to Microsoft Canada and Bill Gates
The Canadian National Institute for the Blind honors Microsoft for helping build one of the world's most advanced digital-access systems for the blind, including a unique Internet portal that will boost blind children's access to digital information.
(August 2002) U.S. Regulations Motivate Technology Companies to Make Accessibility a Priority
One year after it took effect, Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act is driving the development of new accessible technologies and forging a partnership between government and industry that benefits people with disabilities.
(June 2002) Microsoft and Vendors Unite to Deliver Unprecedented Support For Assistive Technologies via Windows XP
Assistive Technology Vendors Unveil New Products That Take Advantage of Windows XP, Microsoft's Most Accessible Operating System
(March 2002) Windows XP Enables New Wave of Technologies for People with Disabilities
Makers of accessibility technology have announced innovative new products compatible with Windows XP, Microsoft's most accessible operating system.
(March 2002) Pangea Foundation and Microsoft Empower Community Organizations to Create Accessible Web Sites for People with Disabilities
Abilities Networks is both an information source about community services and a resource to help nonprofit organizations build and maintain Web sites easily accessed by people with disabilities.
(February 2002) Microsoft Announces Grants Designed to Boost Community Access to Technology Across U.S.
The company has announced 19 grants, totaling US $975,000 in cash and software, to nonprofit groups that connect the underserved to technology in U.S. communities where Microsoft has offices. Four of the recipients assist people and children with disabilities.
(January 2002)
2001 Press Releases
Ability Magazine: Microsoft Windows XP Attracts Users With DisabilitiesAccessibility enhancements in Windows XP allow customers with disabilities to become more productive and efficient by enabling them to more easily customize Windows XP based on their own accessibility needs and preferences.
(November 2001) Windows XP Most Accessible Version of Windows Operating System Ever Released
Windows XP clears a new bar in accessibility; for the first time in the history of Windows, multiple assistive technologies were available at launch.
(November 7, 2001) Camp for People with Disabilities Uses Microsoft Grant to Enhance Learning Experience for Campers, Staff and Parents
Camp Greentop, a Maryland summer camp for people with disabilities, uses a Microsoft Technology Enriched Communities (TEC) grant to improve its technology infrastructure and communicate daily with campers' families.
(August 6, 2001) Microsoft's Accessible Technology Group Strives to Knock Down Barriers with Technology
Two of Microsoft's accessibility advocates personify the passion of our commitment to supporting accessibility. Microsoft's commitment to making technology accessible predates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a federal law that went into effect in 1990.
(July 24, 2001) BusinessWeek Chats with Steve Ballmer About Accessible Technology
"Enabling accessible technology is a growth opportunity, it meets customer needs, and it's the right thing to do," Ballmer.
(June 13, 2001, BusinessWeek) Disabled Web Access Made Easier
Wired.com reports on a new federal law taking effect June 21 which promises to make major commercial hardware and software products, as well as federal government Web sites, more accessible to users with disabilities.
(May 30, 2001, Wired.com) Making IT Accessible
Computerworld writes about how the adaptation of IT systems for people with physical impairments is becoming a big issue. The technologies are available today. The key, practitioners say, is to design them into your information system infrastructure.
(May 28, 2001, Computerworld) New Disability Standards Create Long-Term Opportunities
Microsoft's team members make sure the Redmond, Washington, company's operating systems work with assistive technologies, such as screen readers for the blind, and build accessibility tools into those systems. They also help Microsoft staff understand accessibility requirements and work with assistive technology vendors to ensure the companies' products work together.
(April 20, 2001, Washington Technology) BusinessWeek Online: Way Cool Text Pager, Dude!
Like all kids, students with disabilities want to fit in. So smart companies are marketing assistive products with peer acceptance in mind.
(April 18, 2001, BusinessWeek) Office XP: New Accessibility Features Provide Improved Experience for all Users
For people with disabilities, Microsoft's new Office suite will boost efficiency and productivity at work and at home.
(March 21, 2001) 'Independent Living' Web Site Aids Mobility in Physical World
Microsoft provided more than $130,000 in grants and software to help a nonprofit coalition of public and private organizations create Living Independently in Los Angeles, a Web site dedicated to serving area residents with disabilities.
(March 19, 2001) "High Marks for Microsoft from the Disabled"
While some question its motives, Gates & Co. clearly understands the need for all people to have access to computer technology
(February 22, 2001, BusinessWeek)
2000 Press Stories
Microsoft and New Zealand Company Pulse Data To Make Thousands of EBook Titles Available to the BlindMicrosoft Reader software to be integrated into BrailleNote, Pulse Data's family of personal data assistants.
(November 20, 2000) Microsoft Furthers Commitment to Employment of People With Disabilities Through $250,000 in Grants
Coinciding with National Disability Employment Awareness Month, latest round of grants will bring technology and training to innovative projects focused on employment issues for individuals with disabilities.
(October 26, 2000) Digital Dividends Conference Focuses on Bridging the Digital Divide Worldwide
Participation in the Digital Dividends Conference represents just one of the many ways Microsoft has demonstrated its awareness of the need to provide technology access to people who have the least opportunity to obtain it themselves because they are disadvantaged by geographic location, economic status, or physical disabilities.
(October 18, 2000) New MSN Explorer Provides the Most Accessible Online Experience
Microsoft recognizes National Disability Awareness Month with accessibility features, simplicity and superior integration.
(October 9, 2000) An Open Letter on Accessibility from Technology Executives
Technology CEOs send letter to President Clinton declaring their strong support for efforts to promote the accessibility of information and communications products and services for people with disabilities.
(September 21, 2000) Technology Business Incubator Helps Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Start and Maintain Businesses
President Clinton cites Microsoft's work with Community Options, Inc., to provide technological and financial assistance to entrepreneurs disadvantaged by income status and disability.
(September 21, 2000) Leveling the Playing Field: People With Disabilities Take on All Comers With Computer Games
A golf tournament that combines real and virtual play demonstrates new opportunities for people with disabilities.
(August 18, 2000) Microsoft Technology and Donations Enhance Quality of Life for People with Disabilities
The company's latest Connected Learning Community cash and software contributions assist nonprofit organizations serving people with disabilities in local communities.
(July 26, 2000) Microsoft Recruits, Hires and Accommodates People with Disabilities
Employees with disabilities find Microsoft to be an employer that focuses on job-related strengths and accommodates special needs.
(July 6, 2000) Microsoft Helps Smithsonian Showcase History of Disability Rights Movement
Microsoft Windows 2000 is included in an exhibition about the disability rights movement to show the importance of computers and technology to people with disabilities.
(July 19, 2000) A World of Change: Microsoft Employees and Donations Transform Lives Worldwide
The company's international outreach efforts offer help and hope in communities from Malaysia to Ecuador that are underserved by technology or hard-hit by war or natural disasters.
(June 26, 2000) Greg Lowney, Microsoft's Accessibility Strategist, Discusses the Importance of Universal Design and Accessibility
Microsoft received a Ron Mace Designing for the 21st Century Award.
(June 16, 2000) Microsoft, Highway 1 and Accessible Systems Inc. Announce Collaboration To Bring Accessibility Training to Government Agencies
Today during his keynote address at FOSE 2000, Microsoft Corp. President and CEO Steve Ballmer announced a new alliance among Microsoft, Highway 1 and Accessible Systems Inc. to bring accessibility courses and training to government agencies beginning this spring.
(April 18, 2000) Steve Ballmer's FOSE Keynote Describes Technology's Critical Role In Redefining Government Services
Outlines Microsoft's Commitment to Help Government Information Technology Fulfill Its Mission to Better Deliver Services to Citizens
(April 18, 2000) Microsoft Technology Enhances Portable Device for the Blind and Visually Impaired
BrailleNote, a new portable computer device, enables blind and visually impaired workers to operate in a familiar, structured environment while producing results indistinguishable from those of their sighted colleagues.
(March 22, 2000) Gates Describes Microsoft's Efforts to Empower People With Visual Disabilities Through Technology
Describing a less visible "digital divide" that confronts people with disabilities, Microsoft CEO Bill Gates said that new and future technology Microsoft is developing will ensure blind and visually impaired people experience the full benefits of computer technology.
(March 10, 2000) Microsoft Receives WE Magazine's "Golden Ladder" Award
WE Magazine, a lifestyle publication for people with disabilities, this month honored Microsoft for its efforts hiring and accommodating people with disabilities, and its continued commitment to create accessible technologies.
(January 7, 2000) Microsoft Collaborates with barnesandnoble.com to Accelerate Availability of eBooks
barnesandnoble.com will use Microsoft Reader software to create an online eBook "Super Store."
(January 6, 2000) Microsoft Grants Connect People With a World of Resources
The Connected Learning Community program seeks to enhance the education and communication of individuals in disadvantaged communities by expanding access to information technology.
(January 5, 2000)
1999 Press Stories
National Multiple Sclerosis Society Names Microsoft "Corporation of the Year"A $2 million grant from Microsoft last summer has allowed the Society to focus other critical resources on its mission: research and programs for people with multiple sclerosis.
(November 11, 1999) Microsoft and NBDC Announce Able to Work Consortium
Microsoft has joined the National Business and Disabilities Council and 21 North American companies to form the Able to Work Consortium, a new initiative aimed at sharing tools and strategies for recruiting and hiring people with disabilities.
(October 25, 1999) Microsoft Grant Supports Computer Center for Hospitalized Children
For young patients at Franciscan Children's Hospital (FCH) in Boston, the world became a brighter place today with the grand opening of the "Microsoft Clubhouse," a new computer center designed to help alleviate isolation and improve the quality of life for children hospitalized with disabilities or serious illnesses.
(September 22, 1999) Microsoft Announces New Software for Reading on Screen
Breakthrough Microsoft Reader Will Be First Product to Include Innovative ClearType Font-Rendering Technology
(August 30, 1999) Microsoft Gives Teachers New Skills and Tools for Using Technology in the Classroom
Microsoft adds new Classroom Teacher Network to its growing offerings of training resources and solutions that have helped more than 1 million educators make technology an integral part of classroom learning.
(August 24, 1999) Microsoft Supports Online Programs to Help Children With Illnesses and Disabilities Overcome Isolation, Stay Connected to Peers and Mentors
(August 9, 1999) Technology Pioneered By and For People With Disabilities Benefits Everyone
Motivated by a powerful desire to overcome barriers to employment and full participation in other aspects of mainstream life, people with disabilities have always been among those who are willing to experiment with new technologies.
(July 26, 1999) E-Books: From Reading on Paper to Reading on the Computer Screen
Microsoft Researcher Bill Hill Spearheads the Transition from Reading on Paper to Reading on the Computer Screen.
(July 7, 1999) Microsoft's Highly Productive Research Organization
"Microsoft has built the strongest computing research organization in the world in a period of eight years."
-Ed Lazowska, chairman, UW Dept. of Computer Science and Engineering
(June 12, 1999) Microsoft Announces Winners of Connected Learning Community Grants
Grants Awarded to 18 Organizations Nationwide to Be Used To Expand Access to Information Technology in Disadvantaged Communities
(May 26, 1999) Microsoft's Call for an Open eBook Standard Sees Major Milestone As Draft Specification Is Submitted for Final Approval
Microsoft Rallies Wide Range of Industries to Develop Standard That Will Help Launch the eBook Industry
(May 25, 1999) New Training Initiative in Austin for Individuals with Disabilities
Community colleges and universities in Austin, Texas expand and adapt computer training for people with disabilities. The program, Plan for Achieving Self Support with Information Technology Opportunities Nationwide, or PASS*IT*ON, is a three-year pilot program sponsored by Microsoft.
(April 23, 1999) Microsoft Teams With Tools for Life to Provide PCs To People With Disabilities
Innovative Program Gives New Life to Old Computers.
(April 22, 1999) Microsoft Announces Recipients of First-Annual PC Accessibility Research and Development Grants
Microsoft grants awarded at the CSUN conference focus on improving PC and Internet technologies and tools for people with disabilities.
(March 17, 1999) Microsoft Employees Honored.
Director of Accessibility Greg Lowney and Program Manager David Bolnick received Hammer Awards at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. The award, which recognizes people who are making government work better and cost less, was for their work on guidelines for accessibility software design.
(January 28, 1999) Hiring practices recognized.
For the first time, WE Magazine included Microsoft as one of 10 companies that go far beyond the ADA to recruit and accommodate employees with disabilities.
(January 13, 1999)
1998 Press Stories
The
United Nations International Day of Disabled PersonsThe Accessibility and Disability teams made a presentation at the UN on what is being done to bridge the digital divide and help build a society for all ages.
(December 3, 1998) Microsoft to Award $250,000 in Grants to Non-Profit and Educational Institutions Researching PC Accessibility
Microsoft Corporation has announced the creation of a new international grant program to support research and product development initiatives that make PC technology more accessible and effective for people with disabilities.
(December 3, 1998) Microsoft Employees Help Train Service Dogs for People with Physical Disabilities
(November 9, 1998) Greg Lowney: Microsoft's Director of Accessibility is Motivated by the Millions of People His Work Will Benefit
(October 22, 1998) New Accessibility Features Will Make Office 2000 and Cordless Phone System Easier for People with Disabilities to Use
(October 22, 1998) Changing Lives: Microsoft Accessibility Program Managers Tell Congressional Subcommittee About Making Technology Work for People With Disabilities
(August 4, 1998) Windows 98 Helps People with Disabilities Expand Options for Work, Entertainment and Communication
For most PC users, Microsoft's Windows 98 is a valuable improvement over Windows 95-faster, more reliable, easier to use, and enhanced with many new entertainment and hardware capabilities-but for people with disabilities, Windows 98 is a godsend.
(June 29, 1998) Microsoft Lauded for Hiring and Accommodating Employees with Disabilities
(January 11, 1998)
1997 Press Stories
Microsoft
Announces Closed Captioning Technology for MultimediaMicrosoft announces SAMI, a new technology that will enable anyone who creates multimedia software titles and Web pages to provide closed captioning for users who are deaf or hard-of-hearing.
(June 16, 1997) Microsoft Awarded Top Honor by Self Help for Hard of Hearing People, Inc. (SHHH) for progress in making multimedia software accessible to people with hearing loss.
(June 16, 1997)
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