DrupalCon Seattle 2019: Voice Assistants - change how users with disabilities Get Things Done
Channel: Drupal Association
Date: 2019-04-12

Imagine this: You wake up in the morning, stumble over to the kitchen and call out, “Alexa, turn on the music.” Good, music noise is on. Time to make some coffee. You fumble around with your coffee maker and suddenly remember that you still don’t have a gift for your grandmother's upcoming birthday. Sigh. “Alexa, order a cupcakes gift box from Prime Now.” You listen to the product options, choose one, and confirm your order. Done. Hm, better remind your mom about today’s lunch date. “Alexa, call ‘Mom’ at home.”

Technology sure is helpful. Now imagine this scene all over again, except this time you’re visually impaired.

For many people, virtual assistants are just another great way for technology to make us feel more like Tony Stark. But for many individuals with disabilities, it’s a complete game-changer. From placing phone calls and texting their caretakers to unlocking front doors and ordering groceries; virtual assistants are making important steps towards accessible UIs for the masses.

We’ve started to explore, how we can offer the Voice Assistants as another dimension for our client’s customers. Now, I want to reveal how that may work. For all levels of users and dreamers.