Apple iPad Pro with VoiceOver: Accessibility Features for the Visually Impaired Reviewed
Published November 30, 2023 at 8:34 pm
Explore the transformative accessibility features of the Apple iPad Pro with VoiceOver, tailored for users with visual impairments. This article delves into the device’s capabilities, user experiences, and how it empowers the visually impaired with greater independence and functionality.

Introduction
The Apple iPad Pro has revolutionized the way individuals interact with technology, and its VoiceOver feature exemplifies this transformation, especially for users with visual impairments. VoiceOver is an advanced screen reader that provides auditory descriptions of each on-screen element, aiding those who have difficulty seeing to navigate the digital landscape with greater ease.
VoiceOver: Navigating the Digital World
VoiceOver uses a series of gestures that allow users to control the iPad without needing to see the screen. For example, swiping with three fingers scrolls through pages, while a single tap with one finger selects an item. The feature supports a vast array of languages and has braille display compatibility, enriching the experience for braille readers.
Accurate Descriptions and Customizable Settings
The attention to detail in VoiceOver’s audible descriptions is commendable. The user is not only informed of which app is selected but also receives information about the size and color of text, which is invaluable for users with partial sight. Furthermore, VoiceOver’s settings are highly customizable, allowing users to adjust the speaking rate and pitch to suit individual preferences.
Typing with VoiceOver
Typing is another area where VoiceOver excels. The iPad Pro’s on-screen keyboard works seamlessly with VoiceOver, providing spoken feedback with each character entered and allowing for swift text editing. The screen reader also supports a range of Bluetooth keyboards, which can further enhance typing for users.
Accessibility Shortcuts
For those who frequently use accessibility features, the iPad Pro allows for the setup of Accessibility Shortcuts. With a triple-click of the home or side button, users can quickly enable VoiceOver, assisting in the swift transition between standard and accessible modes.
Empowering Users Through Apps
The utility of the iPad Pro for visually impaired individuals extends beyond VoiceOver. There are numerous apps designed to work well with the system’s accessibility features, such as KNFB Reader for reading printed text and Seeing AI by Microsoft, a powerful tool to narrate the world around the user.
Comparing User Experiences
When exploring user reviews, one commonly praised aspect is the seamless integration of accessibility into the iPad Pro’s design, allowing visually impaired users to enjoy the device’s functionality without feeling segregated. However, some users note a learning curve when initially adapting to VoiceOver’s gestures and commands.
Enhanced Practicality with Apple Pencil
The Apple Pencil, when used with the iPad Pro, can further enhance the user experience. Its precision enables users with visual impairments to navigate and select screen elements with greater accuracy. The synergy between Apple Pencil and VoiceOver opens doors to new possibilities in accessibility.
Conclusion
The Apple iPad Pro with VoiceOver represents a significant step forward in inclusive technology. By considering the unique needs of the visually impaired, Apple has crafted a device that empowers and enables, ensuring that technology is accessible to all. The combination of advanced features like VoiceOver, coupled with an extensive app ecosystem, makes the iPad Pro an invaluable tool for those who rely on assistive technology in their daily lives.

Avery Ingram
Contributor