With the release of Windows 8 RT and Professional versions in late October 2012, we are beginning to see a merging of the power of ultrabooks with tablet devices, without compromising the accessibility features of tablets that we have come to admire, such as the iPad.
For example, the top of the range of the new Sony VAIO Duo 11 and Dell tablet computers support an i7 processor, up to 8 GB RAM and either 128 or 256 GB Solid State drives (SSD) as well as usb ports and HDMI output.
Having used Windows 8 professional since its launch, I am now finding the interface more intuitive and enjoy the visual nature of the dynamic tiles. The nice thing about windows 8 Professional is that Windows 7 software still runs happily on this new platform. One very compelling reason for opting for Windows 8 Professional rather tan the more limited RT version, which is currently the only option for users purchasing the new Microsoft Surface computer launched at the same time as Windows 8. Media Access Australia has a nice review of the Surface computer as well as Windows 8: http://www.mediaaccess.org.au/latest_news/general/accessibility-review-microsoft-surface-tablet
The accessibility features of Windows 8 Professional can be accessed by either using the hot key combination (Windows key and pressing the ‘U’ key together) or via control panel > ease of access center.
As shown in the screen shot above, the ease of access center options include:
- Quick access to common tools including: Magnifier; On Screen Keyboard; Narrator; High Contrast display
- An option to use the computer without a display (optimised for people who are blind)
- An option to optimise the visual display for those with vision impairments
- The option to set up for alternative inputting devices
- Adjustments to customise the mouse or other pointing devices to make them easier to use
- Settings adjustments for the keyboard
- The option to specify visual alternatives for sounds for hearing impaired users
- Adjustments to decrease the complexity and distractions on screen – optimised for ease of reading and typing
- The ability to customise touch settings for tablet computers
As the Media Access site notes, there are several enhancements to the accessibility features of this version of Windows including:
- Improvements to narrator providing extra language support, new voices, better application support and touch-enabled support
- Improved magnifier with support for high contrast colour schemes and a new interface for touchscreen devices
- An option to enable users to sign-in and specifywhich built-in accessibility features launch as the computer starts up
- A range of new apps designed with accessibility in mind available via the Windows Store feature in Windows 8
As more hybrid tablet computers appear on the market we can anticipate improved affordability, which will make these tablets very attractive multipurpose devices that can perform the most demanding work related tasks while also supporting an impressive range of universal design features.
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