Microsoft doesn't plan on leaving anyone in the dark. The company teamed with Daisy digital talking books to develop some new technologies for the blind to make it possibly for even the visually impaired to take advantage of computers. The new program will translate Word documents into digital audio.
They're collaborate to create a free plug-in that translates Word documents based on Open XML into Daisy XML. The downloadable plug-in is expected to be available in early 2008.
Microsoft is only one of many companies recognizing the market potential of the blind demographic. Here are a few more blind innovations we've seen on Trend Hunter:
Microsoft Targets Blind
Word Docs Translated to Audio With Daisy
Trend Themes
1. Accessibility for the Blind - Expanding accessibility options for the blind through innovative technologies.
2. Document Translation - Developing tools to translate written content into audio format for the visually impaired.
3. Collaborative Partnerships - Creating alliances between companies to advance accessibility solutions for the blind.
Industry Implications
1. Technology - Exploring opportunities for tech companies to create innovative accessibility solutions for the blind.
2. Publishing - Expanding the market for digital audio books and content to cater to visually impaired individuals.
3. Software Development - Driving the development of software tools and plug-ins that enable document translation for the blind.