Microsoft's Edge Browser now Automatically Narrates Photos
Colin Smith — March 21, 2022 — Social Good
Microsoft has announced an upcoming update for its 'Edge' browser that includes a feature it calls 'Automatic Image Description.' This is an accessibility-focused feature for individuals with impaired vision. These individuals use text-to-speech screen readers to navigate the internet. However, one shortcoming of these screen readers is they cannot describe images. If there is no embedded description of the image on the webpage, the screen readers simply say "unlabeled graphic."
This new update will allow Microsoft Edge to automatically generate a description for an unlabeled graphic image. The web browser will use machine learning algorithms to determine the contents of an unlabeled image. Microsoft has stated that this cannot be done perfectly, as different images will be understood to varying degrees by the algorithm, but the company has also stated that its descriptions will be better than having no context at all.
Image Credit: Microsoft
This new update will allow Microsoft Edge to automatically generate a description for an unlabeled graphic image. The web browser will use machine learning algorithms to determine the contents of an unlabeled image. Microsoft has stated that this cannot be done perfectly, as different images will be understood to varying degrees by the algorithm, but the company has also stated that its descriptions will be better than having no context at all.
Image Credit: Microsoft
Trend Themes
1. Automatic Image Description - Technology that generates automatic image descriptions for the visually impaired.
2. Machine Learning Algorithms for Accessibility - Using machine learning to improve accessibility for people with impaired vision.
3. Accessibility-focused Web Updates - Web updates that prioritize accessibility for people with disabilities.
Industry Implications
1. Technology - Implementing accessibility features in technology can improve usability for individuals with disabilities.
2. Web Development - Web developers can prioritize accessibility in their coding and design to improve the browsing experience for individuals with disabilities.
3. Assistive Technology - Developing assistive technology that utilizes machine learning to improve accessibility for people with disabilities.
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