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Cell phones seem to get smaller, more complicated and less workable every year for people with vision loss. You may have even given up on using one ever again. Well, it may be time to take another look. Here are some tips and information about finding more accessible cell phones and software that give you access to most of the latest cell phone functions.
At the Store: The Features You Need
If you're looking for a cell phone and you have vision loss, the first place to start is in your local cell phone retailer. Be upfront with the sales people—let them know that you have vision loss, and when they show you cell phone models, look for the following features that will make it easy for you to use the phone:
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Try out cell phones models before buying to ensure your new phone will work for you.
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A Large, Adjustable Screen
Finding a phone with a large screen is very important. When inspecting a cell phone model, ask yourself, "Is the screen on this phone big enough for me?" In addition, does the phone have screen adjustability? Will you be able to increase the size of fonts, alter the screen's contrast and brightness, and change hard-to-see icons into words? Have the salesperson change the settings on the phone to see if the adjusted settings will work for you.
Audible Voice Output and Input
Ask to see phones with speech output capabilities that will speak such information as caller ID and announce numbers as you press the dialing keys. This, in addition to a large screen, will make it easier for you to see who you're calling, and who's calling you.
Tactile Keys
Many newer phone models have flat number pads that make dialing difficult, in addition to lots of extra buttons whose functions aren't always intuitive. Ask to see phones that have larger labeled dialing keys and tactile buttons that can be distinguished by touch. To make things even more hassle-free, you can get a phone, such as the Jitterbug One Touch model, that has only three keys. In addition, the numbers on some phones are lit up, making them easier to see.
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The Jitterbug phone comes in two models, one with only three keys and the other with large keys.
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Accessible Instruction Manuals and Bills
Ask the salesperson about receiving your cell phone bill and other correspondence from the cellular service provider in alternative formats that may work better for you, such as large print or braille. You might also inquire about receiving an electronic bill that you can pay online through electronic bill pay.
Beyond the Basics
The features just listed are fine if all you need is a simple, portable phone. What if you need to access other functions on your phone, such as the calendar or text messaging? For those with significant vision loss, a good option is third-party software. Similar to the way a PC has a Windows or Linux operating system, Symbian phones were developed with the Symbian operating system, giving them the ability to install third-party software to provide accessibility. These systems would be the choice for those who want access to more functionality than the off-the-shelf models provide. The third-party software options provide speech output, variable screen-magnification and enhancement, or both types of access to just about the entire phone interface and allow access to many more phone features, such as the phone book, e-mail, and text messaging.
Take Action for More Accessible Phones
To focus attention on the need for cell phone accessibility, AFB recently launched the Cell Phone Accessibility Project. Here you will find information about Section 255; what you should expect from a usable cell phone; information about available cell phones with features that make them more usable by people with vision loss; information about strategies that consumers can use to advocate for phones that meet their needs.
For More Information:
- American Foundation for the Blind. AccessWorld®. AccessWorld, AFB's free online technology magazine, regularly reviews cell phones and other technology, and includes an extensive review of the Jitterbug phone.
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