The rise of assistive devices: How tech is helping people with disabilities

With over a billion people (about 15 per cent of the world’s population) having some form of disability, according to WHO, it becomes important for tech companies to create their products with accessibility features in mind. As awareness towards assistive technology (AT) is growing, major tech companies and young startups are either creating special hardware products or incorporating software features designed to address the needs of individuals with disabilities. Here are some of the best examples of assistive tech designed to address the day to day barriers faced by people with disabilities.The Xbox Adaptive Controller has been designed for gamers with disabilities. The controller, which looks like an old-school white box, features two large black buttons that can be reprogrammed, and a smaller steering button. The rectangular-shaped controller features dozens of 3.5mm jacks round the back that connect to a number of external switches, buttons, mounts, and joysticks. The Xbox Adaptive Controller is wireless in nature with a built-in rechargeable battery but it can also work with a wired USB connection. The controller can be used with Xbox One consoles and Windows 10 PCs and is priced at Rs 8539. Time Magazine named Microsoft’s Xbox Adaptive Controller as one of the best inventions of 2018.Amazon Echo smart speakerMany see the Echo as a mere smart speaker but the popular device can impact the lives of people with disabilities in a positive way. In fact, the Alexa-powered Echo is the finest example of how assistive technology can be so useful for people with special needs. For a person with low vision, the Echo can read daily stories, perform basic calculations, set alarms and reminders, and even perform simple searches, without needing to move your hands or changing your position. In a way, the Echo becomes a communication aid that helps make the lives of people with disabilities easier.