The Nexus 7, Google’s first own-branded tablet, is a cutting-edge device powered by Android 4.2 that comes with several built-in features that make it accessible for blind and partially blind users. The tablet is lightweight (340 grams) with dimensions of 198,5x120x10 millimeters. It features an easy-to use outer design with a rubberized back texture that feels soft on the palm, and a multifunction power button that also blocks and unblocks the display.

This quad-core Tegra 3-endowed tablet that is sold at a reasonable price, includes a 7-inch high definition IPS multitouch screen that has 1280x800 pixel resolution with 216 ppi density overall. Among the connectivity options available are WiFi, WiFi direct, Bluetooth, and NFC. Furthermore, the Nexus 7 offers a multilanguage keyboard with auto-correction features, word suggestions and next word prediction, which comes in handy for users with some physical or cognitive disabilities. It includes a gesture typing option that lets users input words by gliding one finger over the letters.

However, unlike other popular tablets, the Nexus 7 includes no rear camera. It comes with a 1.2 megapixels front facing camera for videocalling, so hearing impaired users who prefer communicating with sign language can make videocalls through applications such as Skype or Google Hangouts.

Accessibility features and barriers

Among the accessibility features available in the Nexus 7 are an improved version of Talkback, the built-in Android screen reader, which allows gesture navigation. Blind users can navigate around the screen, activate items, and even jump to various screens using gestures such as one finger drag, one or two fingers swipe, or double taps. In addition, the device includes a built-in screen magnifier that is activated with a simple one finger triple tapping gesture, and an option to increase the font size for the entire device which can be helpful for users with partial vision.

Unfortunately, this device offers a limited user experience to the hearing impaired. Despite allowing videocalls, it does not include LED or vibration notifications for incoming emails or IM messages. These users have no way of knowing there is a pending message until they unblock the device.

Furthermore, although the Nexus 7 is lightweight and easy to grip, it offers limited accessibility features for users with dexterity disabilities. Its built-in voice recognition feature can only be used for web browsing, although users can opt to download external voice recognition software compatible with Android such as Sherpa. Also, ejecting the SIM card tray requires the insertion of a special tool into a small hole, which can be hard for individuals with tremors or shaking in the upper limbs. This can also be difficult for people with visual disabilities.

For more information about the Nexus 7, please see the full accessibility report available at Amovil.

Have you used this device? We would like to know about your experience!