Amóvil was able to review the Galaxy Note II, Samsung’s so called “phablet” thanks to a loan by the Vodafone Spain Foundation. This is device is very unique and can give users the opportunity for a different experience. Because of its dimensions, it also includes accessibility features that accommodate the needs of persons with partial vision, hearing disabilities, poor comprehension skills and dexterity disabilities.

The Smartphone measures 151.1 x 80.5 x 9.4 mm, weights 183 grams, and sports an outer design that is no different than the rest of the Galaxy series. It also features a super 5.5-inch AMOLED capacitive display with a 720x1280 resolution that shows content with great sharpness and contrasts.

Running on Android 4.1, the Note II comes equipped with Bluetooth, NFC and WiFi capabilities. In addition, it includes with an 8 megapixels rear-facing camera with autofocus and LED Flash, and a 1.9 megapixels front-facing VGA camera that makes videos. An interesting feature incorporated in this device is the S Pen, a stylus that enables users to draw and handwrite on the display with a lot of precision. This tool comes conveniently embedded into the device’s casing so it does not protrude nor gets stuck on the clothes.

Persons with low vision can use the S Pen to select icons and other small elements on the screen. However, users with limited dexterity should try the S Pen before buying the Note II. Although it is lightweight, it may not be thick enough to ensure a good grip.

Accessibility review

Visual disability

Blind users may have a limited experience with this device even though it includes an improved version of TalkBack. While the screen reader does talk these users through most of the content, it does not read some of the keys on the virtual keyboard.

However, this smartphone is suitable for partially blind users. Although it does not include zooming features, its large screen, which includes deep blacks and bright whites, displays content optimally. Also, both the screen brightness and font size can be customized. In addition, the phone offers color inversion features to accommodate the needs of the color blind.

Hearing disability

The Samsung Galaxy Note is video call-enabled and has a Hearing Aid compatibility rating of M3/T3. Users can also insert a loopset, and connect to the device through Bluetooth technology.

Dexterity disability

Some users with limited movement in their hands or arms may be able to user the Note II with comfort. While it is larger and heavier than other devices, it is narrow enough to hold it with one hand. In addition, its weight meets accessibility requirements for this profile.

Furthermore, this Smartphone a built-in speech recognition feature to browse the web, and it is also compatible with apps such as Sherpa, a personal assistant that allows users perform several actions, including making phone calls and sending text messages, with voice commands.

Limited comprehension skills

The Samsung Galaxy Note II is suitable for people with limited comprehension skills. It includes standardized icons and symbols, and an option to customize the phone book and to arrange the home screen elements as needed.

For a more detailed description of the accessibility features included in this device, please see the full accessibility report available in Amóvil.