Zippers Phone is a mid-range powerful Smartphone recently launched by Vexia, a Spain-based company leader in SatNav innovation. This is a dual SIM mobile phone equipped with several cutting edge features, including a 1.2 GHz dual-core Intel Atom 2420 processor. However, it may be inaccessible for some users with disabilities.

The handset measures 64.8 x 125.9 x 9.9 mm and weighs 135 grams. It includes a 4.3-inch 960x540 display with ISP LCD technology and 16m colors. Running on Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich), it is also WiFi and Bluetooth enabled. In addition, it comes with a 5MP rear-side camera with autofocus and LED flash, and a 0.3 MP front side camera that allows shooting videos.

An interesting feature included in this device is the custom made UI called Zippers that offers users a simple way to access the main functions and applications available. This interface is divided into four zippers that act like launchers allowing users to open applications belonging to any of these four groups: Multimedia, My Applications, Internet and Telephone.

The car Mode is another interesting feature offered by this device. This is a built-in application that is accessed through the “Multimedia” zipper, and has been designed to use the phone while driving. It allows users to make phone calls or voice recordings without having to touch the device. It also provides access to EcoNav, a state of the art GPS navigation software with voice output included.

Accessibility review

Vision

Amóvil cannot recommend the Zippers Phone to blind persons. The version of TalkBack built into this device does not work well, and provides limited access to the visual content available in the display. TalkBack updates currently available are not compatible with Android 4.0.

Persons with low vision or partial blindness may also face several barriers using this device. While the software allows changing the font style and sizes, this feature is insufficient as it does not work in all of the menus and interfaces. In addition, there is no screen magnifier available, and the software is not compatible with any third party app that offers this service.

Another barrier hindering access to these users is that several icons displayed in the Zippers UI lack sufficient contrast. In addition, there are no color contrast scheme features available or an option to invert the colors of the background and the foreground.

Hearing

Vexia does not offer information on the device’s hearing aid compatibility rating. However, Amóvil has been able to attest that it is compatible with some hearing prosthetics in the microphone mode and through Bluetooth technology in hearing aids or cochlear implants that support it.

Hearing disabled users will also be able to send text messages or use any chat apps available for Android devices. Deaf users who prefer communicating in sign language will be able to make video calls using applications such as Skype or Google Hangouts.

Dexterity

The Zippers Phone may be suitable for some users with dexterity disabilities. It includes a modest voice recognition feature that can be enhanced with Sherpa a personal assistant application for Android that allows users to use their voice to send emails, open apps, etc. Furthermore, some features provided in the Car Mode previously mentioned can be highly useful to these users.

Comprehension

While Zippers IU has been designed to simplify access to the main features available in device, Amovil cannot recommend it to users with limited comprehension skills. On one hand, some icons in the display are not standardized. On the other, information about the handset provided by the manufacturer is not available in an accessible format.

For more details about the accessibility features available in this device, please consult Amóvil's full accessibility report.