What’s New in iOS 26 Accessibility

In this podcast, Thomas Domville demos the new Copied Speech rotor option in iOS 26 for VoiceOver. Think of it as a lightweight clipboard history: it remembers what you copied with VoiceOver and lets you paste from the last ten copied items directly via the rotor, making multi-item copy/paste (like app titles and release notes) fast and accessible. What’s covered / why it mattersWhat Copied Speech is: a new rotor item in iOS 26 that surfaces your recent VoiceOver copies (described as a “clipboard history”). How much it stores: the last 10 clipboard items. The workflow boost: copy multiple elements (e.g., an App Store title and its version notes) and paste them into a text field without bouncing back and forth. Gesture requirement (important): items only appear in Copied Speech if you copy using VoiceOver’s three-finger quadruple-tap; standard Edit > Copy or Select All → Copy won’t show up. Real-world demo context: App Store → Mail compose; selecting “Copied speech” in the rotor, navigating items, and inserting them. Step-by-step: Using Copied Speech with VoiceOverCopy with VoiceOver: On any selectable text, perform a three-finger quadruple tap. You’ll hear confirmation that it was copied. (This is required for Copied Speech.) Open a text field: For example, compose an email in Mail (or use Messages/Notes). Place the insertion point where you want to paste. Turn the rotor to “Copied speech”: Rotate counterclockwise through rotor items until you hear “Copied speech.”Choose the item: Swipe up/down to move through your recent copied entries (up to ten). Paste it: One-finger double-tap to insert the selected item at the cursor. Repeat as needed: Switch items and insert again to build your note or message from multiple copies. Tips & caveatsOnly VoiceOver copies appear: Copies made via text selection + Edit > Copy won’t show up in Copied Speech (even though they’re on the system clipboard). Use the three-finger quadruple-tap to capture items for the rotor. Great for research/notes: Thomas’s example pulls an app title and its version notes from the App Store into Mail in seconds. TranscriptDisclaimer: This transcript was generated by AI Note Taker – VoicePen, an AI-powered transcription app. It is not edited or formatted, and it may not accurately capture the speakers’ names, voices, or content.Thomas: Hello and welcome. My name is Thomas Domville, also known as AnonyMouse. There is a new feature in iOS 26 that I'm just very excited that they introduced for us to use. There is a new rotor option called Copy Speech. Essentially, in a nutshell, I kind of refer to that as a clipboard history. Yeah, so in the past, in the older version of iOS, one annoying thing that I found that is just completely frustrating is that I am only able…

In this episode, Thomas Domville (AnonyMouse) dives deep into the exciting new accessibility features in iOS 26. From improved VoiceOver experiences to powerful tools for customization and ease of use, this update offers meaningful improvements for blind, low-vision, and accessibility-focused users.Whether you’re a long-time VoiceOver user or just curious about Apple’s accessibility innovations, this episode guides you through the highlights with real examples, demonstrations, and practical insights.Key HighlightsNew VoiceOver Tone for Touch Containers A subtle sound now plays when entering a new container, making navigation clearer without extra speech.Copied Speech Rotor Option A three-finger quadruple-tap saves text to a clipboard history, accessible via the rotor for quick pasting.Accessibility Nutrition Labels on the App Store Developers can now declare supported accessibility features (VoiceOver, Captions, Larger Text, etc.) directly on app pages.Customizable Magic Tap Gesture Prevent media from accidentally playing when ending a call by disabling Magic Tap’s default play/pause function.Custom Labels Management See and manage all custom labels you’ve created in one place under VoiceOver > Verbosity.Always Use Siri Sounds Replace VoiceOver’s audio tones with Siri’s system sounds for a more familiar experience.Reset VoiceOver Settings Easily A new reset option restores VoiceOver to factory defaults without affecting other system settings.Share Accessibility Settings Between Devices Transfer or sync your preferences seamlessly across iPhone, iPad, or other Apple devices.Reduce Transparency for a Cleaner Look Turn off translucent “liquid glass” UI elements for a more legible and distraction-free display.Expanded Background Sounds Library New sounds include airplane cabin noise, rain, night ambiance, and crackling fire for relaxation or focus.Faster Personal Voice Creation Create a natural-sounding personal voice with just 10 phrases instead of 100—done in minutes.Name Recognition Improve clarity with personalized pronunciation for names in contacts, photos, and text.Accessible Reader A new clutter-free reading view with customizable layout, font, and background options.New Live Listen Features Pair Live Listen with captions and rewind missed audio for more flexible conversations.Head Tracking Use subtle head movements to control audio, highlight menus, or enhance spatial listening.This episode is perfect for anyone eager to explore iOS 26’s most impactful accessibility features. Tune in to discover how Apple continues to lead in inclusive design.TranscriptDisclaimer: This transcript was generated by AI Note Taker – VoicePen, an AI-powered transcription app. It is not edited or formatted, and it may not accurately capture the speakers…

In this edition of the AppleVis Extra, Michael Hansen, Tyler Stephen, Geo Bahena, and Levi Gobin get together to discuss Apple's 'Awe Dropping' September 2025 event.TranscriptDisclaimer: This transcript was generated by AI Note Taker – VoicePen, an AI-powered transcription app. It is not edited or formatted, and it may not accurately capture the speakers’ names, voices, or content.Michael, 00:01 Welcome to Apple This Extra number 111. My name is Michael Hansen. It's great to be here with you today, and I am joined by three other members of the Apple This team. We're going to be talking all about Apple's awedropping media event, September 2025. We got new AirPods, new Apple Watches, new iPhones, including an all-new iPhone Air. Of course, we're going to also maybe touch a little bit on iOS 26 and the releases for the other platforms as well.Michael, 00:31 But before we get to that, let's start with the introductions. First off, we have Tyler Stephen. Tyler, how are you?Tyler, 00:37 I'm good.Michael, 00:39 Excellent, excellent. And guys, for those who don't know, Tyler is the main man behind a lot of AppleBiz's blog posts for the software releases. And he also does a lot of work with our community bug program. Huge shout out, folks, as well, if you've submitted questions. Bug reports to the community bug program. Thank you so much. We really appreciate you. Our software content is going to be better because you participated. Moving right along, we have Geo Bahena. Hello, Gio. How are you?Geo, 01:10 Hi, how are you? Thanks for the opportunity for being here today. It's good to be here.Michael, 01:18 You are so welcome. And I believe, is this your first Apple Viz Extra or were you able to do the last one?Geo, 01:24 This was my first. So I'm really excited. I'm really excited.Michael, 01:28 We are certainly glad to have you here and welcoming back. Certainly last but not least, we have Levi Gobin. Hello, Levi. How are you? I'm doing pretty good today. How about you? Excellent. I am doing well. The weather is still nice here in Chicago, although it's probably not as nice as some other areas, but the weather is still good.Levi, 01:52 Well, it's been pretty rainy today, so...Michael, 01:55 And where are you at again?Levi, 01:57 I'm in Daytona Beach, Florida, but it's been pretty rainy.Michael, 02:01 Levi, it rains every day. Isn't that like every day in Florida? It's like it rains every day in Florida.Levi, 02:08 You could literally walk outside at like 1 p.m., realize it's raining, and then go inside and come out at like 1.30 and it's sunny again.Michael, 02:16 Apple held a media event on September 9th of 2025. The tagline was awe-dropping. And at this event, Apple released or announced, rather, some new AirPods, new Apple Watches, new phones. First up on the list were the new AirPods Pro 3. It's got best world-class noise cancellation. It removes up to two times the noise.Michael, 02:44 of the previous version, which I guess would be AirPods Pro 2, up to four times as much noise as the original AirPods Pro. It's got a new multi-port acoustic architecture that will precisely control the airflow that carries sound…

In this episode, Tyler walks through how multi-user accounts work on macOS—why you might use them, how to add a new user, ways to switch quickly (including Touch ID), and how to safely delete an account while preserving data for troubleshooting. He also covers guest access, account types (Administrator, Standard, and Sharing Only), and a few accessibility tips with VoiceOver.Key PointsWhy multi-user: Separate files, settings, and Apple Account sync per person; great for shared Macs or isolating issues by testing in a fresh account.Account types: Administrator can change system settings and install software.Standard has its own files/settings but cannot administer the Mac.Sharing Only can access shared services remotely but cannot log in at the Mac.Guest user: If FileVault is on, Guest can only use Safari; if off, Guest can use apps but all data is wiped on logout.Fast User Switching: Add the menu-bar item via Control Center settings (listed as “Menu Bar” in macOS Tahoe per the recording timeframe), then switch from the status menu.Touch ID switching: Register different fingers per account to jump between users instantly—even from the lock screen.Deleting an account: Three options—(1) save home folder as a disk image under Deleted Users, (2) don’t change the home folder, or (3) delete the home folder.Troubleshooting tip: You can preserve your home folder, delete the account, then recreate it with the same account name to merge and reset settings—handy if issues are account-specific.Shared folder caveat: The /Users/Shared folder defaults to read/write for creator and read-only for others; permissions can be finicky, and other sharing methods may be easier.Step-by-Step GuideCreate a New User Open System Settings > Users & Groups, and click Add User…Pick an Account Type (Administrator, Standard, or Sharing Only). Standard is the default.Enter Full Name; Account Name (home folder name) will auto-fill. Set a Password and optional Hint, then click Create User.First Login & Touch ID Log out of your account, select the new user, and sign in.In Setup Assistant, the user can enroll Touch ID with their finger.Enable Fast User Switching (Menu Bar) Go to System Settings > Control Center (labeled “Menu Bar” in future macOS versions relative to the time of recording).Find Fast User Switching and set it to Show (e.g., show Account Name). Then use the status menus to switch users.Switch Between Users Instantly From the menu bar via Fast User Switching, or with Touch ID, a user can press the sensor with the finger registered to their account (works at the lock screen once accounts have been logged into).Share Files Between Accounts (Optional) Use /Users/Shared; creator has read/write, others read-only by default. Adjust permissions via Get Info if needed—but expect some Unix permission quirks.Delete a User Safely In Users & Groups, click the "Show detail" button for an account, click Delete User, and choose what to do with the Home folder.TranscriptDisclaimer: This transcript was generated by…

Victor demos the Tonewood Amp, a small magnetic unit that attaches to the back of an acoustic-electric guitar and uses the guitar’s own soundbox to project effects like reverb, delay, chorus/phaser, and tremolo—no external amp or headphones required.He also explores the Tonewood Amp Remote app, which is now fully accessible with VoiceOver thanks to his direct collaboration with the developers. The app lets you chain up to four effects, adjust routing (series or parallel), fine-tune EQ and compression, save presets, and control feedback with the “Feedback Assassin.”Key HighlightsMagnetic X-bracket mount allows quick, damage-free attachment.Requires an acoustic-electric guitar for the pickup signal.Accessible app on iOS and Android for screen reader users.Up to four effects in chain; choose series or parallel routing.Guitar profiles for different instruments; saves EQ, dynamics, and feedback settings.DI mode for connecting to amps or recording interfaces.Built-in presets and fully customizable effect chains.Gear & App MentionedTonewood Amp hardwareX-Bracket (magnetic mount)Acoustic-electric guitarTonewood Amp Remote – iOS App StoreAccessibility NotesVoiceOver-friendly controls for effects, routing, and settings.All effect modules have accessible faders and toggles.Descriptive help sections explain series vs. parallel routing.TranscriptDisclaimer: This transcript was generated by AI Note Taker – VoicePen, an AI-powered transcription app. It is not edited or formatted, and it may not accurately capture the speakers’ names, voices, or content.Victor: This is Victor and today I'm going to show you a very cool product which just has become accessible. But let me maybe start from the basics. What I'm talking about is the Tonewood amp. That's a little amplifier that clips to the back of your guitar and then it uses a built-in speaker to produce some effects through your guitar's sound box. So I'm going to explain this in some more detail how this works but this is the basic idea. So where do we start? We start with the fact that this amplifier is in fact a rectangular device. If you can imagine you have a guitar relatively middle size, it definitely will occupy a very tiny space on the back of your guitar. The way this works is that with the device, when it ships, you get something called an X-bracket and this X-bracket has some adhesive tape that you use to attach the bracket itself to the guitar from the inside. Now I just wanted to let you know that this does not in any way damage the wood of your guitar. They usually advise that you try the amplifier first before you attach it, but, you know, that's already sort of for the manual. I'm not going to go into these details here. So let's say you know the place where you want to attach the amplifier. From the inside you find a similar space where you can attach the…

In this episode of AppleVis Extra, hosts Dave Nason and Thomas Domville welcome back Karthik Kannan from Envision for his second appearance this year. The discussion centers around Envision’s newest wearable: the Ally Solos Smart Glasses, developed in partnership with Solos. The conversation covers design, functionality, pricing, and how these glasses differ from Envision’s previous offerings and other competing smart glasses.Key Topics CoveredBackground on EnvisionBrief history of the Envision AI app and original Envision glasses.Introduction of Ally, Envision’s conversational AI assistant.The Ally Solos Smart GlassesLightweight design (approx. 42g) with two HD (2K-class) cameras.Directional stereo speakers with minimal sound leakage.Beamforming microphones for clear audio pickup in noisy environments.Touchpad controls for volume, Ally activation, and navigation.USB-C rechargeable stems with fast charging (14-hour battery life).Functionality & IntegrationFull Ally integration for text reading, object recognition, facial recognition, and conversational interaction.Can also function as standard Bluetooth headphones for calls, music, and voice assistants.Ability to take photos with auto-generated alt text.No built-in GPS — relies on paired phone for location-based services.Pricing & AvailabilityPre-order tiers from \$399 to \$599 USD (€ pricing equivalent).Post-launch price expected to be \$699 USD.Worldwide availability.Pre-orders include one year of Ally Pro subscription (valued at \$200).Accessibility & Language SupportDesigned specifically for blind and low-vision users, with accessibility in setup and daily use.Supports over 20 interface languages (planned to expand to \~40) and understands 100+ languages for input/output.Future Features & PartnershipsPlans for offline Ally functionality in future updates.Potential integration with Aira and Be My Eyes.Commitment to continue supporting original Envision Glasses alongside the new model.Links & ResourcesPre-order Ally Solos Glasses: ally.me/glassesTranscriptDisclaimer: This transcript was generated by AI Note Taker – VoicePen, an AI-powered transcription app. It is not edited or formatted, and it may not accurately capture the speakers’ names, voices, or content.Dave: Hello there and welcome to another episode of the AppleVis Extra. This is episode number 110. I am your host, David Nason, and joined once again by Thomas Domville for AnonyMouse. Good to see you again, buddy. How are you?Thomas: Hey, it's good to see you too. Oh my gosh, we're going to be bringing them on for the second time this year, right? It seems like they're on a roll here.…

In this episode of Apple Crunch, Thomas Domville, John Gassman, and Desiree Renae discuss Apple news and other topics of interest.Chapters:OpeningApple Explores AI-Powered Scene Description with 'SceneScout'Internal Tensions Stirring Within AppleAugmented Reality Glasses Create Industry BuzzAnticipation Builds for Apple’s Fall Launch of the iPhone 17ClosingResources:Apple researching AI agent that can describe Street View scenes to the blindApple faces AI talent turmoil as senior Siri researcher departsApple Weighs Using Anthropic or OpenAI to Power Siri in Major ReversalOakley Meta Glasses Announced With Longer Battery Life, Improved Cameras, and MoreA new look at how Android XR will bring Gemini to glasses and headsetsApple Smart Glasses: Everything We Know So FarApple to Launch 7 AR Headsets, Starting 2025Introducing EchoVisionI don't like the idea of my conversations with Meta AI being public – here's how you can opt outiPhone 17: Everything We KnowiPhone 17 models rumored to feature a redesigned Dynamic Island user interfaceLeaked iPhone 17 Air battery capacity reveals new model’s biggest weaknessIf you have feedback or questions for the Apple Crunch team, you can reach them at [email protected]: This transcript was generated by AI Note Taker – VoicePen, an AI-powered transcription app. It is not edited or formatted, and it may not accurately capture the speakers’ names, voices, or content.Thomas: Hello and welcome to Apple Crunch for July of 2025. My name is Thomas Domville, also known as AnonyMouse. And alongside with me today, let's introduce you to John Gassman. How are you, John? I'm doing good. How are you?John: Wonderful.Thomas: How was your trip to Dallas? Did you have a good time?John…

Episode Title: AppleVis Extra 109: Interview with Klemens Strasser, Developer of Art of FaunaGuest: Klemens Strasser, Indie iOS Developer and Winner of the 2025 Apple Design AwardHosts: David Nason (Dave) and Thomas Domville(AnonyMouse)Length: \~45 minutesEpisode SummaryIn this inspiring and insightful episode, Dave and Thomas speak with Klemens Strasser, the creative mind behind Art of Fauna, a beautifully designed and highly accessible educational puzzle game for iOS. Klemens shares the journey of his app from concept to being honored with an Apple Design Award for Best Design at WWDC 2025.The discussion touches on accessibility in app development, the importance of inclusive design, how Art of Fauna was built with VoiceOver users in mind, and the motivations that drive Klemens to ensure his apps are usable and enjoyable for everyone.What Is Art of Fauna?A nature-inspired puzzle game that lets players:Solve image-based or text-based puzzles about animalsLearn fun facts from 18th- and 19th-century scientific illustrationsChoose between visual or VoiceOver-friendly game modesExperience soothing soundscapes and educational contentTopics Covered✅ Accessibility and DesignKlemens’ passion for inclusive app designVoiceOver integration in puzzle gameplayImportance of building accessibility from the ground upApple’s new “Accessibility Nutrition Labels” and their potential impact✅ The Apple Design Award ExperienceKlemens shares how he learned he wonInsights from attending WWDC and being nominated multiple timesHow previous apps (Letter Rooms, Ancient Board Game Collection) laid the foundation✅ Development ProcessWhy Klemens chose UIKit and SpriteKit over UnityCollaboration with VoiceOver users and accessibility engineersBeta testing and iterative design for inclusive play✅ Game Structure and Monetization10 free puzzles includedFive themed puzzle packs available for a one-time feeNo subscriptions—premium content is pay-oncePeriodic content updates including: Friends of Fauna: users upload animal photos to receive monthly puzzlesEarth Day Bonus Pack: free bonus for bundle buyersDonations: 20% of proceeds go to wildlife conservationWhat’s Next?Klemens announces his next indie app: Pocket Shelf – a new reading tracker app scheduled for release alongside iOS 26.Connect with KlemensWebsite: strasser.appTwitter / X: @klemensstrasserBlog (coming soon): Posts on Art of Fauna donations and accessibility updatesFinal ThoughtsThis episode is a must-listen for:Indie developers exploring accessibilityVoiceOver users seeking innovative, inclusive gamesEducators and parents looking for meaningful screen time for kidsAnyone curious…

In this podcast episode, host Seamus introduces the SoSecure app by ADT, a free iOS emergency assistance application designed to connect users quickly with ADT agents who can contact emergency services on their behalf. Seamus offers a detailed walkthrough of the app’s features, accessibility, and functionality, highlighting its usefulness—especially for those who rely on VoiceOver or have specific communication needs.Listeners are guided through the app’s setup, key functions, and helpful tips to maximize its effectiveness and accessibility. Whether you are visually impaired, need a silent way to communicate during emergencies, or simply want a reliable safety app, this episode provides a thorough overview to get you started.SoSecure by ADT is a personal emergency response app that offers an emergency button with PIN cancellation, automated guardian text notifications, silent SOS chat, and location tracking groups. It is accessible to VoiceOver users and free to download on iOS devices, making it an essential tool for safety and peace of mind in situations where calling 911 directly isn’t possible.Key Topics Covered:Introduction to ADT and SoSecure Seamus explains ADT’s long history as a home security company and clarifies that the SoSecure app does not require an ADT home security system to be used.App Accessibility The app is about 95% accessible with VoiceOver, with a few minor limitations noted.Account Setup Users are required to create an account that includes providing an email, phone number, and a profile picture. A four-digit PIN must be created to cancel emergency calls.Emergency Button Functionality The app features a large emergency button that, when pressed, initiates a 10-second countdown during which the user can cancel the call by entering their PIN. If not canceled, an ADT agent contacts the user and, if necessary, emergency services.Automated Guardian Contacts Users can add up to five guardians (emergency contacts) who receive automated text alerts in an emergency, sent directly from ADT’s system.SOS Chat Feature Text chat is available within the app to communicate with ADT agents silently, beneficial for those who are deaf, hard of hearing, or in situations where verbal communication is unsafe.Location Sharing and Groups The app includes a "My Groups" feature, similar to location tracking apps, allowing users to track and receive notifications about group members' locations, though this feature has limited accessibility.Settings Overview Seamus details the settings menu, including account editing, notification controls, PIN management (which requires a verification text), FAQ access, and legal/contact information.Demonstration of Adding and Removing Guardians The process of adding contacts from the user’s phone and removing them is shown, with accessibility tips for blind users.Emergency Button Demonstration Seamus demonstrates using the emergency button and entering the PIN to cancel a test emergency call.Why Seamus Likes the App Seamus highlights the app’s usefulness, especially when in unfamiliar locations or…

In this episode of Apple Crunch, Thomas Domville, John Gassman, Marty Sobo, and Desiree Renae discuss recent Apple news and other topics of interest.Chapters:OpeningAfter thoughts of the Apple WWDC KeynoteHands-on and Thoughts of iOS 26ClosingResources:WWDC 2025 Keynote: The AppleVis RecapApple Previews New Accessibility Features Coming Later This Year: Accessibility Nutrition Labels, Magnifier for Mac, Braille Access Mode, and MoreIf you have feedback or questions for the Apple Crunch team, you can reach them at [email protected]: This transcript was generated by AI Note Taker – VoicePen, an AI-powered transcription app. It is not edited or formatted, and it may not accurately capture the speakers’ names, voices, or content.Thomas:hello and welcome to apple crunch for June 2025 my name is thomas domville also go by the name of AnonyMouse yes we are back once again guys and here we are with the gang and we got a special new voice for you so a mystery voice i'll introduce that new voice to you in a moment so let's say hello to mr john gassman how are you mr john i'm doing good how are youJohn: Great, great.Thomas: You've been enjoying yourself the past couple months?John:Oh, yeah. Yeah, always stuff going on. I did a nice cruise, and we have a convention coming up shortly before you hear this. And then another cruise in September. So lots of stuff going on this summer.Thomas:Two cruises in a year. You know, I am jealous because you get to go on a Hawaii cruise. That is amazing. Maybe I'll have to join you in a cruise one of these days. That would be fun. We have to go on a Disney cruise. We should do a Disney, yeah, we should do a Disney cruise someday. Exactly. I'm all on board. And then over here, we got Mr. Marty Sobo. How are you, Mr. Marty?Marty:Doing good, doing good. Thank you very much. Glad to be here again.Thomas:Are you busy?Marty:Oh, yeah, always busy.Thomas:Always busy, too?Marty:Yeah.Thomas:Keeping yourself busy with the unmute?Marty: Oh, yeah.Thomas: Excellent. Well, speaking of the unmute, you got a new voiceover on unmute and she is going to be joining us on Apple Crunch from here now. So I am so happy to introduce you to all of you to Desiree Renee. How are you, Desiree?Desiree:I'm good. How are you?Thomas: Wonderful.Desiree: Oh, it's been good. We're finally getting some warmer weather, so that's always nice in Oregon. And although in Texas, when I used to live there, I dreaded the warmer weather, but now I look forward to it.Thomas:Yeah, Texas gets really hot.Desiree:Oh,…