Blind users’ expectations of touch interfaces: factors affecting interface accessibility of touchscreen-based smartphones for people with moderate visual impairment

Although current touchscreen-based smartphones are equipped with some accessibility functions for visually impaired people, these users still face substantial challenges, particularly when using smooth touchscreens. In this study, the accessibility factors of touchscreen interfaces for people with visual impairment were explored through principal components analysis. A total of 32 persons with moderate visual impairment and an average age of 35.6 years (SD = 1.62) participated. The accessibility requirements and user experiences of smartphone touchscreen interfaces were collected. The results indicate that touchscreen interfaces have six major accessibility factors. In addition, the operational style of touchscreen interfaces should be redesigned according to a two-stage process. Furthermore, the design guidelines for accessible touchscreen interfaces that meet the requirements of people with visual impairments are summarised. The findings provide an essential reference for product designers constructing accessible touchscreen interfaces, and reinforce the concept of equality in product use.

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