As part of our accessibility enhancements, we have standardized heading elements across pages and improved screen reader navigation.
Now that a diverse range of users are accessing the web using various devices in various situations, web accessibility(*) is becoming an essential quality for all web content.
note began working on accessibility enhancements in 2021 and has launched a project team to drive improvements so that all creators can enjoy creating on note, share their processes and works, and support one another.
This time, we have primarily improved accessibility when accessing note via web browsers such as Google Chrome.
* Web Accessibility
Generally, accessibility refers to the ease of access. It is also used to mean the ease of use of products or services. Web accessibility is the term used to describe the accessibility of the web. It refers to the ease of use of web content, or more specifically, the information and functions on a web page.
Fixed inconsistencies in heading element specifications across pages
Heading elements such as "Home" and "Featured" in the home screen header, category navigation, and notifications were specified differently depending on the page, so we have corrected them to ensure a consistent structure.
As a result, not only can screen readers(*) read the content more effectively on the web browser version (PC and smartphone), but it has also become easier to understand when using VoiceOver(*) on the iOS app, making it easier to access the content you are looking for.
The following five areas were updated in this release:
* Screen Reader
Software that reads aloud the content displayed on the screen and keyboard input for users with visual impairments. It is standard on many computer and smartphone operating systems, including Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android.
* VoiceOver
The screen reader standard on iOS. Even without seeing the screen, users can operate the device by having the content displayed on the screen read aloud through gesture controls. Settings can be adjusted via the "Accessibility" section in the Settings app.
Other accessibility enhancement initiatives
In addition, we have implemented the following accessibility measures over the past month or two.
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Adjustments to screen reader announcements in web browsers
Improved the clarity of image descriptions for embedded content (such as Amazon) pasted into articles
Added partial support for reading out video content such as YouTube
Fixed an issue where focus did not return correctly when using a screen reader on the 'See More' button on creator and magazine pages
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Visibility adjustments in the iOS app
Adjusted the colors of lines and shadows in dark mode to make them easier to see
Changed the color of selected buttons, such as headings and bullet points, while editing text articles
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Revamping the team and development structure
Introduced a mechanism called 'lint' that can automatically check for accessibility. This makes it easier to notice missed accessibility considerations.
The development team underwent a reorganization in January. By rotating members, we plan to proceed with development while incorporating perspectives from outside the accessibility team.
At note, we are committed to continuing our efforts to improve accessibility while sincerely listening to the voices of our creators. If you would like to cooperate with an interview, please apply via this form.
Our previous accessibility initiatives are summarized in the magazine below.
Please send any accessibility-related requests to note feedback. For other inquiries, please use the request submission form.