More good news for accessibility in Windows 11

Have you ever opened a document or presentation only to find that much of the information is trapped in an image or graphic that you can't quite decipher?

Perhaps it's a complex chart or a photo with important details, yet no description was provided.

Microsoft is developing a solution to eliminate such instances, particularly for individuals with accessibility needs.

They're testing a new feature in Windows 11 called Describe Image, powered by AI technology built directly into your PC.

On Copilot+ PCs (the latest Windows devices utilizing AI on the computer), Describe Image can be found in the Click to Do menu. By selecting it, your PC will immediately generate a detailed description of any image, chart, or graph you're viewing.

The first time you use it, your computer configures the necessary AI models. After that, the entire process is local, ensuring that no images or data are sent elsewhere. Descriptions remain private and secure on your machine.

This feature is currently being introduced to Windows Insiders on the Dev Channel with Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs. Microsoft has announced that AMD and Intel Copilot+ PCs will also receive it soon.

At first glance, this might not seem significant. However, imagine a team member with a visual impairment being able to comprehend a complex graph in seconds, without needing someone else to explain it.

Or envision a busy employee quickly scanning a report and instantly grasping the content of a set of images, without having to open another app or seek out the right person for clarification.

Microsoft is enhancing technology to be more inclusive, removing obstacles and boosting productivity.

Accessibility features like this go beyond compliance or checking a box. They can significantly impact people's everyday work.

When employees can easily access information, they perform better, collaborate more effectively, and feel included. This benefits them and is advantageous for your business as well.

Windows 11 continues to introduce these considerate improvements. Describe Image is another step toward a world where technology adapts to people, rather than the reverse.

If you're already exploring Copilot+ PCs, this is another reason to be excited about future developments. If you need assistance in choosing new devices suitable for your business, my team and I are here to help. Get in touch.