Google+ Hangouts get sign language app, new shortcuts for disabled users

Google has introduced a couple of new features aimed at making Google+ hangouts more easily accessible to the disabled.

Its sign language app allows people who are deaf or hard of hearing to include their own interpreter in a Hangout. They’ll always see their interpreter at the top right of the window, and they’ll become the focus of the Hangout whenever their interpreter speaks for them.

That’s pretty nifty and gives Hangouts an edge over the vast majority of the competing video chat services. You can see how the implications would be particularly useful in business or the media.

Adding keyboard shortcuts to Hangouts is meanwhile designed for people who don’t want to, or can’t, use a mouse. For example: if you want to mute your microphone, press Ctrl+D (PC) or Command+D (Mac), and you can start chatting with Ctrl+B (PC) or Command+B (Mac).

This isn’t the first time Google’s stepped up to the plate when it comes to making its products more accessible to the disabled. Last year for instance, it introduced its Hangout Captions app, a live transcription service for the deaf and hearing impaired. It also released “Take the Floor”, which makes it easier for sign language speakers to do a Hangout together.

Image: ŠJů (via Wikipedia)