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Google Maps just got a huge accessibility upgrade — What you need to know?
Google Maps’ next update will include reports regarding accessibility issues at public transit stations, making it much easier to plan your journey. Initially reported by CNET, it appears that Google Maps has released a new update focusing on keeping users updated with potential accessibility disruptions, such as malfunctioning elevators or escalators. So far, the update is available on iOS, Android and desktop platforms.

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Designing for Inclusivity: The Shift Left Approach towards Accessible Design Systems (ADS)
The Shift left approach helps meet your goal towards being inclusive. Along with legal requirements, it’s also about creating digital experiences that are welcoming and usable for everyone. By embedding accessibility into the core of your design systems, you can build products that reflect a commitment towards inclusivity, ultimately leading to a more equitable digital world. Start early, involve everyone, and continually strive to create inclusive experiences that make a difference.
People Stories

Senate Democrats push an accessibility refresh
As the federal government continues to largely fail to meet online accessibility requirements established decades ago, a group of Democrats have introduced a new proposal meant to update the underlying statute. “The government as a whole is not meeting the minimum standard or legal obligation to provide equal access,” reads a report from the General Services Administration earlier this year. It found that less than 30% of the most viewed web pages, electronic documents and videos were fully compliant.
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How a musical indie game went against the grain to explore the Deaf experience
The Musical took a lot of time and resources, but according to its developers, it was worth it. To Matt Korba, Studio Founder, Harmonium required a “ground-up approach” that, from day one, integrated the people with the same lived experiences as the characters created for the game. That included engaging the Southern California Association for the Deaf and recruiting deaf developers and artists.


Advocates hope digital map makes Toronto art more accessible
Community researchers and advocates with the umbrella group AccessArt are ranking public installations in each city across the country. After three years of work, they hope the progress they've made so far helps people with disabilities to not only navigate Toronto — where they've catalogued the most pieces — but also guide artists to create more inclusive installations & encourage the public to think more deeply about the importance of accessibility.
Achieve Digital Accessibility at Scale: Audit – Maintain – Comply
BarrierBreak is the Leader in Offshore Digital Accessibility Testing & Consulting. Your trusted adviser and reliable source for accessibility testing solutions. Get in touch with us to ensure your digital solutions conform to WCAG 2.1 & 2.2, Section 508 Testing, and to create a VPAT for your product.
