by David Redmond
I think it's fair to call me a VoiceOver fan. On iPhone and iPad at least, I
think VoiceOver is a really well-built screen reader that easily rivals Jaws
for those using PCs. However, iOS17.4 has me asking a question. Is it time
for a third-party screen reader on iPhone and iPad?
Let's talk about Sideloading
From iOS 17.4, Apple will be allowing iPhone users to install apps from
third-party app stores. This follows pressure from the EU, who don't really
like Apple's closed app ecosystem.
This means that in theory, you'll be able to install apps that aren't
approved by Apple. Apps like the video game Fortnite will likely be the
first to benefit, but in theory, who knows what people might create.
There will almost certainly be more choices on iPhone after this change, but
the accessibility and security of these third-party stores are unclear right
now. It is interesting to speculate however on the possibility of us getting
a third-party screen reader out of all of this.
Will a third-party screen reader happen?
My guess is those apps that can be downloaded following this change will be
relatively self-contained and won't be able to do much outside of the app
itself. For a screen reader to work it needs near full access to the entire
system, and I just can't see Apple granting third-party developers that
ability.
However, it is interesting to think of a third-party screen reader concept.
What would it do that VoiceOver can't?
VoiceOver already supports things like third-party voice plugins, so
honestly, I can't think of what a third-party screen reader could bring to
the table. Maybe a scripting tool, that would enable the creation of scripts
that could enhance the functionality of apps? That would be cool, but does
it need a whole new screen reader? I'd argue not.
Sideloading on iOS might bring some accessibility enhancements, but what
could it do for those with sight loss?
How might we benefit from side loading?
Some readers of this post will likely have heard of Blindfold Games. Several
years ago Blindfold Games had a dispute with Apple as Apple felt they were
releasing the same app over and over again, effectively spamming the App
Store. In reality, they were all different but used a similar design on the
surface. Apple's app review team didn't see the difference as they weren't
audio gamers.
In the end, after significant backlash, Apple and Blindfold Games developer
Marty Schultz found a compromise, where Apple effectively reversed their
decision. All is calm in the camp once more.
But what if that didn't happen
If Apple didn't listen, back in the iOS 11 days that could have marked the
end for BlindFold games. Now in iOS 17.4, users might be able to get the App
from a different store. It's an interesting thought.
Maybe we'll see special Accessibility-focused App Stores, or maybe there'll
be a store filled with just audio games.
In many respects the future is unknown. We're unlikely to see anything close
to Android launchers and such, but could we see cool access-themed app
stores? It's definitely possible.
Conclusion
I personally don't think we'll see a third-party screen reader on iOS
anytime soon, despite Apple's more open approach. It's very likely we'll see
some accessibility-focused apps hit third-party stores, but I'd expect that
will be it initially.
I haven't been convinced I need another App Store just yet, but choice is a
good thing. I just hope this new open ecosystem doesn't hit security too
hard, but time will tell.
Let us know if you plan on using a third-party App Store, or tell us what
you'd like in a third-party screen reader. Send us a WhatsApp Voice note to
086 199 0011, and we might discuss your views in a future episode of Talking
Technology.
Vision Ireland Technology News.
