- Apple previewed a number of accessibility advancements, including new technology that allows users to synthesize their own voice for face-to-face or phone use.
- The technology is called Live Speech, and requires the user to record 15 minutes of audio in order for it to be generated on the device.
- This new technology is part of a broader accessibility feature suite that includes improvements for users with visual or cognitive impairments.
Apple iPhone 14
Nick Cooley | Bloomberg | Getty Images
Ahead of June’s WWDC event, Apple previewed on Tuesday a set of accessibility features coming “later this year” in the next major iPhone update.
Expected as part of iOS 17, the new “Personal Voice” feature will allow iPhones and iPads to generate a digital reproduction of the user’s voice for face-to-face conversations, phone calls, FaceTime and voice calls.
Apple said Personal Voice creates a synthetic voice just like you and can be used to connect with family and friends. This feature is intended for users with conditions that may affect their speaking ability over time.
Apple Personal Voice
apple
Users can create a personal voice by recording 15 minutes of audio on their device. Apple said the feature uses local machine learning techniques to maximize privacy.
It’s part of a larger suite of accessibility improvements for iOS devices, including new Assistive Access features that make iOS devices easier to use for users with cognitive disabilities and their caregivers.
Apple also announced another technology powered by machine learning. It enhances the existing magnifier functionality with a new detection mode that leverages point-and-speaking. The new feature combines camera input, LiDAR input and machine learning technology to announce text on screen.
Apple usually announces software in beta at WWDC. This means that the feature will be available for the first time to developers and members of the public who wish to opt-in. These features typically remain in beta during the summer and become generally available in the fall when new features are released. The iPhone has hit the market.
Apple’s 2023 WWDC conference starts on June 5th. The company is expected to unveil its first virtual reality headset, among other software and hardware announcements.
