Microsoft Research has released a toolkit to improve VR Accessibility for those with visual deficits

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It seems rather obvious, but Virtual Reality is heavily based on vision, which poses an accessibility issue for the hundreds of millions of people with less than perfect eyes.

Microsoft Research has addressed the issue head-on with a new toolkit for Unity VR developers which help users have better control over their VR experience and enhances their ability to perceive their virtual surroundings.

Called SeeingVR, the tool lets users implement 14 filters such as a bifocal lens, a magnifier, controls to adjust for brightness and contrast, edge enhancement and depth measurements.  They can be seen demonstrated in the video below.

Microsoft tested the toolkit on 11 users with visual issues and report all 11 were able to complete tasks such as shooting or menu selection more easily with the filters than without.

Developers interested in implementing the technology can find much more details at Microsoft Research here.

Via Engadget.com

More about the topics: accessibility, microsoft research, unity vr

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