TikTok, the popular short-form video app, has always been known for its fun and creative content. But on Thursday, the platform took a step towards inclusivity by announcing three new accessibility-focused features. These features were introduced on the occasion of the Global Accessibility Awareness Day, which is observed on the third Thursday of May every year. This year, it falls on May 15.
The first feature announced by TikTok is an update to its alternative text (alt text) support. Alt text is a text description that is added to images or videos to make them accessible to visually impaired users. With this update, TikTok will now use AI to automatically generate descriptive captions for videos. This means that users no longer have to manually add alt text to their videos, making the process much easier and more efficient.
In addition to this, the platform has also introduced a new feature called “automatic captions”. This feature uses speech recognition technology to automatically generate captions for videos. This is a huge step towards making TikTok more accessible for deaf and hard-of-hearing users. Previously, users had to manually add captions to their videos, but with this new feature, it will be done automatically, saving time and effort.
The third feature announced by TikTok is the “sensitivity screen”. This feature allows users to filter out content that may be sensitive or triggering for some individuals. The platform will use AI to identify and flag potentially sensitive content, giving users the option to hide it from their feed. This feature is especially important for users who may have certain sensitivities or triggers, ensuring a more positive and safe experience on the app.
These new features are a testament to TikTok’s commitment towards inclusivity and accessibility. The platform has always been a place for creativity and self-expression, and with these updates, it is now more inclusive for all users. In a statement, TikTok’s Head of Accessibility, Jennifer Pinnell, said, “We want everyone to feel comfortable and welcome on our platform, and these new features are a step towards achieving that goal.”
The timing of these updates is also significant as it coincides with the Global Accessibility Awareness Day. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about accessibility and promoting the importance of making technology and digital content accessible for all. By introducing these features, TikTok is not only promoting inclusivity on its own platform but also spreading awareness about the importance of accessibility in the digital world.
The response to these new features has been overwhelmingly positive, with many users expressing their gratitude on social media. One user tweeted, “As a visually impaired person, I am so grateful for these new accessibility features on TikTok. It makes the app more enjoyable and inclusive for me.” Another user wrote, “The automatic captions on TikTok are a game-changer for me. I can finally understand what’s happening in videos without having to ask someone to explain it to me.”
TikTok’s efforts towards accessibility have not gone unnoticed. In 2020, the platform received a silver award from the American Association of People with Disabilities for its commitment to accessibility. With these new features, TikTok is set to continue its mission of making the app more inclusive for all users.
In conclusion, TikTok’s announcement of three new accessibility-focused features is a step in the right direction. By using AI to automatically generate alt text and captions, and introducing a sensitivity screen, the platform is making its content more accessible and inclusive for all users. This move not only promotes inclusivity on the app but also raises awareness about the importance of accessibility in the digital world. Kudos to TikTok for taking this positive step towards a more inclusive and accessible platform.
