At Samsung, we are committed to ensuring that our SmartThings app is accessible to all users, regardless of their abilities. We strive to comply with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (2.1) at level AA, and we continuously work to enhance the accessibility of our services. Here’s how we address accessibility in the SmartThings app:
1. Design and User Interface:
- High Contrast Mode: The app supports high contrast settings for better visibility for users with visual impairments.
- Scalable Text: Users can adjust text size through their device settings, which our app respects, ensuring readability for those with vision issues.
- Color Adjustments: We avoid using color as the only means of conveying information, ensuring that color-blind users can navigate and use the app effectively.
2. Navigation and Control:
- Keyboard Navigation: The app is navigable via keyboard for those who cannot use touch screens or prefer keyboard controls.
- Voice Control Integration: Integration with voice assistants like Bixby, Google Assistant, and Alexa to allow voice commands for controlling smart home devices, aiding users with mobility or dexterity impairments.
3. Screen Reader Compatibility:
- TalkBack and VoiceOver: The app is compatible with screen readers like TalkBack on Android and VoiceOver on iOS. We ensure that all functionalities are accessible via these tools, with proper labels and hints for interactive elements.
4. Content and Media:
- Alternative Text for Images: All non-text content that is presented to the user has a text alternative, except for decorative elements.
- Captions and Audio Descriptions: For any video content or tutorials within the app, we provide captions. We are working towards incorporating audio descriptions where feasible.
5. User Feedback and Support:
- Accessibility Feedback Channel: Users can provide feedback on accessibility through our support channels. Email us at [email protected] for automated responses directing to human support or directly contact our customer service for accessibility concerns.
- Dedicated Support: We have a team dedicated to addressing accessibility issues, ensuring that feedback leads to actionable improvements.
6. Ongoing Efforts:
- Regular Audits: We conduct regular accessibility audits using both automated tools and user testing with individuals with disabilities to identify and fix accessibility barriers.
- Training: Our development team undergoes training on accessibility to ensure that all new features are built with accessibility in mind from the ground up.
7. Compliance:
- While we aim for global standards, we particularly focus on compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, and the EN 301 549 in the European Union.
Commitment to Improvement:
Samsung is dedicated to improving the accessibility of the SmartThings app continually. We recognize that accessibility is an evolving field, and we are committed to updating our practices in line with technological advancements and user feedback.
If you encounter any accessibility barriers or have suggestions on how we can improve, please reach out through the app’s support feature or via email. Your input is invaluable in helping us make SmartThings a universally accessible platform.