24–29 Jul 2025
Europe/Rome timezone

Bridging Accessibility Barriers: Enhancing Screen Reader Functionality in Modern Gnome

24 Jul 2025, 09:00
40m
40 Minute Presentation - In Person Design of User and Developer Experiences

Description

In today's evolving technological landscape, accessibility remains a crucial consideration in software development. This presentation delves into the world of screen readers, exploring how these tools empower visually impaired individuals to effectively interact with computers. We will underscore the continued importance of the keyboard as the most effective input device for visually impaired, even in the modern digital environment.

As we transition from legacy systems to modern platforms like Wayland and GTK 4, significant challenges arise in handling input devices. Our discussion will cover the current state of screen reader integration with these platforms, the obstacles presented by deprecated APIs, particularly in GTK 4, and the interactions involved in the shift to Wayland.

This talk will also introduce a new approach that, when widely adopted, promises to resolve these challenges effectively. Join us as we explore the path toward a more inclusive digital world, where technology truly empowers all users.

Author(s) Bio

A visually impaired programmer working at Red Hat on making the Linux desktop as accessible for visually impaired as is possible within the constraints of the open-source ecosystem.

Presentation Type In Person

Author

Lukáš Tyrychtr

Presentation materials

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