Tuesday, September 27, 2022

New Google Calendar shortcuts improve glanceability for screen reader users

What’s changing 

In addition to the improved announcements for braille comments and highlights available in Google Docs on Web, and the recent launch of more control over accessibility preferences, we’re introducing Announce Shortcuts for Calendar event details. 

Users of screen readers can now type a keyboard shortcut (ALT + number,  1 - 7) that verbalizes the content of an event, such as the title, date and time, guest list, and much more. These shortcuts greatly improve glanceability because they enable Calendar details to be heard on demand instead of time consuming navigation through information. 


Getting started 

  • Admins: There is no admin control for this feature. 
  • End users: 
    • To view keyboard shortcuts in Calendar, type: 
      • Ctrl+/ on Windows and ChromeOS 
      • Cmd+/ on Mac 
    • Use the following keyboard combinations to access Announce Shortcuts: 
      • Alt+ for Windows 
      • Alt+Shift+ for ChromeOS 
      • Option+ for Mac 
    • Visit the Help Center to learn more about using a screen reader with Google Calendar. 

Rollout pace 



Availability 

  • Available to all Google Workspace customers, as well as legacy G Suite Basic and Business customers 
  • Available to users with personal Google Accounts 

Resources 


Roadmap 

  • This feature was listed as an upcoming release.