Vision

VoiceOver

To make it easier for the blind and those with low-vision to use a computer, Apple has built a solution into every Mac. Called VoiceOver, it’s reliable, simple to learn, and enjoyable to use.

• In Depth
• Device Support
• Application Support
• Downloads

VoiceOver Application Support

Every new Mac comes with Mac OS X and VoiceOver installed and includes a variety of accessible applications. You can also purchase additional Apple and third-party applications to use with VoiceOver. While this page lists a few of the most popular applications, many more are available. If you use an application with VoiceOver that’s not on this list, and you would like to have it added, send email to accessibility@apple.com.

Unlike traditional screen readers, VoiceOver is integrated into the operating system, so you can start using new accessible applications right away. You don’t need to buy an update to VoiceOver, install a new copy, or add the application to a “white list.” Moreover, VoiceOver commands work the same way in every application, so once you learn how to use them, you’ll be able to apply what you know to any accessible application.

Apple provides developers with a Cocoa framework that contains common, reusable application components (such as menus, text fields, buttons, and sliders), so developers don’t have to re-create these elements each time they write a new application. And because these Cocoa objects have built-in accessibility support, applications that use them work well with VoiceOver without much extra work. Apple also provides tools and guidelines to developers who create custom interface elements — or who don’t use the Cocoa framework — so any application can be made compatible with VoiceOver.

If you’re a software developer and would like to learn more about making your application accessible, visit the accessibility pages on Apple’s developer website.