We sometimes take for granted the “freedom” and capability we have to use smartphones and tablets whichever way we want. But having a disability should not be a hindrance for people to enjoy using gadgets and getting the most out of digital life (in addition to real life of course). That’s why we always get a kick out of companies that develop gadgets and apps to help those who aren’t fully capable of using one or two or more of their senses. Samsung is about to launch an app that will cater to those with upper limb disabilities.
The app called DOWELL will work together with the person’s already existing (or brand new) assistive computer devices like head mouse devices, track balls, or any other assistive technology that was created to interact with computers. With the new app, you can now use it as well on your Samsung smartphone. The motions that people with upper limb problems may have trouble doing, like tap-clicking, swiping, and pinching to control the smartphone will be solved by this app.
The first step is to install the DOWELL app on the smartphone to be used, and then to connect the smartphone to whichever USB-type assistive device they use. The upper screen of the interface now has various commands like tap or drag, and the user will just need to choose which one he/she is comfortable with. The lower screen has the menu, home screen, back function, as well as the other hardware keys you’ll normally find in a Sasmsung Galaxy phone.
DOWELL is still in beta testing mode right now, but will be available for commercial use by the third quarter of this year. It is compatible with most Samsung smartphones, starting with the Galaxy S3 up to the latest models.
SOURCE: Samsung
