Comcast launches its new Xfinity Large Button Voice Remote, designed for users with mobility, dexterity, or vision impairments. The device, available to X1 and Flex customers at no additional cost, combines Comcast’s voice control technology with advancements in accessible hardware design, inclusive packaging, and customer experience.

An Accessible Remote

Comcast’s design team worked side-by-side with the disability community to test and refine the creation of its new Large Button Voice Remote. Accessibility features and functionality were the top priorities throughout the remote’s development.

New Horizon’s Inc, an organization that provides housing and support services for people with physical disabilities, participated in the research and testing.

Features and Functionality That Enhance Accessibility

The collaboration behind Comcast’s new Large Button Voice Remote helped create a world-class experience, from end to end, for people with vision, mobility, and dexterity impairments.

Easy Navigation
At the heart of the remote is Comcast’s voice control technology. Users can find what they want—and find it faster—using voice commands to change channels, search for shows, get recommendations, and more. The remote also includes a prominent accessibility shortcut button that offers quick, easy connection to personalized X1 and Flex accessibility settings. With this button, users can enable popular accessibility features like Comcast’s Talking Guide, closed captions, large text capabilities, audio description, and more, to suit their needs.

Enhanced Visuals
Locating and navigating the Large Button Voice Remote is easy, thanks to its large backlit buttons and high contrast colors. Plus, the increased font size on all the remote’s buttons improves readability.

Precision Features
In addition to its enhanced functionality, the Large Button Voice Remote’s physical design provides ease of use. A removable wrist strap allows for more precise handling and control. An innovative battery compartment features a rubber pull tab design and “press to slide” battery cover making it easier to change batteries. An elevated, flat-back design allows for increased stability when the remote is used on a flat surface like a wheelchair tray or with other assistive devices.

Accessible Set-Up
The inclusive packaging for the Large Button Voice Remote uses large typography and tactile features, including braille and an embossed arrow near the package’s opening, to orient users who are visually impaired. The remote comes with an audio guide that automatically begins playing step-by-step instructions upon opening, allowing users to pair the remote to their television in less than a minute. The remote also uses haptic vibrations to create a multi-sensory experience that alerts users when pairing is complete.

Leveraging Comcast’s Global Technology Platform to Improve Accessibility

The new Large Button Voice Remote leverages voice search technology within Comcast’s global technology platform, enabling customers to easily navigate the interface and discover programming across networks and streaming services with just the sound of their voice.

Available at No Additional Cost

X1 and Flex customers can request a remote, at no additional charge, through Comcast’s Accessibility Support Center. Comcast’s Accessibility Support Center is now home to more than 140 agents specially trained on Comcast products and services, support for third-party assistive devices, and information related to Braille or large print bills. Comcast also offers support in American Sign Language through a partnership with Connect Direct, a subsidiary of Communication Service for the Deaf.

[Source(s): Comcast Corporation, Business Wire]