Welcome to the May 2025 edition of AppleVis Unlimited, your monthly digest of the latest and most notable content on the AppleVis website. This newsletter features a curated selection of community-submitted content, including new app entries; updates; news; podcasts; how-to guides; and popular discussions.
An Opening Thought
May 2025 was an exciting month at AppleVis, with much more on the way in the coming months as we enter Apple's software and hardware release season. Highlights of this month's activities include:
- A podcast interview with Sarah Herrlinger, Apple's Senior Director of Global Accessibility Policy and Initiatives. In the podcast, we talked to Sarah about the new accessibility features coming later this year in Apple software, as well as the 2024 Apple Vision Accessibility Report Card and how users can provide feedback to Apple.
- Multiple community-submitted podcasts. We want to amplify the voices and lived experiences of people in our community, and this month we were excited to receive and publish a number of excellent community-submitted Mac demonstrations. If you enjoy sharing your knowledge with others and are an expert in a particular area of the Apple ecosystem, we invite you to record and submit a podcast for possible publication on AppleVis. Podcasts must relate directly to Apple products or services, be free of promotion or advertising, and must be of sufficient quality and detail for the subject matter.
- Coverage of Apple's accessibility feature announcements ahead of Global Accessibility Awareness Day.
- New text guides on VoiceOver settings. AppleVis Editor Levi Gobin shared three new guides with the community this month, including guides covering VoiceOver settings on both iOS and macOS.
- Announcement of a new AppleVis community bug-tracking initiative set to launch in mid-June 2025.
Looking ahead, Apple's Worldwide Developer's Conference (WWDC) is being held June 9-13, with their annual Keynote set to take place on June 9 at 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time. The WWDC Keynote is where Apple unveils the next major updates to their various operating systems, and beta testers will likely get their first look at the new software the same day it is unveiled. We will be sharing written analysis of the Keynote announcements from an alum of the AppleVis Team; as well as a roundtable podcast later that week. We hope you will join us for the WWDC Keynote festivities and share your opinions on everything Apple announces.
New and Noteworthy App Entries
AMP Shockwave (iOS, Free)
AMP Shockwave is a Safari extension that redirects AMP pages to normal pages.
Current Version: 1.0.3 (October 6, 2024)
AMP Shockwave's AppleVis iOS App Directory entry AMP Shockwave's App Store page
Art of Fauna: Cozy Puzzles (iOS, Free with In-App Purchases)
Discover the wonders of nature with "The Art of Fauna", a beautiful puzzle game! Each artwork is paired with a fascinating description about the animal it depicts, allowing you to choose your path: relax and piece together stunning vintage drawings, or challenge yourself by reconstructing the text and learn about these magnificent animals.
THE ART
Immerse yourself in a curated collection of natural history masterpieces from the 18th and 19th centuries. These stunning wildlife illustrations, crafted by renowned artists like John James Audubon and John Gould, were originally created for scientific publications, perfectly capturing the marriage of artistry and natural science of their era.
GIVING BACK
We believe in protecting the magnificent animals that inspired these artworks. That's why a portion of every purchase supports selected wildlife conservation organisations, helping to preserve endangered species and their habitats for future generations.
ACCESSIBLE FOR EVERYONE
The Art of Fauna was designed to be truly accessible to everyone. The unique puzzle approach that lets you choose between picture and text puzzle, paired with makes it playable regardless of visual or cognitive impairments. Additional accessibility options include:
- Simplified texts for better comprehension
- Dyslexia-friendly fonts
- Customizable color schemes
- Content filters that let you hide specific animals that might cause discomfort
- Support for VoiceOver, VoiceControl and Switch Control
CONTENTS
The game includes 110 puzzles from 5 different biomes. The first 10 are free for everyone, the rest can be purchased via in-app purchase.
Current Version: 1.4.2 (May 20, 2025)
Art of Fauna's AppleVis iOS App Directory entry Art of Fauna's App Store page
OpenTok for Safari (iOS, Free)
OpenTok is a Safari extension that brings back the ability to watch shared TikToks in your browser.
With TikTok's recent changes, trying to watch videos in the browser has become a hassle. OpenTok solves this problem by stripping tracking details from shared TikTok links, allowing you to watch videos without ever installing TikTok or making an account. It also cleans up the page for a distraction-free viewing experience.
Current Version: 1.0.6 (March 7, 2025)
OpenTok's AppleVis iOS App Directory entry OpenTok's App Store page
P Water App (iOS, Free with In-App Purchases)
Drink water when your body needs it most. Water tracker? Think again! Dehydration is no joke! Up your hydration game with P.
P tracker is easier and better than a water intake tracker: it reminds you to drink water when itâs been a long time since you peed, helping you build a healthy habit to defeat dehydration.
Just tap one button every time youâre on your way to the bathroom!
It's great for Apple Watch or as a Lock Screen Widget, and not as complicated as a water tracker. Who wants to use an annoying, complicated water tracker to drink water? Up your hydration game with this app!
Current Version: 2025.15 (May 27, 2025)
P Water App's AppleVis iOS App Directory entry P Water App's App Store page
Patreon (iOS, Free)
Exclusive access to your favorite creators and communities from anywhere.
Patreon is where you can access exclusive podcasts, videos, art, writing, recipes, courses, music, and more from your favorite creators, and build community with both the creators you love and other fans.
When you join a creatorâs Patreon, you unlock access to a world of exclusive posts, a community group chat, and more. Hereâs how you can use the Patreon app to make your experience even better:
ACCESS exclusive work from your favorite creators in seconds, from sneak peeks and bonus episodes to demo tracks and behind-the-scenes looks.
JOIN the conversation in community group chats, where you can engage directly with creators and other fans in an intimate space outside of the comments section.
DOWNLOAD podcasts, music, and other audio for easy offline listening.
BE the first to experience the latest releases from creators you love.
IMMERSE yourself in creatorsâ worlds, where their work is grouped and displayed in easy-to-navigate collections.
GET to know other fans and let other fans get to know you through personalized fan profiles.
Current Version: 125.6.0 (May 15, 2025)
Patreon's AppleVis iOS App Directory entry Patreon's App Store page
taceo (iOS, Free)
Play a memory game using only your sense of touch -- no visual or aural stimulus necessary.
Taceo is a memory game that can be played using only the sense of touch.
A remix of the classic Simon electronic memory game, Taceo is built to be a step towards games accessible for everyone. Most games are built to test the player's observation skills through their senses of sight and hearing, leaving them unavailable for people with visual or aural disabilities. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 7.5% of people are visually impaired or have low vision and over 5% of people are deaf. It is challenging for this 12.5% of the population to enjoy modern entertainment in the same way that unimpaired people do. Taceo was designed to be accessible and fun for everyone, regardless of their impairments.
Our solution to this problem is the utilization of vibrations. The player feels a series of vibrations, each one indicating a different gesture that they must remember.
Current Version: 1.2.0 (September 2, 2020)
taceo's AppleVis iOS App Directory entry taceo's App Store page
TextingStory Chat Story Maker (iOS, Free with In-App Purchases)
Join 20 million happy users and unleash your creativity!
- Write a text conversation in TextingStory
- Create a video with your story
- Watch it and share it
TextingStory allows you to write conversations like any messaging app, except you can switch sides by swiping left or right over the message area. You can also press the characters' names.
Take all the time you need to write your conversations. The videos are automatically accelerated for a consistently fast-paced result!
Every keystroke is recorded, so feel free to play with corrections, hesitations, or misspellings!
Current Version: 6.0 (May 28, 2025)
TextingStory's AppleVis iOS App Directory entry TextingStory's App Store page
Uninstaller sensei (macOS, Free with In-App Purchases)
Uninstaller sensei is software for completely removing applications and leftover files that associated with app.
Cleanup disk space from apps junk by using tools like applications remainders, caches and logs.
UNINSTALLER
- Remove installed applications by select from list.
- Drag & drop applications to directly to app or to dock icon for deletion.
- Delete applications in usual way just by moving .app files into the Trash.
- Remove applications that a long time not been used.
- Reset app to initial state for cleanup application data or if app does not work properly.
DISK CLEANER
- Delete applications remainder files from previously incorrectly removed applications
- Cleanup application cache files for speed up application work and free up disk space.
- Cleanup application logs files for free up disk space from files that usually unnecessary.
- Find and delete used installation package files, that no longer need.
- Delete mail attachments that contains on your disk after email was opened.
- Browsers can store a lot of data like cookies, caches, this can take up a lot of disk space and can be cleaned.
- Delete Xcode unneeded files that was created during development.
- Find and remove screenshots that are no longer need.
- Scan your files and quick select and delete files that no longer needed.
OTHER TOOLS
- Uninstaller sensei contains tools for completely removing Safari extensions, installed Plugins and Preferences panes.
Current Version: 1.8.8 (March 3, 2025)
Uninstaller sensei's AppleVis Mac App Directory entry Uninstaller sensei's App Store page
Unsmartifier (iOS, Free with In-App Purchases)
Unsmartifier is a Safari Web Extension that lets you remove annoying Smart App Banners that wants you to download an App for the current webpage.
Just enable Unsmartifier and it runs unnoticeably in the background and prevents future Smart App Banners to be shown.
Usage:
- Open Settings
- Select Safari
- Select Extensions
- Select 'Unsmartifier'
- Enable 'Unsmartifier'
- Enable 'All Websites'
Info on Permissions:
Unsmartifier needs to run on all websites to prevent the Smart App Banners on sites you haven't occurred yet. Unsmartifier doesn't do anything else than that.
Please note that it can not remove App Clips Banner that link to the app of website. To remove those banners you need to remove the corresponding app.
It also focuses on the system Smart Banners. If a website uses custom ones those can not be blocked. Those can be blocked with various Content Blockers
Current Version: 1.1.1 (June 9, 2023)
Unsmartifier's AppleVis iOS App Directory entry Unsmartifier's App Store page
All recent app entries posted to AppleVis may be found at:
Notable App Updates
ally - accessible ai assistant (iOS, Free)
ally is an ai assistant built for accessibilityâdesigned to empower people who need a smarter, personal & more intuitive way to interact with the world.
unlike mainstream ai tools that assume users can see a screen or type, ally is fully voice-first, context-aware, and designed to support how you interact with the world.
Itâs not just a one-off answer. ally remembers context, learns your preferences, and responds in a way that fits your needsâwhether itâs reading, navigating, recognizing objects, or managing daily tasks.
designed for accessibility from the ground up
ally is built entirely around accessibility features. itâs designed for voice-first interactions, works seamlessly with screen readers, and prioritizes ease of use.
help whenever and wherever you need it
talk to ally on your smartphone, computer, or smartglasses. whether youâre at home, commuting, or at work, ally is always ready to assist, on any device.
how does ally work?
ask ally for help â speak or type a question, whether itâs reading a menu, describing your surroundings, or summarizing a document.
get fast, intelligent responses â ally gives clear, detailed answers, designed for accessibility.
works across multiple devices â ally moves with you, from your phone to envision glasses to the web.
Current Version: 1.2.0 (May 13, 2025)
App Store Release Notes for Version 1.2.0 (May 13, 2025)
hereâs whatâs new and a little bit magic:
- scan and chat with your documents
just say âscan this document for meâ or âcan you read thisâ and ally will do the rest. you can even ask follow-up questions about what you scanned. nothing gets past ally, not even the smallest details.- sync with your envision glasses
ally now connects with your envision glasses. all your data, your about you info, and every one of your allies, synced and ready wherever you go.- take your allies everywhere
have an ally account? your allies now travel with you across all platforms. no more starting from scratch - your world, in sync.
ally's AppleVis iOS App Directory entry ally's App Store page
Anytime Podcast Player (iOS, Free)
Anytime Podcast Player is a free and open-source podcast player that's designed to be simple and easy to use. Anytime is Podcasting 2.0 ready and will support more features as the app is developed.
Discover podcasts:
- Search from over 4 million free podcasts.
- Discover something new in the podcast charts.
- Follow your favourite podcasts so you never miss an episode.
- Stream episodes or download for offline playback later.
Features:
- View episode chapters and skip to the part of an episode you're interested in*
- Directly support the show via funding links*
- Follow along or search transcripts*
- Listen at faster or slower speeds.
- Queue episodes with option to rearrange order.
- Download episodes for offline listening.
- Pause a streamed or downloaded episode and pickup where you left off later on.
* Chapters, transcripts and funding links appear for podcasts that support Podcasting 2.0.
Current Version: 1.3.12 (May 18, 2025)
App Store Release Notes for Version 1.3.12 (May 18, 2025)
- Continuous play option.
- HTML & text within notes is now selectable for copy/pasting.
- Support for Spanish language (thank you Paco).
- Support for VTT transcripts.
- Support for podcast and episode sharing via episodes.fm.
- Accessibility fixes & enhancements.
- Bug fixes.
Anytime's AppleVis iOS App Directory entry Anytime's App Store page
Dystopia for Reddit (iOS, Free)
Dystopia is a fast, powerful, and accessible app for Reddit.
Packed full of creature comforts like a beautiful media viewer and power user features like full keyboard navigation and a built-in command interface, Dystopia is a great way to use Reddit whether you're new to the site or have been there since the dark ages (back when the Narwhal was Baconing at Midnight). Upvote with just a flick, enjoy real-time chat to quickly hash things out privately, get notified when someone replies to your comments, and submit your own images and posts all without leaving the app.
Dystopia is meant to be enjoyed by everyone; whether you like to use your device with a larger font size, VoiceOver, a braille reader, or Switch Control, Dystopia is convenient and natural to use.
Current Version: 1.0.1 (May 23, 2025)
App Store Release Notes for Version 1.0.1 (May 23, 2025)
- Fixed issue where thumbnails would sometimes fail to appear
- Fixed a link handling issue where some shortlinks would not open properly
- Corrected a handful of app interface and VoiceOver issues
Dystopia's AppleVis iOS App Directory entry Dystopia's App Store page
Dolphin EasyReader (iOS, Free with In-App Purchases)
Open a World of Accessible Books
EasyReader removes barriers to reading, connecting users to accessible book libraries and talking newspaper stands globally, so readers can enjoy books in ways they find comfortable and accessible.
EasyReader enhances the reading experience for individuals with dyslexia, vision impairments, and other print-related challenges.
Simply log in to your preferred library and download up to ten titles at a time. Millions of books, including classic literature, the latest bestsellers, non-fiction, textbooks and childrenâs books are all available to read in accessible formats. You can also access talking newspaper stands to enjoy magazines, newspapers and other reading material.
Current Version: 12.01 (May 19, 2025)
App Store Release Notes for Version 12.01 (May 19, 2025)
The latest update to EasyReader enhances accessibility, so you can read comfortably, in the ways that work best for you. With improved usability, itâs easier than ever to focus on what matters most: the joy of reading.
More Accessible UI
New icons and colours fully comply with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) to ensure better usability for all. Bigger buttons mean easier navigation and My Account is now more prominently displayed, so managing your settings is effortless. Plus, a new icon shows precisely how much of your book youâve read - perfect for tracking your reading progress.
Full Screen Mode
Immerse yourself in the story with a single tap. This new mode clears distractions for a clear, focused reading experience.
âAsk A Questionâ in EasyReader Help
AI-powered support is just a click away, helping you get the most out of EasyReader. Plus, if you spot one, you can now âReport a Bugâ in EasyReader Help, so we can continue to provide you with the best reading experience.
Screen Reader View
Designed for braille readers and screen readers, this new linear reading mode ensures seamless navigation for vision impaired readers.
Image Descriptions (Premium Feature)
Hear a description of any image in your book - generated by AI - to enhance your reading enjoyment.
EasyReader's AppleVis iOS App Directory entry EasyReader's App Store page
Eldermyth (iOS, US$2.99 with In-App Purchases)
Defend a mythical land as ancient beasts in this high-score roguelike. Use powers, weather and land synergy to save villages and stop invaders from colonising the land.
A once hidden land, inhabited by indigenous villagers and mythical beasts, is under threat from foreign invaders.
Play as one of the beasts, using the weather, your unique powers and your synergy with the different land types, to save villagers, drive off invaders and prevent them from mining and colonising the land. All in the name of chasing a high score! Key features:
- Turn-based roguelike (broughlike) inspired by mechanics from games of Michael Brough (868-HACK, Cinco Paus and Imbroglio)
- Play as 1 of 6 beasts, each with unique rules and powers. Or, play the new Amalgam mode to create a custom beast
- Risk/Reward strategic decisions on how you manage the board
- Game grid is made up of 5 different land types which beasts engage with differently
- Procedural generated game board (land tile placement) means a different game every time
- 6 dynamic weather cycles each with a different impact on invader and/or beast behaviour
- 4 different invader types, each with their own behaviour and purpose/actions
- Local and Game Center high score leaderboards
- Voiceover accessibility
- Full dark mode theme
The gameplay mechanics and rules are hidden and the intention is for them to be discovered through multiple runs. However, for those that want to jump straight in with full knowledge of the game, an in-built guide is included.
Current Version: 1.4.0 (May 29, 2025)
App Store Release Notes for May 2025 Updates
Version 1.3.2 (May 7, 2025)
- Added attack animation
- Simplified weather cycle UI to free of space for future features
- Added optional weather cycle counter
- Amended blizzard weather condition to prevent invaders building/mining
- Removed mountain tile immunity bug for Stone Strength power
- Voiceover tweaks
- SFX and visual tweaks
- Minor bug fixes
Version 1.4.0 (May 29, 2025)
New game mode! The Amalgam beast mode lets you create a custom beast. But, you will need to make its passive rules more difficult if you want to access all of the best powers. Full list of changes in 1.4 are:
- Amalgam mode
- 2 new 'beasts' to play as (Void Howler and Grief-bound Invader)
- 1 new weather condition cycle (lightening)
- Complete UI overhaul
- Simplified high score screen
- Minor bug fixes
Eldermyth's AppleVis iOS App Directory entry Eldermyth's App Store page
Eter: Streaming Internet Radio (iOS, Free with In-App Purchases)
Eter Radio is an app for listening to Internet radio stations. Eter Radio is available in a universal version for macOS, iOS, iPadOS, watchOS and tvOS.
Eter Radio uses the publicly available radio-browser.info database, which contains a collection of free and publicly available Internet radio stations. You can also add any stream by URL.
Eter for iOS, iPadOS and macOS offers a hand-crafted list of recommended stations and the ability to search radio-browser.info for other radio stations. To be able to save favorite stations, you must unlock the program with a one-time In-App Purchase. (The price in the App Store may vary depending on the country and the local currency rate). Eter on tvOS and watchOS works as a companion app. If you've upgraded to Premium, you can play your favorites on these platforms too.
Curious what that song is? You can optionally use Shazam automatic song recognition to know whatâs playing. (Available for all users.)
Enjoy unlimited listening with Eter on any Apple anything, including CarPlay, for free.
We strive to provide an outstanding internet radio experience to all users, including those using VoiceOver. If you spot shortcomings, please reach out to [email protected] so we can work together to improve things.
Upgrade Eter with a single one-time in-app purchase to:
- Save favorite stations so you donât have to search each time.
- Hide the recommended stations & just see your own list.
- View listening history and open any track in Apple Music.
- Use Eter from the Mac menu bar and hide its Dock icon (Mac only).
- Set a sleep timer to drift off to calming tunes from anywhere in the world.
- Try experimental features like streaming to a Chromecast device.
- Support the continued development of this app.
Current Version: 2.6 (May 28, 2025)
App Store Release Notes for Version 2.6 (May 28, 2025)
- A long-awaited feature for many users is finally here: the ability to open songs in Spotify.
- Weâve also added the ability to import and export your favorite station lists to and from XSPF files. This makes it easier to transfer your lists to Eter from other programs or share your list with friends so they can import your stations into their own apps.
- We've also cleaned up some detritus in the Recommended stations.
Eter's AppleVis iOS App Directory entry Eter's App Store page
PiccyBot (iOS, Free with In-App Purchases)
PiccyBot makes media accessible if you are blind or have low vision. Use PiccyBot to convert photos and videos into spoken descriptions, pose questions in the text field, and zoom in for specific details. PiccyBot answers any image or video related query with a clear calm voice.
Key Features:
- Video and Image Description: Launch PiccyBot and either use the camera or select an image or video from your gallery. PiccyBot analyzes the visual content and provides a detailed description.
- Converse with PiccyBot: Ask follow-up questions about the image or video to get more specific information like "What does this image signify?" or "What colors are in this scene?".
- Share media from apps: Instantly share photos & videos from your favorite social apps with PiccyBot. Use the share feature of your app and then select PiccyBot to share it to. PiccyBot will then process the video or image and provide the description.
- Voice Output: A clear, natural-sounding voice reads out descriptions, making it easy to understand visual content.
Unlock Premium Benefits:
- Experience PiccyBot without interruptions. Enjoy an ads-free environment.
- Enhance your image and video interpretation with personalised voice choices, adjustable description length, a selection of multiple AI engines and longer and more detailed video descriptions.
- Choose from 55 languages in the PiccyBot settings to create the description.
- Multiple Sharing Options: Share as audio only, video with audio mix, or description only.
- Audio-Video Mixing: Combine original video audio with generated audio descriptions.
Current Version: 2.20 (May 22, 2025)
App Store Release Notes for May 2025 Updates
Version 2.18 (May 7, 2025)
- Added introduction screens during the first time PiccyBot is started, explaining the main functions
- YouTube performance improved. Will now also process private videos.
- Personality voices improved. Try them out!
- Bug fixes and performance improvements
Version 2.19 (May 18, 2025)
- Previous queries (from main view) will be stored for easy repetition. These will remain available after restarting of the app. You can remove any earlier query as desired.
- Updated simplified Chinese description
- Bug fixes and performance improvements
Version 2.20 (May 22, 2025)
- Added option to enable or disabled the storing of prompts.
- Fixed the 2 seconds missing audio description while describing videos.
- Translated the app tips in multiple languages.
PiccyBot's AppleVis iOS App Directory entry PiccyBot's App Store page
Warshovel: Idle RPG (iOS, Free with In-App Purchases)
Embark on the Ultimate Idle RPG Adventure!
Discover an immersive fantasy world filled with exciting challenges, breathtaking locations, and endless opportunities to grow stronger. Whether youâre an active player or prefer the idle experience, this game offers something for everyone.
Key Features:
- Explore a Vast Fantasy World
Travel across multiple unique locations, each brimming with secrets, enemies, and treasures to uncover.- Master the Art of Crafting
Craft powerful equipment and consumables through six distinct masteries:
- Alchemy: Brew potions with magical effects
- Cooking: Prepare dishes that empower your character
- Jewelry: Create enchanted accessories
- Smithing: Forge weapons and armor
- Woodworking: Build bows and staves
- Tailoring: Sew garments and light armor
- Equip and Customize Your Hero
Find and equip powerful gear with unique stats, affixes, and rarities to create the ultimate build.- Master Elemental Skills
Learn and upgrade skills from six elemental categories: Water, Fire, Rock, Thunder, Nature, and Dark. Experiment to discover synergies that dominate the battlefield!- Join or Create a Guild
Team up with friends or lead your own guild. Build a guild camp, engage in epic battles against rival guilds, and take on enormous beasts for glorious rewards.- Real-Time Marketplace
Trade items with other players in a dynamic economy. Buy, sell, and barter your way to success.- Build Your Town
Construct a thriving town for your citizens, unlocking permanent boosts to empower your hero on every adventure.- Conquer the Mysterious Maze
Dive into an ever-changing maze to uncover rare treasures and rewards.- Battle Fearsome Enemies
Face a variety of foes, from dungeon guards to invasion bosses. Only the strongest will survive!- Level Up Your Hero
Gain experience, grow stronger, and unlock new abilities as you progress through your journey.Are you ready to forge your path in this idle RPG adventure? The world is waitingâjoin the fight now!
Current Version: 1.0.411 (May 26, 2025)
App Store Release Notes for May 2025 Updates
Version 1.0.405 (May 15, 2025)
- Pet System: Explore biomes, battle biome guards, tame unique pets, and feed them with fruits to boost their power.
- Material Shops: New shops where you can buy crafting materials directly.
- Badge Stats: Now you can see how many players have unlocked each badge.
- Sound effect fixes
- UI improvements
Version 1.0.410 (May 16, 2025)
- Accessibility improvements for materials shop and pets
- Make the Explore/Dungeon tabs accessible after starting the exploration
- Fix biome stones
Version 1.0.411 (May 26, 2025)
- Configurable auto-allocation of progress points for both player and companion
- Introduction of gem rarities to enhance collection and strategy
- Combine gems directly from the backpack using intuitive drag & drop
- Redesigned UI for guild material deposits and withdrawals
- 15 new woodworking recipes added to expand crafting possibilities
- Improved accessibility features for a more inclusive experience
Warshovel's AppleVis iOS App Directory entry Warshovel's App Store page
Recent News
Apple Previews New Accessibility Features Coming Later This Year: Accessibility Nutrition Labels, Magnifier for Mac, Braille Access Mode, and More
By AppleVis | May 13, 2025
Ahead of Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) Apple is offering a preview of accessibility features coming to its platforms later this year; including Accessibility Nutrition labels for App Store apps, Magnifier for Mac, Braille Access, and more.
AppleVis to Launch Community Bug Tracking Initiative
By AppleVis | May 15, 2025
We are excited to announce the upcoming launch of a new community bug tracking initiative at AppleVis.
Since at least 2012, AppleVis has regularly published lists of new and fixed accessibility bugs in Apple software impacting blind, DeafBlind, and low vision users. As an independent editorial organization, we see the tracking and reporting of these bugs to be one of the more impactful ways in which we live out our mission to serve and empower our community.
While our past testing and reporting efforts provided valuable information to blind, DeafBlind, and low vision users about changes in Apple software, they were always, by necessity, somewhat limited in scope. We are a small team, and our bug identification has generally been limited to our own personal devices and use cases. As we always say in our release announcements every year, it is impossible for us to test every device, configuration, and use case.
While we feel that we have done our best with what we have in our testing and reporting efforts thus far, we believe there is more that we can do with the help of the community. Today, we are excited to share details about a new initiative in this regard.
Read More: "AppleVis to Launch Community Bug Tracking Initiative"
Apple Releases iOS 18.5 and iPadOS 18.5 with Bug Fixes and Pride Harmony Wallpaper
By AppleVis | May 12, 2025
Apple has today released iOS 18.5 and iPadOS 18.5 to the public, bringing a handful of minor enhancements and bug fixes, as well as a new Pride Harmony wallpaper.
In our testing of iOS 18.5 and iPadOS 18.5, we did not identify any changes that specifically affect the experience for blind, deaf blind, or low vision users. If you notice any changes in your own use of iOS 18.5 or iPadOS 18.5, please do let us know by posting a comment.
Read More: "Apple Releases iOS 18.5 and iPadOS 18.5 with Bug Fixes and Pride Harmony Wallpaper"
Apple Releases macOS Sequoia 15.5, watchOS 11.5, tvOS 18.5, and HomePod Software 18.5
By AppleVis | May 12, 2025
Masquerade as AppleVis Apple has today released macOS Sequoia 15.5, watchOS 11.5, tvOS 18.5, and HomePod Software 18.5 to the public.
In our testing of these releases, we did not identify any changes that specifically affect the experience for blind, deaf blind, or low vision users. If you notice any changes in your own use of these releases, please do let us know by posting a comment.
Read More: "Apple Releases macOS Sequoia 15.5, watchOS 11.5, tvOS 18.5, and HomePod Software 18.5"
This Month in Podcasts
AppleVis Extra 107: Exploring Appleâs Latest Accessibility Innovations with Sarah Herrlinger
In this AppleVis Extra episode, David Nason and Thomas Domville (AnonyMouse) interview Sarah Herrlinger, senior director of Global Accessibility Policy and Initiatives at Apple. They explore Appleâs ongoing dedication to accessibility, spotlighting exciting new features designed to better support users with disabilities. The conversation covers several highlights, including Accessibility Nutrition Labels, Braille Access Mode, Magnifier for Mac, and the role of AI in accessibility enhancements.
Listen to "AppleVis Extra 107: Exploring Appleâs Latest Accessibility Innovations with Sarah Herrlinger" Read Transcript: "AppleVis Extra 107: Exploring Appleâs Latest Accessibility Innovations with Sarah Herrlinger"
Card Battles and 3D Soundscapes: Call of Fate for iOS
In this podcast, Darrell showcases Call of Fate, a free-to-play, audio-first card adventure game developed by Prudence Interactive. Designed with full accessibility in mind, the game is tailored for both blind and sighted players.
Call of Fate transports players to the fantasy world of Teyus, where they take on the role of a summoner uncovering a forgotten past.
Listen to "Card Battles and 3D Soundscapes: Call of Fate for iOS" Read Transcript: "Card Battles and 3D Soundscapes: Call of Fate for iOS"
From WAV to MP3: Audio Made Easy with VLC for the Mac
In this episode, Siddarth shares a simple, stress-free way to convert audio files using VLC Media Player â no expensive software or confusing tools required! Whether you're working with WAV, MP3, or other formats, VLC makes the process quick, free, and accessible to everyone.
Listen to "From WAV to MP3: Audio Made Easy with VLC for the Mac" Read Transcript: "From WAV to MP3: Audio Made Easy with VLC for the Mac"
Getting Started with Numbers on Mac
In this 7-part course, Gaurav walks us through and shows us how to use the Numbers spreadsheet app on Mac:
- Lesson 1 â Accessible Table Layout & Editing
- Lesson 2 - Table Formatting and Headers for Columns and Rows
- Lesson 3 - Autofill and Quick Calculation Bar
- Lesson 4 - Sort and Quick Filter
- Lesson 5 - Basic Formulas
- Lesson 6 - Autofill feature to quickly copy formulas across cells
- Lesson 7 - Understanding the concept of Tables and inserting multiple tables on a Sheet
Speed up your typing and your emoji game with text replacements on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS
In this episode, Dave Nason demonstrates how to create and use text replacements, short snippets of text which are substituted with frequently used words, sentences, or emojis when typed, on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. This may be useful if you, for example, need to frequently give people directions to your home. Rather than manually type out the directions, you could configure a text replacement so that several sentences could be inserted simply by typing a few characters of your choosing. You may also wish to use it to speed up typing longer words, or even to type emojis that you use regularly.
Listen to "Speed up your typing and your emoji game with text replacements on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS" Read Transcript: "Speed up your typing and your emoji game with text replacements on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS"
Tidy Up Instantly: The Mac Shortcut You Didnât Know You Needed
In this episode of the AppleVis podcast, Siddarth shares a quick and efficient way to organize multiple files into a single folder on a Mac using a simple shortcut. He demonstrates how to use VoiceOver to select documents around a specific topicâlike âHolistic Education Developmentââand instantly group them together by pressing Control + Command + N.
Listen to "Tidy Up Instantly: The Mac Shortcut You Didnât Know You Needed" Read Transcript: "Tidy Up Instantly: The Mac Shortcut You Didnât Know You Needed"
A Look into Alfred for Mac
In this 3-part series, Gaurav walks us through and demonstrates the Alfred app for Mac. Tailored especially for VoiceOver users, Alfred streamlines your workflow by letting you perform a wide range of tasks simply by typing, eliminating the need to navigate complex interfaces.
- Part 1 Overview of Alfred's features and functionalities
- Part 2 Guide to the settings window and overall settings
- Part 3 How to clear the trash, reboot the computer, and perform other tasks using Alfred keywords
Experience New macOS Beta Software with Confidence: Dual Boot macOS and Run Beta Software Alongside the Latest Public Release of macOS
In this episode, Levi Gobin demonstrates how to prepare your Mac for beta testing by creating a second volume on your Mac's internal disk to install and run beta versions of the operating system. This way, you can run the beta when you want, but continue to use your Mac with the current shipping version of macOS.
Listen to "Experience New macOS Beta Software with Confidence: Dual Boot macOS and Run Beta Software Alongside the Latest Public Release of macOS" Read Transcript: "Experience New macOS Beta Software with Confidence: Dual Boot macOS and Run Beta Software Alongside the Latest Public Release of macOS"
How to Password-Protect and Encrypt a Folder on Your Mac
In this practical tutorial episode, Siddharth Mahajan walks listeners through the step-by-step process of encrypting a folder on a Mac using built-in macOS tools. This episode is perfect for anyone who needs to temporarily hand over their Mac to someone else but wants to keep personal or sensitive files secure.
Listen to "How to Password-Protect and Encrypt a Folder on Your Mac" Read Transcript: "How to Password-Protect and Encrypt a Folder on Your Mac"
New Guides
Third edition of Personal Power: Getting The Most from iOS as a Totally Blind User
By Michael Feir | May 14, 2025
I'm happy to release the third edition of:
Personal Power: Getting The Most from iOS as a Totally Blind User
This book, freely available to all, was written to help totally blind people use iPhones competently and make the most of their capabilities in all possible aspects of life. From choosing and setting up your iPhone to using its capabilities and accessible apps, this book is my attempt to make it easier for blind newcomers to enjoy the benefits of this technology which has so deeply enriched my life.
To be clear, this book isn't a manual. There are plenty of step by step instructions. However, this book is more akin to a traveller's guidebook. At just over three hundred and fifty thousand words, the scope is very wide. It is as much about the journey I've been on and how iPhones have changed my life. If you're in a rush, there are certainly sections of this book which would be helpful. However, I've written this for people who are willing to take their time and learn about possibilities and experiences they might not have considered. Manuals tell you how to do things quickly and efficiently. In this book, I unapologetically take time to go beyond this and give people a wider sense of the online world they enter. I point people to accessible apps, explain the economics behind what you find and experience, outline the benefits and dangers of social media, and much more. If you're willing to take the time, you'll come away with a more wholistic sense of what's possible, why an iPhone can have the impact that it does despite being unable to see the touchscreen, and where you want to put your efforts.
This book is made available in numerous formats. The files are stored in a shared Google Drive folder. Anyone may download these files. You don't require a Google account or the Google Drive app. If you want the book in more than one format, you may find it more convenient to follow the link to the folder. From there, you can download copies of any of the files. Those who simply want one format can make use of the links provided below:
Read More: "Third edition of Personal Power: Getting The Most from iOS as a Totally Blind User"
a Deep dive into VoiceOver settings for iOS and iPadOS
By Levi Gobin | May 15, 2025
VoiceOver is Apple's screen reader, which can be found across all Apple platforms, from iPhones, iPads, Macs, iPods, etc. This guide will document how each setting in VoiceOver's settings on iOS and iPadOS affects the way VoiceOver behaves, as well as what the options do.
Read More: "a Deep dive into VoiceOver settings for iOS and iPadOS"
A Deep Dive into VoiceOver Utility On Mac
By Levi Gobin | May 28, 2025
This guide will attempt to document all of the options in VoiceOver Utility and what they do.
Read More: "A Deep Dive into VoiceOver Utility On Mac"
Don't Click It, Just Press It: A Guide to Creating Custom Keyboard Shortcuts On macOS
By Levi Gobin | May 25, 2025
Have you ever thought, "I wish there was a keyboard shortcut for that"? This guide will teach you how to create a keyboard shortcut for any option in the menu bar, under any menu, including the Apple menu.
Read More: "Don't Click It, Just Press It: A Guide to Creating Custom Keyboard Shortcuts On macOS"
Popular Topics
Below is a selection of popular topics posted to the AppleVis Forum during May 2025:
Apple-Related Posts
- what would you like to see in iOS 19?
- Very interesting article about Apple OS naming conventions starting this year
- Hive thermostat app broken again
- iPad for productivity is a mess
- The State of Screen readers in macOS
Non-Apple Posts
- Midway through 2025 and glide only Alpha 2.0?
- Talk to me honestly about what I'll be losing and what I'll be gaining from an accessibility standpoint with an android phone?
- My SightCity Impressions about NOA, a Mobility Device by Biped AI
- Wo! Google Gemini live is getting close
- Talkback 16 is roling out
All recent posts to AppleVis may be found at:
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Wishing you the best and every good thing in June and beyond,
The AppleVis Editorial Team Www.AppleVis.Com A proud member of the Be My Eyes Family
Comments
Thank you
Just wanted to say thank you once again for another great monthly round-up. I always love reading these but rarely bother to comment, but just wanted to show my appreciation. I've always missed several things in the month no matter how close an eye I keep on Applevis so these posts are always helpful.
Hopefully Be My Eyes for the Mac will be included in next month's update!
Apple crunch
Where are the podcast? I used to get it on my overcast. No more. I only got one when it came out.