Unity developers can now tap into system screen reader tools on macOS and Windows

Unity Developers Score Big with Native Screen Reader Support on macOS and Windows In a major breakthrough for game accessibility, Unity has rolled out native screen reader support for both macOS and Windows in its latest alpha release. This move is expected to make it easier and cheaper for developers to create games that are accessible to blind players. The feature, available now in the Unity 6000.3.0a5 alpha, allows developers to tap into system screen readers on both operating systems, eliminating the need for custom-built solutions. According to Can I Play That?, a leading accessibility consultant, this development is a game-changer for the industry. "Having it in-engine can mean the heavy lifting is done for you, and the cost of resources now is significantly lower," said Steve Saylor, an accessibility expert. Unity's decision to integrate native screen reader support comes after years of working with developers to improve game accessibility. The company previously offered APIs for Android and iOS' built-in screen readers in its Unity 6.0 release but had yet to add support for Windows Narrator or macOS VoiceOver. With this new alpha, developers creating games with Unity will have access to a native solution that can help them reach a wider audience. The impact of this development is expected to be significant, particularly for blind and low-vision players who rely on screen readers to navigate games. According to the World Health Organization, over 285 million people worldwide live with visual impairments, making accessibility in gaming a pressing issue. While some developers have expressed concerns about the added complexity of implementing native screen reader support, Saylor believes that this move will ultimately benefit the industry as a whole. "Building something like that from scratch has to be decided upon early in development so you have the necessary resources allocated," he said. "Having it in-engine can mean the heavy lifting is done for you." The Unity 6000.3.0a5 alpha is currently available, and the feature is expected to make its way into the full release of Unity 6.3. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, this development marks a significant step forward in making games more accessible to all players. In related news, Unity has announced plans to continue working with accessibility experts to improve game accessibility across its platform. The company's commitment to inclusion and diversity is expected to have a lasting impact on the gaming industry as a whole. *Reporting by Engadget.*