GW Micro, the makers of the Window-Eyes screen reader, has teamed up with technology giant Microsoft
to offer Windows-Eyes to Microsoft Office 2010 and newer users for
free. Windows-Eyes can read elements on the screen aloud allowing the
blind, low-vision, and print disabled to have full access to their
Windows PC. Window-Eyes can also output on-screen content to a Braille
display for users who prefer Braille. This new partnership will increase
the affordability of Window-Eyes and allow more people to benefit from
its features. Window-Eyes normally costs almost $900 while Microsoft
Office costs far less. GW Micro and Microsoft believe this new
partnership will allow millions of new users to access their computers
using Window-Eyes. Rob Sinclair, Microsoft's Chief Accessibility Officer says the following about this new program,
"By partnering with GW Micro in this endeavor we are demonstrating Microsoft's onging commitment to provide all of our customers with the technology and tools to help each person be productive in both their work and personal lives."
This announcement is very significant in the world of assistive technology. This deal will allow millions of users to increase the usability of their computers for free if they already own Microsoft Office. Owners of Microsoft Office 2010 or higher can download Window-Eyes by visiting WindowEyesForOffice.com and following the instructions on screen.
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