An evaluation of the iPod Touch as an alternative low-vision magnifier for people with low vision

Abstract

This study evaluated the feasibility of using the iPod Touch as an alternative low-vision magnifier by comparing its usability issues, subjective ratings, and preferences with those of two existing low-vision magnifiers (SmartView Pocket and Amigo). Thirty participants (30-91 years) performed magnification adjustment tasks and reading tasks using three devices and rated the devices based on ease of use, ease of understanding, and satisfaction. The results show 60% of the participants preferred the pinch zoom gesture and 66% preferred the scrolling one-finger gesture on the iPod Touch. This high user preference data indicate participants' acceptability of finger gestures, which suggests new opportunities for the adoption of new technology for low-vision video magnifiers. The gesture interfaces may be a promising method for magnification and navigation for low-vision users. © 2013 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.