Google are currently running experiments to help make using the number one search engine more accessible with two new experiments running in Google labs.
Keyboard shortcuts: A Keyboard shortcut is a new way to navigate Google and its search results without using a mouse. Although there are only five on offer at the moment they are sure to increase as Google gets feedback from users. The shortcuts currently in use are as follows:
j-Allows you to select the next result
k -Allows you to select previous results
o and <Enter>-Will open the selected result
/ – Will move the cursor into the search box
<Esc> – Removes the cursor from the search box
These shortcuts will not just help users with motor impairments but also many people who love to us short-cuts (me being one).
Accessible View: This is similar to the shortcuts experiment, but based on a selection this will magnify the results, and if you are using a screen reader or a talking browser the results will be spoken to you, very handy indeed. This seems great; however we did experience some issues getting this work correctly. In particular the H an l key that move you from the next and previous categories – this is supposed to move you from results, sponsored links, refinements. It didn’t make it all that clear to which category you were actually on. In addition to the shortcut keys above, the accessible view has these further keys.
Click to see full size image
n – Moves to the next result, and fetches more results if necessary.
P – Moves to the previous result, reloading earlier results if necessary.
= – Magnifies current item
- Shrinks current item
A – Switches to Accessible Search Results
W – Switches to regular Web Search Results
l or RIGHT – Moves to the next category (results, sponsored links, refinements).
h or LEFT -Moves to the previous category (results, sponsored links, refinements).
This will surely help people with disabilities use Google more effectively, and although this is just an experiment at the moment, if people do find this helpful then I’m sure it will be more readily available. If you would like to try these new accessibility features from Google and give your feedback then you can join in the experiments at Google labs now.
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