Google Docs improves usability for Markdown and braille users
Google seems to love little more than constantly bringing new features to its Workplace suite, and Docs is always on the receiving end of that, recently picking up new tools for working withwatermarks,summaries, andeasilythe most important —em dashes. This week we’re checking out two of the latest tweaks, as Docs makes Markdown much more versatile, and introduces some braille improvements to make it easier for the visually impaired to navigate documents.
Docs is getting a new option toautomatically detect Markdownand enable syntax autocorrection. It will work for headings, bolding and italicizing text, and for adding links. Overall this should make for faster work in rich text documents, cutting down on the need to learn all variety of keyboard shortcuts.
In a separate update,Google announcedimprovements to braille support in Docs. Once enabled, those who need assistance through screen readers or braille displays will have an easier time understanding differences in types of content — assistive technology users will hear indicators as to when comments or highlights begin and end.
These both mark positive steps in Google’s efforts to make products and services easier for everyone to use, withGoogle’s Look to Speakand braille services presenting just two examples of its commitment to accessibility. When big names invest in such technologies to enhance inclusivity, other platforms that might be lagging behind will take notice and work on their own.
The note-taking app I should have used all along
Broader branding hints at wider paid-tier ambitions
Goodbye, text-only analysis
Boost Mobile sees changes, too
It’s time to sniff out the culprit
M3 Expressive now refreshes the chat screen
