In a crowdsourcing effort, the Smithsonian last year began inviting visitors to provide audio descriptions on mobile devices of the nearly 137 million objects in its collection — an example of how measures primarily to help people with disabilities can often benefit the public.
This will provide screen readers with the information they need to provide audio descriptions of objects found within photos as the user scrolls through their feed.
The channel had previously been found in breach of Ofcom's code for failing to provide audio descriptions in 2011 despite a target of 3% of programmes.
In accommodating non-visual audiences for dance performances, it's typical to provide audio descriptions offering technical details about the dancer's movement.
ESPN's new target for providing audio description last year was 8% of programmes, however only 2.3% of its content met the requirement.
The $1500 first place went to Eyes and Ears, a video service aimed at making information within video more widely accessible, both by translating it for those who don't speak the language in a video, and by providing audio descriptions of a scene's content for people with visual impairments.
The app then provides audio descriptions and directions (e.g. turn left and then walk forward until you reach the escalator) to the user, so that they can navigate their way safely around the station.
In conjunction with CBC Television, the network provided audio descriptions and simulcasts of coverage of events such as the wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton, the 2011 federal election, the 2011 Gemini Awards, Canada Day festivities in Ottawa in 2012, and the 32nd Genie Awards.
Beacons are even in Lighthouse vending machines, where they provide an audio description of what's in each slot.
