From BusinessWeek:

Up until now, assistive technologies for people with disabilities have been focused chiefly on the workplace. The recently passed ADA Amendments Act clarifies that Americans with disabilities are also entitled to support in major life activities outside of work.

The changes are prompting the creation of devices that can help people enjoy travel, leisure and just plain old fun. It’s estimated that there is a $200 billion market of consumers eager to spend on such products.

Among the new entries: A GPS Ranger with audio and video commentary is available at some national parks for people with hearing, sight, and mobility impairments at a cost of about $15 to rent for the day, and an Apple iPod nano that has speech capability.

Larger technology providers may already have an edge — and an audience — for bringing new assistive technologies to disabled consumers. Yet the field is wide open for companies seeking a lucrative new niche in a growing market that would undoubtedly welcome more fun and games.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, December 23rd, 2008 at 2:24 pm and is filed under ADA, News_2_Use, accessibility, technology. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.