I was thinking about how hard it must be for disabled users who want to try online dating. Most of the apps are purely visual and rely on swiping left and right to create connections. Some newer apps encourage users to FaceTime, but are still built around static profiles and messaging.
One idea I had to make dating apps more accessible is for users to create video introductions that start playing without audio to encourage the videos to be understood purely visually or auditory depending on preference and user ability. The user would be able to signal the device they are interested and send a personal video back. There could even be accessible commands implemented into the app like covering the camera to delete and record a new video, or shaking the device to show they aren’t interested.
Another idea I had for an accessible dating app was to invite users to create their own experience or world that others would be able to access. This experience could feature someone’s favorite song, a recording of them introducing themselves, and almost like a blog; a customized visual experience that includes various media of personal favorites to convey someone’s interests and personality.
I definitely think it is easy for designers to overlook disabled users and oftentimes ignore their needs as it adds a bit of challenge and constraint, however I also think it is a very beneficial way of looking at a product or software through a completely different perspective that doesn’t assume a user’s abilities. After watching the videos and reflecting on my own designs, I think a future that is less text and content on a static screen would be better for all. I believe the future of technology should incorporate more senses and meet users out in their world rather than force them into one through a screen.
