Microsoft Edge: An Accessibility Overview

In recent years, while Chrome has remained a popular choice for accessible web browsing, some users have noticed a decline in its performance, particularly when using specialized extensions. In contrast, Microsoft Edge has seen significant improvements, offering a more responsive experience with built-in accessibility features that require no additional downloads or searches. Although Edge may not be as customizable as Chrome, its built-in features are sufficient for most users.

This tutorial provides a comprehensive overview of the accessibility features available in Microsoft Edge. The shortcut examples provided are for Windows, but you can find the complete list of shortcuts for both Windows and Mac by clicking here.

Accessing Accessibility Settings

To access the accessibility settings in Edge, navigate to Settings and more > Settings > Accessibility.

Enlarge Text

To enlarge text, you can manually adjust the zoom level in the settings or use keyboard shortcuts:

Read Aloud

Edge can read web content aloud. To activate this feature, right-click on an open web page and select Read aloud.

Immersive Reader

Immersive Reader not only reads content aloud but also displays highlighted text in a clean, distraction-free window. Access this feature by clicking Enter Immersive Reader from the address bar or using the shortcut:

Generate Image Descriptions

For users with visual impairments, image descriptions provide context to the content they are reading. Enabling this feature will cause Edge to automatically generate descriptions for unlabeled images on any website.

High Visibility Outline

The high visibility focus indicator outlines any element you focus on in black and white, aiding users with visual impairments.

Keyboard Surfing

Using the keyboard to browse the web is efficient and beneficial for users with mobility challenges. Key shortcuts include:

Caret Browsing

Caret browsing allows you to navigate using only your cursor.

High Contrast

This feature changes the color scheme of your web page to a high contrast palette, making it easier to read.

Caption Customization

Edge can close caption certain sites, enhancing web usability without sound. These options can be managed through Settings and more > Settings > Accessibility.

 

By Mohammad Zaripour