In an open letter to Consumer Reports, Greg Trapp, President, National Council of State Agencies for the Blind. Inc. (NCSAB) urges the publication to note the access features in their product reviews.
Wireless devices such as cell phones and iPods were given as examples of technology that pose accessibility issues for people who are Blind/low vision, as well as any item with a touch screen, programmable features, menu or electronic display. Solutions like speech output or input, using tactile surfaces, and audible tones to indicate menu selections were given as examples of currently available accessibility features in consumer products. Trapp asserts that manufacturers will be encouraged to make appliances and electronic devices accessible if Consumer Reports begins to routinely report on product accessibility. He also states that this may improve usability and functionality for all people.
Source:
National Council of State Agencies for the Blind. Inc.
http://www.ncsab.org/alert/consumer_report.htm