Draft:Accessible QR

Accessible QR is a type of QR code that combines a standard QR code with a dot-dash pattern positioned around one corner of the code to provide product information for people who are blind and partially sighted. The codes, announce product categories and product details such as instructions, ingredients, safety warnings, and recycling information. The data is structured for the needs of users who are blind or partially sighted and offers larger text or audio output. It can read QR codes from a metre away, activating the smartphone's accessibility features like VoiceOver to announce product details.

The codes make product information accessible to people with varying levels of visual acuity. Sighted users can scan the codes using a smartphone camera or QR code readers. In contrast, blind and partially sighted users can use apps to receive tailored product information.

Technology
An accessible QR code represents an enhanced form of the traditional QR code, distinguished by an integrated pattern known as a "D3 code" (denoted by its distinctive dot-dot-dash pattern). This pattern is placed around one corner on one side of the code. The primary enhancement of these accessible QR codes is their design consideration for individuals with visual impairments, including those who are blind or have low vision.

When scanned, these QR codes interact with the device's configured accessibility settings, enabling the presentation of information in more accessible formats. This includes options such as larger text displays for those with visual impairment or audio descriptions and voice-guided assistance for the blind. Such adaptations make the information contained in QR codes more universally accessible and user-friendly.

The codes can be read by accessibility apps like Be Me Eyes and Microsoft SeeingAI and are currently being used on Unilever brand packaging for some Persil products and other healthcare products in the UK.