While many people associate assistive technology with specialized devices that are expensive or hard to find, many mainstream technology devices have started supporting accessibility features and built-in assistive technology that can make specialty tools more financially and publicly accessible for all. Even though these devices have decreased in price over the years, it is important for uses to protect their devices from damage by choosing appropriate device cases and covers that can minimize damage to the device while also making it easier to use. Here are features to consider when choosing device covers and cases for users with vision loss, as part of my ongoing Mainstream Technology and Low Vision post series.
Types of device cases and covers
For the purposes of this post, there are two types of device cases and covers; ones that are designed for transport or storage that are removed when a device is in use, and ones that remain on the device while in use. An example of a case used for storage might be a laptop sleeve for a backpack, which is removed when the laptop is in use. Phone cases and tablet cases on the other hand typically remain on the device in some capacity and are not removed to use a device.
Related links
- Choosing A Backpack With Low Vision
- Mainstream Technology and Low Vision: Tablets
- Mainstream Technology and Low Vision: Smartphones
Determining the amount of coverage needed
Some device cases and covers leave device buttons, camera lenses, and charging ports exposed at all times, while others provide either complete coverage of buttons or attachments that can be used to cover/uncover areas of the device when needed. In the case of phone cases and tablet cases, the screen and its surrounding frame may remain exposed, with the case only covering the back and sides of the device. Depending on the level of protection needed, users may prefer a case that completely encloses the device, though it’s vital to ensure that they can still press buttons without exerting significant amounts of force or hindering performance with biometric functions.
Related links
- How To Create A Custom Android Home Screen With Microsoft Launcher
- Why Everyone Should Design For Chiari Malformation: My Talk At ID24 2020
Choosing a case material
Just like there are many styles of cases, there are a wide variety of case materials on the market, including flexible cases made from silicone and more rigid cases made from hard plastic, rubber, or similar materials. Silicone cases are often considered easier to grip and hold, but can attract debris or stretch out over time and require replacements. Hard plastic cases can offer additional durability and maintain their shape, but slick surfaces can be more difficult to grasp, and poorly made cases may come apart when dropped. Users should consider how often they are prone to dropping their devices while also ensuring the case is not uncomfortably bulky or difficult to hold.
Wood cases are not ideal for individuals with visual impairments due to their slick surface and decreased device protection.
Adding a glass screen protector
Tempered glass screen protectors are a low-cost option for protecting touch screen devices from drops, cracks, and scratches. In most situations where the glass protector sustains damage, the user can replace the previous glass protector with a new one without affecting the original touch screen on the device, unless more severe damage to the device has taken place. Glass protectors generally do not affect touch screen performance, though many smartphones and tablets have introduced screen protector modes in their settings menu which can make it easier to use the screen.
Glass screen protectors are designed to fit individual phone/tablet models and may require sighted assistance for application.
Choose colors that pop against common surfaces
When choosing a colored case or cover, it is important to ensure that it provides adequate contrast against common surfaces and does not blend into surrounding areas that can make it more difficult to locate if the device is misplaced or set down on a similarly colored surface. For example, a white phone case may be more challenging to locate visually if it is on a white desk or blanket, while a gray or black tablet case may blend into car seats or dark interiors of a backpack.
Examples of common surfaces to consider include:
- Desk
- Nightstand or side table
- Bed
- Floor surfaces at home, school, and/or work
- Bathroom and kitchen counters
- Inside of backpack, purse, or other carrying cases
- Couch or common seating areas
- Car upholstery or other transit seat colors
While it is difficult to choose a color that will stand out in all environments, it can be helpful to think of whether common areas skew towards having lighter colors or darker colors, so that users can choose an option that will “pop” against these surfaces.
Related links
- High Contrast and Low Vision
- Lighting And Low Vision
- How I Use My Phone As Assistive Technology In Class
- How I Decorate My Dorm Room With Low Vision
Solid color vs patterned cases
While patterned cases can provide additional personalization compared to solid colors, individuals with some types of low vision and/or neurological visual impairment (also known as cortical visual impairment, cerebral visual impairment, or CVI) may find it more difficult or disorienting to look at patterned items due to visual clutter. Preferred colors that are easy to identify and spot in the environment should be prioritized over patterned designs in these contexts.
Select grips or stands to help with positioning
Many individuals with low vision benefit from having slanted or adjustable angled displays for tablets to help with reading or positioning, especially as they may be tempted to lean in closely to view things or adjust their head position to read through bifocals. In the case of cell phones, options for one-handed use or grips can also serve as a stand on a flat surface, or as a gripping aid when using the device while traveling (e.g. talking on the phone, using GPS, accessing visual assistance apps). Device cases such as folio cases or keyboard cases offer adjustable display angles for tablets, while phone cases may have built-in stands or adjustable rings that can rest in the hand. Another option is to attach removable grips for smartphones, which can make it easier to hold the phone at a comfortable angle and serve as a makeshift stand.
A different strategy for keeping devices protected and in an easy-to-access location is to consider crossbody cases, which keep the screen “exposed” so that the user can still access their device, while minimizing the risk of the device being dropped.
Related links
Choosing cases with additional accessories
Some device cases and covers come with additional functionalities such as battery packs for charging, additional lights or camera lenses, or storage for identification cards/credit cards in wallet-style cases. These types of cases often create additional bulk that may make the device more awkward to grasp, or introduce safety concerns such as battery packs overheating or essential cards being misplaced or falling out of slots. In these situations, peripheral accessories such as portable battery packs or wallets that also support phone storage may be more preferable.
Related links
Adding tactile labels to devices
To aid with device identification, tactile labels or decorations can make it easier for users to locate their phones, add personalization, or make it easier to identify similar devices. Cases with raised details or patterns are one option, while others may prefer to add braille labels with their name, favorite quote, or other decorative text. Tactile labels may also be used to label charging ports or other key areas of the device.
Make sure the case can fit in pockets
When choosing a phone case with low vision, it’s critical to make sure the phone and its case can fit comfortably and securely in the user’s pocket, purse/backpack, or other storage area so that it does not fall out or protrude uncomfortably. Even though tablets and laptops are less likely to be transported in pockets, the case should still comfortably fit around the device when it is being carried and help protect the device from shifting or movement during transit.
Summary of features to consider when choosing a phone case with low vision or other device cases/covers
- Purpose of the device case or cover: Is it being used to protect the device only when not in use, or should it remain on the device at all times?
- Amount of coverage needed: Cases and covers may cover only the back of a device and leave buttons exposed, while others may cover buttons and charging ports. If buttons are covered, ensure they can still be pressed comfortably without exerting too much pressure.
- Choosing a case material: Silicone and hard plastic cases can provide protection from accidental drops and spills. Silicone cases are easier to grip, while hard plastic retains its shape more easily. Wood cases and slick textures should be avoided.
- Screen protector: Adding a tempered glass screen protector can help to protect touch screen devices from damage without affecting performance.
- Case color: Device should “pop” against common surface colors to aid in visual location. This can include bedding, tabletops, floors, counters, car seats, and other furniture.
- Solid color vs patterned color: Some people with low vision or neurological visual impairment (CVI) may prefer solid colored cases over patterned ones due to visual clutter.
- Grips and stands: Device grips and stands may be built into a case or attached separately, and can make devices easier to use and adjust.
- Additional accessories: Some device cases offer built-in batteries, storage for ID cards and credit cards, and other “smart” features. However, these may create unwanted bulk or pose safety risks, so separate peripheral accessories (e.g. battery pack) may be preferred.
- Tactile labels: For visually impaired and dual media users, cases with raised or tactile details provide additional options for identification and personalization. Braille labels can also be attached to cases.
- Case size: Make sure the device case can comfortably fit in the user’s pocket without slipping or protruding.
Published July 23, 2019. Updated November 2024