A recent Google Pixel Super Bowl ad has sparked conversation about the importance of accessibility in technology. The ad, titled ‘Javier in Frame,’ features a blind man, played by actor Javier Kussrow, using the Guided Frame accessibility feature on his Google Pixel 8 phone to capture important moments in his life, such as selfies, his wedding day, and starting a family.

The Guided Frame feature, which uses AI and facial recognition to provide audio cues, high-contrast animations, and haptic feedback, assists individuals who are blind or have low vision in taking photos. Initially introduced in 2022 on the Google Pixel 7 for the selfie camera, it has now been expanded to include the rear camera and can recognize faces, pets, food, and some objects.

According to KR Liu, head of brand accessibility at Google, the Super Bowl ad serves to raise awareness about accessibility features for mobile phone users, which are crucial given that about one in four adults in the U.S. have a disability as of 2023, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Liu emphasizes the significance of disability representation and culture, stating that people with disabilities want to be a part of society and have the same passion as everyone else. The goal is to increase visibility and understanding of what disability truly entails.

Looking ahead, Liu believes that AI will continue to drive innovation in the accessibility space, building tools that cater to the needs of the disabled community at an accelerated pace.