Accessibility features on smartphones are essential for breaking down barriers and empowering individuals with varying needs. New tools such as magnification, high-contrast modes, live captions, Talk Back, and transcription are continuously being updated to address evolving requirements. In its quest to create inclusive technology, Samsung is reportedly developing a new captioning feature that differs from the standard OS-wide Live Caption functionality.
This upcoming feature is part of One UI 8, which is based on Android 16. While this update is not anticipated to involve a major redesign, it will focus on refining existing apps and tools, including My Files, Now Bar, Secure Folder, and split-screen multitasking. A noteworthy addition to this suite of enhancements is the ‘Call Captions’ feature.
This new tool is an adaptation of the existing Live Captions but is specifically designed for phone calls. It aims to provide a useful alternative for users who prefer not to have captions active across their entire device. The details of this feature were first uncovered by Tarun Vats, an Android and Samsung news insider.
He indicated that it has been included in One UI 8’s yet-to-be-released ZYF5 build. For context, the latest beta version, Beta 2, is labeled ZYF3, meaning the call captions feature is not currently available for beta users. The captions will show what each participant says during a call, which can be particularly beneficial for those with hearing difficulties.
Furthermore, users are advised to inform the other party about the captions being used. Unlike the broader Google Live Caption feature that overlays captions across all apps, Samsung’s targeted approach allows users to enable captions solely during calls, ensuring a more streamlined and resource-efficient experience. The feature is expected to roll out with the forthcoming One UI 8 beta.
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