prioritizing accessibility and diversity in our latest Moto App update

At Motorola, we have always been committed to providing meaningful technology to all. From big innovations like pocketable, foldable displays to small innovations like customizable software experiences, we’re constantly looking for ways to meet each of our consumers’ needs by designing products for all. This “design for all” mentality is also the reason behind our most recent Moto App update, which brings some new accessibility friendly and DEI focused elements. 

The Moto App is an engaging platform where users can find all the features that make Motorola phones so easy and enjoyable to use. Inside the app, users can find Moto Actions (like Twist for Quick Capture and Chop twice for flashlight), Moto Tips and other features that let them customize the way they interact with their device. Knowing how important of a role the Moto App plays in helping users to learn and understand the full capabilities of their Motorola smartphone, we wanted to make sure every user could easily access and digest the detailed information included in the application. 

In the latest Moto App update, users can find a number of improvements designed to do just that: 

Design and Display of Information: Using the Google Accessibility Scanner app as a tool and guide, we’ve redesigned how we display information so that users can better see, read and understand the content. We’ve increased text sizes, carefully selected colors and contrast, simplified controls, and made labels more precise and concise. With these visual updates, we’re hoping to improve the overall Motorola smartphone experience. 

Visibility of Accessibility Tools: Instead of duplicating the great things Google does with Android, we choose to build upon it to enhance our consumers’ mobile experience. One example of this is the built-in accessibility settings that come with an Android device like font & display size, color or motion adjustments, and screen readers. By adding a new Moto Tip focused entirely on Android Accessibility and where to find these great tools, our focus is to bring more awareness and visibility to the features.

Representation: Those familiar with our Moto App, know we’ve always included animated cartoons of people using our devices to help better illustrate the tools available on Motorola devices. In the interest of making sure everyone feels represented, we have updated the stylings, features and expressions of our cartoons. “When we approached the updated illustration style, we chose to use the character’s choice of styling (e.g., clothing, accessories, etc.), body features (e.g., hairstyle, proportions, etc), and attitude (e.g., body language, facial expressions, etc.) to define diversity,” said Tim Schavitz, Visual Design Manager at Motorola.

Going forward, we’re excited to continue to update our Moto App experience to better meet all the expectations and needs of our consumers. To do so, we will continue to collect and listen to feedback from our customers as well as put into place an Accessibility Champions Committee. This committee’s entire focus will be to audit our products, identify areas for improvement, and provide valuable inputs so that we can continue to focus on designing technology for all. 

The latest Moto App update is now available on the Google Play Store and will be preloaded on all future Motorola devices.

Legal Disclaimers
Certain features, functionality and product specifications may be network dependent and subject to additional terms, conditions, and charges. All are subject to change without notice. MOTOROLA, Stylized M Logo, MOTO and the MOTO family of marks are trademarks of Motorola Trademark Holdings, LLC. Google and Android are trademarks of Google LLC. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. © 2020 Motorola Mobility LLC. All rights reserved.