Screen Reader Detection via Modified Web Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods fail to accurately detect screen reader usage by users, as screen readers operate independently of browsers and cannot be distinguished from other accessibility tools, limiting website operators' ability to design for accessibility based on user data.
Innovation Solution
A method that modifies screen reader functionality by disabling original readable text and associating elements with modified readable text, requiring specific user inputs to indicate screen reader usage, allowing detection and potential actions to be performed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional detection methods (MSAA layer, Flash Technique) are used, then screen reader usage can be detected in limited cases, but the method cannot distinguish between screen readers and other accessibility tools, and is limited to specific platforms
Solution Approach 1:
The webpage is segmented into multiple elements, each with unique modified readable text. This segmentation allows the system to track which specific elements are read by screen readers, improving detection precision while maintaining broad compatibility across different accessibility tools and platforms.
Solution Approach 2:
Modified readable text serves as an intermediary marker that screen readers encounter during navigation. By embedding these unique text markers in webpage elements, the system indirectly detects screen reader usage without requiring direct interaction with the screen reader software itself, thus achieving cross-platform compatibility.
2Measurement precision
If screen reader functionality is modified with unique readable text, then screen reader usage can be detected, but the webpage structure and accessibility functionality must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-modifying webpage elements with unique readable text markers before the user visits the site. This preparation ensures that when screen readers encounter these elements, detection can occur automatically without requiring complex real-time modifications or additional system complexity during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The modified readable text serves multiple functions: it maintains accessibility for screen reader users by providing readable content, while simultaneously serving as a detection marker for the system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate detection mechanisms, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
3Loss of information
If website operators implement detection methods, then they can obtain screen reader usage data, but users may require authorization or notification which reduces accessibility
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system operates autonomously by analyzing interactions with modified webpage elements. It does not require user authorization, notification, or any additional user actions beyond normal webpage interaction. This self-service approach allows the system to gather screen reader usage data while maintaining full accessibility and ease of operation for users.
Data Source
AI summary
The presently disclosed subject matter includes a computerized method and computerized system, which enables to detect usage of a screen reader, by modifying screen reader functionality of elements in a webpage.