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Immersive Accessibility

Project description

DEENESFRITPL

Breaking barriers in immersive media

In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, immersive media is taking the world by storm. As technology introduces head-mounted displays and cameras, broadcasters are venturing into storytelling that is both immersive and captivating. However, the exploitation of these technologies is still in its infancy, neglecting the vital aspect of inclusivity. In this context, the EU-funded ImAc project aims to integrate accessibility services seamlessly into immersive media. By prioritising accessibility throughout the design, production, and delivery process, it will break free from the constraints of current technology. With innovative deployment methods for services like audio description, subtitling and sign language, the project will pave the way for an immersive future that embraces individuals of all languages, ages and abilities.

Objective

Advances in technology have led to the availability of consumer Head Mounted Displays and the availability of 360° cameras for capturing immersive content. This has enabled broadcasters to explore new experiences, where narrative and content can be delivered with a heightened sense of presence and engagement, regardless of whether the user is fully immersed, using multiple screens, or via traditional television. Exploitation of these technologies is still in its infancy and innovators are producing ground-breaking content for early adopters. With any new technology it is essential to consider accessibility especially in Europe, where e-inclusion is a priority of the EC and the Single Digital Market. Doing so ensures that the narrative is coherent across languages, ages and abilities, and ensures compliance with regulatory guidelines.

The goal of Immersive Accessibility (ImAc) is to explore how accessibility services can be integrated with immersive media. It is not acceptable that accessibility is regarded as an afterthought: rather it should be considered throughout the design, production and delivery process. ImAc will explore new deployment methods for these services (Subtitles, Audio Description, Audio Subtitling, Sign Language) in immersive environments. We will move away from the constraints of the current technology, into a Hyper-Personalized environment where the consumer can fully customize the experience to meet his personal needs. For example, it may be more appropriate for subtitles to be read out-loud or the Audio Description presented as text. The key action in ImAc will be to ensure immersive experiences are inclusive across different languages, addressing the needs of those with hearing and low vision problems, learning difficulties and the aged. We also foresee these services consumed by a wider audience, for personal convenience, learning language and language therapy - accessible content can add significant value to these related areas.

Fields of science

Programme(s)

Topic(s)

Call for proposal

H2020-ICT-2016-2017

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Sub call

H2020-ICT-2016-2

Funding Scheme

IA - Innovation action

Coordinator

FUNDACIO PRIVADA I2CAT, INTERNET I INNOVACIO DIGITAL A CATALUNYA
Net EU contribution
€ 469 937,50
Address
CALLE GRAN CAPITA 2-4, EDIFICI NEXUS I
08034 Barcelona
Spain

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Region
Este Cataluña Barcelona
Activity type
Research Organisations
Links
Total cost
€ 469 937,50

Participants (8)

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Last update: 4 September 2022

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Permalink: https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/761974

European Union, 2024