Google has been enhancing accessibility options in the Android mobile operating system. These features cater to individuals who may have difficulties using phones traditionally. “Switch Access” is a notable feature allowing users to navigate their Android phones using external peripherals. With the latest Android update, users can now control their phones using facial expressions.
The recent update to the Android Accessibility Suite on Android 12 Pixel phones introduces “Camera Switch.” This novel feature enables users to interact with their phone screens solely through facial expressions. Users can either associate specific facial expressions with apps or assign different expressions for various controls on their Android devices.
Beta Android accessibility feature uses facial expressions to control your phone https://t.co/l9EuccxFJE pic.twitter.com/6L5dbBneUc
— The Verge (@verge) August 16, 2021
The “Camera Switch” feature can recognize expressions like open mouth, raised eyebrows, or smiling, among others, for various controls. Users need to program these expressions for scrolling, clicking, and pausing functions. A notification informs users when the camera is actively scanning. However, prolonged use of this feature may impact battery life slightly. Currently, Camera Switch is exclusive to Android 12 phones, with reports of some functionality on Android 11 devices under specific conditions.
