As a people-first company, we believe that the most important assets within a company are, not the tech, but the people. That’s why we are passionate about creating an environment where the entire team, no matter how they work, can be set up to thrive.
These days, neurodiversity can seem like a bit of a buzz word and we recognise that there is talent in every individual and so every single person should have the tools they need to do their best work. Both Apple and Microsoft have a wealth of accessibility tools available as standard so I’m going to break down how you can make the most of these.
Apple’s Focus Mode
We all get distracted from time to time but for someone with ADHD, they can become derailed from their focus much easier. Apple’s Focus mode, which is available on iOS, iPadOS and macOS, filters out non-essential notifications during work hours, creating a calmer and less distracting digital space.
- Set up different Focus profiles such as Work, Break, or Deep Work, with tailored app and contact permissions.
- Focus profiles sync across all Apple devices, so no chance of your watch or phone distracting you whilst you’re on your Mac!
- Pair Focus mode with Microsoft Teams’ status settings and calendar availability, so that your colleagues know when you can or cannot be disturbed.
See Apple’s guide on how to set up Focus mode here.
Dictation and Voice Control
Dyslexia, dyspraxia and other sensory sensitivities can make typing inefficient. Using voice instead can reduce fatigue and make getting information logged easier. Apple has built-in Dictation and Voice Control features to allow users to write emails, create documents and navigate their device through the use of speech.
- Enables fluid thought capture without worrying about spelling or structure.
- Allows for independence and flexibility in communication.
- Dictate into Outlook, Word or OneNote using Apple’s native tools or use Microsoft’s own Dictate feature within the apps – both work seamlessly on Apple devices.
- Apple’s Voice Control allows users to control their device using only their voice – a great option for those who rely on voice due to mobility or processing needs.
Find out more about Apple’s Voice Control feature here.
Microsoft’s Read Aloud and Immersive Reader
With Microsoft’s Immersive Reader, those with dyslexia, visual processing difficulties, ADHD, autism, or anyone who wants to read more efficiently, can adjust their reading view to filter out the “noise” and change the view to suit their needs.
- Adjust the column width, page colour, text spacing and syllable spacing to reduce visual stress and help with easy reading.
The Read Aloud feature can read text back to the user at a customisable pace, with words highlighted as they’re spoken to help with proofreading, comprehension, and focus.
- Improves information retention for those who process better by hearing rather than reading.
- Reduces cognitive fatigue, especially when dealing with dense or formal content.
For more information about Microsoft’s Immersive Reader, click here.
On Apple devices:
These features work smoothly whether you’re using a Mac, iPad, or iPhone, and paired with Apple’s VoiceOver and Spoken Content features, you can tailor the experience even further.
Apple’s Visual & Auditory Support Tools
Apple’s devices have a suite of accessibility tools, allowing users to customise their device usage as much or as little as they want, with ease; whether that is adjusting the display or using the built-in audio features to create a calmer environment.
- Use inverted colours, apply colour filters or increase the contrast to help with visual processing or sensory sensitivities
- Background sounds provide white noise, rain or ocean options to improve and reduce sensory overload.
- Guided access allows users to lock the device into a single app which can help minimise distractions and reduce decision fatigue.
Apple provides a selection of out-of-the-box features to make tech accessible to everyone.
Structure and Routine with Microsoft 365 + Apple Scheduling and Reminders
For many neurodiverse individuals, routine and structure are essential for staying on track and bringing a sense of calm and stability to their day.
- Using Outlook Calendar on Mac/iOS to create colour-coded, recurring events can give a visual structure to the day.
- Pair with Apple Reminders or Microsoft To Do to break tasks down into manageable chunks and reduce overwhelm.
- Add automated reminders with Siri or Teams for timely prompts without cognitive overload.
This hybrid system of Apple’s native scheduling features and Microsoft’s structured tools can provide clarity and consistency to reduce the mental load that comes with a full workload.
See more information on Microsoft To Do here or read more about Apple’s Reminders here.
A Culture of Support Starts With Smart Tech Choices
Technology alone won’t build an inclusive culture, but it can help lay the foundation.
By using Apple and Microsoft 365’s built-in accessibility features, you’re not just ticking a box. You’re showing that every person on your team deserves tools that work for them, not the other way around. You’re giving your users the freedom to choose how they work, in a way that suits them best.
Want to learn more?
If you’d like help with getting the most out of your Apple devices and Microsoft apps, setting up inclusive workstations or running accessibility audits, contact Inception Support on 0203 876 1103 or use our contact form here, to see how we can help.
You can find out more about Apple’s accessibility features here and Microsoft’s accessibility features here.
