Guide for using the new WhatsApp Desktop interface with Screen Readers

[Mujtaba Merchant]

Dear All,

 

I have recently received a guide designed to help screen reader users navigate the new WhatsApp Desktop interface. While the document is not exhaustive, it serves as a very helpful starting point for orienting yourself with the recent changes.

 

Based on my initial experience, I would like to share a few tips and observations that might assist you:

Getting Started and Navigation

To navigate the core areas of the application, I have found the following methods most effective:

• Searching Contacts/Chats: Use Ctrl + F to move focus directly to the "Search or start new chat" edit field.

• Accessing the Chat List: Use Ctrl + 1 to jump focus to your list of active chat messages.

 

Important Notes on the Guide

• Keyboard Shortcuts: Please be cautious when using the keyboard shortcuts listed in the table on the final page of the document. Some may behave inconsistently depending on your specific screen reader settings.

• Managing Messages: The document includes instructions for more complex tasks, such as selecting multiple messages within a chat to Forward or Delete them. Please note that I have not personally tested these specific steps yet, so your feedback on their effectiveness would be valuable.

• Missing Information: One notable omission in the guide is the process for @ mentioning a contact within a Group Chat. I will share updates on this once I have a reliable method.

 

I hope this helps you get back up to speed with the application. I have attached the guide to this email for your reference.

P.S. I am always on Focus mode, on the application/ switch to Browse mode when required.

 

Sincerely,

 

Mujtaba Merchant

Bangalore | INDIA

Mail: mujt...@gmail.com

Website: The Somebody, Nobody, Anybody & Everybody Blog!

Sent from Outlook ® for Windows 10