Neko
Supreme Overlord
Dec 30, 2003, 8:29 PM
Post #1 of 1
(2247 views)
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HAUPPAUGE, NY December 18, 2003 - Audiovox Communications Corp., a majority owned subsidiary of Audiovox Corporation (Nasdaq: VOXX), and a leading provider of mobile phones, announced today that it has reached a settlement of litigation with Dr. Bonnie O’Day concerning the accessibility features of Audiovox mobile telephone equipment. In a formal complaint filed with the FCC last February, Dr. O’Day, who has impaired vision, had contended that Audiovox mobile telephone equipment was not accessible to people with visual disabilities to the extent required by the Telecommunications Act of 1996. As a result of the settlement, in which Audiovox does not admit any violation of law, the parties have moved to have the complaint dismissed.
The specific terms of the settlement are confidential. The parties did disclose, however, that Audiovox is making a number of significant improvements. For example, Audiovox’s 9900 series, which is to be released during December, provides a more accessible keypad and audible announcement of certain visually displayed information, such as dialed and incoming phone numbers battery power, and roaming status. In addition, the company will make instruction manuals and other information more user friendly for blind and low vision individuals, will develop an accessibility plan for its website, and will undertake additional employee training on disability issues. The company is currently assessing additional, more advanced speech output capabilities for its mobile handsets with a view toward incorporating these capabilities in the future. Dr. O’Day hailed the settlement, stating, “I filed the complaint because blind and low vision people were frustrated with the pace of progress achieved by the wireless industry. Audiovox’s commitment in this settlement, however, makes them a leader in providing wireless access to blind and visually impaired consumers.”
Audiovox’s President and CEO, Philip Christopher, added that “As wireless technology evolves and our industry provides enhanced communications capability to 150 million wireless subscribers in North America, it is important to improve wireless access for the 10 million Americans who have visual impairments. That’s why Audiovox is taking seriously its commitment to implementation of Section 255 of the Telecommunications Act and our efforts to add value to these subscribers’ wireless experience.”
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