After a prolonged legal battle, Redbox kiosks across the country may soon become accessible.
A [settlement between Redbox and Carlson Lynch Sweet Kilpela & Carpenter LLP](https://nfb.org/images/nfb/publications/bm/bm17/bm1708/bm170815.htm] provides for most Redbox kiosk units in the country to be made accessible through a keypad and spoken instructions by October 30, 2020. This follows an agreement reached between Redbox and the San Francisco Lighthouse which requires Redbox to do the same for California residents.
The nationwide settlement means potential improvements for Redbox and is a vast departure from the original proposed settlement.
A January 2016 version of the settlement offered a less amiable solution for blind users of kiosks and was eventually modified due to objections by consumers. From the original text:
Source: Braille MonitorThe settlement requires Redbox to modify at least one of its Kiosks at each retail location where kiosks are located in all 50 states except California so that they are fully accessible to, and usable by, blind individuals. The modifications will include the addition of a standard headphone jack which will provide access to audio instructions regarding how to call a specially-trained Redbox customer service representative who will remotely assist the consumer.
The current version mandates that most Redbox kiosks will become accessible by 2020 and accessible locations will be listed on their website. The remote assistance option will be available for kiosks that are not made accessible.
Redbox has over 40,000 kiosks in locations across the U.S., largely in or near grocery and convenience stores.
Those wishing to object to the settlement may do so by October 9, 2017. Check the source link for more information.
Note: Though this item was printed in the NFB's Braille Monitor, they are not involved in this litigation.
Category: News
No one has commented on this post.
You must be logged in to post comments.
Or Forgot username or password?
Register for free
J.J. Meddaugh is an experienced technology writer and computer enthusiast. He is a graduate of Western Michigan University with a major in telecommunications management and a minor in business. When not writing for Blind Bargains, he enjoys travel, playing the keyboard, and meeting new people.
