Google bringing HTML5 speech input support to Chrome

Google today announced in a blog post that it is bringing support for the HTML5 speech input API to the company’s Chrome browser.

The API allows web developers to incorporate speech-to-text transcription in their apps. Users with a microphone will be able to record their speech, have it sent to a transcription server, and show up as text within the web app.

Support for the speech input API will give developers the tools they need to introduce amazing new features in a variety of web apps, but it also has ramifications for accessibility.

While most users who are unable to type are already using desktop software to dictate computer commands, speech input-enabled web apps could help disabled users enjoy cloud computing the way the able-bodied do by imposing fewer restrictions on which machines they can or can’t use when they’re out and about.

Speech input support is available in the Chrome beta from today.