Conclusion
This project taught me that simplifying copy and making it clearer can significantly help users who may already feel confused or overwhelmed, especially those with hearing impairments. I also learned the value of writing with empathy and making settings more understandable by offering contextual guidance, such as clear labels or supportive microcopy. When working on digital products like Spotify, it’s crucial to consider how different users experience the same interface differently, and how thoughtful language can bridge that gap.
Questions
Does enabling this setting affect music quality for non-impaired users in a negative way?
Is this setting meant exclusively for people with hearing impairments, or can anyone use it?
How does enabling this setting technically affect the audio, does it compress, equalize, or adjust frequencies dynamically?
What is the exact location of this “Kualitas Audio” toggle, is it on the general Settings page or under a specific section like “Accessibility”?
Is there any existing description under the toggle, or is it currently blank?
Should we consider visual or icon support to enhance understanding?
Empathy Map
People with hearing impairments tend to prefer clear instructions. Technical terms like “22 kbit/seconds” could confuse them unless explained in relatable, simple language. They may also appreciate reassurance that activating the toggle is reversible and beneficial for them.
Secondary Research
Benchmark references:
Google Chrome has Accessibility settings with short, clear explanations
YouTube uses tooltip like: “Subtitles/closed captions” and others.
Apple’s Accessibility uses plain language: “Make the left and right speakers play the same content.”
Options
Option 1 (Recommended)
English
Activate to the lowest frequency so it’s clearer and more comfortable for people with hearing difficulties.
Bahasa Indonesia
Aktifkan pengaturan ke frekuensi terendah agar lebih jelas dan nyaman untuk didengar bagi penderita gangguan pendengaran.
Option 2
English
Helps adjust sound to a frequency level that’s easier to hear. Recommended for users with hearing impairments.
Bahasa Indonesia
Membantu menyesuaikan suara ke tingkat frekuensi yang lebih mudah didengar. Direkomendasikan untuk pengguna dengan gangguan pendengaran.
Background
In March 2022, Spotify product team conducted a Usability Testing session to a group of people in South Jakarta who have been actively using Spotify since January 2022. Interestingly, these people have hearing impairments and were looking to find ways to make their streaming experience smooth. However, when asked about this Settings page, they were confused about the “Kualitas Audio” / “Audio Quality” section. They didn’t know what to do or how it would affect their hearing. That’s why the product team needs to educate them about its function and impact.
User Story
As someone with hearing impairments, I want to know what this “Kualitas Audio” / “Audio Quality'' means, so that I can activate the toggle with a well-informed decision.
Product Intent
Educate the user that this toggle is to equalize the song’s frequency up to 22 kbit/seconds, which is the lowest frequency for hearing and is most recommended for auditory-impaired people.
Tone Attributes
Straightforward
Activating the toggle leads to..
No page. It will turn into green, meaning it’s active.
The back arrow leads to..
Spotify homepage.
Overview
Spotify is a popular music streaming platform that allows users to listen to millions of songs and podcasts. This project was part of an assignment from the JayJay UX Writing course, where I focused on analyzing and improving the content in the audio quality settings, particularly for users with hearing impairments. The work involved identifying unclear copy, simplifying language, and crafting inclusive content to enhance accessibility and user experience.