New VoiceThread interface coming this summer!
Enhanced Voicethread Experience Heading link
On Sunday, June 30, 2024, VoiceThread will unveil a new interface. The new VoiceThread experience will feature a cleaner, more intuitive design alongside full accessibility compliance, ensuring an enhanced user experience for all. Below, we outline the exciting features and changes you can anticipate.
New features
- Bulk comment management options
- Audio descriptions of slides
- One conversation view
- Zooming and panning while commenting
- Option to sort VoiceThreads by “most recently active”
- Compact list of all VoiceThreads in the home page sidebar
- Media sources included in the slide upload options inside an open VoiceThread
- Ability to jump to another slide while commenting without having to flip through them sequentially
- View assignment thumbnails in the course view
Key Changes
- New version is fully accessible, so VT Universal is no longer necessary
- Comment button moved to the left side of the page
- Slide navigation buttons moved to the left side of the page
- Increased visibility for closed captions
- Comments timelines appear inside the comment window, not at the bottom of the thread
- CC button moved to the bottom-right corner of the page
Legacy VoiceThread experience
- The comment fan sits in the bottom middle of the VoiceThread.
- There is a + button inside a speech bubble icon. This is the comment button. Click on it to see all of the commenting options.
- *Note: the phone option has been removed.
New Voicethread experience
- The comment fan is now placed to the left
- At the bottom-left corner, there is a + button inside a speech bubble icon. This is the comment button. Click on it to see all of the commenting options.
- *Note: the phone option has been removed.
What Should You Expect?
With these updates focusing on interface improvements, all existing VoiceThread links and content within your courses will remain intact. The most noticeable adjustment will be the new placement of the comment fan, enhancing the user interface for better interaction and engagement.
Support and Training
For a seamless transition to the new VoiceThread interface, we encourage you to check out the available resources:
- Questions? Reach out to LTS@uic.edu for personalized support.
- Learn More with the New VoiceThread Webinar: Sign up for a webinar hosted by VoiceThread for a full tour of the new features. Participants unable to attend will receive recordings post-session.
This update represents a significant improvement in VoiceThread’s usability and accessibility, reflecting our commitment to providing a superior user experience.