Human Interface Devices (HIDs) are the bridge between humans and technology, they are what allow us to give instructions to a machine and create something from nothing. Keyboards, mice, touchscreens, and joysticks are just the tip of the iceberg, how about a magic carpet or a pedal? Or how about a potato? Heck, even the iceberg can be an HID device!

In this talk, we'll demystify the world of Human Interface Devices, their laws, and their creation process from a software and hardware perspective, offering a comprehensive understanding of how these crucial devices are designed and built, and how they can be used to improve the lives of important segments of the world population..

We will explore the intricate craftsmanship behind HIDs, from the ergonomic considerations that enhance user experience to the technical complexities that make them function seamlessly. During this talk, you will find out that everything (within reason) can be an input device, and the only thing between you and your very own way of interacting with machines is a few affordable components, a couple of lines of code, and a creative mind.

However, this talk goes beyond the mechanics of HID design. It's an invitation for software developers to embrace the concept of accessibility. As we navigate the landscape of HID devices, we'll highlight the role these devices play in ensuring technology is inclusive for all users.

By the end of this talk, you'll have learned a bit more about HID devices, and how accessible microcontrollers are nowadays, and ideally, you’ll have gained a new perspective when thinking about accessibility within your software projects.