Shaylynn Hayes-Raymond on behalf of Misophonia International and the International Misophonia Foundation has been working with the accessibility/disability department at Microsoft to advocate for the blinking text cursor (caret |) to respect system settings on Mac and the apple mobile operating system. Windows versions of these apps already honour this program setting. Microsoft has officially made the change to all of their apps on all apple devices.
For many with sensory disorders, misokinesia, autism, ADHD, and more, the blinking text cursor can cause an aversive reaction.
Shaylynn Hayes-Raymond, a dedicated advocate and founding member of the Misophonia Foundation, announced a significant victory for digital accessibility today: Microsoft has removed the blinking caret (cursor) from its applications on Apple products following a year of advocacy and direct communication.
The change resolves a major sensory trigger for millions of individuals living with Misophonia and other sensory processing sensitivities.
“This is a powerful moment that validates the daily struggles of the Misophonia community,” said Shaylynn Hayes-Raymond. “A blinking cursor might seem trivial to most, but for individuals with Misophonia, that constant visual motion causes genuine stress and pain. This change is a huge step toward making technology more inclusive.”
Misophonia is a chronic condition characterized by an involuntary, intense emotional and physiological reaction (often disgust, anxiety, or rage) to specific, soft sounds, such as chewing, breathing, or tapping. The condition impacts individuals and their families worldwide, often leading to social isolation and disruption of daily life.
Focusing on Awareness and Research
This advocacy win comes as the International Misophonia Foundation prepares for its upcoming Misophonia Conference. The Foundation is dedicated to supporting critical research and increasing public understanding of the condition.
The Microsoft decision serves as a powerful illustration of the urgent need for wider accessibility accommodations in digital and public spaces. Mrs. Hayes-Raymond is actively working to bridge the gap between scientific understanding and practical, real-world solutions for families.
Shaylynn Hayes-Raymond is available for interviews, calls, and commentary on the Microsoft decision, digital accessibility, and the mission of the Misophonia Foundation.
Contact at shaylynn@misophoniafoundation.com
If you are looking for misophonia coping skills, you can go here to see coaching (worldwide) and here to see therapy (Canada) options with Shaylynn Hayes-Raymond. Shaylynn also offers both live and on-demand webinars for misophonia.