2024 has seen huge progress in digital accessibility, creating a more inclusive online space for people with disability.
In particular, we have seen major technology companies such as Microsoft, Apple, and Google introducing innovative features specifically geared for enhancing accessibility. These include improved screen reader support, voice commands, and audio descriptions.
Artificial intelligence (AI) has played a crucial role in driving these innovations, supporting image recognition, speech-to-text, and language processing. The integration of AI-powered tools has transformed the way people with disability interact with digital content in their day-to-day lives.
On a lighter note, gaming has also become more accessible, with Xbox and Electronic Arts introducing adaptive controllers and accessibility upgrades respectively. Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality technologies have picked up significantly as well, making great waves in the accessibility space.
The shift towards digital inclusivity has been further accelerated by the development of new assistive technologies, such as smart gloves for sign language interpretation and devices enabling communication through hand movements.
Importantly, regulatory bodies have taken steps to ensure digital accessibility is appropriately applied. For example, the US Department of Justice has recently enacted website accessibility standards, while the European Accessibility Act 2025 is looming on the horizon.
Digital accessibility will undoubtedly continue to influence the tech sector going forward, ultimately creating a more inclusive society for people with disability.
What a year it has been!