What is accessibility?

Definition

Accessible digital systems account for differences in vision, hearing, movement and cognition. Their content and controls need to work through suitable interaction methods, including relevant assistive technologies.

AI-driven adaptation can support some needs but does not automatically make an interface accessible. Changes must remain usable and predictable. Evaluation needs to consider actual tasks and people rather than treating one feature or automated score as complete proof.

ELI5

People can use the same system in different ways. For example, a game menu might let someone move between choices and leave a dialog using only a keyboard.

That option can remove a barrier for someone who cannot use a mouse. Other people may need different changes, so one solution will not cover every need.

Is accessibility the same as automation?

No. A system working for an automated agent does not establish that people with disabilities can use it.

Can automated tests prove accessibility?

No. They check selected properties; human evaluation remains necessary for the broader experience.

  1. Shafik Quoraishee and Joanne Song against a black background beside the blue and white headline Local Agents Adapt.
  2. Pierce Freeman and Richard Diehl Martinez beside the headline Silent Speech.
  3. Three flat geometric page layouts against a black background beside the blue-and-white headline "DESIGN VARIETY".
  4. Portraits of Francesco Bonacci, Dillon DuPont, Robert Wendt against black with the headline MULTI-CURSOR AGENTS in attention blue and white.
  5. Kyle Jeong beside the headline Browser Agent Access.
Definition card for accessibility: What is accessibility?

Accessibility means designing systems so people with disabilities can use them, including AI tools and the interfaces around them.