Summary
The metaverse, virtual reality, Web 3.0, distributed infrastructure, the Internet of Things, wearable computing, and AI: all these things are going to change the face of accessibility over the next 10 years. In this talk, Samuel Proulx, Fable’s Accessibility Evangelist, will give you an overview of what the current landscape looks like at the frontier of accessibility and assistive technology. Where’s the research taking us? What might be coming down the pipe?
Key Insights
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Early computing's text-based interfaces were naturally accessible through screen readers and Braille terminals.
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Accessibility was initially seen as an inspiring hack available only to a fortunate few, not as a universal right.
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The transition to graphical user interfaces complicated accessibility efforts, relying heavily on reverse engineering assistive technologies.
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Apple's introduction of VoiceOver was groundbreaking, making touchscreen devices accessible and setting a new industry standard.
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Built-in accessibility APIs encourage developers to create inclusive apps rather than relying on costly third-party solutions.
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Gaming and emerging technologies like VR and AR currently lack first-party accessibility support, repeating historical cycles.
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Artificial intelligence in assistive technology must balance innovation with accuracy and privacy concerns, especially for people with disabilities.
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Cloud computing creates challenges for accessibility as users cannot opt to stay on older, accessible versions of apps.
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Blockchain and peer-to-peer apps raise questions about enforcing accessibility standards across jurisdictions and ensuring ease of use.
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Accessibility improvements designed for people with disabilities tend to improve usability for everyone, creating broader innovation.
Notable Quotes
"Those of us who do not understand history are doomed to repeat it."
"Accessibility was considered an inspiring hack, something extraordinary rather than a right."
"Apple’s VoiceOver made touchscreens accessible and changed the world of accessibility forever."
"Accessibility isn’t just a third-party add-on; it’s now a first-party responsibility for developers and designers alike."
"When we design for the edges, we get the middle for free."
"Virtual reality and augmented reality accessibility are still seen as hacks rather than built-in features."
"We need to be confident in AI-generated descriptions, because if they’re wrong, users with disabilities can’t double-check them."
"Cloud-based apps don’t let you stay on older, accessible versions, which creates challenges for users relying on accessibility."
"Blockchain apps raise unique accessibility challenges because they’re decentralized and subject to little regulation."
"The first organization to solve accessibility in new modes of technology will gain a lasting innovation advantage."
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