For this month’s round up of digital accessibility news, we took a different approach: highlighting Disability:IN corporate partners and how they celebrated and recognized the importance of accessibility for Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD – May 19). As always, if you have questions about our digital accessibility program, please contact Jeff Wissel, our Chief Accessibility Officer.
Disability:IN Corporate Partners Celebrate Global Accessibility Awareness Day
Amazon
To mark Global Accessibility Awareness Day 2022, Amazon Devices & Services has released research findings showing how devices and smart home technology are helping improve the lives of people with accessibility issues, but that more focus needs to be placed on inclusive design. They also hosted a virtual roundtable event with a panel of industry representatives to discuss the new research findings. Read more.
Apple
Apple previewed innovative software features that introduce new ways for users with disabilities to navigate, connect, and get the most out of Apple products. These powerful updates combine the company’s latest technologies to deliver unique and customizable tools for users, and build on Apple’s long-standing commitment to making products that work for everyone. Read more.
AT&T
The “Take 5 Digital Accessibility Challenge” to helps individuals “find empathy in the palm of your hand.” Most of us need to become more aware of how technology helps to ensure inclusivity for those of varying abilities. One of the best and easiest ways to experience the value of digital accessibility for yourself is right in the palm of your hand. Highly customizable, your smartphone’s features can help you develop empathy for how others might experience the technology – and make it uniquely more usable based on an individual’s own needs. Read more.
Google
In addition to making a Google Doodle honoring disability rights activist Stacey Park Milbern, Google published a post on “How we build with and for people with disabilities” explaining how they’re making education more accessible and launching a new Android accessibility feature. Read more.
LinkedIn
LinkedIn Social Impact hosted a live conversation with leaders in the accessibility advocacy space on how you can effectively share your story to inspire change. LinkedIn’s Vice President of Global Compliance and Integrity, Amyn Thawer, interviewed Becky Kekula and Haben Girma on their experiences as content creators with disabilities.
Meta
Meta highlighted recent advances to make their technologies more inclusive, including product demos, updates on their accessibility progress and an interview with digital creator and blind advocate Molly Burke. They also announced alt text for stickers on Facebook and Messenger, enabling those who are blind or visually impaired to experience stickers through assistive technologies like screen readers. Read more.
Microsoft
In a post written by Chief Accessibility Officer, Jenny Lay-Flurrie, she outlines their journey to bridge the disability divide in partnership with disability community and accessibility experts around the world. The post covers technology, talent pipeline and workplace topics. Read more.
Samsung
From Samsung U.K’s Newsroom: “New Research Reveals Nearly Half of the Nation Aren’t Comfortable Talking About Disabilities in the Workplace” finds when it comes to accessibility in the workplace, almost two thirds (70%) felt their workplace isn’t providing the tech that enables greater accessibility to people with disabilities, showing the need for greater access and awareness of accessible technology features amongst employers. Read more.
Shell
Shell is creating an increasingly inclusive digital experience for employees and customers. On GAAD, they outlined 4 key actions they’ve taken to make their digital solutions accessible to all stakeholders, including staff. The post also highlights their ‘Digital Accessibility Standards’ which include accessibility guidelines and best practices for design, communication, and coding. Read more.
Sony
Sony published comprehensive information on their accessibility efforts, including a special message from their Chairman, President and CEO Kenichiro Yoshida, a video highlighting “Sony’s Accessibility for All”, interviews with the products and services team and additional information on Sony Interactive Entertainment and Sony Financial Group accessibility initiatives. Read more.
Verizon
On May 19, Verizon hosted a “Forward for Good Disability Innovation Showcase” where companies demonstrated accessible technology from innovators who are moving the world forward for everybody. Seven companies were featured. Read more.
