Real-world examples of AI improving mobile app accessibility

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the landscape of mobile app accessibility, making digital experiences more inclusive for people with a wide range of disabilities. From real-time captioning to adaptive interfaces, AI-powered features are breaking down barriers that once limited access to information and communication. This guide explores real-world examples of how AI is improving mobile app accessibility, highlighting key technologies, practical applications, and the impact on users’ daily lives.

The Role of AI in Mobile App Accessibility #

AI is uniquely positioned to address accessibility challenges by automating tasks that were previously manual or impossible. By leveraging machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision, AI can personalize user experiences, interpret complex content, and provide alternative ways to interact with apps. This is especially important for users with visual, hearing, mobility, or cognitive impairments, who often rely on assistive technologies to navigate digital environments.

Key Concepts in AI-Driven Accessibility #

  • Adaptive Interfaces: AI can automatically adjust app settings like contrast, font size, and navigation based on user needs.
  • Real-Time Transcription: Speech-to-text and text-to-speech technologies enable users who are deaf or hard of hearing to access audio content.
  • Image and Object Recognition: AI can describe visual content, making images and surroundings accessible to users with visual impairments.
  • Voice-First Navigation: Voice recognition allows users with mobility or visual impairments to control apps hands-free.

Real-World Examples of AI in Mobile App Accessibility #

Microsoft Seeing AI #

Microsoft Seeing AI is a free mobile app available on iOS and Android that uses AI to assist users who are blind or have low vision. The app leverages the device’s camera and AI-driven tools to describe scenes, read text aloud, and recognize objects in real time. For example, a user can point their phone at a document, and Seeing AI will read the text aloud, or it can identify people and describe their facial expressions. This technology empowers users to navigate their environment more independently and access information that would otherwise be inaccessible.

Google Live Transcribe #

Google Live Transcribe is an app designed to make spoken conversations more accessible for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. By converting speech to text in real time, the app supports inclusive communication in various settings, from one-on-one conversations to group discussions and public environments. The app uses advanced AI to accurately transcribe speech, even in noisy environments, and can display captions on the screen for the user to read. This feature is particularly valuable in situations where traditional captioning is not available.

Be My Eyes #

Be My Eyes is an app that originally connected users with visual disabilities to sighted volunteers for assistance. The app now includes an AI-powered feature that can assist with object and text recognition, including in screenshots and app interfaces, without needing a live human connection. This AI capability allows users to get instant help with tasks like reading labels, identifying products, or navigating unfamiliar environments, making the app more efficient and accessible.

Google Lens #

Google Lens uses AI to help people with visual disabilities read text, identify objects and products, and learn about their surroundings. Users can point their phone’s camera at a scene, and Google Lens will provide audio descriptions of what it sees. The app also supports accessibility features like TalkBack, which provides audio output and customizable text displays, making it easier for users to interact with the app and access information.

Proloquo2Go #

Proloquo2Go is an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) app that helps children and adults with speech disabilities communicate with confidence. The app uses symbol-based tools to start and engage in conversations, and AI enhances its capabilities by providing more accurate and context-aware suggestions. This makes it easier for users to express themselves and participate in social interactions.

Personal LLM #

Personal LLM is a mobile app that allows users to run large language models (LLMs) on their phone for free, with all data kept private since it’s generated on the device. The app is available for both Android and iOS and offers a range of features, including multiple models (Qwen, GLM, Llama, Phi, and Gemma), vision support for analyzing images, and a modern chat interface with message history and templates. Because all AI processing happens on the device, users can chat without an internet connection, and their data never leaves their phone. This makes Personal LLM a valuable tool for users who need privacy and offline access, as well as those who want to use AI-powered features without relying on cloud-based services.

Practical Applications of AI in Accessibility #

Adaptive Interfaces #

AI-powered adaptive interfaces can automatically adjust app settings based on user needs. For example, Microsoft’s Seeing AI and Google’s TalkBack use machine learning to describe surroundings and on-screen content, making it easier for users with visual impairments to navigate apps. These interfaces can also adjust contrast, font size, and voice navigation, providing a more personalized and accessible experience.

Real-Time Transcription and Captioning #

AI-driven real-time transcription and captioning are becoming baseline expectations in mobile apps. Google Live Transcribe and similar apps use advanced speech recognition to convert spoken language into text, making audio content accessible to users who are deaf or hard of hearing. This technology is also being integrated into video conferencing apps, social media platforms, and educational tools, expanding its reach and impact.

Image and Object Recognition #

AI-powered image and object recognition are transforming how users with visual impairments interact with digital content. Apps like Google Lens and Microsoft Seeing AI use computer vision to describe images, identify objects, and provide audio feedback. This technology is particularly useful for tasks like reading documents, identifying products, and navigating unfamiliar environments.

Voice-First Navigation #

Voice recognition technology is enabling users with mobility or visual impairments to control apps hands-free. Smart assistants and voice search are now mainstream, but in 2025, voice-first accessibility goes beyond simple commands. Users can navigate entire apps, perform complex tasks, and access information using only their voice, making digital experiences more inclusive and user-friendly.

The Impact of AI on Accessibility Standards #

AI is not only improving individual apps but also shaping broader accessibility standards and guidelines. The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2, updated in 2023, are now widely adopted, with governments mandating compliance. AI-powered tools are helping developers identify and fix accessibility issues more efficiently, ensuring that apps meet these standards and provide a more equitable user experience.

Testing and Compliance #

AI-powered accessibility testing tools, such as Evinced and GTXiLib, are making it easier for developers to identify and resolve accessibility issues. These tools use machine learning to detect problems like missing traits, insufficient color contrast, and small touch targets, providing actionable recommendations for fixes. By integrating these tools into the development process, organizations can ensure that their apps are accessible to all users.

The Future of AI in Mobile App Accessibility #

As AI technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more innovative solutions to emerge. AI-driven accessibility features will become more sophisticated, personalized, and integrated into everyday apps. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) applications are also exploring AI-driven accessibility tools, such as real-time object identification and customizable input methods, to make these technologies more inclusive and user-friendly.

Privacy and Data Security #

Privacy and data security are critical considerations in AI-driven accessibility. Apps like Personal LLM demonstrate how AI can be used to provide powerful accessibility features while keeping user data private and secure. By processing data on the device and offering offline functionality, these apps ensure that users can access AI-powered features without compromising their privacy.

Conclusion #

AI is revolutionizing mobile app accessibility, making digital experiences more inclusive and empowering for people with disabilities. From real-time transcription and adaptive interfaces to image recognition and voice-first navigation, AI-powered features are breaking down barriers and expanding access to information and communication. As technology continues to advance, we can expect even more innovative solutions to emerge, further enhancing the accessibility and usability of mobile apps for everyone.