Guest Blogger Hannah H.
Mobile apps influence how we work, communicate, and handle daily tasks. In the U.S., 91% of people own a smartphone and spend almost all their mobile time using apps.
But even though apps are part of our daily lives, they haven’t always been designed for everyone.
Accessible design makes it possible for people with vision, hearing, motor, or cognitive disabilities to use apps with confidence. It also helps build trust, reach more users, and create better products for all.
In this article, we’ll explore how apps are becoming more inclusive, why accessibility matters, and what you should keep in mind when designing for everyone. Learn how apps are evolving to better support people with disabilities.
According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 1.3 billion people live with a significant form of disability. That’s 16 percent of the global population. That’s one out of six people that could face barriers to participation if apps are not designed with accessibility in mind.
The 2025 State of Mobile App Accessibility (SOMAA) report highlights this gap. After reviewing 50 top apps across five industries, 72% of user journeys had accessibility barriers that led to poor experiences.
Accessibility is not only about inclusion, it is also a legal responsibility. Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) relates to websites and mobile applications, prohibiting discrimination against people with disabilities. Businesses, developers, and all public-facing apps must therefore ensure accessibility by following the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).
The WCAG core principles include: Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust (known as the POUR principles). These guidelines offer instructions for developers to make their platforms accessible to individuals with disabilities.
Developers are now building inclusive design right into the user experience, so more people can connect, learn, and work without barriers. From voice navigation to layouts that support different ways of thinking, apps are setting new standards for inclusion.
Voice commands and screen readers let users navigate apps without needing to see the screen. Tools like iOS VoiceOver and Android TalkBack provide spoken feedback for full interaction. Dictation and voice assistants offer hands-free options, helping people with vision or mobility challenges.
For example, WhatsApp is fully compatible with both VoiceOver and TalkBack. The app enables users to send messages, listen to audio, and manage conversations entirely through speech.
Visual adjustments like high-contrast themes, larger text, and customizable colors make apps easier to use for people with low vision, dyslexia, or color blindness. Some apps even use AI to add alt text or image descriptions, making content clearer for everyone.
Consider Gmail which supports font scaling and added spacing, benefiting users with dyslexia. Automatic dark mode in apps such as Twitter (X) also reduces eye strain while supporting accessibility.
Real-time captioning and transcriptions make audio content accessible for deaf or hard-of-hearing users. YouTube provides automatic closed captions on most videos, allowing their billions of users to follow along without audio. Real-time transcription apps, like Otter.ai, also make meetings and lectures more accessible.
Beyond captions, visual alerts and vibration notifications are alternatives to sound alerts, ensuring users receive important updates regardless of hearing ability.
Motor accessibility means offering flexible ways to use apps for people with limited mobility. Gesture controls, adaptive switch devices, and touch interactions make apps easier to use. For example, Apple’s Switch Control lets you navigate iOS devices with external adaptive hardware.
AI-powered motion tracking now lets people control apps with facial expressions or eye movements, giving more independence to those with limited dexterity. Custom navigation options, like choosing between swipe, tap, or voice, help everyone use apps in the way that works best for them.
Cognitive-friendly features help people with ADHD, autism, or dyslexia use apps more easily. Simple interfaces, clear language, and fewer distractions make for a better experience. Larger touch targets and logical navigation also help users stay focused and understand what to do next.
For example, Microsoft’s Immersive Reader supports individuals with dyslexia by highlighting text, breaking down syllables, and reading content aloud. AI assistants also provide step-by-step guidance, helping users stay oriented throughout workflows.
The best apps focus on accessibility from the very beginning. Accessibility-first design means planning for features like screen reader compatibility and keyboard navigation early on rather than treating them as add-ons later.
Inclusive user testing with people who have different disabilities also gives valuable feedback early in the app development process. This helps you find and fix any barriers before launch. Prototyping also checks if features work well and can reveal accessibility issues.
Ultimately, designing for accessibility benefits everyone. Features like voice commands, captions, and high-contrast modes make apps easier for all users. By thinking inclusively from the start, you can avoid expensive redesigns and improve the overall user experience.
If you want to build accessible apps, start with a clear strategy. Let accessibility guide each step, from design and development to testing and updates. Creating inclusive experiences begins with a commitment to meet users where they are.
Here are some broad tips to help you build more inclusive app experiences:
Accessibility is changing the way apps are developed. Businesses that embrace inclusive design from the start can create apps that reach more people, comply with new standards, and offer better experiences to users.
At Lithios, we believe the best apps are built for everyone. Our team specializes in designing and developing custom mobile solutions that combine accessibility, scalability, and creativity.
Contact us to see why the brightest companies trust Lithios.
Get in touch
Social
.svg){kind=logo}
©2025 Lithios LLC. All Rights Reserved
