What is the role of assistive technology in accessibility?

The role of assistive technology in accessibility is fundamentally about empowering individuals with disabilities to engage meaningfully with digital content. This technology is designed to provide enhanced capabilities that facilitate interaction with various forms of media and information.

Assistive technologies, such as screen readers, text-to-speech programs, and alternative input devices, serve to bridge the gap for users who may face barriers in accessing information due to their disabilities. By enhancing their ability to perceive, comprehend, and utilize digital content, assistive technology contributes significantly to ensuring that individuals with disabilities can participate fully in digital environments.

This aligns with the broader objectives of accessibility, which aim to create inclusive experiences that accommodate various user needs rather than limit or simplify functionalities. In this context, the focus is on enabling individuals with disabilities to access the same resources and interactions as their non-disabled peers.