The AI-Accessibility Frontier: Progress, Potential, and Pitfalls

Presented on 2 October 2024.


Discover the evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing accessibility and assistive technology. Beau Vass and Joe DiNero discuss both the exciting possibilities and current limitations of AI in accessibility, with insights into future advancements as well as how we need to be cautious as we continue to unlock the potential of this technology.

Webinar
October 02, 2024

On 2 October 2024, Beau Vass, TTC Global Accessibility Practice Technical Lead, and Joe DiNero, Assistant Program Director of Assistive Technology Services at Helen Keller Services for the Blind and Head Digital Accessibility tester at UsableNet discussed the The AI-Accessibility Frontier: Progress, potential and pitfalls, a free public webinar by TTC Global Digital Accessibility Practice. 

Key topics covered include:

  • The role of AI in accessibility: The speakers discussed how AI advancements, such as large language models and assistive technologies, are enhancing accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
  • Evolution of AI in assistive technology: The discussion highlighted how AI-powered tools like smart assistants (e.g., Siri, Google Assistant), OCR (Optical Character Recognition), barcode scanners, and apps like "Be My Eyes" have improved accessibility and independence for blind and visually impaired individuals.
  • Challenges and limitations of AI: Issues such as AI "hallucinations" (incorrect or misleading outputs), bias in datasets, and the importance of manual testing for accessibility were explored. The speakers emphasized that AI should be seen as a tool rather than a full replacement for human judgment.
  • The future of AI and accessibility: The conversation touched on emerging technologies like AI-powered smart glasses and real-time scene descriptions, which could further enhance mobility and independence. However, concerns about accuracy and potential risks were noted.
  • AI and digital content accessibility: The speakers discussed how AI is being used to support web accessibility but cautioned that it is not yet a reliable replacement for human testing and expertise.
  • Collaboration and standards for accessible AI development: The importance of diverse datasets and industry collaboration to ensure AI benefits everyone, including those with disabilities, was emphasized.
  • Q&A: The hosts answer questions from the audience.

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