This week highlighted both progress and challenges in AI-driven accessibility worldwide. In Europe, a report revealed 75% of businesses aren’t ready for the European Accessibility Act (EAA), which requires websites and apps to meet strict standards by June 2025. Companies face fines if they don’t fix issues like missing alt text or poor color contrast. IKEA responded by launching AI navigation guides for blind customers and tools to auto-scan stores for physical barriers.

Travel websites remain a trouble spot. A study of 1,609 sites found 27 images per page lack descriptions, making them unusable for screen reader users. Many also had broken keyboard shortcuts, trapping users who can’t use mice.

At Microsoft’s Ability Summit, the company unveiled an Xbox Adaptive Joystick designed with Tobii Dynavox to help gamers with limited hand movement. Microsoft also shared AI hiring tools that flag biased job questions, like asking about transportation (which can disadvantage people with disabilities).

New York City rolled out digital training for government workers, teaching them to create accessible documents and websites using Microsoft’s courses. Meanwhile, Capgemini tested AI sensors in six offices to detect obstacles like narrow doorways or loud areas harmful to neurodiverse staff.

3Play Media launched AI video translators that add captions in 50+ languages, helping businesses comply with the EAA. However, beta tests of a smart assistant showed AI still struggles with disability biases. When a blind user mentioned enjoying a movie, the AI apologized awkwardly, assuming visuals were unimportant. In another test, it wrongly guessed all blind people have guide dogs.

Education saw wins: AI note-taking apps like Otter.ai now generate class summaries for students who miss lessons due to illness. Google Drive’s new video transcripts let users jump to specific scenes, aiding deaf students.

Despite progress, 45% of Canadians with disabilities face online barriers, like websites blocking screen readers. Experts urge companies to involve disabled communities in AI design to fix these gaps.

Workplace tools like Microsoft Copilot are boosting productivity by helping neurodiverse employees manage emails and meetings. Surveys show 91% of workers with disabilities find such tools helpful.

Looking ahead, the push for inclusive AI continues. As Sarah Massengale, a disability advocate, warned: “If AI isn’t trained by diverse teams, it will keep failing us”.