Digital accessibility is evolving rapidly, and 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark year.
Key Trends in Digital Accessibility:
WCAG 2.2 Adoption in Australia: As of April 2, 2025, Australia has formally adopted WCAG 2.2 Level AA compliance as a minimum, updating from the former WCAG 2.0 standard that had been in place since 2014.
WCAG 3.0 Draft Updates: The new draft introduces a more flexible testing approach, allowing for scoring and partial credit, focusing on actual usability rather than just checkbox compliance.
Increased Focus on Mobile Accessibility: With the exponential rise in mobile device usage, developers are prioritising accessible mobile designs.
AI-Enabled Accessibility Solutions: AI-powered tools are enhancing digital accessibility, offering real-time captioning, screen readers, and voice recognition.
Inclusive Design: Design processes are incorporating diverse user needs, considering age, culture, and socioeconomic factors.
Extended Reality (XR) Accessibility: XR technologies are becoming more accessible, with features like haptic feedback and audio descriptions.
The Future of Digital Accessibility:
As regulations tighten and public expectations grow, organisations are prioritising digital accessibility. By combining AI-powered automation with human expertise, businesses can create inclusive digital experiences that cater to diverse user needs.
What’s next for 2026? Stay tuned!