As generative AI technologies rapidly evolve and become integrated into everyday digital experiences, their impact on accessibility is gaining critical, yet often overlooked, attention. In this in-depth Q&A, Léonie Watson, Co-Founder of TetraLogical and renowned accessibility advocate, delves into the practical ways AI is transforming the digital landscape for over a billion people worldwide living with disabilities.
More than 1.3 billion people live with some form of disability, according to the World Health Organisation. In the UK, that figure is estimated at 16 million, or around a quarter of the population. Despite advances in inclusive design, many digital services remain difficult to access, especially for people who rely on screen readers, need simplified content, or process information differently. AI isn’t a simple silver bullet, but it is helping to bridge these gaps. And, as with any tool, the way it is applied will determine whether it delivers real progress or simply reinforces existing barriers, as Léonie Watson, Co-Founder at TetraLogical explains.
AI-powered tools are not only simplifying access to information by condensing complex documents, rephrasing content into plain language, and enabling interactive clarification but also providing groundbreaking support for blind and low-vision users. From interpreting notoriously inaccessible PDFs to generating on-demand image descriptions and enabling real-time visual awareness through smart glasses and mobile apps, AI is bridging long-standing gaps in digital accessibility.
There is a need for inclusive development processes that actively involve disabled communities. Without their input, AI tools risk perpetuating exclusion rather than eliminating it. She stresses that true inclusion requires planning, genuine listening, and the challenging of assumptions, reminding us that technology can open doors, but only if everyone is invited inside.
How is generative AI reshaping accessibility?
Léonie Watson: AI is starting to address real barriers faced by over a billion people worldwide who live with disabilities. Despite progress in inclusive design, many digital services remain inaccessible, whether for screen reader users, people needing simplified content, or those processing information differently. AI isn't a silver bullet, but if used thoughtfully, it can help bridge gaps rather than reinforce them.
Many neurodivergent individuals struggle with lengthy documents, reports, academic writing, and administrative text due to factors like attention, language, and executive function. Generative AI can transform these into tailored summaries, rephrase complex wording into plain language, and even interactively clarify unclear areas. This enables users to control the flow of information the way they need it—crucial in today's overstimulating environment.
For blind or low-vision users, PDFs and image-heavy content can be especially inaccessible. How can AI help?
Watson: Indeed, PDFs remain a pervasive challenge, often scanned images or complex layouts that screen readers can’t parse. AI can now interpret those formats, summarising the content and presenting it accessibly. Moreover, AI enables ad hoc image description, everything from menus to infographics or social media visuals, areas often neglected in accessibility design.
Are there advances in real-time accessibility aided by AI?
Watson: AI-powered smart glasses or mobile apps are emerging that analyse live video feeds to describe surroundings in real-time. This can mean reading signs, identifying objects, or understanding context in social spaces. We’re still tackling constraints like battery life, privacy, and consistency, but as those improve, the potential for independence is transformative.
What are the limitations or risks with relying on AI for accessibility?
Watson: AI should never replace inclusive design, nor should its outputs be taken at face value. Errors are real; AI-generated image descriptions might confidently hallucinate wrong details. Summaries may omit facts or invent content. Users must therefore approach AI critically, treating it as a helpful assistant but not the final authority. For designers, the message is clear: AI must support, not sidestep, core accessibility principles.
How can we ensure AI development truly includes the voices of disabled users?
Watson: That inclusion must be intentional. Recent UK research shows over a third of disabled individuals fear being left behind as AI gains traction in healthcare and public services. If they aren’t part of the design journey, tools will fail to meet their needs. Put simply, inclusion doesn't happen by accident. It takes planning, listening, and a willingness to challenge assumptions. AI can help open doors, but it’s up to us to make sure everyone is invited in.
