Making Technology Accessible

Close-up of a computer keyboard with large-type characters, a woman's hands set to type on the keys.

AFB is committed to helping companies supply user-friendly devices to individuals with vision loss. The AFB Tech team evaluates mainstream and assistive technology and collaborates with companies to ensure the latest products meet the needs of consumers with visual impairments. These evaluations are published in AFB's popular online magazine, AccessWorld®, as well as in leading industry journals. In 2011, AT&T, Verizon, and Sony Ericsson worked with AFB's consulting arm to help make their popular cell phones more accessible to people with disabilities.

"Thanks again for your excellent work, in particular your continuing coverage of the cell phone market. Your articles on cell phones and other equipment help me greatly personally, and in [the] work I do to assist other blind and visually impaired people through the Kansas Rehabilitation Services."

—Todd, vision rehabilitation counselor and AccessWorld reader

(Photo Caption) 42% of Americans with disabilities have broadband at home, considerably below the national average.
Source: FCC survey, October-November 2009