Mobile apps have become essential in our daily lives. Whether as consumers, citizens, students, patients, or employees, we rely on apps for almost everything. However, many apps are challenging to use for people who don’t fit the "standard" user profile, such as individuals with visual, auditory, or motor disabilities. As apps are now integral to daily life, these users face considerable barriers without sufficient alternatives.
The European Accessibility Act is set to change this. In this article, you’ll learn all about it, including what it means for your apps.
The number of people who benefit from accessible apps is larger than you might think. About 25% of the population has some disability that makes using a standard app difficult (source: EU statistics on disabilities). This includes individuals with visual impairments (such as blindness or low vision), hearing difficulties, color blindness, motor impairments, ADHD, epilepsy, and reading or speech challenges. Many others without disabilities also benefit from accessibility options, including older adults, or anyone needing larger text, dark mode, or improved readability outdoors.
Investing in accessibility not only helps your app meet legal standards but also boosts customer satisfaction and employee productivity.
Starting in June 2025, all websites and apps must comply with the European accessibility requirements under the European Accessibility Act. This legislation applies not only to public institutions but also to private companies.
While the EU’s Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are primarily geared toward websites, there are specific requirements for apps as well. Mobile apps present unique challenges, such as touch-based controls and gestures. Here are some important guidelines:
Discover how De Lijn is committed to creating an inclusive travel experience, with a special focus on accessibility for people with disabilities. Watch the webinar to learn more about the development of their mobile app!
Improving the accessibility of an existing app doesn’t have to be costly. Small, incremental adjustments can make a big difference. A brief review can help identify key areas for improvement. For new apps, designing with accessibility in mind from the start is ideal. This means logically structuring app elements so screen readers and other assistive technologies can navigate them smoothly.
Testing is essential: while internal tests are helpful, involving people with disabilities provides realistic and valuable feedback.
Accessible apps aren’t just necessary—they can be powerful tools for people with disabilities. With modern smartphones and AI technology, apps can offer an extra layer of support. For example, we developed an app for EMVI that helps blind users scan their surroundings and interpret visual information. For the guide dog organization ‘Licht en Liefde,’ we’re creating an app to assist blind individuals in navigating traffic.