Assistive Technologies
Assistive technologies are tools, devices, or software designed to help people with disabilities interact with digital products and services, such as websites, applications, and hardware interfaces. They include screen readers, speech recognition software, alternative input devices, and accessibility features built into operating systems. The goal is to ensure equal access and usability for all users, regardless of their physical, sensory, or cognitive abilities.
Developers should learn about assistive technologies to create inclusive and accessible digital products that comply with legal standards like the ADA and WCAG, and to reach a broader audience, including the estimated 1 billion people worldwide with disabilities. This knowledge is crucial for roles in web development, UX/UI design, and software engineering, especially when building public-facing applications, educational tools, or government services where accessibility is mandatory.