Proprietary Assistive Technology
Proprietary Assistive Technology refers to specialized software, hardware, or systems designed to help individuals with disabilities access digital content or perform tasks, which are owned and controlled by a specific company with restricted licensing. These tools often include screen readers, speech recognition software, alternative input devices, and accessibility plugins that are not open-source. They are typically developed with advanced features and dedicated support, but require purchasing licenses or subscriptions for use.
Developers should learn about Proprietary Assistive Technology when building applications that need to comply with accessibility standards like WCAG or ADA, as these tools are widely used by people with disabilities and can help in testing and ensuring compatibility. It is particularly important in industries such as education, healthcare, and government where legal requirements mandate accessible software. Understanding these tools allows developers to create more inclusive products and avoid potential legal issues related to accessibility non-compliance.