AI is making websites and media more user-friendly
What's the story
AI tools are revolutionizing the way digital content becomes accessible by automating tasks such as alt text creation, captioning, readability improvement, and accessibility auditing. They save time and improve consistency, but require human supervision for accuracy. They make images accessible through alt text generation and media accessible with transcription services. Plus, AI simplifies complex texts for better readability and helps websites adhere to accessibility standards.
#1
Enhancing image accessibility
AI systems like ChatGPT and Google Gemini help generate draft alt text for images, charts, and infographics. This capability aids screen reader users by giving them descriptions of visual content. By automating this, creators can easily make their content more inclusive, without investing too much time in writing manual descriptions.
#2
Improving media accessibility
Transcription and captioning tools like Descript and Sonix also convert spoken content to text, making video and audio media more accessible to deaf or hard-of-hearing audiences. Automated speech recognition systems take this a step further by quickly generating accurate captions. They greatly enhance the overall user experience by ensuring that all users can interact with the content effectively and efficiently.
#3
Simplifying text readability
AI tools take the hassle out of reading through complex texts by summarizing long documents or creating clearer versions of content. Even tools like Microsoft 365's Immersive Reader help you adjust the way text appears to make it easier to read. This can be handy for people who prefer concise language or require help in processing information.
#4
Auditing website accessibility
Platforms like Deque, UserWay, EqualWeb, and Allyable scan web pages for accessibility issues such as missing labels or contrast problems. These AI-driven audits generate reports that help teams address compliance with WCAG standards promptly. Some even apply fixes in real time to improve website usability immediately.