accessibility in xr
Prioritizing accessibility in the development of XR is essential to ensure everyone can benefit from the immersive and engaging experiences possible with XR technology.
XR technology is experiencing rapid growth and constant evolution, and it will soon have a place in nearly every industry. To ensure everyone can reap the benefits of XR technology, accessibility needs to be a core design principle for XR developers, not an afterthought.
XR Accessibility Resources
INCLUSIVITY
Accessible XR technologies make immersive XR experiences available and usable to a wider and more diverse audience, including individuals with permanent, temporary, and situational disabilities. This presents a business opportunity by increasing the reach of your content and services to increasingly diverse audiences while also addressing ethical and legal requirements related to accessibility and inclusion.
EQUITABLE OPPORTUNITIES
XR technology can be a powerful tool for more equitable education, training, and employment opportunities. Accessible XR experiences are particularly valuable in STEM fields, where interactive 3D models can help all students better understand complex concepts. To ensure everyone, including people with disabilities, can enjoy the benefits of XR in education and training environments, accessibility features need to be included by design.
EDUCATION AND TRAINING
XR can be a powerful tool for education and training. Accessible XR experiences enable individuals with disabilities to access educational content and job training programs that may have previously been inaccessible. This is particularly valuable in fields like healthcare, where medical professionals can practice surgeries in VR, or in STEM education, where interactive 3D models can help students understand complex concepts.
SOCIAL INCLUSION
XR can facilitate social interactions in virtual spaces. Accessible XR ensures that everyone can participate in social VR environments, attend virtual events, and communicate with others, reducing social isolation and increasing participation in all aspects of society.