Looking Forward at the Importance of Accessibility in 2025

As we close the chapter on 2024, it’s impossible not to feel inspired by the strides we’ve made in the world of accessibility. This year has marked a pivotal turning point. Across industries and governments, accessibility has evolved from being a "nice-to-have" to a compliance requirement that enhances user experiences and delivers real business benefits.

At Recite Me, we’ve been privileged to be at the forefront of this movement. This year was particularly special as we celebrated our 15th anniversary. What started as a vision to make the internet accessible to everyone has grown into a team of over 100 passionate individuals, spanning three continents, working with over 9,000 websites. Industry leaders like Jaguar Land Rover, Matalan, and Danone have joined us in this mission. Together, we’ve helped millions of users tailor their online experiences to suit their unique needs. In 2024 alone, the Recite Me toolbar was launched over 7 million times globally, making over 47 million web pages accessible in ways that were previously out of reach.

The Accessibility Landscape in 2024

The progress we’ve witnessed this year is the result of collective efforts, significant technological advancements, and evolving global regulation. In the United States, The Department of Justice (DOJ) has issued a final rule mandating that state and local government websites and mobile apps comply with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Levels A and AA. This rule provides clear guidance on their legal obligations to ensure digital accessibility for all users.

Meanwhile, in Europe, preparations for the 2025 implementation of the European Accessibility Act (EAA) have set the stage for transformative change. This landmark legislation will make accessibility a requirement for products and services across the EU, encompassing websites, mobile applications, and e-commerce platforms. The EAA is a wake-up call for businesses operating within the EU market—compliance is no longer optional.

From a technological standpoint, updates to WCAG 2.2 have offered refined standards for accessibility, and the development of WCAG 3.0 promises to shape the future of inclusive design. These updates, coupled with advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, have enabled more intuitive and responsive solutions. Features like AI-driven alt text generators, eye-tracking technologies, and speech recognition are breaking down barriers for users with disabilities.

What’s Ahead in 2025

Looking forward to 2025, accessibility will continue to rise as a strategic priority for organisations around the globe. Here’s what we predict:

• Legislative Drivers

The EAA will officially take effect on June 28, 2025, and its impact will be monumental. Companies with more than 10 employees and annual revenues exceeding €2 million must comply or face penalties, including restricted access to the EU market. This regulation leaves no room for hesitation.

In the U.S., the DOJ’s strengthened rules will continue to drive accessibility adoption, ensuring that digital services are inclusive for all Americans. These shifts highlight that businesses ignoring accessibility are not just risking fines but their reputations and customer trust

• Technological Advancements

AI-powered tools will play a critical role in addressing accessibility gaps, providing automated solutions to improve compliance faster and more cost-effectively. Innovations like haptic feedback and voice-enabled navigation will redefine how users interact with digital platforms.

• Market Trends

Accessibility will no longer be a “nice to have” but a business imperative. Companies that prioritise inclusive design will gain a competitive edge, expanding their reach to the estimated 135 million individuals with disabilities in the EU alone and countless more worldwide.

Recommendations for Organisations

To navigate this evolving landscape, organisations should:

• Leverage Accessibility Technologies:?Embrace AI, machine learning, and other innovations like the Recite Me Accessibility Checker to deliver accessible and engaging user experiences.
• Conduct Comprehensive Audits: Evaluate digital platforms to identify and address accessibility gaps proactively.
• Implement Inclusive Design Principles: Build accessibility into every stage of your design and development process, ensuring usability for all users.
• Stay Informed on Regulatory Changes: Monitor updates to laws like the ADA, Section 508, and the EAA to remain compliant and mitigate risk.

As we approach a transformative year for accessibility, I urge all organisations to act now. Compliance is more than meeting regulations; it’s about demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity, fostering innovation, and addressing the diverse needs of every user.

At Recite Me, we’re here to support you on this journey. Our mission is to break down digital barriers and create a world where everyone can access the information and opportunities they need to thrive.

Take the first step toward accessibility today by running a free scan of your website with our Accessibility Checker. Together, we can champion inclusivity, set a new standard for digital accessibility, and make 2025 the most accessible year yet. The future is accessible, let’s build it together.