Accessibility in mobile app design is crucial for ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability, can use and benefit from the app. It is not only a moral responsibility but also a legal requirement under the Equality Act 2010 in the UK. This applies to both consumer-facing apps and internal apps that are used within businesses.
Accessible mobile apps provide a better user experience for all users, not just those with disabilities. For example, using larger text and high-contrast colour schemes can make it easier for older users to read, and providing alternative text for images can make the app more usable for users with visual impairments.
One key aspect of accessibility in mobile app design is ensuring that the app can be navigated using only a keyboard. This is important for users who are unable to use a touch screen or who prefer to use a keyboard.
Another important aspect is providing alternative text for images and other non-text content. This allows users with visual impairments to understand the context and meaning of the content using a screen reader.
Designing mobile apps with accessibility in mind can also improve the app’s search engine optimisation (SEO) and make it easier for users to find the app in app stores. For internal apps, it can also improve the efficiency and productivity of employees with disabilities.
In addition, accessible mobile apps can also be beneficial for businesses. By designing apps that are accessible to all users, businesses can reach a wider audience and potentially increase their customer base. For internal apps, it can also improve the inclusivity and diversity of the workplace.
In conclusion, accessibility in mobile app design is not only a legal requirement but also a moral responsibility. It ensures that everyone, regardless of ability, can use and benefit from the app, whether it is a consumer-facing app or an internal app for use within a business. Additionally, accessibility can also improve the app’s SEO and increase the business customer base, or improve the efficiency and productivity of employees. It is important for mobile app designers to consider accessibility from the beginning of the design process and throughout the development process.
Here at Pocket App, we are committed to providing exceptional accessible experiences, not just hitting standards. For the Royal National Institute of Blind People, we had to go above and beyond, creating an app specifically designed for blind/partially-blind users. If accessibility is at the top of your project’s priority list, talk to our mobile experts!
