Apple’s Commitment to Accessibility
For more than 20 years, Apple has provided new and innovative solutions for people with disabilities, allowing them to access — and enjoy using — the Mac, iPod, iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV.
Apple includes assistive technology in its products as standard features — at no additional cost. For example, iPhone, iPad, iPod, and Mac OS X include screen magnification and VoiceOver, a screen-access technology, for the blind and visually impaired. To assist those with cognitive and learning disabilities, every Mac includes an alternative, simplified user interface that rewards exploration and learning. And, for those who find it difficult to use a mouse, every Mac computer includes Mouse Keys, Slow Keys, and Sticky Keys, which adapt the computer to the user’s needs and capabilities.
By listening to our customers and applying thoughtful solutions to previously unsolvable problems, Apple continues to set a high standard for accessibility. Inventions such as braille mirroring, which enables deaf and blind kids to work together on the same computer at the same time; the world’s first screen reader that can be controlled using gestures; and captioning of downloadable digital movies are perfect examples of Apple innovation.
As part of our commitment to accessibility, our Retail Associates are specially trained to serve customers with disabilities. Please ask an Associate for assistance if you have difficulty viewing a product when you visit an Apple Retail Store. The Associate will be happy to assist you by moving displayed products to more accessible locations if possible.
On this site, you’ll find additional information about the many accessibility features built into Apple products. You can also learn how Apple technology is being used to address the needs of students by visiting Apple’s special education page. If you have comments or suggestions about accessibility, we welcome your feedback. Please send email to accessibility@apple.com.
Latest in Accessibility
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iPad 2
iPad 2 comes standard with industry-leading accessibility features and FaceTime video calling.
Learn more about iPad 2 -
NFB honors Apple
Apple wins the Dr. Jacob Bolotin Award from the National Federation of the Blind for innovative work in accessibility.
Read the press release -
iPod nano
iPod nano includes VoiceOver, white-on-black video, and mono audio.
Learn more about iPod nano -
iPhone and iPod touch
iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, and iPod touch include a built-in screen reader, full-screen magnification, and other new accessibility features.
Learn more about iPhone
Learn more about iPod touch -
Mac OS X Snow Leopard
VoiceOver 3 sets a new standard in simplicity with revolutionary gesture support. Learn more about Snow Leopard
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Braille Displays
iOS 4 includes support for Bluetooth braille displays. Learn more about Braille Displays
Products
Mac OS X
Mac OS X includes many features and technologies designed for people with special needs. Learn more
iPod nano
iPod nano includes VoiceOver, the gesture-based screen reader that lets visually impaired users browse and select songs without viewing the screen. Learn more
Resources
VPATs
Download Voluntary Product Accessibility Templates (VPATs) for Apple products from the Resources page. Learn more
Community
Learn from and share with others who use the accessibility features of Apple products. Learn more