Technology has become a game-changer for people with disabilities. From navigating the world with ease to improving communication and managing daily tasks, accessible apps and devices can truly empower and enhance independence. Whether you’re looking for assistive tech for mobility, vision, hearing, or cognitive support—this post has you covered. Here are some of our favorite apps and tech for accessibility:
🔊 1. Voice Control & Speech-to-Text Apps
These tools help individuals with mobility or dexterity limitations operate devices hands-free.
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Apple Voice Control (iOS) – Allows complete control of your iPhone, iPad, or Mac using only your voice.
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Google Assistant / Voice Access (Android) – Lets users navigate their phone, send messages, and open apps via voice.
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Otter.ai – Real-time transcription for meetings, conversations, and lectures. Great for hearing impairments or note-taking support.
🧭 2. Navigation & Mobility Tools
Apps that help you get around safely and independently.
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Google Maps (Accessibility Features Enabled) – Shows wheelchair-accessible routes, entrances, and transit options.
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Wheelmap – A crowd-sourced map app that highlights wheelchair-accessible places around you.
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Be My Eyes – Connects blind or low-vision users with sighted volunteers through video chat to help with daily visual tasks (like reading labels or navigating unfamiliar places).
📱 3. Communication Support Apps
Designed for people with speech or language challenges.
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Proloquo2Go – A powerful AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) app that helps non-verbal users communicate using symbols and text-to-speech.
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Talkitt – For users with speech impairments, this app “translates” unintelligible speech into clear communication.
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Speech Assistant AAC – A customizable AAC app for Android users that supports typing and voice output.
👁️ 4. Vision Support Tools
These apps assist blind or low-vision users with reading, navigation, and object recognition.
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Seeing AI (iOS) – Uses your phone’s camera to read text, recognize faces, identify products, and describe scenes.
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Envision AI (iOS & Android) – Reads documents, recognizes objects and colors, and even describes surroundings in real time.
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Aira – Provides on-demand access to trained human agents who can guide blind users through tasks like navigating airports or reading menus.
🧠 5. Cognitive & Organizational Support
Apps that help with memory, focus, routines, and daily task management.
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Todoist / Microsoft To Do – Visual task managers for organizing your day with reminders and color-coded lists.
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Alarmed – Custom alerts and reminders with repeating options—perfect for medication reminders or task prompts.
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MagnusCards – Offers step-by-step visual guides (called “card decks”) for common activities, created with input from autistic users.
🎧 6. Hearing Support Apps
Apps that improve communication for people who are deaf or hard of hearing.
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AVA – Live transcribes group conversations in real time, great for meetings or social gatherings.
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Rogervoice – Subtitled phone calls for people with hearing loss.
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Live Transcribe (Android) – Google’s real-time transcription tool for everyday conversations.
🧠 Bonus: Smart Home Tech That Boosts Accessibility
Smart tech can make your home more accessible and safer:
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Amazon Alexa / Google Nest – Voice-controlled systems for lights, appliances, reminders, and routines.
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Ring Doorbell / Smart Locks – Increase security and allow you to manage access without needing to open a door physically.
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Smart Plugs & Lights – Control with voice or phone, helpful for people with mobility challenges.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking to gain more independence, improve communication, or manage daily life more easily, there’s an app or tool for nearly every need. Accessibility is no longer just a feature—it’s a necessity, and tech companies are slowly catching up.
Share the tools that have helped YOU the most! We will share your recommendations on our Instagram stories!
Sending you love and light,
Jaime
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