Accessibility in Technology Has Come a Long Way

Accessibility in Technology Has Come a Long Way, and I see that progress every day.

Voice assistants understand different speech patterns.
Phones stabilize shaky hands.
Predictive text finishes words before I type them.
Built-in features help me stay organized, independent, and present as a dad.

Compared to even 10 or 15 years ago, it’s a completely different landscape.

However, while accessibility has improved dramatically, we’re not done yet.

Because the real test of accessibility isn’t what happens in controlled environments. It’s what happens in everyday life — in stores, restaurants, apps, and the little moments where friction still shows up.

Self-Checkout Kiosks

Self-checkout was supposed to make things easier. Sometimes it does. Other times, it creates a new set of challenges.

Touchscreens can be overly sensitive.
Buttons are small.
Timers move quickly.
And the machine rarely waits patiently.

If my hand shakes and I hit the wrong button, I’m suddenly navigating menus I never meant to open while the voice behind me sighs loudly. It’s not a major barrier — but it’s definitely not seamless either.

Accessibility isn’t just about having a touchscreen. It’s about designing one that works for everyone.

QR Code Menus

QR code menus became popular for convenience. In theory, they simplify things. In practice, they can create new friction.

Scanning the code.
Zooming in.
Scrolling.
Trying to tap small menu items.

It’s manageable, but it requires more precision than a physical menu. Something as simple as ordering lunch can take extra time and effort.

Technology should reduce steps, not add them.

Small Touch Targets in Apps

Many apps still use tiny buttons. For users with steady hands, it’s fine. For someone with tremors, it’s a different story.

A small icon becomes a moving target.
One missed tap opens the wrong screen.
Now you’re backing out and trying again.

These aren’t major accessibility failures — they’re just reminders that inclusive design still matters.

Two-Factor Authentication Timing

Two-factor authentication improves security, and that’s a good thing. However, the timing often assumes fast typing and quick input.

Codes expire quickly.
You switch between apps.
Your hands take an extra second.

Suddenly you’re requesting another code.

Again, not impossible — just friction that could be reduced with more flexible timing.

Voice Assistants in Noisy Environments

Voice assistants have improved dramatically, but noisy environments still pose challenges.

At a baseball field, for example, there’s crowd noise, announcements, and background chatter. Asking for quick information doesn’t always work the first time.

It’s a small thing, but improving recognition in real-world environments would make voice tools even more helpful.

Progress Still Matters

Even with these challenges, the progress is undeniable. I can do things today that weren’t possible years ago. I can capture moments, manage responsibilities, and stay engaged as a dad in ways that technology now supports.

That’s meaningful.

And these aren’t complaints. They’re opportunities.

Because accessibility isn’t a finish line — it’s an ongoing process. Small improvements add up. Slightly larger buttons. Flexible timers. Smarter interfaces. Each change reduces friction.

And less friction means more participation.

Why This Matters

As a dad with cerebral palsy, accessibility isn’t about perfection. It’s about momentum. It’s about continuing to remove barriers so everyday moments feel easier, not harder.

Technology has already made a huge difference in my life. There’s no question about that.

But the next step isn’t massive innovation. It’s refinement. It’s polishing the everyday experiences that people use constantly.

Because when accessibility improves, everyone benefits.

And that’s how we keep moving forward — one small improvement at a time.