If you’ve ever tried to read tiny text on your phone or got lost in a maze of confusing menus, you know technology isn’t always as “user-friendly” as it claims. For people who are neurodivergent, including folks with dyslexia, ADHD, autism, and other brain differences, those challenges can be even bigger. That’s why Apple’s latest announcement about new accessibility features caught our attention. It feels like a real move toward making tech work for all kinds of minds.
What’s New?
Apple is rolling out a bunch of updates across iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and even the Apple Vision Pro. We read through Apple’s official newsroom post, checked out The Verge, and even peeked at TechCrunch to get the full picture. Here’s what stood out to us:
- Accessibility Nutrition Labels
This is a new thing for the App Store. Basically, apps will soon have a section that tells you which accessibility features they support. So if you need larger text or voice control, you’ll know before you download. No more guessing or wasting time on apps that just don’t work for you. - Customizable Text and Reader Mode
People with dyslexia or ADHD often find certain fonts or layouts tough to read. Apple’s new Reader mode lets you adjust font, color, and spacing across your device. It’s not just for books or web pages. Now, it’s everywhere. That means less squinting, less frustration, and a lot more independence. - Live Captions on Apple Watch
This one is cool for anyone who’s hard of hearing or just prefers reading over listening. Now, your Apple Watch can show live captions for audio content. Imagine catching a quick video or voice message during a noisy commute and actually knowing what’s being said. - Background Sounds and Focus Tools
These aren’t brand new, but Apple is making them better. You can play calming sounds to help drown out distractions, which is a lifesaver for people with sensory sensitivities or attention issues. A lot of us use these features already, and it’s great to see Apple doubling down on them. - Braille and Magnifier Improvements
While this is huge for people with vision loss, it’s worth mentioning that improved braille support and a better Magnifier app can help neurodivergent folks who have co-occurring sensory differences.
Why Does This Matter for Neurodiversity?
Let’s be real. Neurodiversity isn’t just a buzzword. It’s about recognizing that brains work in all sorts of ways, and that’s not just okay. It’s valuable. Tech companies haven’t always gotten that, but Apple seems to be listening.
Here’s why these features are a big deal for our community:
- Choice and Control
Being able to customize how things look and sound means you can set up your device to match your brain, not the other way around. - Less Friction, More Access
When you know which apps work for you, you spend less time troubleshooting and more time actually using your device. - A Sense of Belonging
Seeing companies like Apple talk openly about accessibility and neurodiversity helps chip away at stigma. It says, “You belong here, too.”
What’s Next?
These updates are expected to roll out later this year, after Apple’s WWDC event. If you’re curious, you can check Apple’s accessibility page for more details or follow tech news sites for hands-on reviews when the features go live.
We’re honestly excited to see where this goes. It isn’t perfect, and nothing ever is, but it feels like a step in the right direction. For anyone who’s ever felt left out by tech, that’s something worth celebrating.
Citations:
- Apple. (2025, May 15). Apple previews new accessibility features. Apple Newsroom. https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2025/05/apple-previews-new-accessibility-features/
- Disability Scoop. (2025, May 20). Apple unveiling new accessibility features. https://www.disabilityscoop.com/2025/05/20/apple-unveiling-new-accessibility-features/31461/
- Warren, T. (2025, May 15). Apple’s accessibility updates for 2025 include new App Store labels and more. The Verge. https://www.theverge.com/
- Perez, S. (2025, May 15). Apple’s accessibility push continues with new features for iOS, Mac, and Vision Pro. TechCrunch. https://techcrunch.com/
