Just ahead of Global Accessibility Awareness Day, Apple has given us an early peek at some of the coolest accessibility updates headed our way later this year. And whether you use an iPhone, Mac, Apple Watch, or even the Vision Pro, there’s something in here for you.
These features will roll out across iOS 19, iPadOS 19, macOS 16, watchOS 12, and visionOS 3, all expected to be unveiled during WWDC 2025 on June 9, with public launches likely in September. Let’s break down the most exciting bits.
Key Accessibility Features Coming to Apple Devices
Accessibility Nutrition Labels (App Store)
Apple’s App Store is getting transparency vibes . Apps will soon display Accessibility Nutrition Labels, showing which features (like VoiceOver support or Dynamic Text) are built-in. This could be a game-changer for users who rely on assistive tools.
Magnifier Comes to Mac
A much-requested upgrade: the Magnifier app is finally headed to the Mac. It works by using an iPhone or USB camera to zoom in and help users read text on nearby objects. Think, real-world magnifying, Mac-style.
Vehicle Motion Cues on Mac
Motion sickness from screen use in moving vehicles? Apple’s Vehicle Motion Cues feature is expanding to Mac, helping reduce sensory confusion while on the go.
New Accessibility Reader
A fresh Accessibility Reader experience will help users with low vision or dyslexia. Think fully customizable fonts, colors, and spacing, all system-wide across iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Vision Pro.
Live Captions on Apple Watch
The Apple Watch is getting Live Captions which is perfect for catching what your iPhone hears in real-time, transcribed right on your wrist. Handy (literally).
Vision Pro Gets Enhanced Zoom
Vision Pro users will get a boosted Zoom feature, using the main camera to magnify everything, yes, even your surroundings. That’s serious spatial magic.
Full Braille Note Taker
Braille Access will turn iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Vision Pro into full-featured braille note takers. Braille users, this one’s for you.
Eye Tracking Just Got Smarter
Using Eye Tracking on iPhone and iPad? You’ll soon be able to make selections with either a dwell timer or a switch, giving you more flexibility and control. Plus, Apple is making it way easier to type with Eye Tracking or Switch Control, thanks to a redesigned keyboard dwell timer, fewer steps when typing with switches, and even QuickPath support (yes, swipe typing!) on both iPhone and Vision Pro.
Head Tracking in Full Effect
Head Tracking is also getting some love. This feature will let you control your iPhone or iPad just by moving your head — similar to Eye Tracking, but great for those who prefer an alternate method.
Brain Control Is Now a Thing (Seriously)
And here’s the wildest one: iOS, iPadOS, and visionOS will support a new protocol designed for Brain Computer Interfaces (BCIs). That’s right, this tech lets users with severe mobility disabilities control their device without moving a muscle. It’s early days for BCI, but Apple’s getting ready for that next-gen future.
Better Personal Voice, Faster Too
Apple’s Personal Voice feature, which replicates your voice using AI, is getting smarter. With just 10 recorded phrases, it can now create a natural-sounding voice in under a minute. Perfect for users at risk of speech loss.
CarPlay Accessibility Upgrades
Apple’s also thinking about the road. CarPlay will support Large Text, and Sound Recognition will now pick up on ambient sounds like sirens or a crying baby.
The Big Picture
Apple’s commitment to accessibility isn’t just skin-deep. These updates show a thoughtful, systemic approach to making its ecosystem more usable for everyone. Whether it’s real-time captions, better screen magnification, or simplified text display, Apple is building tools that empower people to engage with their devices on their own terms.
And this is just the start. Expect more deep dives when WWDC 2025 kicks off next month. Until then, hats off to Cupertino for prioritizing inclusion, as always.
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