In Brazil, more than half of people with disabilities still face difficulties accessing websites and digital platforms. This is what the new edition points toDigital Accessibility Panorama, study conducted by theHand Talk,pioneering startup in the use of artificial intelligence for digital accessibility, in partnership with the instituteOpinion BoxAccording to the research,Only 39% of people with disabilities say that websites meet their needs.
Conducted with participants from three profiles — people with disabilities, accessibility professionals, and web users — the research provides an in-depth understanding of the reality of digital accessibility in Brazil. According to the survey,Simple adjustments, such as increasing font size and contrast, are still the main needs identified — and, at the same time, the most neglected."It is essential to train those who develop websites to identify and implement improvements. This requires investment in technology, education, and a change in mindset within companies," emphasizes Ronaldo Tenório, CEO and co-founder of Hand Talk. "Digital accessibility cannot be treated as an 'extra,' but as a fundamental strategy," he/she/they completes.
Companies are beginning to change but face internal barriers
Although 49% of companies declare to have digital accessibility initiatives,27% of managers face difficulties convincing other departments of their importanceAnd even after the implementation,28% report that cultural barriers are the biggest obstacle to maintaining these initiativesThe study also indicates that 54% of professionals in the field feel a positive cultural change within companies, which may suggest the beginning of a more structured transformation process.
Another relevant fact is that42% of respondents perceive an increase in affirmative vacancies for people with disabilities.However, inclusion is still limited when the digital resources needed for work or access to the selection process are not accessible. Furthermore,31% of consumers with disabilities consider customer service via SAC unsatisfactory., showing that the digital experience as a whole still lacks fundamental adjustments.
Technology and inclusion go hand in hand
Hand Talk is a company that helps break down communication barriers through technology. It is internationally awarded as the Best Social App by the United Nations (UN) and is a pioneer in the use of artificial intelligence for accessibility. In 2024, it reached the mark of 3.3 billion words translated. Companies such as Chevrolet, Hershey's, LG, Sodexo, Samsung, and PwC are part of the startup's client portfolio. At the beginning of 2025, it was acquired by Sorenson, a global leader in communication solutions for deaf and hard-of-hearing people and one of the largest translation companies in the world.
Since 2014, with the launch of theHand Talk Plugin- Accessibility solution for company websites that includes various assistive resources - the company has been developing solutions based on artificial intelligence to make the web more inclusive. The first edition of the Digital Accessibility Panorama took place in 2024, based on data from 2023. Now, in 2025, with information related to 2024, Hand Talk expands the debate on the topic.
"More than offering innovative solutions, we are committed to fostering dialogue, promoting continuous learning, and collaborating with institutions to expand accessibility in all aspects. This study represents a step toward a more inclusive future, where technology and artificial intelligence serve as allies in ensuring the full participation of all people," concludes Tenório.
The full study is availablefree of chargeInterested parties can also access the free courseLeading Digital Accessibility Initiatives, offered by the company to train professionals and managers on the subject.
