Apple is commemorating Accessibility Awareness Day with a full week of new content and features designed to make its products more inclusive for users of varying abilities. From Fitness+ updates to Apple Maps guides, the company has rolled out a range of enhancements.
SignTime Expands to Canada
On May 19, SignTime—Apple's on-demand sign language interpretation service—will become available in Canada. Customers at Apple Stores and using Apple Support can communicate with an interpreter via American Sign Language (ASL). The service is already live in the US (ASL), UK (British Sign Language), and France (French Sign Language).
In addition, Apple Stores worldwide are hosting live sessions this week to demonstrate accessibility features on iPhones, with how-to content also shared on Apple Support's social media channels.
Accessibility Assistant Shortcut
A new Accessibility Assistant shortcut is coming to the Shortcuts app on Mac and Apple Watch. This tool recommends accessibility features based on a user's preferences, making it easier to customize their device.
Fitness+ Updates for Wheelchair Users and More
Apple Fitness+ trainer Bakari Williams will use ASL to highlight features like Audio Hints, which provide descriptive verbal cues for blind or low-vision users. The popular Time to Walk and Time to Run episodes are being rebranded as “Time to Walk or Push” and “Time to Run or Push” respectively, specifically for wheelchair users. Moreover, all Fitness+ workouts and meditations will now include ASL interpretation, closed captioning in six languages, and trainer-demonstrated modifications to accommodate different fitness levels.
Apple Maps: Parks Access for All
A new Apple Maps guide, Parks Access for All, helps users find accessible features, programs, and services in U.S. parks. Created in partnership with Gallaudet University—a leading institution for Deaf, Deafblind, and hard of hearing students—the guide also highlights businesses that prioritize the Deaf community. This initiative was referenced by Tim Cook during his commencement address at Gallaudet.
Apple Music “Saylist” Playlists
Apple Music introduces “Saylist” playlists, each focusing on a specific sound. While designed for vocal practice or speech therapy, the collections are open to anyone interested in exploring sound-focused music.
Additional Features Across Apple Services
Apple TV+ is showcasing movies and shows that represent people with disabilities, including works featuring actors like Marlee Matlin (CODA), Lauren Ridloff (Eternals), and Selma Blair (Introducing, Selma Blair). The App Store is highlighting accessibility-focused apps and developer stories. Apple Books features a new collection of stories by and about people with disabilities, and Apple Podcasts spotlights episodes on how technology advances accessibility.
Apple has also previewed upcoming accessibility features, including Door Detection, Live Captions, and Apple Watch Mirroring, set to arrive later this year. For a comprehensive overview of the week's celebrations, Apple's full press release provides additional details.
Source: 9to5Mac News