Blind Woman Masters iPhone With Accessibility Trainer's Help
Florent Mégelas, a seasoned digital accessibility trainer with advanced cataracts, is helping Madame Schneider, a visually impaired individual, master her iPhone. This hands-on assistance comes as the European Accessibility Act (EAA) aims to improve digital inclusion across Europe, yet challenges persist in implementation and enforcement.
Mégelas, who has been supporting visually impaired people at AVH Paris since 1994, uses specialized equipment like an oversized keyboard and a braille display in his office. He guides Madame Schneider weekly, configuring her iPhone step by step using VoiceOver, Apple's screen reader. During their sessions, Madame Schneider learns to add appointments to her calendar, demonstrating her growing independence.
The EAA, adopted by the European Commission, mandates that companies ensure their digital services are accessible to all, including those with disabilities. It specifies criteria such as keyboard navigation and compatibility with screen readers, aligning with accessibility standards like those set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). However, progress has been slow due to insufficient training, lack of inclusive culture, and low awareness among developers. Moreover, enforcement agencies struggle with coordination and staffing, potentially limiting the EAA's impact.
While Mégelas and Schneider work together to overcome accessibility barriers, the EAA's effectiveness remains to be seen. Associations have issued legal notices to major distributors like Picard and Carrefour, acknowledging shortcomings and committing to improvements. However, as of July 2025, no specific companies have publicly announced concrete changes following these notices. French legislation, complex and confusing, has left many sites still unusable despite obligations since 2005 and the EAA's addition in 2025.
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