We just wrapped up the 15th annual Microsoft Ability Summit, hosting a virtual gathering of more than 20,000 attendees from 164 nations, all eager to explore the future of AI and accessibility. Microsoft has been a pioneer in accessibility for over 30 years, beginning with the early accessibility features in Windows 95. Fast forward to today, we’re accelerating innovation like never before, driven by both hardware and software advancements powered by AI, with people with disabilities leading the charge.
Accessibility goes beyond being just an enhancement; it’s a fundamental right that makes technology more user-friendly for everyone. We see evidence of this in how people globally are harnessing Microsoft technologies. Take, for instance, Microsoft 365’s Copilot, which is profoundly enhancing workplace productivity. Millions use Edge monthly for Read Aloud, while over a million use Immersive Reader to make webpages more accessible. Partners like Tobii Dynavox and the Special Olympics are using AI to extend these benefits globally, and these are just the highlights of today’s event!
Here’s what’s new at the 2025 Ability Summit.
This year, we introduced the Xbox Adaptive Joystick, now available exclusively at the Microsoft Store. Considering there are 429 million disabled gamers worldwide, we understand their diverse needs and preferences. This joystick is a wired controller, crafted to support players with limited mobility, and it seamlessly integrates into any gaming setup. Crafted in collaboration with the Gaming and Disability community, it’s a valuable addition to our collection of adaptive tools, including the joystick, adaptive kit, and Xbox Adaptive Controller. More details can be found at Xbox Support.
Microsoft’s commitment doesn’t stop at hardware. Our packaging is designed to be both accessible and sustainable—goodbye to plastic clamshells! Today, we unveiled the Accessible Packaging Design Guide at the Summit, offering insights and strategies to create packaging that enhances user experience and trust.
During the event, Microsoft teams and partners showcased their efforts to push the boundaries of accessibility through tech innovation. Tobii Dynavox is integrating Microsoft Neural Voice, a feature of Azure AI Speech that enhances assistive communication devices with personalized options using eye gaze. Neural Voices support over 50 languages in their apps TD Talk and TD Phone.
Additionally, Microsoft Teams will enhance the experience for users relying on Sign Language View. By later this year, Teams will automatically identify and highlight sign language users as speakers. These modifications are part of our mission to make communication clear and accessible.
Meanwhile, Copilot is proving to be a game-changer for neurodiverse talent. A recent EY study revealed that 76% of neurodiverse employees saw improved performance with Copilot’s assistance in communication and focus. We shared stories from four early adopters in New York, illustrating the impact of these new features like Team Reflow and PowerPoint Designer.
In the realm of AI, Narrator will soon benefit from rich image descriptions, thanks to AI enhancements coming this spring to the Windows Insider Preview. The Azure AI Foundry also rolled out UI improvements to ease cognitive load. Furthermore, over 5 million learners have joined our Accessibility Skilling program—offered in collaboration with partners like Teach Access and Computacenter UK. This virtual training, which keeps participants updated on the latest in AI, is accessible for integration into learning management systems.
Furthermore, the Speech Accessibility Project led by the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has achieved a significant breakthrough, improving speech recognition accuracy by up to 60% for non-standard speech. Similarly, developers can harness GitHub Copilot to create accessible code.
The Special Olympics shared how Copilot has transformed training for coaches and athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities for the upcoming Games in Turin, Italy.
This remarkable progress is made possible by those who prioritize accessibility in technology design. In doing so, we ensure that these advancements benefit everyone, fostering a more efficient workplace. This is beautifully exemplified by Dave Dame’s story, Microsoft’s Senior Director of Accessibility and Human Factors, showing how accessible tech empowers leadership.
Reflecting on over three decades of accessibility dedication, Microsoft’s journey shows how we’ve enriched our tools and technology for all users, from the earliest innovations to groundbreaking modern developments. AI holds immense promise to revolutionize sectors across the board. Our approach will remain grounded and responsible, ensuring the latest tech reaches those who stand to gain the most.
Whether this was your first or your 15th Ability Summit, we appreciate your participation. We hope you’ve discovered a skill, feature, or insight that enhances your use of technology. All sessions will be available for replay after the event.
Let’s continue this journey together.
