The 14th Microsoft Ability Summit kicks off today, bringing together influential figures to discuss strategies for advancing accessibility and bridging the Disability Divide.
This year’s summit is centred around three key themes: Build, Imagine, and Include. The “Build” theme focuses on creating accessibility and inclusion by drawing insights from individuals with disabilities. “Imagine” explores best practices for designing accessible structures, events, content, and products. And “Include” highlights the issues and opportunities presented by AI for creators, developers, and engineers.
The event will feature discussions with individuals such as Katy Jo Wright and Dave McCarthy, who will share insights into living with chronic health conditions. Additionally, acclaimed deaf creator and performer Leila Hanaumi, international accessibility leaders Sara Minkara and Stephanie Cadieux, and mental health advocate Michelle Williams will be sharing their valuable perspectives.
During the summit, Microsoft will be unveiling several new initiatives aimed at advancing accessible technology. The focus is on the importance of accessible technology in empowering over 1.3 billion individuals with disabilities worldwide. The integration of AI is broadening the realm of possibilities and concurrently, the responsibility to employ it judiciously. Microsoft remains dedicated to leveraging every technological tool at its disposal to enhance accessibility. Previewed technologies include Copilot for Windows, M365’s Accessibility Assistant, and Azure AI for Accessibility, all of which aim to foster a more accessible digital environment.
Furthermore, Microsoft is proud to support ALS Therapy Development Institute and Answer ALS in their efforts to double the clinical and genomic data available for research. This data has facilitated over 300 independent research projects worldwide, underscoring the pivotal role of technology in addressing longstanding challenges.
The summit will also highlight partnerships that promote fundamental rights, including discussions on access to employment opportunities, economic equity, and the importance of connectivity as a foundation for accessibility. Notably, the collaboration between Rijksmuseum and the blind and low vision community to bring detailed text descriptions to over one million art pieces using Azure AI Computer Vision and Azure OpenAI will be showcased.
In addition to the insights and best practices shared during the summit, Microsoft will be releasing four new playbooks and toolkits, providing valuable resources based on their experiences in enhancing physical, event, and digital environments. These resources include a Mental Health toolkit developed in partnership with Mental Health America and best practices from Microsoft’s Global Workplace Services team.
The summit is an important step towards fostering a more accessible future for individuals with disabilities. Viewers can access on-demand content via www.aka.ms/AbilitySummit, and technical support is readily available through Microsoft’s Disability Answer Desk. The commitment to inclusivity and accessibility is paramount in building a more equitable world for all individuals.
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