Apple is preparing to roll out a series of accessibility upgrades in 2026 that could significantly change how millions of people use their phones, tablets and computers. The new features include eye-controlled wheelchair operation, AI-powered image descriptions and automatic subtitle generation for videos, as detailed in a guide from the Motability Foundation.
Eye-controlled wheelchair feature
One of the most notable developments is a new feature for Apple Vision Pro that allows compatible powered wheelchairs to be controlled using eye movements. The system uses the headset's eye-tracking technology as an alternative to a conventional joystick.
Apple says the feature is intended for compatible alternative drive systems and is initially launching with Tolt and LUCI systems in the US. The company states it can work in various lighting conditions without the frequent recalibration associated with some other eye-tracking systems.
The Motability Foundation says the technology could offer a new form of hands-free independence for people with conditions affecting movement. However, it requires a compatible alternative drive system and the appropriate Vision Pro set-up.
Voice Control and AI descriptions
Apple is also making Voice Control more flexible with Apple Intelligence. Users will be able to describe what they want to select in natural language rather than remembering precise commands or button names. For example, someone could ask the device to tap a particular coloured folder or select something visible on screen.
Apple says its Apple Intelligence-powered Voice Control will be available in English in the UK, US, Canada and Australia. For people who are blind or have low vision, Apple is upgrading VoiceOver and Magnifier with AI-powered image descriptions, providing more detailed information about photographs, scanned documents, bills and other visual material.
On supported iPhones, users can use the Action button to ask questions about what is visible through the camera, including follow-up questions. Apple warns these tools should not be relied upon in situations where someone could be harmed or injured.
Subtitles and adaptive accessories
For deaf and hard-of-hearing users, generated subtitles will create transcriptions for videos that lack captions, including personal recordings, clips from friends and family, and streamed content. Apple says subtitles are generated on-device, keeping speech recognition private.
Apple has also teamed up with designer Bailey Hikawa and PopSockets on an adaptive MagSafe accessory called the Hikawa Grip & Stand for iPhone, designed for people with difficulties in grip, strength or hand mobility. The Motability Foundation's guide says it costs £44.95 in the UK.
Cost and availability
The accessibility software features are built into Apple's operating systems rather than sold as a separate subscription. Apple says the accessibility updates using Apple Intelligence will roll out later in 2026, with availability varying by feature, device, language and region.
The Motability Foundation's guide says the new updates are expected to arrive alongside Apple's autumn software releases. Users can generally find accessibility controls through Settings > Accessibility, with some features available through accessibility shortcuts. Apple already offers Eye Tracking on compatible iPhones and iPads, allowing users with reduced mobility to navigate devices using their eyes without additional hardware.
