TikTok introduces AI-generated ALT text and enhanced accessibility features

TikTok has expanded its accessibility tools with the launch of AI-generated ALT text for photos, a high-contrast mode, and automatic support for bold text settings based on a user’s device preferences. This initiative aims to make the platform more inclusive for people with visual impairments and low vision. The AI-generated ALT text feature will automatically provide spoken image descriptions when creators do not add their own, improving the experience for users who rely on screen readers. TikTok’s move aligns with accessibility efforts made by other platforms like Instagram, which has used AI for image descriptions since 2018. The new high-contrast mode, accessible via the app’s settings, increases the visibility of text and interface elements for users with low contrast sensitivity. Furthermore, the app will now mirror the device’s bold text preference, making all in-app text bolder when enabled. These updates complement TikTok’s existing accessibility features, such as auto-captions, dark mode, text-to-speech, and customizable text size. The company emphasized its commitment to inclusivity, describing accessibility not just as a responsibility but as a space for innovation. These improvements reflect a broader trend among tech platforms to make digital environments more inclusive and user-friendly.