Welcome to AccessWireless.org

 

Wireless Product Accessibility Features

The wireless industry is working hard to make handsets as user-friendly as possible for wireless users who are blind or visually impaired, and to make handsets more compatible with hearing aids. It is the industry's goal to meet the FCC mandates regarding handsets that comply with federal rules on hearing aid compatibility. Furthermore, the industry has been working for more than three years with standards setting bodies to improve the testing standard originally adopted by the FCC. This reflects the industry's commitment to producing accessible products that meet the needs of people with disabilities. There are many different types of wireless products and services available today, and getting the right combination is the key to ensuring that you experience the benefits of wireless technology. The most important thing to remember when buying a wireless device is to try it before you buy it. Having done some research prior to shopping for a new phone or service will help you know what features and functions are available and then you can determine which ones are the most important to you.

The Consumer Guide is organized according to the Americans with Disabilities Act five areas of functional limitations:

  • Deaf or Hard of Hearing
    This page will provide you with relevant and up-to-date information to help you select a wireless phone and service that best meets your needs and provide you with information about T-coil coupling and obtain a list of useful accessory options.
  • Blind or Visually Impaired
    This link will include features that may make wireless products and services easier for you to use. At the bottom of the page are links to manufacturers who have products that include one or more of the features listed.
  • Mobility/Manipulation Limitation
    This page will provide you with relevant information on features that make wireless devices "easier to use" for people with mobility limitations.
  • Speech Impairment
    This page provides information on products that make wireless devices accessible to persons with speech impairment.
  • Cognitive Disability
    This page will provide you with a list of features that may make wireless products and services easier for customers with cognitive disabilities.

Each section of the Guide lists some of the features that a person with a particular disability might find useful in a wireless product. Links to manufacturers, who have products that support one or more of the features listed, are at the end of each section. Clicking on the link will take you to a manufacturer's website where you can get more information about its products and find additional call center contact information. Once you have clicked through to a manufacturer's site, take the opportunity to become familiar with the products and see which one might work best for you.