Apple has previewed a major set of accessibility upgrades coming later this year with iOS 27, iPadOS 27, macOS 27, tvOS 27, and visionOS 27. Powered by Apple Intelligence, the updates introduce smarter VoiceOver tools, AI-generated subtitles, natural language Voice Control, and even eye-controlled wheelchair support through Apple Vision Pro.
The announcement arrives ahead of WWDC 2026 and Global Accessibility Awareness Day, continuing Apple’s yearly tradition of previewing accessibility features before unveiling its next-generation software updates. This year’s changes heavily focus on Apple Intelligence and on-device AI features designed to improve accessibility while keeping user data private.
One of the biggest updates is coming to VoiceOver. Apple says VoiceOver’s new Image Explorer can provide far more detailed descriptions of photos, scanned documents, bills, and other visual content across the system. Users can also press the Action button on iPhone to ask questions about what the camera sees and receive follow-up answers in natural language.
Magnifier is getting similar Apple Intelligence upgrades for users with low vision. The app can now answer spoken questions about documents and surroundings while also supporting voice commands like “zoom in” and “turn on flashlight.” Apple says the feature works inside a high-contrast interface designed to make visual information easier to read.
Voice Control is also becoming much smarter in iOS 27. Instead of memorizing exact labels or numbered overlays, users can now navigate apps using natural language. Apple says users can speak commands such as “tap the purple folder” or “tap the guide about best restaurants” when using apps like Files or Apple Maps.
Accessibility Reader is receiving one of its biggest updates yet. Apple Intelligence now helps the feature better handle complex layouts, including scientific papers, documents with multiple columns, tables, and embedded images. Users will also be able to generate quick summaries and translate articles while preserving formatting, fonts, and colors.
Apple is also bringing AI-generated subtitles to videos across iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, and Apple Vision Pro. The feature automatically creates captions for videos that do not already include subtitles, including personal recordings, shared clips, and online content. Apple says subtitle generation happens on-device for privacy.
Another standout feature is eye-controlled wheelchair support for Apple Vision Pro. Using the headset’s eye-tracking technology, compatible power wheelchair users will be able to control alternative drive systems without relying on a joystick. The feature will initially support Tolt and LUCI systems in the U.S. through Bluetooth and wired connections.
Additional accessibility updates include Vehicle Motion Cues for visionOS to help reduce motion sickness, face gesture controls for Vision Pro, improved Made for iPhone hearing aid pairing, Larger Text support on tvOS, Name Recognition support in more than 50 languages, a new FaceTime API for sign language interpretation apps, and Sony Access controller support across iOS, iPadOS, and macOS.
Apple also confirmed that the Hikawa Grip & Stand for iPhone is now available worldwide through the Apple Store online in three new colors. The adaptive MagSafe accessory was designed with accessibility in mind and developed with input from people with disabilities affecting grip, strength, and mobility.
(via Apple)
