The European Accessibility Act (EAA) is a directive (law) that requires certain products and services in the European Union to be accessible to people with disabilities. This means they must be usable by people who are blind, deaf, have mobility issues, have learning or cognitive disabilities, or other functional limitations. The law applies mainly to things that are widely used by the public and can have a big impact on daily life.
Here’s our simple, plain English guide to what products and services are covered under the EAA. Keep in mind that EAA compliance not only involves meeting technical accessibility requirements, but also the administrative obligations.
Products That Must Be Accessible
Computers and Operating Systems
These include:
- Desktop computers (e.g., a Dell PC)
- Laptops (e.g., a MacBook)
- Tablets (e.g., an iPad)
- The software that runs them (e.g., Windows 11 or Android)
What this means in real life:
Someone using a screen reader should be able to set up and use a new laptop, navigate the interface, install programs, and adjust settings without needing sighted assistance.
Smartphones and Mobile Devices
Includes mobile phones and the operating systems (like iOS or Android) they run.
Example:
An iPhone must allow users with hearing impairments to use closed captions in videos or voicemail transcription.
Self-Service Terminals
Devices people use without help in public places:
- ATMs at banks
- Ticket machines at train stations
- Parking meters on city streets
- Airport check-in kiosks
Example:
A visually impaired person should be able to use a ticket kiosk with voice instructions and a tactile keyboard.
Televisions and TV Services
Covers:
- Smart TVs
- Remote controls
- Menus and on-screen guides
- Set-top boxes
Example:
The TV menu must be accessible for someone who is blind, using speech output or easy keyboard navigation.
E-Readers
Includes:
- Kindle, Kobo, and similar devices
- The apps used to read books
Example:
A person with dyslexia should be able to adjust text size, spacing, and contrast while reading a book on their e-reader.
Services That Must Be Accessible
Telecommunications
Covers services like:
- Mobile phone plans
- Internet packages
- Customer service apps
Example:
A person with a mobility disability should be able to sign up for a phone plan online without needing to visit a store.
Audiovisual Media Services
Applies to:
- Video streaming (e.g., Netflix, Disney+)
- TV catch-up apps
- Online video platforms (e.g., YouTube)
Example:
Someone who is deaf should be able to turn on captions while watching a movie on Netflix.
Banking Services
Includes:
- Online banking portals
- Mobile banking apps
- ATMs and payment terminals
Example:
A customer using voice input should be able to check their balance or transfer money using their bank’s app.
E-Commerce
Covers all online shops and marketplaces:
- Amazon
- eBay
- Smaller webshops
Example:
A person using only a keyboard (no mouse) should be able to browse products, select items, and complete checkout on a clothing store website.
Transport Booking and Info Services
Includes:
- Websites and apps to book flights, trains, buses, ferries
- Information boards at stations
Example:
An elderly person with poor eyesight should be able to enlarge text when viewing train schedules on their phone or tablet.
E-Books
Applies to:
- The e-books themselves
- The apps or software used to read or purchase them
Example:
An app that sells e-books must work with a screen reader and let users change font styles and colors for easier reading.
Digital Interfaces Must Be Accessible Too
All of these products and services must also make sure their websites, mobile apps, and PDF documents are usable by everyone.
This includes:
- Navigating with a keyboard
- Using screen readers
- Understanding forms and buttons
- Accessing alternative text for images
- Having text descriptions for videos (captions and transcripts)
Why This Ultimately Matters
Looking beyond EAA compliance, accessibility is important because it ensures more people have access to products and services. For example, someone can:
- Buy a phone online
- Book a doctor’s appointment
- Watch TV with closed captions
- Use a ticket machine without needing help
My Name is Kris Rivenburgh
I wrote the book on Digital Accessibility and Compliance. My company is Accessible.org and we’d love to help you with EAA compliance.
You can email me directly (kris@accessible.org) or learn more about our products and services and send me a message on Accessible.org.