Mobile app accessibility is no longer just an afterthought; it's a crucial aspect of ensuring that native applications are usable by everyone. With the rise of connected devices and smart technology, it's essential to prioritize inclusive design principles to make mobile apps accessible to people with disabilities.

Native apps aren't limited to smartphones and tablets; they can also include apps on Smart TVs, connected vehicles, wearables, seatback screens in taxis and airplanes, and even connected appliances. Ensuring these apps are accessible can have a significant impact on the disability community.

Why Mobile App Accessibility Matters

Compared to traditional websites, native apps offer unparalleled opportunities for personalization and customer engagement. By leveraging user data and device context, brands can provide tailored experiences that drive loyalty and retention. The stakes are higher than ever, with US app market revenue reaching an all-time high of $44.9 billion in 2023.

However, companies have been slow to catch up on mobile app accessibility, unaware that apps fall under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) just like their websites do. With the European Accessibility Act (EAA) taking effect in June 2026, businesses must ensure compliance across both mobile and web platforms.

The Risks of Inaccessible Apps

As it stands, there is no comprehensive standard for accessibility in native apps, unlike the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) for websites. Despite this, companies are still being sued for inaccessible apps, with 25% of digital lawsuits filed in federal court in 2023 targeting a company that had been sued previously.

In the US, ADA compliance issues often lead to private lawsuits, particularly as mobile apps become more widely used. In contrast, EAA enforcement in the EU will be handled by regulatory bodies rather than lawsuits. Non-compliance can result in fines, removal from EU markets, and reputational risks. Businesses operating in both regions need a dual compliance strategy to meet ADA and EAA requirements.

The Mobile App Accessibility 6-Step Checklist

To ensure that your native app is accessible and usable for everyone, follow these six inclusive design best practices:

1. Design for Varying Screen Sizes

Smaller screens and custom aspect ratios are hallmarks of mobile devices. To account for varying screen sizes:

  • Minimize the amount of information on each screen
  • Provide a reasonable default size for content and touch controls
  • Adapt the length of link text to the viewport width
  • Position form fields below, rather than beside, their labels

2. Focus on Touch Targets and Placement

Higher resolution in mobile devices allows multiple interactive elements to be displayed together on a small screen. To ensure that users can easily target touch targets:

  • Design touch targets to be at least 9 mm high by 9 mm wide
  • Add inactive space surrounding smaller touch targets
  • Position interactive elements where they can be easily reached regardless of how the device is held

By following these six steps, you can elevate your app user experience and ensure that it's accessible to everyone.