A charity highlights the need for inclusive AI design as blind individuals face increasing exclusion from AI benefits.

Artificial intelligence (AI) holds enormous potential to enhance lives, yet a stark disparity exists as blind and partially sighted individuals remain largely overlooked in its design and application. The new president of the Royal Society for Blind Children, Tom Pey, has voiced concerns that the exclusion of these individuals not only limits their access to technological advancements but also perpetuates a new form of discrimination. As activities like gaming and immersive experiences flourish in AI contexts, it raises questions about inclusivity and the need for thoughtfully designed solutions that cater to all abilities.

Pey emphasized that the unique challenges faced by blind children are now exacerbated by their inability to engage with AI technologies that sighted peers can utilize. This exclusion distances them from experiences that are becoming increasingly central to social engagement and education. He urged developers and designers to prioritize accessibility in the creation of AI-driven tools and applications, reinforcing the notion that technology should bridge gaps, not widen them. The call for inclusive AI is not just a matter of fairness but essential in fostering a future where all individuals, regardless of ability, can participate fully in society.