Yelp is incorporating more accessibility business attributes and rolling out AI-powered accessibility features

Yelp has unveiled some features to make its platform more inclusive ahead of Disability Pride Month in July. The move is part of Yelp's broader commitment to connect users with businesses that cater to their needs and choices. In recognition that the accessibility needs of its users often go beyond requiring a company to be wheelchair accessible, Yelp is introducing eight new mobility, hearing, and vision accessibility features for businesses. These attributes include features like ADA-compliant entrances and bathrooms, ASL proficiency, and the availability of Braille menus.

However, the announcement that will have the most impact on Yelp's app and web experience is the automatic LLM-powered generation of alternative text for images on business pages for screen readers to leverage. The alternative text describes key elements in photos, such as popular menu items or signature cocktails, providing previously unavailable context to users who depend on screen readers. In addition to this feature, Yelp enhanced its overall screen reader experience and improved color contrast increasing text legibility for users with low vision or color blindness.

Finally, to support businesses in becoming more inclusive, Yelp has launched an Accessibility Resource Hub. This initiative provides tools and information from disability inclusion leaders, including the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD), Disability:IN, Open to All, and The Arc, to help business owners implement and communicate inclusive practices.

These updates reflect Yelp's ongoing commitment to accessibility and inclusion on its platform and in the broader community, and to keep working towards improving the app and web experiences for all users.