While many people associate assistive technology with specialized devices that are expensive or hard to find, many mainstream technology devices have started supporting accessibility features and built-in assistive technology that can make specialty tools more financially and publicly accessible for all. Tablets are a great example of how mainstream technology can be used as assistive technology, as they provide access to a wealth of information and can provide users with access to life-changing applications for communication, vision, and so much more. Here are features to look for when buying a tablet for users with vision loss, part of the Mainstream Technology and Low Vision post series.
Benefits of tablets for low vision access
Touch screen tablets are a powerful example of mainstream technology that can function as assistive technology for users with visual impairments. Tablets combine the features of a smartphone and laptop computer to create a portable device that can be used for work, play, education, hobbies, and so much more. While a tablet may not be able to completely replace a computer or smartphone, they offer several benefits for users with low vision, including:
- Lightweight, portable design that does not emit noise (e.g. fans) and can be positioned close to the face
- Tablet display can be angled or re-positioned within the user’s field of vision or underneath a lined bifocal.
- Option for touchscreen input, which may be more intuitive than a mouse/keyboard
- Pinch-to-zoom for enlarging a specific area of the screen
- Ability to use web applications in addition to mobile applications
- Specialty applications can be used to provide access to essential assistive technology tools like communication apps (AAC), alternative input devices, and more.
Many applications that are available for desktop computers such as Microsoft Office are also available for tablets, making it possible for users to access applications across multiple devices.
Related links
- Mainstream Technology and Low Vision: Computers
- Why I Prefer My Schoolwork Digitally: Updated Edition
Tablet operating systems and accessibility features
Examples of popular operating systems for tablets include iOS/iPadOS and Android, with many popular tablet brands developing their own custom Android builds optimized for their devices. Tablets offer several built-in accessibility features for accessing information with visual impairments, as well as options for downloading third-party applications that can be used alongside existing features. Examples of low vision accessibility features for tablets include:
- Adjustable font size with options for large print
- Increased contrast for text and icons
- Dark mode, invert colors, or other color filters
- Screen magnification (separate from pinch-to-zoom gesture)
- Gesture-based screen reader, which may offer support for a braille display
- Text-to-speech or read aloud for reading content on the screen
Unlike computers, users cannot generally install a different operating system on their tablet or use a virtual machine, so it is important that users consider what type of applications they want to use with their tablet, and ensure they are available. Some applications may only be available for iOS or only available for Android, or subscription services may not support cross-platform access (e.g. a subscription purchased for an Android app is not supported for iOS). For users that rely on specific applications to access information, this will need to be considered when choosing an operating system.
Related links
- How To Make iPad Accessible for Low Vision
- Low Vision Accessibility Settings For Android Phones
- A to Z of Assistive Technology for Reading Digital Text
- iPhone Accessibility Settings For Occipital Stroke
Screen size and low vision: is bigger always better?
When choosing a tablet with low vision, it is important to note that a larger screen size is not necessarily more accessible or easier to see when it comes to visual access. Visual impairment is a spectrum, not a binary, and the ideal screen size for individual users with low vision depends on a number of factors, including:
- Visual field or field of view/field of vision. For users with visual field neglect or reduced peripheral vision, a smaller screen may be easier to position within the field of vision so the entire screen can be viewed at once or with minimal movement. Users can also hold smaller devices with their hands or position themselves closer to the screen.
- Visual complexity of applications. An app that has a lot of small icons or lots of text may run off the edge of the screen on a smaller device. This is something to consider for productivity applications that are used in school or in the workplace.
- For users that plan to use Split View or multitasking features, a smaller screen may not provide a large enough viewing area for running two applications at once.
- A larger screen may be more challenging to position without the use of a case or tablet stand, and may also be heavier/less portable.
- Larger screens are generally designed for use in landscape or horizontal orientations, similar to a computer. Smaller screens generally prioritize portrait or vertical orientations, similar to a smartphone.
Tablet screen sizes are generally divided into four categories:
- Mini tablets: less than 8 inches
- Small tablets: between 8 inches and 8.9 inches
- Mid-size tablets: between 9 inches and 11 inches
- Large tablets (often marketed as pro models): greater than 12 inches
For many users with low vision, a mid-size tablet is a popular choice for reading, entertainment, and accessing applications without running into scaling issues.
Mirroring a tablet on a larger screen
Another option for making a tablet easier to see is to mirror or cast the display to a larger screen. This can include using tools like AirPlay or Google Cast to connect to other devices, as well as using wired cables or wireless displays to connect to a larger screen. Tablet screen mirroring functionality is also built into many apps such as videoconferencing tools, though the screen resolution may be reduced when using a larger screen.
Related links
Internal storage for tablets
Unlike computers that can support external storage, tablet users are generally limited to their device’s internal storage capacity. Large applications or copies of books can fill up storage space quickly, and devices that have limited storage space often have a slower speed or may run into issues when installing software updates due to low storage. It is recommended that users purchase as much storage as possible, especially if they will be using the tablet for large files like eTextbooks or accessing visual content like photos, 3D models, or videos.
Strategies that can help with managing tablet storage for users with low vision include:
- Using cloud storage applications to back up files instead of only keeping them stored on the device.
- Offloading applications and clearing app caches to remove non-essential data.
- Remove downloaded videos when they are no longer needed— video content can take up a lot of space.
- Consider using web applications or lite applications instead of downloading mobile apps, which may help with reducing storage.
Software updates also take up a considerable amount of device storage, so users should consider buying more storage than they think they need to ensure that their device runs smoothly and receives security updates for years to come.
Related links
- Ten Questions To Ask When Buying Digital Textbooks
- Implementing Shared Folders For Accessible Materials
- How I Organize Digital Files For My Classes
Searching for accessible apps
Accessibility means something different to everyone— some users focus on screen reader access, others focus on magnification and display scaling, and others may focus on braille access or alternative input devices. Accessibility can also vary between platforms— an app may have additional accessibility features on one operating system that aren’t available for another. There are several online forums, listservs, email newsletters, and other resources on accessible apps for low vision and information about software bugs that can impact access to assistive technology features.
Examples of popular resources that share accessible apps for low vision and discuss software accessibility include AppleVis, Accessible Android, Reddit groups for blind users, text-based social media platforms (e.g. Mastodon, BlueSky, X), and assistive technology groups (which may also host in-person or hybrid meetups).
Battery life and charging
Tablets often have a longer battery life than laptops, though power users or users that multitask/switch between apps frequently may still need to plan for charging their devices during the day or while they are still in use. This is especially important for users that watch a lot of video content, use their devices throughout the school day, or work with other highly visual applications. Unlike laptops that often have specific chargers that are expensive to purchase separately, tablet charging cables are available in a variety of colors, materials, and lengths to make it easier for users to keep their devices charged and ready to use.
Related links
Tablet screens and screen protectors
For low vision users, tablet screen protectors can serve three purposes: protecting the screen against damage, making the screen easier to see, and protecting the screen for privacy. All of these types of screen protectors can also help with reducing glare from overhead or environmental lighting, which can make the screen easier to see.
When it comes to protecting the screen against damage, tempered glass screen protectors and covers can be useful for protecting devices against scratches and cracks, though users may need to enable a screen protector mode or enable touch accommodations if they have trouble using the touch screen.
Other screen protectors or screen filters can be used to change the texture of the device, or to add a tinted or colored filter to the display. For example, a paper-like textured screen protector can be added to a tablet for drawing or writing, or a colored filter can be used to reduce the intensity of bright colors beyond built-in accessibility settings. These screen protectors may only be available for specific tablet models, so this is something else to consider when choosing a tablet for low vision.
Tablet screen protectors for privacy are essential for blind users or those that use screen readers, as it prevents others from being able to see the screen. These can include anti-glare protectors that make it impossible to view the screen from an angle (e.g. over a shoulder) or from far away. Tools like a screen curtain can also be enabled on the device to turn off the display when using a screen reader or braille display.
Choosing a tablet stand/case for low vision
Some users with low vision prefer to hold a tablet with one or two hands close to their face, though this can get tiring with large screens or heavier devices. Choosing a tablet case or stand is almost as important as choosing the right tablet for low vision to ensure that it can be positioned in a way that the user can easily interact with the device.
One popular option for tablet cases is a folio case that folds into a stand, so the user can adjust the viewing angle or position their device at an angle. Other options included slanted tablet stands, kickstands, cases with built-in keyboards, or cases/stands that can be mounted to a desk or chair.
When choosing a tablet cover or case, it is important to make sure that it does not blend into commonly used surfaces like furniture, car interiors, backpacks, or blankets, as this can make it challenging to locate visually. Bright colors, stickers, and high contrast designs are helpful for low vision users when it comes to locating devices.
Related links
Connecting peripheral devices
Peripheral devices are hardware components that can be connected to a tablet to enhance its functionality or make it easier to use. Many peripheral devices are developed for a specific tablet or brand (e.g. Apple Pencil), while others may be universal or platform agnostic, meaning they can work with multiple devices. Examples of peripheral devices for tablets include:
- Keyboard
- Headphones
- Touchpad or mouse
- Stylus
- External camera for magnification
- Braille display
- Alternative input devices
Many peripheral devices for tablets are wireless and connect to the device using Bluetooth, which does not require an internet connection.
Related links
- Apple Pencil Customizations For Writing With Low Vision
- iOS Magnifier and Low Vision Accessibility
- Mainstream Technology and Low Vision: Headphones
Summary of features to consider when choosing a tablet for low vision
- Operating systems and accessibility features. While many operating systems offer similar built-in accessibility features, the options for customization may vary between platforms.
- Screen size. Smaller devices may be more portable and easier to position within a narrow field of view, while larger devices may have a wider layout that can make it easier to access visually complex apps.
- Internal storage. Purchase as much internal storage as possible to ensure the device runs smoothly and can receive security updates.
- Accessible apps. Some applications are only available on a single platform, or may have varying accessibility between platforms.
- Battery life. Power users may need to plan for charging their device more frequently and have charging cables available.
- Screen protectors. Screen protectors can serve many purposes, including protecting the device against damage, making visual information easier to see, and protecting user privacy.
- Tablet covers and cases. Choose an option that allows for adjusting the angle of the display or that can be used comfortably. Ensure that covers and cases do not blend into common surfaces, which can make them more challenging to locate.
- Peripheral devices. Tools like keyboards and styluses can make a tablet easier to use with low vision, though may only work with specific tablets or models.
Published August 24, 2017. Updated July 2025