In March, Twitter announced that users would be able to add an “image description” (also known as alt text) to photos uploaded to tweets. This feature allows people who require image descriptions, such as users of assistive technology (AT) to participate more fully in the Twitter experience.

Specifically, this user-enabled feature allows the tweeter to add a description to the image; enabling AT users (e.g., screen reader, text-to-speech) to appreciate the tweets’ images. According to Twitter’s CEO, this was the fourth most requested feature from the developer community.

While this feature provides more access to the content shared, a user must first enable it in settings.  It is also important to note that this feature is currently available only via Twitter’s phone apps and the Twitter web page.

Visit the Office of Accessibility site for more information about social media accessibility.