Accessibility software is a life-changing technology. It opens doors to everyday devices and to sport, helping people connect with community and independence. Apple continues its long-standing work in making phones, tablets, computers, and internet culture more accessible—evolving its products to simplify life for people with disabilities. 

December 3, 2022, marks the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, an annual observance that promotes understanding of disability issues and mobilizes support for the dignity, rights, and well-being of persons with disabilities. This year’s theme, Transformative Solutions for Inclusive Development: The Role of Innovation in Fueling an Accessible and Equitable World, underscores how technology and inclusive design can shape a more accessible future. 

CAF is proud to work with companies like Apple that champion these values and collaborate to make technology and sport more inclusive. 

Apple’s Longstanding Partnership in Accessibility 

Apple’s work in accessibility has included features co-developed with the Challenged Athletes Foundation and the Lakeshore Foundation, such as fitness tracking tailored for wheelchair workouts and a “time to roll” notification—an adaptation of the “time to stand” reminder—for wheelchair users. 

“Apple originally worked with the Challenged Athletes Foundation and the Lakeshore Foundation to develop these features,” said Jay Blahnik, Apple’s Director of Fitness and Health Technologies. 

Building on this innovation, Apple has introduced Apple Watch Mirroring, which lets users control their watch entirely from a paired iPhone. This means the watch’s apps, health sensors, and interface can be accessed using familiar iPhone accessibility tools such as VoiceOver, Switch Control, AssistiveTouch, Magnifier, and image and people detection. 

CAF has been proud to walk alongside Apple in developing these solutions, ensuring that accessibility tools meet the needs of athletes with physical disabilities. 

“To celebrate International Day of Persons with Disabilities, CAF is happy to be a resource for Apple as they continually evolve their technology,” said Kristine Entwistle, CAF CEO. 

Apple’s short film The Greatest highlights how individuals with disabilities use technology to work, play, and engage with the world—reinforcing the message that accessibility benefits everyone. 

More CAF Partners Driving Inclusion 

Alongside Apple, several CAF sponsors are leading the way in adaptive sports technology and inclusive innovation: 

• Accenture: Using AI to empower disability inclusion. 

• Össur: Advancing prosthetic design with movement pattern detection. 

• Nike: Developing FlyEase shoes for easy entry, including a Converse Chuck Taylor All Star FlyEase launch with CAF athlete Alex Ruiz. 

• Strava: Adding wheelchair and handcycle tracking features informed by CAF athletes. 

• Zwift: Introducing a handcycle avatar for greater representation in virtual cycling. 

• EōS Fitness: Offering free gym memberships to U.S. athletes with physical disabilities. 

• 100%: Collaborating with athletes to improve lens technology for sports performance. 

• Team Toyota: Providing up to $1,000 toward adaptive vehicle equipment. 

• Smoothie King: Supporting athletes’ nutrition with a versatile menu. 

The Power of Accessibility in Sport 

Accessibility software and technology are more than conveniences—they are essential, life-changing tools that connect people to sport, community, and independence. From wearable devices that track training to AI that supports inclusion, each advancement removes barriers and opens doors. 

CAF is proud to stand alongside partners committed to innovating for accessibility and to helping athletes with physical disabilities reach their goals. 

Continue the Momentum 

Support the development of technology and programs that break barriers in sport. Your contribution helps ensure athletes with physical disabilities have the tools and opportunities they need to succeed.