The AI Tool Enhancing Web Access For Those With Color Vision Deficiencies

Parham Aarabi, a University of Toronto researcher, has developed an AI tool, named PRE, that could change how e-commerce sites cater to users with color vision deficiencies.

AI-Powered Solutions for Improved Web Navigation

“Around 8% to 10% of the population has a type of color-blindness,” said Aarabi according to Texh Xplore.

“I wanted to see how this might impact web navigation.”

Aarabi’s AI model simulates the browsing behaviors of virtual users, tracking interactions like page pauses, cart additions, and responses to discounts. 

The tool’s insights reveal that while colorful images typically attract users, those with color blindness respond differently, favoring monochrome imagery. 

By altering a website’s design to simulate various types of color blindness, Aarabi discovered that color blind users are 30% more likely to engage with less colorful images. 

This finding is important for designers to consider as they strive to create inclusive online environments.

The Future of Accessible E-Commerce Design

Aarabi’s research is paving the way for more accessible e-commerce experiences.

By integrating PRE’s insights, web designers can create sites that are not only visually appealing to the general population but also fully accessible to those with color vision deficiencies. 

“There’s a lot of worry, even within the tech community, about AI taking over or replacing us in some capacity,” said Aarabi.

“If we can make AI more humanlike in some way, build in some empathy and have it mirror the reactions that humans have, we could dispel some of those concerns.”

Aarabi plans to further utilize PRE to address other accessibility barriers, such as dyslexia and motor impairments, underscoring the potential of AI to make the digital world more inclusive.