The Assistive Technology Industry Association (ATIA) hosts a conference each year to showcase the latest in assistive technology. For 2025, the conference was held January 30–February 1 in Orlando, Florida, and had:
- Over 125 exhibitors
- Over 2,150 virtual attendees
- Over 2,950 in-person attendees
In-person attendees included BridgingApps’ own Amy Fuchs (Program Manager) and Amy Barry (Digital Marketing Lead), who also had the honor of presenting “Bridging Social Divides: Inclusive Tech Tips from BridgingApps” on Thursday afternoon, January 30. Below, Amy Barry shares her personal-experience report.
Amy Barry on ATIA 2025
What an incredible experience it was! Our presentation focused on using accessible technology to empower individuals and communities, reduce social isolation, and improve quality of life. It was a privilege to share practical strategies and inclusive tech solutions that can make a real difference for underserved groups, including people with disabilities.
[In the U.S., about 40 percent of people with chronic health conditions also have social-isolation issues—which are a risk factor for other health problems. And communities with limited technology access tend to also have higher disability rates.]
Hitting the Expo Floor
The ATIA Expo was also a highlight! It was wonderful to explore the latest innovations in assistive technology and to connect with amazing companies in the field. We learned so much, and we were thrilled to catch up with friends (old and new) and with our partners from:
- Avaz [their augmentative-and-alternative-communication (AAC) app comes in multiple languages, and has over 100,000 users worldwide]
- CoughDrop [AAC technology to “bring out the voices of those with complex communication needs,” needs which are often due to Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, or other disabilities]
- Lingraphica [provider of user-friendly AAC communication devices, language apps, and online-therapy software]
- PRC-Saltillo [specializes in customized AAC for people with complex communication disorders]
- SightStand [their smartphone stand allows magnifier apps to be used hands-free]
- Smartbox Assistive Technology [UK-based global provider of AAC solutions for children and adults; emphasizes independent living]
- Time Timer [makers of the world’s top visual timer, which uses a shape-shifting colored disc as its “clock face”; available in a variety of digital and physical styles]
- Tobii Dynavox [provides a wealth of communication devices]
- UbiDuo [their extra-portable 3 SGD (Speech Generating Device) generates audible speech from typed text, and includes a two-way-communication option]
And many more! The collaboration and innovation were truly inspiring, and it’s exciting to see how companies are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in assistive technology.
[A full Exhibitor List, with bios, is available online.]
What’s New in Apple Accessibility
Among the conference sessions, one standout was “Apple Accessibility Updates.” Apple continues to lead the way in inclusive technology development. They shared some exciting new features, from enhanced voice control to vision and hearing technology, that make their devices even more accessible.
The whole conference was an amazing week of learning, networking, and sharing ideas. We’re so grateful to have been part of these conversations, and we look forward to helping continue the work that ATIA is encouraging, in bridging divides and fostering inclusivity through tech.