The FCC has recently introduced Section 718 as part of the Communications Act of 1934. The gist of it all… internet browsers on mobile devices must be accessible. This will force the hardware manufacturers to ensure accessibility of the software they bundle on their devices.
“INTRODUCTION
1. In this Second Report and Order, we implement section 718 of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended (Act),1 which was added by section 104 of the Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010 (CVAA)2 to ensure that people with disabilities have access to emerging and innovative advanced communications technologies. Section 718 requires mobile phone manufacturers and mobile service providers that include or arrange for the inclusion of an Internet browser on mobile phones to ensure that the functions of the included browser are accessible to and usable by individuals who are blind or have a visual impairment, unless doing so is not achievable.3 Specifically, we take the following actions: · Affirm that Internet browsers used for advanced communications services (ACS), that are
installed or included by ACS equipment manufacturers or provided by ACS service providers, are software subject to section 716 of the Act.4 · Find that sections 716 and 718 have overlapping requirements with respect to ensuring the accessibility of Internet browsers.”
It an all be found at FCC.gov
