The pandemic popularized video-conferencing platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Webex in the workplace and daily life. However, that doesn’t mean these platforms comply with the accessibility standards.

“Reported problems include lack of—or inferior—captioning; ineffective display of sign language interpreters; the inability of blind or low-vision users to find and use volume controls; and insufficient user control of accessibility tools. Further, there is no easy way to use telecommunications relay services (TRS) on video conferencing platforms,” said the FCC in a statement about these platforms.

The Federal Communications Commission has voted to require these platforms to comply with the accessibility requirements under the Communications Act and agency rules that govern interoperable video conferencing services.

Interoperable video conference service providers will have one year and 30 days from the publication in the Federal Register summary to comply with this guidance.

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