Regulations on the Universal Design of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Solutions

The regulations establish technical requirements for the universal design of ICT solutions covered by the regulatory framework. It is particularly relevant for websites, mobile applications, self-service solutions, and digital content that must be usable by individuals with varying functional abilities.

When AI, machine translation, chatbots, or other language support is included in a covered solution, the interface, content, and functionality must be assessed against the same accessibility requirements. The fact that a solution uses AI does not in itself trigger the regulations.

The regulation specifies the requirements for the universal design of ICT solutions. It sets out technical standards and success criteria for, among other things, websites, mobile applications, and self-service solutions that fall within the scope of the regulation.

The requirements include structure, navigation, keyboard operation, contrast, text alternatives, forms, error messages, and accessibility across different screen sizes and with assistive technologies.

The public sector is subject to expanded requirements through the implementation of the EU Web Accessibility Directive, WAD. Under current rules, the public sector must follow 48 success criteria in WCAG 2.1, while the private sector follows 35 minimum requirements. The public sector also has a requirement for an accessibility statement for covered websites and mobile applications.

AI-based chatbots, language assistants, translation features, and generative interfaces can become part of a business website or app. In that case, the user interface and functionality must be evaluated against accessibility requirements in the same way as other parts of the solution.

The regulations do not entail a general obligation to translate content. However, when translated or AI-generated content is published in a covered solution, the content and presentation must still meet relevant accessibility requirements.

Lack of keyboard support, insufficient contrast, unclear labels, inaccessible documents, or a chatbot that does not work with assistive technologies can prevent users from accessing information and services.