TikTok rolls out new accessibility tools, including AI-generated ALT text

TikTok has announced a major update to its accessibility toolkit, introducing new features aimed at improving the user experience for individuals with visual impairments and other accessibility needs. The platform is rolling out AI-generated ALT text for photos, a high-contrast display mode, and support for device-level bold text settings.

Earlier this year, TikTok added manual ALT text support for photo uploads, allowing creators to describe images for screen reader users. Now, TikTok is testing an AI-powered version that will automatically generate descriptions when no manual text is provided. This new feature is designed to make visual content more accessible to blind and low-vision users, helping them engage more fully with content on the platform.

This move aligns TikTok with similar initiatives from competitors—Instagram, for instance, has been leveraging AI to generate ALT text since 2018.

Another key update is the launch of a high-contrast mode, now available in the app’s accessibility settings under “color contrast.” Enabling this feature enhances the visibility of text, icons, and interface elements by boosting foreground color contrast—an important improvement for users with low vision or contrast sensitivity.

Additionally, TikTok now respects system-wide bold text settings. When this setting is enabled on a user’s device, all text in the TikTok app will automatically appear in bold, offering improved readability for users who prefer or rely on bolder fonts.

In a statement, TikTok emphasized its ongoing commitment to inclusivity:

“We believe that accessibility is not only a responsibility but a chance to innovate. By ensuring everyone can share their voice, we’re fostering a platform that’s more welcoming, inclusive, and empowering.”

These updates build on TikTok’s growing lineup of accessibility features, which already includes auto-captions for videos, dark mode, text-to-speech, and customizable in-app text sizes.