Introduction

Why should accessibility matter on social media platforms? As someone with total sight loss, this question holds personal significance for me. If you have sight loss and use Facebook, then you may have noticed several changes, some not for the better.

Facebook, once renowned for its commitment to inclusivity, has taken a disappointing turn with its automatic Alt Text AI system. This system, which previously provided detailed descriptions of photographs, played a crucial role in allowing individuals with visual impairments to fully engage with the content shared on the platform. However, recent changes – deliberate or otherwise - have resulted in shorter and less descriptive alt text, undermining the accessibility that was once celebrated.

In this blog post, I will share my personal perspective, provide real-life examples, discuss the comparisons between past and current descriptions and explore the possible reasons behind Facebook's decision to limit the descriptions. Although, the latter I have to confess, is purely speculative at this juncture until positive dialogue between Facebook and me is initiated.

Facebook's Introduction of Alt Text

As you may recall, Facebook introduced its Automated Alt Text (AAT) process in 2016, utilising machine learning to identify objects within posted images whenever manual alt-text descriptions were not provided. This ground-breaking feature expanded the number of concepts that AAT could reliably detect and identify, providing more detailed descriptions.

Facebook stated, "We've expanded the number of concepts that AAT can reliably detect and identify in a photo by more than 10x, which in turn means fewer photos without a description." This enhancement allowed for descriptions to include activities, landmarks, types of animals, and more - providing a richer understanding of the image.

Buried Customisation Feature

Another aspect that highlights the lack of accessibility on Facebook is the buried customisation feature for alt text. Despite Facebook including an option for their users to customise their own alt text descriptions, the implementation falls short in catering to individuals with total sight loss, including myself. The main issue lies in the fact that this feature is deeply hidden within various settings menus, making it incredibly challenging for those posting photos to discover and utilise it.

While Facebook may have intended for users to perceive inclusivity by providing the option to add their own alt text descriptions, the buried customisation feature contradicts the platform's objective. True accessibility requires that the customisation option is easily accessible to all users from the main menu, alongside other editing features. Placing it in an inconspicuous location within settings menus only undermines its usefulness for individuals with visual impairments, who rely on alt text to gain a comprehensive understanding of images shared on the platform.

By integrating it prominently into the main menu, Facebook would demonstrate a genuine commitment to accessibility and ensure that users can easily customise their own alt text descriptions. This approach would empower individuals with total sight loss to fully participate in sharing meaningful visual content on the platform and contribute to a more inclusive online community. By prioritising intuitive and easily accessible customisation options, Facebook can facilitate an inclusive social media experience for individuals with visual impairments and reinforce its commitment to accessibility and equal participation in the digital space.

Conclusion

Facebook's shift from providing spectacular descriptions to token gestures in its automatic Alt Text AI system is deeply disappointing. Individuals with visual impairments, like myself, are left feeling excluded and frustrated by the decline in descriptive alt text. The personal examples and comparisons highlight the loss of richness and nuance in the viewing experience. While possible reasons such as a desire for simplicity, emphasis on visual content, and technological limitations may explain Facebook's move, it is essential for the platform to prioritise accessibility and address the concerns of users with visual impairments. The lack of response from Facebook further underscores the need for accountability and transparency in ensuring an inclusive social media landscape for all users. By restoring comprehensive and detailed descriptions, actively engaging with users, and providing accessible customisation options, Facebook can demonstrate its commitment to inclusivity and reaffirm its position as a leader in digital accessibility.