New Apple short film shows the everyday impact of accessible tech

Accessibility is a human right.
 By 
Chase DiBenedetto
 on 
A person in a power wheelchair poses in front of a grey photo backdrop. In front of them is a block of text reading, "Accessibility: The Greatest."

It's hard to describe the vital role of accessible technology in the everyday lives of its users, but Apple's newly released short film, The Greatest, has made quite the effort.

The video stars (and was created by) people with disabilities, individuals who use tech like smartphones, watches, and tablets daily to do much more than just make calls and surf the internet. Highlighting things like the iPhone's Assistive Touch and Door Detection, the Apple Watches' Sound Recognition notifications, and Speak Selection for iPad users, the two-minute video is also a great breakdown of the unlimited potential of accessible technologies — as well as Apple's commitment to making its in-house products usable for all.

Onscreen, viewers watch a day in the life of seven Apple users using this variety of Apple tech and accessible system settings to be "their greatest," while behind the scenes, a team of people with disabilities led the creative endeavor. This even includes the minds behind the film's scoring track, from producer Cola Boyy (spot him building the song at the 45-second mark) and pianist Matthew Whitaker (viewers can watch him go from dressing room to stage throughout the film).


You May Also Like

Apple also released an audio-described version of the film to bring awareness to the needs of blind and low-vision audiences.

All of this was done ahead of International Day of Persons with Disabilities, a United Nations–recognized holiday to promote disability inclusion and awareness, on Dec. 3.

Chase sits in front of a green framed window, wearing a cheetah print shirt and looking to her right. On the window's glass pane reads "Ricas's Tostadas" in red lettering.
Chase DiBenedetto
Social Good Reporter

Chase joined Mashable's Social Good team in 2020, covering online stories about digital activism, climate justice, accessibility, and media representation. Her work also captures how these conversations manifest in politics, popular culture, and fandom. Sometimes she's very funny.

Mashable Potato

Recommended For You
CES 2026: Switchbot claims to have the 'most accessible humanoid housebot'
a tall humanoid robot waving next to red text that says Onero H1

Walmart has the Ninja Foodi Everyday PossibleCooker for a total steal — get it for only $74
Ninja Foodi PossibleCooker on countertop with various foods

4 highlights from Google CEO Sundar Pichai's talk at the AI Impact Summit 2026 in India
Google CEO Sundar Pichai

The 41 best Apple TV shows, ranked
Five side-by-side images shows different characters from Apple TV shows.

I'm a tech editor, and I found 37 Big Spring Sale tech deals at Amazon I'd actually shop
collage of tech products on sale during amazon big spring sale

Trending on Mashable
NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 3, 2026
Connections game on a smartphone

NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 4, 2026
Connections game on a smartphone

Wordle today: Answer, hints for April 3, 2026
Wordle game on a smartphone

Wordle today: Answer, hints for April 4, 2026
Wordle game on a smartphone

Google launches Gemma 4, a new open-source model: How to try it
Google Gemma
The biggest stories of the day delivered to your inbox.
These newsletters may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. By clicking Subscribe, you confirm you are 16+ and agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Thanks for signing up. See you at your inbox!