Digital accessibility: What will change in Italy starting June 28, 2025?

Starting June 28, 2025, the Italian digital landscape will undergo a radical transformation thanks to the introduction of legislation that brings our country into line with the European standards set forth by the European Accessibility Act (EAA). This law not only requires technical adjustments to digital products and services, but also encourages companies to rethink their online presence with a focus on inclusivity and innovation.

In this in-depth analysis, we explore all the details of the regulations and offer practical insights on how to turn accessibility into a competitive advantage.

What Is the European Accessibility Act?

The EAA is a European directive created with an ambitious goal: to make digital technology accessible to everyone, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities. It is not just about improving the browsing experience for people with disabilities, but about ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate in social and economic life without barriers.

Why is this important?

According to European Union data, more than 15% of the population lives with some form of disability. Failing to include this group means excluding millions of people from essential services, which also has a direct impact on business opportunities.

An accessible website or app:

• The number of potential users is increasing.
• It reduces the user dropout rate.
• Improve your SEO ranking by adhering to technical guidelines such as WCAG.

An Increasingly Digital World

The need for legislation such as the EAA stems from an obvious fact: digital technology is now an integral part of our daily lives. From online shopping and banking to booking travel and services, most of our activities take place on digital platforms.

Yet not everyone has the same easy access to these tools. The lack of accessibility leads to exclusion, denying millions of people the opportunity to actively participate in economic and social life.

Ensuring universal access to digital services is not just a matter of social justice, but a necessary step toward building a more equitable and modern society. For businesses, it means embracing the future with tools that reflect the real needs of the population.

What does the new legislation entail?

1. Scope of Application

Starting in 2025, the regulation will apply to:

• Websites and mobile apps: All digital content must comply with WCAG 2.1 standards (and WCAG 2.2, where applicable).
• Hardware and self-service kiosks: Computers, smartphones, and ATMs must be designed to be accessible to everyone.
• Specific sectors: Banks, telecommunications companies, e-commerce firms, and transportation companies will need to adapt to ensure full accessibility to their services.

2. Exceptions and Transition

Micro-enterprises (with fewer than 10 employees and annual revenue of less than 2 million) are exempt but encouraged to comply. For others, a transition period is in place until 2030 for existing products.

Areas of Application and Sectors Involved

The regulations cover a wide range of products and services.

1. Websites and Mobile Apps

The WCAG 2.1 guidelines (updated to version 2.2) establish technical requirements that ensure content is readable and navigable by everyone. For example:

• High contrast between text and background.
• Features compatible with screen readers.
• Intuitive navigation for users who do not use a mouse.

2. Hardware and Self-Service Kiosks

Devices such as smartphones, tablets, ATMs, and vending machines must also be accessible to people with physical or visual disabilities.

3. Specific Sectors

Some sectors will face particular challenges:

• Banks: Online banking and bank branches must ensure full access to financial services.
• E-commerce: Online shopping platforms should be simple and accessible.
• Transportation: Apps for booking tickets and providing travel information must comply with the new standards.

Challenges and Opportunities for Businesses

The Challenges

• Technological upgrade: For many companies, updating websites and applications will require an investment of time and resources.
• Corporate culture: Making accessibility a priority means raising awareness among teams and stakeholders.

Opportunities

• Market expansion: An affordable product reaches more people, expanding the target audience.
• Innovation: Focusing on accessibility leads to more intuitive solutions that enhance the experience for all users.
• Brand reputation: Being perceived as an inclusive and responsible company builds customer trust.

How to Prepare

Companies can start working on accessibility right away by taking a strategic approach:

1. Assessment of the Current Situation

An accessibility analysis is the first step in identifying gaps and areas for improvement.

2. In-House Training

Raising awareness of these issues among the company’s team can accelerate the adoption of inclusive practices.

3. Technology Partners

Working with professionals who specialize in digital accessibility reduces the risk of errors and ensures compliant solutions.

Accessibility: A Requirement or a Strategic Choice?

Viewing digital accessibility merely as a regulatory requirement is an oversimplification. The reality is that the future of business depends on an inclusive approach. Adapting today means being prepared for tomorrow’s needs, in an increasingly competitive and user-experience-driven environment.

Don’t wait until the 2025 deadline: digital accessibility is a strategic choice that will bring long-term benefits to your business and to society.

To learn more, simply contact us by filling out one of the forms on this website—we’ll help you assess your situation and, if necessary, improve your online accessibility.