Accessibility determines whether people can read, navigate and shop on a website. accessiBe offers automated tools and an interface that lets visitors adjust parts of the experience. Here is what such a tool can contribute and why it needs to be supported by manual work.
What is accessiBe?
accessiBe provides web accessibility services, including accessWidget. The tool uses automation and lets visitors change certain settings. It can support accessibility work, but installing it does not automatically make an entire website accessible or compliant with WCAG or applicable law.
User experience and limitations
A clear settings panel can help some visitors. The store’s core functions still need to work without requiring a customer to find and activate a separate tool. Keyboard navigation, focus order, forms, error messages and screen-reader use need testing in the actual store.
Automated checks can detect some issues but cannot establish whether the whole purchase journey is understandable and usable. Combine them with manual review and testing involving people who use assistive technology.
Updates and ongoing work
Regular updates and user feedback matter for an accessibility tool. They do not replace the store’s responsibility to review new pages, apps, campaigns and theme changes. Verify that improvements still work after significant changes.
Compliance claims
In 2025, the US Federal Trade Commission reached a settlement with accessiBe over allegations of misleading claims that the product could make any website WCAG-compliant. See the FTC’s case documentation. Do not treat an installed tool or badge as proof that every requirement has been met.
Cost and choice of solution
Compare the provider’s current price and scope with your store’s needs. Check what is included in audits, manual remediation and support. A low subscription price says little about the total work needed to make a store accessible.
Our recommendation
Start by reviewing the main customer journeys: navigation, product selection, cart, checkout and contact. Prioritise barriers that prevent people from completing a task. Then choose tools that support the work and follow up with manual testing. Automation can be part of the solution, but accessibility needs to be built into the site’s content, design and functionality.
