Getting the most out of your devices

Here you'll find guidance on choosing accessible phones and devices that suit you, and getting the most out of the features on them.

Choosing the right device for your needs

The Global Accessibility Reporting Initiative (GARI) can help you find the right product with features that work for you. Learn about phones, tablets, apps, smart TVs and wearable technology, like watches.

Visit the GARI website

Not all the products listed on the GARI website are available on EE. To see the full range of devices we offer, visit the EE online shop.

Using the accessibility features on your phone, tablet or computer

AbilityNet’s free interactive tool My Computer My Way offers step-by-step guides to the accessibility features built into every desktop computer, laptop, tablet and smartphone.

Visit My Computer My Way

Need to know

AbilityNet also offer lots of factsheets with advice on how computers and other digital technologies can help people with a range of digital needs.

Smartphones and tablets

The latest mobile devices come with a range of features and settings designed to support different needs. However, these features vary by device. To find out what’s available on your phone or tablet, check the manufacturer’s website.

Manufacturer accessibility information

Alternatively, here’s an overview of the key accessibility features for mobiles and tablets which customers with impairments may find useful:

Hearing impairments

Features that may benefit deaf or hard of hearing customers include:

  • hearing aid compatibility - phone calls can be transmitted to a hearing aid via an induction loop
  • a vibrating alert or a flashing light on the screen - so you can feel or see when someone's calling you
  • haptic feedback - when you press any key, the phone vibrates, so you don't accidentally call someone
  • volume control - so the other person is loud enough for you to hear as well as possible
  • a variety of ringtones - so you can choose one that you can hear best
  • the Relay UK app - this allows you to call people with the help of a Relay Assistant
  • video calling - so you can see the caller as you chat
  • the InterpretersLive! app - this is a service that enables deaf people to make and receive calls via a British Sign Language interpreter

Vision impairments

Features that may benefit blind or partially sighted customers include:

  • voice commands – so you can control your phone by talking to it
  • text reader – so you can hear the text on the screen
  • haptic feedback – this means that when you press a key, the phone vibrates
  • audio feedback – so you can hear instructions
  • back-lit keypad – in case the light is poor
  • adjustable contrast – to help make text easier to read
  • adjustable font size – in case you want larger letters
  • large, clear, screen display and voice calling – to cut down on how much you have to read
  • audible battery indicator – so you can hear when you’re running low

Physical or motor impairments

Features that may benefit people with physical or motor impairments include:

  • larger buttons or a touchscreen - if you find it difficult to handle a phone or operate the keypad
  • a rubber case - this makes the phone easier to grip and provides extra protection if it's dropped
  • voice dialling - so you don't have to use your fingers to dial
  • voice-controlled personal assistants - access the Internet with your voice rather than using your fingers

Choosing the right plan

We can help you make sure you have the right plan for your needs. If you rely on video relay services, for example, you might consider a plan with a high data allowance.

Once you’ve told us about any additional needs you have, our team will be happy to discuss your options with you.

Was this article helpful?

Thank you for your feedback!
Sorry about that! Why didn’t this article help you?