What is the GARI project?

The title of this post is a question that I get asked quite often and so it seems fitting to answer it in our first post. In short, GARI stands for the Global Accessibility Reporting Initiative. It's a project designed to help consumers learn more about the various accessibility features of mobile (cell) phones and to help them identify phones with the features that may assist them with their particular needs. 


The project itself was developed in response to requests from consumer and advocacy groups for improved information regarding the accessibility of mobile phones. We continue to work with a number of groups in different countries to develop the project in line with the changing nature of the technology and to improve usability. We welcome the opportunity to work with other groups to gather feedback and to improve awareness of the site.


Since its initial launch the project has received widespread support from Governments and other stakeholders. Take for example the comments made in France when we launched the first version of our accessibility reports and then the joint comments by the Australian Minister for Communications and the Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities when we launched the online database in Australia in 2010.


We currently have information on over 90 features of phones - any of which can make life that little bit easier - and about 300 phone models. If you want to stay updated on the latest additions to the database, learn more about new features and how they can help address particular needs or just get updates on how the project is going, then subscribe to the blog or come back and visit often - you'll always be welcome.