In June 2024, at an insightful discussion hosted by the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), the vital intersection of disability rights and technology rights was examined. This dialogue highlighted the fundamental necessity of technological self-determination, emphasizing its critical role for individuals with disabilities. The EFF posits that the ability to choose and tailor technology is a universal right that holds even more significance for disabled users, who often require customized assistive tools for a full and engaged life.

The Call for Technological Self-determination Efforts to design assistive technologies have increasingly involved disabled technologists and users, aligning with the ethos of 'Nothing about us without us'. Originating in the democratic movements of 16th-century Europe, this phrase underpins the notion that comprehending individual needs is paramount for effective design. Yet, the journey toward technological self-determination should extend beyond initial involvement, advocating for the right of every person, especially those with disabilities, to modify and enhance their assistive devices.

Challenges Posed by DRM and Proprietary Restrictions The landscape, however, is tainted by corporations imposing restrictive digital rights management (DRM) protocols. Notable among these is the Encrypted Media Extensions (EME), finalized by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) in 2017. Although EME integrates accessibility features like closed captioning, it is structured in a way that penalizes those who attempt to innovate beyond its set boundaries, facilitated by Section 1201 of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA).

The ramifications of such confinements are extensive. Users cannot legally alter EME-protected streams to accommodate individual preferences, such as color adjustments for color-blindness or mitigating seizure-inducing effects through code enhancements. This monopolization extends to hardware as well, as seen in the powered wheelchair sector. Dominated by corporate behemoths protecting their markets with DRM, users face significant barriers to essential repairs and modifications.

Legislative Efforts and the Continued Struggle Legislative measures like Colorado's Right to Repair law enacted in 2022, and potential bills in California bring hope, aiming to dismantle the grip of DRM on assistive tech repairs. However, progress is slow, and urgent need remains for allowing users autonomy over the devices they rely on.

Moreover, DRM impacts medical implants, such as insulin pumps and neural implants. Vendors exploit these technologies, restricting user access to necessary updates and alternatives, further entrenching users into singular supply chains, with severe implications if a manufacturer ceases operation.

The Broader Implications of Assistive Adaptation Ultimately, the battle isn't exclusive to those with disabilities. Accessibility features often extend their benefits universally – curb cuts aid not only wheelchair users but also parents with strollers and travelers with luggage. Captioning supports both the Deaf community and those unable to hear dialogue. Hence, advocating for the adjustment rights in assistive technology is a universal fight for technological freedom and resilience.

Engaging in this advocacy today promises a more inclusive tomorrow for everyone.

This discussion was originally reported by EFF.