App development is a complex and expensive process. For this reason, the Equal Rights Commission for People with Disabilities has granted an exemption in the following case: if the app offers exactly the same services available on an accessible website, organizations may explore applying for an exemption from making the app accessible.
The exemption is granted under the following conditions:
- The website itself must be accessible in accordance with the Israeli standard IS 5568, Level AA
- The service on the website must be completely identical to the service on the app – including all functions, forms, payments, information, and behavior.
- The website must be responsive, meaning it is mobile-friendly.
- An accessibility statement must be published within the app, indicating that an equivalent accessible service is available on the website.
Key points to keep in mind:
- If the app contains unique functionality that does not exist on the website – the exemption does not apply.
- If the website does not meet accessibility standards – this also invalidates the possibility of an exemption.
- There is still an obligation to inform users of the option to use the accessible website.