As an Apple fan and Mac user I find myself sometimes torn between appreciation for the steps that the company has taken to move accessibility forward by including several products including a screen reader and magnification program with their OS. And yet, I continue to be upset with Apple for the inaccessibility of the iPhone and iPod line of products.

I don’t often post technology news but thought that DN readers might be interested in this information as AT&T has taken steps to increase access to the iPhone for customers with certain disabilities.

AT&T has announced its new Text Accessibility Plan (TAP) for iPhone, designed to give customers with disabilities access to all the iPhone’s non-voice communication abilities without having to pay for voice service. The plan will include unlimited text messaging, web browsing and e-mail for $40 a month, and is available to new and current iPhone users with qualifying disabilities through AT&T’s National Center for Customers with Disabilities.

“Our Text Accessibility Plan allows customers who are deaf or have hearing or speech disabilities to literally tap out their communications on the go,” said Carlton Hill, vice president of Product Management, Voice Products and Affiliate Marketing for AT&T’s wireless unit. “Now with TAP for iPhone, users can tap, flick and pinch the innovative Multi-Touch touch screen for a completely new world of functionality.” For more information about AT&T’s NCCD or other offerings for customers with disabilities, visit the company’s disability resources web page. For additional information about accessibility features that are currently part of the iPhone experience, Visit the Apple iPhone Accessibility site. Unfortunately people with visual disabilities continue to be denied access to the iPhone and the many services available to users of the product.