BFSG Forces Online Shops to Use Alt Texts

A Berlin-based health startup faces the challenge of equipping 1,400 product images with alt texts to comply with the Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG). The legal regulation mandates online shops to make their content accessible, which is particularly important for individuals with visual impairments. The startup had to decide whether to create the alt texts manually or to utilize an AI-driven workflow. Manually creating the alt texts was estimated to take two months, which would not only tie up significant personnel resources but also delay the market launch of new products.

In contrast, automation through AI promised a significant time savings, reducing the process to five days. To implement the AI solution, the startup employed a combination of machine learning and image analysis. These technologies enable the extraction of relevant information from product images and conversion into comprehensible alt texts. The decision to pursue this approach was made not only due to the time savings but also because of the high quality of the generated texts. The BFSG requirement has been in effect since January 1, 2026, and applies to all online providers offering products or services. The regulation aims to improve digital participation for individuals with disabilities. Companies that fail to comply risk legal consequences and potential fines. The Berlin startup is not the only company facing these new requirements; many online shops are confronted with similar decisions and are seeking efficient solutions to meet the legal mandates.

The demand for AI-supported tools for creating alt texts has surged in recent months. Another aspect of the BFSG requirement is the necessity to meet other accessibility criteria, including the adaptation of website layouts and the provision of accessible payment methods. These comprehensive requirements pose an additional challenge for many companies. The implementation of AI-driven solutions for generating alt texts could also be significant for other industries in the long run.

Experts see potential in applying such technologies to enhance accessibility across various digital domains. This development could lead companies to invest more in AI to meet legal requirements. The Berlin health startup plans to utilize the AI solution for future products as well. The automation is intended not only to facilitate the creation of alt texts but also to enhance efficiency in other areas of the company. The implementation of AI technology could thus serve as a model for other companies facing similar challenges. The first results of the AI-supported alt text generation are expected to be available by June 2026. The startup anticipates that the quality of the generated texts will meet the BFSG requirements and improve the user experience for all customers.