Enhancing Accessibility through Typography in Thai Government Mobile Applications: Identifying Issues and Recommending Inclusive Guidelines for Typefaces, Type Sizes, and Color Contrast

Background Typography plays a critical role in enhancing the user experience in mobile application design, particularly for individuals with low visual acuity. However, inclusive typographic principles have yet to receive enough attention in Thai government standards. This study aims to identify and review issues with the use of Thai typefaces in government mobile applications and inspires future research to develop effective typographic design. Methods The study examined the typography used in five Thai government mobile applications for public services related to healthcare, taxes, and utilities. Two primary categories of Thai typefaces were identified, and 30 Thai volunteers with varying levels of near visual acuity were recruited to investigate the effects of age on near visual acuity. The participants underwent two tasks: one while wearing blur simulation goggles and one without. They read selected words and texts on mobile applications at viewing distances of 40 cm, 35 cm, 30 cm, and 25 cm. The results were recorded in the experimental log sheet, and the data were analyzed. Results Typeface, type size, and contrast ratio significantly impacted the legibility and readability of text, especially for individuals with low visual acuity (as demonstrated by low visual acuity simulation), while some applications had high contrast ratios and larger type sizes, longer texts in small typefaces, and low contrast ratios hindered legibility. The use of Roman-like Thai typefaces also had a negative impact on reading proficiency, particularly for longer texts. Conclusions Inclusive typography principles are crucial for enhancing the user experience in mobile application design and ensuring accessibility for all users, specifically individuals with low visual acuity. The study highlights the need for more detailed guidelines for Thai typography in government standards to address typographical concerns. By incorporating appropriate typefaces, ensuring uniformity in type sizes, and utilizing color contrast, designers can create products that are accessible to a broader range of users. The study provides valuable insights into the importance of incorporating inclusive typography principles in mobile application design and encourages further research to enhance the effective typographic design.