Advancing AAC Through Artificial Intelligence: Developing Context-Aware Communication Tools for Neurodivergent Individuals

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects over 62 million people globally, and is a condition related to brain development involving persistent challenges in the way people interact (Santomauro et al. 2021). Around 25-30% of individuals with ASD are nonverbal or semiverbal (Mayo Clinic 2022). Existing communication tools for these individuals, such as Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) technology, remain constrained by their lack of personalization, limited adaptive intelligence, and absence of context-aware phrase prediction. Moreover, their slow speed and inefficiency often create feelings of frustration, discouraging individuals from using or purchasing them, especially given their high cost and limited adaptability. To address these challenges, ConnectAAC, an AI-powered AAC application, was developed to provide a personalized, context-aware, and efficient communication experience for nonverbal and semiverbal neurodivergent individuals. The app employs machine learning–based phrase prediction, context tagging, and adaptive flashcard responses to generate relevant suggestions tailored to each user’s communication patterns. Therefore, millions of nonverbal and semiverbal neurodivergent people will be able to communicate effectively and increasingly efficiently with ConnectAAC.