Workshop 2026

Inclusive Intelligence

Neural Architectures and Generative Models for Next-Generation Accessible and Assistive Technologies

Workshop of the 35th International Conference on Artificial Neural Networks (ICANN 2026)

Conference Dates: September 14-17, 2026
Conference Venue: Conference center of the School of Psychology, University of Padua, Italy

Explore the Workshop View Program

Abstract

The intersection of Artificial Intelligence and Assistive Technology (AT) is undergoing a transformative shift, driven by the emergence of Multimodal Large Language Models (MLLMs), generative AI, and cyber-physical systems. These technologies promise unprecedented autonomy for individuals with sensory, motor, and cognitive impairments, as well as other marginalized populations.

In parallel, the evolution of AI opens new opportunities in digital health, enabling personalized care, remote monitoring, and adaptive clinical support, ranging from real-time visual description for blind or visually impaired (BVI) users to adaptive extended reality (XR) environments for learners with different needs.

However, these technologies also pose significant challenges regarding reliability, latency, and intersectional bias. This workshop, Inclusive Intelligence, aims to bridge the gap between state-of-the-art neural network research and practical accessibility applications.

We invite researchers to discuss cutting-edge developments in artificial intelligence applied to accessibility, digital health, haptic rendering, and the ethical design of inclusive AI.

Topics of Interest

We invite submissions on a wide range of topics at the intersection of AI and accessibility, including but not limited to:

  • Multimodal Large Language Models (MLLMs) for Assistive Technology
  • Generative AI applications for accessibility and inclusion
  • Cyber-physical systems enabling autonomy for marginalized populations
  • Remote monitoring, adaptive clinical support, and digital health
  • Real-time visual description systems for BVI users
  • Adaptive extended reality (XR) for inclusive learning
  • Haptic rendering and multimodal feedback
  • Ethical design, intersectional bias, and fairness in inclusive AI

Important Dates

  • Workshop paper submission deadline: June 6, 2026
  • Notification of acceptance: July 10, 2026
  • Camera-ready submission deadline: July 18, 2026

Preliminary Program (Planned)

09:00 - 09:15

"The State of AI Accessibility in 2026"

Organizers: Camilla Poggianti & Marco Cardia

09:15 - 10:00

Keynote Speech

To be announced

10:00 - 10:30

Coffee Break

10:30 - 12:00

First Session

12:00 - 13:30

Lunch Break

Networking and socializing

13:30 - 15:00

Second Session

Submission Guidelines

The ICANN 2026 proceedings will be published in the Springer Lecture Notes in Computer Science (LNCS) series, indexed as peer-reviewed publication in the Web of Science.

Note: The exact link to the CMT submission page will be announced later. Please check back for updates.

Platforms & Formatting

  • Submissions managed via Microsoft CMT.
  • Full papers can be up to 12 pages in length.
  • All papers undergo rigorous peer review.
  • Springer encourages authors to include ORCIDs.

Preparing your Paper

Author information and guidelines are on the Springer LNCS page.

Anonymization Rules

ICANN 2026 is double-blind. Proper anonymization is required:

  • Replace authors and affiliations with "Anonymous".
  • Avoid first-person references to your own work.
  • Cite your own relevant work normally in references.
  • Remove acknowledgments for submission.

In-Person Requirement

Important notice: ICANN 2026 is an in-person conference. We expect that at least one co-author of each accepted paper will be physically present in Padua to give the presentation. A no-show rule will be enforced.

Organizers