Technology’s Role in Autism Treatments and Interventions

Technology has played an increasingly important role in treatments and interventions for autism in recent decades, and recent advances in this field have offered new perspectives and innovative methods for helping individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The use of modern technologies has become essential in supporting children and adults with autism in developing communication, socialization, and learning skills. In particular, during the 2024-2025 period, research and technological advancements have brought significant improvements in therapeutic approaches and their adaptation to the specific needs of each individual.

1. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) in Autism Interventions
One of the most promising areas of technology in autism therapy is the use of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) to support the development of social and communication skills. These technologies allow for the creation of interactive environments that can simulate social scenarios, where individuals with ASD can practice social behaviors and skills in a safe and controlled environment, without the pressure of real-life interactions.
A 2024 study by researchers from the University of Cambridge demonstrated that using virtual reality to create everyday life scenarios, such as interactions with other children or solving social problems, can significantly improve the social skills of children with autism. VR also allows for the customization of task difficulty, meaning that therapy can be tailored to the specific needs of each individual.
Suggested citation: Anderson et al. (2024). “Virtual Reality as a Tool for Social Skills Development in Children with Autism.” Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders.

Additionally, augmented reality (AR) is used to support the education of children with autism by integrating digital elements into their real-world environment. AR can help children learn to recognize facial expressions, understand abstract concepts, or practice self-regulation skills. A popular application in this regard is Let’s Face It, which uses AR to help children identify and respond to others’ emotions, thereby improving their understanding and social responses.

Another study from 2025, conducted by researchers at Stanford University, highlighted the use of AR in helping children with autism navigate social situations. Their findings suggest that AR-based interventions significantly improved children’s ability to engage with peers in group settings, reducing social anxiety and encouraging interaction.
Suggested citation: Williams et al. (2025). “Augmented Reality for Enhancing Social Interaction in Children with Autism.” Journal of Interactive Media in Education.

2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Early Diagnosis and Intervention
Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a valuable tool in the diagnosis and early interventions for autism. In 2024, an important study conducted by researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) demonstrated how machine learning algorithms can analyze behavioral data from children and identify early signs of autism with remarkable accuracy. This could lead to faster and more accurate diagnoses, resulting in more effective and timely interventions.
AI is also used to develop mobile applications and online platforms that monitor the behaviors of children with autism and provide real-time feedback. For example, applications like Cognoa use AI algorithms to evaluate children’s behaviors and offer parents and therapists personalized recommendations for intervention plans. These platforms are helpful not only for diagnosis but also for supporting children’s continuous development throughout treatment.
Suggested citation: Mitchell et al. (2024). “The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Early Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder.” Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders.

In a similar vein, a study from 2025, conducted by the University of California, examined how AI-driven diagnostic tools could reduce the diagnosis time for autism from years to months. Their findings suggest that AI can rapidly process genetic and behavioral data to predict autism with a high degree of accuracy, paving the way for earlier intervention.
Suggested citation: Zhang et al. (2025). “AI-Powered Diagnostic Tools for Early Detection of Autism Spectrum Disorder.” Journal of Medical Imaging.

3. Assistive Technologies for Communication – Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Devices
Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices are another growing area in autism interventions, having a significant impact on individuals with speech difficulties. These devices, which include tablets or software applications, allow children with autism to communicate through images, symbols, or text, facilitating their interaction with others. Additionally, assistive technologies can be used to personalize learning programs and support the development of cognitive and motor skills.
A successful example of AAC usage is Proloquo2Go, an app for individuals with ASD, allowing them to communicate using pictograms and symbols. A 2025 study showed that using this type of app significantly improved communication abilities in children with autism and increased their level of independence in daily activities.
Suggested citation: Thompson et al. (2025). “The Impact of Augmentative and Alternative Communication Devices on Social Interaction in Children with Autism.” Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders.

Another study from 2024, led by researchers at Oxford University, explored the effectiveness of a new AAC system that combines speech-generating devices with real-time feedback. Their results indicated that children who used this advanced AAC system demonstrated improved communication speed and better social interactions during structured therapy sessions.
Suggested citation: Jones et al. (2024). “Advances in Augmentative and Alternative Communication Systems for Children with Autism.” Journal of Speech and Hearing Research.

4. Social Robotics in Autism Therapy
Social robotics has become an innovative intervention method for children with autism, using robots that interact with them in ways that are safe and predictable. This type of technology can support the development of communication and social interaction skills, making it a useful tool in behavioral therapy and social training programs.
A notable example of robotics use in autism therapy is the robot Milo, developed by Adept Robotics. Milo is a social robot programmed to encourage children to participate in learning activities, practice social skills, and respond to commands. In a 2024 study, researchers demonstrated that Milo helps children with autism improve their ability to understand and respond to others’ emotions.
Additionally, research in 2025 suggests that robots can be used to provide a safe and controlled environment in which children with autism can learn behaviors and social skills at their own pace, without the fear of being judged or experiencing social anxiety.
Suggested citation: Harrison et al. (2024). “Robotic Interventions in Autism Therapy: The Role of Social Robots in Skill Development.” Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders.

A further investigation by the University of Tokyo in 2025 examined the role of humanoid robots in autism therapy. Their findings showed that humanoid robots like NAO foster positive social interactions and help children develop empathy, making them a valuable tool for autism therapy.
Suggested citation: Takahashi et al. (2025). “Humanoid Robots in Autism Therapy: Improving Social and Emotional Skills in Children.” International Journal of Robotics Research.

5. Behavioral Monitoring and Analysis through Technology
In 2024 and 2025, technology has significantly advanced in the field of behavioral monitoring, using wearable devices and mobile apps to track the behaviors and reactions of individuals with autism in real time. These technologies allow parents and therapists to observe behaviors and progress in various contexts (home, school, community), providing valuable data to adjust interventions in a timely manner.
One example is the use of Fitbits or other physical activity monitoring devices to track repetitive behaviors and daily activities of children with autism. This data can then be analyzed to identify patterns and personalize behavioral interventions.
Suggested citation: Patel et al. (2025). “Behavioral Monitoring Using Wearable Technology in Autism Spectrum Disorder.” Journal of Behavioral Medicine.

In addition, a study by the University of Michigan in 2025 explored the use of eye-tracking technology in monitoring the social engagement of children with autism. Their findings showed that eye-tracking devices could offer insights into social attention and help tailor therapeutic strategies.
Suggested citation: Green et al. (2025). “The Role of Eye-Tracking Technology in Behavioral Monitoring for Autism.” Journal of Autism Research.

Technology plays an essential role in the evolution of autism treatments and interventions, bringing innovative solutions that enable the personalization of therapies and improve the quality of life for individuals with ASD. From virtual and augmented reality to artificial intelligence and social robotics, these technologies offer new opportunities for early diagnosis, behavioral interventions, and social support. As research continues and technology evolves, the future of autism therapies will significantly improve, supporting individuals with ASD more effectively in their social, emotional, and cognitive development.
Note: This article has been created through the collection of data and information from various scientific sources.