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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, September 24, 2020 - Volume 774The Week's News in Access Technologyhttps://toptechtidbits.com/ A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology. This Week's Featured Advertisement: A Thank You To Our Sponsors and Supporters. Without You There Would Be No Tidbits.
It's been a little over 3 months now since Top Tech Tidbits transitioned into a not-for-profit publication and I wanted to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of the individuals and organizations that have made this transition possible. Without these people and these organizations there would no Tidbits, and the leading online resource for weekly adaptive technology news and trends would have ceased to exist. So if you have the time, please join me in thanking the following people for their support. Firstly I would like to thank the previous publisher of Tidbits, Mr. Larry Lewis, and his former company Flying Blind, LLC. Without their support of Tidbits prior to our arrival there would have been no torch to pass. Secondly, I would like to thank our Sponsors, starting with our Editor Mr. Dean Martineau. Your weekly news updates continue to engage and keep us informed. Thank you. To Miss Donna J. Jodhan of DonnaJodhan.com, who was the very first person to say yes to a sponsorship when I called to tell her that Mind Vault would be publishing Top Tech Tidbits going forward. Thank you. To Mr. John Panarese of MacForTheBlind.com, who came on board just as quickly as Donna called to ask him for his support. Thank you. To Mr. Jason Meddaugh of ATGuys.com, who emailed to offer their support and enthusiasm not shortly after that. Thank you. To Mr. Barry Scheur and Mrs. Kae Rausch of GuideLightsAndGadgets.us, for all of your support, and all of the advice that you have shared with me, as well as the very special friendship that we now share. Thank you. To the entire team of American Printing House at APH.org, we are beyond grateful for your support especially, and what it means to the future of the Top Tech Tidbits publication. To each of our Supporters, who donate purely out of the kindness in their hearts and receive only Tidbits in return. Mr. Gary Lee, Anonymous, Mr. Howard Goldstein, Mr. David Goldstein, Mr. Steven Wettlaufer and Mr. Shaun Everiss. And finally to everyone at Mind Vault who believed in this project enough to donate the ongoing time and resources necessary to complete its transition. Speaking of which, I am very happy to announce that Tidbits has received verbal agreements from its 7th and 8th sponsors, and now has only 4 sponsorship packages remaining before it reaches its goal. None of which would be possible without each and every one of you. Thank you. 🙏 - Aaron Di Blasi, PMP, Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Greetings,1) NVDA 2020.3 Beta 2 Available for TestingBeta 2 includes improved translations and better output with some synthesizers among other enhancements:https://www.nvaccess.org/post/nvda-2020-3beta2/ 2) JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion Public BetaBeta 2 is out for all of these programs as well which adds functionality and fixes bugs:https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/JAWS/JAWSPublicBeta 3) Blind Abilities on iOS 14Three panelists discuss what's new for the iPhone:https://blindabilities.com/?p=6242 4) Should You Build a PC in 2020?How-To Geek talks about the trends we should watch:https://www.howtogeek.com/690098/should-you-build-a-pc-in-2020/ 5) FSCast #189We hear demonstrations of the new features to come in JFW and Fusion 2021 and about David Kingsbury's new book about using multiple browsers:http://hwcdn.libsyn.com/p/f/8/6/f86d635322732ae3/FSCast189-September2020.mp3?c_id=84220295&cs_id=84220295&destination_id=699950&expiration=1600912386&hwt=60a8545095a9d2fd891badf642ffba89 6) September 2020 AccessWorldThis latest AccessWorld includes "Exciting Changes for the Hadley Institute's Second Century," "Victor Reader Stream, a Product Worth Considering (Or Reconsidering)," "A Review of ClaroPDF for iOS: An App that Makes PDFs More Accessible," "A Review of the QBraille XL from HIMS Inc., A Braille Display with Elements of a QWERTY Keyboard" and "Book Review: When One Web Browser Is Not Enough: A Guide for Windows Screen Reader Users, by David Kingsbury:"https://www.afb.org/aw/21/9 7) iOS14 Tutorials and More from The Tech JuggernautHere you'll find several audio tutorials on new iOS features as well as information on using Cisco Webex and Google Classroom for their classes and help sessions, which may be useful information to others for other sites:https://ttjtech.net/ 8) What's New and Noteworthy in iOS 14 and Watch OS 7 from Mystic AccessThis free event takes place on GMT Friday, 25 September at 00:30. Join here:https://mysticaccess.zoom.us/j/81089962506 9) Minimizing Accessibility Risk with User Flow MonitoringThis TPG webinar takes place on GMT Thursday, 30 September at 16:00. Register here:https://zoom.us/webinar/register/1615995964687/WN_8sp2h4z6R7qbQqot1tP14g 10) New UX Blog SeriesThis six-part series from TPG covers the foundation of accessible user experience:https://www.paciellogroup.com/ux-series-connecting-ux-with-digital-accessibility-strategy/ 11) Device Unboxing and First Twitter Stream Test from Anatad PodcastHere's episode #52 of this Android-centric podcast:https://www.pscp.tv/AnatadPodcast/1ynJOqRolmvKR 12) Mosen at Large Episode #66Among topics discussed here are reactions to the new iOS, reading and voting:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/25724bd9495f4ab2/your-thoughts-on-apple-s-new-os-releases-reading-blind-voting-blind-and-more 13) Blind Bargains Qast 214Lots of Apple news and links here:https://blindbargains.com/bargains.php?m=22007 14) 4 Questions About Transitioning to the Edge Chromium BrowserAs they often do, the Freedom Scientific Training Department follows up its recent presentation on the new Edge with a blog post on the topic:https://blog.freedomscientific.com/you-ask-we-answer-4-questions-about-transitioning-to-the-edge-chromium-browser/ 15) Amazon Seeks Screen Reader Users for Paid ResearchAmazon is currently seeking screen reader users, age 18 and older, to participate in paid research regarding image descriptions on product web pages. If you are an adult screen reader user you can fill out a brief qualification survey with 5 questions to see if you qualify for the study. If you qualify, they will send an email with instructions and a link to the full study. Those who complete the full study will receive a $100 Amazon gift card. The qualification survey is expected to take only a few minutes to complete, and will only be active until September 30, 2020:https://bvi1-qual.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4HFjROGxCWaII5f 16) Tidbits Opinion Poll ResultsLast week a reader asked, "What are some blind-accessible games that are really fun to play?" So far we've received only 1 answer. Audio Game Hub 2. Learn more at: http://www.audiogamehub.com/audio-game-hub-2-0/. Share your opinion with us on this, and future AT-related polls, on the Top Tech Tidbits website where you can weigh in and view results:https://poll.app.do/blind-accessible-games 17) Future Tidbits Opinion PollsDo you have an intriguing AT-related question that you'd like to see posed to the Tidbits community?Send your AT-related questions to: polls@toptechtidbits.com Answer past Poll questions you may have missed at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/polls.html Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:Sponsor: Donna JodhanAuthor, Donna Jodhan Publications➜ This Week's Classified Ad:This Week's Featured Home & Garden article from Donna's subscription library! Pressure Cookers Are Back And Safer Than ever! No more having to be afraid of your pressure cooker! See how easy it is! Donate to any one of my special causes and receive free unlimited access to all 3 of my subscription libraries! Visit https://donnajodhan.com/donate.html to learn more today! Your support makes the difference in keeping our children connected, healthy and part of our community!
President, Sterling Creations Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020 Website: https://donnajodhan.com/ 🌐 About: My name is Donna J. Jodhan and I have been blind all my life, but that has not prevented me from living independently as someone who takes care of my own home and garden, travels regularly for my job, and runs my own business. I am an entrepreneur, blogger, author, audio mystery writer, advocate, podcaster, and law student. I enjoy cooking, ice skating, playing chess, composing on my electronic keyboard, and communicating with nature. Sponsor: GuideLights and GadgetsDirector, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us➜ This Week's Classified Ad:GuideLights And Gadgets: Great Buys, Choices, Service! New: Spectacular Promotion: InsideOne Windows 10 Braille Computer with 32 Cell Display; $3,900 through December 31st with $500 upgrade to new model. Orbit Writer Bundle, $140; Our own leather case, neck pouch, and tutorial. Roomy leather "biker" chest pack with hands free phone holder for AIRA, etc. also fits 20 cell display, $55.00. Our own new Orbit Writer & Phone Leather Case: Tough enough for a biker, $20; 3 Multi-Pocket Leather Cross-Body Bags, $36 with free shipping! New Soundbox Stereo Model: Listen on the Go; No Wires; Great Sound; 4AA batteries, $50.00. Call Barry at (617) 969-7500 📱️ for full details.
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020 Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐 For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at: For All Things Dog Contact Kae at: About: Our Scope of Products: We specialize in 3 lines of products, all intended to assist in access to adaptive electronics, enhance experiences for guide dog teams, and offer practical solutions for organization and travel with a variety of leather bags, pouches, and backpacks. Then there are the random products that are included, just for fun! We enjoy working with our customers 1-on-1 to their money is well spent and not wasted on something they may not use. In thinking about our customers and whether we will carry a product our guiding motto is that it must be: practical, affordable, simple, tested, and accessible (the pasta principle) and it seems to work very well. What We Do: We bring our business either via zoom, phone, or to your conference or convention, to give each customer a chance for questions and where possible, "hands on" evaluation of the merchandise. Kae and I test and use each product as blind users before we put it in our catalog. In the case of products for guide and service dogs, our own three guides, Thor, Debra and Melody, are engaged in the process of evaluating the usefulness, durability, and/or fun of the product. We want each of our products to be useful, accessible, afforable, and, whenever possible, fun! Our inventory is constantly changing, so a visit to us is never the same experience twice! Sponsor: John PanareseDirector, https://www.MacForTheBlind.com➜ This Week's Classified Ad:Searching for accessible tutorials and courses for the Mac and iOS? Then you should contact John Panarese, world-renowned Apple Trainer and Consultant! Visit https://macfortheblind.com/ or email john@macfortheblind.com to learn more today!
Authorized Apple Business Affiliate Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020 Website: https://www.macfortheblind.com/ 🌐 About: Macfortheblind.com is a place specifically for blind people who are either users or potential users of Macintosh computers or iOS devices, such as the iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, iPod Nano, Apple Watch and Apple TV. I am a blind individual who has used the Mac ever since VoiceOver became available in OS 10.4 Tiger, and I own an iMac, Mac Mini, Mac Book Pro laptop computer, an iPhone 6S, an iPad Air, an Apple Watch and an Apple TV 4th Generation. In addition, I am an Authorized Apple Business Affiliate, and as an Apple Certified Support Professional and an Apple Certified Trainer, I offer training and technical support for individuals, agencies and organizations on the mac and all iDevices, as well as offering assistive technology consulting. Sponsor: A. T. Guys➜ This Week's Classified Ad:Introducing a new and compact charger for your desk or travel bag. This charger includes 3 high-speed USB charging ports plus two AC outlets. The outlets are spaced far apart so your larger power bricks won't cover up both plugs. Plus, this thing is tiny, built tough, and easy to carry around. A high-quality product from Plugable and A. T. Guys. The Plugable 2-Outlet Travel Charger for $29.95: https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=46&products_id=330
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020 Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐 About: ATGuys.com. Your access technology experts, home for cool gadgets, accessories, and more. Our products are all tested to work great for blind and visually impaired users but also work just as well for anyone. If there's an item you're looking for, or if you have a question, please don't hesitate to send us a message or call (269) 216-4798 📱️. Sponsor: Dean MartineauEditor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter➜ This Week's Classified Ad:Would you like to learn to control your computer with your voice, or to create documents using your voice rather than the keyboard? There are several tools to accomplish these objectives. I can provide training in their use. Write to me at topdot@gmail.com if interested.
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020 Website: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/ 🌐 About: Dean Martineau is the Founder and a Contributing Editor to the Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter. Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)➜ This Week's Classified Ad:Magnify the world around you with APH's selection of desktop, portable magnifiers. From simple, user-friendly features, to high-tech and tablet-based functionality, Jupiter and MATT Connect magnifiers will help you see the world in high definition! Whether in the classroom, workplace, or home; Jupiter and Matt Connect are designed for users of all ages to continue the activities that bring joy to everyday life, while also exploring opportunities for lifelong education. Visit https://www.aph.org/ to learn more.
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020 Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐 Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️ About: Since 1858, the American Printing House for the Blind has operated in Louisville, Kentucky as the world's largest nonprofit organization, creating accessible learning experiences through educational, workplace, and independent living products and services for people who are blind and visually impaired. APH believes that the future belongs to everyone. By offering innovative products and services, APH opens up a door of opportunities for lifelong independence and success. Sponsor: Your Name Here: 6 of 12 Sponsorship Packages still available.
Top Tech Tidbits is the world's leading not-for-profit Access Technology publication that reaches over 15,000 Access Technology professionals, educators and enthusiasts each week. Over the last 12 months our 100% legally-compliant opt-in subscriber list has had an Average Open Rate of 37%, an Average Click-Through Rate of 42% and an Average Bounce Rate of 2.8%. We now offer 12 Annual Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication. There are currently 6 of these 12 packages still available. Secure one of these remaining packages today for only $325.00 USD for the next 3 months, or save $100.00 USD and join us for the year. All Sponsorship Packages are offered on a first-come, first serve basis. Please help us to support the ongoing distribution of this publication. Consider showing your support for Access Technology over the next 3-12 months while enjoying these incredible benefits: Sponsorship Package Benefits: ➜ 1.) 4 "This Week's Featured Advertisement" Spots Over The Next 12 Months: Each Annual Sponsor may choose (from those dates still available within the Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Calendar) up to FOUR (4) "This Week's Featured Advertisement" dates within the calendar year of their sponsorship. That's 4 Issue dates reaching 15,000+ Access Technology subscribers each. ➜ 2.) 48 Classified Ad Spots Over The Next 12 Months: Each Sponsor is also allocated ONE (1) Sponsor Classified Advertisement in every issue of Tidbits (each week) for the full year of their sponsorship. That's 48 Issues reaching 15,000+ Access Technology subscribers each. And that's not all. If you'd like to learn more, please head on over to the Sponsorship Information section of the Top Tech Tidbits website at https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html. If you're ready to secure your Sponsorship today please contact Aaron Di Blasi of Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. at: sponsorships@toptechtidbits.com.Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!Tidbits Supporters (https://www.toptechtidbits.com/supporter-information.html) donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication. If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/donate.html. In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible: Platinum Supporters:1.) Gary Lee, Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020. 2.) Anonymous Donation, Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020. Gold Supporters:1.) Howard Goldstein, Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020. 2.) David Goldstein, Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020. Silver Supporters:1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today at: Bronze Supporters:1.) Steven Wettlaufer, Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020. 2.) Shaun Everiss, Bronze Supporter since September 10, 2020. Top Tech Tidbits Subscription Information:RELEASE SCHEDULE:Top Tech Tidbits is released every Thursday morning at 6:00 AM ET.SUBSCRIBE:Do you, a friend, or colleague wish to receive the Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter? If so, please use or pass along our CAPTCHA-free sign-up link, which is: https://toptechtidbits.com/subscribe. You can also subscribe to receive the Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter on the Top Tech Tidbits Website at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com. Either of these methods will provide you with an accessibly friendly and secure medium through which you can subscribe to our mailing list. Just enter your email address, click send, and begin receiving the Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter. It's that easy.DONATE:If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options, with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support: https://toptechtidbits.com/donate.WEBSITE:Visit the Top Tech Tidbits website online at https://www.toptechtidbits.com.POLLS:Answering Questions: Are you an experienced or proficient user of AT (Assistive Technology)? Do you represent a company or organization that serves and / or operates within the AT (Assistive Technology) space? If you are, or if you do, we would love to hear your opinions on any of our many AT-related Polls. Weigh in and view the results for any Top Tech Tidbits Poll on the Top Tech Tidbits website at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/polls.html.Asking Questions: Do you have an intriguing AT-related question that you'd like to see posed to the Tidbits community? While we cannot guarantee that all submissions will be utilized, we promise to choose the very best of them to be included in future issues. Available Poll Types are: Multiple Choice, Checkboxes, Drop-Down List, Scale of 1 to 5, and Ranking in Order of Preference. You may send your AT-related questions to: polls@toptechtidbits.com. FACEBOOK:Are you on Facebook? Stop by and "Like" Top Tech Tidbits to begin receiving current news and trends in Access Technology as part of your Facebook News Feed: https://toptechtidbits.com/facebook.X (FORMERLY TWITTER):Are you on X? 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If a particular Tidbit brings up a question in your mind, feel free to ask, and we will try to answer as time and knowledge permit.ARCHIVEVisit the Top Tech Tidbits Archive at: https://toptechtidbits.com/archive where you can grab back issues.CONTENT CONTRIBUTORS:Any information for future issues of Top Tech Tidbits may be submitted online via our Top Tech Tidbit Submission Form at: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or directed to our Editors at: editors@toptechtidbits.com. |
