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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, December 30, 2021 - Volume 839 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, December 30, 2021 - Volume 839
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: No Sponsorship Packages Currently Available. Please Consider Joining Our Waiting List Today. This Issue Made Possible By Sponsorship Support From The Following Sponsors:
This issue made possible by sponsorship support from: A. T. Guys, GuideLights And Gadgets, American Printing House, LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store, HumanWare, APH ConnectCenter, Freedom Scientific, Pneuma Solutions, Carroll Center for the Blind, Blind Mice Mega Mall, HIMS, Inc. and Double Tap TV.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) 10 Amazing Apple iPhone Accessibility Tips You Might Not Be Aware Of: (13.6% of all clicks.)https://www.hellomagazine.com/news/20211217129234/apple-iphone-accessibility-tips/
B.) With iOS 15.2 Siri Is Back As Always: Voice Commands For The Visually Impaired Have Been Reinstated: (11.9% of all clicks.)
https://voonze.com/with-ios-15-2-siri-is-back-as-always-voice-commands-for-the-visually-impaired-have-been-reinstated/
C.) 4 Common Ways Companies Alienate People with Disabilities: (4.6% of all clicks.)
https://hbr.org/2021/11/4-common-ways-companies-alienate-people-with-disabilities
D.) The 7 Best Text-to-Speech Chrome Extensions: (3.8% of all clicks.)
https://www.makeuseof.com/best-chrome-text-to-speech-extensions/
E.) The Next Wave of Log4J Attacks Will Be Brutal | Wired: (3.6% of all clicks.)
https://www.wired.com/story/log4j-log4shell-vulnerability-ransomware-second-wave/
2) Hey Alexa
A) Guess the prices of every day (or not quite every day) items from Amazon.com. Earn extra points by playing classic mini games like Plinko, Showcase Showdown, and more. Just say, "Alexa, open the Price is Right."B) From sleep timers and alarms, to reminders, and calendar management, Alexa can take care of the details so you can focus on the holidays. Just say, "Alexa, remind me to take the dog out before bed."
C) To keep you organized and your dishes ready on time, Alexa can help you with multiple cooking timers at once. Just say, "Alexa, set a rib roast timer for 20 minutes."
D) Link your phone and ask Alexa to call it when it's misplaced. Just say, "Alexa, find my phone."
3) JAWS Power Tip: Setting a PlaceMarker on a Webpage
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/47.html
4) Positive Experiences Using The AIRA App by David Goldfield
David Goldfield outlines his recent experience using AIRA to fill out information for his COVID-19 Booster Shot on the Rite Aid website:https://davidgoldfield.wordpress.com/2021/12/27/positive-experiences-using-the-aira-app/
5) AccessiBe Breaks Accessibility of The Focus on The Family Online Shop by David Goldfield
David Goldfield outlines his recent experience with AccessiBe and The Focus on The Family Online Shop. His email to them, and their response:https://davidgoldfield.wordpress.com/2021/12/28/accessibe-breaks-accessibility-of-the-focus-on-the-family-online-shop/
6) Announcing Accessibility Enhancements In The Libby App
Better screen reader support on mobile and variable audio book narration speed are among some of the improvements. This will make accessing public library content more accessible:https://company.overdrive.com/2021/12/16/announcing-accessibility-enhancements-in-the-libby-app/
7) Enhancements in JAWS 2022.2112.24 (December 2021)
Jaws gets a clock on braille displays and a notification about sound splitting in Zoom and Teams and some other enhancements in the latest update. Read about it and download the update at:https://support.freedomscientific.com/downloads/jaws/JAWSWhatsNew
8) Microsoft UK Accessibility Champions
Here is a collection of videos from Microsoft with a focus on making Teams meetings more accessible:https://www.microsoft.com/en-gb/business/accessibility/tips-tricks/
9) How to Use Your Smart Speakers as a Home Theater Sound System
And if you are not talking to your speakers anymore, here is how you can set them up as a home theater for your television:https://gizmodo.com/how-to-use-your-smart-speakers-as-a-home-theater-sound-1848271953
10) 15 Best Apps Released In 2021 To Download On Your New Android Phone
Android Police recommend their top 15 Apps of 2021 for your Shiny new Android phone:https://www.androidpolice.com/best-apps-download-on-your-new-android-phone/
11) Accurate Mac Speech Recognition Is All About The Mic
Accurate speech recognition is all about a quality mic. Colin Hughes, an ex-BBC producer who relies on voice control for Mac and PC, offers his favorite microphone options for great results:https://9to5mac.com/2021/12/28/accurate-mac-speech-recognition-is-all-about-the-mic-says-quadriplegic-user/
12) How To Enable, Disable, And Create Custom High Contrast Themes On Windows 10 And Windows 11
High contrast color schemes are different to light and dark mode and may make your screen easier to see. Learn how to customize them, and easily turn them on and off in Windows 10 and 11:https://www.onmsft.com/how-to/enable-high-contrast-themes-on-windows-10
13) iOS 15 Settings You Should Change On Your iPhone 13 Right Now
Customize your iOS 15 experience with these must-know settings:https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/ios-15-settings-you-should-change-on-your-iphone-13-right-now/
14) 8 Google Product Advancements Launched in 2021 That You May Have Overlooked
This article outlines eight valuable advancements that came to Google products in 2021 that you may not be aware of:https://thegoaspotlight.com/2021/12/25/8-news-that-google-has-launched-in-2021-that-you-may-have-overlooked/
15) Hear Conversations Better with Pixel's Updated Sound Amplifier
The Sound Amplifier accessibility feature is available on Pixel 3 and above. This may be just what you need to hear conversations more clearly in noisy environments:https://android.gadgethacks.com/how-to/hear-conversations-better-with-pixels-updated-sound-amplifier-0384928/
16) How To Zoom the Display in Android
Android makes it easy to magnify anything on the screen. Find out how to use this popular accessibility feature to enhance visibility:https://www.bollyinside.com/articles/how-to-zoom-the-display-in-android/
17) Google Shares 'Getting To Know Your Pixel' ASL Guide | Video
Google posts a Getting to Know Your Pixel video with American Sign Language (ASL). Although aimed at the Pixel range, most features discussed are available on current Android smartphones:https://9to5google.com/2021/12/23/google-pixel-asl-video/
18) Hadley Presents: Ask the Experts | Alexa: Lists and Reminders
https://hadley.edu/workshops/alexa-series/alexa-lists-and-reminders19) Hands-on with Microsoft's Brilliantly Simple Surface Adaptive Kit
Accessibility in tech has never been more critical, and Microsoft is taking the lead with its $15 kit:https://www.windowscentral.com/hands-microsofts-brilliant-surface-adaptive-kit
20) Did You Know Gmail Has Dozens Of Handy Keyboard Shortcuts?
https://www.ricksdailytips.com/gmail-keyboard-shortcuts/➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Accessibility Awareness Is On The Rise, But Is It Turning Into Action?
This article is a good summary of the state of digital accessibility. The accessibility of free versus paid apps on mobile devices was particularly interesting. It also demonstrates a good thought; it is more than product development teams that need accessibility support and training:https://techcrunch.com/2021/12/26/accessibility-awareness-is-on-the-rise-but-is-it-turning-into-action/
2) How To Set Up That New Windows 11 Laptop You Received This Holiday
Please note that this walk through is not accessibility specific. Did you get a new Windows 11 laptop? Here are the best tips to set it up:https://www.windowscentral.com/how-set-new-windows-11-laptop-you-received-holiday
3) Why Are Fewer People Chatting With Alexa?
Here is a thought-provoking article discussing the lack of discovery for smart speaker abilities and the transition to smart displays:https://staceyoniot.com/why-are-fewer-people-chatting-with-alexa/
4) LastPass Says No Passwords Were Compromised Following Reports Of Unauthorized Logins
This accessible password manager had a security scare this week, but it claims that no passwords were stolen. All the same, turning on multi-factor authentication and even changing your master password are good advice:https://9to5mac.com/2021/12/28/lastpass-says-no-passwords-were-compromised-following-reports-of-unauthorized-logins/
5) San Francisco Lighthouse For The Blind Sues AudioEye's Customer For Web Accessibility Issues
ADP, the human resources management software and resources giant, was sued for consistent failures in AudioEye services and products for blind people, despite working with them for a long time for website remediation:https://en.brinkwire.com/technology/san-francisco-lighthouse-for-the-blind-sues-audioeyes-customer-for-web-accessibility-issues/
6) Why New York City May Soon Be More Walkable for Blind People
A federal judge ordered New York City to install more than 9,000 accessible pedestrian signals at city crosswalks:https://www.nytimes.com/2021/12/27/nyregion/nyc-crosswalk-blind-people.html
7) Best Windows Laptops With Full Number Pads 2021
Whether it's for data entry, accounting, or just entering numbers and calculations with precision and speed, there are plenty of reasons to have a number pad on a laptop. Even though laptops are getting smaller, you can still purchase several excellent Windows laptops with full number pads. Every one of these devices has a full number pad, and each is one of the best Windows laptop picks in the category:https://www.windowscentral.com/best-windows-laptops-full-number-pads
8) Best Of 2021: How Accessible Are Zelda, Pokémon And Animal Crossing For Blind Gamers?
Top Nintendo Switch games evaluated for players with vision loss:https://www.nintendolife.com/features/best-of-2021-how-accessible-are-zelda-pokemon-and-animal-crossing-for-blind-gamers
9) TPGi 2021 Recap: New Products, Feature Releases, And Services
As we head in 2022, we'd like to take a minute to reflect on how TPGi has changed over the course of 2021 and what we've been able to create. But first, we'd like to thank everyone on the TPGi team: accessibility engineers, product developers, project managers — we couldn't have done it without you! Here are some of the highlights from 2021:https://www.tpgi.com/tpgi-2021-recap-new-products-feature-releases-and-services/
10) Canadian Company Builds A Better Box Of Chocolates Using Braille
A move by a Canadian chocolate maker to produce packaging for blind and partially sighted people is one of several campaigns this year by companies trying to make their products more accessible to people with disabilities (PWD):https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/braille-boxes-accessible-packaging-1.6296659
11) I'm Blind But Technology Helps Me Animate
Elodie Bateson has been blind since birth. But the 11-year-old from Limavady has become an expert at making short animated movies:https://newsnationusa.com/news/world/uk/im-blind-but-technology-helps-me-animate/
12) Clovernook Changing the Landscape for the Visually Impaired One Card at a Time
Clovernook Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired is embarking on a collaboration with TriHealth to create accessible business cards for more than 11,000 health care professionals. It means that anyone who is blind or low vision will be able to easily access the information on a card that sighted people take for granted:https://www.wlwt.com/article/clovernook-creating-business-cards-to-help-the-visually-impaired/38600681
13) Visually Impaired Photographer Composes Shots Using Sounds and Touch
Esaraa Ismail is visually impaired but hasn't let that stop her from taking up photography. Instead of relying on her eye, she uses her senses of hearing and touch to guide her throughout the image-taking process:https://petapixel.com/2021/12/23/visually-impaired-photographer-composes-shots-using-sounds-and-touch/
14) Hy-Vee Pharmacies Now Offer Talking Prescription Labels in 26 Languages
Hy-Vee, Inc. announces that talking prescription labels are now available in 26 languages to visually and print-impaired patients at Hy-Vee's more than 275 Hy-Vee Pharmacy locations:https://www.envisionamerica.com/post/hy-vee-pharmacies-now-offer-talking-prescription-labels-in-26-languages
15) Talking Labels Aid the Blind with Prescriptions
Mistakes can have life-threatening consequences. The challenge is exacerbated for folks who don't see well or have a severe visual impairment though some blind people have learned to figure out which pill is which by feeling its shape or texture:https://www.aarp.org/home-family/personal-technology/info-2021/talking-prescription-drug-labels.html
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Blind Android Users 55 | Christmas Special, Restore Your Pixel to Factory Using Online Flash Tool
December 25th 2021 | In this Christmas special episode we first show you how to opt your Pixel out of Android Beta Testing Program. We then show you, how to flash your pixel devices back to factory image of Android or what to do if your supported pixel device suddenly stops receiving monthly updates. We then show you a social network app Datchat. In our talkback highlights we show you some of the custem jestures in details. To listen to the podcast, please visit:https://blindandroidusers.com/category/bauposts/shownotes/
2) Eyes on Success 2153 Behind the Scenes at Eyes On Success
December 29th 2021There are many steps that go into hosting and producing a successful podcast. This week hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey walk listeners through the process that they follow in putting each episode of Eyes On Success together. From deciding on topics and people to interview through the distribution of episodes to listeners around the world, you'll hear it all. Join us next year as we begin our 12th year of hosting and producing the show:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202153.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) World Braille Day 2022 | Braillists Foundations World Braille Day 2022 Celebratory Event
January 4th 2022 | 11:30 AM PT, 12:P30 PM MT, 1:30PM CT, 2:30PM ET, 7:30 PM GMT | Please join us for a special panel event to celebrate the fourth occurrence of this internationally recognised day where we'll be focusing on Braille's usage around the world. To help us out, we're delighted to announce that we'll be joined by a panel of distinguished Braille practitioners and thought leaders who will be providing a truly international and diverse perspective on topics such as Braille learning & uptake, challenges, what we need to do to increase adoption moving forwards and much, much more. If you are struggling to complete the form, please email help@braillists.org and one of the team will assist you. Register at:https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYocOiopjwpEtzbIVygj_oSj4faFC9UES1T
2) Assistive Technology for Blind Individuals Overview: Screen Readers | Access Ingenuity
January 5th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | It is not uncommon for individuals to associate a screen reader with the wrong operating system. In some cases, some do not even know a screen reader exists for a specific device. Join Zhi Huang, Mark Schafer, and Rachel Reeves from Access Ingenuity as they provide an overview of the different screen readers. Learning Outcomes: Provide an overview of the different screen readers for various operating systems. Explain the different devices the screen readers and operating systems support. Briefly discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the different combinations of a screen reader with an operating system. | Meeting ID: 861 2992 0015 | Passcode: 693640 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,86129920015#,,,,*693640# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86129920015?pwd=VDBwQ1dSNXliK0dJRFNYdG1xS0hSUT09
3) A Tour of Microsoft Outlook | Sight And Sound Technology
January 5th 2022 | 6AM PT, 7AM MT, 8AM CT, 9AM ET, 2PM GMT | We're kicking off January by delving into one of the most popular applications in the Microsoft Office suite. Outlook is an Information management system, used for processing mail, calendar appointments, tasks, notes, contacts and so much more. It is used everywhere and, you won't be surprised to know that it has lots of keyboard shortcuts. Join us for our first Webinar Wednesday of 2022 when Sight and Sound Technology's Sharon Lyons takes us on a tour of Microsoft Outlook and shares some top tips for success with this application. Register here:https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_tx7gvzTOS06C3KKaFZid9g
4) Remote Tools: Zoom Remote Control vs. JAWS Tandem | Access Ingenuity
January 12th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Although many have been using remote tools to connect with each other recently, there are still individuals who have questions about using remote tools with assistive technology. Join Ian Ramos, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity to compare the Zoom Meetings Remote Control tool versus the JAWS Tandem feature. Learning Outcomes: Explain the requirements of both tools. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of Zoom Remote Control versus JAWS Tandem. Provide a demonstration of both features. | Meeting ID: 820 1996 4784 | Passcode: 251037 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,82019964784#,,,,*251037# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82019964784?pwd=WG90ZVdpQWNVTXFNOVJCbVZhSXRtQT09
5) Low Vision Basics - The Importance of Lighting, Eye Protection, and Magnification | Freedom Scientific
January 13th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Bill Kilroy, Ana Tello, Mike Wood, and Michelle Williams on Thursday, January 13, 2022, as they discuss some of the basics, such as lighting, eye protection, and magnification, to help with low vision. Objectives 1. Learn why different temperatures of lighting can be important. 2. Discover the differences between optical and video magnifiers.3. Determine why filtered lenses can help protect your eyes. Summary. Lighting: Proper lighting is essential to everyone, not only those who are visually impaired. Our wide range of lighting solutions significantly impacts daily living activities, like reading, writing, and crafts. Eye Protection: Our Improvision PROSHIELD filter lenses offer protection against harmful UV light while improving contrast and reducing glare. They selectively filter out the blue light while maintaining all other spectral colors. They are designed for indoor and outdoor use and are available in two frame styles and multiple color lenses. Each is also available with added 60% tint. Optical Magnification: We offer a wide array of magnifiers with different LED light options (natural, neutral, and cool white). Be it the good, the better, or the best series, all of them are made in Germany by our partner, SCHWEIZER, and feature premium optical lenses. We also offer the world's only magnifier series with wireless charging, eliminating the need to replace batteries. Video Magnification: We'll wrap up this webinar discussing our most popular handheld and foldable video magnifiers for active seniors, students, and those with limited space. Register at:https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_alC8AZbeTgGXyLX5iElgvQ
6) Google Drive and Docs with JAWS | Access Ingenuity
January 19th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | While Google Drive and Docs have grown in popularity over the past few years, this is not necessarily the case for many JAWS users. The reason is likely because some specific set up is required to work with these Google products on Windows with assistive technology. While this is documented in Google's help, unfortunately, not everybody reads this information. Join Zhi Huang, Marisa Church, and Rachel Reeves from Access Ingenuity to explore key settings and tips to better work with Google Drive and Docs with JAWS. Learning Outcomes: Compare the Google Drive website to the desktop app and discussed the advantages of each while working with a screen reader. Explore the settings in Google Docs that are critical while using assistive technology. Explore basic Google Docs features including menus, getting help, searching for commands, and editing text. Meeting ID: 836 7127 4943 | Passcode: 248634 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83671274943#,,,,*248634# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83671274943?pwd=ZE9kQTRPbWxZZXVWTmpTRCt4UGpZUT09
7) Prep and Proof Word Documents with the Microsoft Editor and JAWS | Freedom Scientific
January 20th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Are you looking for ways to refine and polish Word documents? Want to know how to navigate the Microsoft Editor more efficiently? Join us for a live webinar, "Prep and Proof Word Documents with the Microsoft Editor and JAWS," on Thursday, January 20, 2022, at noon Eastern Time. The Microsoft Editor contains proofing features to check spelling and grammar, plus provides readability statistics based on options you choose. We'll provide an overview of its features and show you how to: Access the Microsoft Editor using keyboard commands. Check spelling and grammar. Review and select suggested edits. Review readability statistics. Run a subsequent edit on a document. Register at:https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_FUfHcHelRqmp5TXxlKgEVw
8) Windows 11 with JAWS | Access Ingenuity
January 26th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Since the recent release of Windows 11, there have been many questions regarding JAWS' compatibility with this new version of Windows. Join Ian Ramos, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity to explore Windows 11 with JAWS basics. Learning Outcomes: Discuss requirements for automatic eligibility for Windows 11. Explain some things you will gain and lose. Explore the different methods of performing this upgrade. Provide a demonstration of Windows 11. | Meeting ID: 836 5787 8970 | Passcode: 588932 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83657878970#,,,,*588932# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83657878970?pwd=OUVvTEhuVUpLNkNDU2RnMXhjZ2p2dz09
9) ATHEN (Access Technology Higher Education Network) 1st Annual "Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM) Accessibility: Starting with Math"
February 10th 2022 and February 11th 2022 | This virtual conference will take place on February 10th and 11th 2022. We are striving to create a diverse conference where experts can share their best practices, solutions, techniques, etc. for accessing and creating accessible STEM content in higher education. Join us! | Call for Proposal (Google Form) (Open now!) | Brush up by taking a sneak peek into the complexities in creating accessible STEM content in the YouTube video "Factors Involved in Making STEM Content Accessible" (10-minutes). | Conference Details, Dates, Registration, Cost:.https://athenpro.org/content/athen-virtual-conference
10) Axe-Con 2022
March 15th 2022 through March 17th 2022 | Axe-con is an open and inclusive digital accessibility conference that welcomes developers, designers, business users, and accessibility professionals of all experience levels to a new kind of accessibility conference focused on building, testing, and maintaining accessible digital experiences. Register for Axe-Con 2022, it's free! Join us for this three-day, multi-track conference to help further your digital accessibility efforts. Hear from the top experts in the field, for your area of interest with none of the noise. Learn more about why you should attend or get started by saving your seat by registering now:https://www.deque.com/axe-con/
11) The 21st Annual Multiple Perspective Conference at The Ohio State University
April 11th 2022 and April 12th 2022 | Conditions permitting, we will meet in person, provisions will be made for presenters with travel restrictions. "If I were just a woman, he could not do this to me; if I were only a person of color, he would not be able to do this to me; my conclusion was that the only reason that you are able to take this unfair advantage is because I also have a disability." "My own personal identity is very much tied into who I am as a woman of color and as a disabled person, and I try not to distinguish between the three identities anymore". These quotes from Johnnie Lacy capture the flavor to this year's theme for Multiple Perspective's ongoing exploration of disability as a reflection of the human condition. A lived experience seen through multiple lenses of identity, work, school, human rights, theory, discipline, and law. Preference will be given to presentations that explore parallels, distinctions, lessons and impacts of disability across and within identity groups and models:https://ada.osu.edu/presentations-2022
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: GuideLights and Gadgets
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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!
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➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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About: Double Tap TV is a weekly tech show on AMI-tv, (also available on CBC Gem in Canada and YouTube). Each week join hosts Steven Scott (@blindguytech) and Marc Aflalo (@marcaflalo) as they help viewers better understand how technology can assist in everyday life. Its tech from an accessible point of view! The show features interviews with some of the biggest names in consumer tech and features up and coming companies and services.
Sponsor: HIMS, Inc.
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Website: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/ 🌐
Blind Mice Order Center Phone: (866) 922-8877 📱️
Blind Mice Order Center Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM CST/CDT (GMT-5) Monday through Friday
Mall Directory of Stores: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/bmm/shop/Directory 🛒
Join The Today's Cheese Newsletter: Join the Today's Cheese newsletter to get Members' Only sales & Unadvertised Specials from the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You can save money with these unadvertised specials! Send an email to: TodaysCheese+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
Blind Mice Swap Shop: Sell, Swap, and Buy. The Mice receive calls everyday asking if we buy or sell used or unwanted items. The Mice don't sell used products but to help our members, we created the Blind Mice Swap Shop! The Blind Mice Swap Shop is the place for Sellers, Traders, & Buyers to find each other! Do you ... have something you don't want anymore... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something you just don't use... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something new to sell... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Provide a service that might be helpful to other Blind and Visually Impaired folks... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Have an announcement about an upcoming event beneficial to the Blind & Visually Impaired Community... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Joining the Blind Mice Swap Shop is free and as easy as sending an email to: BlindMiceSwapShop+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
About: Welcome to Blind Mice Mega Mall! The Mall with the Blind In Mind! Blind Mice Mega Mall is designed for use with a screen reader and low vision software for visually impaired shoppers. Each store is an independent business owned / managed by a member of the Blind / Low Vision Community. Please browse & shop the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You will find great items and unique offerings from our merchants. You help the Blind Community every time you make a purchase from any of the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. Every purchase made at Blind Mice Mega Mall gives back to the Blind and Visually Impaired Community. Proceeds from sales fund the MouseHole Scholarship Program, the Cooking In The Dark Show and The Movie Vault. Blind Mice Mega Mall accepts American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, Checks, and Money Orders. Purchase Orders From State Agencies are also welcome.
Sponsor: Carroll Center for the Blind
➜ New Spring Session of Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
https://carroll.org/screen-reader-user-tester-training-program/
Sponsor Since: August 5th 2021
Website: https://carroll.org/ 🌐
Phone: (617) 969-6200 📱️
Fax: (617) 969-6204 ░Shop: https://carroll.org/store/ 🛒
Donate: https://carroll.org/donate ❤
Social: Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | LinkedIn | Instagram
About: The Carroll Center for the Blind is the foremost leader in vision rehabilitation services for individuals confronted by the challenges of vision loss. Our mission is to empower those who are blind or visually impaired to achieve independence and to lead a fulfilling life. Established in 1936, the renowned Carroll Center for the Blind has been serving those with vision impairment for over eight decades; we are known nationally as a premier Vision Rehabilitation Center. Located just outside of Boston on a sprawling campus in Newton, Massachusetts, we proudly serve ALL ages and ALL stages of vision loss. With the ongoing promise of improving the lives of people with vision-related problems, The Carroll Center for the Blind has pioneered many innovative services allowing people who are blind or have low vision to learn the skills to be independent in their homes, in class settings, and in their work places. Our services include vision rehabilitation, vocational and transition programs, assistive technology training, educational support, and recreation opportunities for individuals who are visually impaired of all ages. For over 80 years, the expertise of Carroll Center staff has provided help for thousands of blind and visually impaired persons with diverse opportunities for success and independent living.
Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions
➜ Give the Gift of Equal Access!
https://scribeit.io/
Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ VisionAware Resources: The Reader's Digest Getting Started Guide to Vision Loss
https://visionaware.org/
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/123020211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Coding is Easy and Accessible with Colby the Code & Go Robot Mouse
https://www.aph.org/product/accessible-code-and-go-mouse/
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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.
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, December 23, 2021 - Volume 838 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, December 23, 2021 - Volume 838
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: No Sponsorship Packages Currently Available. Please Consider Joining Our Waiting List Today. This Issue Made Possible By Sponsorship Support From The Following Sponsors:
This issue made possible by sponsorship support from: A. T. Guys, GuideLights And Gadgets, American Printing House, LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store, HumanWare, APH ConnectCenter, Freedom Scientific, Pneuma Solutions, Carroll Center for the Blind, Blind Mice Mega Mall, HIMS, Inc. and Double Tap TV.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Your Feedback Is Important To Us At Google: (5.6% of all clicks.)https://userresearch.google.com/?reserved=0
B.) JAWS Power Tip: Copy Speech History to the Clipboard: (5.3% of all clicks.)
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/45.html
C.) The Ultimate Guide To Keyboard Shortcuts In Windows 11: (4.8% of all clicks.)
https://www.xda-developers.com/windows-11-keyboard-shortcuts/
D.) How to Use Alexa to Get Help in an Emergency: (4.4% of all clicks.)
https://www.makeuseof.com/get-help-with-alexa-emergency/
E.) For Low-Vision People Like Me, Autonomous Driving Could Change Everything: (4.0% of all clicks.)
https://groundtruthautonomy.com/how-low-vision-people-benefit-from-autonomous-vehicles/
2) The Next Wave of Log4J Attacks Will Be Brutal | Wired
So far, Log4Shell has resulted mostly in cryptomining and a little espionage. The really bad stuff is just around the corner:https://www.wired.com/story/log4j-log4shell-vulnerability-ransomware-second-wave/
3) Hey Alexa
A) Want to ask Santa for stories, jokes, songs and more? Just say, "Alexa, enable Hey Santa."B) With your smart plug and Alexa, you can turn on your Christmas lights and play festive music when you say "Alexa, Merry Christmas." Customize the routine using the Alexa app by saying, "Alexa, enable Merry Christmas routine."
C) Parents can entertain family with kid-friendly skills this holiday season. To use kid skills, a parent or guardian must first provide permission. Just say, "Alexa, what are your kid skills?"
D) No Fireplace? No problem. Listen to ambient fireplace sounds to help you sleep, relax, meditate, relieve stress, or block out unwanted noise. Just say, "Alexa, play Fireplace sounds."
4) Fusion Power Tip: Capture Magnified Area
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/46.html
5) The 7 Best Text-to-Speech Chrome Extensions
Text-to-speech programs can be an incredibly vital tool for many. If you're looking for one, here are the seven best text-to-speech Chrome extensions:https://www.makeuseof.com/best-chrome-text-to-speech-extensions/
6) With iOS 15.2 Siri Is Back As Always: Voice Commands For The Visually Impaired Have Been Reinstated
Here is a list of the functionalities that were reinstated:https://voonze.com/with-ios-15-2-siri-is-back-as-always-voice-commands-for-the-visually-impaired-have-been-reinstated/
7) AAPD Is Pleased To Offer The AAPD-Microsoft STEM Internship
Thanks to generous support from Microsoft, AAPD is pleased to offer the AAPD-Microsoft STEM Internship Program within the broader 2022 Summer Internship Program for two interns with disabilities with a background in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Applications are closed for 2022 but will be opened in the Fall of 2022 for Summer 2023 Internships:https://www.aapd.com/stem-internship-program/
8) Sirius XM Sued For Failing To Provide Podcast Transcripts For Deaf Users
This article reports on the National Association for the Deaf's suit claiming that SiriusXM's podcast services are inaccessible because of a lack of transcripts:https://www.theverge.com/2021/12/14/22834002/siriusxm-lawsuit-transcripts-deaf-users-ada-pandora-stitcher-podcast
9) What Is Visual Description? As Events Evolve, Greater Accessibility For The Disability Community Emerges
This blogpost from Microsoft describes the practice of providing visual descriptions during meetings and conferences, something Microsoft employees optionally provided at the recent Ignite Conference:https://blogs.microsoft.com/on-the-issues/2021/11/05/what-is-visual-description-as-events-evolve-greater-accessibility-for-the-disability-community-emerges/
10) What Is Android Accessibility Suite?
This article describes the features in the Android Accessibility Suite:https://fossbytes.com/what-is-android-accessibility-suite/
11) 4 Common Ways Companies Alienate People with Disabilities
This article contains a lot of good advice for anyone looking to improve the accessibility of their digital products and services:https://hbr.org/2021/11/4-common-ways-companies-alienate-people-with-disabilities
12) Emojis and Accessibility: The Dos and Don'ts of Including Emojis in Texts and Emails
This article gives some dos and don'ts for emoji in messages and social media for accessibility:https://blog.easterseals.com/emojis-and-accessibility-the-dos-and-donts-of-including-emojis-in-texts-and-emails/
13) How to Limit What a Toddler Can Do When You Hand Over Your iPhone or iPad
This article shows you how to use the lesser-known accessibility feature, Guided Access, to limit what someone can do on your iPhone or iPad:https://www.macrumors.com/how-to/lock-iphone-ipad-in-single-app/
14) Halo, Forza, And 5 More Games That Pushed Accessibility Forward In 2021
These seven major video games set the standard for accessibility in 2021:https://www.inverse.com/gaming/accessibility-in-games-2021-halo-infinite-forza-horizon-5
15) Ray-Ban Stories Update Makes The Glasses A Lot More Useful For Messaging
A recent update to the Ray-Ban Stories smart glasses adds voice access to Messenger and more:https://www.androidcentral.com/ray-ban-stories-update-messenger-hands-free-support
16) How to Use the Zoom Feature on iPhone
This popular accessibility feature on iPhones and iPads can magnify any screen content and reduce visual fatigue:https://www.idropnews.com/how-to/how-to-use-the-zoom-feature-on-iphone/175482/
17) Windows 11 Build 22523 (And Earlier): Everything You Need To Know
Windows Central provides a comprehensive overview of what's in the latest Windows 11 preview builds so you can decide if they're worth installing:https://www.windowscentral.com/windows-11-build-22523-and-earlier-everything-you-need-know
18) How To Share Your Wi-Fi Password
This short and sharp Apple support video shows you how to easily share your Wi-Fi password with a fellow Apple user:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjPeuBVcMyg
19) Google Invites Users To Test New App That Helps People With Atypical Speech Communicate Easily (Video)
Google are still looking for volunteers with atypical speech to help advance speech recognition technology through Project Relate:http://attoday.co.uk/video-google-invites-users-to-test-new-app-that-helps-people-with-atypical-speech-communicate-easily/
20) Tips for Hosting with Vision Loss | Recording | Hadley Presents: A Conversation with the Experts Podcast | December 17th 2021
Hadley learner Sharon Noseworthy shares tips and tricks for hosting get-togethers of any type or size, no matter your vision. Sharon has always loved the role of hostess and has learned to adjust her approach now that her own vision has declined:https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/tips-hosting-vision-loss
21) Voice Dream Reader for MacOS Now in Beta
You need the latest MacOS, Monterey. Sign up here:https://testflight.apple.com/join/bizyFnIn
22) NVDA 2021.3.1 Released
This release introduces support for the new HID Braille specification. This specification aims to standardize support for Braille Displays without needing individual drivers. There are updates to eSpeak-NG and LibLouis, including new Russian and Tshivenda tables. Error sounds can be enabled in stable builds of NVDA via a new advanced settings option. Say all in Word now scrolls the view to keep the current position visible. There are lots of improvements when using Office with UIA. One UIA fix is that Outlook now ignores more types of layout tables in messages. Download at:https://www.nvaccess.org/post/nvda-2021-3-1/
23) Jon Jon on the Job: Tech Hacks for the Blind or Visually Impaired | Video | ABC Cincinnati Channel 9 WCPO
Texttoreplace.https://www.wcpo.com/marketplace/cincylifestyle/jon-jon-on-the-job-tech-hacks-for-the-blind-or-visually-impaired
24) 10 Amazing Apple iPhone Accessibility Tips You Might Not Be Aware Of
Here are the top ten of Apple's amazing iPhone accessibility features you can use to wow your whole family with this Christmas:https://www.hellomagazine.com/news/20211217129234/apple-iphone-accessibility-tips/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Industry Leading HR and Payroll Company ADP Works with LightHouse to Enhance Accessibility of Products to Blind Users
The LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired of San Francisco and blind LightHouse staff members reached an agreement with the Professional Employer Organization ADP TotalSource® to enhance the accessibility and usability of the ADP Workforce Now® solution to LightHouse staff who are blind or have low vision and use screen-reading software to access digital content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/industry-leading-hr-and-payroll-company-adp-works-with-lighthouse-to-enhance-accessibility-of-products-to-blind-users-301447059.html
2) Retailers To Lose $828 Million Of Sales Over Christmas Due To Inaccessible Websites
Research undertaken by UserWay, a leader in website accessibility automation, has identified that e-commerce retailers stand to lose an estimated $828 million in revenue this Christmas as a result of poor website accessibility:https://www.forbes.com/sites/gusalexiou/2021/12/19/retailers-to-lose-828-million-of-sales-over-christmas-due-to-inaccessible-websites/?sh=73cd580635b5
3) Gifts For People Who Are Blind And The People Who Love Them
Here's a few ideas for holiday giving this year, with a special focus on small businesses and visually impaired entrepreneurs from Perkins School for the Blind:https://www.perkins.org/resource/gift-ideas-for-people-who-are-blind/
4) Holiday Braille Box: New Purdys Release Offers Accessible Chocolate Experience
Created for and with the blind and partially sighted community in mind, Canadian chocolatier Purdys released the Holiday Braille Box earlier this month. Global News Weekend's Mike Arsenault and Aalia Adam have more, including YouTuber Molly Burke's take on the box:https://globalnews.ca/video/8461800/holiday-braille-box-new-purdys-release-offers-accessible-chocolate-experience
5) Disabled Passengers Were Promised Autonomous Vehicles — They're Still Waiting
This article highlights some of the challenges and opportunities in autonomous vehicles for users with disabilities and is worth a read:https://www.theverge.com/22832657/autonomous-vehicles-disabled-accessible-challenges-design
6) Navigational Apps for the Blind Could Have a Broader Appeal
A proliferation of new apps designed to help blind and low vision people could prove useful for everyone:https://www.nytimes.com/2021/12/20/technology/navigational-apps-blind-low-vision.html
7) Feds Adopt Better Street Accessibility Guidelines — But Will They Make a Difference?
Even though the Americans with Disabilities Act was passed more than 40 years ago, we have never had official accessibility standards tailored to things like sidewalks, curb ramp, and pedestrian push buttons. That's about to change:https://usa.streetsblog.org/2021/12/17/opinion-feds-adopt-better-accessibility-guidelines-for-city-streets-but-will-it-make-a-difference/
8) Halo, Forza, And 5 More Games That Pushed Accessibility Forward In 2021
Not every game is for everyone, but these titles make inclusivity a priority:https://www.inverse.com/gaming/accessibility-in-games-2021-halo-infinite-forza-horizon-5
9) Translink Begins Installing Braille Signs On All 8,400 Bus Stops
Bus passengers who are blind or partially sighted will greatly benefit from the installation of braille signs with helpful information on every bus stop in Metro Vancouver:https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/translink-bus-braille-signs-tactile-surface-installation
10) FCC Proposes New Rules To Make Emergency Alerts More Accessible For People Hard Of Hearing
It wants broadcasters to use internet alerts instead of TV alerts whenever possible:https://www.theverge.com/2021/12/15/22837546/fcc-proposes-new-rules-emergency-alerts-accessible-deaf-hearing
11) CT Universities Pilot Career Program For People With Disabilities
The Connecticut State Colleges and Universities announced this week a careers program in digital accessibility. Specialists suport the production of accessible content and materials, from alternative text on images that are read aloud to blind users, to fonts legible for people with dyslexia:https://www.fairfieldcitizenonline.com/news/article/CT-universities-pilot-career-program-for-people-16707780.php?t=fe96839ed4
12) Translink To Install Braille Signage And Tactile Walking Surface Indicators At Bus Stops
The signage and surface indicators are part of TransLink's larger initiative to become one of the most accessible systems in the world:https://www.masstransitmag.com/technology/passenger-info/signage-and-displays/press-release/21250538/translink-translink-to-install-braille-signage-and-tactile-walking-surface-indicators-at-bus-stops
13) Accessible Pharmacy Wins the FCC Award for Advancement in Accessibility
The FCC hosted a virtual ceremony December 1st to honor this year's winners of the FCC Chair's Award for Advancement in Accessibility (Chair's AAA). The ceremony featured a keynote address from FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel and acceptance speeches from each of the award winners:https://www.openpr.com/news/2502114/accessible-pharmacy-wins-the-fcc-award-for-advancement
14) Inclusive Collaboration: Making Webex Accessible to All Users
Tips for hosting more inclusive Webex meetings:https://www.marketscreener.com/quote/stock/CISCO-SYSTEMS-INC-4862/news/Inclusive-Collaboration-Making-Webex-Accessible-to-All-Users-37346125/
15) #GamesForBlindGamers Initiative To Create Better Games For Blind Players
The 31-day jam, hosted on itch.io and launched by Nightblade on Twitter, is focused on bringing attention to a largely marginalized group of the gaming community, blind gamers, as well as bringing awareness to accessibility in gaming in general:https://gaminglyfe.com/gamesforblindgamers-initiative-to-create-better-games-for-blind-players/
16) Visually Impaired M'sian Woman Starts Cooking Channel, Thanks To Safer Modern Kitchen Tech
Ten years ago, Sharifah Shafiza Said Salleh lost her vision due to Amblyopia or the lazy eye disorder, but she refused to let this disability stop her from living a normal life:https://www.thestar.com.my/tech/tech-news/2021/12/17/visually-impaired-woman-starts-cooking-channel-thanks-to-safer-modern-kitchen-tech
17) Christmas Fund: Visually Impaired Mother Gets A Little Help From Her Kids
When I walk with my two older kids, they're the ones who tell me if it's a green light or red light. It's the opposite of most families:https://montrealgazette.com/news/local-news/christmas-fund-visually-impaired-mother-gets-a-little-help-from-her-kids
18) The Universal Symbol System Making Beauty Products Accessible To Blind Consumers
VictoriaLand Beauty's CyR.U.S. System is a tactile solution making beauty packaging and products accessible for blind and partially sighted consumers. Using raised symbols and embossed QR codes, consumers can navigate VictoriaLand's portfolio through touch and audio information on the product type, usage, and ingredients:https://packagingeurope.com/making-beauty-products-accessible-blind-consumers/
19) It's A True Frontier Of Game Design: How Naughty Dog And Insomniac Games Think About Accessibility
Challenge and accessibility can coexist in harmony with the right design choices:https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2021-12-18-its-a-true-frontier-of-game-design-how-naughty-dog-and-insomniac-games-think-about-accessibility
20) Letters To Santa In Braille: How A Lancaster Nonprofit Is Helping Kids Who Are Visually Impaired This Christmas
The week before Christmas is Santa's busiest time of year. And as he prepares to circle the globe on his annual gift-giving trip, he relies on some trusty helpers. One of Santa's special helpers is Erika Rothermel, 28, who teaches children who are blind and visually impaired with VisionCorps' early intervention program. This year she has another job title: Santa's helper with letters written in Braille:https://lancasteronline.com/features/entertainment/letters-to-santa-in-braille-how-a-lancaster-nonprofit-is-helping-kids-who-are-visually/article_ac5f7914-5f3c-11ec-930e-1707e72174ca.html
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther 40 | Holiday Trees and Accessible Gifts
December 12th 2021 | On episode 40 of the AMI Audio podcast "Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther" we are getting ready for the holidays. Ms. Lilly goes over some holiday tree options - artificial and real. Lawrence and Lilly review cool outdoor accessible gift options for adults and youth, and Lawrence reviews the new landmark GPS navigation feature recently made available in the Microsoft SoundScape app. Tune in and find out what the pair have to offer and kick off your holidays on the right foot:https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/episode-40-holiday-trees-and-accessible-gifts/id1530444764?i=1000544738113
2) Mosen At Large 162
December 18th 2021 Blind people teaching iPhone to the sighted, more on the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 carbon, and a little festive fun.https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/8f53ba60/blind-people-teaching-iphone-to-the-sighted-more-on-the-lenovo-thinkpad-x1-carbon-and-a-little-festive-fun
3) Blind Android Users 54 | One-Year Anniversary Celebration
December 19th 2021 | This week, it is our one-year anniversary celebration! Join us as we celebrate one year of the Blind Android Users podcast with some of our listeners! And discuss things from Androids to floppies dialup and beyond. To listen to the podcast, please visit:https://blindandroidusers.com/category/bauposts/shownotes/
4) DM85 | Cooky Ideas | MP3
December 20th 2021 | In the latest episode of the DM series, we talked about cookies and the importance of them when used properly. We then transition into a discussion of keeping ideas straight, some of our best ideas come to us at the strangest times. The most important thing however is to have a system in place that allows you the ability to get those ideas out of your head and into a tool you can reference later. Michael explains how he was using Todoist to capture his ideas and how that didn't quite work out. Michael also talked about exploring One Note as his ideas come to him and don't care what platform he's on. Our conversation then transitions into a brief discussion of why Damashe is switching from Audible and what he's going to do. Michael is switching the application he uses to track packages both personally and for work. You learn why he switched from deliveries to parcel, and what his initial thoughts are. To listen to the podcast, please visit:https://storage.pinecast.net/podcasts/ee48a2ba-0fb2-4a6d-9f0f-207e3f3ca541/audio/afd47f6f-a117-4fd4-b022-b8ba070f7c3b/DM85_-_Cooky_Ideas.mp3
5) Eyes on Success 2152 Apple HomeKit and the Smart Home
December 22nd 2021There are a myriad of devices based on the Apple Home Kit, but how are they used and which have the functionality you might be looking for? Hosts Peter and Nancy Torpey talk with Dustin Boggus, who is visually impaired himself, about his "MyHomeKitHome" videos, blog, and website that aim to show users what can be expected from such devices and how they work:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202152.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Assistive Technology for Blind Individuals Overview: Screen Readers | Access Ingenuity
January 5th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | It is not uncommon for individuals to associate a screen reader with the wrong operating system. In some cases, some do not even know a screen reader exists for a specific device. Join Zhi Huang, Mark Schafer, and Rachel Reeves from Access Ingenuity as they provide an overview of the different screen readers. Learning Outcomes: Provide an overview of the different screen readers for various operating systems. Explain the different devices the screen readers and operating systems support. Briefly discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the different combinations of a screen reader with an operating system. | Meeting ID: 861 2992 0015 | Passcode: 693640 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,86129920015#,,,,*693640# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86129920015?pwd=VDBwQ1dSNXliK0dJRFNYdG1xS0hSUT09
2) A Tour of Microsoft Outlook | Sight And Sound Technology
January 5th 2021 | 6AM PT, 7AM MT, 8AM CT, 9AM ET, 2PM GMT | We're kicking off January by delving into one of the most popular applications in the Microsoft Office suite. Outlook is an Information management system, used for processing mail, calendar appointments, tasks, notes, contacts and so much more. It is used everywhere and, you won't be surprised to know that it has lots of keyboard shortcuts. Join us for our first Webinar Wednesday of 2022 when Sight and Sound Technology's Sharon Lyons takes us on a tour of Microsoft Outlook and shares some top tips for success with this application. Register here:https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_tx7gvzTOS06C3KKaFZid9g
3) Remote Tools: Zoom Remote Control vs. JAWS Tandem | Access Ingenuity
January 12th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Although many have been using remote tools to connect with each other recently, there are still individuals who have questions about using remote tools with assistive technology. Join Ian Ramos, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity to compare the Zoom Meetings Remote Control tool versus the JAWS Tandem feature. Learning Outcomes: Explain the requirements of both tools. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of Zoom Remote Control versus JAWS Tandem. Provide a demonstration of both features. | Meeting ID: 820 1996 4784 | Passcode: 251037 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,82019964784#,,,,*251037# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82019964784?pwd=WG90ZVdpQWNVTXFNOVJCbVZhSXRtQT09
4) Google Drive and Docs with JAWS | Access Ingenuity
January 19th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | While Google Drive and Docs have grown in popularity over the past few years, this is not necessarily the case for many JAWS users. The reason is likely because some specific set up is required to work with these Google products on Windows with assistive technology. While this is documented in Google's help, unfortunately, not everybody reads this information. Join Zhi Huang, Marisa Church, and Rachel Reeves from Access Ingenuity to explore key settings and tips to better work with Google Drive and Docs with JAWS. Learning Outcomes: Compare the Google Drive website to the desktop app and discussed the advantages of each while working with a screen reader. Explore the settings in Google Docs that are critical while using assistive technology. Explore basic Google Docs features including menus, getting help, searching for commands, and editing text. Meeting ID: 836 7127 4943 | Passcode: 248634 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83671274943#,,,,*248634# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83671274943?pwd=ZE9kQTRPbWxZZXVWTmpTRCt4UGpZUT09
5) Windows 11 with JAWS | Access Ingenuity
January 26th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Since the recent release of Windows 11, there have been many questions regarding JAWS' compatibility with this new version of Windows. Join Ian Ramos, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity to explore Windows 11 with JAWS basics. Learning Outcomes: Discuss requirements for automatic eligibility for Windows 11. Explain some things you will gain and lose. Explore the different methods of performing this upgrade. Provide a demonstration of Windows 11. | Meeting ID: 836 5787 8970 | Passcode: 588932 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83657878970#,,,,*588932# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83657878970?pwd=OUVvTEhuVUpLNkNDU2RnMXhjZ2p2dz09
6) ATHEN (Access Technology Higher Education Network) 1st Annual "Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM) Accessibility: Starting with Math"
February 10th 2022 and February 11th 2022 | This virtual conference will take place on February 10th and 11th 2022. We are striving to create a diverse conference where experts can share their best practices, solutions, techniques, etc. for accessing and creating accessible STEM content in higher education. Join us! | Call for Proposal (Google Form) (Open now!) | Brush up by taking a sneak peek into the complexities in creating accessible STEM content in the YouTube video "Factors Involved in Making STEM Content Accessible" (10-minutes). | Conference Details, Dates, Registration, Cost:.https://athenpro.org/content/athen-virtual-conference
7) Axe-Con 2022
March 15th 2022 through March 17th 2022 | Axe-con is an open and inclusive digital accessibility conference that welcomes developers, designers, business users, and accessibility professionals of all experience levels to a new kind of accessibility conference focused on building, testing, and maintaining accessible digital experiences. Register for Axe-Con 2022, it's free! Join us for this three-day, multi-track conference to help further your digital accessibility efforts. Hear from the top experts in the field, for your area of interest with none of the noise. Learn more about why you should attend or get started by saving your seat by registering now:https://www.deque.com/axe-con/
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ GuideLights And Gadgets: New Leather Bags To End The Year With A Bang!
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
https://bit.ly/321OUEy
Sponsor Since: December 23rd 2021
Email: feedback@doubletap.online 📧️
YouTube: https://bit.ly/321OUEy
About: Double Tap TV is a weekly tech show on AMI-tv, (also available on CBC Gem in Canada and YouTube). Each week join hosts Steven Scott (@blindguytech) and Marc Aflalo (@marcaflalo) as they help viewers better understand how technology can assist in everyday life. Its tech from an accessible point of view! The show features interviews with some of the biggest names in consumer tech and features up and coming companies and services.
Sponsor: HIMS, Inc.
➜ Order Now! Get The Most Powerful Android Notetaker Available, the BrailleSense 6 From HIMS. It's Simply The Best.
https://hims-inc.com/product/braillesense-6/
Sponsor Since: September 30th 2021
Website: https://hims-inc.com/ 🌐
Shop All Products: https://hims-inc.com/shop-all-products/ 🛒
Phone: (512) 837-2000 📱️
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5R9NjA1nfWo
Sales Email: sales@hims-inc.com 📧️
Support Email: support@hims-inc.com 📧️
About: HIMS, Inc. is a global manufacturer and distributor that has provided braille, magnification and accessible healthcare devices since 1999.
Sponsor: Blind Mice Mega Mall
➜ DannyBoy Portable Smart Phone & Device Stand Save 20% Now $39.99
https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/bmm/shop/Item_Detail?itemid=5156439
Sponsor Since: September 23rd 2021
Website: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/ 🌐
Blind Mice Order Center Phone: (866) 922-8877 📱️
Blind Mice Order Center Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM CST/CDT (GMT-5) Monday through Friday
Mall Directory of Stores: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/bmm/shop/Directory 🛒
Join The Today's Cheese Newsletter: Join the Today's Cheese newsletter to get Members' Only sales & Unadvertised Specials from the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You can save money with these unadvertised specials! Send an email to: TodaysCheese+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
Blind Mice Swap Shop: Sell, Swap, and Buy. The Mice receive calls everyday asking if we buy or sell used or unwanted items. The Mice don't sell used products but to help our members, we created the Blind Mice Swap Shop! The Blind Mice Swap Shop is the place for Sellers, Traders, & Buyers to find each other! Do you ... have something you don't want anymore... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something you just don't use... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something new to sell... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Provide a service that might be helpful to other Blind and Visually Impaired folks... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Have an announcement about an upcoming event beneficial to the Blind & Visually Impaired Community... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Joining the Blind Mice Swap Shop is free and as easy as sending an email to: BlindMiceSwapShop+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
About: Welcome to Blind Mice Mega Mall! The Mall with the Blind In Mind! Blind Mice Mega Mall is designed for use with a screen reader and low vision software for visually impaired shoppers. Each store is an independent business owned / managed by a member of the Blind / Low Vision Community. Please browse & shop the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You will find great items and unique offerings from our merchants. You help the Blind Community every time you make a purchase from any of the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. Every purchase made at Blind Mice Mega Mall gives back to the Blind and Visually Impaired Community. Proceeds from sales fund the MouseHole Scholarship Program, the Cooking In The Dark Show and The Movie Vault. Blind Mice Mega Mall accepts American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, Checks, and Money Orders. Purchase Orders From State Agencies are also welcome.
Sponsor: Carroll Center for the Blind
➜ New Spring Session of Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
https://carroll.org/screen-reader-user-tester-training-program/
Sponsor Since: August 5th 2021
Website: https://carroll.org/ 🌐
Phone: (617) 969-6200 📱️
Fax: (617) 969-6204 ░Shop: https://carroll.org/store/ 🛒
Donate: https://carroll.org/donate ❤
Social: Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | LinkedIn | Instagram
About: The Carroll Center for the Blind is the foremost leader in vision rehabilitation services for individuals confronted by the challenges of vision loss. Our mission is to empower those who are blind or visually impaired to achieve independence and to lead a fulfilling life. Established in 1936, the renowned Carroll Center for the Blind has been serving those with vision impairment for over eight decades; we are known nationally as a premier Vision Rehabilitation Center. Located just outside of Boston on a sprawling campus in Newton, Massachusetts, we proudly serve ALL ages and ALL stages of vision loss. With the ongoing promise of improving the lives of people with vision-related problems, The Carroll Center for the Blind has pioneered many innovative services allowing people who are blind or have low vision to learn the skills to be independent in their homes, in class settings, and in their work places. Our services include vision rehabilitation, vocational and transition programs, assistive technology training, educational support, and recreation opportunities for individuals who are visually impaired of all ages. For over 80 years, the expertise of Carroll Center staff has provided help for thousands of blind and visually impaired persons with diverse opportunities for success and independent living.
Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions
➜ Give the Gift of Equal Access!
https://scribeit.io/
Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ VisionAware Resources: VisionAware Resources Including the Directory of Services
https://visionaware.org/
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/122320211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Coding is Easy and Accessible with Colby the Code & Go Robot Mouse
https://www.aph.org/product/accessible-code-and-go-mouse/
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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.
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, December 16, 2021 - Volume 837 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, December 16, 2021 - Volume 837
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Our Customers Independence And Joy From Our Efforts To Find Unique/Useful Products Motivates Us To Do Better!
New hands free phone pouches; you now have 6 choices from $15 to dis40; Talking Medical Bundle $130 extended through January 31. Lots of new bags for laptops, tablets, ipads, and all sizes of Braille displays, from $35 to $70; Ú styles of leather waist packs, including our end of year $25 bargain 6 pocket 18 inch model; a medium sized pack for daily use; and the colossal pack for 32 cell displays, $25 to $60. New bt single ear over ear headset with boom mic easy controls, and speech; dis40; The only cable you'll need: 10ft, lightning, usb micro, usbc, $20.00; Dog products for grooming; safety, and convience: bowls, lights; compact resting aids, audible harness lights, Ruffware products. Call Barry | (617) 969-7500 📱️ | bscheur@scheur.com 📧️ | bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️ | Kae: (781) 286-1696 📱️ | guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️. Or go to our website:
https://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Audible Launches 100 Audiobooks For Free On Alexa: Here's How To Access: (9.8% of all clicks.)https://indianexpress.com/article/technology/social/audible-launches-100-audiobooks-for-free-on-alexa-heres-how-to-access-7658383/
B.) JAWS Power Tip: Reversing Last Setting: (6.4% of all clicks.)
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/44.html
C.) Apple Still Hasn't Fixed Siri Issue That Nixed Call, Email, and Voicemail Features Used by Low Vision and Blind Users [Updated]: (5.8% of all clicks.)
https://www.macrumors.com/2021/12/06/apple-no-siri-fix-low-vision-features/
D.) Live Text, New In iOS 15 Is Amazing, But It Took Us 45 Years Of Technical Advancements To Get There: (5.6% of all clicks.)
https://accessibility-insights.com/2021/11/06/live-text-new-in-ios-15-is-amazing-but-it-took-us-45-years-of-technical-advancements-to-get-there/
E.) Best Apps For Hearing Loss: (5.3% of all clicks.)
https://www.healthyhearing.com/report/53274-Smartphone-apps-for-hearing-loss
2) Top Tech Tidbits Welcomes Aboard Double Tap TV | No More Sponsorship Packages Currently Available
Please join all of us here at Tidbits in welcoming aboard Double Tap TV, who has so very graciously agreed to support the ongoing distribution of Top Tech Tidbits by becoming a sponsor. If you look forward to Tidbits every week, it is sponsors like Double Tap TV that make it possible. Double Tap TV is a weekly tech show on AMI-tv, (also available on CBC Gem in Canada and YouTube). Each week join hosts Steven Scott (@blindguytech) and Marc Aflalo (@marcaflalo) as they help viewers better understand how technology can assist in everyday life. Its tech from an accessible point of view! The show features interviews with some of the biggest names in consumer tech and features up and coming companies and services:https://bit.ly/321OUEy.
3) Critical Log4J Vulnerability Leaves Much of the Internet at Risk
The Apache Software Foundation has released fixes to contain an actively exploited zero-day vulnerability affecting the widely-used Apache Log4j Java-based logging library that could be weaponized to execute malicious code and allow a complete takeover of vulnerable systems:https://thehackernews.com/2021/12/extremely-critical-log4j-vulnerability.html
4) JAWS Power Tip: Copy Speech History to the Clipboard
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/45.html
5) How to Use Alexa to Get Help in an Emergency
Find out more about the Emergency Contact feature and how to get it set up:https://www.makeuseof.com/get-help-with-alexa-emergency/
6) Guide to Beginning on Twitch as a Blind Streamer
Whether you want to stream yourself playing video games, arts and crafts, or just chatting, compared to YouTube gaming, Twitch is currently the best place for a blind person to begin. Knowing what software to use is critical, but can also be intimidating to learn because of the wide spectrum of inaccessible products in the industry. Fortunately for you, I've been streaming content for a few years now and I want to pass on what I've learned. No matter if you have a gaming PC or just a console, this guide will provide solutions to make your stream more accessible. In this article you'll learn how to use OBS with a screen reader, how to use Stream Elements or Firebot to control your stream, and tips to improve your streaming experience:https://rossminor.com/2021/11/28/the-ultimate-guide-for-becoming-a-blind-twitch-streamer/
7) NVDA 2021.3.1 RC1 Now Available
This version comes with 2 fixes: Braille display auto detection for Humanware & APH displays and Landmark is again abbreviated in braille. If no issues are found, this will be identical to the final NVDA 2021.3.1 release. Full info & download from:https://www.nvaccess.org/post/nvda-2021-3-1rc1/
8) Navigating Your Browser Faster and More Efficiently with NVDA Single Letter Navigation | YouTube - Thee Quinn
Learn the different ways you can use NVDA single letter navigation to navigate your webpage even faster than persons who are sighted:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_oKSsGtIpoo&t=22s
9) Niagara-Made Audio Game Nominated for Accessibility Game Award
A made-in-Niagara video game has been nominated for a Game Award in the category of innovation in accessibility. The Vale: Shadow of the Crown was created by Niagara's Falling Squirrel, an independent game studio. Dave Evans, founder of Falling Squirrel and creative director of the game, said they started making it five years ago:https://www.stcatharinesstandard.ca/local-niagara-falls/news/2021/12/07/niagara-made-audio-game-nominated-for-accessibility-game-award.html
10) Bookshare Reader for Amazon Alexa Beta | Setting Up The Bookshare Skill
Step-by-step instructions for installing the Beta skill on the Alexa app, linking the skill to your Bookshare account and getting audiobooks for Alexa to read:https://www.bookshare.org/cms/help-center/alexa-smart-speaker-beta-early-2021
11) Sight Tech Global 2021 Highlights and YouTube Channel
There were many presentations worth highlighting from Sight Tech Global 2021. Recordings of breakout sessions will be posted soon. Videos of main stage sessions are now available on the Sight Tech Global agenda page at:https://sighttechglobal.com/agenda/
You can subscribe via their Youtube channel at:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwJhe8kfyvmp8PRg9dexrOg
12) Your Feedback Is Important To Us At Google
Google is looking for participant's who use assistive technology to participate in user research. Google says most participants will get a small thank you gift:https://userresearch.google.com/?reserved=0
13) PlayStation and Accessibility
Sony has a new website dedicated to its PlayStation's accessibility features. Some games are also covered:https://www.playstation.com/en-gb/accessibility/
14) Can I Play That? Accessibility Awards 2021 - The Winners
Can I Play That has announced their 2021 accessibility awards winners:https://caniplaythat.com/2021/12/13/can-i-play-that-accessibility-awards-2021-the-winners/
15) Introducing Bookshare Reader (Beta) for Smart Speakers
You can now listen to Bookshare books using Amazon Alexa with Bookshare Reader. Bookshare Reader is currently in beta release and only available for Bookshare Individual Members at this time. Future releases will provide access to students and educators on school organizational accounts:https://blog.bookshare.org/2021/12/bookshare-reader-beta-smart-speakers/
16) For Low-Vision People Like Me, Autonomous Driving Could Change Everything
A thought provoking piece on autonomous driving from a blindness and low vision perspective:https://groundtruthautonomy.com/how-low-vision-people-benefit-from-autonomous-vehicles/
17) Facetime Client App 'Navi' Adds Subtitles And Live Translations Through SharePlay
With Apple releasing macOS 12.1 with SharePlay support, developer Jordi Bruin launched Navi, a universal app that helps people with hearing impairment and other disabilities to easily engage in a FaceTime call using subtitles and live translations:https://9to5mac.com/2021/12/14/navi-facetime-subtitles-live-translations-shareplay/
18) Israeli Company Says Novel AI Device Could Help Prevent Adult Blindness
A Modi'in Illit-based start-up has recently unveiled what they say is the world's first AI-based contactless intraocular pressure (IOP) measuring device that allows individuals with glaucoma to measure their eye pressure anytime and anywhere and communicate the results to their doctor:https://www.jpost.com/business-and-innovation/tech/israeli-company-says-novel-ai-device-could-help-prevent-adult-blindness-688544
19) The Ultimate Guide To Keyboard Shortcuts In Windows 11
Navigating Windows 11 can be a whole lot faster with keyboard commands. This guide provides a great overview:https://www.xda-developers.com/windows-11-keyboard-shortcuts/
20) Twitter Is Rolling Out Automatic Captions For Videos
Twitter receives a much needed accessibility enhancement with automatic captions for videos being rolled out for most languages:https://www.theverge.com/2021/12/14/22834366/twitter-automatic-live-captions-videos
21) Apple Releases iOS 15.2 With Communication Safety In Messages, Macro Photo Control, App Privacy Reports, And More
Apple releases a software update for iPhone and iPad users with significant new features. Plus, Siri's call history and voicemail functionality are finally restored:https://www.theapplepost.com/2021/12/13/apple-releases-ios-15-2-with-communication-safety-in-messages-macro-photo-control-app-privacy-reports-and-more/
22) How To Easily Insert Images, Tables, Charts, And More Into Google Docs
Google Docs has added an "@" menu that makes it easier than ever to add content to your documents:https://www.androidcentral.com/how-easily-insert-images-tables-charts-and-more-google-docs
23) WatchOS 8.3 Release Candidate Expands AssistiveTouch To Older Apple Watch Models
The WatchOS 8.3 update is set to bring AssistiveTouch features to older Apple Watch models, including the 4 and 5:https://www.macrumors.com/2021/12/09/watchos-8-3-assistivetouch-apple-watch/
24) Samsung Bixby Is Available for Windows: What You Need to Know
Google Assistant and Amazon's Alexa are the biggest names in the virtual assistant market, but Samsung's Bixby has proven to be a good contender. Now, it will become more accessible with its release on the Microsoft Store:https://www.makeuseof.com/samsung-bixby-available-for-windows/
25) The 13 Best Windows 11 Tips and Tricks That Everybody Should Know
Windows 11 comes with a ton of changes. A new UI, Android app compatibility, improved resources management, and so much more are all packed into Microsoft's new operating system. However, it is still the same OS underneath, and that's a good thing:https://www.makeuseof.com/windows-11-best-tips-and-tricks/
26) Windows 11 Voice Access Will Let You Control A PC By Talking To It, Available Now In Preview
Microsoft has been including speech recognition software in Windows for years, but historically it's been designed as an accessibility setting that allows you to input text by talking instead of typing. Soon you'll also be able to launch and switch between apps, browse the web, and generally control your computer by voice thanks to a new Voice Access feature coming to Windows 11. A pre-release version of the feature is rolling out now to members of the Windows Insider program on the Windows 11 dev channel:https://liliputing.com/2021/12/windows-11-voice-access-will-let-you-control-a-pc-by-talking-to-it-available-now-in-preview.html
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) First-Of-Its-Kind Box Uses Braille To Make Finding Your Favourite Chocolate Accessible To The Blind Community
The Holiday Braille Box is an accessible box of Purdys chocolates designed specifically for, and with consultation from, the blind and partially sighted community:https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/first-of-its-kind-box-uses-braille-to-make-finding-your-favourite-chocolate-accessible-to-the-blind-community-836477077.html
2) 12 of the Best Job Search Sites for Remote Work
If the pandemic taught us anything about the workforce, it's that working remotely is not the horrible scenario most employers fear. While COVID-19 forced many companies to quickly change their tune on remote work, the reality is that momentum was already starting to swing in that direction, and there is no shortage of companies looking for new team members. The only question is how do you locate these coveted work-from-home roles. Keep reading to find some of the best job search sites for remote work:https://www.maketecheasier.com/best-job-search-sites/
3) Bringing Accessible Tourism to the World
Professor Yaniv Poria's recent master's degree course is giving future travel industry leaders the tools to improve travel and recreational experiences for people with a wide range of disabilities:https://www.jpost.com/jpost-tech/business-and-innovation/bringing-accessible-tourism-to-the-world-688487
4) Streaming Subtitles Should Not Be This Tricky to Read
As a visually impaired cinephile, my nemesis is a white subtitle with no drop shadow, sheared of an outline — the words onscreen blend into the background too easily. There have been countless times when I was watching a film at Angelika Film Center or Lincoln Center and had to give up on reading the dialogue text altogether. No understanding of the plot, just vibes:https://www.vulture.com/article/subtitles-closed-captions-accessibility-streaming.html
5) A 17-Year-Old Created A Free App That Makes Disney+ Films More Accessible For Deaf Children
Subtitles and closed captions make it possible for deaf people to enjoy films and television shows — but what about little kids who can't read yet, or whose reading isn't fast enough to keep up with the captions? How does a deaf child fully appreciate a children's movie if they can't understand what any of the characters are saying and can't read the captions?https://www.upworthy.com/app-deaf-children-disney-movies
6) Smart Cane Offering Mobility for Visually Impaired
Researchers have open-sourced their technology, which will allow developers to build smart canes at home using their own parts:https://www.rtinsights.com/smart-cane-offering-mobility-for-visually-impaired/
7) Art Exhibit For The Blind Allows People To See With Their Hands
A museum in Casselberry is breaking a long-held rule at most museums; NO TOUCHING:https://www.wmfe.org/art-exhibit-for-the-blind-allows-people-to-see-with-their-hands/193548
8) This Conference Puts Accessibility in Gaming Front and Center | Wired
The Game Accessibility Conference brings developers, advocates, and government officials together to imagine and work toward a more inclusive games industry:https://www.wired.com/story/game-accessibility-conference/
9) Legally Blind Canadian Using Electronic Glasses To Develop More Accessible Apps
39-year-old Jaclyn Pope of Oshawa, Ontario wants to make the kinds of apps for others that have been lacking in her own life:https://mobilesyrup.com/2021/12/09/blind-canadian-jaclyn-pope-esight-4-accessibile-apps/
10) Why Cannabis Companies Should Care About Their Online Accessibility
Cannabis companies should understand that selling goods on a website that is not broadly accessible is an invitation to be sued:https://abovethelaw.com/2021/12/why-cannabis-companies-should-care-about-their-online-accessibility/
11) Smart Tech Aims To Improve Transit Accessibility For The Visually Impaired
Transit data firm Moovit and UK startup WeWALK have partnered on technology that will offer transit navigation and scheduling information to visually impaired riders through WeWALK's electronic cane:https://www.smartcitiesdive.com/news/moovit-wawalk-public-transit-accessibility-visually-im/611346/
12) 4 Inclusive Beauty Brands That Are Catering To Those Who Are Differently Abled
The beauty industry isn't a very inclusive space. For the longest time there were no foundations catering to very dark skin or extremely fair skin tones. Imagery for brands was mainly Euro-centric and natural hair texture was not even featured in campaigns. However, some brands are switching things up to cater to those who are differently abled and visually impaired. Let's take a look at some of them:https://www.idiva.com/beauty/tips/disabled-friendly-beauty-brands/18027259
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Blind Android Users 53 | It's time to Eat!
December 11th 2021 | This week, as the festive season is nearing its climax, we demo food ordering apps on Android. We demo Deliveroo and Just Eat, and the UK grocery shopping app Tesco. In our talkback highlights we show how to explore notifications, quick setting and customise on screen and physical keyboards. To listen to the podcast, please visit:https://blindandroidusers.com/category/bauposts/shownotes/
2) Mosen At Large 161
December 1th 2021 Review of the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 carbon, more on mainstream vs blindness tech, and a new book designed to give hope to newly blind people and their families.https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/bdee0ee2/review-of-the-lenovo-thinkpad-x1-carbon-more-on-mainstream-vs-blindness-tech-and-a-new-book-designed-to-give-hope-to-newly-blind-people-and-their-families
3) Hadley Presents Using Workout Equipment at Home
December 12th 2021Working on your health and fitness always makes sense — but sometimes, going to the gym doesn't. Luckily, there's plenty you can do to build your strength and stay in shape at home — so working out doesn't have to mean going out:
https://hadley.edu/workshops/sports-and-exercise-series/using-workout-equipment-at-home
4) Eyes on Success 2151 The Intracortical Visual Prosthesis Project
December 15th 2021The goal of the Intracortical Visual Prosthesis (ICVP) project is to develop a device and system that will compensate for blindness by directly stimulating the visual centers within the brain. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with principal investigators Philip Troyk and Frank Lane about how the system works and their search for research volunteers:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202151.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Accessible Pharmacy Virtual Workshop by Florida Outreach Center For The Blind
December 16th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Come join The Florida Outreach Center For The Blind for our next virtual workshop. This months workshop will be with Accessible Pharmacy. This exciting presentation will be held on Thursday, December 16, 2021 at 1:00 PM ET. In addition a door prize of a $25.00 gift card will be given out to one lucky winner! Below you will find information about our presenters along with the Zoom information. We look forward to having you join us for this informative and innovative event! Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind is a comprehensive, home delivery pharmacy service specializing in the needs of the blind and low vision community. They are the only provider of its kind and the largest blind-owned healthcare company in the United States. We will be joined by one of the co-founders of the company, Andy Burstein. Web: https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/. Phone: (215) 799-9900 📱️. If you want to use the one-touch method, you can use: +13126266799, 5616420005#. If you wish to call in directly please call: +1 312 626 6799. You will then have to enter the following meeting ID number: 561 642 0005. Join with the following link:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5616420005
2) Eyedaptic - Enhancing Vision to Revitalize Life | Free Training Webinars by Vispero
December 16th 2021 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Mike Wood and Brian Schleiger, Eyedaptic Sales Manager, on Thursday, December 16, 2021, for an introduction to the Eyedaptic EYE3 glasses for AMD and other retinal disorders. The EYE3 glasses are fully self-contained Augmented Reality glasses that simulate natural vision and optimizes the user's functional peripheral vision. These state-of-the-art glasses can revitalize a user's quality of life. They are customized and adapt to users' needs as their vision changes. Key Features: Autonomous user interface with multiple viewing modes including auto-zoom and automatic image stabilization. Contrast modes plus Britext edge enhancement. Hot swappable batteries for extended run time. Magnification up to 10x. Patented Hybrid See Through system. Light weight and more comfortable than the EYE2. Register for this webinar to learn more about the Eyedaptic EYE3:https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_vP1Q_nwLRBC9P6qq1xwGbA
3) BlindShell Cell Phone Demonstration
December 18th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | On Saturday, December 18, 2021 at 10:00 AM Eastern the Computer Science & Technology Division of the NFB of SC will have representatives from Matapo to give us a demonstration on the BlindShell cell phone! This presentation will take place on the Federation Zoom platform. | Meeting ID: 803 254 3777 | Passcode: 124578 | One tap mobile: +19292056099,,8032543777# US (New York). Join at:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8032543777?pwd=QTVQd2RzN3l6QnNmZ0FmSnp6NG8vQT09
4) Shopping With JAWS and Windows | Access Ingenuity
December 22nd 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | It's the holidays! You might still be looking for a last-minute gift. Perhaps you just want to know how a competent screen reader user would search for specific items. Join Ian Ramos and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity as they use many of the web browsing tips previously introduced to go shopping on a PC using JAWS. | Meeting ID: 832 9367 4055 | Passcode: 291237 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83293674055#,,,,*291237# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose):https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83293674055?pwd=Z2ZkNlpKK2liTWpDWmlOd2lDMkFQQT09
5) ATHEN (Access Technology Higher Education Network) 1st Annual "Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM) Accessibility: Starting with Math"
February 10th 2022 and February 11th 2022 | This virtual conference will take place on February 10th and 11th 2022. We are striving to create a diverse conference where experts can share their best practices, solutions, techniques, etc. for accessing and creating accessible STEM content in higher education. Join us! | Call for Proposal (Google Form) (Open now!) | Brush up by taking a sneak peek into the complexities in creating accessible STEM content in the YouTube video "Factors Involved in Making STEM Content Accessible" (10-minutes). | Conference Details, Dates, Registration, Cost:.https://athenpro.org/content/athen-virtual-conference
6) Axe-Con 2022
March 15th 2022 through March 17th 2022 | Axe-con is an open and inclusive digital accessibility conference that welcomes developers, designers, business users, and accessibility professionals of all experience levels to a new kind of accessibility conference focused on building, testing, and maintaining accessible digital experiences. Register for Axe-Con 2022, it's free! Join us for this three-day, multi-track conference to help further your digital accessibility efforts. Hear from the top experts in the field, for your area of interest with none of the noise. Learn more about why you should attend or get started by saving your seat by registering now:https://www.deque.com/axe-con/
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Humanware Braillenote Touch Plus 32 + Accessories
Listing Date: 11/25/2021 | Price: $2750.00 USD | Condition: Gently used. | Description: Like new. This Humanware Braillenote Touch Plus 32 just hasn't been used much, so selling for half price to a good home. It has it's accessories and is probably the best known notetaker / computer for the blind that can also be used as a 32 cell Braille display. | Contact: Joe via Email JS5lio021@gmail.com 📧️ or (425) 298-6834 📱️. |2) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: A. T. Guys
➜ Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
https://bit.ly/321OUEy
Sponsor Since: December 23rd 2021
Email: feedback@doubletap.online 📧️
YouTube: https://bit.ly/321OUEy
About: Double Tap TV is a weekly tech show on AMI-tv, (also available on CBC Gem in Canada and YouTube). Each week join hosts Steven Scott (@blindguytech) and Marc Aflalo (@marcaflalo) as they help viewers better understand how technology can assist in everyday life. Its tech from an accessible point of view! The show features interviews with some of the biggest names in consumer tech and features up and coming companies and services.
Sponsor: HIMS, Inc.
➜ Order Now! Get The Most Powerful Android Notetaker Available, the BrailleSense 6 From HIMS. It's Simply The Best.
https://hims-inc.com/product/braillesense-6/
Sponsor Since: September 30th 2021
Website: https://hims-inc.com/ 🌐
Shop All Products: https://hims-inc.com/shop-all-products/ 🛒
Phone: (512) 837-2000 📱️
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5R9NjA1nfWo
Sales Email: sales@hims-inc.com 📧️
Support Email: support@hims-inc.com 📧️
About: HIMS, Inc. is a global manufacturer and distributor that has provided braille, magnification and accessible healthcare devices since 1999.
Sponsor: Blind Mice Mega Mall
➜ DannyBoy Portable Smart Phone & Device Stand Save 20% Now $39.99
https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/bmm/shop/Item_Detail?itemid=5156439
Sponsor Since: September 23rd 2021
Website: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/ 🌐
Blind Mice Order Center Phone: (866) 922-8877 📱️
Blind Mice Order Center Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM CST/CDT (GMT-5) Monday through Friday
Mall Directory of Stores: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/bmm/shop/Directory 🛒
Join The Today's Cheese Newsletter: Join the Today's Cheese newsletter to get Members' Only sales & Unadvertised Specials from the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You can save money with these unadvertised specials! Send an email to: TodaysCheese+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
Blind Mice Swap Shop: Sell, Swap, and Buy. The Mice receive calls everyday asking if we buy or sell used or unwanted items. The Mice don't sell used products but to help our members, we created the Blind Mice Swap Shop! The Blind Mice Swap Shop is the place for Sellers, Traders, & Buyers to find each other! Do you ... have something you don't want anymore... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something you just don't use... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something new to sell... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Provide a service that might be helpful to other Blind and Visually Impaired folks... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Have an announcement about an upcoming event beneficial to the Blind & Visually Impaired Community... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Joining the Blind Mice Swap Shop is free and as easy as sending an email to: BlindMiceSwapShop+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
About: Welcome to Blind Mice Mega Mall! The Mall with the Blind In Mind! Blind Mice Mega Mall is designed for use with a screen reader and low vision software for visually impaired shoppers. Each store is an independent business owned / managed by a member of the Blind / Low Vision Community. Please browse & shop the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You will find great items and unique offerings from our merchants. You help the Blind Community every time you make a purchase from any of the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. Every purchase made at Blind Mice Mega Mall gives back to the Blind and Visually Impaired Community. Proceeds from sales fund the MouseHole Scholarship Program, the Cooking In The Dark Show and The Movie Vault. Blind Mice Mega Mall accepts American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, Checks, and Money Orders. Purchase Orders From State Agencies are also welcome.
Sponsor: Carroll Center for the Blind
➜ New Spring Session of Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
https://carroll.org/screen-reader-user-tester-training-program/
Sponsor Since: August 5th 2021
Website: https://carroll.org/ 🌐
Phone: (617) 969-6200 📱️
Fax: (617) 969-6204 ░Shop: https://carroll.org/store/ 🛒
Donate: https://carroll.org/donate ❤
Social: Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | LinkedIn | Instagram
About: The Carroll Center for the Blind is the foremost leader in vision rehabilitation services for individuals confronted by the challenges of vision loss. Our mission is to empower those who are blind or visually impaired to achieve independence and to lead a fulfilling life. Established in 1936, the renowned Carroll Center for the Blind has been serving those with vision impairment for over eight decades; we are known nationally as a premier Vision Rehabilitation Center. Located just outside of Boston on a sprawling campus in Newton, Massachusetts, we proudly serve ALL ages and ALL stages of vision loss. With the ongoing promise of improving the lives of people with vision-related problems, The Carroll Center for the Blind has pioneered many innovative services allowing people who are blind or have low vision to learn the skills to be independent in their homes, in class settings, and in their work places. Our services include vision rehabilitation, vocational and transition programs, assistive technology training, educational support, and recreation opportunities for individuals who are visually impaired of all ages. For over 80 years, the expertise of Carroll Center staff has provided help for thousands of blind and visually impaired persons with diverse opportunities for success and independent living.
Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions
➜ Give the Gift of Equal Access!
https://scribeit.io/
Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ VisionAware Resources: VisionAware Resources Including the Information and Referral Line?
https://visionaware.org/
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/121620211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Coding is Easy and Accessible with Colby the Code & Go Robot Mouse
https://www.aph.org/product/accessible-code-and-go-mouse/
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ GuideLights And Gadgets
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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!
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, December 9, 2021 - Volume 836 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, December 9, 2021 - Volume 836
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Last Chance: A. T. Guys Holiday Tech Deals; Speakers, BlindShell 2, Versa Slate, Aftershokx, and more!
It's not too late to order those holiday gadgets for you or those you love. But this is your last chance for free shipping with an order of $79 or more. Use coupon "tidbits" to get the deal through December 13th 2021. We've got the BlindShell 2, an upgraded simple phone with tactile buttons, a headphone jack & louder speaker. Powerful, yet simple to use with Email, Internet radio, Be My Eyes, & more. Get your fingers on the Versa Slate or Versa Mini, paperless, braille slates great for quick notes or learning braille. Shop our sale on Aftershokz open ear headsets, including Aeropex and OpenMove, a savings of up to $30, or check out our new one-ear headset, the Storm. Bring the party with our loudest Bluetooth speaker, the Stormbox Pro. Save 10 percent on WayAround stickers, buttons, magnets, & clips for labeling just about anything. Check out our travel charger, wireless earbuds, USBC hub, or our folding Bluetooth keyboard. Visit atguys.com for all of the latest gadgets, and don't forget that coupon:
https://www.atguys.com/tidbits
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Live Text, New In iOS 15 Is Amazing, But It Took Us 45 Years Of Technical Advancements To Get There: (10.3% of all clicks.)https://accessibility-insights.com/2021/11/06/live-text-new-in-ios-15-is-amazing-but-it-took-us-45-years-of-technical-advancements-to-get-there/
B.) Rollova 2.0 Is An Easy To Use Digital Ruler That Makes Measurements A Breeze: (10.0% of all clicks.)
https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2021/11/rollova-2-0-is-an-easy-to-use-digital-ruler-that-makes-measurements-a-breeze.html
C.) How to Get Google Assistant to Read Web Pages to You: (4.9% of all clicks.)
https://www.androidcentral.com/how-get-google-assistant-read-web-pages-you
D.) AppleVis Unlimited: What's New and Noteworthy for November 2021: (4.6% of all clicks.)
https://www.applevis.com/newsletter/applevis-unlimited-whats-new-noteworthy-november-2021
E.) Use A Screen Reader With Office Apps: (4.3% of all clicks.)
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/use-a-screen-reader-with-office-apps-4aba5a56-f80c-4a6b-a584-d0f415471617
2) One Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Package Currently Available
Please consider helping us to support the ongoing distribution of this publication. Join 11 other AT Industry Leaders in giving Tidbits readers the gift of free weekly technology information while reaching over 6,900 Assistive Technology professionals, educators and enthusiasts each week. All for just $25 a week! There's no value quite like it in the industry. If you would like to join us in supporting Tidbits while enjoying some really incredible marketing benefits, please reach out to our publisher today at: publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️. Or learn more at:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
3) JAWS Power Tip: Reversing Last Setting
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/44.html
4) Pin and Arrange Apps on the Start Menu in Windows 11 with JAWS | dSurf
In this lesson you learn how to add or remove pinned buttons for apps in the Windows 11 Start menu. Then arrange them in the order you want with the keyboard:https://dsurf.net/windows-11-training/pin-and-arrange-apps-on-the-start-menu/
5) TPGi Announces The Launch of JAWS Connect
JAWS Connect is a first-of-its-kind solution that delivers assistive technology user feedback directly to the enterprise organizations seeking to deliver accessible digital experiences. JAWS Connect was made possible through collaboration between Vispero's TPGi and Freedom Scientific (the maker of JAWS for Windows) brands. JAWS Connect is a product that finally bridges the gap between the largest community of assistive technology users in the world and the organizations that are building websites and applications, placing usability at the center of digital accessibility:https://www.tpgi.com/jaws-connect-launch-press-release/?utm_medium=email&_hsmi=190329502&utm_content=190329502&utm_source=hs_email
6) Microsoft Surface Adaptive Kit | Designed With Accessibility In Mind And In Collaboration With The Disability Community
In late September Microsoft announced the Surface Adaptive Kit was coming soon. As of December 1st 2021 the kit has officially launched and they want to take a moment to celebrate the people, community, and stories that helped them create the labels, indicators, and openers that now empower anyone to make their Surface device a little easier to use:https://blogs.microsoft.com/accessibility/surface-adaptive-kit/
7) Seasons Readings from Bookshare
Bookshare has released its holiday reading list in all accessible formats:https://blog.bookshare.org/2021/12/seasons-readings-from-bookshare/
8) 95.0 Firefox Release
There have been accessibility improvements in the latest version of Firefox for Jaws and Zoomtext users. "After starting Firefox, users of the JAWS screen reader and ZoomText magnifier will no longer need to switch applications in order to access Firefox:"https://www.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/95.0/releasenotes/
9) NVDA 2021.3 Released
This release introduces support for the new HID Braille specification. There are updates to eSpeak-NG and LibLouis, including new Russian and Tshivenda tables. Error sounds can be enabled in stable builds of NVDA via a new advanced settings option. Say all in Word now scrolls the view to keep the current position visible. There are lots of improvements when using Office with UIA. One UIA fix is that Outlook now ignores more types of layout tables in messages.https://www.nvaccess.org/post/nvda-2021-3/
10) Explainer for W3C Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 3.0
This explainer highlights the changes coming in the web content accessibility guidelines. "W3C Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 3.0 is a successor to Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.2 [ WCAG22] and previous versions but does not deprecate WCAG 2.X. It will also incorporate content from and partially extend User Agent Accessibility Guidelines 2.0 [ UAAG20] and Authoring Tool Accessibility Guidelines 2.0 [ ATAG20."https://www.w3.org/TR/2021/DNOTE-wcag-3.0-explainer-20211207/
11) Aira Introduces Priority Connect, Call Handling to Support Explorers During Peak Demand
Aira may limit Guest calls and calls for Aira-sponsored programs during periods of peak demand moving forward:https://aira.io/aira-introduces-priority-connect/
12) Best Apps For Hearing Loss
These Apple and Android Apps come highly recommended for the deaf and hard of hearing community:https://www.healthyhearing.com/report/53274-Smartphone-apps-for-hearing-loss
13) Audible Launches 100 Audiobooks For Free On Alexa: Here's How To Access
Audible, the audiobook giant, releases 100 free audiobooks that can be accessed on your Amazon smart speaker and there's more to come:https://indianexpress.com/article/technology/social/audible-launches-100-audiobooks-for-free-on-alexa-heres-how-to-access-7658383/
14) Apple Still Hasn't Fixed Siri Issue That Nixed Call, Email, and Voicemail Features Used by Low Vision and Blind Users [Updated]
There some good news on the horizon with Apple confirming a fix for these Siri issues is coming in the IOS 15.2 update:https://www.macrumors.com/2021/12/06/apple-no-siri-fix-low-vision-features/
15) Microsoft Releases Free Gaming Accessibility Course
This five module course from Microsoft is aimed at teaching new and existing developers the fundamentals of creating accessible games:https://www.nme.com/news/gaming-news/microsoft-releases-free-gaming-accessibility-course-3110774
16) Amazon's Alexa Together Launches Today Offering More Elder Care Features
Amazon officially releases Alexa Together, an enhanced subscription based service aimed at helping to support loved ones to live independently:https://www.theverge.com/2021/12/7/22822026/amazon-alexa-together-elder-care-price-features-release-date
17) One Of Chrome's Most Useful Accessibility Features Is Now Available For More Users
Automatic image captioning is rolling out in ten new languages:https://www.androidpolice.com/one-of-chromes-most-useful-accessibility-features-is-now-available-for-more-users/
18) LibreOffice 7.3 Beta1 Available for Testing
The LibreOffice Quality Assurance ( QA ) Team is happy to announce LibreOffice 7.3 Beta1 is available for testing:https://qa.blog.documentfoundation.org/2021/12/01/libreoffice-7-3-beta1-is-available-for-testing/
19) Cast Your Votes Now for the AppleVis Golden Apples of 2021
First launched in 2012, the AppleVis Golden Apples is an opportunity for blind and low vision users of Apple products to recognize and acknowledge the hard work and dedication which developers have put into making and maintaining great and accessible applications during the given year:https://www.applevis.com/newsletter/cast-your-votes-now-applevis-golden-apples-2021
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Why Hawkeye Has Hearing Aids in His MCU Show
This article highlights some of the physical damage, including hearing loss, experienced by service women and men:https://screenrant.com/hawkeye-deaf-hearing-aid-marvel-show-reason/
2) Gaming Is Becoming Accessible, But We Need to Keep Asking for More
This Refinery29 article highlights some of the improvements in gaming accessibility and continues asking for more since gaming is a good outlet for persons with disabilities and illness:https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/2021/12/10711964/gamers-with-disabilities-accessible-video-games?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=twitter_share
3) What is it like to have CVI? | YouTube
This video from Perkins demonstrates what it is like to experience CVI (cortical/cerebral visual impairment), the fastest growing form of blindness - affecting more than 100,000 people in the US alone:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oY9JOEByuD0
4) Israel's OrCam Wins CES 2022 Innovation Award for 3rd Consecutive Year
OrCam Technologies, the Jerusalem-based firm known for its AI-driven vision assistance tech, has nabbed its third consecutive win at the annual CES 2022 Innovation Awards:https://nocamels.com/2021/12/israel-orcam-ces-2022-innovation-award/
5) Support the Access Technology Affordability Act of 2021
The Access Technology Affordability Act (ATAA) of 2021 is a bill that makes access technology more affordable to Americans who are blind and visually impaired. It creates a $2,000 refundable tax credit to eligible persons for the purchase of access technology over a three-year period:https://blog.freedomscientific.com/support-the-access-technology-affordability-act-of-2021/
6) FCC Honors Apple With An Award For Ios 14 Accessibility Features
Apple's range of accessibility features in iOS 14, including social distancing, sign language, and sound recognition, have received an FCC Award:https://appleinsider.com/articles/21/12/02/fcc-honors-apple-with-an-award-for-ios-14-accessibility-features
7) This Company Tapped AI for Its Website-and Landed in Court | Wired
Under pressure to make their sites accessible to visually impaired users, firms turn to software. But advocates say the tech isn't always up to the task:https://www.wired.com/story/company-tapped-ai-website-landed-court/
8) A New 'Sight-Restoring' Bionic Eye Took One Step Closer to Human Trials
We have news of a new sight-restoring technology in the works that aims to engineer a bionic eye good enough for human trials. The invention is called the Phoenix99 Bionic Eye and it is an implantable system, designed to restore a form of vision to patients living with severe vision impairment and blindness caused by degenerative diseases:https://interestingengineering.com/sight-restoring-bionic-eye-one-step-closer-to-human-trials
9) GoodMaps is Changing the Way People Navigate Retail Stores
ASDA has partnered with GoodMaps to help solve for core navigation challenges that shoppers face each day in their stores. With the GoodMaps indoor mapping and navigation technology, any shopper can now enter the store and use the GoodMaps Explore app to help them quickly find products and services they are looking for:https://goodmaps.com/news/good-maps-is-changing-the-way-people-navigate-retail-stores
10) Moovit And Wewalk Partner To Improve Transit Navigation For The Blind And Partially Sighted
Moovit and WeWALK are joining forces to make public transit more accessible around the globe. The two companies are working together to provide WeWALK customers with the technology needed to travel safely and independently; ultimately allowing access to additional opportunities for employment, education, social activities and more:https://www.masstransitmag.com/technology/article/21248474/moovit-and-wewalk-partner-to-improve-transit-navigation-for-blind-and-partially-sighted
11) New Foundation for Blind Children Launches on International Day of People with Disabilities
The TouchPad Pro Foundation forms to spread braille literacy and touchable art worldwide:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-foundation-for-blind-children-launches-on-international-day-of-people-with-disabilities-301436927.html
12) Low-Vision Apps, Devices, and Virtual Assistants Expand the View for the Visually Impaired
The number and range of resources available to people with visual challenges has exploded in recent years:https://www.everydayhealth.com/vision/low-vision-apps-devices-virtual-assistants-expand-the-view-for-the-visually-impaired/
13) This Australian Bionic Eye Implant Could Be the Future of Combatting Blindness
Researchers at the University of Sydney and at the University of New South Wales have developed a bionic eye which has proved sustainable for long-term use, meaning it could be only a matter of time before we start seeing it used by humans:https://www.gizmodo.com.au/2021/12/australian-bionic-eye-implant/
14) Give the Gift of Sight with Vision Buddy The World's First TV Focused Device for the Visually Impaired
If there's someone in the family dealing with an eye condition that causes vision loss then consider something different this holiday season. Vision Buddy is a Silicon Valley startup that has trailblazed the field of assistive technology for the Visually Impaired:https://www.einnews.com/pr_news/557416500/give-the-gift-of-sight-vision-buddy-the-world-s-first-tv-focused-device-for-the-visually-impaired
15) RNIB And Metro Create Braille Newspaper Cover Highlighting Need For Accessibility
The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) and Metro newspaper have partnered to create the first braille cover for a UK nationally distributed newspaper:https://www.campaignlive.co.uk/article/rnib-metro-create-braille-newspaper-cover-highlighting-need-accessibility/1734897
16) Asda Trials UK-First Indoor Map Service For Blind & Visually Impaired Shoppers
The app can pinpoint the user's location to within a meter of accuracy and then communicate directions to an object or area via audio, enlarged visual, and touch commands:https://www.retailgazette.co.uk/blog/2021/12/asda-trials-uk-first-indoor-map-service-for-the-blind-visually-impaired-shoppers/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther 39: Beach Vacations and the Return of White Sharks to Atlantic Canada
November 28th 2021 | Episode 38 of Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther explored Great Lakes monster myths. On episode 39 we offer a more sobering dive into the Atlantic Ocean and the return of Great White Sharks to the region. Ms. Lilly has interesting facts to share about white sharks and seals, and Dr. Chris Harvey Clark describes his recent underwater encounter with a white shark in Halifax harbor. On Tips and Tech we demonstrate a water-resistant beeping compass designed and built for use by blind and low vision people. Lawrence's Reflections focus on managing risk when adventuring on the ocean blind. Indeed, lots to think about when planning your next outdoor adventure in Atlantic Canada. To listen to the podcast, please visit:https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/episode-39-beach-vacations-and-the-return-of-white/id1530444764?i=1000543296614
2) Hadley Presents Tips for Living with Vision Loss and Dementia
December 3rd 2021We're joined by Teepa Snow, occupational therapist and founder of Positive Approach to Care, to learn more about the challenges of having both vision loss and dementia. Teepa addresses common misconceptions about dementia and shares practical tips for supporting someone with both conditions:
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/tips-living-vision-loss-and-dementia?utm_source=Learners&utm_campaign=34e9941632-hadleypresents-ep45-sf_12-03-2021&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_d1babd3418-34e9941632-52499638&mc_cid=34e9941632&mc_eid=8997daa19d
3) Blind Android Users 52 | The Power of Screen Recorders
December 4th 2021 | This week we talk all about recording your screen. We demo AZ screen recorder, the default pixel screen recorder and SignitiveSoft screen recorder. In talkback highlights, we show you how to find your home screen settings and explore them. To listen to the podcast, please visit:https://blindandroidusers.com/category/bauposts/shownotes/
4) Mosen At Large 160
December 4th 2021 What are your top 10 holiday songs of all time, your Chromebook has TalkBack built in, and do you need a dedicated blindness device when a smartphone app does the same thing?https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/0544efcf/what-are-your-top-10-holiday-songs-of-all-time-your-chromebook-has-talkback-built-in-and-do-you-need-a-dedicated-blindness-device-when-a-smartphone-app-does-the-same-thing-
5) Eyes on Success 2150 Voxmate App
December 8th 2021The number and complexity of gestures required to operate today's smart phones and tablets can make operating such devices a daunting task for those who are less technically savvy. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Gleb Zevkov and Katja Danilova, founders and developers of the Voxmate app for Android that offers an innovative solution to using these devices:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202150.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Setting the Table for Accessibility: Creating Inclusive Experiences for QSR / Restaurant Customers | TPGi
December 9th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMThttps://www.tpgi.com/webinar-december-9-at-12pm-et-creating-inclusive-experiences-for-qsr-restaurant-customers/
2) Using Braille Commands with VoiceOver: "Apple"-ly Your Braille Skills to the Mantis and Chameleon | APH
December 9th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | It's beginning to look a lot like the end of the semester, so come join us for a refresher on using your braille display with VoiceOver. Our primary focus will be the Chameleon 20 braille display from APH but we'll also cover some tips relevant to the Mantis Q40 and all of our Perkins keyboard braille tips will be relevant for other braille displays. Check it out and by the end you will be zipping around your Apple device with braille at your fingertips! Register Here for Using Braille Commands with VoiceOver: "Apple"-ly Your Braille Skills to the Mantis and Chameleon:https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_d-i9rgoOSHOsaYpFswdsrQ
3) Setting the Table for Accessibility: Creating Inclusive Experiences for QSR / Restaurant Customers | TPGi
December 9th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | An inclusive ordering process and restaurant environment are critical parts of designing a complete and inclusive customer dining experience. Consider incorporating accessibility into your dining experiences, from your website and mobile application to your in-person kiosk ordering experience to your on-site menu. Each connection builds upon the next when we are discussing your customers' dining experience. Join Laura Boniello-Miller and Matt Ater for this exciting webinar and learn the essential aspects of creating an inclusive QSR restaurant experience and making your customers with disabilities feel welcome at your table:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-december-9-at-12pm-et-creating-inclusive-experiences-for-qsr-restaurant-customers/
4) Five Best New Apps To Debut in 2021 | Technology User Group (TUG)
December 11th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | On Saturday, December 11th 2021 the Technology User Group will showcase the five best new apps to debut in 2021, as well as look forward into 2022 to highlight upcoming trends and the tech that will be disappearing. Have you discovered a smart phone app that you enjoy? Feel free to share information about the app with all of us. You do not have to RSVP for this event. The presentation will begin at 10 AM and last about 60 minutes. We look forward to meeting with you and hope that you will join us for other exciting events we have planned for 2022 and beyond. This presentation will be virtual and may be joined by calling:(319) 527-4994 📱️
5) Structuring Accessible Forms | TPGi
December 14th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMThttps://www.tpgi.com/webinar-december-14-at-12pm-et-structuring-accessible-forms/
6) ADA Audio Conference Webinar Series | Accessible Technology on Smartphones & Tablets for Users that are Blind and Low Vision
December 14th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | The Great Lakes ADA Center in collaboration with the ADA National Network invites you to register for the upcoming ADA Audio Conference Webinar titled, "Accessible Technology on Smartphones & Tablets for users that are Blind and Low Vision", featuring Michael McCulloch, President, iBug, Sandhya Rao, Vice President of Training and Special Event, iBug, and Harshid Trivedi, Android Insight Facilitator, iBUG. Join us for the first of two sessions highlighting accessible technology on smartphones and tablets for persons with disabilities. In this session our speakers will highlight mobile apps used by persons who are blind or have low vision. The session will include apps used for way finding, social media and more. The session will also explore built-in accessibility features of iOS and Android operating platforms. There will be time following the presentation for questions. Time: 2-3:30 PM ET (calculate the start time based on the time zone you will be connecting from). Format: Zoom Webinar Platform (closed captioning will be provided via Zoom and Stream Text link option). Cost: No Charge. Registration Required: Registration for this session can be found on the schedule page at http://www.ada-audio.org. If you do not have an account with our system you will be required to establish one before registering. Registration deadline: Monday, December 13, 2021. CEUs: Certificate of Attendance, ACTCP. Questions should be directed to:webinars@adaconferences.org 📧️
7) Structuring Accessible Forms | TPGi
December 14th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Creating accessible forms is the science of constructing form fields that provide the correct name, role, and state through the data entry experience. In this webinar, we examine how to: Create and label form fields of different types. Group related form fields, like radio buttons. Mark form fields as required. Handle input errors. Verify data integrity. Through code examples and testing with a screen reader, you'll learn how to create form fields that work for all your users. Register today:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-december-14-at-12pm-et-structuring-accessible-forms/
8) JAWS: Maximizing the Experience for You and Your Students Part 2 | Access Ingenuity
December 15th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Although the JAWS screen reader is a powerful program that provides many features and support for many applications, some individuals do not like JAWS. Unfortunately, a lot of the time, this is from not knowing some of the available tools and features and not having JAWS or Windows configured to utilize JAWS to the fullest. Join Ian Ramos, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity as they explain some ideal settings and ways to access JAWS features to improve your experience. Although this is a Part 2, you can still benefit even if you did not attend the previous session. We will quickly summarize the main points in Part 1. | Meeting ID: 839 0370 2793 | Passcode: 356314 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83903702793#,,,,*356314# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join the Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83903702793?pwd=QXZuNjdvelo4aVpMVnE5NUcxYnJ1dz09
9) Eyedaptic - Enhancing Vision to Revitalize Life | Free Training Webinars by Vispero
December 16th 2021 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Mike Wood and Brian Schleiger, Eyedaptic Sales Manager, on Thursday, December 16, 2021, for an introduction to the Eyedaptic EYE3 glasses for AMD and other retinal disorders. The EYE3 glasses are fully self-contained Augmented Reality glasses that simulate natural vision and optimizes the user's functional peripheral vision. These state-of-the-art glasses can revitalize a user's quality of life. They are customized and adapt to users' needs as their vision changes. Key Features: Autonomous user interface with multiple viewing modes including auto-zoom and automatic image stabilization. Contrast modes plus Britext edge enhancement. Hot swappable batteries for extended run time. Magnification up to 10x. Patented Hybrid See Through system. Light weight and more comfortable than the EYE2. Register for this webinar to learn more about the Eyedaptic EYE3:https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_vP1Q_nwLRBC9P6qq1xwGbA
10) BlindShell Cell Phone Demonstration
December 18th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | On Saturday, December 18, 2021 at 10:00 AM Eastern the Computer Science & Technology Division of the NFB of SC will have representatives from Matapo to give us a demonstration on the BlindShell cell phone! This presentation will take place on the Federation Zoom platform. | Meeting ID: 803 254 3777 | Passcode: 124578 | One tap mobile: +19292056099,,8032543777# US (New York). Join at:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8032543777?pwd=QTVQd2RzN3l6QnNmZ0FmSnp6NG8vQT09
11) Shopping With JAWS and Windows | Access Ingenuity
December 22nd 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | It's the holidays! You might still be looking for a last-minute gift. Perhaps you just want to know how a competent screen reader user would search for specific items. Join Ian Ramos and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity as they use many of the web browsing tips previously introduced to go shopping on a PC using JAWS. | Meeting ID: 832 9367 4055 | Passcode: 291237 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83293674055#,,,,*291237# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose):https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83293674055?pwd=Z2ZkNlpKK2liTWpDWmlOd2lDMkFQQT09
12) ATHEN (Access Technology Higher Education Network) 1st Annual "Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM) Accessibility: Starting with Math"
February 10th 2022 and February 11th 2022 | This virtual conference will take place on February 10th and 11th 2022. We are striving to create a diverse conference where experts can share their best practices, solutions, techniques, etc. for accessing and creating accessible STEM content in higher education. Join us! | Call for Proposal (Google Form) (Open now!) | Brush up by taking a sneak peek into the complexities in creating accessible STEM content in the YouTube video "Factors Involved in Making STEM Content Accessible" (10-minutes). | Conference Details, Dates, Registration, Cost:.https://athenpro.org/content/athen-virtual-conference
13) Axe-Con 2022
March 15th 2022 through March 17th 2022 | Axe-con is an open and inclusive digital accessibility conference that welcomes developers, designers, business users, and accessibility professionals of all experience levels to a new kind of accessibility conference focused on building, testing, and maintaining accessible digital experiences. Register for Axe-Con 2022, it's free! Join us for this three-day, multi-track conference to help further your digital accessibility efforts. Hear from the top experts in the field, for your area of interest with none of the noise. Learn more about why you should attend or get started by saving your seat by registering now:https://www.deque.com/axe-con/
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Humanware Braillenote Touch Plus 32 + Accessories
Listing Date: 11/25/2021 | Price: $2750.00 USD | Condition: Gently used. | Description: Like new. This Humanware Braillenote Touch Plus 32 just hasn't been used much, so selling for half price to a good home. It has it's accessories and is probably the best known notetaker / computer for the blind that can also be used as a 32 cell Braille display. | Contact: Joe via Email JS5lio021@gmail.com 📧️ or (425) 298-6834 📱️. |2) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: HIMS, Inc.
➜ Order Now! Get The Most Powerful Android Notetaker Available, the BrailleSense 6 From HIMS. It's Simply The Best.
https://hims-inc.com/product/braillesense-6/
Sponsor Since: September 30th 2021
Website: https://hims-inc.com/ 🌐
Shop All Products: https://hims-inc.com/shop-all-products/ 🛒
Phone: (512) 837-2000 📱️
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5R9NjA1nfWo
Sales Email: sales@hims-inc.com 📧️
Support Email: support@hims-inc.com 📧️
About: HIMS, Inc. is a global manufacturer and distributor that has provided braille, magnification and accessible healthcare devices since 1999.
Sponsor: Blind Mice Mega Mall
➜ DannyBoy Portable Smart Phone & Device Stand Save 20% Now $39.99
https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/bmm/shop/Item_Detail?itemid=5156439
Sponsor Since: September 23rd 2021
Website: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/ 🌐
Blind Mice Order Center Phone: (866) 922-8877 📱️
Blind Mice Order Center Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM CST/CDT (GMT-5) Monday through Friday
Mall Directory of Stores: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/bmm/shop/Directory 🛒
Join The Today's Cheese Newsletter: Join the Today's Cheese newsletter to get Members' Only sales & Unadvertised Specials from the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You can save money with these unadvertised specials! Send an email to: TodaysCheese+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
Blind Mice Swap Shop: Sell, Swap, and Buy. The Mice receive calls everyday asking if we buy or sell used or unwanted items. The Mice don't sell used products but to help our members, we created the Blind Mice Swap Shop! The Blind Mice Swap Shop is the place for Sellers, Traders, & Buyers to find each other! Do you ... have something you don't want anymore... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something you just don't use... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something new to sell... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Provide a service that might be helpful to other Blind and Visually Impaired folks... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Have an announcement about an upcoming event beneficial to the Blind & Visually Impaired Community... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Joining the Blind Mice Swap Shop is free and as easy as sending an email to: BlindMiceSwapShop+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
About: Welcome to Blind Mice Mega Mall! The Mall with the Blind In Mind! Blind Mice Mega Mall is designed for use with a screen reader and low vision software for visually impaired shoppers. Each store is an independent business owned / managed by a member of the Blind / Low Vision Community. Please browse & shop the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You will find great items and unique offerings from our merchants. You help the Blind Community every time you make a purchase from any of the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. Every purchase made at Blind Mice Mega Mall gives back to the Blind and Visually Impaired Community. Proceeds from sales fund the MouseHole Scholarship Program, the Cooking In The Dark Show and The Movie Vault. Blind Mice Mega Mall accepts American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, Checks, and Money Orders. Purchase Orders From State Agencies are also welcome.
Sponsor: Carroll Center for the Blind
➜ Don't Miss the Virtual Technology Fair for People Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired
https://bit.ly/3vBaUk2
Sponsor Since: August 5th 2021
Website: https://carroll.org/ 🌐
Phone: (617) 969-6200 📱️
Fax: (617) 969-6204 ░Shop: https://carroll.org/store/ 🛒
Donate: https://carroll.org/donate ❤
Social: Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | LinkedIn | Instagram
About: The Carroll Center for the Blind is the foremost leader in vision rehabilitation services for individuals confronted by the challenges of vision loss. Our mission is to empower those who are blind or visually impaired to achieve independence and to lead a fulfilling life. Established in 1936, the renowned Carroll Center for the Blind has been serving those with vision impairment for over eight decades; we are known nationally as a premier Vision Rehabilitation Center. Located just outside of Boston on a sprawling campus in Newton, Massachusetts, we proudly serve ALL ages and ALL stages of vision loss. With the ongoing promise of improving the lives of people with vision-related problems, The Carroll Center for the Blind has pioneered many innovative services allowing people who are blind or have low vision to learn the skills to be independent in their homes, in class settings, and in their work places. Our services include vision rehabilitation, vocational and transition programs, assistive technology training, educational support, and recreation opportunities for individuals who are visually impaired of all ages. For over 80 years, the expertise of Carroll Center staff has provided help for thousands of blind and visually impaired persons with diverse opportunities for success and independent living.
Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions
➜ Give the Gift of Equal Access!
https://scribeit.io/
Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ VisionAware Resources: The Reader's Digest Getting Started Guide to Vision Loss
https://visionaware.org/
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/120920211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Coding is Easy and Accessible with Colby the Code & Go Robot Mouse
https://www.aph.org/product/accessible-code-and-go-mouse/
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ GuideLights And Gadgets
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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 📱️.
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, December 2, 2021 - Volume 835 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, December 2, 2021 - Volume 835
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: APH ConnectCenter: Your One-Stop Hub for Resources About Thriving with Blindness or Low Vision
APH ConnectCenter's suite of websites: VisionAware, APH CareerConnect, and FamilyConnect are chock-full of information about thriving with blindness and low vision at all ages and stages of life. If you're new to life with vision loss - check out the Reader's Digest Getting Started Guide available on the VisionAware website. If you have blindness related questions call our I&R Line at (800) 232-5463 📱️. If you're looking for inspiring success stories from people thriving with blindness, informational webinars, blogs, resources for living with vision loss, and our blindness community calendar check out VisionAware, APH CareerConnect, and FamilyConnect at:
https://aphconnectcenter.org/
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) How to Use VoiceOver Image Descriptions With Your iPhone Photos: (7.9% of all clicks.)https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-use-voiceover-image-descriptions-iphone/
B.) Enhancements in JAWS 2022.2110.60 | November 2021: (6.8% of all clicks.)
https://support.freedomscientific.com/downloads/jaws/JAWSWhatsNew
C.) Serviceplan and Dot Inc Develop First Customisable Object-Recognition Platform for the Visually Impaired: (5.9% of all clicks.)
https://www.lbbonline.com/news/serviceplan-and-dot-inc-develop-first-customisable-object-recognition-platform-for-the-visually-impaired
D.) Leading Websites Rated For Accessibility For The Visually Impaired: (5.6% of all clicks.)
https://www.digitaljournal.com/social-media/leading-websites-rated-for-accessibility-for-the-visually-impaired/article
E.) This Is 'Baldphone', The Launcher That Turns Any Android Smartphone Into A Simple Phone: (5.3% of all clicks.)
https://voonze.com/this-is-baldphone-the-launcher-that-turns-any-mobile-into-a-simple-phone-for-the-elderly/
2) One Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Package Currently Available
Please consider helping us to support the ongoing distribution of this publication. Join 11 other AT Industry Leaders in giving Tidbits readers the gift of free weekly technology information while reaching over 6,900 Assistive Technology professionals, educators and enthusiasts each week. All for just $25 a week! There's no value quite like it in the industry. If you would like to join us in supporting Tidbits while enjoying some really incredible marketing benefits, please reach out to our publisher today at: publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️. Or learn more at:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
3) Recording of November 23rd 2021 Webinar from Microsoft | Windows 11 Accessibility Overview | YouTube - MSFTEnable
This webinar focuses on a broad overview of accessibility in Windows 11, including new Contrast themes, how Windows 11 makes accessibility features easier to find and use, and more:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uDzVBNry31s
4) Fusion Power Tip: Zoomy, Make it Bigger
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/43.html
5) The Start Menu and Search App in Windows 11 | dSurf
In this lesson you learn about the Windows 11 Start menu. We also briefly introduce you to the Search app. Follow along with the keyboard to explore the Pinned area of the Start menu, the All Apps button and list, the Recommended list, the More button, and the User Account button and Power buttons in the Start menu:https://dsurf.net/the-start-menu-and-search-app-in-windows-11/
6) AppleVis Unlimited: What's New and Noteworthy for November 2021
https://www.applevis.com/newsletter/applevis-unlimited-whats-new-noteworthy-november-20217) Live Text, New In iOS 15 Is Amazing, But It Took Us 45 Years Of Technical Advancements To Get There
Live text is awesome, it just took us a long time, 45 years, to get there:https://accessibility-insights.com/2021/11/06/live-text-new-in-ios-15-is-amazing-but-it-took-us-45-years-of-technical-advancements-to-get-there/
8) Postgraduate Student Creates Buzz For Visually Impaired Musicians
Ziqun Hua, a postgraduate student from Loughborough's School of Design and Creative Arts has created Buzz, an inclusive product design for instrumental ensemble practice for visually impaired people:https://coolblindtech.com/postgraduate-student-creates-buzz-for-visually-impaired-musicians/
9) Rollova 2.0 Is An Easy To Use Digital Ruler That Makes Measurements A Breeze
Rollova 2.0 aims to make measuring a lot simpler and convenient. Small enough to fit in one's pocket, its rollover motion can easily measure any surface, be it straight or curvy and at any angle up to 10 meters in metric mode and 83 feet in inches mode. All it takes is pressing the button in the back and running it on the surface. Plus, it requires the use of just one hand:https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2021/11/rollova-2-0-is-an-easy-to-use-digital-ruler-that-makes-measurements-a-breeze.html
10) Recording From Freedom Scientific: Beginners Corner: When to Use The Tab Key or Arrow Keys When Navigating
https://hwcdn.libsyn.com/p/2/9/e/29ee2d7739614960/Beginners_Corner_Tabs_and_Arrows_mixdown.mp3?c_id=116525903&cs_id=116525903&destination_id=2240180&expiration=1638320862&hwt=472d592590077080128fdda55fdf406511) Introducing Soundscape Routes!
Create a route for yourself or for someone else by organizing a set of markers as waypoints. When you follow your route with Microsoft Soundscape, you will be informed on arrival to each waypoint, and the Audio Beacon will automatically advance to the next waypoint. New audio beacons were also added:https://apps.apple.com/us/app/microsoft-soundscape/id1240320677?ls=1
12) Supersense - AI for Blind Updates
Additional language support, faster "quick read mode," ad QR code support are among some of the enhancements:https://apps.apple.com/app/apple-store/id1484547836?mt=8
13) More Accessible Web Images Arrive In 10 New Languages On Chrome
Google has added additional languages to its auto generated images descriptions in Chrome:https://blog.google/outreach-initiatives/accessibility/more-accessible-web-images-arrive-10-new-languages/
14) Do Even More With Your Chromebook Camera
You can now scan documents with the camera on a Chromebook. There is no word on OCR (optical Character recognition) which would make these scanned documents accessible to screen readers:https://blog.google/products/chromebooks/new-camera-updates/
15) How to Insert a Table of Contents in Microsoft Word with NVDA | YouTube - TheeQuin
Thee Quinn is back with another high-quality audio demonstration of how to create a table of contents in Word using NVDA:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DBfnX3AVLtA
16) Android Privacy Settings To Change Now To Keep Your Information Safe
This post is part of an informative series called Privacy Reset. Learn how to control what you share when using your Android device:https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2021/11/29/android-privacy-settings/
17) 25 Best macOS Monterey Settings You Should Change
Now that the dust has settled on the latest MacOS, check out these 25 settings to customize and refine your experience:https://beebom.com/macos-monterey-settings/
18) How to Enable Reader Mode (Simplified View) in Chrome for Android
The Chrome browser on Android has its own mode for stripping the clutter out of webpages so they're easier to read. Find out how to take advantage:https://techpp.com/2021/11/26/reader-mode-simplified-view-chrome-android/
19) How to Get Google Assistant to Read Web Pages to You
Have Google Assistant read aloud webpages to you with this little-known feature:https://www.androidcentral.com/how-get-google-assistant-read-web-pages-you
20) Use A Screen Reader With Office Apps
Microsoft provides comprehensive support pages for using their Office applications with screen readers. Here is the official list:https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/use-a-screen-reader-with-office-apps-4aba5a56-f80c-4a6b-a584-d0f415471617
21) Announcing Emacspeak 55.0 — CalmDog!
Emacspeak is a fully functional audio desktop that provides complete eyes-free access to all major 32 and 64 bit operating environments. By seamlessly blending live access to all aspects of the Internet such as ubiquitous assistance, Web-surfing, blogging, remote software development, social computing and electronic messaging into the audio desktop, Emacspeak enables spoken access to local and remote information with a consistent and well-integrated user interface. A rich suite of task-oriented tools provides efficient speech-enabled access to the evolving assistant-oriented social Internet cloud:https://emacspeak.blogspot.com/2021/11/announcing-emacspeak-550-calmdog.html
22) Zoom Finally Adds Automatic Updates To Windows, MacOS Clients
Zoom has announced the launch of an automatic update feature designed to streamline the update process for desktop clients:https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/zoom-finally-adds-automatic-updates-to-windows-macos-clients/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Canadian Organizations Partner With Scribe For Meetings To Enhance Accessibility And Inclusivity
CNIB, CNIB Deafblind Community Services (DBCS) and Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada (VLRC) have partnered with Scribe for Meetings to help make remote programs, meetings and presentations more accessible and inclusive:https://pneumasolutions.com/canadian-organizations-partner-with-scribe-for-meetings-to-enhance-accessibility-and-inclusivity/
2) Level Access Acquires Tenon, Strengthening its Best-in-Class Digital Accessibility Solutions
Level Access has announced the acquisition of Tenon, a premier integrated accessibility testing company:https://www.levelaccess.com/level-access-news/level-access-acquires-tenon/
3) First Person In The World Receives 3D Printed Eye Prosthesis
Cool Blind tech has the story. A British engineer named Steve Verze became the first person in the world to receive an eyeball prosthesis printed with 3D technology:https://coolblindtech.com/first-person-in-the-world-receives-3d-printed-prosthesis/
4) Pandemic Has Heightened IT's Accessibility Issues
This article highlights some implications of telecommuting for persons with disabilities during the CoVid-19 pandemic in the United States:https://statescoop.com/pandemic-it-accessibility-nascio-minnesota/
5) Blind People Won the Right to Break E-book DRM. In 3 Years, They'll Have to Do It Again
This article outlines the importance of the ability to break DRM (digital rights management) for e-books. And that this exemption must be renewed every three years:https://www.wired.com/story/ebooks-drm-blind-accessibility-dmca/
6) Serviceplan and Dot Inc Develop First Customisable Object-recognition Platform for the Visually Impaired
The two companies have taken another step forward in this endeavour with the Dot Go app, a community-driven platform that recognises objects and distances, and connects these to specific actions:https://www.lbbonline.com/news/serviceplan-and-dot-inc-develop-first-customisable-object-recognition-platform-for-the-visually-impaired
7) Tile Acquired By Life360, a Family Location Tracking App
Tile may be reaching record sales, but the company has struggled to accept Apple's "anti-competitive" entry into the world of item tracking. That's why Tile is now selling its Bluetooth tracking business to Life360, a family location tracking app, in a $205 million deal:https://www.reviewgeek.com/104038/tile-acquired-by-life30-a-family-location-tracking-app/
8) Exclusive: How The Austin Lighthouse For The Blind Uses Robotics To Make Warehouse Work More Efficient And More Accessible
One job on the Lighthouse's docket is providing logistical services to military organizations like the Department of Defense; the Lighthouse oversees a million square feet of warehouse and distribution space in Austin and the surrounding area. This spring, in partnership with Fetch Robotics — who was acquired over the summer by Zebra Technologies — the Lighthouse began working with autonomous mobile robots, or AMRs, in an effort to help Blind and low vision workers in the warehouse:https://www.forbes.com/sites/stevenaquino/2021/11/29/exclusive-how-the-austin-lighthouse-for-the-blind-uses-robotics-to-make-warehouse-work-more-efficient-and-more-accessible/?sh=530ee8d14ccb
9) Braille Institute Receives 2021 COSB Champion Award
The Council of Schools and Services for the Blind (COSB) has bestowed their highest honor, the Champion Award, to Braille Institute in recognition of their positive and significant impact nationally with youth who are blind or visually impaired (BVI):https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/braille-institute-receives-2021-cosb-champion-award-301433332.html
10) CVS Expands 'Talking' Prescription Labels To All Locations To Support Visually Impaired Patients
CVS Pharmacy is expanding an in-app feature for visually impaired patients, which reads prescription information out loud, to all of its nearly 10,000 U.S. locations:https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/digital-health/cvs-expands-talking-prescription-labels-to-all-locations-to-support-visually
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Blind Android Users 51 | Time To Be Thankful
November 27th 2021 | In this thanksgiving special episode, we give thanks for everything in Android land. We demo Inware app that lets you learn all the system configurations about your phone. We also show you how to fix some problems in Google Assistant that are being discussed on our mailing list. And in talkback highlights we show editing text on phones running android 10 and lower. To listen to the podcast, please visit:https://blindandroidusers.com/category/bauposts/shownotes/
2) Mosen At Large 159
November 27th 2021 The unacceptable price blind audiophiles pay for audio description, 20 years since George Harrison died, and our Chromebook series concludes:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/84e621d1/the-unacceptable-price-blind-audiophiles-pay-for-audio-description-20-years-since-george-harrison-died-and-our-chromebook-series-concludes
3) Eyes on Success 2149 Encore of 1637 Waitressing in the Dark
December 1st 2021"Dining in the Dark" restaurants have opened in many countries. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey speak with Christine Malec, author and massage therapist, about the 2 years she spent as a blind waitress in a totally dark restaurant. She describes the dining and serving experience when the tables are turned and what she learned both about herself and about her customers:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%201249.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) 2nd Annual Sight Tech Global 2021
December 1st & 2nd 2021 | 100% free. 100% virtual. Sight Tech Global is the first global, virtual conference dedicated to fostering discussion among technology pioneers on how rapid advances in AI and related technologies will fundamentally alter the landscape of assistive technology and accessibility. Registration is now open:https://sighttechglobal.com/
2) FSOpenLine | Freedom Scientific's Global Call-in Show
December 2nd 2021 | 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 1AM GMT, 12/3 | Do you have questions about Freedom Scientific products or an idea you want to share? Join us and have your voice heard by key members of Freedom Scientific's product management and engineering teams. During the August FSOpenLine, we provided a sneak peek at JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion 2022. In this show, we'll discuss the recent release of these software products, and tell you more about important features:https://blog.freedomscientific.com/join-us-for-fsopenline-7/
3) Windows 11 & Accessibility For The AT With Runa Patel from Microsoft | N.O.A.T.
December 3rd 2021 | 10:30AM PT, 11:30AM MT, 12:30PM CT, 1:30PM ET, 6:30PM GMT | The Network of Assistive Technologists will be welcoming Runa Patel from Microsoft Canada as she brings us an overview of Windows 11 and the Accessibility options it offers. The training session will highlight interesting accessibility features in Windows 11 including Cortana, Narrator, Magnification, closed captioning etc. The audience for this presentation includes users of Assistive Technology as well as professionals working in the Assistive Technology field. This presentation will provide an overview of some of the exciting updates being made in Windows 11 as well as answer any question you may have regarding using Windows 11 with Assistive Technology. Thank you in advance for joining Microsoft for this Windows 11 presentation!https://sites.google.com/NOAT.ca/events/
4) Streamline Accessibility with Zapier and ARC's New Enterprise Tier | TPGi
December 8th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMThttps://www.tpgi.com/webinar-december-8-at-12pm-et-streamline-accessibility-with-zapier-and-arcs-new-enterprise-tier/
5) Bug Out at Alphapointe's Technology Camp! Ideas for STEAM Activities with Code Jumper | APH
December 8th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 8PM GMT | Code Jumper is a STEM tool that builds critical thinking skills in students of all abilities. In this webinar, learn how Code Jumper can be used to grow students' confidence and interest in STEAM as we take a closer look at Alphapointe's summer Technology Camp for students 12-18 who have visual impairments. Join us for an exploration of Code Jumper Lesson 5: Debugging and exterminate your questions about Code Jumper. Register Here for Bug Out at Alphapointe's Technology Camp! Ideas for STEAM Activities with Code Jumper:https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_KFx8jaOPSHSbyn3VRrbqpg
6) Managing Websites and Webpages With JAWS | Access Ingenuity
December 8th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Join Zhi Huang and Rachel Reeves from Access Ingenuity as they demonstrate ways to better manage your websites and webpages using your browser and JAWS. | Meeting ID: 817 5158 2526 | Passcode: 341540 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,81751582526#,,,,*341540# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join the Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81751582526?pwd=NWRVVUwwSWFQQzBjZVkrblYrY3dnZz09
7) SenseAbility! Using the BrailleSense 6 | An 8 Lesson Course for $112.00 USD from Hartgen Consultancy
December 8th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | The training course will be held over at least eight sessions starting in December 2021. Within each session, you will be able to ask questions relating to the topic being worked through. Broadly speaking, topics will include:http://hartgen.org/senseability
8) Setting the Table for Accessibility: Creating Inclusive Experiences for QSR / Restaurant Customers | TPGi
December 9th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMThttps://www.tpgi.com/webinar-december-9-at-12pm-et-creating-inclusive-experiences-for-qsr-restaurant-customers/
9) Using Braille Commands with VoiceOver: "Apple"-ly Your Braille Skills to the Mantis and Chameleon | APH
December 9th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | It's beginning to look a lot like the end of the semester, so come join us for a refresher on using your braille display with VoiceOver. Our primary focus will be the Chameleon 20 braille display from APH but we'll also cover some tips relevant to the Mantis Q40 and all of our Perkins keyboard braille tips will be relevant for other braille displays. Check it out and by the end you will be zipping around your Apple device with braille at your fingertips! Register Here for Using Braille Commands with VoiceOver: "Apple"-ly Your Braille Skills to the Mantis and Chameleon:https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_d-i9rgoOSHOsaYpFswdsrQ
10) Setting the Table for Accessibility: Creating Inclusive Experiences for QSR / Restaurant Customers | TPGi
December 9th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | An inclusive ordering process and restaurant environment are critical parts of designing a complete and inclusive customer dining experience. Consider incorporating accessibility into your dining experiences, from your website and mobile application to your in-person kiosk ordering experience to your on-site menu. Each connection builds upon the next when we are discussing your customers' dining experience. Join Laura Boniello-Miller and Matt Ater for this exciting webinar and learn the essential aspects of creating an inclusive QSR restaurant experience and making your customers with disabilities feel welcome at your table:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-december-9-at-12pm-et-creating-inclusive-experiences-for-qsr-restaurant-customers/
11) Five Best New Apps To Debut in 2021 | Technology User Group (TUG)
December 11th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | On Saturday, December 11th 2021 the Technology User Group will showcase the five best new apps to debut in 2021, as well as look forward into 2022 to highlight upcoming trends and the tech that will be disappearing. Have you discovered a smart phone app that you enjoy? Feel free to share information about the app with all of us. You do not have to RSVP for this event. The presentation will begin at 10 AM and last about 60 minutes. We look forward to meeting with you and hope that you will join us for other exciting events we have planned for 2022 and beyond. This presentation will be virtual and may be joined by calling:(319) 527-4994 📱️
12) Structuring Accessible Forms | TPGi
December 14th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMThttps://www.tpgi.com/webinar-december-14-at-12pm-et-structuring-accessible-forms/
13) ADA Audio Conference Webinar Series | Accessible Technology on Smartphones & Tablets for Users that are Blind and Low Vision
December 14th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | The Great Lakes ADA Center in collaboration with the ADA National Network invites you to register for the upcoming ADA Audio Conference Webinar titled, "Accessible Technology on Smartphones & Tablets for users that are Blind and Low Vision", featuring Michael McCulloch, President, iBug, Sandhya Rao, Vice President of Training and Special Event, iBug, and Harshid Trivedi, Android Insight Facilitator, iBUG. Join us for the first of two sessions highlighting accessible technology on smartphones and tablets for persons with disabilities. In this session our speakers will highlight mobile apps used by persons who are blind or have low vision. The session will include apps used for way finding, social media and more. The session will also explore built-in accessibility features of iOS and Android operating platforms. There will be time following the presentation for questions. Time: 2-3:30 PM ET (calculate the start time based on the time zone you will be connecting from). Format: Zoom Webinar Platform (closed captioning will be provided via Zoom and Stream Text link option). Cost: No Charge. Registration Required: Registration for this session can be found on the schedule page at http://www.ada-audio.org. If you do not have an account with our system you will be required to establish one before registering. Registration deadline: Monday, December 13, 2021. CEUs: Certificate of Attendance, ACTCP. Questions should be directed to:webinars@adaconferences.org 📧️
14) Structuring Accessible Forms | TPGi
December 14th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Creating accessible forms is the science of constructing form fields that provide the correct name, role, and state through the data entry experience. In this webinar, we examine how to: Create and label form fields of different types. Group related form fields, like radio buttons. Mark form fields as required. Handle input errors. Verify data integrity. Through code examples and testing with a screen reader, you'll learn how to create form fields that work for all your users. Register today:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-december-14-at-12pm-et-structuring-accessible-forms/
15) JAWS: Maximizing the Experience for You and Your Students Part 2 | Access Ingenuity
December 15th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Although the JAWS screen reader is a powerful program that provides many features and support for many applications, some individuals do not like JAWS. Unfortunately, a lot of the time, this is from not knowing some of the available tools and features and not having JAWS or Windows configured to utilize JAWS to the fullest. Join Ian Ramos, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity as they explain some ideal settings and ways to access JAWS features to improve your experience. Although this is a Part 2, you can still benefit even if you did not attend the previous session. We will quickly summarize the main points in Part 1. | Meeting ID: 839 0370 2793 | Passcode: 356314 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83903702793#,,,,*356314# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join the Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83903702793?pwd=QXZuNjdvelo4aVpMVnE5NUcxYnJ1dz09
16) BlindShell Cell Phone Demonstration
December 18th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | On Saturday, December 18, 2021 at 10:00 AM Eastern the Computer Science & Technology Division of the NFB of SC will have representatives from Matapo to give us a demonstration on the BlindShell cell phone! This presentation will take place on the Federation Zoom platform. | Meeting ID: 803 254 3777 | Passcode: 124578 | One tap mobile: +19292056099,,8032543777# US (New York). Join at:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8032543777?pwd=QTVQd2RzN3l6QnNmZ0FmSnp6NG8vQT09
17) Shopping With JAWS and Windows | Access Ingenuity
December 22nd 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | It's the holidays! You might still be looking for a last-minute gift. Perhaps you just want to know how a competent screen reader user would search for specific items. Join Ian Ramos and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity as they use many of the web browsing tips previously introduced to go shopping on a PC using JAWS. | Meeting ID: 832 9367 4055 | Passcode: 291237 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83293674055#,,,,*291237# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose):https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83293674055?pwd=Z2ZkNlpKK2liTWpDWmlOd2lDMkFQQT09
18) ATHEN (Access Technology Higher Education Network) 1st Annual "Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM) Accessibility: Starting with Math"
February 10th 2022 and February 11th 2022 | This virtual conference will take place on February 10th and 11th 2022. We are striving to create a diverse conference where experts can share their best practices, solutions, techniques, etc. for accessing and creating accessible STEM content in higher education. Join us! | Call for Proposal (Google Form) (Open now!) | Brush up by taking a sneak peek into the complexities in creating accessible STEM content in the YouTube video "Factors Involved in Making STEM Content Accessible" (10-minutes). | Conference Details, Dates, Registration, Cost:.https://athenpro.org/content/athen-virtual-conference
19) Axe-Con 2022
March 15th 2022 through March 17th 2022 | Axe-con is an open and inclusive digital accessibility conference that welcomes developers, designers, business users, and accessibility professionals of all experience levels to a new kind of accessibility conference focused on building, testing, and maintaining accessible digital experiences. Register for Axe-Con 2022, it's free! Join us for this three-day, multi-track conference to help further your digital accessibility efforts. Hear from the top experts in the field, for your area of interest with none of the noise. Learn more about why you should attend or get started by saving your seat by registering now:https://www.deque.com/axe-con/
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Humanware Braillenote Touch Plus 32 + Accessories
Listing Date: 11/25/2021 | Price: $2750.00 USD | Condition: Gently used. | Description: Like new. This Humanware Braillenote Touch Plus 32 just hasn't been used much, so selling for half price to a good home. It has it's accessories and is probably the best known notetaker / computer for the blind that can also be used as a 32 cell Braille display. | Contact: Joe via Email JS5lio021@gmail.com 📧️ or (425) 298-6834 📱️. |2) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: Blind Mice Mega Mall
➜ DannyBoy Portable Smart Phone & Device Stand Save 20% Now $39.99
https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/bmm/shop/Item_Detail?itemid=5156439
Sponsor Since: September 23rd 2021
Website: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/ 🌐
Blind Mice Order Center Phone: (866) 922-8877 📱️
Blind Mice Order Center Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM CST/CDT (GMT-5) Monday through Friday
Mall Directory of Stores: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/bmm/shop/Directory 🛒
Join The Today's Cheese Newsletter: Join the Today's Cheese newsletter to get Members' Only sales & Unadvertised Specials from the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You can save money with these unadvertised specials! Send an email to: TodaysCheese+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
Blind Mice Swap Shop: Sell, Swap, and Buy. The Mice receive calls everyday asking if we buy or sell used or unwanted items. The Mice don't sell used products but to help our members, we created the Blind Mice Swap Shop! The Blind Mice Swap Shop is the place for Sellers, Traders, & Buyers to find each other! Do you ... have something you don't want anymore... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something you just don't use... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something new to sell... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Provide a service that might be helpful to other Blind and Visually Impaired folks... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Have an announcement about an upcoming event beneficial to the Blind & Visually Impaired Community... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Joining the Blind Mice Swap Shop is free and as easy as sending an email to: BlindMiceSwapShop+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
About: Welcome to Blind Mice Mega Mall! The Mall with the Blind In Mind! Blind Mice Mega Mall is designed for use with a screen reader and low vision software for visually impaired shoppers. Each store is an independent business owned / managed by a member of the Blind / Low Vision Community. Please browse & shop the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You will find great items and unique offerings from our merchants. You help the Blind Community every time you make a purchase from any of the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. Every purchase made at Blind Mice Mega Mall gives back to the Blind and Visually Impaired Community. Proceeds from sales fund the MouseHole Scholarship Program, the Cooking In The Dark Show and The Movie Vault. Blind Mice Mega Mall accepts American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, Checks, and Money Orders. Purchase Orders From State Agencies are also welcome.
Sponsor: Carroll Center for the Blind
➜ Don't Miss the Virtual Technology Fair for People Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired
https://bit.ly/3vBaUk2
Sponsor Since: August 5th 2021
Website: https://carroll.org/ 🌐
Phone: (617) 969-6200 📱️
Fax: (617) 969-6204 ░Shop: https://carroll.org/store/ 🛒
Donate: https://carroll.org/donate ❤
Social: Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | LinkedIn | Instagram
About: The Carroll Center for the Blind is the foremost leader in vision rehabilitation services for individuals confronted by the challenges of vision loss. Our mission is to empower those who are blind or visually impaired to achieve independence and to lead a fulfilling life. Established in 1936, the renowned Carroll Center for the Blind has been serving those with vision impairment for over eight decades; we are known nationally as a premier Vision Rehabilitation Center. Located just outside of Boston on a sprawling campus in Newton, Massachusetts, we proudly serve ALL ages and ALL stages of vision loss. With the ongoing promise of improving the lives of people with vision-related problems, The Carroll Center for the Blind has pioneered many innovative services allowing people who are blind or have low vision to learn the skills to be independent in their homes, in class settings, and in their work places. Our services include vision rehabilitation, vocational and transition programs, assistive technology training, educational support, and recreation opportunities for individuals who are visually impaired of all ages. For over 80 years, the expertise of Carroll Center staff has provided help for thousands of blind and visually impaired persons with diverse opportunities for success and independent living.
Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions
➜ Give the Gift of Equal Access!
https://scribeit.io/
Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ VisionAware Resources: The Reader's Digest Getting Started Guide to Vision Loss
https://visionaware.org/
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/120220211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Coding is Easy and Accessible with Colby the Code & Go Robot Mouse
https://www.aph.org/product/accessible-code-and-go-mouse/
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ GuideLights And Gadgets
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: HIMS, Inc.
➜ Order Now! Get The Most Powerful Android Notetaker Available, the BrailleSense 6 From HIMS. It's Simply The Best.
https://hims-inc.com/product/braillesense-6/
Sponsor Since: September 30th 2021
Website: https://hims-inc.com/ 🌐
Shop All Products: https://hims-inc.com/shop-all-products/ 🛒
Phone: (512) 837-2000 📱️
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5R9NjA1nfWo
Sales Email: sales@hims-inc.com 📧️
Support Email: support@hims-inc.com 📧️
About: HIMS, Inc. is a global manufacturer and distributor that has provided braille, magnification and accessible healthcare devices since 1999.
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|
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, November 25, 2021 - Volume 834 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, November 25, 2021 - Volume 834
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
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Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: One Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Package Currently Available! Please Consider Giving Tidbits Readers The Gift of Free Weekly Technology Information While Reaching Over 6,800 Assistive Technology Professionals, Educators And Enthusiasts Each Week! All for Just $25 a Week!
This issue made possible by sponsorship support from: A. T. Guys, GuideLights And Gadgets, American Printing House, LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store, HumanWare, APH ConnectCenter, Freedom Scientific, Pneuma Solutions, Carroll Center for the Blind, Blind Mice Mega Mall and HIMS, Inc..
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) JAWS Power Tip: Using the Word List Command | Freedom Scientific: (10.4% of all clicks.)https://www.toptechtidbits.com/42.html
B.) 4 Awesome Shortcut Keys for Navigating Windows That Most People Don't Know | YouTube - Thee Quin: (9.1% of all clicks.)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OcuFjsn0wWw&t=11s
C.) A Guide to the Accessibility Features in iOS 15: (5.6% of all clicks.)
https://www.afb.org/aw/22/10/17719
D.) Bose, Apple, Jabra: Direct-To-Consumer Hearing Aids - Reviewed: (4.4% of all clicks.)
https://www.reviewed.com/accessibility/features/bose-apple-jabra-direct-consumer-hearing-aids
E.) What Should A Blind Person Know About Using A Smart Phone Or Tablet With Speech? | YouTube - Insight4blind: (4.2% of all clicks.)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SSzaaCANuGE
2) One Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Package Currently Available
Please consider helping us to support the ongoing distribution of this publication. Join 11 other AT Industry Leaders in giving Tidbits readers the gift of free weekly technology information while reaching over 6,900 Assistive Technology professionals, educators and enthusiasts each week. All for just $25 a week! There's no value quite like it in the industry. If you would like to join us in supporting Tidbits while enjoying some really incredible marketing benefits, please reach out to our publisher today at: publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️. Or learn more at:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
3) Windows 11 Gets a Keyboard Shortcut to Mute Your Mic
Microsoft has just announced a new Windows 11 Insider Preview build for the Dev channel. Version 22504 is not the most exciting update, but it does bring a keyboard shortcut to the new taskbar mute button:https://www.howtogeek.com/769494/windows-11-gets-a-keyboard-shortcut-to-mute-your-mic/
4) How to Use VoiceOver Image Descriptions With Your iPhone Photos
Apple introduced a new feature in iOS 15 that allows users to add image descriptions to their photos that can be read by VoiceOver:https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-use-voiceover-image-descriptions-iphone/
5) Want to Use VoiceOver in a Different Language? Here's How to Change It
Follow this simple guide to switch VoiceOver to a different language on your iPhone:https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-change-voiceover-language-iphone/
6) Serviceplan and Dot Inc Develop First Customisable Object-Recognition Platform for the Visually Impaired
With the Dot Go app, Dot Incorporation and Serviceplan Innovation have created a platform that can be used to recognise objects and distances, and connect these to actions:https://www.lbbonline.com/news/serviceplan-and-dot-inc-develop-first-customisable-object-recognition-platform-for-the-visually-impaired
7) From The W3C | For Review: Accessibility of Remote Meetings - First Public Working Draft
The Working Draft of Accessibility of Remote Meetings is available for review and comment. This potential resource relates to How to Make Your Presentations Accessible to All and Making Audio and Video Media Accessible. We welcome input on how this information can better help vendors, organizations, and individuals make remote meetings more accessible to people with disabilities:https://www.w3.org/WAI/news/2021-10-14/remote-meetings/
8) Enhancements in JAWS 2022.2110.60 | November 2021
The latest November Jaws enhancements were released on Wednesday. Enhancements include fixes for updating and migrating settings:https://support.freedomscientific.com/downloads/jaws/JAWSWhatsNew
9) Mozilla Is Ending Support For Its Firefox Password Manager Sync App
If you use Lockwise, the password manager from Mozilla, then you will need to look for something new shortly, and here is how you can export your data to another password manager:https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/export-login-data-firefox-lockwise
10) Windows 11 Update Makes BSOD Blue Again and Fixes Major File Explorer Bugs
If you have had trouble with Windows 11's file explorer, the latest update from Microsoft may help:https://www.tomshardware.com/news/windows-11-update-fixes-bsod-file-explorer-issues
11) Accessibility In Gaming Report
More accurate and more frequent representation of disabled people or characters within games were among the most frequent recommendations among gamers in this study out of the UK:https://www.scope.org.uk/campaigns/research-policy/accessibility-in-gaming/#Interests-and-behaviours-among-disabled-gamers
12) Google's 'Look To Speak' Accessibility App Now Works In 17 More Languages
For those with speech/language disabilities and those with some motor impairments, Look to Speak is an app that allows one to control their Android smartphone with their eyes by looking at predetermined and prewritten phrases, which the smartphone will then read aloud. It now works in more languages:https://9to5google.com/2021/11/24/googles-look-to-speak-accessibility-app-now-works-in-17-more-languages/
13) FCC to Host Video Programming Accessibility Forum
Captioning and other ways to enhance accessibility are on the agenda:https://www.rbr.com/fcc-to-host-video-programming-accessibility-forum/
14) Announcing Emacspeak 55.0 - CalmDog!
The latest audio desktop from T. V. Raman is out:https://emacspeak.blogspot.com/2021/11/announcing-emacspeak-550-calmdog.html
15) How To Change The Look And Feel Of Windows 11
The Windows 11 appearance is highly customizable. Windows Central shows you how to adjust backgrounds, colors and themes to suit your visual needs. Oh, and did you know that you can put that Start button back on the bottom left if you're not a fan of its new position front and center?https://www.windowscentral.com/how-change-look-and-feel-windows-11
16) Google Chrome Extension SignUp Offers Sign Language for Disney+ Movies
This exciting Google Chrome extension brings sign language to many movies on Disney+, and it's set to come to other streaming platforms soon:http://newzhook.com/story/google-chrome-extension-signup-offers-sign-language-for-disney-movies/
17) This Is 'Baldphone', The Launcher That Turns Any Android Smartphone Into A Simple Phone
This free App, with a rather interesting name, promises to transform an Android smartphone into a simple user experience for those that struggle with technology:https://voonze.com/this-is-baldphone-the-launcher-that-turns-any-mobile-into-a-simple-phone-for-the-elderly/
18) Discord Now Lets You Send Up To 10 (Accessible) Memes At A Time
Discord now allows users to add alt text to image attachments on its Mac and Windows platforms:https://www.theverge.com/2021/11/19/22791035/discord-alt-text-support-10-image-uploads-at-a-time
19) Clubhouse Adds Closed Captioning To Its iPhone App
The popular audio chat platform adds long-awaited automatic closed captions to enhance accessibility for iPhone users:https://www.imore.com/clubhouse-adds-closed-captioning-its-iphone-app
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Leading Websites Rated For Accessibility For The Visually Impaired
Ahead of United Nations' International Day for People with Disability on December 3rd, 2021, newly compiled data shows that over 40 percent of the most popular websites are inaccessible for users with visual impairments. The top 20 least accessible websites are:https://www.digitaljournal.com/social-media/leading-websites-rated-for-accessibility-for-the-visually-impaired/article
2) American Council of the Blind Salutes Audio Descriptions Award Winners
The AD Awards Gala categories recognized the best-of-the-best in the field of audio description in media. This year's award winners were selected by a diverse group of leaders from the audio description panel who have identified recipients as both audio description content leaders and media industry game changers! The evening began with honoring the legacy of the great Barry Cronin, Ph.D., Emmy Award Winner and creator of the Descriptive Video Service, WGBH-TV, 1994; for development of closed captioning and audio description:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/american-council-of-the-blind-salutes-audio-descriptions-award-winners-301428815.html
3) 'I Am Not My Blindness': What The Blind Community Wishes You Knew
If you're a sighted person, you likely have misconceptions about blind people. That you can close your eyes and suddenly understand what it's like to be blind. That a blind person you see about to cross the street needs your help doing so. That a blind person knows nothing but darkness:https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/health-wellness/2021/11/17/what-blind-visually-impaired-people-wish-you-knew/8637271002/
4) The Paralyzed Will Walk, the Blind Will See: The Bionics Revolution Is Coming
Electronic eyes, robotic arms and exoskeletons? USC experts meld man (and woman) with machine:https://news.usc.edu/trojan-family/usc-bionics-technology-neuroscience-paralyzed-robotic-exoskeleton/
5) 2022 Paralympic Winter Games: What You Need to Know
What may be the biggest Paralympic Winter Games in history is coming our way in March 2022. Get up to speed on when they're happening, what sports are being contested and more:https://www.nbcolympics.com/news/2022-paralympic-winter-games-what-you-need-know
6) TD Bank Launches Aira Service for All Stores
The Bank will work with Aira to deliver real-time information to blind and low-vision customers at TD Bank locations:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/td-bank-launches-aira-service-for-all-stores-301426813.html
7) Molly Burke's 10 Minute Blind Beauty Makeup Routine | YouTube - Allure
"The fun part about being blind and doing your makeup is you don't need a mirror!" Molly Burke shares her entire 10 minute beauty routine — including her hacks for blending and ensuring some symmetry. Molly also gives us some of her go-to "blind girl beauty" hacks for perfect blush and how to apply eyeliner:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SwRjCx93-gA
8) Xbox November Update Brings Colour Blindness Filters, Low Latency Xbox One Controller Firmware & Improved System Stability
The Xbox November Update is out now for Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One, making more significant feature additions for accessibility, delivering a new firmware update for older Xbox One controllers, updating the audio settings and more. It might not affect every person's day-to-day usage of the console, but this is a pretty decent step forward for the system:https://www.thesixthaxis.com/2021/11/18/xbox-november-2021-system-update-color-blind-low-latency-accessibility-tags-series-x-one/
9) This Technology Can Improve The Eyesight of the Visually Impaired. Here's How
More evidence for the efficacy of a groundbreaking new gene-editing medical procedure has emerged, deepening hope it will provide one-shot treatments or even cures for cancer, sickle cell anaemia and other conditions:https://europeansting.com/2021/11/18/this-technology-can-improve-the-eyesight-of-the-visually-impaired-heres-how/
10) For Blind Photographer Brittany Severance, Everything is 'Illuminated'
"For so long, I was striving to make everything look perfect in focus," says Severance, who has turned to making art about the way she sees. Her images are now on view at Worcester State University:https://www.bostonglobe.com/2021/11/18/arts/blind-photographer-brittany-severance-everything-is-illuminated/
11) Smart Homes
The Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation launches its new Smart Homes Made Simple website. Learn how to implement technology into the home for enhanced convenience and independence:https://smarthomesmadesimple.org/
12) Nearly 240 million Children with Disabilities Around the World, UNICEF's Most Comprehensive Statistical Analysis Finds
The new global estimate for the number of children with disabilities is higher than previous estimates:https://globalaccessibilitynews.com/2021/11/22/nearly-240-million-children-with-disabilities-around-the-world-unicefs-most-comprehensive-statistical-analysis-finds/
13) Xbox And Special Olympics Hold First 'Gaming For Inclusion' Esports Event
The Xbox Twitch channel and Special Olympics YouTube channel have the recorded events:https://techcrunch.com/2021/09/14/xbox-and-special-olympics-hold-first-gaming-for-inclusion-esports-event/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther 38: Great Lakes Monsters and Prepping for Disasters
November 13th 2021Episode 38 of AMI Audio's Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther explores Great Lakes monsters and people who know them well like Mowhawk Elder Norm Peters, and Jeremy Wade of the Nat Geo Show "River Monsters". Our Tips and Tech section assesses emergency power packs for accessibility and value. Join Lilly, Lewis and me as we face our fears and prepare for the worst:
https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/episode-38-great-lakes-monsters-and-prepping-for-disasters/id1530444764?i=1000541661779
2) Mosen At Large 158
November 13th 2021 New Realtek driver causes problems for some Dell owners, presenters describing themselves at meetings, and more on Chromebooks:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/da6c4f61/new-realtek-driver-causes-problems-for-some-dell-owners-presenters-describing-themselves-at-meetings-and-more-on-chromebooks
3) Blind Android Users 50 | Party Time!
November 20th 2021 | This week we thank all our listeners for listening and supporting us for 50 weeks. We celebrate with our listeners. We talk about gaming on Android and talk about accessible ways to play Playstation games. We also talk about fixes to Google Assistant if there is no chime if you use the G word. To listen to the podcast, please visit:https://blindandroidusers.com/category/bauposts/shownotes/
4) Eyes on Success 2148 Description To Me
November 24th 2021J.J. Hunt is an audio describer and storyteller. Christine Malec is an inquisitive member of the blind and partially sighted community who's always wondering about something. Together they host and produce the "Talk Description to Me" podcast. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with the pair about this innovative podcast geared to the visually impaired:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202148.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Creating and Using Tactile Graphics | National Federation of the Blind
November 30th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Learn to make and share graphs, maps, charts, icons, and more using a range of accessible tactile formats in the next boutique from the National Federation of the Blind. Tactile graphics are a critical component of information literacy for blind and low-vision people from early education to the workplace and everyday life. Join the National Federation of the Blind Center of Excellence in Nonvisual Accessibility on Tuesday, November 30, from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m., Eastern, to learn the basics of tactile graphics creation and why it matters. Topics to be covered include: High and low-tech approaches: What are accessible drawing tools, embossers, swellform and thermoform machines? How does 3D printing fit in? What expense, benefits, and limitations come with each format? What makes a tactile graphic meaningful, legible, and effective? Which approaches to graphics creation are most accessible to blind people? The NFB looks forward to bringing together blind professionals interested in creating tactile graphics, teachers of blind students, and colleagues, family members, and other allies of blind people for a lively exploration of tactile graphics, why they matter, and how to widen their adoption and availability. This boutique is presented by the National Federation of the Blind's Center for Excellence in Nonvisual Access in collaboration with Chancey Fleet. Chancey is president of the NFB's Assistive Technology Trainers' Division and directs the New York Public Library's Dimensions Lab, a free and open community space where blind and sighted people can come to access skill-building workshops, equipment, and mentorship for creating tactile graphics and 3D models. Register Now for Creating and Using Tactile Graphics:https://nfb.org/programs-services/center-excellence-nonvisual-access/trainings/accessibility-boutiques/accessibility-boutique-registration
2) Assistive Technology Assessment | Access Ingenuity
December 1st 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Join Mark Schafer and Ian Ramos from Access Ingenuity as they discuss the process of an assistive technology assessment and why it is necessary. Meeting ID: 825 6238 1644 | Passcode: 598447 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,82562381644#,,,,*598447# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join the Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82562381644?pwd=a21CcG1VU0dkWHBrSlBsK3FEcDVxZz09
3) 2nd Annual Sight Tech Global 2021
December 1st & 2nd 2021 | 100% free. 100% virtual. Sight Tech Global is the first global, virtual conference dedicated to fostering discussion among technology pioneers on how rapid advances in AI and related technologies will fundamentally alter the landscape of assistive technology and accessibility. Registration is now open:https://sighttechglobal.com/
4) Bug Out at Alphapointe's Technology Camp! Ideas for STEAM Activities with Code Jumper | APH
December 8th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 8PM GMT | Code Jumper is a STEM tool that builds critical thinking skills in students of all abilities. In this webinar, learn how Code Jumper can be used to grow students' confidence and interest in STEAM as we take a closer look at Alphapointe's summer Technology Camp for students 12-18 who have visual impairments. Join us for an exploration of Code Jumper Lesson 5: Debugging and exterminate your questions about Code Jumper. Register Here for Bug Out at Alphapointe's Technology Camp! Ideas for STEAM Activities with Code Jumper:https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_KFx8jaOPSHSbyn3VRrbqpg
5) Managing Websites and Webpages With JAWS | Access Ingenuity
December 8th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Join Zhi Huang and Rachel Reeves from Access Ingenuity as they demonstrate ways to better manage your websites and webpages using your browser and JAWS. | Meeting ID: 817 5158 2526 | Passcode: 341540 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,81751582526#,,,,*341540# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join the Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81751582526?pwd=NWRVVUwwSWFQQzBjZVkrblYrY3dnZz09
6) SenseAbility! Using the BrailleSense 6 | An 8 Lesson Course for $112.00 USD from Hartgen Consultancy
December 8th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | The training course will be held over at least eight sessions starting in December 2021. Within each session, you will be able to ask questions relating to the topic being worked through. Broadly speaking, topics will include:http://hartgen.org/senseability
7) Using Braille Commands with VoiceOver: "Apple"-ly Your Braille Skills to the Mantis and Chameleon | APH
December 9th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | It's beginning to look a lot like the end of the semester, so come join us for a refresher on using your braille display with VoiceOver. Our primary focus will be the Chameleon 20 braille display from APH but we'll also cover some tips relevant to the Mantis Q40 and all of our Perkins keyboard braille tips will be relevant for other braille displays. Check it out and by the end you will be zipping around your Apple device with braille at your fingertips! Register Here for Using Braille Commands with VoiceOver: "Apple"-ly Your Braille Skills to the Mantis and Chameleon:https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_d-i9rgoOSHOsaYpFswdsrQ
8) Setting the Table for Accessibility: Creating Inclusive Experiences for QSR / Restaurant Customers | TPGi
December 9th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | An inclusive ordering process and restaurant environment are critical parts of designing a complete and inclusive customer dining experience. Consider incorporating accessibility into your dining experiences, from your website and mobile application to your in-person kiosk ordering experience to your on-site menu. Each connection builds upon the next when we are discussing your customers' dining experience. Join Laura Boniello-Miller and Matt Ater for this exciting webinar and learn the essential aspects of creating an inclusive QSR restaurant experience and making your customers with disabilities feel welcome at your table:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-december-9-at-12pm-et-creating-inclusive-experiences-for-qsr-restaurant-customers/
9) Five Best New Apps To Debut in 2021 | Technology User Group (TUG)
December 11th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | On Saturday, December 11th 2021 the Technology User Group will showcase the five best new apps to debut in 2021, as well as look forward into 2022 to highlight upcoming trends and the tech that will be disappearing. Have you discovered a smart phone app that you enjoy? Feel free to share information about the app with all of us. You do not have to RSVP for this event. The presentation will begin at 10 AM and last about 60 minutes. We look forward to meeting with you and hope that you will join us for other exciting events we have planned for 2022 and beyond. This presentation will be virtual and may be joined by calling:(319) 527-4994 📱️
10) Structuring Accessible Forms | TPGi
December 14th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Creating accessible forms is the science of constructing form fields that provide the correct name, role, and state through the data entry experience. In this webinar, we examine how to: Create and label form fields of different types. Group related form fields, like radio buttons. Mark form fields as required. Handle input errors. Verify data integrity. Through code examples and testing with a screen reader, you'll learn how to create form fields that work for all your users. Register today:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-december-14-at-12pm-et-structuring-accessible-forms/
11) JAWS: Maximizing the Experience for You and Your Students Part 2 | Access Ingenuity
December 15th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Although the JAWS screen reader is a powerful program that provides many features and support for many applications, some individuals do not like JAWS. Unfortunately, a lot of the time, this is from not knowing some of the available tools and features and not having JAWS or Windows configured to utilize JAWS to the fullest. Join Ian Ramos, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity as they explain some ideal settings and ways to access JAWS features to improve your experience. Although this is a Part 2, you can still benefit even if you did not attend the previous session. We will quickly summarize the main points in Part 1. | Meeting ID: 839 0370 2793 | Passcode: 356314 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83903702793#,,,,*356314# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join the Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83903702793?pwd=QXZuNjdvelo4aVpMVnE5NUcxYnJ1dz09
12) Shopping With JAWS and Windows | Access Ingenuity
December 22nd 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | It's the holidays! You might still be looking for a last-minute gift. Perhaps you just want to know how a competent screen reader user would search for specific items. Join Ian Ramos and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity as they use many of the web browsing tips previously introduced to go shopping on a PC using JAWS. | Meeting ID: 832 9367 4055 | Passcode: 291237 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83293674055#,,,,*291237# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose):https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83293674055?pwd=Z2ZkNlpKK2liTWpDWmlOd2lDMkFQQT09
13) ATHEN (Access Technology Higher Education Network) 1st Annual "Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM) Accessibility: Starting with Math"
February 10th 2022 and February 11th 2022 | This virtual conference will take place on February 10th and 11th 2022. We are striving to create a diverse conference where experts can share their best practices, solutions, techniques, etc. for accessing and creating accessible STEM content in higher education. Join us! | Call for Proposal (Google Form) (Open now!) | Brush up by taking a sneak peek into the complexities in creating accessible STEM content in the YouTube video "Factors Involved in Making STEM Content Accessible" (10-minutes). | Conference Details, Dates, Registration, Cost:.https://athenpro.org/content/athen-virtual-conference
14) Axe-Con 2022
March 15th 2022 through March 17th 2022 | Axe-con is an open and inclusive digital accessibility conference that welcomes developers, designers, business users, and accessibility professionals of all experience levels to a new kind of accessibility conference focused on building, testing, and maintaining accessible digital experiences. Register for axe-con 2022, it's free! Join us for this three-day, multi-track conference to help further your digital accessibility efforts. Hear from the top experts in the field, for your area of interest with none of the noise. Learn more about why you should attend or get started by saving your seat by registering now:https://www.deque.com/axe-con/
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1) FOR SALE: One Humanware Braillenote Touch Plus 32 + Accessories
Listing Date: 11/25/2021 | Price: $2750.00 USD | Condition: Gently used. | Description: Like new. This Humanware Braillenote Touch Plus 32 just hasn't been used much, so selling for half price to a good home. It has it's accessories and is probably the best known notetaker / computer for the blind that can also be used as a 32 cell Braille display. | Contact: Joe via Email JS5lio021@gmail.com 📧️ or (425) 298-6834 📱️. |2) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
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Sponsor: Carroll Center for the Blind
➜ Don't Miss the Virtual Technology Fair for People Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired
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Sponsor Since: August 5th 2021
Website: https://carroll.org/ 🌐
Phone: (617) 969-6200 📱️
Fax: (617) 969-6204 ░Shop: https://carroll.org/store/ 🛒
Donate: https://carroll.org/donate ❤
Social: Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | LinkedIn | Instagram
About: The Carroll Center for the Blind is the foremost leader in vision rehabilitation services for individuals confronted by the challenges of vision loss. Our mission is to empower those who are blind or visually impaired to achieve independence and to lead a fulfilling life. Established in 1936, the renowned Carroll Center for the Blind has been serving those with vision impairment for over eight decades; we are known nationally as a premier Vision Rehabilitation Center. Located just outside of Boston on a sprawling campus in Newton, Massachusetts, we proudly serve ALL ages and ALL stages of vision loss. With the ongoing promise of improving the lives of people with vision-related problems, The Carroll Center for the Blind has pioneered many innovative services allowing people who are blind or have low vision to learn the skills to be independent in their homes, in class settings, and in their work places. Our services include vision rehabilitation, vocational and transition programs, assistive technology training, educational support, and recreation opportunities for individuals who are visually impaired of all ages. For over 80 years, the expertise of Carroll Center staff has provided help for thousands of blind and visually impaired persons with diverse opportunities for success and independent living.
Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions
➜ The 50% Introductory Rate for Scribe for Meetings is Coming to a Close!
https://pneumasolutions.com/scribe-for-meetings-promotion-expiring-soon/
Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ VisionAware Resources Including the Directory of Services
https://visionaware.org/
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/112520211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Coding is Easy and Accessible with Colby the Code & Go Robot Mouse
https://www.aph.org/product/accessible-code-and-go-mouse/
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ GuideLights And Gadgets
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: HIMS, Inc.
➜ Order Now! Get The Most Powerful Android Notetaker Available, the BrailleSense 6 From HIMS. It's Simply The Best.
https://hims-inc.com/product/braillesense-6/
Sponsor Since: September 30th 2021
Website: https://hims-inc.com/ 🌐
Shop All Products: https://hims-inc.com/shop-all-products/ 🛒
Phone: (512) 837-2000 📱️
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5R9NjA1nfWo
Sales Email: sales@hims-inc.com 📧️
Support Email: support@hims-inc.com 📧️
About: HIMS, Inc. is a global manufacturer and distributor that has provided braille, magnification and accessible healthcare devices since 1999.
Sponsor: Blind Mice Mega Mall
➜ DannyBoy Portable Smart Phone & Device Stand Save 20% Now $39.99
https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/bmm/shop/Item_Detail?itemid=5156439
Sponsor Since: September 23rd 2021
Website: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/ 🌐
Blind Mice Order Center Phone: (866) 922-8877 📱️
Blind Mice Order Center Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM CST/CDT (GMT-5) Monday through Friday
Mall Directory of Stores: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/bmm/shop/Directory 🛒
Join The Today's Cheese Newsletter: Join the Today's Cheese newsletter to get Members' Only sales & Unadvertised Specials from the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You can save money with these unadvertised specials! Send an email to: TodaysCheese+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
Blind Mice Swap Shop: Sell, Swap, and Buy. The Mice receive calls everyday asking if we buy or sell used or unwanted items. The Mice don't sell used products but to help our members, we created the Blind Mice Swap Shop! The Blind Mice Swap Shop is the place for Sellers, Traders, & Buyers to find each other! Do you ... have something you don't want anymore... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something you just don't use... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something new to sell... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Provide a service that might be helpful to other Blind and Visually Impaired folks... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Have an announcement about an upcoming event beneficial to the Blind & Visually Impaired Community... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Joining the Blind Mice Swap Shop is free and as easy as sending an email to: BlindMiceSwapShop+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
About: Welcome to Blind Mice Mega Mall! The Mall with the Blind In Mind! Blind Mice Mega Mall is designed for use with a screen reader and low vision software for visually impaired shoppers. Each store is an independent business owned / managed by a member of the Blind / Low Vision Community. Please browse & shop the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You will find great items and unique offerings from our merchants. You help the Blind Community every time you make a purchase from any of the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. Every purchase made at Blind Mice Mega Mall gives back to the Blind and Visually Impaired Community. Proceeds from sales fund the MouseHole Scholarship Program, the Cooking In The Dark Show and The Movie Vault. Blind Mice Mega Mall accepts American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, Checks, and Money Orders. Purchase Orders From State Agencies are also welcome.
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, November 18, 2021 - Volume 833 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, November 18, 2021 - Volume 833
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
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Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: A. T. Guys has the Tech Gadgets You Need for the Holidays; BlindShell 2, Versa Slate, Aftershokx, and More!
It's not too early to begin your holiday shopping for you or your loved ones, and we have the tech toys to fill those stockings. Plus, use coupon tidbits to get free shipping on orders of $79 or more through November 25th 2021. Introducing the BlindShell 2, an upgraded simple phone with tactile buttons, a headphone jack, and louder speaker. Powerful, yet simple to use. Get a free beep item locator with coupon 'tidbits'. Featuring the Versa Slates, paperless, braille slates great for taking quick notes or practicing braille. Check out the latest Aftershokz headset, the OpenComm featuring an improved noise-canceling microphone. Or our loudest Bluetooth speaker, the Stormbox Pro. Tag your everything with stickers, buttons, magnets, and clips from WayAround. We've also added wireless ear buds & braided charging cables. Check out our travel charger, USBC hub, or our folding Bluetooth keyboard. Visit atguys.com for all of the latest gadgets, and don't forget that coupon. Free shipping for U.S. customers. Visit:
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3) Sight Tech Global Agenda Announced
We're excited to roll out the main stage agenda. These 10 expertly moderated fireside and panel sessions capture a remarkable cross section of the work going on today at Apple, Microsoft, Google and Amazon, to name just four of the giants in the field. We will announce another half dozen breakout sessions in the coming days. Please register today. It's free, virtual and very screen-reader friendly:https://techcrunch.com/2021/11/10/sight-tech-global-agenda-announced/
4) JAWS Power Tip: Using the Word List Command | Freedom Scientific
You have all kinds of options to find something on a webpage or in a document. You can use JAWS Find, you could create PlaceMarkers on a webpage or in a document, but something I have grown to love is the Word List command:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/42.html
5) Enterprise Cloud-driven Document Remediation Now Available to Consumers
Pneuma Solutions uses its Augmented Remediation platform to get one step closer to equal access to information, communication, and entertainment for everyone with a print disability:https://pneumasolutions.com/introducing-scribe-for-personal-documents/
6) Windows 11 Training - dSurf
The JAWS training legend, Dan Clark, kicks off his own series of free training videos for Windows 11:https://dsurf.net/windows-11-training/
7) 4 Awesome Shortcut Keys for Navigating Windows That Most People Don't Know | YouTube - Thee Quin
In this video, I show you 4 awesome keyboard shortcuts that make navigating on Windows much faster:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OcuFjsn0wWw&t=11s
8) What Should A Blind Person Know About Using A Smart Phone Or Tablet With Speech? | YouTube - Insight4blind
Have you ever felt out-smarted by your smart phone? No worries. You're not alone. The phone seems to be the simplest thing that these little modern miracles can do. The power and the independence that you can enjoy with a smart phone or tablet is unlimited, especially for people with vision loss. However, if you need your mobile device to talk to you in order to use it, you need to understand the difference between artificial intelligence, screen-reader technology, and dictation. These are 3 very different features of your smart device that might get confusing when you're just getting started. Watch and share this video to learn how accessible mobile devices can be for people with all degrees of vision loss. No vision required:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SSzaaCANuGE
9) Game Accessibility Feature Tags are now Available on Microsoft Store for Xbox
Microsoft's Store on Xbox and Xbox.com now include accessibility tags for its games. Game publishers can also include links to additional accessibility information for their titles:https://news.xbox.com/en-us/2021/11/16/game-accessibility-feature-tags-now-available/
10) A Guide to the Accessibility Features in iOS 15
Janet Ingber covers all the accessibility improvements in iOS 15. She ultimately recommends upgrading:https://www.afb.org/aw/22/10/17719
11) Introduction to RoboBraille
Upon hearing of the new Scribe for Personal Documents, we at Tidbits wanted to confirm that RoboBraille is still active. It is:https://www.robobraille.org/us/introduction-to-robobraille/
12) Facebook And Oculus Detail How They'll Focus On Accessibility And VR
Can I Play That details accessibility features under consideration at Oculus:https://caniplaythat.com/2021/10/29/facebook-and-oculus-detail-how-theyll-focus-on-accessibility-and-vr/
13) Bose, Apple, Jabra: Direct-To-Consumer Hearing Aids - Reviewed
Well known mainstream tech companies are releasing hearing aids for those with mild to moderate hearing loss that are available straight over the counter. Read about this exciting innovation that promises to increase competition and lower prices:https://www.reviewed.com/accessibility/features/bose-apple-jabra-direct-consumer-hearing-aids
14) How To Use Assistive Touch On The Apple Watch
The new Assistive Touch feature in watchOS 8 is attracting a lot of attention, and with good reason. It's designed to enable access to Apple Watch features for those who can't use the touchscreen, or simply have their hands full. Check out this how-to:https://www.theverge.com/22778189/apple-watch-assistive-touch-accessibility
15) macOS Monterey Has A Serious Memory Leak Problem, And The Cause Has Been Found
Many macOS Monterey users have reported running out of memory and needing to restart frequently. While Apple has yet to release a fix, setting your mouse cursor back to the default may fix the issue:https://www.techrepublic.com/article/macos-monterey-has-a-serious-memory-leak-problem-and-the-cause-has-been-found/
16) Samsung Launches Stable One UI 4 (Android 12) Starting With The Galaxy S21
Hot off the heels of Google, the smartphone giant has started releasing Android 12 to eligible devices, starting with the S21:https://www.androidcentral.com/one-ui-4-android-12-stable-launch
17) Airbnb Improves Accessibility Search Filters for its Accommodations
Airbnb makes positive changes to its platform to help customers find more accessible accommodations:https://www.theverge.com/2021/11/10/22774180/airbnb-accessible-filters-accommodations-rentals
18) Top 3 Ways to Turn Off Animations in Windows 11
Those fancy animations in Windows may be visually distracting or unnecessary. Find out how to easily disable them for an increase in performance and battery life:https://www.guidingtech.com/top-ways-to-turn-off-animations-in-windows-11/
19) How to Run Your Own Secure, Portable PC From a USB Stick | Wired
Build a super-safe computer you can take anywhere:https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-run-tails-secure-portable-pc-usb-stick/
20) Some Echo Speakers Can Now Detect People
Ultrasound tech to detect motion comes to fourth-gen Echos and Echo Dot devices:https://www.theverge.com/2021/11/12/22779044/amazon-echo-speakers-ultrasound-people-detection
21) Mantis Q40 and Chameleon 20 Extended Warranties
APH, in partnership with HumanWare, is pleased to offer one and two-year extended warranties on the Mantis Q40TM and Chameleon 20TM! Through December 10th 2021 all Mantis Q40 and Chameleon 20 owners have the option to purchase an extended warranty for their braille display, even if the unit is already out of warranty. After December 10th 2021, extended warranties must be bought within 30 days of purchase of the unit which they are covering:https://www.aph.org/mantis-q40-and-chameleon-20-extended-warranties/
22) Google Unveils New AI App to Help People with Speech Impairments
New Google Project Relate app provides AI-powered speech synthesis for people with speech impairments:https://www.tomsguide.com/news/watch-google-unveils-new-ai-app-to-help-people-with-speech-impairments
23) Squinting Over A Small Font? 7 Ways To Magnify Your iPhone, iPad Or Mac Screen
This zoom magnification tool on iPhone and iPad puts an end to headaches from trying to read the small print on your device:https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/squinting-over-small-font-7-ways-to-magnify-your-iphone-ipad-or-mac-screen/
24) A New iPad Accessory Adds Assistive Eye Tracking
Tobii Dynavox's TD Pilot turns iPads with iPadOS 15 into a hands-free device controlled by eye movements:https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/a-new-ipad-accessory-adds-assistive-eye-tracking/#ftag=CADf328eec
25) Pin and Arrange Apps on the Taskbar in Windows 11 with JAWS | YouTube - dSurf
Did you know you can rearrange the buttons pinned on the Taskbar in Windows 11 using the keyboard? Why does it matter which apps are pinned to the Taskbar, and what difference does it make which one is first, second, etc.? Apps pinned to the Taskbar can be launched by pressing the WINDOWS key in combination with the numbers 1, 2, 3, etc. on the numbers row that represent the position of that app from left to right on the Taskbar:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Vw6LIyTgXo
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Hadley Provides Access to Practical Help for Visually Impaired Residents Across Rural America
More than 60 million people, or one in five Americans, live in rural areas of the country. Residents of rural communities face different challenges than those in urban areas, including lack of public transportation, making it difficult to access needed social services, assistance and in-person help. For those with low vision or blindness living in small town America, these challenges are compounded by their already vulnerable circumstances, with added restrictions brought about by the pandemic:https://www.wfmz.com/news/pr_newswire/pr_newswire_entertainment/hadley-provides-access-to-practical-help-for-visually-impaired-residents-across-rural-america/article_b873cd6b-cb7c-5263-bbff-255a59302213.html
2) Concerns Arise for the Development of Smart Cane to Assist the Blind | Stanford Daily
Stanford researchers developed a smart cane to help the visually impaired navigate their surroundings. While the cane was designed to offer improvements over traditional white canes, questions surrounding its usability have surfaced:https://www.stanforddaily.com/2021/11/14/concerns-arise-for-the-development-of-smart-cane-to-assist-the-blind/
3) Roots Food Group Launches Nonprofit To Bring Food Security To Visually Impaired Community
"Feeding the Blind" Promotes Vision Nutrition by Subsidizing Medically Tailored Meals for Blind and Low Vision Individuals:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/roots-food-group-launches-nonprofit-to-bring-food-security-to-visually-impaired-community-301423748.html
4) DOJ Files Lawsuit Against Uber for Charging Wait Time Fees to Passengers with Disabilities
This suit is for when riders need more time to get in an Uber vehicle, and presumably locate a vehicle as well because of a disability:https://www.microassist.com/digital-accessibility/doj-files-lawsuit-against-uber-for-charging-wait-time-fees-to-passengers-with-disabilities/
5) Ableism Is Embedded in Our Language. We Can Dismantle It.
Here is a good article with tips and examples on how to avoid using ableist language:https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/emersonmalone/ableism-language-disability
6) Self-Driving Cars for Blind and Visually Impaired People Could Radically Increase Their Independence
Right now, many automakers have projects to develop self-driving cars, with the "assumption that passengers will have full sight abilities." However, for blind and visually impaired people to benefit more from self-driving cars, modifications will need to be made:https://todayuknews.com/automobile/self-driving-cars-for-blind-and-visually-impaired-people-could-radically-increase-their-independence-motorbiscuit/
7) Goodmaps Makes Acquisition, Launches Outdoor Capabilities
Using mobile scanner technology and digital maps, GoodMaps has developed an accessible smartphone application, GoodMaps Explorer, that helps blind and visually-impaired people navigate indoor spaces. Those navigation capabilities have now been extended to the outdoors after the company acquired the Sendero GPS mobile apps from Aira and relaunched them under the name GoodMaps Outdoors:https://www.bizjournals.com/louisville/inno/stories/news/2021/11/15/goodmaps-outdoors.html
8) Instagram Adds TikTok-like Text-to-Speech and Voice Effects Tools to Reels | TechCrunch
Instagram added two features to Reels recently: text-to-speech and voice effects. These features are popular already on TikTok, but now, creators can use them on Instagram too. This marks yet another effort from Instagram to keep up with TikTok when it comes to short-form video, as Instagram offers big reels bonuses to incentivize creators:https://techcrunch.com/2021/11/11/instagram-adds-tiktok-like-text-to-speech-and-voice-effects-tools-to-reels/
9) The Pixel 6's Accessibility Features Make Me Hopeful for the Future of Smartphones | Gizmodo
With a faster processor and new software features, Google's new flagship phones are more accessible than ever — but still not perfect:https://gizmodo.com/the-pixel-6s-accessibility-features-make-me-hopeful-for-1847997736
10) This Inventor from Goa is Helping Visually-Impaired Read, Draw and Understand Geometry
Paul Dsouza, who has been building assistive devices and technologies for the visually impaired for 11 years, won the 'National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP)-Mphasis Universal Design Award' recently:https://www.news18.com/news/buzz/this-inventor-from-goa-is-helping-visually-impaired-read-draw-and-understand-geometry-4431320.html
11) Is Love is Blind Season 2 Coming in 2022?
It's about time for one of our favorite reality shows to come back to Netflix. Yes, we're talking about Love is Blind. It's been over a year since we saw singles mingling and getting to know one another from their pods. So, where is Love is Blind season 2?https://netflixlife.com/2021/11/16/love-is-blind-season-2-netflix-2022/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Hadley Presents: A Conversation with the Experts | 12 Favorite Tech Apps and Gadgets
November 12th 2021We sat down with several Hadley staff members and asked them about their favorite tech tips, apps, and gadgets. Whether you consider yourself a tech expert or novice, the group recommends a variety of high-tech and low-tech options that fit your comfort level and interests.:
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/12-favorite-tech-apps-and-gadgets
2) Blind Android Users 49 | Hardware Scanning
November 13th 2021 | In episode 32, we had spoken about using a network printer with your phone. This week we talk about using a flatbed or automatic document feeder or any hardware network scanner with your phone. We review the Braillesense 6 a Braille notetaker running Android from HIMS. We demo the app Eyecan, an all in 1 navigation / text scanning / many more features still to be added in the app. To listen to the podcast, please visit:https://blindandroidusers.com/category/bauposts/shownotes/
3) Mosen At Large 157
November 13th 2021 Is visual description a step too far, changes to JAWS Tandem, and the big reveal of Scribe from Pneuma Solutions:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/e142e0a6/is-visual-description-a-step-too-far-changes-to-jaws-tandem-and-the-big-reveal-ofscribe-from-pneuma-solutions
4) Eyes on Success 2147 Unexpected Path
November 17th 2021"Guiding Emily" was written by Barbara Hinske and describes the journey of a newly blinded woman with her first guide dog. Emily's story is continued in the newly released sequel "The Unexpected Path". Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Barbara about her new book, its inspiration, and what she learned when researching and writing both books:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202147.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Workshop on NFB-NEWSLINE | Florida Outreach Center for the Blind
November 18th 2021 | On Thursday, November 18th 2021, the Florida Outreach Center for the Blind will host a workshop on NFB-NEWSLINE, a free audio news service for anyone who is blind or visually impaired. Imagine a service where you can read hundreds of local and national newspapers, magazines, local store adds along with other daily publications. In addition, imagine a place where you can get tv listings for your TV provider? This is NFB Newsline sponsored by The National Federation of The Blind. The service is free and offers access to more than 500 publications, emergency weather alerts, job listings, and more via your telephone or electronic device. Please join The Florida Outreach Center for The Blind and our guest speaker, Russ Davis, who will tell you how to Sign Up for NFB-NEWSLINE and demonstrate this wonderful service. Participants will also have a chance to win a $25 door prize, but you must be present to win. | One tap mobile: +13126266799,,5616420005# | Dial Manually: +1 312 626 6799 | Meeting ID: 561 642 0005 | Join by clicking on:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5616420005
2) Fusion Suite 2022 with Eric Damery and Ben Knolles | Freedom Scientific
November 18th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Want to learn about all the new features and enhancements in Fusion Suite 2022? Join us Thursday, November 18th 2021 at 12:00 PM Eastern time for a live webinar, "Fusion Suite 2022 with Eric Damery and Ben Knolles":https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_OAu0O7VHRXO3yYgwCiTRbA
3) Proctoring with Read & Write | The Network of Assistive Technologists
November 19th 2021 | 12:30AM PT, 11:30 AM MT, 12:30PM CT, 1:30PM ET, 6:30PM GMT | Lisa Horner, Testing Specialist & Adaptive Technology Assistant at the Owen Sound Campus of Georgian College will be joined by Dan Shannon, Education Account Manager and Matthew Brown, Regional Sales Director - Canada, both from Texthelp. Join us as a Testing Specialist & Adaptive Technologist, along with the experts at Texthelp discuss and demo using Texthelp Read & Write for proctoring online and "paper" tests. Time for demonstrations and to learn about pairing Read & Write with Lanschool, and, of course there will be time for Q & A:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfHEMu0rEAXjLpyxATtrdS2ZwDtQ_v2KSVmwzxq7GZK61lfmA/viewform?usp=sf_link
4) Carroll Center For The Blind: 2021 Free Virtual Technology Fair
November 23rd 2021 | The Carroll Center for the Blind's Virtual Technology Fair is back! Supercharge your independence from the comfort of your living room, office or anywhere you can log on. Attend exciting and informative presentations, visit with assistive technology exhibitors in breakout rooms, and find the products and services you need to live as independently as possible. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the latest products for individuals who are visually impaired. Free and open to consumers, families, friends, and professionals — the Carroll Center for the Blind's Virtual Technology Fair is sure to impress! Have you registered yet? Register for the Virtual Technology Fair today:https://carroll.org/events/virtual-technology-fair-2021/
5) Assistive Technology Assessment | Access Ingenuity
December 1st 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Join Mark Schafer and Ian Ramos from Access Ingenuity as they discuss the process of an assistive technology assessment and why it is necessary. Meeting ID: 825 6238 1644 | Passcode: 598447 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,82562381644#,,,,*598447# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join the Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82562381644?pwd=a21CcG1VU0dkWHBrSlBsK3FEcDVxZz09
6) 2nd Annual Sight Tech Global 2021
December 1st & 2nd 2021 | 100% free. 100% virtual. Sight Tech Global is the first global, virtual conference dedicated to fostering discussion among technology pioneers on how rapid advances in AI and related technologies will fundamentally alter the landscape of assistive technology and accessibility. Registration is now open:https://sighttechglobal.com/
7) Managing Websites and Webpages With JAWS | Access Ingenuity
December 8th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Join Zhi Huang and Rachel Reeves from Access Ingenuity as they demonstrate ways to better manage your websites and webpages using your browser and JAWS. | Meeting ID: 817 5158 2526 | Passcode: 341540 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,81751582526#,,,,*341540# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join the Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81751582526?pwd=NWRVVUwwSWFQQzBjZVkrblYrY3dnZz09
8) SenseAbility! Using the BrailleSense 6 | An 8 Lesson Course for $112.00 USD from Hartgen Consultancy
December 8th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | The training course will be held over at least eight sessions starting in December 2021. Within each session, you will be able to ask questions relating to the topic being worked through. Broadly speaking, topics will include:http://hartgen.org/senseability
9) Structuring Accessible Forms | TPGi
December 14th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Creating accessible forms is the science of constructing form fields that provide the correct name, role, and state through the data entry experience. In this webinar, we examine how to: Create and label form fields of different types. Group related form fields, like radio buttons. Mark form fields as required. Handle input errors. Verify data integrity. Through code examples and testing with a screen reader, you'll learn how to create form fields that work for all your users. Register today:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-december-14-at-12pm-et-structuring-accessible-forms/
10) JAWS: Maximizing the Experience for You and Your Students Part 2 | Access Ingenuity
December 15th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Although the JAWS screen reader is a powerful program that provides many features and support for many applications, some individuals do not like JAWS. Unfortunately, a lot of the time, this is from not knowing some of the available tools and features and not having JAWS or Windows configured to utilize JAWS to the fullest. Join Ian Ramos, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity as they explain some ideal settings and ways to access JAWS features to improve your experience. Although this is a Part 2, you can still benefit even if you did not attend the previous session. We will quickly summarize the main points in Part 1. | Meeting ID: 839 0370 2793 | Passcode: 356314 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83903702793#,,,,*356314# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join the Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83903702793?pwd=QXZuNjdvelo4aVpMVnE5NUcxYnJ1dz09
11) Shopping With JAWS and Windows | Access Ingenuity
December 22nd 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | It's the holidays! You might still be looking for a last-minute gift. Perhaps you just want to know how a competent screen reader user would search for specific items. Join Ian Ramos and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity as they use many of the web browsing tips previously introduced to go shopping on a PC using JAWS. | Meeting ID: 832 9367 4055 | Passcode: 291237 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83293674055#,,,,*291237# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose):https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83293674055?pwd=Z2ZkNlpKK2liTWpDWmlOd2lDMkFQQT09
12) ATHEN (Access Technology Higher Education Network) 1st Annual "Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM) Accessibility: Starting with Math"
February 10th 2022 and February 11th 2022 | This virtual conference will take place on February 10th and 11th 2022. We are striving to create a diverse conference where experts can share their best practices, solutions, techniques, etc. for accessing and creating accessible STEM content in higher education. Join us! | Call for Proposal (Google Form) (Open now!) | Brush up by taking a sneak peek into the complexities in creating accessible STEM content in the YouTube video "Factors Involved in Making STEM Content Accessible" (10-minutes). | Conference Details, Dates, Registration, Cost:.https://athenpro.org/content/athen-virtual-conference
13) Axe-Con 2022
March 15th 2022 through March 17th 2022 | Axe-con is an open and inclusive digital accessibility conference that welcomes developers, designers, business users, and accessibility professionals of all experience levels to a new kind of accessibility conference focused on building, testing, and maintaining accessible digital experiences. Register for axe-con 2022, it's free! Join us for this three-day, multi-track conference to help further your digital accessibility efforts. Hear from the top experts in the field, for your area of interest with none of the noise. Learn more about why you should attend or get started by saving your seat by registering now:https://www.deque.com/axe-con/
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions
➜ The 50% Introductory Rate for Scribe for Meetings is Coming to a Close!
https://pneumasolutions.com/scribe-for-meetings-promotion-expiring-soon/
Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ VisionAware Resources Including the Information and Referral Line
https://visionaware.org/
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/111820211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ Accessible Pharmacy Joins Be My Eyes
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Coding is Easy and Accessible with Colby the Code & Go Robot Mouse
https://www.aph.org/product/accessible-code-and-go-mouse/
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ GuideLights And Gadgets
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: HIMS, Inc.
➜ Order Now! Get The Most Powerful Android Notetaker Available, the BrailleSense 6 From HIMS. It's Simply The Best.
https://hims-inc.com/product/braillesense-6/
Sponsor Since: September 30th 2021
Website: https://hims-inc.com/ 🌐
Shop All Products: https://hims-inc.com/shop-all-products/ 🛒
Phone: (512) 837-2000 📱️
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5R9NjA1nfWo
Sales Email: sales@hims-inc.com 📧️
Support Email: support@hims-inc.com 📧️
About: HIMS, Inc. is a global manufacturer and distributor that has provided braille, magnification and accessible healthcare devices since 1999.
Sponsor: Blind Mice Mega Mall
➜ DannyBoy Portable Smart Phone & Device Stand Save 20% Now $39.99
https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/bmm/shop/Item_Detail?itemid=5156439
Sponsor Since: September 23rd 2021
Website: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/ 🌐
Blind Mice Order Center Phone: (866) 922-8877 📱️
Blind Mice Order Center Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM CST/CDT (GMT-5) Monday through Friday
Mall Directory of Stores: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/bmm/shop/Directory 🛒
Join The Today's Cheese Newsletter: Join the Today's Cheese newsletter to get Members' Only sales & Unadvertised Specials from the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You can save money with these unadvertised specials! Send an email to: TodaysCheese+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
Blind Mice Swap Shop: Sell, Swap, and Buy. The Mice receive calls everyday asking if we buy or sell used or unwanted items. The Mice don't sell used products but to help our members, we created the Blind Mice Swap Shop! The Blind Mice Swap Shop is the place for Sellers, Traders, & Buyers to find each other! Do you ... have something you don't want anymore... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something you just don't use... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something new to sell... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Provide a service that might be helpful to other Blind and Visually Impaired folks... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Have an announcement about an upcoming event beneficial to the Blind & Visually Impaired Community... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Joining the Blind Mice Swap Shop is free and as easy as sending an email to: BlindMiceSwapShop+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
About: Welcome to Blind Mice Mega Mall! The Mall with the Blind In Mind! Blind Mice Mega Mall is designed for use with a screen reader and low vision software for visually impaired shoppers. Each store is an independent business owned / managed by a member of the Blind / Low Vision Community. Please browse & shop the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You will find great items and unique offerings from our merchants. You help the Blind Community every time you make a purchase from any of the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. Every purchase made at Blind Mice Mega Mall gives back to the Blind and Visually Impaired Community. Proceeds from sales fund the MouseHole Scholarship Program, the Cooking In The Dark Show and The Movie Vault. Blind Mice Mega Mall accepts American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, Checks, and Money Orders. Purchase Orders From State Agencies are also welcome.
Sponsor: Carroll Center for the Blind
➜ Don't Miss the Virtual Technology Fair for People Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired
https://bit.ly/3vBaUk2
Sponsor Since: August 5th 2021
Website: https://carroll.org/ 🌐
Phone: (617) 969-6200 📱️
Fax: (617) 969-6204 ░Shop: https://carroll.org/store/ 🛒
Donate: https://carroll.org/donate ❤
Social: Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | LinkedIn | Instagram
About: The Carroll Center for the Blind is the foremost leader in vision rehabilitation services for individuals confronted by the challenges of vision loss. Our mission is to empower those who are blind or visually impaired to achieve independence and to lead a fulfilling life. Established in 1936, the renowned Carroll Center for the Blind has been serving those with vision impairment for over eight decades; we are known nationally as a premier Vision Rehabilitation Center. Located just outside of Boston on a sprawling campus in Newton, Massachusetts, we proudly serve ALL ages and ALL stages of vision loss. With the ongoing promise of improving the lives of people with vision-related problems, The Carroll Center for the Blind has pioneered many innovative services allowing people who are blind or have low vision to learn the skills to be independent in their homes, in class settings, and in their work places. Our services include vision rehabilitation, vocational and transition programs, assistive technology training, educational support, and recreation opportunities for individuals who are visually impaired of all ages. For over 80 years, the expertise of Carroll Center staff has provided help for thousands of blind and visually impaired persons with diverse opportunities for success and independent living.
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|
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, November 11, 2021 - Volume 832 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, November 11, 2021 - Volume 832
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Join Us At Sight Tech Global To Learn About The Next Generation Of Accessible Navigation And Object Recognition Assistant
On December 1-2 at Sight Tech Global (a free, virtual event on advanced technology and accessibility for the blind and visually impaired), HumanWare's Vice President of Product Innovation will discuss our next generation of accessible navigation and object recognition assistants. We are currently developing a robust and accessible navigation and computer vision device, allowing users to plan trips, navigate in various environments, identify, and find objects. With its ease of use, advanced technology, satellite positioning systems, and artificial intelligence, the device will help users live more independently and participate more actively in today's world. It will be HumanWare's most powerful navigation device since the launch of the original Trekker pioneer in 2003. In this panel, Dr. Massé will present the features of the product as well as our long-term vision and the technology behind this exciting upcoming product. Be sure to join us at Sight Tech Global for this very important session:
https://sighttechglobal.com/
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) The Secret Way to Easily Circumvent Most Internet Paywalls in a Pinch: (9.2% of all clicks.)https://medium.com/web-design-web-developer-magazine/the-secret-way-to-easily-circumvent-most-internet-paywalls-in-a-pinch-90ffd7fcc14e
B.) 7 Best Free OCR Software Apps to Convert Images Into Text: (8.3% of all clicks.)
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/top-5-free-ocr-software-tools-to-convert-your-images-into-text-nb/
C.) With The "Artificial Retina", Blind People Can See Again Even Without Using Their Eyes: (5.7% of all clicks.)
https://www.mediarunsearch.co.uk/with-the-artificial-retina-blind-people-can-see-again-even-without-using-their-eyes/
D.) How to Start Voice Typing on Windows 11 | Makeuseof.com: (5.2% of all clicks.)
https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-start-voice-typing-on-windows-11/
E.) Amazon Fire TV - Accessibility Features: (4.8% of all clicks.)
https://www.amazon.com/b?ie=UTF8&node=23477585011
2) Top Tech Tidbits Says Thank You And Farewell To Sponsor Be My Eyes | One Sponsorship Package Currently Available
Please join all of us here at Tidbits in wishing a fine farewell to Be My Eyes who has so very graciously supported the distribution of Top Tech Tidbits for the last year. If you look forward to Tidbits every week, it is sponsors like Be My Eyes that make it possible. If you would like to join us in supporting Tidbits while enjoying some really incredible marketing benefits, please reach out to our publisher today at: publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️. Or learn more at:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
3) Top Tech Tidbits Approaches 7,000 Active Subscribers Worldwide
The Top Tech Tidbits subscriber list has always been a positive growth list. Meaning that the list has always experienced growth, week over week, since its inception in 2004. But something changed in June of 2020 as we transitioned the publication to a sponsorship model and began to make small changes to the format of the publication. Changes to the heading scheme to make jumping between Tidbits effortless. Breaking information out into sections in order to better focus the different types of information that Tidbits readers were searching for. And expanding the breadth of AT resources that Top Tech Tidbits covers. All of these changes together have seen the Top Tech Tidbits subscriber list grow faster than we have ever seen it grow before. Since the transition, on average, approximately 15-25 new subscribers have joined the list each week, and approximately 4-6 susbcribers have left the list each week. This positive gain, week over week, has the Top Tech Tidbits subscriber list currently sitting at 6,839 active subscribers. Should these gains continue we forecast that Top Tech Tidbits will reach 7,000 active subscribers worldwide within the next 3 months. We could not be more pleased that these changes have resulted in so many more people reading the publication each week. We will continue to listen to your feedback and use it to shape Tidbits well into the future. If you're interested to know from where in the world people are reading Tidbits you can now review Subscriber Location Data on the Top Tech Tidbits website at:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/about.html#subscriber-location-data.
4) 3 Inspiring Audiobooks for People with Disabilities by Anna Cristina Carter, Guest Contributor, Top Tech Tidbits
This article was written exclusively for Top Tech Tidbits courtesy of Author Anna Cristina Carter. Please join us in sharing it far and wide. Technology has done wonders for accessibility. Thanks to the internet, people with disabilities can easily find platforms that suit their needs and interests. But the low-vision community isn't the only group that can benefit from audio-focused mediums, and the podcast isn't the only audio-focused medium out there. People who want their entertainment structured can listen to audiobooks, which are professionally recorded readings of existing texts, such as novels and non-fiction books. Below, we've listed 3 different audiobooks written for, by, or about people with disabilities:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/41.html
5) Blind in the Metaverse — Making Web3.0 Accessible from the Beginning | Tidbit Submission
The argument that not everyone has to enter the metaverse or have a digital life still remains true but creating a digital world or universe that does not make it enjoyable for an entire community to enter is not right. The metaverse should be so accessible that a blind person has the right to refuse to enter because of personal choice not because of usability issues:https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/blind-metaverse-making-web30-accessible-from-walborn-ferraro/
6) Introducing the NRTC Podcast | Employment Insights
The National Research and Training Center on Blindness and Low Vision has launched a podcast series for individuals with blindness or who have low vision. The podcast series project, Employment Insights, is meant to contribute to the NRTC's mission to enhance employment outcomes for people with B/LV. Each episode focuses on encouraging, inspiring, and informing people about the skills they need for employment. On each episode, they invite a guest who is blind or has low vision to join them to talk about their achievements, challenges, and insights through their employment journey. Topics include lessons learned from failures on the job, job search tips, and success stories of how individuals have maintained and advanced in employment:https://www.ntac.blind.msstate.edu/consumers/webinars-podcasts
7) Chromebook Select-To-Speak Upgrade Adds More Human-Sounding Voices
This feature is part of Chrome OS's built-in screen reader but with the added bonus of speaking out only the text that's currently selected. With this month's update, the voice that speaks out those words will sound more natural, complete with the various accents found in 25 currently supported languages. Google claims that it makes it easier to follow along and comprehend text, even for those with dyslexia:https://www.slashgear.com/chromebook-select-to-speak-upgrade-adds-more-human-sounding-voices-14695259/
8) The Complete Guide to Windows 11: New Features, Requirements, and Release Date
Microsoft recently announced the release of a much-anticipated update to their flagship operating system in the form of Windows 11. Six years after the release of Windows 10, the new update provides a visual update and adds a host of multitasking, gaming, and security features:https://vpnoverview.com/privacy/devices/the-complete-guide-to-windows-11/
9) Writing Effective Image Descriptions or "Alt Text" by American Foundation for the Blind
So, you found the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines from the W3C and you're committed to making your website as accessible and user-friendly as possible. Fantastic! Let's talk about one of the most elementary aspects of a site that contributes to accessibility for users of assistive technology:https://www.afb.org/consulting/afb-accessibility-resources/improving-your-web-site
10) Apple and Amazon ML/AI Leads to Speak on Accessibility at Sight Tech Global 2021
Sensors and data are proliferating. Whether it's from a phone, a car or smart home devices, astonishing amounts of data fuel the work of researchers and product developers conceiving new products and experiences. Among those who stand to benefit, even more than they already do, are people who are blind or visually disabled:https://techcrunch.com/2021/11/05/apple-and-amazon-ml-ai-leads-to-speak-on-accessibility-at-sight-tech-global-2021/
11) New Technique Could Enhance Films for Visually Impaired
Researchers at the University of York have developed a new way for visually impaired audiences to experience and enjoy films. Traditional Audio Description (AD) consists of an audio track in the third person that provides information on the visual layer of a film or television programme. The current use of traditional AD can sometimes overlap with other sound elements in the soundtrack, such as music and sound effects. Under the new format, verbal descriptions are minimised and sound design is used as the main vehicle for accessibility, through a combination of additional sound effects, 3D sound, and first-person narration:https://www.technologynetworks.com/neuroscience/news/new-technique-could-enhance-films-for-visually-impaired-355364
12) NVDA 2021.3 Beta2 Available for Testing
Beta2 of NVDA 2021.3 is now available for download and testing:https://www.nvaccess.org/post/nvda-2021-3beta2/
13) Open-Source Cane Borrows Autonomous Vehicle Tech for Visually-Impaired and Costs $400 to Build
A standard white cane remains an essential aid for getting out for a number of visually impaired people, but to date, it also has not really offered a lot of affordable modern updates, which is something that a number of researchers want to change. It was noted that a certain cane borrows autonomous vehicle tech for certain visually-impaired individuals but costs $400:https://www.techtimes.com/articles/266763/20211017/open-source-cane-borrows-autonomous-vehicle-tech-visually-impaired-costs.htm
14) 40 Cells To Empowerment: A Comparison Of Five Braille Displays To Fortify Your Success | By Scott Davert, Coordinator: Technology, Research and Innovation Center, Helen Keller National Center for Deafblind Youths and Adults
There are several 40 cell braille devices on the market providing different feature sets at varying price points. At the time of this writing, these displays range in price from $1,399 to $3,195. As the monetary investment is seldom trivial even on the lowest end, it is important to find the ideal device to fit a person's specific circumstances. To help decide which is best for your specific needs, this article will provide the following information for each device:https://www.helenkeller.org/hknc/40-Cell-Braille-Devices
15) Mantis and Chameleon Software Updates
Some major features that are coming to both displays include a global clipboard, bookmarks in the Editor, and a blinking cursor. Bluetooth fixes and enhancements, quicker Library navigation, improved Braille Profile configuration, improvements to auto scroll, and new benefits to the Online Libraries are among the other changes:https://www.aph.org/mantis-and-chameleon-software-improvements/
16) Upcoming Feature Spotlight: HID Braille Specification
NVDA's In Process is out. It highlights the HID Braille Specification coming to NVDA. This should make plugging in a supported braille display and getting basic functionality possible for NVDA users:https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-3rd-november-2021/
17) Microsoft Announces Windows 11 SE, A New Chrome OS Competitor
This version of Windows is specific for the primary education market. No word yet on whether it will support 3rd-party assistive technologies:https://www.theverge.com/2021/11/9/22771742/microsoft-windows-11-se-features-release-date
18) Google Is Taking Sign-Ups For Relate, A Voice Assistant That Recognizes Impaired Speech
Google launched a beta app today that people with speech impairments can use as a voice assistant while contributing to a multiyear research effort to improve Google's speech recognition. The goal is to make Google Assistant, as well as other features that use speech to text and speech to speech, more inclusive of users with neurological conditions that affect their speech:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc_9fFSD4IAqHaePFebXMBOUML8rEFyZD4DNxG5LaZhpW5QXQ/viewform
19) Ask A Trainer: Getting Started With Accessibility For E-Learning | (Td.Org)
Designing accessible online courses can be challenging. An experienced eLearning developer offers simple steps to get you started:https://www.td.org/atd-blog/ask-a-trainer-getting-started-with-accessibility-for-e-learning
20) Apple MacOS 12 Monterey Review: The Best Is Yet To Come | The Verge
MacOS Monterey has been out for a couple of weeks and the reviews are rolling in. The well-known team at the Verge talk about their experience so far:https://www.theverge.com/22765988/apple-macos-12-monterey-review-macbook-pro-air-imac-m1
21) 11 Essential Windows 11 Shortcuts You Need To Know | Tom's Guide (TomsGuide.com)
Speed up your Windows 11 experience and become a true keyboard ninja with these must-know shortcuts:https://www.tomsguide.com/news/11-essential-windows-11-shortcuts-you-need-to-know
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Why Automated Tools Alone Can't Make Your Website Accessible and Legally Compliant
This article reminds us that automated AI based solutions are not yet sufficient for ensure accessibility in the digital space:https://www.forbes.com/sites/gusalexiou/2021/10/28/why-automated-tools-alone-cant-make-your-website-accessible-and-legally-compliant/?sh=5e55cc6364e2
2) How Companies Can Make Their Remote Working Inclusive For The Deaf And Blind
This article gives some tech tips for employers to make the workplace more inclusive for employees with sensory impairments:https://www.cnbc.com/2021/09/20/how-to-make-remote-working-inclusive-for-the-deaf-and-blind.html
3) In Living Color Audio Description Looks Past People of Color
This article argues for more inclusive audio descriptions in movies and television:https://www.bitchmedia.org/article/color-blind-audio-description-inaccessibility
4) Introducing Updates To Make It Easier For Guests With Disabilities To Travel
Airbnb is now manually vetting accessibility features and, at the same time, making it easier to find accessible lodgings:https://news.airbnb.com/accessibility-review/
5) With Disability-Friendly Packaging, Olay Aims for Greater Accessibility
Olay North America said that it is rolling out a new easy-open lid featuring a winged cap that's simpler to grip. The package also includes a high-contrast label and Braille text:https://www.disabilityscoop.com/2021/11/09/with-disability-friendly-packaging-olay-aims-for-greater-accessibility/29584/
6) Yahoo Sports' Documentary Short Features All Blind Fantasy League
Yahoo Sports is proud to announce the debut of a short documentary produced by Yahoo about its All Blind Fantasy League (ABFL) � a group of sports fanatics who use assistive technology like screen readers with the Yahoo Fantasy app to connect with their passion for fantasy in a fully accessible way:https://news.yahoo.com/yahoo-sports-documentary-short-features-all-blind-fantasy-league-010106205.html
7) Teaching Visually Impaired Students - And Making Class Materials More Accessible For Everyone At The Same Time
Hannah Thompson, a partially blind academic, offers six tips for ensuring an inclusive learning environment. If you're a screen reader user, please note that you may get a pop-up asking if you would like to register that is difficult to dismiss. This will depend on your browser's settings. The developers have been notified of the issue. In the meantime, you can avoid the registration prompt if necessary by opening the link below in a private / incognito window:https://www.timeshighereducation.com/campus/teaching-visually-impaired-students-and-making-class-materials-more-accessible-everyone-same
8) We're Reimagining Low Vision Technology | APH
APH has a long-term strategy for developing low vision devices that adapt to each user's needs — not the other way around:https://www.aph.org/were-reimagining-low-vision-technology/
9) The 9 Smart Devices You Should Have In Your Room
The smart home is a reality today, specially oriented to the living room and kitchen with multiple devices that can help us to make these two rooms work in a much more functional way:https://cvbj.biz/the-9-smart-devices-you-should-have-in-your-room-technology.html
10) The World's First Needle-Free Diabetes Test
Australian researchers have developed a needle-free diabetes test that measures glucose levels from saliva — not blood. It could be ready for consumers as soon as 2023:https://www.freethink.com/health/diabetes-test
11) Visual Art For The Visually Impaired: Philly Museum Tests Out New Ways To Experience Paintings
Tactile graphics are reproductions of paintings made on heavy cardstock embossed with different textures, representing various elements of the image composition. Those textures are meant to help visitors "see" the paintings through their fingertips:https://www.phillytrib.com/lifestyle/visual-art-for-the-visually-impaired-philly-museum-tests-out-new-ways-to-experience-paintings/article_93437203-d8c9-5a94-8d58-75be9a70b384.html
12) Forza Horizon 5 Also Promoted For Accessibility, Playable Even By The Blind
Forza Horizon 5 is not only excellent from a technical and gameplay point of view, but also from an accessibility point of view, so much so that it received a very positive opinion from Steve Saylor, a blind player who specifically deals with accessibility problems in video games. The opinion of Saylor is quite clear: "Forza Horizon 5 is the first racing game where I was able to fulfill the dream of driving at 200mph, as I never could in reality. It's the most accessible chapter of the Forza Horizon franchise and XBox games in general." Saylor also posted a full review to explain the level of accessibility of Forza Horizon 5:https://d1softballnews.com/forza-horizon-5-also-promoted-for-accessibility-playable-even-by-the-blind-nerd4-life/
13) Olay Developed an Easy-Open Moisturizer Lid for People With Limited Mobility
After receiving customer complaints about how difficult the Regenerist Moisturizer lids are to open, the brand is introducing a more accessible alternative:https://www.allure.com/story/olay-easy-open-lid-launch
14) Amazon Brings Alexa to Senior Living Communities and Healthcare Systems with Alexa Smart Properties
Senior Living and Healthcare providers can now easily deploy Alexa experiences designed to keep residents and patients connected, informed, and entertained — and improve care team productivity:https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211025005336/en/
15) Eyedaptic Launches EYE4, An All-New Version Of Its Augmented Reality (AR) Glasses To Address The Increasing Incidence Of Vision Loss In The US
Hands-free visual aid with integrated hand-held magnifier capability uses the power of Augmented Reality and cellular phone technology to address the growing unmet need within the low vision community:https://www.prweb.com/releases/eyedaptic_launches_eye4_an_all_new_version_of_its_augmented_reality_ar_glasses_to_address_the_increasing_incidence_of_vision_loss_in_the_us/prweb18194142.htm
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Mosen At Large 156
November 6th 2021 Part 2 of our Chromebook tutorial, Amazon removes some email functionality from Alexa, a radio app for your Apple Watch and more:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/ac861ab8/part-2-of-our-chromebook-tutorial-amazon-removes-some-email-functionality-from-alexa-a-radio-app-for-your-apple-watch-and-more
2) Blind Android Users 48 | It's Shopping Time
November 6th 2021 | Checkout Part 1 of Pixel 6 Pro Review at: https://tinyurl.com/nwuhcpr8. Ccheck out Part 2 at: https://tinyurl.com/4wwrpzjc. As holiday season is approaching, we decided to talk all about shopping apps. We demoed Amazon and eBay apps. We answered the most asked question in the community, does Android have a good RSS reader? In Talkback highlights we show you how to find links or phone numbers in messages and activate them. To listen to the podcast, please visit:https://blindandroidusers.com/category/bauposts/shownotes/
3) Eyes on Success 2146 Running with Google Project Guideline
November 10th 2021Google's "Project Guideline" is an early stage research project aimed at enabling those with vision loss to run independently. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Bill Ma, director of IT and operations and Jessy DiNapoli, manager of admissions at Guiding Eyes for the Blind about how their blind CEO, Thomas Panek, has used the app to run on his own:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%201246.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Meet the RUBY 10 Video Magnifier-A Versatile, Low Vision Solution for Everyday Living Activities | Freedom Scientific
November 11th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Our RUBY video magnifiers have become some of the most popular low vision products on the market today, and we're so excited to announce the newest addition: the RUBY 10! The RUBY 10 video magnifier features a large, 10-inch touchscreen display and three dedicated cameras to help you with your everyday tasks. Use the RUBY to magnify magazines, photos, letters, labels, and other fine print. A swing-out arm allows you to view items in your hand and write. Enable full-page OCR on the speech model when the arm is extended. With a touch of a button, you can scan pages and have them read aloud to you. The third camera is dedicated to seeing objects at a short distance, such as signs and menus on a wall. Join Mike Wood and Michelle Williams as they introduce the RUBY 10 and demonstrate its ease of use and unique viewing modes. For example: ColorSight +TM is a feature that addresses color blindness by shifting specific colors to assist color differentiation in real-time. Glare GuardTM attempts to maximize comfort during long-term use by minimizing pain from light sensitivity. This feature reduces the wavelengths of light associated with such pain. EdgeScribeTM edge enhancement modes attempt to improve object recognition by removing visual clutter. AptiviewTM adjusts the contrast in different parts of the image, which could improve the viewing experience in more lighting conditions than previously possible:https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_N3WJbUe5SIOhZsv6wwOBQg
2) Room to Grow: Progressing a Student Through MATT Connect's Interfaces | APH
November 12th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Ready. Set. Grow! The MATT Connect has the capacity to evolve with your student through Basic, Standard and Advanced Interfaces. In this webinar, we'll compare the user interfaces and provide resources on when to advance a student through each interface:https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_dOx3f-OPQaaSyYZoX_PCtg
3) Accessing Higher Ground Accessible Media, Web and Technology Conference by Association on Higher Education And Disability (AHEAD)
November 15th 2021 Through November 19th 2021 | Presented and hosted by AHEAD, Accessing Higher Ground is conducted in collaboration with ATHEN:https://accessinghigherground.org/
4) Using Windows 11 with a Screen Reader by Microsoft
November 17th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 8PM GMT | Jeff Bishop, Program Manager, Windows Engineering. Anne Taylor, Program Manager, Accessibility Team. Brett Humphrey, Program Manager, Teams Engineering. We are excited to share how we are empowering screen reader users to achieve more with what's coming in Windows 11. This webinar will focus on a broad overview of accessibility experiences in Windows 11. This includes new Start Menu interactions, a new Windows Settings experience, an all-new chat experience with your friends and family and more. New Windows hotkeys will also be introduced for things like Quick Settings, Notifications and others. Many of these features will be demoed using Narrator and third-party screen readers to give you a feel for the all new Windows 11 after you upgrade:https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=v4j5cvGGr0GRqy180BHbRxkCFbE8eohLlKeYJpcMV_BUM0dLREdQRjc4SjVPTFFVTUo2NkJDQjFVWi4u&wdLOR=cC2A08E94-B6B3-4D58-A1E9-E2A1EC1ACF56
5) New Braille Productivity Features While Working With Windows, JAWS, and the Focus Braille Displays | Access Ingenuity
November 17th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity as they explain the advantages of the new firmware upgrade for the Focus 5th generation braille displays, and introduce the new ElEdit application to allow you to increase your productivity with braille and print files on Windows. Learning Outcomes: Explain the new features of the firmware upgrade for the Focus 5th generation braille displays including turning on and off word wrap, turning off the feature requiring a pin to connect to Bluetooth devices, one-handed mode, Etc. Demonstrate how to get the upgrade and how to perform the firmware upgrade itself. Introduce the new ElEdit app for Windows and JAWS allowing the user to finally read BRF files both in braille and speech while using Windows! Explore additional features of the ElEdit app including the ability to quickly translate from braille to print, print to braille, print the document, emboss a document, send a document to Microsoft Word, and more! | Meeting ID: 863 6137 8742 | Passcode: 881387 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,86361378742#,,,,*881387# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86361378742?pwd=TE9hMUpOU2pZT3JYZHlqVkt4RCtldz09
6) Fusion Suite 2022 with Eric Damery and Ben Knolles | Freedom Scientific
November 18th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Want to learn about all the new features and enhancements in Fusion Suite 2022? Join us Thursday, November 18th 2021 at 12:00 PM Eastern time for a live webinar, "Fusion Suite 2022 with Eric Damery and Ben Knolles":https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_OAu0O7VHRXO3yYgwCiTRbA
7) Carroll Center For The Blind: 2021 Free Virtual Technology Fair
November 23rd 2021 | The Carroll Center for the Blind's Virtual Technology Fair is back! Supercharge your independence from the comfort of your living room, office or anywhere you can log on. Attend exciting and informative presentations, visit with assistive technology exhibitors in breakout rooms, and find the products and services you need to live as independently as possible. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the latest products for individuals who are visually impaired. Free and open to consumers, families, friends, and professionals — the Carroll Center for the Blind's Virtual Technology Fair is sure to impress! Have you registered yet? Register for the Virtual Technology Fair today:https://carroll.org/events/virtual-technology-fair-2021/
8) 2nd Annual Sight Tech Global 2021
December 1st & 2nd 2021 | 100% free. 100% virtual. Sight Tech Global is the first global, virtual conference dedicated to fostering discussion among technology pioneers on how rapid advances in AI and related technologies will fundamentally alter the landscape of assistive technology and accessibility. Registration is now open:https://sighttechglobal.com/
9) SenseAbility! Using the BrailleSense 6 | An 8 Lesson Course for $112.00 USD from Hartgen Consultancy
December 8th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | The training course will be held over at least eight sessions starting in December 2021. Within each session, you will be able to ask questions relating to the topic being worked through. Broadly speaking, topics will include:http://hartgen.org/senseability
10) Structuring Accessible Forms | TPGi
December 14th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Creating accessible forms is the science of constructing form fields that provide the correct name, role, and state through the data entry experience. In this webinar, we examine how to: Create and label form fields of different types. Group related form fields, like radio buttons. Mark form fields as required. Handle input errors. Verify data integrity. Through code examples and testing with a screen reader, you'll learn how to create form fields that work for all your users. Register today:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-december-14-at-12pm-et-structuring-accessible-forms/
11) ATHEN (Access Technology Higher Education Network) 1st Annual "Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM) Accessibility: Starting with Math"
February 10th 2022 and February 11th 2022 | This virtual conference will take place on February 10th and 11th 2022. We are striving to create a diverse conference where experts can share their best practices, solutions, techniques, etc. for accessing and creating accessible STEM content in higher education. Join us! | Call for Proposal (Google Form) (Open now!) | Brush up by taking a sneak peek into the complexities in creating accessible STEM content in the YouTube video "Factors Involved in Making STEM Content Accessible" (10-minutes). | Conference Details, Dates, Registration, Cost:.https://athenpro.org/content/athen-virtual-conference
12) Axe-Con 2022
March 15th 2022 through March 17th 2022 | Axe-con is an open and inclusive digital accessibility conference that welcomes developers, designers, business users, and accessibility professionals of all experience levels to a new kind of accessibility conference focused on building, testing, and maintaining accessible digital experiences. Register for axe-con 2022, it's free! Join us for this three-day, multi-track conference to help further your digital accessibility efforts. Hear from the top experts in the field, for your area of interest with none of the noise. Learn more about why you should attend or get started by saving your seat by registering now:https://www.deque.com/axe-con/
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1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Cyclone Braille Embosser for Text or Graphics
Listing Date: 10/21/2021 | Price: $1,501.00 USD | Condition: Gently used. | Description: Lightweight, single-sided high quality embosser with speeds up to 60 characters per second. Includes Firebird Software Suite; Firebird Graphics Editor that allows you to produce Braille graphics in 12.5 and 17 DPI Flashdrive with manuals & setup guide. | Contact: Email karenxsantiago@msn.com 📧️ or (508) 854-1630 📱️. |2) FOR SALE: One Dell G7 7500 Laptop
Listing Date: 10/21/2021 | Price: $855.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Lightning fast, current Windows 10 64 bit, Jaws 2021 installed with no authorization. NVDA upon request. 15.6 inch display, Intel Core i7 at 2.6 Ghz, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD & power adapter. Retails for $1200.00. | Contact: Email karenxsantiago@msn.com 📧️ or (508) 854-1630 📱️. |3) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ APH ConnectCenter Resources: Holiday Gifts for Children and Adults Who are Blind and Visually Impaired
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/111120211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ Accessible Pharmacy Joins Be My Eyes
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Coding is Easy and Accessible with Colby the Code & Go Robot Mouse
https://www.aph.org/product/accessible-code-and-go-mouse/
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ GuideLights And Gadgets
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: HIMS, Inc.
➜ Order Now! Get The Most Powerful Android Notetaker Available, the BrailleSense 6 From HIMS. It's Simply The Best.
https://hims-inc.com/product/braillesense-6/
Sponsor Since: September 30th 2021
Website: https://hims-inc.com/ 🌐
Shop All Products: https://hims-inc.com/shop-all-products/ 🛒
Phone: (512) 837-2000 📱️
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5R9NjA1nfWo
Sales Email: sales@hims-inc.com 📧️
Support Email: support@hims-inc.com 📧️
About: HIMS, Inc. is a global manufacturer and distributor that has provided braille, magnification and accessible healthcare devices since 1999.
Sponsor: Blind Mice Mega Mall
➜ Modified Talking Black & Decker Toaster Oven Factory Directfrom E T S! Save $50 & Free U.S. Shipping
https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/bmm/shop/Item_Detail?itemid=5447225
Sponsor Since: September 23rd 2021
Website: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/ 🌐
Blind Mice Order Center Phone: (866) 922-8877 📱️
Blind Mice Order Center Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM CST/CDT (GMT-5) Monday through Friday
Mall Directory of Stores: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/bmm/shop/Directory 🛒
Join The Today's Cheese Newsletter: Join the Today's Cheese newsletter to get Members' Only sales & Unadvertised Specials from the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You can save money with these unadvertised specials! Send an email to: TodaysCheese+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
Blind Mice Swap Shop: Sell, Swap, and Buy. The Mice receive calls everyday asking if we buy or sell used or unwanted items. The Mice don't sell used products but to help our members, we created the Blind Mice Swap Shop! The Blind Mice Swap Shop is the place for Sellers, Traders, & Buyers to find each other! Do you ... have something you don't want anymore... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something you just don't use... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something new to sell... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Provide a service that might be helpful to other Blind and Visually Impaired folks... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Have an announcement about an upcoming event beneficial to the Blind & Visually Impaired Community... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Joining the Blind Mice Swap Shop is free and as easy as sending an email to: BlindMiceSwapShop+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
About: Welcome to Blind Mice Mega Mall! The Mall with the Blind In Mind! Blind Mice Mega Mall is designed for use with a screen reader and low vision software for visually impaired shoppers. Each store is an independent business owned / managed by a member of the Blind / Low Vision Community. Please browse & shop the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You will find great items and unique offerings from our merchants. You help the Blind Community every time you make a purchase from any of the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. Every purchase made at Blind Mice Mega Mall gives back to the Blind and Visually Impaired Community. Proceeds from sales fund the MouseHole Scholarship Program, the Cooking In The Dark Show and The Movie Vault. Blind Mice Mega Mall accepts American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, Checks, and Money Orders. Purchase Orders From State Agencies are also welcome.
Sponsor: Carroll Center for the Blind
➜ Don't Miss the Virtual Technology Fair for People Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired
https://bit.ly/3vBaUk2
Sponsor Since: August 5th 2021
Website: https://carroll.org/ 🌐
Phone: (617) 969-6200 📱️
Fax: (617) 969-6204 ░Shop: https://carroll.org/store/ 🛒
Donate: https://carroll.org/donate ❤
Social: Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | LinkedIn | Instagram
About: The Carroll Center for the Blind is the foremost leader in vision rehabilitation services for individuals confronted by the challenges of vision loss. Our mission is to empower those who are blind or visually impaired to achieve independence and to lead a fulfilling life. Established in 1936, the renowned Carroll Center for the Blind has been serving those with vision impairment for over eight decades; we are known nationally as a premier Vision Rehabilitation Center. Located just outside of Boston on a sprawling campus in Newton, Massachusetts, we proudly serve ALL ages and ALL stages of vision loss. With the ongoing promise of improving the lives of people with vision-related problems, The Carroll Center for the Blind has pioneered many innovative services allowing people who are blind or have low vision to learn the skills to be independent in their homes, in class settings, and in their work places. Our services include vision rehabilitation, vocational and transition programs, assistive technology training, educational support, and recreation opportunities for individuals who are visually impaired of all ages. For over 80 years, the expertise of Carroll Center staff has provided help for thousands of blind and visually impaired persons with diverse opportunities for success and independent living.
Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions
➜ The 50% Introductory Rate for Scribe for Meetings is Coming to a Close!
https://pneumasolutions.com/scribe-for-meetings-promotion-expiring-soon/
Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, November 4, 2021 - Volume 831 |
This Week's Featured Advertisement: BlindMiceMegaMall.com! The Mall with the Blind In Mind! Don't Lose Your Tail - Save $$$!
BlindMiceMegaMall.com is designed for use with screen reading & ZoomText software. Every store is owned by visually impaired / blind folks. Interested in opening a store? For details call (866) 922-8877 📱️. Our Merchants | Blind Mice Mart. Adaptive Products. Great Cookware & more. | Blind BookStop. Braille & Digital books for you. Save 35% til Dec 7th. | On The Go. Be the best dog guide user you can be. | Talking Thermostats. VIP 3000 Talking Thermostats! Free Shipping. | Ultimate Tech Mods. Increase internal memory in your 2nd Gen Stream. | Your Photo! Custom Gifts. Turn your photo into a cherished keepsake! | DannyBoy Stands. Make scanning & imaging easy. | MiceILA. Adaptive products for the Low Vision & Blind. | E T S. Talking Toaster Oven and Talking Microwaves. | Journeys Eternal Essence. Brighten your Day. | Safety Tech. Personal Safety products. Alarms. Stun Guns & more. | Body Scentz. Name Brand Designer Colognes & Perfumes. Discount Prices! | Access Solutions. DecTalk & TripleTalk External Speech Synthesizers. | Have a MICE Day!
https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/bmm/shop/Directory
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) A Simple Change Makes This New Mastercard Easier To Use For Blind And Sight-Impaired People: (8.5% of all clicks.)https://www.fastcompany.com/90689669/your-next-mastercard-will-be-easier-to-use-for-people-who-are-blind-and-sight-impaired
B.) Apple Releases iOS 15.1 and iPadOS 15.1; Bringing Many Fixes for VoiceOver and Braille Users | Applevis: (8.4% of all clicks.)
https://www.applevis.com/blog/apple-releases-ios-151-and-ipados-151-bringing-many-fixes-voiceover-and-braille-users
C.) With The "Artificial Retina", Blind People Can See Again Even Without Using Their Eyes: (6.9% of all clicks.)
https://www.mediarunsearch.co.uk/with-the-artificial-retina-blind-people-can-see-again-even-without-using-their-eyes/
D.) A Review of the Orbit Reader 40 by Scott Davert, Coordinator: Technology, Research and Innovation Center, Helen Keller National Center for DeafBlind Youths and Adults: (6.6% of all clicks.)
https://www.helenkeller.org/hknc/review-orbit-reader-40
E.) You Can Now Add Your COVID Vaccine Card To iPhone's Apple Wallet: (6.0% of all clicks.)
https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/2021/10/26/covid-vaccine-card-iphone-apple-wallet/8555239002/
2) How The Facebook Facial Recognition Shutdown Will Impact Automatic Alt Text (AAT) Which Creates Image Descriptions for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Facebook is shutting down their Facial Recognition system. People who've opted in will no longer be automatically recognized in photos and videos and they will delete more than a billion people's individual facial recognition templates:https://about.fb.com/news/2021/11/update-on-use-of-face-recognition/
3) The Secret Way to Easily Circumvent Most Internet Paywalls in a Pinch
This Tidbit comes to us from our Publisher. It is important to note here that this practice is in no way illegal. It is however very obviously frowned upon by those that wish to make money from their online content. While we do not, in any way, wish to prevent creators from making money from their creations, we do above all wish to empower those that are blind and/or vision impaired to reach information that they might not otherwise be able to reach. And so, in this vein, we share this Tidbit. It is also important to note here that a simple clearing of your browser's Cookies will often allow you to reset the number of free articles that you can read on a site before you are required to subscribe. Here's to access:https://medium.com/web-design-web-developer-magazine/the-secret-way-to-easily-circumvent-most-internet-paywalls-in-a-pinch-90ffd7fcc14e
4) 6th Annual Let's Go Shopping Retail Therapy Extravaganza | Friday, November 5th and Saturday, November 6th 2021
The 6th Annual Let's Go Shopping Retail Therapy Extravaganza is set for Friday, November 5th and Saturday, November 6th 2021. This will be the 6th LGS event, and it promises to be the most fun and exciting yet! Get early access to the vendor list, event schedule, special sales, promotions, door prizes, news and updates. Spread the word using the tag #LetsGoShopping when tweeting about the event. Then, shop til you drop while enjoying some good retail therapy! Simply join our announce-only email list. Just send a blank email to:lgs+subscribe@groups.io 📧️
5) What Do The Accessibility Symbols In Apple TV And TV Apps Mean?
This article explains the three different accessibility symbols in Apple's media content, captions, subtitles, and audio description:https://www.macworld.com/article/546627/what-do-the-accessibility-symbols-in-apple-tv-and-tv-apps-mean.html
6) New Chromebook Accessibility Feature Aims To Help People With Dyslexia
Better text-to-speech (TTS) voices are coming to Chromebooks. While for "Select-to-speak" was designed for users with learning disabilities like dyslexia, all users can benefit:https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/googles-new-chromebook-accessibility-feature-aims-to-help-those-with-dyslexia/
7) Razer's Latest Productivity Keyboard And Mouse Have 'Silent' Mechanical Switches
This author is in love with mechanical keyboards but cannot use them in this remote work environment with all its Zoom and Teams calls and in audio recording situations because of the noise they make. This keyboard tries to solve this problem:https://www.engadget.com/razer-productivity-keyboard-mouse-silent-mechanical-switches-pro-type-ultra-pro-click-mini-164230459.html
8) How to Start Voice Typing on Windows 11 | Makeuseof.com
Dictation has never worked better in Windows. You can even choose to have punctuation added automatically. Discover how to turn on and use this enhancement:https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-start-voice-typing-on-windows-11/
9) Quadriplegic Apple User Rates iOS 15 and WatchOS 8 | 9to5Mac
This article provides some effective ways to interact with an iPhone and Apple Watch if you cannot use the touch screen or controls:https://9to5mac.com/2021/11/02/quadriplegic-apple-user-accessibility-ratings/
10) Android Users Need to Uninstall These 151 Apps Immediately | PCMag.com
150 Apps have been removed from the Google Play Store due to malware. PC Mag recommends you check your Android phone ASAP and remove any Apps from this list:https://au.pcmag.com/android-apps/90484/151-android-apps-need-to-be-uninstalled-immediately
11) Android 12 Update: Full List, Update for Xiaomi, Realme, OnePlus, Samsung, Oppo, Vivo | Trak.in - Indian Business of Tech, Mobile & Startups
All of these smartphones are set to receive Android 12. Is yours on the list?https://trak.in/tags/business/2021/10/31/android-12-update-full-list-update-for-xiaomi-realme-oneplus-samsung-oppo-vivo/
12) Amazon Fire TV - Accessibility Features
The Amazon Fire TV can turn your television into an affordable and accessible streaming solution. This official site offers an overview of the accessibility features that can be activated right from the remote control:https://www.amazon.com/b?ie=UTF8&node=23477585011
13) Change This One Setting On Your New MacBook Immediately | CNet.com
This setting may make the trackpad easier and more intuitive to use:https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/change-this-one-setting-on-your-new-macbook-immediately/
14) MacOS Monterey: Is Your Computer Compatible With Apple's New OS? Find Out Now | CNet.com
Not sure if your Mac can run the latest MacOS Monterey? CNET provide a full list of compatible computers:https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/macos-monterey-is-your-computer-compatible-with-apples-new-os-find-out-now/
15) How to Turn on and Use Live Captions on Android | Makeuseof.com
Live captions are just a tap away on Android 11 and 12. Learn how to enable on-device captions for your next video, podcast and more:https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-turn-on-and-use-live-caption-on-android/
16) AppleVis Unlimited: What's New and Noteworthy for October 2021
https://www.applevis.com/newsletter/applevis-unlimited-whats-new-and-noteworthy-october-202117) 7 Ways to Customize iOS 15's Focus Mode for Work and Play | Wired
This new feature can help with more than just being productive. Use it to enjoy the moment in all kinds of activities:https://www.wired.com/story/7-tips-ios-15-focus-mode-work-play/
18) 7 Best Free OCR Software Apps to Convert Images Into Text
Want OCR software for free? This article collects the seven best programs that turn images into text:https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/top-5-free-ocr-software-tools-to-convert-your-images-into-text-nb/
19) NVDA 2021.3 Beta1 Available for Testing
Beta1 of NVDA 2021.3 is now available for download and testing. For anyone who is interested in trying out what the next version of NVDA has to offer before it is officially released, you are welcome to download the beta and provide feedback:https://www.nvaccess.org/post/nvda-2021-3beta1/
20) SenseAbility! Using the BrailleSense 6 | An 8 Lesson Course for $112.00 USD from Hartgen Consultancy Commencing December 8th 2021
The training course will be held over at least eight sessions starting in December 2021. Within each session, you will be able to ask questions relating to the topic being worked through. Broadly speaking, topics will include:http://hartgen.org/senseability
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Creating Opportunities For People With Disabilities In STEM Careers
This article from the Forbes Business Council proposes some new ideas and strategies for including employees with disabilities in STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Math):https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2021/10/05/creating-opportunities-for-people-with-disabilities-in-stem-careers/?sh=2f722906d4c0
2) GPS App Guides Visually Impaired Navigate Trails Of City Park
The BlindSquare app assists users in navigating parks and trails. It's part of a pilot project by Alberta Parks with CNIB Frontier Accessibility and Trans Canada Trail to make hiking more accessible to people of all abilities:https://coolblindtech.com/gps-app-guides-visually-impaired-navigate-trails-of-city-park/
3) Voters With Disabilities Gain Political Clout As Ballots Become More Accessible, Study Finds
In this article, The researchers, who analyzed data from the federal government's Current Population Survey Voting and Registration Supplement for November 2020, found that 62% of people with disabilities voted in 2020, up from 56% in 2016 in the United States:https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2021/11/02/voters-disabilities-gain-political-clout-more-accessibility/6248651001/
4) Mastercard Introduces Accessible Card For People With Sight Loss
Here is a new standard for identifying different types of cards, credit, debit, and prepaid:https://coolblindtech.com/mastercard-introduces-accessible-card-for-people-with-sight-loss/
5) Flying Blind: Taking Flight Simulation To A New Level In Accessibility
Software developers [Andy Borka] and [Jason Fayre] have a love for aviation. They are also both totally blind. They've developed software called Talking Flight Monitor, and it has made flight simulation possible for anyone with impaired vision or blindness. What draws them to aviation and flight simulators:https://hackaday.com/2021/11/02/flying-blind-taking-flight-simulation-to-a-new-level-in-accessibility/
6) Travel Hands To Launch Uber-style App For Blind People To Get Guided Assistance From Public
This November, London-based startup Travel Hands intends to launch an Uber-style app to help individuals with sight loss living in or visiting urban environments receive guided assistance from volunteers:https://www.forbes.com/sites/gusalexiou/2021/10/31/travel-hands-to-launch-uber-style-app-for-blind-people-to-get-guided-assistance-from-public/?sh=5dc96fca7f42
7) Legal Update: Accessibility Overlay Edition
This page is an article about web accessibility overlays and the law. An overlay is a type of software that can be installed on a website. Companies selling overlays say they will protect a company from being sued. But lawsuits still happen when companies use overlays. Six hundred people have signed a statement about the problems with overlays. This article talks about 4 legal developments about overlays:https://www.lflegal.com/2021/11/overlay-legal-update/
8) How to Hear Images and See Sounds
Artists Shannon Finnegan and Andy Slater talk accessibility, transdimensional hearing, alt-text as poetry, sound descriptions, and Instagram captions for McSweeney's Audio Issue:https://daily.jstor.org/how-to-hear-images-and-see-sounds/
9) Blind People Won the Right to Break Ebook DRM. In 3 Years, They'll Have to Do It Again
Advocates will once again be granted a DMCA exception to make accessible versions of texts. They argue that it's far past time to make it permanent:https://www.wired.com/story/ebooks-drm-blind-accessibility-dmca/
10) The Internet Archive Transforms Access to Books in a Digital World
In honor of Open Access Week, and particularly this year's theme of structural equity, we wanted to highlight a project from the Internet Archive that is doing extraordinary work promoting access to knowledge. The bad news: that project is also under legal threat. The good news: the Archive is fighting back:https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2021/10/internet-archive-transforms-access-books-digital-world
11) For A Legally Blind Player, Far Cry 6's Accessibility Options Are Empowering
Despite stagnant open-world tropes, Far Cry continues to improve its accessibility options:https://www.polygon.com/22748526/far-cry-6-accessibility-pc-xbox-one-series-x-ps5-ps4
12) Love is Blind Season 2 is Not Coming to Netflix in November 2021
Love is Blind season 2 has been high in demand by millions of Netflix users ever since the show aired its first season in 2020. Waiting for the second season certainly wasn't made any easier when the popular dating series dropped a follow-up special earlier this year titled Love is Blind: After the Altar, which showcased the lives of these couples two years after the unprecedented success of the show:https://netflixlife.com/2021/10/29/love-is-blind-season-2-not-coming-netflix-november-2021/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Access Tech Watch-360 Podcast | Google Lookout versus Microsoft Seeing AI, plus the first Audio Described Dancehall / Hip-Hop Music Video
October 26th 2021 We give a comparison between Lookout on the Galaxy S21 Ultra/ Android and the Microsoft Seeing Ai, using a iPhone 10X (latest operating system), the pod looks at several products and goes over basic functions with both devices and applications; Additionally, we cover the first audio described modern Dancehall/Hip-Hop Video with Jamaica's Trophy Sniper and the Eloheem Team (Silent Killa):https://accesstechwatch360.podbean.com/e/google-look-out-vs-seeing-ai-plus-the-first-audio-described-music-video-silent-killa/
2) Blind Android Users 47 | Count That Money
October 30th 2021 | In this episode we talk about currency readers / recognisers. We demo the currency recognising features in Lookout and Supersense. We demo Cash Reader and an app launched by Reserve Bank of India, MANI. We unbox the Pixel 6 Pro and review it which can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/blindandroidusers. In the next episode of Commentary screen reader we see multi finger gestures and focus monitor. To listen to this and all previous episodes, please visit:https://blindandroidusers.com/category/bauposts/shownotes/
3) Mosen At Large 155
October 31st 2021 Apple SharePlay, JAWS 2022, part 1 of our Chromebook review and more:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/be99390c/apple-shareplay-jaws-2022-part-1-of-our-chromebook-review-and-more
4) Eyes on Success 2145 Accessibility of Android Devices Past and Present
November 3rd 2021The accessibility of Android devices has continued to improve over the years and is now a viable option for those who are visually impaired. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Austin Pinto, Warren Carr and Mariam Mohsen from the Blind Android Users team about how Android has evolved over time as well as about recently introduced accessibility features:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202145.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) 6th Annual Let's Go Shopping Retail Therapy Extravaganza
November 5th 2021 and November 6th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | What follows is the complete schedule for the Let's Go Shopping event. Please note that all times below are Pacific time. Be sure to adjust for your time zone accordingly. FRIDAY: 9:00 AM PT to 5:00 PM PT | 09AM: Welcome and introduction | 09:15: EZ2See® Products LLC - Gifts to keep you organized | 10AM: Scentsy with Nini - Festive Fragrances for your Holiday Home | 11AM: A. T. Guys, Featuring the Blindshell Classic 2 and Other Cool Stuff | 11:30: The Unseen Bean - It's a coffee Christmas | 12N: Guidelight Dogs - Going To The Dogs (and more!) with KaeAnn, Debra and Thor at GuideLight Dog Products! | 01PM: Patti and Ricky - Adaptive fashion and accessories for men, women, and kids | 02PM: Stocking Stuffers: Gifts under $20! | 03PM: Elegant Insights - Ten years of braille jewelry and accessories! Celebrate with us! | 3:30: Elegant Insights - Sparkle On with The Sparkle Squad | 04PM: Wright Turn Only - Unique handcrafted gifts | 05PM: End of day. | SATURDAY: November 6 9:00 AM PT to 5:00 PM PT | 09AM: Guidelights and Gadgets - It Talks, It's Soft, and You Can Walk with It: Unique Holiday Gifts and More from GuideLights and Gadgets | 10AM: EZ2See® Products LLC - Give the gift of organization | 10:30: Angela's Awesome Jerky - A very tasty Christmas | 11AM: Scenic Made - Artisinal gourmet | 12N: Blind Girl Designs - Fun Holiday Wear by Blind Girl Designs. | 01PM: Elegant Insights - For the person who has everything | 1:30: Elegant Insights - Deck the halls with a tactile touch: Holiday ornaments! | 02PM: On The Go Dog Gear - Bandannas, bells, bling, and other gifts for the dog lover on your list | 03PM: Mama Otter's Tidbits - Handcrafted Gemstone and Seasonal Jewelry Gifts | 3:30PM A. T. Guys Tech and Gadgets for the Holidays | 04PM: Happy Hour Q and A - Pop a cork, crack open a cold one, find something fizzy, and get your questions answered! | 05PM End of day. | The 'Stocking Stuffers' segment is an opportunity for any of the vendors with well-priced, small items to present their products in a fast-paced format to help you find those little gifts perfect for stockings or secret Santa gift exchanges. The "Happy Hour" session at the end of Saturday is meant to provide a bit of extra time for any of the vendors to make themselves available for anyone who was unable to get their questions answered during the scheduled time slot. All-comers welcome! Be sure to use the hashtag #LetsGoShopping when tweeting or posting about the event. Ready for a little retail therapy? Let's go shopping! This will be the 6th LGS event, and it promises to be the most fun and exciting yet! Get early access to the vendor list, event schedule, special sales, promotions, door prizes, news and updates. Spread the word use the tag #LetsGoShopping when tweeting about the event. Then, shop til you drop while enjoying some good retail therapy! Simply join our announce-only email list. Just send a blank email to:lgs+subscribe@groups.io 📧️
2) What's New With ZoomText? | Access Academy | APH ConnectCenter
November 5th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Get ready for ZoomText 2022! Join Ben Knolles for more information about the Quick Access toolbar, learn how to get the most out of the voice assistant, and review the features that make ZoomText a must-have:https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_nW9HNW-NRh6CqSplkfniIA
3) Technology User Group (TUG) Annual Look at Assistive Technology Gadgets, Gizmos and Thingamajigs
November 6th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | On Saturday, November 6, the Technology User Group proudly presents our annual look at assistive technology gadgets, gizmos and thingamajigs. This showcase will help you select the perfect gift for the most important person in your life ... You! All items presented will cost $100 or less. You do not need to RSVP for this event. The presentation will begin at 10 AM and last about an hour. All Technology User Group meetings are virtual and may be joined by calling:(319) 527-4994 📱️
4) ATHEN (Access Technology Higher Education Network) 2021 Annual Meeting
November 9th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | All are welcome to attend the ATHEN Annual Meeting. Real-Time Captioning will be provided. If you would like to request any additional disability-related accommodations, please contact me at athenpresident@gmail.com 📧️ | Zoom meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87384816423
5) JAWS, Fusion, and ZoomText 2022 New Features | Access Ingenuity
November 10th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity to explore what's new in JAWS, Fusion, and ZoomText 2022! Learning Outcomes: Explain how to pin favorite commands when using ZoomText or Fusion. Demonstrate the modified ability to use both the ZoomText and JAWS assistance when using Fusion in 2022. Introduce the ability to split your screen reader speech and computer sound when using stereo headphones, great for Zoom meetings or other videoconferences. Explore additional features when available. Meeting ID: 825 7780 4526 | Passcode: 145893 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,82577804526#,,,,*145893# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82577804526?pwd=TkxhZm5lazJVbDYxb0NKcTZhbzE3dz09
6) Meet the RUBY 10 Video Magnifier-A Versatile, Low Vision Solution for Everyday Living Activities
November 11th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Our RUBY video magnifiers have become some of the most popular low vision products on the market today, and we're so excited to announce the newest addition: the RUBY 10! The RUBY 10 video magnifier features a large, 10-inch touchscreen display and three dedicated cameras to help you with your everyday tasks. Use the RUBY to magnify magazines, photos, letters, labels, and other fine print. A swing-out arm allows you to view items in your hand and write. Enable full-page OCR on the speech model when the arm is extended. With a touch of a button, you can scan pages and have them read aloud to you. The third camera is dedicated to seeing objects at a short distance, such as signs and menus on a wall. Join Mike Wood and Michelle Williams as they introduce the RUBY 10 and demonstrate its ease of use and unique viewing modes. For example: ColorSight +TM is a feature that addresses color blindness by shifting specific colors to assist color differentiation in real-time. Glare GuardTM attempts to maximize comfort during long-term use by minimizing pain from light sensitivity. This feature reduces the wavelengths of light associated with such pain. EdgeScribeTM edge enhancement modes attempt to improve object recognition by removing visual clutter. AptiviewTM adjusts the contrast in different parts of the image, which could improve the viewing experience in more lighting conditions than previously possible:https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_N3WJbUe5SIOhZsv6wwOBQg
7) Room to Grow: Progressing a Student Through MATT Connect's Interfaces | APH
November 12th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Ready. Set. Grow! The MATT Connect has the capacity to evolve with your student through Basic, Standard and Advanced Interfaces. In this webinar, we'll compare the user interfaces and provide resources on when to advance a student through each interface:https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_dOx3f-OPQaaSyYZoX_PCtg
8) Accessing Higher Ground Accessible Media, Web and Technology Conference by Association on Higher Education And Disability (AHEAD)
November 15th 2021 Through November 19th 2021 | Presented and hosted by AHEAD, Accessing Higher Ground is conducted in collaboration with ATHEN:https://accessinghigherground.org/
9) Using Windows 11 with a Screen Reader by Microsoft
November 17th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Jeff Bishop, Program Manager, Windows Engineering. Anne Taylor, Program Manager, Accessibility Team. Brett Humphrey, Program Manager, Teams Engineering. We are excited to share how we are empowering screen reader users to achieve more with what's coming in Windows 11. This webinar will focus on a broad overview of accessibility experiences in Windows 11. This includes new Start Menu interactions, a new Windows Settings experience, an all-new chat experience with your friends and family and more. New Windows hotkeys will also be introduced for things like Quick Settings, Notifications and others. Many of these features will be demoed using Narrator and third-party screen readers to give you a feel for the all new Windows 11 after you upgrade:https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=v4j5cvGGr0GRqy180BHbRxkCFbE8eohLlKeYJpcMV_BUM0dLREdQRjc4SjVPTFFVTUo2NkJDQjFVWi4u&wdLOR=cC2A08E94-B6B3-4D58-A1E9-E2A1EC1ACF56
10) New Braille Productivity Features While Working With Windows, JAWS, and the Focus Braille Displays | Access Ingenuity
November 17th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity as they explain the advantages of the new firmware upgrade for the Focus 5th generation braille displays, and introduce the new ElEdit application to allow you to increase your productivity with braille and print files on Windows. Learning Outcomes: Explain the new features of the firmware upgrade for the Focus 5th generation braille displays including turning on and off word wrap, turning off the feature requiring a pin to connect to Bluetooth devices, one-handed mode, Etc. Demonstrate how to get the upgrade and how to perform the firmware upgrade itself. Introduce the new ElEdit app for Windows and JAWS allowing the user to finally read BRF files both in braille and speech while using Windows! Explore additional features of the ElEdit app including the ability to quickly translate from braille to print, print to braille, print the document, emboss a document, send a document to Microsoft Word, and more! | Meeting ID: 863 6137 8742 | Passcode: 881387 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,86361378742#,,,,*881387# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86361378742?pwd=TE9hMUpOU2pZT3JYZHlqVkt4RCtldz09
11) Carroll Center For The Blind: 2021 Free Virtual Technology Fair
November 23rd 2021 | The Carroll Center for the Blind's Virtual Technology Fair is back! Supercharge your independence from the comfort of your living room, office or anywhere you can log on. Attend exciting and informative presentations, visit with assistive technology exhibitors in breakout rooms, and find the products and services you need to live as independently as possible. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the latest products for individuals who are visually impaired. Free and open to consumers, families, friends, and professionals — the Carroll Center for the Blind's Virtual Technology Fair is sure to impress! Have you registered yet? Register for the Virtual Technology Fair today:https://carroll.org/events/virtual-technology-fair-2021/
12) 2nd Annual Sight Tech Global 2021
December 1st & 2nd 2021 | 100% free. 100% virtual. Sight Tech Global is the first global, virtual conference dedicated to fostering discussion among technology pioneers on how rapid advances in AI and related technologies will fundamentally alter the landscape of assistive technology and accessibility. Registration is now open:https://sighttechglobal.com/
13) SenseAbility! Using the BrailleSense 6 | An 8 Lesson Course for $112.00 USD from Hartgen Consultancy
December 8th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | The training course will be held over at least eight sessions starting in December 2021. Within each session, you will be able to ask questions relating to the topic being worked through. Broadly speaking, topics will include:http://hartgen.org/senseability
14) Structuring Accessible Forms | TPGi
December 14th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, XXX GMT | Creating accessible forms is the science of constructing form fields that provide the correct name, role, and state through the data entry experience. In this webinar, we examine how to: Create and label form fields of different types. Group related form fields, like radio buttons. Mark form fields as required. Handle input errors. Verify data integrity. Through code examples and testing with a screen reader, you'll learn how to create form fields that work for all your users. Register today:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-december-14-at-12pm-et-structuring-accessible-forms/
15) ATHEN (Access Technology Higher Education Network) 1st Annual "Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM) Accessibility: Starting with Math"
February 10th 2022 and February 11th 2022 | This virtual conference will take place on February 10th and 11th 2022. We are striving to create a diverse conference where experts can share their best practices, solutions, techniques, etc. for accessing and creating accessible STEM content in higher education. Join us! | Call for Proposal (Google Form) (Open now!) | Brush up by taking a sneak peek into the complexities in creating accessible STEM content in the YouTube video "Factors Involved in Making STEM Content Accessible" (10-minutes). | Conference Details, Dates, Registration, Cost:.https://athenpro.org/content/athen-virtual-conference
16) Axe-Con 2022
March 15th 2022 through March 17th 2022 | Axe-con is an open and inclusive digital accessibility conference that welcomes developers, designers, business users, and accessibility professionals of all experience levels to a new kind of accessibility conference focused on building, testing, and maintaining accessible digital experiences. Register for axe-con 2022, it's free! Join us for this three-day, multi-track conference to help further your digital accessibility efforts. Hear from the top experts in the field, for your area of interest with none of the noise. Learn more about why you should attend or get started by saving your seat by registering now:https://www.deque.com/axe-con/
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Cyclone Braille Embosser for Text or Graphics
Listing Date: 10/21/2021 | Price: $1,501.00 USD | Condition: Gently used. | Description: Lightweight, single-sided high quality embosser with speeds up to 60 characters per second. Includes Firebird Software Suite; Firebird Graphics Editor that allows you to produce Braille graphics in 12.5 and 17 DPI Flashdrive with manuals & setup guide. | Contact: Email karenxsantiago@msn.com 📧️ or (508) 854-1630 📱️. |2) FOR SALE: One Dell G7 7500 Laptop
Listing Date: 10/21/2021 | Price: $855.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Lightning fast, current Windows 10 64 bit, Jaws 2021 installed with no authorization. NVDA upon request. 15.6 inch display, Intel Core i7 at 2.6 Ghz, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD & power adapter. Retails for $1200.00. | Contact: Email karenxsantiago@msn.com 📧️ or (508) 854-1630 📱️. |3) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ APH ConnectCenter Resources: Webinars
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/110420211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ Accessible Pharmacy Joins Be My Eyes
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Coding is Easy and Accessible with Colby the Code & Go Robot Mouse
https://www.aph.org/product/accessible-code-and-go-mouse/
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ GuideLights And Gadgets
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: HIMS, Inc.
➜ Order Now! Get The Most Powerful Android Notetaker Available, the BrailleSense 6 From HIMS. It's Simply The Best.
https://hims-inc.com/product/braillesense-6/
Sponsor Since: September 30th 2021
Website: https://hims-inc.com/ 🌐
Shop All Products: https://hims-inc.com/shop-all-products/ 🛒
Phone: (512) 837-2000 📱️
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5R9NjA1nfWo
Sales Email: sales@hims-inc.com 📧️
Support Email: support@hims-inc.com 📧️
About: HIMS, Inc. is a global manufacturer and distributor that has provided braille, magnification and accessible healthcare devices since 1999.
Sponsor: Blind Mice Mega Mall
➜ Modified Talking Black & Decker Toaster Oven Factory Directfrom E T S! Save $50 & Free U.S. Shipping
https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/bmm/shop/Item_Detail?itemid=5447225
Sponsor Since: September 23rd 2021
Website: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/ 🌐
Blind Mice Order Center Phone: (866) 922-8877 📱️
Blind Mice Order Center Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM CST/CDT (GMT-5) Monday through Friday
Mall Directory of Stores: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/bmm/shop/Directory 🛒
Join The Today's Cheese Newsletter: Join the Today's Cheese newsletter to get Members' Only sales & Unadvertised Specials from the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You can save money with these unadvertised specials! Send an email to: TodaysCheese+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
Blind Mice Swap Shop: Sell, Swap, and Buy. The Mice receive calls everyday asking if we buy or sell used or unwanted items. The Mice don't sell used products but to help our members, we created the Blind Mice Swap Shop! The Blind Mice Swap Shop is the place for Sellers, Traders, & Buyers to find each other! Do you ... have something you don't want anymore... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something you just don't use... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something new to sell... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Provide a service that might be helpful to other Blind and Visually Impaired folks... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Have an announcement about an upcoming event beneficial to the Blind & Visually Impaired Community... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Joining the Blind Mice Swap Shop is free and as easy as sending an email to: BlindMiceSwapShop+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
About: Welcome to Blind Mice Mega Mall! The Mall with the Blind In Mind! Blind Mice Mega Mall is designed for use with a screen reader and low vision software for visually impaired shoppers. Each store is an independent business owned / managed by a member of the Blind / Low Vision Community. Please browse & shop the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You will find great items and unique offerings from our merchants. You help the Blind Community every time you make a purchase from any of the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. Every purchase made at Blind Mice Mega Mall gives back to the Blind and Visually Impaired Community. Proceeds from sales fund the MouseHole Scholarship Program, the Cooking In The Dark Show and The Movie Vault. Blind Mice Mega Mall accepts American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, Checks, and Money Orders. Purchase Orders From State Agencies are also welcome.
Sponsor: Carroll Center for the Blind
➜ Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
https://carroll.org/screen-reader-user-tester-training-program/
Sponsor Since: August 5th 2021
Website: https://carroll.org/ 🌐
Phone: (617) 969-6200 📱️
Fax: (617) 969-6204 ░Shop: https://carroll.org/store/ 🛒
Donate: https://carroll.org/donate ❤
Social: Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | LinkedIn | Instagram
About: The Carroll Center for the Blind is the foremost leader in vision rehabilitation services for individuals confronted by the challenges of vision loss. Our mission is to empower those who are blind or visually impaired to achieve independence and to lead a fulfilling life. Established in 1936, the renowned Carroll Center for the Blind has been serving those with vision impairment for over eight decades; we are known nationally as a premier Vision Rehabilitation Center. Located just outside of Boston on a sprawling campus in Newton, Massachusetts, we proudly serve ALL ages and ALL stages of vision loss. With the ongoing promise of improving the lives of people with vision-related problems, The Carroll Center for the Blind has pioneered many innovative services allowing people who are blind or have low vision to learn the skills to be independent in their homes, in class settings, and in their work places. Our services include vision rehabilitation, vocational and transition programs, assistive technology training, educational support, and recreation opportunities for individuals who are visually impaired of all ages. For over 80 years, the expertise of Carroll Center staff has provided help for thousands of blind and visually impaired persons with diverse opportunities for success and independent living.
Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions
➜ The 50% Introductory Rate for Scribe for Meetings is Coming to a Close!
https://pneumasolutions.com/scribe-for-meetings-promotion-expiring-soon/
Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, October 28, 2021 - Volume 830 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, October 28, 2021 - Volume 830
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Take Your Tech to the Next Level at the Virtual Technology Fair hosted by the Carroll Center for the Blind
Supercharge your independence at the Virtual Technology Fair! On November 23, the Carroll Center for the Blind's annual Technology Fair is back to connect you with innovative, transformative technology that can make an immediate impact on your life. With a virtual event, you'll be able to participate from the comfort of your living room, office or anywhere you can log on.
At the Virtual Technology Fair, you'll have a chance to discover exciting new products and services exhibitors are offering for people who are blind or have low vision in the Virtual Exhibition Hall. You'll also get to learn directly from our experts during sessions on a variety of topics, including: iPhone iOS 15 Accessibility, Tips and Tricks for Windows Screen Reader Users, Top Ten Ways to Use Amazon's Alexa, and how to How to Advocate for More Accessible Apps and Websites.
Registration is free. Learn more and sign up for the Virtual Technology Fair at:
https://bit.ly/3vBaUk2.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Windows 11 Tips And Tricks: 8 Hidden Settings You Need To Try: (9.1% of all clicks.)https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/windows-11-tips-and-tricks-8-hidden-settings/
B.) Simplenote, The Simplest Way To Keep Notes: (8.5% of all clicks.)
https://simplenote.com/
C.) Braille Jumble - BrailleBug: (5.8% of all clicks.)
https://braillebug.org/games/braille-jumble/
D.) Enhancements in JAWS 2022 and Fusion 2022 Public Beta 3: (5.4% of all clicks.)
https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/PublicBeta
E.) 5 Easy Ways You Can Be An Ally To Disabled Travelers: (5.1% of all clicks.)
https://thepointsguy.com/news/disabled-travelers-ally-tips/
2) Apple Releases iOS 15.1 and iPadOS 15.1; Bringing Many Fixes for VoiceOver and Braille Users | Applevis
Apple has released iOS 15.1 and iPadOS 15.1 to the public. Testing suggests that these releases resolve a number of the issues introduced for blind and low vision users with the initial releases of iOS and iPadOS 15:https://www.applevis.com/blog/apple-releases-ios-151-and-ipados-151-bringing-many-fixes-voiceover-and-braille-users
3) Finding Things You've Dropped | Hadley Workshops
Learn how to successfully find dropped items:https://hadley.edu/workshops/o-m-basics-series/finding-things-you-ve-dropped
4) A Review of the Orbit Reader 40 by Scott Davert, Coordinator: Technology, Research and Innovation Center, Helen Keller National Center for DeafBlind Youths and Adults
In January of 2018, I reviewed the original Orbit Reader 20 From Orbit Research. It was "intended primarily as a braille display for reading braille files and for connecting to external devices. With a much lower price point than other 20-cell displays, the Orbit Reader 20 does not have onboard translation options, Cursor Routing Buttons or many of the other features found in braille devices that cost thousands of dollars more." Fast forward to 2021 and Orbit Research has a new device that is a 40-cell display, featuring Cursor Routing Buttons, built in translation options, connectivity for up to 5 Bluetooth devices and much more. This was done while maintaining the idea of developing a solid braille device while still keeping the price far below other comparable options:https://www.helenkeller.org/hknc/review-orbit-reader-40
5) 6th Annual Let's Go Shopping Retail Therapy Extravaganza Set For Friday, November 5th and Saturday, November 6th 2021
The next Let's Go Shopping Retail Therapy Extravaganza is set for Friday, November 5th and Saturday, November 6th 2021. This will be the 6th LGS event, and it promises to be the most fun and exciting yet! Get early access to the vendor list, event schedule, special sales, promotions, door prizes, news and updates. Spread the word use the tag #LetsGoShopping when tweeting about the event. Then, shop til you drop while enjoying some good retail therapy! Simply join our announce-only email list. Just send a blank email to:lgs+subscribe@groups.io 📧️
6) Jaws, ZoomText and Fusion 2022 Released
Freedom Scientific has released 2022 versions of Jaws, ZoomText and Fusion. Some of the improvements include automatic importing of settings, improvements in Microsoft Office, a new "Sound Splitter," voice assistant, and braille language switching:https://www.freedomscientific.com/
7) You Can Now Add Your COVID Vaccine Card To iPhone's Apple Wallet
Easier and more accessible than showing businesses and other venues your printed card, iPhone Users have several options for including their vaccine card to Apple Wallet. If using a QR code, iPhone owners scan it with their camera, tap the Health app notification, then add it to the Wallet and Health apps. You can also download a verifiable health record from your provider and add that to the Health and Wallet apps:https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/2021/10/26/covid-vaccine-card-iphone-apple-wallet/8555239002/
8) Zoom's Automatic Closed Captioning Rolls Out To All Free Users
Zoom improves accessibility for users with hearing impairments, non-native speakers, and those with environmental limitations by adding automated transcription to its free accounts:https://www.engadget.com/zoom-automatic-closed-captions-free-users-172250054.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly9uZXdzLmdvb2dsZS5jb20v&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAFZasp0xDwMhfuiW5k5b7KFPbh1F9pXdf4ZVDQFQ994zKin6CUeM4OIFl62lvrIpTqe1xAGoIMkNLygfypgnX-hZyo67krT
9) 2022 ATHEN Virtual STEM Accessibility Conference: Starting with Math
The Accessible Technology Higher Education Network (ATHEN) is hosting the first ever Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM) Accessibility: Starting with Math virtual conference on February 10th and 11th, 2022. ATHEN is striving for a diverse conference where experts can share their best practices, solutions, techniques, etc. for accessing and creating accessible STEM content in higher education. This is going to be exciting, novel, resourceful, and enlightening to all who care about accessible content in STEM fields in higher education. A call for proposals is now open:https://athenpro.org/content/athen-virtual-conference
10) How To Request Tax Information In Alternative Formats
this author recently received this notice in braille from the IRS and thought it may be useful to some Tidbit readers in the United States. The IRS is developing a process to make it easier for visually impaired taxpayers to request post-filing tax notices-such as notices about additional taxes or penalties owed-in Braille, large print, audio, or electronic formats. The new process will be in place by January 31, 2022:https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/information-about-the-alternative-media-center
11) Android 12 New Features: Hands-On With 100+ Additions!
Dive deep into the new features of Android 12 as it begins to roll-out to supported hardware:https://9to5google.com/2021/10/20/hands-on-with-100-new-changes-and-features-in-android-12-video/
12) 10 Great MacOS Monterey Features Worth Upgrading For
The MacRumors team highlight ten reasons to upgrade to the latest MacOS Monterey:https://www.macrumors.com/guide/macos-monterey-features/
13) The New Features, Changes, Improvements, and Bugs in macOS 12 Monterey for Blind and Low Vision Users | Applevis
Apple has released macOS 12 Monterey to the public. As usual, we won't cover the mainstream features here, concentrating instead on what's new and changed for blind and low vision users:https://www.applevis.com/blog/new-features-changes-improvements-and-bugs-macos-12-monterey-blind-and-low-vision-users
14) Commentary Screen Reader Features
The Commentary screen reader on Android is an alternative to Talkback. The Blind Android Users podcast has provided several segments covering Commentary's features:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1tg4i0lMOLA&list=PL5iI0uwraRqopLuw5obLdjyV9JeH4y4qd&index=2
15) Microsoft Edge Tips for JAWS: Downloads | Freedom Scientific Training YouTube Channel
Learn how to access and optimize your downloads in Microsoft Edge with JAWS:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_UbnQvPuins
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) When Will Disney Update Classic Attractions for Accessibility?
While these issues identified by the author primarily focus on physical access, readers should consider improving accessibility for other aspects as well. The author makes the point, "Bringing in guests with various disabilities to give feedback, test possible solutions, and refine would ultimately lead toward the best success for enhancing accessibility:"https://www.wdwinfo.com/walt-disney-world/when-will-disney-update-classic-attractions-for-accessibility/
2) Draft of Promoting Access to Voting: Recommendations for Addressing Barriers to Private and Independent Voting for People with Disabilities
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) requests public comments on the Draft of Promoting Access to Voting: Recommendations for Addressing Barriers to Private and Independent Voting for People with Disabilities. NIST is directed to identify barriers to private and independent voting for people with disabilities, make recommendations to remove these barriers, and evaluate the steps needed to ensure that the online Federal Voter Registration Form is accessible to people with disabilities. Public comment is open for the next month:https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2021/10/21/2021-22757/draft-of-promoting-access-to-voting-recommendations-for-addressing-barriers-to-private-and
3) A Simple Change Makes This New Mastercard Easier To Use For Blind And Sight-Impaired People
It may look like an inconsequential tweak, but it marks an important step in the company's quest for inclusivity:https://www.fastcompany.com/90689669/your-next-mastercard-will-be-easier-to-use-for-people-who-are-blind-and-sight-impaired
4) Indoor Skydiving Thrills Visually Impaired Adventurists | YouTube
A group of thrill-seekers who are blind or visually impaired took to the air to try their hands at indoor skydiving in a Barcelona wind tunnel, Wednesday, October 20th 2021:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t8dPqaZuV-o
5) Students Can Learn With Their Mouths As Well As With Their Eyes And Hands
The finding is a win for education accessibility for blind and low-vision students:https://www.salon.com/2021/10/24/students-can-learn-with-their-mouths-as-well-as-with-their-eyes-and-hands_partner/
6) With The "Artificial Retina", Blind People Can See Again Even Without Using Their Eyes
A study conducted by Miguel Hernandez University (Spain) and published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation found an alternative way to restore sight for blind patients: through glasses that directly stimulate the cortex. In practice, the invention uses an "artificial retina" and detects light in front of its user:https://www.mediarunsearch.co.uk/with-the-artificial-retina-blind-people-can-see-again-even-without-using-their-eyes/
7) Visually-Impaired Athlete's Wholesome Video Revealing How He Tackles Every Day Tasks Goes Viral, Wins Hearts
But are his activities limited to only basic things? Of course not. Anthony is an avid skateboarder, a motivational speaker, and a guitarist. He even takes his dog out for walks on the main roads of New York and public areas:https://www.timesnownews.com/the-buzz/article/visually-impaired-athletes-wholesome-video-revealing-how-he-tackles-every-day-tasks-goes-viral-wins-hearts/826387
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Mosen At Large 154
October 23rd 2021 New tech from Apple and Google, what games can a blind person play with their sighted kids, and a review of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/c48e3483/new-tech-from-apple-and-google-what-games-can-a-blind-person-play-with-their-sighted-kids-and-a-review-of-the-samsung-galaxy-z-flip-3-5g
2) Blind Android Users 46 | It's News Time!
October 23rd 2021 | In this episode we talk about the release of Pixel 6 and 6 Pro and Android 12 stable. Then we talk about news readers, we demo google news and pocket news reader. We have an interview with Scott Adams from Lookout scanning and OCR app by Google. We then show how to use physical keyboard with Talkback:https://blindandroidusers.com/category/bauposts/shownotes/
3) DM81 - Who's That?
October 26th 2021In this podcast Damashe and Michael discuss our thoughts on the iPhone 13 Mini Damashe has been using, the simply safe security system. A discussion of the soundcraft signature 12MTK and how we are getting people in from clubhouse to the Cleanfeed tool we use to record. We talk about the Apple unleashed event and Michael's podcast switching. A discussion about Calendar on Windows and Mac and closing the episode out with a discussion about the new BlindShell 2 phone:
https://yourownpay.com/dm81-whos-that/
4) Eyes on Success 2144 Accessibility Features Introduced in iOS 15
October 27th 2021Every year Apple releases a new and improved operating system for iOS devices. Each release also often comes with new accessibility features, and this year is no exception. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Dean Hudson, Apple's Accessibility Evangelist, about some of the new features that are expected to benefit visually impaired users in iOS 15:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202144.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Blast Off to More Braille with PageBlaster | Access Academy | APH ConnectCenter
November 3rd 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Blast off to more braille with PageBlaster, one of the first embossers available on quota. Along with our partners from HumanWare, APH will present on how to use the PageBlaster to print high-quality, interpoint braille. We'll explore ways to create tactile graphics and produce math with BrailleBlaster:https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_FtFxrNJ6S4uIIm1J8gYFIQ
2) Browsing the Web With JAWS Part 2 | Access Ingenuity
November 3rd 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Zhi Huang and Rachel Reeves from Access Ingenuity to explore the various methods to use JAWS to help increase your effectiveness when browsing the web. Even if you did not participate in part 1, you can still benefit from this presentation. Learning Outcomes: Review the JAWS Screen sensitive help to find out about general web page information, along with help with the element in focus. Use JAWS navigation quick keys and lists to navigate by forms, headings, links, regions, graphics, lists, list items, and tables. Introduce the Surf's Up tutorial from Freedom Scientific to help you practice navigating the web with JAWS. Better understand forms including different form fields and the Forms modes of JAWS. Meeting ID: 832 4240 0330 | Passcode: 372805 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83242400330#,,,,*372805# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83242400330?pwd=QXJMb2s1bzdYZUlHZElvYUJxa2VqUT09
3) 6th Annual Let's Go Shopping Retail Therapy Extravaganza
November 5th 2021 and November 6th 2021| The next Let's Go Shopping Retail Therapy Extravaganza is set for Friday, November 5th and Saturday, November 6th 2021. This will be the 6th LGS event, and it promises to be the most fun and exciting yet! Get early access to the vendor list, event schedule, special sales, promotions, door prizes, news and updates. Spread the word use the tag #LetsGoShopping when tweeting about the event. Then, shop til you drop while enjoying some good retail therapy! Simply join our announce-only email list. Just send a blank email to:lgs+subscribe@groups.io 📧️
4) What's New With ZoomText? | Access Academy | APH ConnectCenter
November 5th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Get ready for ZoomText 2022! Join Ben Knolles for more information about the Quick Access toolbar, learn how to get the most out of the voice assistant, and review the features that make ZoomText a must-have:https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_nW9HNW-NRh6CqSplkfniIA
5) Technology User Group (TUG) Annual Look at Assistive Technology Gadgets, Gizmos and Thingamajigs
November 6th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | On Saturday, November 6, the Technology User Group proudly presents our annual look at assistive technology gadgets, gizmos and thingamajigs. This showcase will help you select the perfect gift for the most important person in your life ... You! All items presented will cost $100 or less. You do not need to RSVP for this event. The presentation will begin at 10 AM and last about an hour. All Technology User Group meetings are virtual and may be joined by calling:(319) 527-4994 📱️
6) ATHEN (Access Technology Higher Education Network) 2021 Annual Meeting
November 9th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | All are welcome to attend the ATHEN Annual Meeting. Real-Time Captioning will be provided. If you would like to request any additional disability-related accommodations, please contact me at athenpresident@gmail.com 📧️ | Zoom meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87384816423
7) JAWS, Fusion, and ZoomText 2022 New Features | Access Ingenuity
November 10th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity to explore what's new in JAWS, Fusion, and ZoomText 2022! Learning Outcomes: Explain how to pin favorite commands when using ZoomText or Fusion. Demonstrate the modified ability to use both the ZoomText and JAWS assistance when using Fusion in 2022. Introduce the ability to split your screen reader speech and computer sound when using stereo headphones, great for Zoom meetings or other videoconferences. Explore additional features when available. Meeting ID: 825 7780 4526 | Passcode: 145893 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,82577804526#,,,,*145893# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82577804526?pwd=TkxhZm5lazJVbDYxb0NKcTZhbzE3dz09
8) Accessing Higher Ground Accessible Media, Web and Technology Conference by Association on Higher Education And Disability (AHEAD)
November 15th 2021 Through November 19th 2021 | Presented and hosted by AHEAD, Accessing Higher Ground is conducted in collaboration with ATHEN:https://accessinghigherground.org/
9) Using Windows 11 with a Screen Reader by Microsoft
November 17th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Jeff Bishop, Program Manager, Windows Engineering. Anne Taylor, Program Manager, Accessibility Team. Brett Humphrey, Program Manager, Teams Engineering. We are excited to share how we are empowering screen reader users to achieve more with what's coming in Windows 11. This webinar will focus on a broad overview of accessibility experiences in Windows 11. This includes new Start Menu interactions, a new Windows Settings experience, an all-new chat experience with your friends and family and more. New Windows hotkeys will also be introduced for things like Quick Settings, Notifications and others. Many of these features will be demoed using Narrator and third-party screen readers to give you a feel for the all new Windows 11 after you upgrade:https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=v4j5cvGGr0GRqy180BHbRxkCFbE8eohLlKeYJpcMV_BUM0dLREdQRjc4SjVPTFFVTUo2NkJDQjFVWi4u&wdLOR=cC2A08E94-B6B3-4D58-A1E9-E2A1EC1ACF56
10) New Braille Productivity Features While Working With Windows, JAWS, and the Focus Braille Displays | Access Ingenuity
November 17th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity as they explain the advantages of the new firmware upgrade for the Focus 5th generation braille displays, and introduce the new ElEdit application to allow you to increase your productivity with braille and print files on Windows. Learning Outcomes: Explain the new features of the firmware upgrade for the Focus 5th generation braille displays including turning on and off word wrap, turning off the feature requiring a pin to connect to Bluetooth devices, one-handed mode, Etc. Demonstrate how to get the upgrade and how to perform the firmware upgrade itself. Introduce the new ElEdit app for Windows and JAWS allowing the user to finally read BRF files both in braille and speech while using Windows! Explore additional features of the ElEdit app including the ability to quickly translate from braille to print, print to braille, print the document, emboss a document, send a document to Microsoft Word, and more! | Meeting ID: 863 6137 8742 | Passcode: 881387 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,86361378742#,,,,*881387# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86361378742?pwd=TE9hMUpOU2pZT3JYZHlqVkt4RCtldz09
11) Carroll Center For The Blind: 2021 Free Virtual Technology Fair
November 23rd 2021 | The Carroll Center for the Blind's Virtual Technology Fair is back! Supercharge your independence from the comfort of your living room, office or anywhere you can log on. Attend exciting and informative presentations, visit with assistive technology exhibitors in breakout rooms, and find the products and services you need to live as independently as possible. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the latest products for individuals who are visually impaired. Free and open to consumers, families, friends, and professionals — the Carroll Center for the Blind's Virtual Technology Fair is sure to impress! Have you registered yet? Register for the Virtual Technology Fair today:https://carroll.org/events/virtual-technology-fair-2021/
12) 2nd Annual Sight Tech Global 2021
December 1st & 2nd 2021 | 100% free. 100% virtual. Sight Tech Global is the first global, virtual conference dedicated to fostering discussion among technology pioneers on how rapid advances in AI and related technologies will fundamentally alter the landscape of assistive technology and accessibility. Registration is now open:https://sighttechglobal.com/
13) ATHEN (Access Technology Higher Education Network) 1st Annual "Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM) Accessibility: Starting with Math"
February 10th 2022 and February 11th 2022 | This virtual conference will take place on February 10th and 11th 2022. We are striving to create a diverse conference where experts can share their best practices, solutions, techniques, etc. for accessing and creating accessible STEM content in higher education. Join us! | Call for Proposal (Google Form) (Open now!) | Brush up by taking a sneak peek into the complexities in creating accessible STEM content in the YouTube video "Factors Involved in Making STEM Content Accessible" (10-minutes). | Conference Details, Dates, Registration, Cost:.https://athenpro.org/content/athen-virtual-conference
14) Axe-Con 2022
March 15th 2022 through March 17th 2022 | Axe-con is an open and inclusive digital accessibility conference that welcomes developers, designers, business users, and accessibility professionals of all experience levels to a new kind of accessibility conference focused on building, testing, and maintaining accessible digital experiences. Register for axe-con 2022, it's free! Join us for this three-day, multi-track conference to help further your digital accessibility efforts. Hear from the top experts in the field, for your area of interest with none of the noise. Learn more about why you should attend or get started by saving your seat by registering now:https://www.deque.com/axe-con/
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Cyclone Braille Embosser for Text or Graphics
Listing Date: 10/21/2021 | Price: $1,501.00 USD | Condition: Gently used. | Description: Lightweight, single-sided high quality embosser with speeds up to 60 characters per second. Includes Firebird Software Suite; Firebird Graphics Editor that allows you to produce Braille graphics in 12.5 and 17 DPI Flashdrive with manuals & setup guide. | Contact: Email karenxsantiago@msn.com 📧️ or (508) 854-1630 📱️. |2) FOR SALE: One Dell G7 7500 Laptop
Listing Date: 10/21/2021 | Price: $855.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Lightning fast, current Windows 10 64 bit, Jaws 2021 installed with no authorization. NVDA upon request. 15.6 inch display, Intel Core i7 at 2.6 Ghz, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD & power adapter. Retails for $1200.00. | Contact: Email karenxsantiago@msn.com 📧️ or (508) 854-1630 📱️. |3) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/102820211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ Accessible Pharmacy Joins Be My Eyes
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Coding is Easy and Accessible with Colby the Code & Go Robot Mouse
https://www.aph.org/product/accessible-code-and-go-mouse/
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ GuideLights And Gadgets: New For Fall
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: HIMS, Inc.
➜ Order Now! Get The Most Powerful Android Notetaker Available, the BrailleSense 6 From HIMS. It's Simply The Best.
https://hims-inc.com/product/braillesense-6/
Sponsor Since: September 30th 2021
Website: https://hims-inc.com/ 🌐
Shop All Products: https://hims-inc.com/shop-all-products/ 🛒
Phone: (512) 837-2000 📱️
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5R9NjA1nfWo
Sales Email: sales@hims-inc.com 📧️
Support Email: support@hims-inc.com 📧️
About: HIMS, Inc. is a global manufacturer and distributor that has provided braille, magnification and accessible healthcare devices since 1999.
Sponsor: Blind Mice Mega Mall
➜ Modified Talking Black & Decker Toaster Oven Factory Directfrom E T S! Save $50 & Free U.S. Shipping
https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/bmm/shop/Item_Detail?itemid=5447225
Sponsor Since: September 23rd 2021
Website: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/ 🌐
Blind Mice Order Center Phone: (866) 922-8877 📱️
Blind Mice Order Center Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM CST/CDT (GMT-5) Monday through Friday
Mall Directory of Stores: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/bmm/shop/Directory 🛒
Join The Today's Cheese Newsletter: Join the Today's Cheese newsletter to get Members' Only sales & Unadvertised Specials from the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You can save money with these unadvertised specials! Send an email to: TodaysCheese+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
Blind Mice Swap Shop: Sell, Swap, and Buy. The Mice receive calls everyday asking if we buy or sell used or unwanted items. The Mice don't sell used products but to help our members, we created the Blind Mice Swap Shop! The Blind Mice Swap Shop is the place for Sellers, Traders, & Buyers to find each other! Do you ... have something you don't want anymore... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something you just don't use... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something new to sell... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Provide a service that might be helpful to other Blind and Visually Impaired folks... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Have an announcement about an upcoming event beneficial to the Blind & Visually Impaired Community... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Joining the Blind Mice Swap Shop is free and as easy as sending an email to: BlindMiceSwapShop+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
About: Welcome to Blind Mice Mega Mall! The Mall with the Blind In Mind! Blind Mice Mega Mall is designed for use with a screen reader and low vision software for visually impaired shoppers. Each store is an independent business owned / managed by a member of the Blind / Low Vision Community. Please browse & shop the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You will find great items and unique offerings from our merchants. You help the Blind Community every time you make a purchase from any of the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. Every purchase made at Blind Mice Mega Mall gives back to the Blind and Visually Impaired Community. Proceeds from sales fund the MouseHole Scholarship Program, the Cooking In The Dark Show and The Movie Vault. Blind Mice Mega Mall accepts American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, Checks, and Money Orders. Purchase Orders From State Agencies are also welcome.
Sponsor: Carroll Center for the Blind
➜ Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
https://carroll.org/screen-reader-user-tester-training-program/
Sponsor Since: August 5th 2021
Website: https://carroll.org/ 🌐
Phone: (617) 969-6200 📱️
Fax: (617) 969-6204 ░Shop: https://carroll.org/store/ 🛒
Donate: https://carroll.org/donate ❤
Social: Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | LinkedIn | Instagram
About: The Carroll Center for the Blind is the foremost leader in vision rehabilitation services for individuals confronted by the challenges of vision loss. Our mission is to empower those who are blind or visually impaired to achieve independence and to lead a fulfilling life. Established in 1936, the renowned Carroll Center for the Blind has been serving those with vision impairment for over eight decades; we are known nationally as a premier Vision Rehabilitation Center. Located just outside of Boston on a sprawling campus in Newton, Massachusetts, we proudly serve ALL ages and ALL stages of vision loss. With the ongoing promise of improving the lives of people with vision-related problems, The Carroll Center for the Blind has pioneered many innovative services allowing people who are blind or have low vision to learn the skills to be independent in their homes, in class settings, and in their work places. Our services include vision rehabilitation, vocational and transition programs, assistive technology training, educational support, and recreation opportunities for individuals who are visually impaired of all ages. For over 80 years, the expertise of Carroll Center staff has provided help for thousands of blind and visually impaired persons with diverse opportunities for success and independent living.
Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions
➜ The 50% Introductory Rate for Scribe for Meetings is Coming to a Close!
https://pneumasolutions.com/scribe-for-meetings-promotion-expiring-soon/
Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ The Reader's Digest Getting Started Guide to Vision Loss?
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, October 21, 2021 - Volume 829 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, October 21, 2021 - Volume 829
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
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Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Quick Phrases Feature Now Rolling Out To Google Assistant: (7.8% of all clicks.)https://www.androidauthority.com/google-assistant-quick-phrases-3036486/
B.) What's New In Microsoft 365 Accessibility Features For Fall 2021: (7.3% of all clicks.)
https://blogs.microsoft.com/accessibility/m365-accessibility-fall-2021/
C.) Anker Announces Soundcore's First Audio Glasses, Priced At $200: (7.1% of all clicks.)
https://www.theverge.com/2021/10/13/22713183/anker-soundcore-frames-glasses-price-specs
D.) Youtube Doubles Down On Accessibility With These Caption And Audio Features: (6.9% of all clicks.)
https://www.androidcentral.com/youtube-accessibility-features-live-auto-caption-and-audio
E.) Air Pods Pro Can Help You Hear Conversations Better After Recent Firmware Update: (5.3% of all clicks.)
https://www.theverge.com/2021/10/6/22713126/airpods-pro-conversation-boost-firmware-update
2) Freedom Scientific Announces RUBY 10 Video Magnifier
Freedom Scientific has announced the RUBY 10, a 10-inch touchscreen video magnifier with optional text to speech and advanced viewing modes. The RUBY 10 video magnifier features a 10-inch touchscreen and three dedicated cameras to help you magnify letters, magazines, labels, and photos. A swing-out arm allows you to view items in your hand and write. Enable full-page OCR on the speech model when the arm is extended. With a touch of a button, you can scan pages and have them read aloud to you. The third camera is dedicated to seeing objects at a short distance, such as signs and menus on a wall. The RUBY 10 also introduces unique, patent-pending viewing modes that come standard with both models:https://support.freedomscientific.com/About/News/Article/219
3) Enhancements in JAWS 2022 and Fusion 2022 Public Beta 3
FreedomScientific has released Public Beta 3 for JAWS. Fixes for Outlook 365, sound cards settings, AppReader are among the changes:https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/PublicBeta
4) Annotate Scanned Text And PDFs With Supernova 20.03
This latest update brings the ability to annotate scanned images with SuperNova for low vision users:https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/news?id=507
5) NVDACon 2021 Community Letter
NVDACon 2021 will be held on the first weekend of December 2021. The exact dates and timing will be determined as the conference draws closer, and the speakers are known. This year, the conference is titled "NVDA, 15 years and still evolving."https://www.nvdacon.org/
6) NVDA Addon Quick Notetaker
The Quick Notetaker add-on is a tool which allows writing notes quickly and easily anytime and from any app the user is using. Whether the user is watching a video for example, or participating in a meeting on Zoom, Microsoft Teams or Google Meet, they can easily and smoothly open the notetaker and take a note. Markdown and Microsoft Word are supported formats as well as the ability to view as HTML:https://addons.nvda-project.org/addons/quickNotetaker.en.html
7) Simplenote, The Simplest Way To Keep Notes
Speaking of notetaking, Simplenote, an app by Automattic, is an accessible and free notetaking app that supports markdown on iOS and the web interface. It is used by this author to prepare the weekly Tidbits:https://simplenote.com/
8) Public Beta Of Language Preference Feature
This one comes to us via the AIRA Connections newsletter. Spanish is now an option in beta for AIRA Explorers. Explorers are encouraged to give it a try and AIRA Spanish speaking agents are sought:https://aira.io/tag/connection
9) 5 Easy Ways You Can Be An Ally To Disabled Travelers
The Points Guy brings us 5 tips on being an Ally to travelers with disabilities. While most tips focus on travelers with mobility impairments, the advice is useful for everyone:https://thepointsguy.com/news/disabled-travelers-ally-tips/
10) Stark, A Hub For Accessible Software Design, Launches A Mac App In Beta
This Mac app claims to help software designers and developers make their apps more accessible using automated techniques:https://techcrunch.com/2021/09/28/stark-a-hub-for-accessible-software-design-launches-a-mac-app-in-beta/
11) NV Access | In-Process 19th October 2021
The latest version of In-Process is out. Find out about NVDACon, the premier, yearly online conference that's dedicated to NVDA and how you can get involved. Plus, there's minor updates to the official Switching from JAWS to NVDA Guide, and information about Microsoft webinars on Windows 11 accessibility:https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-19th-october-2021/
12) Sight Tech Global Online Conference Registration
Register for the second annual Sight Tech Global online conference for free. Join technology experts and prominent figures focused on improving accessibility:https://sighttechglobal.com/?mc_cid=0ceee3284d&mc_eid=eb245f25da
13) How to Use the Find Dialog in a PDF with NVDA | Quick Tips | YouTube
Thee Quinn kicks off a series of quick NVDA tips with this video on using the NVDA find feature:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1hAXzohJ0Vo
14) New Software Update for MantisTM Q40 & ChameleonTM 20 Braille Displays
Read the official release notes to find out what's new and improved for your Mantis or Chameleon Braille display. Note that installation instructions are included under relevant headings:https://www.aph.org/release-notes/
15) Braille Jumble - BrailleBug
Test your Braille skills with this fun, interactive online game from the American Printing House for the Blind:https://braillebug.org/games/braille-jumble/
16) Document Accessibility Training Videos | Section508.gov
Check out these great video tutorials from the Accessible Electronic Document Community of Practice (AED CoP). The series aims to ensure your Word, Excel, Power Point and PDF documents are accessible:https://www.section508.gov/create/documents/training-videos/
17) Windows 11 Tips And Tricks: 8 Hidden Settings You Need To Try
https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/windows-11-tips-and-tricks-8-hidden-settings/18) The Best Assistive Technology for Dyslexics | Wired
Whether you're grappling with homework or just trying to get things done, these tools will help your tech adapt to you — instead of the other way around:https://www.wired.com/story/the-best-assistive-technology-dyslexia/
19) Inserting Page Numbers In Your Header or Footer with NVDA — Quick Tips | Thee Quinn YouTube Channel
In this video, I show you how to insert page numbers into your word documents. I also share a trick which allows you to hear your page numbers:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P19Sxm6v0QM&t=30s
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Google Builds Equity Into The Pixel 6 With Real Tone Photos And New Voice Features
Google's new Pixel 6 range is designed to more accurately recognize different skin tones and accents. This is tipped to enhance photos, facial recognition, and greatly improve voice dictation and translation:https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/google-builds-equity-into-the-pixel-6-with-real-tone-photos-and-new-voice-features/#ftag=CAD590a51e
2) FDA Issues Proposed OTC Hearing Aid Rules
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued "a landmark proposal intended to improve access to and reduce the cost of hearing aid technology for millions of Americans," according to the agency's press release:https://www.hearingreview.com/hearing-products/hearing-aids/otc/fda-issues-proposed-otc-hearing-aid-rules
3) Want A Full Number Pad On Your Laptop? These Are Your Best Options
Whether it's for data entry, accounting, or just entering numbers and calculations with precision and speed, there are plenty of reasons to have a number pad on a laptop. Even though laptops are getting smaller, you can still purchase several excellent Windows laptops with full number pads. Every one of these devices has a full number pad, and each is one of the best Windows laptop picks in the category:https://www.windowscentral.com/best-windows-laptops-full-number-pads
4) New Chromebook Accessibility Feature Aims To Help People With Dyslexia
Google adds smoother-sounding voices to its Select-to-speak feature, which lets your laptop read selected text aloud:https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/googles-new-chromebook-accessibility-feature-aims-to-help-those-with-dyslexia/#ftag=CAD590a51e
5) Mesa, Arizona Debuts New Accessibility Technology for Blind and Low Vision Visitors
As part of Visit Mesa's on-going mission to ensure Mesa, Arizona is one of the nation's most accessible travel destinations, City of Mesa has become an Aira Access partner. Aira is now available at no-cost to residents as well as visitors who are blind or have low vision:https://aira.io/mesa-arizona-debuts-new-accessibility-technology-for-blind-and-low-vision-visitors
6) Deque Systems Adds Renowned Speakers to Axe-con 2022 Line-up
Prominent digital accessibility platform adds Tim Berners-Lee, Rachel Andrew, Regine Gilbert and more to industry-leading conference:https://www.deque.com/blog/deque-systems-adds-renowned-speakers-to-axe-con-2022-line-up/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Hadley Presents: A Conversation with the Experts | Considering a White Cane: Who? When? Why?
October 15th 2021 | In honor of White Cane Safety Day today, we're joined by Hadley learner Larry Carlson and Orientation and Mobility Specialist Elijah Haines for a conversation about this important tool. Larry shares what made him decide to use a white cane, and Elijah shares tips for what to consider and how to adjust to using a white cane:https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/considering-white-cane-who-when-why
2) Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther 36 | Exploring Eastern Townships on Motorbikes in Quebec
October 16th 2021 | On AMI Audio's program "Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther" we explore Quebec's Eastern Townships on motorbikes and more. Join Lawrence and Lilly as they pic apples, picnic on mountain tops, tour Quebec's Eastern Townships aboard motorbikes, and prepare a Thanksgiving feast complete with a deep-fried turkey. Lots of tips on riding aboard motorcycles blind, and expert advice on two versus three wheeled motorcycles:https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/episode-36-exploring-eastern-townships-on-motorbikes/id1530444764?i=1000538757180
3) Blind Android Users 45 | It's All About Braille
October 16th 2021 | In this episode, we talk about all thing's braille on Android. We show you how to connect a braille display to an android device, how to use braille back, and then comment on brltty and the status of braille on Android. We have a chat with the developers/ founders of Eyecan app which is an all in 1 tool for android, the app is still in beta and lots of features are being added. We then have talkback highlights in which we show how to manage custom labels:https://blindandroidusers.com/category/bauposts/shownotes/
4) Mosen At Large 153
October 16th 2021 Feedback from Windows 11 early adopters, Apple and Android discussion, and meet the Voxmate suite for Android:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/a86b2ff0/feedback-from-windows-11-early-adopters-apple-and-android-discussion-and-meet-the-voxmate-suite-for-android
5) Eyes on Success 2143 UN Resolution Commits Countries to Eye Care
October 20th 2021Many people around the world suffer from vision problems that are readily treatable. A new United Nations resolution aims to address this problem. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Jessica Thompson, Head of Policy and Advocacy at the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) about the resolution and what it hopes to accomplish:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202143.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Windows 11 Accessibility Overview by Microsoft
October 27th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Hector Minto, Lead Accessibility Evangelist, Accessibility Team. Jeremy Curry, Support Escalation Engineer, Accessibility Team. We are excited to share how we are empowering people with disabilities to achieve more with Windows 11. This webinar will focus on a broad overview of accessibility in Windows 11, including new Contrast themes, how Windows 11 makes accessibility features easier to find and use, and more:https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=v4j5cvGGr0GRqy180BHbRxkCFbE8eohLlKeYJpcMV_BUNEVEMU9UV1BOSFhTUEdROUY2MkxFMTI2MS4u&wdLOR=cB42744B7-5722-4A50-B929-6ECD7FA53FA6
2) Managing Folders, Files, and Drives With a Screen Reader Part 3 by Access Ingenuity
October 27th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity as they explain the File Explorer interface of Windows 10 and provide many examples and tips to manage your folders, files, and drives. Although this is a Part 3, attendees would still benefit from this even if they didn't attend Parts 1 and 2. In addition, please feel free to contact us if there's an interest in the Parts 1 and 2 recordings. Learning Outcomes: Provide more explanations and examples on how to work with the Tree View and List View and how they affect each other. Show practical examples for previously introduced methods to rename, select, cut, copy, paste, and delete files and folders. Demonstrate how to manage drives such as an SD Card for the Victor Reader, and how to work with syncing folders like OneDrive and Google Drive. | Meeting ID: 896 8577 0228 | Passcode: 483670 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,89685770228#,,,,*483670# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89685770228?pwd=QWtFcUpTTDZnWlBKMDhFZ2Y1VGNVQT09
3) Browsing the Web With JAWS Part 2 | Access Ingenuity
November 3rd 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Zhi Huang and Rachel Reeves from Access Ingenuity to explore the various methods to use JAWS to help increase your effectiveness when browsing the web. Even if you did not participate in part 1, you can still benefit from this presentation. Learning Outcomes: Review the JAWS Screen sensitive help to find out about general web page information, along with help with the element in focus. Use JAWS navigation quick keys and lists to navigate by forms, headings, links, regions, graphics, lists, list items, and tables. Introduce the Surf's Up tutorial from Freedom Scientific to help you practice navigating the web with JAWS. Better understand forms including different form fields and the Forms modes of JAWS. Meeting ID: 832 4240 0330 | Passcode: 372805 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83242400330#,,,,*372805# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83242400330?pwd=QXJMb2s1bzdYZUlHZElvYUJxa2VqUT09
4) Technology User Group (TUG) Annual Look at Assistive Technology Gadgets, Gizmos and Thingamajigs
November 6th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | On Saturday, November 6, the Technology User Group proudly presents our annual look at assistive technology gadgets, gizmos and thingamajigs. This showcase will help you select the perfect gift for the most important person in your life ... You! All items presented will cost $100 or less. You do not need to RSVP for this event. The presentation will begin at 10 AM and last about an hour. All Technology User Group meetings are virtual and may be joined by calling:(319) 527-4994 📱️
5) ATHEN (Access Technology Higher Education Network) 2021 Annual Meeting
November 9th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | All are welcome to attend the ATHEN Annual Meeting. Real-Time Captioning will be provided. If you would like to request any additional disability-related accommodations, please contact me at athenpresident@gmail.com 📧️ | Zoom meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87384816423
6) JAWS, Fusion, and ZoomText 2022 New Features | Access Ingenuity
November 10th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity to explore what's new in JAWS, Fusion, and ZoomText 2022! Learning Outcomes: Explain how to pin favorite commands when using ZoomText or Fusion. Demonstrate the modified ability to use both the ZoomText and JAWS assistance when using Fusion in 2022. Introduce the ability to split your screen reader speech and computer sound when using stereo headphones, great for Zoom meetings or other videoconferences. Explore additional features when available. Meeting ID: 825 7780 4526 | Passcode: 145893 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,82577804526#,,,,*145893# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82577804526?pwd=TkxhZm5lazJVbDYxb0NKcTZhbzE3dz09
7) Accessing Higher Ground Accessible Media, Web and Technology Conference by Association on Higher Education And Disability (AHEAD)
November 15th 2021 Through November 19th 2021 | Presented and hosted by AHEAD, Accessing Higher Ground is conducted in collaboration with ATHEN:https://accessinghigherground.org/
8) Using Windows 11 with a Screen Reader by Microsoft
November 17th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Jeff Bishop, Program Manager, Windows Engineering. Anne Taylor, Program Manager, Accessibility Team. Brett Humphrey, Program Manager, Teams Engineering. We are excited to share how we are empowering screen reader users to achieve more with what's coming in Windows 11. This webinar will focus on a broad overview of accessibility experiences in Windows 11. This includes new Start Menu interactions, a new Windows Settings experience, an all-new chat experience with your friends and family and more. New Windows hotkeys will also be introduced for things like Quick Settings, Notifications and others. Many of these features will be demoed using Narrator and third-party screen readers to give you a feel for the all new Windows 11 after you upgrade:https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=v4j5cvGGr0GRqy180BHbRxkCFbE8eohLlKeYJpcMV_BUM0dLREdQRjc4SjVPTFFVTUo2NkJDQjFVWi4u&wdLOR=cC2A08E94-B6B3-4D58-A1E9-E2A1EC1ACF56
9) New Braille Productivity Features While Working With Windows, JAWS, and the Focus Braille Displays | Access Ingenuity
November 17th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity as they explain the advantages of the new firmware upgrade for the Focus 5th generation braille displays, and introduce the new ElEdit application to allow you to increase your productivity with braille and print files on Windows. Learning Outcomes: Explain the new features of the firmware upgrade for the Focus 5th generation braille displays including turning on and off word wrap, turning off the feature requiring a pin to connect to Bluetooth devices, one-handed mode, Etc. Demonstrate how to get the upgrade and how to perform the firmware upgrade itself. Introduce the new ElEdit app for Windows and JAWS allowing the user to finally read BRF files both in braille and speech while using Windows! Explore additional features of the ElEdit app including the ability to quickly translate from braille to print, print to braille, print the document, emboss a document, send a document to Microsoft Word, and more! | Meeting ID: 863 6137 8742 | Passcode: 881387 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,86361378742#,,,,*881387# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86361378742?pwd=TE9hMUpOU2pZT3JYZHlqVkt4RCtldz09
10) Carroll Center For The Blind: 2021 Free Virtual Technology Fair
November 23rd 2021 | The Carroll Center for the Blind's Virtual Technology Fair is back! Supercharge your independence from the comfort of your living room, office or anywhere you can log on. Attend exciting and informative presentations, visit with assistive technology exhibitors in breakout rooms, and find the products and services you need to live as independently as possible. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the latest products for individuals who are visually impaired. Free and open to consumers, families, friends, and professionals — the Carroll Center for the Blind's Virtual Technology Fair is sure to impress! Have you registered yet? Register for the Virtual Technology Fair today:https://carroll.org/events/virtual-technology-fair-2021/
11) 2nd Annual Sight Tech Global 2021
December 1st & 2nd 2021 | 100% free. 100% virtual. Sight Tech Global is the first global, virtual conference dedicated to fostering discussion among technology pioneers on how rapid advances in AI and related technologies will fundamentally alter the landscape of assistive technology and accessibility. Registration is now open:https://sighttechglobal.com/
12) ATHEN (Access Technology Higher Education Network) 1st Annual "Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM) Accessibility: Starting with Math"
February 10th 2022 and February 11th 2022 | This virtual conference will take place on February 10th and 11th 2022. We are striving to create a diverse conference where experts can share their best practices, solutions, techniques, etc. for accessing and creating accessible STEM content in higher education. Join us! | Call for Proposal (Google Form) (Open now!) | Brush up by taking a sneak peek into the complexities in creating accessible STEM content in the YouTube video "Factors Involved in Making STEM Content Accessible" (10-minutes). | Conference Details, Dates, Registration, Cost:.https://athenpro.org/content/athen-virtual-conference
13) Axe-Con 2022
March 15th 2022 through March 17th 2022 | Axe-con is an open and inclusive digital accessibility conference that welcomes developers, designers, business users, and accessibility professionals of all experience levels to a new kind of accessibility conference focused on building, testing, and maintaining accessible digital experiences. Register for axe-con 2022, it's free! Join us for this three-day, multi-track conference to help further your digital accessibility efforts. Hear from the top experts in the field, for your area of interest with none of the noise. Learn more about why you should attend or get started by saving your seat by registering now:https://www.deque.com/axe-con/
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Cyclone Braille Embosser for Text or Graphics
Listing Date: 10/21/2021 | Price: $1,501.00 USD | Condition: Gently used. | Description: Lightweight, single-sided high quality embosser with speeds up to 60 characters per second. Includes Firebird Software Suite; Firebird Graphics Editor that allows you to produce Braille graphics in 12.5 and 17 DPI Flashdrive with manuals & setup guide. | Contact: Email karenxsantiago@msn.com 📧️ or (508) 854-1630 📱️. |2) FOR SALE: One Dell G7 7500 Laptop
Listing Date: 10/21/2021 | Price: $855.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Lightning fast, current Windows 10 64 bit, Jaws 2021 installed with no authorization. NVDA upon request. 15.6 inch display, Intel Core i7 at 2.6 Ghz, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD & power adapter. Retails for $1200.00. | Contact: Email karenxsantiago@msn.com 📧️ or (508) 854-1630 📱️. |3) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ Accessible Pharmacy Joins Be My Eyes
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Coding is Easy and Accessible with Colby the Code & Go Robot Mouse
https://www.aph.org/product/accessible-code-and-go-mouse/
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ GuideLights And Gadgets: New For Fall
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: HIMS, Inc.
➜ Order Now! Get The Most Powerful Android Notetaker Available, the BrailleSense 6 From HIMS. It's Simply The Best.
https://hims-inc.com/product/braillesense-6/
Sponsor Since: September 30th 2021
Website: https://hims-inc.com/ 🌐
Shop All Products: https://hims-inc.com/shop-all-products/ 🛒
Phone: (512) 837-2000 📱️
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5R9NjA1nfWo
Sales Email: sales@hims-inc.com 📧️
Support Email: support@hims-inc.com 📧️
About: HIMS, Inc. is a global manufacturer and distributor that has provided braille, magnification and accessible healthcare devices since 1999.
Sponsor: Blind Mice Mega Mall
➜ Modified Talking Black & Decker Toaster Oven Factory Directfrom E T S! Save $50 & Free U.S. Shipping
https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/bmm/shop/Item_Detail?itemid=5447225
Sponsor Since: September 23rd 2021
Website: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/ 🌐
Blind Mice Order Center Phone: (866) 922-8877 📱️
Blind Mice Order Center Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM CST/CDT (GMT-5) Monday through Friday
Mall Directory of Stores: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/bmm/shop/Directory 🛒
Join The Today's Cheese Newsletter: Join the Today's Cheese newsletter to get Members' Only sales & Unadvertised Specials from the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You can save money with these unadvertised specials! Send an email to: TodaysCheese+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
Blind Mice Swap Shop: Sell, Swap, and Buy. The Mice receive calls everyday asking if we buy or sell used or unwanted items. The Mice don't sell used products but to help our members, we created the Blind Mice Swap Shop! The Blind Mice Swap Shop is the place for Sellers, Traders, & Buyers to find each other! Do you ... have something you don't want anymore... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something you just don't use... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something new to sell... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Provide a service that might be helpful to other Blind and Visually Impaired folks... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Have an announcement about an upcoming event beneficial to the Blind & Visually Impaired Community... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Joining the Blind Mice Swap Shop is free and as easy as sending an email to: BlindMiceSwapShop+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
About: Welcome to Blind Mice Mega Mall! The Mall with the Blind In Mind! Blind Mice Mega Mall is designed for use with a screen reader and low vision software for visually impaired shoppers. Each store is an independent business owned / managed by a member of the Blind / Low Vision Community. Please browse & shop the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You will find great items and unique offerings from our merchants. You help the Blind Community every time you make a purchase from any of the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. Every purchase made at Blind Mice Mega Mall gives back to the Blind and Visually Impaired Community. Proceeds from sales fund the MouseHole Scholarship Program, the Cooking In The Dark Show and The Movie Vault. Blind Mice Mega Mall accepts American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, Checks, and Money Orders. Purchase Orders From State Agencies are also welcome.
Sponsor: Carroll Center for the Blind
➜ Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
https://carroll.org/screen-reader-user-tester-training-program/
Sponsor Since: August 5th 2021
Website: https://carroll.org/ 🌐
Phone: (617) 969-6200 📱️
Fax: (617) 969-6204 ░Shop: https://carroll.org/store/ 🛒
Donate: https://carroll.org/donate ❤
Social: Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | LinkedIn | Instagram
About: The Carroll Center for the Blind is the foremost leader in vision rehabilitation services for individuals confronted by the challenges of vision loss. Our mission is to empower those who are blind or visually impaired to achieve independence and to lead a fulfilling life. Established in 1936, the renowned Carroll Center for the Blind has been serving those with vision impairment for over eight decades; we are known nationally as a premier Vision Rehabilitation Center. Located just outside of Boston on a sprawling campus in Newton, Massachusetts, we proudly serve ALL ages and ALL stages of vision loss. With the ongoing promise of improving the lives of people with vision-related problems, The Carroll Center for the Blind has pioneered many innovative services allowing people who are blind or have low vision to learn the skills to be independent in their homes, in class settings, and in their work places. Our services include vision rehabilitation, vocational and transition programs, assistive technology training, educational support, and recreation opportunities for individuals who are visually impaired of all ages. For over 80 years, the expertise of Carroll Center staff has provided help for thousands of blind and visually impaired persons with diverse opportunities for success and independent living.
Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions
➜ The 50% Introductory Rate for Scribe for Meetings is Coming to a Close!
https://pneumasolutions.com/scribe-for-meetings-promotion-expiring-soon/
Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ VisionAware Resources Including the Directory of Services
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/102120211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
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|
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, October 14, 2021 - Volume 828 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, October 14, 2021 - Volume 828
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Top Tech Tidbits Brought To You By The Following 12 AT Industry Leaders:
This issue made possible by sponsorship support from: A. T. Guys, GuideLights And Gadgets, American Printing House, LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store, Be My Eyes, HumanWare, APH ConnectCenter, Freedom Scientific, Pneuma Solutions, Carroll Center for the Blind, Blind Mice Mega Mall and HIMS, Inc..
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) A List Of Removed Siri Voice Commands: Sending Emails, Checking Call History And More: (9.2% of all clicks.)https://www.idownloadblog.com/2021/09/30/removed-siri-voice-commands/
B.) What's Coming In Windows 11 Accessibility: (5.7% of all clicks.)
https://blogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/2021/07/01/whats-coming-in-windows-11-accessibility/
C.) What's New in JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion 2022 Public Beta 2: (4.9% of all clicks.)
https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/PublicBeta?utm_content=181751652
D.) Goodmaps Acquires The Sendero GPS Mobile Apps From Aira, Which Are Now Free!: (4.9% of all clicks.)
https://goodmaps.com/news/good-maps-acquires-the-sendero-gps-mobile-apps-from-aira-which-are-now-free
E.) Windows 11 Review: The Start Of A New Era: (4.9% of all clicks.)
https://www.windowscentral.com/windows-11
2) How I Use The Apple Pencil With Low Vision | Veroniiiica
When I recently upgraded to the iPad Air 4th Generation (also known as the Model A2316), I decided to get the Apple Pencil 2nd Generation, as my friend had talked about how much they enjoyed using it. I immediately started using it and noticed a significant improvement in how I interacted with content on my device, especially as a user with low vision and dysgraphia. After receiving questions about how I use the Apple Pencil with low vision from a professor at my university and a friend on Twitter, today I will be listing my favorite uses for the Apple Pencil and how I use it in the classroom, workplace, and beyond:https://veroniiiica.com/2021/09/18/how-i-use-the-apple-pencil-with-low-vision/
3) Youtube Doubles Down On Accessibility With These Caption And Audio Features
The new and upcoming features are meant to make the platform "more inclusive and accessible":https://www.androidcentral.com/youtube-accessibility-features-live-auto-caption-and-audio
4) Eyedaptic Eye3 AR Glasses
Equipped with patented simulated natural vision software, the Eyedaptic solution optimizes the user's functional peripheral vision. It does this through a small, embedded camera that captures the surroundings, manipulates, and enhances the pixels, and re-displays the image.https://nelowvision.com/product/eyedaptic-eye3-low-vision-wearable-glasses/
5) Google Improving Smartphone Accessibility
these new features for Android smartphones were developed with feedback from people who rely on alternative communication technology.https://www.disabilityscoop.com/2021/10/12/google-improving-smartphone-accessibility/29530/
6) Facebook Puts All Its Audio Features Into A New Tab
Facebook is expanding its investment in audio initiatives with the launch of a new "Audio" destination in its mobile app in the U.S., where users will be able to discover in one place all the audio formats Facebook now hosts, including podcasts, Live Audio Rooms, and short-form audio.https://techcrunch.com/2021/10/11/facebook-launches-a-audio-hub-in-the-u-s-for-podcasts-live-audio-and-short-form-clips/
7) Anker Announces Soundcore's First Audio Glasses, Priced At $200
These glasses are bone-conduction, making them useful for GPS navigation apps.https://www.theverge.com/2021/10/13/22713183/anker-soundcore-frames-glasses-price-specs
8) Fountain: A Markup Language For Screenwriting
Do you need to write a screenplay either for work, school or just as a hobby? Have you not been able to find an accessible screenwriting program? Try Fountain, a simple text markup language instead. There is no need for accessible software and visual formatting.https://fountain.io/
9) Air Pods Pro Can Help You Hear Conversations Better After Recent Firmware Update
Find out how to take advantage of this new accessibility enhancement for the Air Pods Pro range. You can also customize the volume of background noise to suit your hearing:https://www.theverge.com/2021/10/6/22713126/airpods-pro-conversation-boost-firmware-update
10) Quick Phrases Feature Now Rolling Out To Google Assistant
This new feature means you won't have to say "hey Google" before many common commands:https://www.androidauthority.com/google-assistant-quick-phrases-3036486/
11) How To Customize Accessibility Settings App By App On iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch
This official video from Apple shows you how to customize visual enhancements for individual Apps:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7sHaXuFb6uk
12) What's New In Microsoft 365 Accessibility Features For Fall 2021
Microsoft provide a comprehensive overview of the accessibility enhancements in Microsoft 365 products:https://blogs.microsoft.com/accessibility/m365-accessibility-fall-2021/
13) Voiceover In & Out 2021 YouTube Series by the Tech Juggernaut Team
Master Voiceover on your iPhone or iPad with the Tech Juggernaut crew and special guests. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss a session:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QZDkClse9gE
14) Accessibility Support For Teams For Your Personal Life
Microsoft Teams for personal use is built right into Windows 11. Learn the tips and tricks to use it effectively with a screen reader:https://support.microsoft.com/en-au/office/accessibility-support-for-teams-for-your-personal-life-067cf81d-6496-4a0d-b968-47d5d1a9a6e5
15) Dolphin and Windows 11
The team at Dolphin outline the plan to make all of their products fully compatible with Windows 11. A must read for Dolphin software users:https://blog.yourdolphin.com/blog/dolphin-and-windows-11
16) NV Access | Open Source Opens the Way!
Ever wanted to try the very capable and free NVDA screen reader but worried about the security of open source software? The official NV Access team provide this great article explaining the benefits and how it all works:https://www.nvaccess.org/post/open-source-opens-the-way/
17) Microsoft 365 Accessibility Features Fall 2021 Lineup: Here's What's New
Here's what Microsoft is doing to make its products, from Outlook to Office, more inclusive:https://www.windowscentral.com/microsoft-365-accessibility-features-fall-2021-lineup-heres-whats-new
18) Apple AirTags: Low Vision | Hadley Workshops
This set of 3 workshops include: 'AirTags Low Vision: Setting It Up,' 'AirTags Low Vision: Finding Nearby Items,' 'AirTags Low Vision: Finding Items Further Away:'https://hadley.edu/workshops/apple-airtags-low-vision-series
19) Eyes-Free Audio Tutorials for Band-in-a-Box Music Creators
We are proud to offer an audio-only, "eyes-free" set of tutorials for learning some of the intricacies of the Band-in-a-Box software. It is intended to benefit users who prefer the keystroke rather than the mouse-click approach. In this bundle, we take you through 7 key functions for music creation. These are chord entry, creating that first song, inserting and deleting bars, and four distinctly different methods for copying bars. Our presentations are relaxed and informative with illustrative examples of operating Band-in-a-Box. We have included exercise song files so that you can follow along and work through the processes with the tutorial examples. (10) mp3 audio tutorials totaling 82 minutes in duration. (8) Exercise Song files for you to use on your own machine. (3) Word document files, the largest is 17 pages of Function to Hotkey reference. We have set the price for this first bundle at $25 to make our product readily affordable. They can be purchased using PayPal. As soon as we receive your order, we will send a link to you ready for immediate download of the 120 megabyte zip file. Just inquire here via email:eyesfreebiab@gmail.com 📧️
20) Creating Inclusive Hybrid Work Experiences | What's New In Microsoft 365 Accessibility Features For Fall 2021
The theme for this year's National Disability Employment Awareness Month is "America's Recovery: Powered by Inclusion" — and within the hybrid workplace, technology is a crucial factor in determining how inclusive your workplace can be. For many employees with disabilities, it can mean the difference between performing at their best as an equal member of the team and being left out of the conversation entirely. Here are some of the improvements that have been made to accessibility in Microsoft 365 over the past few months:https://blogs.microsoft.com/accessibility/m365-accessibility-fall-2021/
21) Here Are All the Accesibility Features Built Into Your Apple Watch
Here is an overview of everything the Apple Watch has to offer in its accessibility menu:https://www.makeuseof.com/apple-watch-accessibility-features/
22) You Won't Need To Say 'Hey Google' Anymore For These Assistant Commands
One-word commands for answering phone calls or dismissing alarms are now a thing:https://www.androidauthority.com/google-assistant-quick-phrases-3036486/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Group Works to Make Beaches More Accessible
In TAMPA Florida, disability advocates are pushing for greater adoption of specialized semi-permanent mats that act like a boardwalk anchored to the sand so that people of all abilities can visit the beach:https://www.disabilityscoop.com/2021/10/12/group-works-beaches-accessible/29529/
2) Disability Employment Awareness Month: Creating a More Inclusive & Accessible Future of Work
The pandemic has uncovered many societal inequities. Among the most impacted by recent employment losses are the estimated 1 billion people worldwide currently living with a disability - a growing figure due to aging, and most recently, the long-term effects of COVID-19:https://www.marketscreener.com/quote/stock/SALESFORCE-COM-INC-12180/news/Disability-Employment-Awareness-Month-Creating-a-More-Inclusive-Accessible-Future-of-Work-36629897/
3) Funding Allows Safe Toddles To Study Benefits Of Safe Mobility Device For Blind Toddlers
For 40 percent of children born with a visual impairment, learning to walk independently is a difficult, if not dangerous challenge. In addition to not being able to see where they are going or to avoid obstacles, they are too small to hold and maneuver the standard white cane often used by visually impaired adults. For this reason, many young children who are blind experience harmful collisions or falls when they attempt to walk independently, and are, consequently, fearful of exploring the environment and slow to develop effective motor skills. The resulting delays in concept, language, motor, and social development in turn affect the ability of too many youngsters to grow into independent, self-confident adults:https://www.kpvi.com/news/national_news/funding-allows-safe-toddles-to-study-benefits-of-safe-mobility-device-for-blind-toddlers/article_2924639a-c400-5aad-bc91-c2c17d58a26d.html
4) Cox Communications Uses New Remote Feature Assisting Customers With Physical Disabilities
The Accessible Web Remote for Contour empowers those who have lost motor skills with the ability to browse the video guide with a glance:https://www.wowt.com/2021/10/05/cox-communications-uses-new-remote-feature-assisting-customers-with-physical-disabilities/
5) Lawline Announces A Suite Of Accessibility Options, Including The Ability To Add Closed Captioning To Their Entire Catalog Of On Demand Courses
Lawline, a leading Continuing Legal Education provider, announces new accessibility features, including the ability to add closed captioning on all 1,700+ On Demand courses, and options for users with visual, aural and motor impairments, cognitive disabilities, and more:https://www.prweb.com/releases/lawline_announces_a_suite_of_accessibility_options_including_the_ability_to_add_closed_captioning_to_their_entire_catalog_of_on_demand_courses/prweb18212878.htm
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Blind Android Users 44 | The Cloud is the Future
October 9th 2021 | We talk about our special events 50th Episode and 1 year celebration and how listeners can be a part by filling the form on our website. In our must have apps we talk about cloud storage and demo all the popular cloud storage apps. In our commentary screen reader segment, we see what is new with the latest update and how to use multi part gestures. In talkback highlights we see how to manage volumes and label unlabelled buttons. To listen to episodes go to:https://blindandroidusers.com/category/bauposts/shownotes/
2) Mosen At Large 152
October 9th 2021 Welcome to the world Windows 11, happy 10th birthday Siri, and a new book shares perspectives on being a disabled parent:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/077b8f1d/welcome-to-the-world-windows-11-happy-10th-birthday-siri-and-a-new-book-shares-perspectives-on-being-a-disabled-parent
3) Eyes on Success 2142 Birdability
October 13th 2021Birdability is an organization whose mission is to make birding accessible to all. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Freya McGregor, Birdability Coordinator and Occupational Therapist, and Michael Hurben, avid birder with vision loss, about the organization and how anyone can enjoy birding and the wonderful outdoors even if they can't leave their own home!
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202142.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) National Federation of the Blind DC State Convention
October 14th 2021 to October 16th 2021 | Get excited! The National Federation of the Blind DC State Convention is here! Convention will be virtual. Please register for the Convention using the link below. Hope to see you there! If you need any assistance, please call Chrichelle Brown at (202) 321-8650 📱️ or Joann Stephens at (202) 320-2843 📱️:https://surveyheart.com/form/6158c4cc0ffeb45d3b2df321
2) How Can Low Vision Products from Vispero Help You?
October 14th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Join Michael Wood & Michelle Williams for an informative and interactive webinar where we will discuss different eye conditions and discover what products might best meet the needs of those conditions. With incredible features like magnification, text to speech, contrast, and portability, you are bound to find a solution that works best for you, your clients, and your students. Learn how Text to Speech can help you read longer when your eyes tire. Learn how Screen Masking aids to increase word recognition and reading accuracy. Learn how Magnification can help with day-to-day tasks. ACVREP credits will be available for those who attend the live webinar. Register for this webinar to discover more about assistive technology and how it can help. All attendees over 18 years of age and living in the U.S. will have an opportunity to win a Pebble hand-held magnifier. One lucky attendee will be selected and notified via email after the webinar:https://bit.ly/3DeTzjM
3) How to Make an Accessible Excel Workbook by TPGi
October 19th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | This webinar provides best practices for making Excel spreadsheets accessible to disabled people. TPGi Accessibility Engineer, Aaron Farber, will review common accessibility issues within Excel spreadsheets and look at each accessibility issue first from the users' perspective, in how that issue affects them. The webinar then takes participants through the author's perspective and provides step-by-step instructions on how to fix that issue in their spreadsheet. Additionally, Aaron will answer the nuts-and-bolts questions such as compatibility between Excel and other operating systems like MacOS and the accessibility of other spreadsheet programs. Excel has released many new features such as Data from Picture; this webinar evaluates them through the lens of accessibility. Beyond building technical skills in Excel, participants will also learn whether WCAG applies to Excel spreadsheets. Register today:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-october-19-how-to-make-an-accessible-excel-workbook/
4) TypeAbility Typing Program With JAWS and Fusion by Access Ingenuity
October 20th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity, and the developer of TypeAbility, David Pinto from Yes Accessible to explore this program that works with JAWS and Fusion! Learning Outcomes: Explore the different options to customize TypeAbility. Discover the different features including typing lessons, typing race, academic tests, create your own lessons, etc. Preview the upcoming TypeAbility5 along with new features. | Meeting ID: 837 7304 4871 | Passcode: 593759 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83773044871#,,,,*593759# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83773044871?pwd=L2NMckhSamxmbFVaYUhTN1BSR0M1QT09
5) Windows 11 Accessibility Overview by Microsoft
October 27th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Hector Minto, Lead Accessibility Evangelist, Accessibility Team. Jeremy Curry, Support Escalation Engineer, Accessibility Team. We are excited to share how we are empowering people with disabilities to achieve more with Windows 11. This webinar will focus on a broad overview of accessibility in Windows 11, including new Contrast themes, how Windows 11 makes accessibility features easier to find and use, and more:https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=v4j5cvGGr0GRqy180BHbRxkCFbE8eohLlKeYJpcMV_BUNEVEMU9UV1BOSFhTUEdROUY2MkxFMTI2MS4u&wdLOR=cB42744B7-5722-4A50-B929-6ECD7FA53FA6
6) Managing Folders, Files, and Drives With a Screen Reader Part 3 by Access Ingenuity
October 27th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity as they explain the File Explorer interface of Windows 10 and provide many examples and tips to manage your folders, files, and drives. Although this is a Part 3, attendees would still benefit from this even if they didn't attend Parts 1 and 2. In addition, please feel free to contact us if there's an interest in the Parts 1 and 2 recordings. Learning Outcomes: Provide more explanations and examples on how to work with the Tree View and List View and how they affect each other. Show practical examples for previously introduced methods to rename, select, cut, copy, paste, and delete files and folders. Demonstrate how to manage drives such as an SD Card for the Victor Reader, and how to work with syncing folders like OneDrive and Google Drive. | Meeting ID: 896 8577 0228 | Passcode: 483670 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,89685770228#,,,,*483670# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89685770228?pwd=QWtFcUpTTDZnWlBKMDhFZ2Y1VGNVQT09
7) ATHEN (Access Technology Higher Education Network) 2021 Annual Meeting
November 9th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | All are welcome to attend the ATHEN Annual Meeting. Real-Time Captioning will be provided. If you would like to request any additional disability-related accommodations, please contact me at athenpresident@gmail.com 📧️ | Zoom meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87384816423
8) Accessing Higher Ground Accessible Media, Web and Technology Conference by Association on Higher Education And Disability (AHEAD)
November 15th 2021 Through November 19th 2021 | Presented and hosted by AHEAD, Accessing Higher Ground is conducted in collaboration with ATHEN:https://accessinghigherground.org/
9) Using Windows 11 with a Screen Reader by Microsoft
November 17th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Jeff Bishop, Program Manager, Windows Engineering. Anne Taylor, Program Manager, Accessibility Team. Brett Humphrey, Program Manager, Teams Engineering. We are excited to share how we are empowering screen reader users to achieve more with what's coming in Windows 11. This webinar will focus on a broad overview of accessibility experiences in Windows 11. This includes new Start Menu interactions, a new Windows Settings experience, an all-new chat experience with your friends and family and more. New Windows hotkeys will also be introduced for things like Quick Settings, Notifications and others. Many of these features will be demoed using Narrator and third-party screen readers to give you a feel for the all new Windows 11 after you upgrade:https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=v4j5cvGGr0GRqy180BHbRxkCFbE8eohLlKeYJpcMV_BUM0dLREdQRjc4SjVPTFFVTUo2NkJDQjFVWi4u&wdLOR=cC2A08E94-B6B3-4D58-A1E9-E2A1EC1ACF56
10) Carroll Center For The Blind: 2021 Free Virtual Technology Fair
November 23rd 2021 | The Carroll Center for the Blind's Virtual Technology Fair is back! Supercharge your independence from the comfort of your living room, office or anywhere you can log on. Attend exciting and informative presentations, visit with assistive technology exhibitors in breakout rooms, and find the products and services you need to live as independently as possible. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the latest products for individuals who are visually impaired. Free and open to consumers, families, friends, and professionals — the Carroll Center for the Blind's Virtual Technology Fair is sure to impress! Have you registered yet? Register for the Virtual Technology Fair today:https://carroll.org/events/virtual-technology-fair-2021/
11) 2nd Annual Sight Tech Global 2021
December 1st & 2nd 2021 | 100% free. 100% virtual. Sight Tech Global is the first global, virtual conference dedicated to fostering discussion among technology pioneers on how rapid advances in AI and related technologies will fundamentally alter the landscape of assistive technology and accessibility. Registration is now open:https://sighttechglobal.com/
12) ATHEN (Access Technology Higher Education Network) 1st Annual "Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM) Accessibility: Starting with Math"
February 10th 2022 and February 11th 2022 | This virtual conference will take place on February 10th and 11th 2022. We are striving to create a diverse conference where experts can share their best practices, solutions, techniques, etc. for accessing and creating accessible STEM content in higher education. Join us! | Call for Proposal (Google Form) (Open now!) | Brush up by taking a sneak peek into the complexities in creating accessible STEM content in the YouTube video "Factors Involved in Making STEM Content Accessible" (10-minutes). | Conference Details, Dates, Registration, Cost:.https://athenpro.org/content/athen-virtual-conference
13) Axe-Con 2022
March 15th 2022 through March 17th 2022 | Axe-con is an open and inclusive digital accessibility conference that welcomes developers, designers, business users, and accessibility professionals of all experience levels to a new kind of accessibility conference focused on building, testing, and maintaining accessible digital experiences. Register for axe-con 2022, it's free! Join us for this three-day, multi-track conference to help further your digital accessibility efforts. Hear from the top experts in the field, for your area of interest with none of the noise. Learn more about why you should attend or get started by saving your seat by registering now:https://www.deque.com/axe-con/
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ Accessible Pharmacy Joins Be My Eyes
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Coding is Easy and Accessible with Colby the Code & Go Robot Mouse
https://www.aph.org/product/accessible-code-and-go-mouse/
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ GuideLights And Gadgets: New For Fall
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: HIMS, Inc.
➜ Order Now! Get The Most Powerful Android Notetaker Available, the BrailleSense 6 From HIMS. It's Simply The Best.
https://hims-inc.com/product/braillesense-6/
Sponsor Since: September 30th 2021
Website: https://hims-inc.com/ 🌐
Shop All Products: https://hims-inc.com/shop-all-products/ 🛒
Phone: (512) 837-2000 📱️
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5R9NjA1nfWo
Sales Email: sales@hims-inc.com 📧️
Support Email: support@hims-inc.com 📧️
About: HIMS, Inc. is a global manufacturer and distributor that has provided braille, magnification and accessible healthcare devices since 1999.
Sponsor: Blind Mice Mega Mall
➜ VIP-3000 Talking Thermostat Now $199.99 & FreeShipping from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/bmm/shop/Item_Detail?itemid=3196066
Sponsor Since: September 23rd 2021
Website: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/ 🌐
Blind Mice Order Center Phone: (866) 922-8877 📱️
Blind Mice Order Center Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM CST/CDT (GMT-5) Monday through Friday
Mall Directory of Stores: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/bmm/shop/Directory 🛒
Join The Today's Cheese Newsletter: Join the Today's Cheese newsletter to get Members' Only sales & Unadvertised Specials from the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You can save money with these unadvertised specials! Send an email to: TodaysCheese+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
Blind Mice Swap Shop: Sell, Swap, and Buy. The Mice receive calls everyday asking if we buy or sell used or unwanted items. The Mice don't sell used products but to help our members, we created the Blind Mice Swap Shop! The Blind Mice Swap Shop is the place for Sellers, Traders, & Buyers to find each other! Do you ... have something you don't want anymore... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something you just don't use... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something new to sell... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Provide a service that might be helpful to other Blind and Visually Impaired folks... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Have an announcement about an upcoming event beneficial to the Blind & Visually Impaired Community... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Joining the Blind Mice Swap Shop is free and as easy as sending an email to: BlindMiceSwapShop+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
About: Welcome to Blind Mice Mega Mall! The Mall with the Blind In Mind! Blind Mice Mega Mall is designed for use with a screen reader and low vision software for visually impaired shoppers. Each store is an independent business owned / managed by a member of the Blind / Low Vision Community. Please browse & shop the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You will find great items and unique offerings from our merchants. You help the Blind Community every time you make a purchase from any of the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. Every purchase made at Blind Mice Mega Mall gives back to the Blind and Visually Impaired Community. Proceeds from sales fund the MouseHole Scholarship Program, the Cooking In The Dark Show and The Movie Vault. Blind Mice Mega Mall accepts American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, Checks, and Money Orders. Purchase Orders From State Agencies are also welcome.
Sponsor: Carroll Center for the Blind
➜ Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
https://carroll.org/screen-reader-user-tester-training-program/
Sponsor Since: August 5th 2021
Website: https://carroll.org/ 🌐
Phone: (617) 969-6200 📱️
Fax: (617) 969-6204 ░Shop: https://carroll.org/store/ 🛒
Donate: https://carroll.org/donate ❤
Social: Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | LinkedIn | Instagram
About: The Carroll Center for the Blind is the foremost leader in vision rehabilitation services for individuals confronted by the challenges of vision loss. Our mission is to empower those who are blind or visually impaired to achieve independence and to lead a fulfilling life. Established in 1936, the renowned Carroll Center for the Blind has been serving those with vision impairment for over eight decades; we are known nationally as a premier Vision Rehabilitation Center. Located just outside of Boston on a sprawling campus in Newton, Massachusetts, we proudly serve ALL ages and ALL stages of vision loss. With the ongoing promise of improving the lives of people with vision-related problems, The Carroll Center for the Blind has pioneered many innovative services allowing people who are blind or have low vision to learn the skills to be independent in their homes, in class settings, and in their work places. Our services include vision rehabilitation, vocational and transition programs, assistive technology training, educational support, and recreation opportunities for individuals who are visually impaired of all ages. For over 80 years, the expertise of Carroll Center staff has provided help for thousands of blind and visually impaired persons with diverse opportunities for success and independent living.
Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions
➜ The 50% Introductory Rate for Scribe for Meetings is Coming to a Close!
https://pneumasolutions.com/scribe-for-meetings-promotion-expiring-soon/
Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ VisionAware Resources Including the Information and Referral Line
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/101420211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
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|
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, October 7, 2021 - Volume 827 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, October 7, 2021 - Volume 827
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Top Tech Tidbits Brought To You By The Following 12 AT Industry Leaders:
This issue made possible by sponsorship support from: A. T. Guys, GuideLights And Gadgets, American Printing House, LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store, Be My Eyes, HumanWare, APH ConnectCenter, Freedom Scientific, Pneuma Solutions, Carroll Center for the Blind, Blind Mice Mega Mall and HIMS, Inc..
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) This Gadget Turns Your White Cane Into A Smart Cane: (15.2% of all clicks.)https://coolblindtech.com/this-gadget-turns-your-white-cane-into-a-smart-cane/
B.) A Quick Guide to Windows 11 Accessibility: (10.0% of all clicks.)
https://www.onmsft.com/feature/windows-11-accessibility
C.) How Can You Read Product Labels If You Are Blind Or Have Low Vision? From the Insight4Blind YouTube Channel: (6.4% of all clicks.)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2XCJd6H8V7A
D.) Amazon's Astro Robot Is A 24-Hour Security Guard And Smart Assistant All Rolled Into One: (6.1% of all clicks.)
https://www.techradar.com/news/amazons-astro-robot-is-a-24-hour-security-guard-and-smart-assistant-all-rolled-into-one
E.) Microsoft 'Adaptive Kit' Makes Surface Devices More Accessible: (4.8% of all clicks.)
https://www.pcmag.com/news/microsoft-adaptive-kit-makes-surface-devices-more-accessible
1) A List Of Removed Siri Voice Commands: Sending Emails, Checking Call History And More
If you have suspected Siri does not work as well as it used to since upgrading to iOS 15, you're right. Apple has removed certain commands from Siri in iOS 15. iDownload Blog has the complete list:https://www.idownloadblog.com/2021/09/30/removed-siri-voice-commands/
2) Apple Accessibility Responds To David Goldfield Regarding Lost Siri Functionality
David Goldfield of the Tech-VI List recently wrote to Apple Accessibility regarding the recent loss of Siri functionality and has received the following positive response. Hello David. Thank you for your email. We apologize for the inconvenience this has caused, and we are working to reinstate some Siri Email and Phone actions, which were temporarily removed as part of updates to improve Siri. You will be able to ask Siri to write, send, and check unread emails in the coming weeks. Reinstating Siri actions to check call history and voicemail will take a bit more time, and we will bring back this functionality in an upcoming iOS software update. Sincerely. Apple Accessibility. Join the Tech-VI mailing list by sending a blank email to:tech-vi+subscribe@groups.io 📧️
3) Focus Blue 5th Generation Firmware Downloads
Freedom Scientific has released a firmware update to its focus 5th generation braille displays. There are enhancements for the Scratchpad, one-handed mode, Bluetooth pairing, and flash messages. To read about the enhancements and for instruction on downloading and updating the Focus 5th generation, go to:https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/Focus/Focus5Downloads
4) Free Gaming Accessibility Fundamentals Course Announced By Xbox
Microsoft has announced that a new course on gaming accessibility fundamentals on the MSLearn platform. Modules within the course will include introducing people to gaming and disability core concepts, with tips on how to collaborate with the disability community, how the community can help inform accessible design, common gaming assistive technologies, and best practices for games, platforms, and hardware:https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/gaming/accessibility/gaf-info
5) Braille Institute's Atkinson Hyperlegible Typeface Now Available On Google Fonts
Braille Institute's "Atkinson Hyperlegible" font family is now available on Google Fonts. This typeface was designed specifically to help with legibility and to improve readability for people with low vision and was named after Braille Institute's founder, Robert J. Atkinson:https://brailleinstitute.org/blog/press-releases/braille-institutes-atkinson-hyperlegible-typeface-now-available-on-google-fonts
6) What's New in JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion 2022 Public Beta 2:
Fusion, Jaws, and Zoomtext versions 2022 are out. audio routing, Microsoft Office apps, braille language switching, and Voice Assistant are among the improvements.https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/PublicBeta?utm_content=181751652
7) A One-Handed Writer's Search for the Perfect Mechanical Keyboard
This article from Britt H. Young of the wirecutter reviews several one-handed keyboards, making several salient points, not only about one-handed keyboard accessibility, but general assistive technology hardware as well:https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/blog/search-for-the-perfect-mechanical-keyboard/
8) What's Coming In Windows 11 Accessibility
Windows 11 was released on Tuesday, October 5th. While there are few changes to accessibility features in Windows 10, "Ease of Access" has been rebranded to "Accessibility," in hopes of making those features easier to find:https://blogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/2021/07/01/whats-coming-in-windows-11-accessibility/
9) Windows 11 Review: The Start Of A New Era
Windows 11 was launched on 5 October 2021. The Windows Central Team provide a comprehensive review:https://www.windowscentral.com/windows-11
10) Goodmaps Acquires The Sendero GPS Mobile Apps From Aira, Which Are Now Free!
Goodmaps now own the Sendero GPS Apps. This means that the Seeing Eye GPS, RNIB Navigator and Guide Dogs NSW Apps will be re-branded, improved, and free!https://goodmaps.com/news/good-maps-acquires-the-sendero-gps-mobile-apps-from-aira-which-are-now-free
11) Alexa Will Now Let You Take Longer To Ask A Question
Ever wish you had a little more time when talking to Alexa? Enable this great new feature so Alexa listens for longer:https://www.theverge.com/2021/10/5/22711570/amazon-alexa-more-time-to-speak-type-question-android
12) How To Turn Off 120Hz On The iPhone 13 Pro And iPhone 13 Pro Max
If the new 120Hz refresh rate on the iPhone 13 doesn't interest you, learn how to turn it off to save battery:https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-disable-120hz-promotion-iphone/
13) Understanding The Symbol Pronunciation Dialog In NVDA | Youtube
Tune in to this great audio demonstration of how to use the Punctuation / Symbol Pronunciation Feature of NVDA:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XrNQSIPNj0E
14) Chameleon Say What? Text to Speach and More on the Chameleon 20 (YouTube Video)
The Chameleon has a voice! Text to Speech is coming soon to this portable and powerful braille device. Learn about this new feature from product manager William Freeman & Donna McClure-Rogers and be the first to hear about updates to the Chameleon 20 such as Spanish language support and one-handed mode:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TNe9CcDr0jI
15) New Features Available in Goodmaps Explorer: GPS App For iOS
You can now create an account in Explore. For those with proper access, this will reveal restricted buildings, rooms, and POIs which you can explore in person or virtually. New features are coming soon that require an Explore account. Sign up today under the More Tab. Also, POIs and rooms can now include extra information like relevant websites, links to audio files, information about the POI, and more!https://apps.apple.com/us/app/goodmaps-explore/id1524698552
16) Applevis Unlimited: What's New and Noteworthy for September 2021
https://www.applevis.com/newsletter/applevis-unlimited-whats-new-and-noteworthy-september-202117) Microsoft Announces New Xbox Accessibility Features
Microsoft continues its journey to make gaming more inclusive by announcing significant accessibility enhancements for Xbox:https://au.pcmag.com/microsoft-xbox-games/89865/microsoft-announces-new-xbox-accessibility-features
18) NUST MISIS Engineers Develop VibroBraille Communicator For Deafblind
VibroBraille is a small game console-like device that translates Braille text into synthesized speech and vice versa, with six buttons on the front panel and built-in tactile elements that transmit signals to the user at their fingertips like in the Braille system. The device works together with a mobile application, connected via Bluetooth. In the dictionary of meanings, implemented in the application, each Braille character corresponds to a letter of the alphabet, so words are converted into tactile signals and vice versa:https://coolblindtech.com/nust-misis-engineers-develop-vibrobraille-communicator-for-deafblind/
19) Android 12 Has Been Released: Here's What's New In It
https://www.ghacks.net/2021/10/04/android-12-has-been-released-heres-whats-new-in-it/➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) A Gene-Editing Experiment Let These Patients with Vision Loss See Color Again
A study was released which showed improved vision for some patients who underwent an experimental gene editing procedure. NPR has the story in both text and audio formats:https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2021/09/29/1040879179/vision-loss-crispr-treatment
2) Remote Work Has Finally Made Me - A Legally-Blind Person - Feel Like I Can Thrive At My Job. I'm Sad It Took This Long.
As someone in the blind and low-vision community, the expansion of remote work has been an economic game-changer. Normally, people with visual impairments face major hurdles in the workforce, from overcoming hiring discrimination to securing reliable transportation — less than half of US adults with visual impairments were in the labor force in 2019:https://www.businessinsider.com/legally-blind-low-vision-how-remote-work-changed-career-2021-9
3) Agreement Reached To Make NY Emergency Alerts Accessible For Blind People
Blind people will soon have access to potentially lifesaving information about emergencies like pending storms and hazards on NY-Alert, the New York state mass notification system, due to an agreement reached between advocates and state officials:https://www.newsday.com/news/region-state/emergency-alerts-new-york-blind-people-lawsuit-1.50376013
4) Original Voice Of Siri Promotes AI-Powered Web Accessibility
Susan Bennett revealed back in 2013 that she only found out by chance that she had become the original voice of Siri. She's now taking advantage of her accidental fame to promote a new approach to web usability:https://9to5mac.com/2021/09/30/original-voice-of-siri-web-accessibility/
5) CRISPR Gene-Editing Experiment Partly Restores Vision In Legally Blind Patients
A lot of work is being done in the fields of CRISPR gene-editing, and recently the revolutionary therapy was used to partially restore the vision in patients with a rare genetic disorder:https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/crispr-gene-editing-experiment-partly-restores-vision-in-legally-blind-patients/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Hadley Presents: A Conversation with the Experts | Traveling with Vision Loss: Tips from the TSA
October 1st 2021Supriya Raman, manager of the Disability and Multicultural branches of the TSA, shares tips on traveling among shifting COVID restrictions. Supriya covers what to expect at the airport and what resources are available for people with visual impairment:
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/traveling-vision-loss-tips-tsa
2) Blind Android Users 43 | Back That Thing Up!
October 2nd 2021 | In this episode we celebrated Google's and Android's Birthdays. In our must have app backup utilities, we demo Alpha Backup Pro. We have a very inspiring chat with Sheneille from Theequinn YouTube Channel. Joseph does an unboxing of the Galaxy Z Fold 3. And then we have the 9th highlights of talkback:https://blindandroidusers.com/
3) Mosen At Large 151
October 2nd 2021 Goodmaps acquires the former Sendero GPS mobile apps and makes them free, adventures in Android, and Siri loses smarts:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/4b7acb0c/goodmaps-acquires-the-former-sendero-gps-mobile-apps-and-makes-them-free-adventures-in-android-and-siri-loses-smarts
4) Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther Episode 35: Four-Wheeling and Having a Blast
October 2nd 2021 On this episode of Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther presented by AMI Audio, Lawrence, Lilly and Lewis head out of the city and into the Calabogie Hills. Their mission is to do some four-wheeling and have a blast. Sitting on the shore of a lake with a hydroelectric dam, Lawrence reflects on the electrification of the machines upon which people who live in rural, remote and northern parts of Canada depend. Be sure to check out all the action, and get the facts to determine whether an ATV or Side-by-side is for you.:https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/episode-35-four-wheeling-and-having-a-blast/id1530444764?i=1000537290919
5) Eyes on Success 2141 Just A Leap of Faith
October 6th 2021People who are visually impaired are no strangers to participating in sports. On the other hand, it is difficult to imagine jumping over a 10 or 12 foot high bar without seeing the bar. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Bradly Rainwater, a competitive blind pole vaulter, and his coach and grandfather Brad Rainwater about how it can be done:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202141.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) The 3rd Annual Digital Accessibility Legal Summit
October 7th 2021 through October 8th 2021 | American University Washington College of Law, Washington, D.C. This event is primarily Online, with in-person participation options still to be determined. Please note that this Summit is in the same week and in the same vicinity as the M-Enabling Summit. The premier annual event for digital accessibility legal practioners. In-depth talks and panels. Featuring leaders from the digital accessibility and legal fields. Tackling big practice issues:https://accessibility.legal/
2) GAconf | A Game Development Conference Dedicated to Making Games More Accessible to Gamers with Disabilities, Hosted by the IGDA's Accessibility SIG
October 11th 2021 through October 12th 2021 | The full line-up has been announced for the free-to-attend online edition of accessibility conference GAconf, taking place on October 11th-12th 2021. GAconf is a game development conference dedicated to making games more accessible to gamers with disabilities, hosted by the IGDA's accessibility SIG. The event features talks and networking for all disciplines of the games industry, exploring recent and future advances in game accessibility. The 2021 event will be free to attend and held through video conferencing and Discord. Topics include Far Cry 6's methodology for accessibility user research, how the Diablo 2 team tackled accessibility of remasters, audio description for blind gamers, Insomniac's journey through Spider-Man, Miles Morales and Ratchet & Clank: A Rift Apart; case studies on indie accessibility gems The Vale and The Big Con, how to communicate complex information through sound for blind gamers, panel discussion on representation of disabled characters, lived experiences of gaming with motor impairments, what legally blind gamers see, how to make horror games scary for all? players, how Roblox enables and supports accessibility of user generated content, and more! Speakers include indie accessibility superstars Falling Squirrel and Mighty Yell through to AAAs and publishers like EA, Insomniac, Blizzard and Ubisoft, and disabled gamers advocates and specialists such as Paul Amadeus Lane, James Rath, and Courtney Craven:https://www.gaconf.com/
3) Navigating the VR System: Services are Better When We Work Together
October 13th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | For people with blindness or low vision who are receiving VR services or are considering applying, it is important to understand how the process works. In this webinar, the role of the rehabilitation team will be discussed with a primary focus on the consumer and rehabilitation counselor relationship. This webinar will include a panel of past VR consumers who are gainfully employed and practicing VR counselors:https://www.ntac.blind.msstate.edu/consumers/webinars-podcasts
4) Undertaking JAWS Screen Reader Compatibility Testing in Real Life by TPGi
October 13th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Experience a real-world scenario exhibiting the synergy between the JAWS screen reader and TPGi's JAWS compatibility testing tool, JAWS Inspect, as part of the accessibility QA process. Webinar attendees will observe the interaction between a real JAWS user struggling with a poorly designed web page and a TPGi accessibility tester making sense of the JAWS user's accessibility challenges via the power of JAWS Inspect. JAWS Inspect provides text output of the JAWS audio speech to enable non-JAWS users to efficiently test for screen reader compatibility. Attendees will get a first-hand look at how to use this tool alongside JAWS (or by itself) for quick and easy testing. Register at:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-october-13-at-12pm-et-undertaking-jaws-screen-reader-compatibility-testing-in-real-life/
5) Using Zoom Meeting on a PC With a Screen Reader by Access Ingenuity
October 13th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Recently, we learned that while many attend our weekly Zoom Presentations, a lot of people are doing this by calling or using the mobile app. This resulted in several requests for tips on attending Zoom presentations on a PC using a Screen Reader. Join Ian Ramos, Mark Schafer, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity as they share tips and different methods on using a keyboard to quickly access popular features on the zoom desktop app. Learning Outcomes: Explain the differences between the desktop app and web interface and the benefits of the desktop app while using screen readers. Discuss first time set up including downloading and installing app, first time prompts, and whether or not you need to sign in for different presentations. Explore different ways to navigate the interface with a keyboard including various hot keys to mute and unmute audio, mute and unmute video, raise and lower hand, work with chat, view users, start and stop recording, share screen, etc. | Meeting ID: 899 0594 3325 | Passcode: 246915 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,89905943325#,,,,*246915# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89905943325?pwd=WFE4cUVtN0xIbGpvVGJ4amw0UUhKdz09
6) How Can Low Vision Products from Vispero Help You?
October 14th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Join Michael Wood & Michelle Williams for an informative and interactive webinar where we will discuss different eye conditions and discover what products might best meet the needs of those conditions. With incredible features like magnification, text to speech, contrast, and portability, you are bound to find a solution that works best for you, your clients, and your students. Learn how Text to Speech can help you read longer when your eyes tire. Learn how Screen Masking aids to increase word recognition and reading accuracy. Learn how Magnification can help with day-to-day tasks. ACVREP credits will be available for those who attend the live webinar. Register for this webinar to discover more about assistive technology and how it can help. All attendees over 18 years of age and living in the U.S. will have an opportunity to win a Pebble hand-held magnifier. One lucky attendee will be selected and notified via email after the webinar:https://bit.ly/3DeTzjM
7) How to Make an Accessible Excel Workbook by TPGi
October 19th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | This webinar provides best practices for making Excel spreadsheets accessible to disabled people. TPGi Accessibility Engineer, Aaron Farber, will review common accessibility issues within Excel spreadsheets and look at each accessibility issue first from the users' perspective, in how that issue affects them. The webinar then takes participants through the author's perspective and provides step-by-step instructions on how to fix that issue in their spreadsheet. Additionally, Aaron will answer the nuts-and-bolts questions such as compatibility between Excel and other operating systems like MacOS and the accessibility of other spreadsheet programs. Excel has released many new features such as Data from Picture; this webinar evaluates them through the lens of accessibility. Beyond building technical skills in Excel, participants will also learn whether WCAG applies to Excel spreadsheets. Register today:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-october-19-how-to-make-an-accessible-excel-workbook/
8) TypeAbility Typing Program With JAWS and Fusion by Access Ingenuity
October 20th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity, and the developer of TypeAbility, David Pinto from Yes Accessible to explore this program that works with JAWS and Fusion! Learning Outcomes: Explore the different options to customize TypeAbility. Discover the different features including typing lessons, typing race, academic tests, create your own lessons, etc. Preview the upcoming TypeAbility5 along with new features. | Meeting ID: 837 7304 4871 | Passcode: 593759 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83773044871#,,,,*593759# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83773044871?pwd=L2NMckhSamxmbFVaYUhTN1BSR0M1QT09
9) Managing Folders, Files, and Drives With a Screen Reader Part 3 by Access Ingenuity
October 27th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity as they explain the File Explorer interface of Windows 10 and provide many examples and tips to manage your folders, files, and drives. Although this is a Part 3, attendees would still benefit from this even if they didn't attend Parts 1 and 2. In addition, please feel free to contact us if there's an interest in the Parts 1 and 2 recordings. Learning Outcomes: Provide more explanations and examples on how to work with the Tree View and List View and how they affect each other. Show practical examples for previously introduced methods to rename, select, cut, copy, paste, and delete files and folders. Demonstrate how to manage drives such as an SD Card for the Victor Reader, and how to work with syncing folders like OneDrive and Google Drive. | Meeting ID: 896 8577 0228 | Passcode: 483670 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,89685770228#,,,,*483670# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89685770228?pwd=QWtFcUpTTDZnWlBKMDhFZ2Y1VGNVQT09
10) ATHEN (Access Technology Higher Education Network) 2021 Annual Meeting
November 9th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | All are welcome to attend the ATHEN Annual Meeting. Real-Time Captioning will be provided. If you would like to request any additional disability-related accommodations, please contact me at athenpresident@gmail.com 📧️ | Zoom meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87384816423
11) Accessing Higher Ground Accessible Media, Web and Technology Conference by Association on Higher Education And Disability (AHEAD)
November 15th 2021 Through November 19th 2021 | Presented and hosted by AHEAD, Accessing Higher Ground is conducted in collaboration with ATHEN:https://accessinghigherground.org/
12) 2nd Annual Sight Tech Global 2021
December 1st & 2nd 2021 | 100% free. 100% virtual. Sight Tech Global is the first global, virtual conference dedicated to fostering discussion among technology pioneers on how rapid advances in AI and related technologies will fundamentally alter the landscape of assistive technology and accessibility. Registration is now open:https://sighttechglobal.com/
13) ATHEN (Access Technology Higher Education Network) 1st Annual "Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM) Accessibility: Starting with Math"
February 10th 2022 and February 11th 2022 | This virtual conference will take place on February 10th and 11th 2022. We are striving to create a diverse conference where experts can share their best practices, solutions, techniques, etc. for accessing and creating accessible STEM content in higher education. Join us! | Call for Proposal (Google Form) (Open now!) | Brush up by taking a sneak peek into the complexities in creating accessible STEM content in the YouTube video "Factors Involved in Making STEM Content Accessible" (10-minutes). | Conference Details, Dates, Registration, Cost:.https://athenpro.org/content/athen-virtual-conference
14) Axe-Con 2022
March 15th 2022 through March 17th 2022 | Axe-con is an open and inclusive digital accessibility conference that welcomes developers, designers, business users, and accessibility professionals of all experience levels to a new kind of accessibility conference focused on building, testing, and maintaining accessible digital experiences. Register for axe-con 2022, it's free! Join us for this three-day, multi-track conference to help further your digital accessibility efforts. Hear from the top experts in the field, for your area of interest with none of the noise. Learn more about why you should attend or get started by saving your seat by registering now:https://www.deque.com/axe-con/
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Perfect BrailleSense Polaris 32
Listing Date: 9/16/2021 | Price: $1,450.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: We have one unused Hims Braille Sense Polaris 32. This notetaker has powerful built-in capabilities and can also be used as a 32 cell Braille display and Braille keyboard for your computer and/or phone. | Contact: Email cs567eml@gmail.com 📧️ or (408) 659-1374 📱️. |2) FOR SALE: One Victor Reader Stream TREK
Listing Date: 9/16/2021 | Price: $60.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: This VR TREK will need a new battery, and the small clip that holds the battery in is broken, you may be able to have this fixed, or you could just use tape to hold the battery in. Other than that it works just fine. Comes with its originall carrying case. | Contact: Email jflower418@gmail.com 📧️. |3) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
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About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Build A Foundational Understanding Of Construction And Electronics With BRIC: Structures® Access Kit From APH - An Adapted Version Of An Educational Elenco® Product For Students Who Are Blind And Visually Impaired!
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
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YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ GuideLights And Gadgets: New For Fall
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
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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: A. T. Guys
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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: HIMS, Inc.
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About: HIMS, Inc. is a global manufacturer and distributor that has provided braille, magnification and accessible healthcare devices since 1999.
Sponsor: Blind Mice Mega Mall
➜ VIP-3000 Talking Thermostat Now $199.99 & FreeShipping from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
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Blind Mice Order Center Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM CST/CDT (GMT-5) Monday through Friday
Mall Directory of Stores: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/bmm/shop/Directory 🛒
Join The Today's Cheese Newsletter: Join the Today's Cheese newsletter to get Members' Only sales & Unadvertised Specials from the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You can save money with these unadvertised specials! Send an email to: TodaysCheese+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
Blind Mice Swap Shop: Sell, Swap, and Buy. The Mice receive calls everyday asking if we buy or sell used or unwanted items. The Mice don't sell used products but to help our members, we created the Blind Mice Swap Shop! The Blind Mice Swap Shop is the place for Sellers, Traders, & Buyers to find each other! Do you ... have something you don't want anymore... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something you just don't use... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something new to sell... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Provide a service that might be helpful to other Blind and Visually Impaired folks... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Have an announcement about an upcoming event beneficial to the Blind & Visually Impaired Community... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Joining the Blind Mice Swap Shop is free and as easy as sending an email to: BlindMiceSwapShop+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
About: Welcome to Blind Mice Mega Mall! The Mall with the Blind In Mind! Blind Mice Mega Mall is designed for use with a screen reader and low vision software for visually impaired shoppers. Each store is an independent business owned / managed by a member of the Blind / Low Vision Community. Please browse & shop the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You will find great items and unique offerings from our merchants. You help the Blind Community every time you make a purchase from any of the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. Every purchase made at Blind Mice Mega Mall gives back to the Blind and Visually Impaired Community. Proceeds from sales fund the MouseHole Scholarship Program, the Cooking In The Dark Show and The Movie Vault. Blind Mice Mega Mall accepts American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, Checks, and Money Orders. Purchase Orders From State Agencies are also welcome.
Sponsor: Carroll Center for the Blind
➜ Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
https://carroll.org/screen-reader-user-tester-training-program/
Sponsor Since: August 5th 2021
Website: https://carroll.org/ 🌐
Phone: (617) 969-6200 📱️
Fax: (617) 969-6204 ░Shop: https://carroll.org/store/ 🛒
Donate: https://carroll.org/donate ❤
Social: Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | LinkedIn | Instagram
About: The Carroll Center for the Blind is the foremost leader in vision rehabilitation services for individuals confronted by the challenges of vision loss. Our mission is to empower those who are blind or visually impaired to achieve independence and to lead a fulfilling life. Established in 1936, the renowned Carroll Center for the Blind has been serving those with vision impairment for over eight decades; we are known nationally as a premier Vision Rehabilitation Center. Located just outside of Boston on a sprawling campus in Newton, Massachusetts, we proudly serve ALL ages and ALL stages of vision loss. With the ongoing promise of improving the lives of people with vision-related problems, The Carroll Center for the Blind has pioneered many innovative services allowing people who are blind or have low vision to learn the skills to be independent in their homes, in class settings, and in their work places. Our services include vision rehabilitation, vocational and transition programs, assistive technology training, educational support, and recreation opportunities for individuals who are visually impaired of all ages. For over 80 years, the expertise of Carroll Center staff has provided help for thousands of blind and visually impaired persons with diverse opportunities for success and independent living.
Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions
➜ The 50% Introductory Rate for Scribe for Meetings is Coming to a Close!
https://pneumasolutions.com/scribe-for-meetings-promotion-expiring-soon/
Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ VisionAware Resources: The Reader's Digest Getting Started Guide to Vision
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/100720211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ Accessible Pharmacy Joins Be My Eyes
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
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|
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, September 30, 2021 - Volume 826 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, September 30, 2021 - Volume 826
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: HIMS, Inc. Sponsors Top Tech Tidbits! No More Sponsorship Packages Currently Available. This Issue Brought To You By The Following 12 AT Industry Leaders:
This issue made possible by sponsorship support from: A. T. Guys, GuideLights And Gadgets, American Printing House, LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store, Be My Eyes, HumanWare, APH ConnectCenter, Freedom Scientific, Pneuma Solutions, Carroll Center for the Blind, Blind Mice Mega Mall and HIMS, Inc..
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) What's New in iOS 15 Accessibility for Blind and DeafBlind Users: (13.5% of all clicks.)https://www.applevis.com/blog/whats-new-ios-15-accessibility-blind-and-deafblind-users
B.) NVDA Beats VoiceOver In These 7 Important Ways. Every. Single. Time.: (8.8% of all clicks.)
https://iphonearena.com/nvda-vs-voiceover/
C.) The Accessibility Bugs Introduced and Resolved in iOS 15 and iPadOS 15 for Blind and Low Vision Users: (5.9% of all clicks.)
https://www.applevis.com/blog/accessibility-bugs-introduced-and-resolved-ios-15-and-ipados-15-blind-and-low-vision-users
D.) Cash Reader: The Best Money Reader For The Blind: (5.6% of all clicks.)
https://iphonearena.com/cash-reader-review-money-identifier-app-for-blind/
E.) 4,881 Free Online Courses from Top Universities (Updated Weekly): (4.7% of all clicks.)
https://coursemarks.com/trending/free-online-courses-by-top-universities/
2) Now Sponsoring Top Tech Tidbits: HIMS, Inc. | No More Sponsorship Packages Currently Available
Please join all of us here at Tidbits in welcoming aboard HIMS, Inc., who has so very graciously agreed to support the ongoing distribution of Top Tech Tidbits by becoming a sponsor. If you look forward to Tidbits every week, it is sponsors like HIMS, Inc. that make it possible. If you would still like to become a Top Tech Tidbits sponsor please consider joining our waiting list so that you can be informed the moment a package becomes available. Simply drop our publisher a note today at: publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️. Or learn more at:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
3) Accesskit: A New Open-Source Project To Help Make More Apps Accessible
The goal of AccessKit is to provide shared infrastructure for making apps accessible, across as many platforms and programming languages as possible. With AccessKit, a developer working with multiple platforms won't have to implement accessibility for each platform from scratch:https://pneumasolutions.com/accesskit-a-new-open-source-project-to-help-make-more-apps-accessible/
4) Microsoft 'Adaptive Kit' Makes Surface Devices More Accessible
Microsoft has developed a new accessory kit that promises to make the company's Surface products easier to use for people with disabilities:https://www.pcmag.com/news/microsoft-adaptive-kit-makes-surface-devices-more-accessible
5) How Can You Read Product Labels If You Are Blind Or Have Low Vision? From the Insight4Blind YouTube Channel
One of the biggest barriers to independence in the kitchen for people with vision loss is access to product labels. However, people with low vision or no vision have more resources today than ever before. Check out this video on the Insight4Blind channel to discover a variety of options for accessing the information you need to get cooking with confidence. No vision required:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2XCJd6H8V7A
6) This Gadget Turns Your White Cane Into A Smart Cane
This small connected accessory that fits onto a regular white cane can help blind and visually impaired people move around more safely. This accessory detects all nearby obstacles, including those at head height, which generally go undetected with a standard white cane:https://coolblindtech.com/this-gadget-turns-your-white-cane-into-a-smart-cane/
7) New Android Features Coming This Season
With Android, you can look forward to your device getting better and better throughout the year. From accessibility to Android Auto to features that make your life just a little easier, like Assistant and Gboard, we're rolling out new features that help you do more, stay secure and have more fun with your Android phone:https://blog.google/products/android/new-android-features-coming-season/
8) Amazon's Astro Robot Is A 24-Hour Security Guard And Smart Assistant All Rolled Into One
Cute, evil, or a bit of both? Amazon has just unveiled Astro, a moving robot designed to wheel itself around your home, keep an eye on intruders, and even keep your kids occupied:https://www.techradar.com/news/amazons-astro-robot-is-a-24-hour-security-guard-and-smart-assistant-all-rolled-into-one
9) Recording: Tek Talk Welcomes Amanda Tolson, Director of Sales of En-Vision America, Discussing ScripTalk and Talking Prescription Labels | September 20th 2021
Amanda speaks about ScripTalk, a fully accessible prescription reader system to help you safely manage your prescriptions independently. Did you know your pharmacy can use the ScripTalk system to make reading your prescription labels fully accessible? Envision America offers a hardware device or smart phone app solution to scan your prescription labels. Both systems will speak all the information on your prescription label, including the name of your medication, the dosage, and perhaps most importantly, how many refills you have left for that prescription:https://accessibleworld.org/podcast/tek-talk-welcomes-amanda-tolson-director-of-sales-of-en-vision-america-discussing-scriptalk-and-talking-prescription-labels-09-20-2021/
10) A Quick Guide to Windows 11 Accessibility
Microsoft has been improving the accessibility features available on Windows progressively through the years. Accessible technology aims to unlock opportunities for people with disabilities across the world and help tackle the "disability divide." For Microsoft, Windows 11 is a significant step towards achieving seamless accessibility without costly plug-ins or time-consuming work by IT administrators. Here are some of the key features of Windows 11 to support users across the disability spectrum:https://www.onmsft.com/feature/windows-11-accessibility
11) Android Accessibility Update Lets You Control Your Phone, Communicate Using Facial Gestures
The new features, called Camera Switches and Project Activate, let users navigate their devices without their hands or voice:https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/android-accessibility-update-lets-you-control-your-phone-communicate-using-facial-gestures/
12) NVAccess In Process for September 29th 2021
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-29th-september-2021/13) Recently Added to BARD: Audio: NLS Braille eReader HumanWare User Guide
National Library Service. Reading time 1 hour, 27 minutes. Read by Deborah Sampson. A production of Minnesota State Services for the Blind, Communication Center. Subjects: General. Description: This is the User Guide version 1.1.1 for instructional guidance to the NLS Braille eReader manufactured by Humanware. Available from BARD courtesy of the Minnesota State Services for the Blind, Communication Center. Local book number: DB55397. Digital talking book. 12 levels and 94 navigation points. Digitally mastered. ISBN: NA, Washington DC, National Library Service, 2021., Recorded from: Full audio with structure. System requirements: Internet access and an NLS authorized digital talking book player. Contact your cooperating library for more information. Talking books; Downloadable books:https://nlsbard.loc.gov/nlsbardprod/login/download%252Fdetail%252Fsrch%252FDBC24650/NLS
14) Windows 11: Everything You Need To Know by Android Authority
https://www.androidauthority.com/windows-11-2738763/➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) LightHouse Launches New Family Program for Blind Infants and Toddlers
LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired of San Francisco has announced the launch of a new program crucial to serving families with young children who are blind or have low vision. The new LightHouse Little Learners (LLL) is a developmental and educational program for children ages birth to three, who are blind, deafblind, have low vision or neurological visual impairment, or whose developmental delays include blindness or low vision:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/lighthouse-launches-new-family-program-for-blind-infants-and-toddlers-301387198.html
2) Collision Warning Device Developed For Visually Impaired Patients
The real-world evaluation of a novel device designed to reduce collisions and thus improve daily walking showed that it decreased the rate of collisions by 37% when used by blind patients and those whose vision was severely impaired, according to lead author Shrinivas Pundlik, PhD, and senior author Gang Luo, PhD.:https://www.ophthalmologytimes.com/view/collision-warning-device-developed-for-visually-impaired-patients
3) Envision AI is Hiring
The developers of the Envision AI app and the Envision glasses have several employment opportunities available. Available positions include a social media specialist, marketing specialist, inbound sales executive, a UI/UX designer and more. Read an apply for any of these positions by visiting the following link:https://www.letsenvision.com/careers
4) Hadley Women's Board Presents 2021 Braille Holiday Cards From Hadley
In the Hadley tradition. The 2021 Braille Holiday Card carries the interior greeting "Wishing you peace, happiness and the spirit of the season" in both print and embossed braille. This year's artwork features a delightful winter village beneath a snowy sky. Colorful houses and evergreen trees surround a frozen pond, where children skate while a woman and her dog walk nearby. For tactile effect some of the village buildings and a tree have been embossed. About the artist: Artist Sarah Sheridan grew up in Winnetka, IL, where Hadley is headquartered. Sarah's large family inspired her creation, "Some of my favorite times are spent with my family. We all live close to each other, and this snowy town reminds me of the joy I get from being so close to them." Free Ground Shipping to all U.S. States. Call for international shipping rates. Sale ends December 10th 2021. Order cards here:https://brailleholidaycard.hadley.edu/?utm_source=Learners&utm_campaign=7b16543e8f-holiday-card-2021-learners-1&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_d1babd3418-7b16543e8f-52499638&mc_cid=7b16543e8f&mc_eid=8997daa19d
5) The People Behind Windows 11: Working With Communities To Improve Input And Accessibility
John Porter is an input and accessibility designer who is unable to use what so many take for granted: a keyboard and mouse. Porter relies almost entirely on his voice and speech recognition technology, in addition to switches (a series of buttons with pre-defined actions to cover a small range of motion) to interact with his PC. Working on Windows 11 as part of the Modern Input & Accessibility Team, he's been creating solutions to help others who use their PCs in different ways:http://www.publicnow.com/view/1FD0F1712370570CC74A60DDB447796F446C7C7B
6) The Science Fiction Future Of Contact Lenses Is Arriving Now
We are all familiar with contact lenses that help people see better. But imagine contact lenses that darken automatically when you step into bright sunlight, or detect diseases and slow down their progression. What about contact lenses that deliver augmented reality? Well, it's time to stop imagining because things are about to get better as modern times are yielding a significant jump in contact lens technology:https://myeyebb.com/blogs/news/the-science-fiction-future-of-contact-lenses-is-arriving-now
7) Jim Barnett Park's Long-Awaited Sensory Trail Opens
Construction of the Sensory Trail started in September 2017 but progressed slowly due to COVID-19, weather conditions, donation and material delays and so on. Winchester Host Lions Club member Celia "Caz" Zuckerman said the idea was to do something locally to celebrate that year's 100th anniversary of Lions ClubInternational:https://www.winchesterstar.com/winchester_star/jim-barnett-parks-long-awaited-sensory-trail-opens-on-sunday/article_53ec465b-1c30-533b-8b1d-9da082ee8709.html
8) How Can Packaging Become More Accessible For People Who Are Blind Or Partially Sighted?
Marc Powell is the strategic accessibility lead at the Royal Institute of Blind People (RNIB), and he is also registered blind himself. "I guess," he said, "lots of blind people guess what something is, and you get it home and you're like 'Oh, no, it's not the right thing!'". This can be even more of a problem when someone has diabetes or allergies, and having an accurate picture of the nutritional information on packaging is a matter of safety:https://packagingeurope.com/how-can-packaging-become-more-accessible-for-people-who-are-blind-or-partially-sighted/
9) Women Who Travel: What I Learned While Traveling With A Visual Disability
I have low vision and I'm partially sighted. I have a constant fear of crossing streets, falling down staircases, being hit by a speeding car, or bumping into strangers when the lights are dim. Much of India, and the northeast where I live in particular, has hilly terrain and is challenging to navigate. Uneven roads, potholes in the pavements, and puddles and muddy streets during the rainy season can be restrictive for visually impaired travelers like myself. As a woman, setting off on my own can also feel risky for its own set of reasons:https://www.cntraveler.com/story/what-i-learned-while-traveling-with-a-visual-disability
10) 'All the Light We Cannot See' Series Based on Best-Seller a Go at Netflix
Shawn Levy will direct the adaptation of Anthony Doerr's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, which is seeking a blind or low-vision actress for its lead role:https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/netflix-all-light-we-cannot-see-series-1235018796/
11) New Research Explores How Visually Impaired Babies Perceive The World
Visually impaired babies rely more on touch than hearing to respond to the world around them, but both senses will be important in designing tools to help them develop, according to new research:https://medicalxpress.com/news/2021-09-explores-visually-impaired-babies-world.html
12) How a Smartphone Can Help You Cope With Epilepsy
Epilepsy looks different depending on the person, but here are some strategies for managing symptoms and staying safe:https://www.wired.com/story/how-smartphone-can-help-cope-epilepsy/
13) UC Irvine Asst. Professor One Of Popular Science's 'Brilliant 10'
Stacy Branham, a UC Irvine assistant professor of informatics, was named this week as one of the "Brilliant 10" by Popular Science magazine. The list highlights "the most innovative up-and-coming minds in science," and features scientists, engineers, academic researchers and inventors. Branham, who works in the Donald Bren School of Information and Computer Science, was recognized for her work in adapting commonly-used technologies for people with disabilities:https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/technology/uc-irvine-asst-professor-one-of-popular-sciences-brilliant-10/ar-AAOKEdL
14) The Regs: Get a Feel for Designing for the Visually Impaired
Geoff Wilkinson reviews the official guidance on designing with consideration for blind and poorly sighted people:https://www.architectsjournal.co.uk/news/opinion/the-regs-get-a-feel-for-designing-for-the-visually-impaired?tkn=1
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Blind Android Users 42 | Play That Funky Tune!
September 25th 2021 | To listen to this and all previous episodes go to BlindAndroidUsers.com. You can also take part in our forums and download episodes for offline listening. We demo omnia music player and poweramp music player. We have another commentary screen reader episode. In the app of the week segment, we demo speech central. We have highlights from Talkback Episode 8, and for demos on shuttle and GoneMAD music players check out our Youtube playlist at:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqpouZSepovoKmo__dHzd3Gc
2) Mosen At Large 150
September 25th 2021 iOS 15 reaction, Ed Green from the Blind Android Users Podcast, and listener feedback on Android:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/9ee5c3f6/ios-15-new-apple-hardware-and-adventures-in-android
3) DM79 — The Click
September 28th 2021 In the latest episode of the DM Series, "DM79 - The Click", we start this episode out talking some troubleshooting steps out for Michael having strange Audio with his internet with a discussion of his reaper setup. Damashe shares a little about how he's getting better video into his video calls. Michael asks an important question about what does hardwired really mean? While we discuss how nice it is to have the ability to call someone for support. We take some time to share information about the Apple event and what was announced. This then transitions us into a conversation about IOS15 changes. We chat briefly about our thoughts on using Android with the Pixel and this episode is closed out by each of us sharing our favorite app/book for this week:https://yourownpay.com/dm79
4) Eyes on Success 2140 Encore of 1916 The Voice Behind Siri
September 29th 2021Meet Susan Bennett whose voice was used to create the original female English language Siri voice. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Susan about her experiences as a voice artist, actress, and musician, what it was like to create the voice for Siri, how she found out that she was the voice behind Siri, and how it changed her career:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202140.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Native Mobile Application Testing
September 30th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | The number of apps for mobile devices is ever-growing. It's important that mobile apps be accessible and inclusive, but it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the thought of incorporating them into your accessibility-evaluation strategy. Join TPGi Accessibility Engineer Laurie Pagano for an introduction to some of the mobile-device settings, assistive technologies, and other tools that you can add to your accessibility-testing toolbox. Set yourself up for success so you can start testing native mobile apps for accessibility conformance today. Register today!https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-september-30-native-mobile-app-testing/
2) Ask the Experts: Document Accessibility Part 2
September 30th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | If you register, you have access to the recording of the webinar:https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJ0tc-Chqj0oGNAHnASOmU8cTT-DlMT0hIZf
3) Gadgets, Apps & Resources for Your Health by The Technology User Group
October 2nd 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | On Saturday, October 2nd 2021, the Technology User Group will take a close look at health resources, apps and gadgets. There are thousands of health resources available, but if they lack accessibility, they will be of little use to you. We will be looking at many aspects of health and showcasing some of the best resources. Please note that for this event and the event in November, we are meeting on the first Saturday of the month. You do not need to RSVP for this event. The presentation will begin at 10 AM and last about an hour. All Technology User Group meetings are virtual and may be joined by calling:(319) 527-4994 📱️
4) 2021 M-Enabling Summit - Promoting Accessible Technologies and Environments
October 4th - 6th 2021 | The M-Enabling Summit Conference and Showcase is dedicated to promoting digital environments and assistive technologies for senior citizens and users of all abilities. It is an annual meeting place for all who implement digital inclusion strategies or develop assistive solutions and accessible digital contents and services for workplaces, learning environments or consumer markets:https://m-enabling.com/
5) Building A Professional Website Using WordPress Course
October 5th 2021 | 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 11PM GMT | My name is Taylor Arndt and I am the owner of Taylor's Accessible Branding Solutions, LLC. Having an online presence is essential for success today, which is why my company offers products like Wordpress website development, training solutions, copywriting and more. We will be hosting a WordPress professional web development course starting on October 5th 2021 at 7:00 PM ET. The course will last for 10 weeks, and will guide you through the basics of hosting your own website and give you detailed information on accessible WordPress themes and plugins such as GeneratePress, Gravity Forms, UpdraftPlus, Rank Math SEO, and Jetpack. When you complete our 10-week course you will be able to install the WordPress content management system, set up your website, understand how to maintain and secure your site, and use SiteKit to view analytics. The course this fall has a limited number of seats, and seats are filling up fast! The registration fee will be $300 USD and you can register at:https://courses.tayloraccess.com/courses/
6) Browsing the Web With JAWS by Access Ingenuity
October 6th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Recently, we had 2 presentations explaining the differences among the 3 modern browsers, Chrome, Edge, and Firefox. This will explain and demonstrate JAWS tools and features that can be used with all 3 browsers. Join Zhi Huang, Mark Schafer, and Rachel Reeves from Access Ingenuity to explore the various methods to use JAWS to help increase your effectiveness when browsing the web. Learning Outcomes: Introduce the JAWS Screen sensitive help to find out about general webpage information, along with help with the element in focus. Use JAWS navigation quick keys and lists to navigate by forms, headings, links, regions, graphics, lists, list items, and tables. Work with the JAWS keyboard help to practice navigation quick keys. Discover how to use PlaceMarkers in conjunction with your bookmarks or favorites. | Meeting ID: 845 7479 0808 | Passcode: 291810 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,84574790808#,,,,*291810# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84574790808?pwd=WmtYQ1RJZkkxZkZkeUdhUWpsbW9OQT09
7) Sense-Ability. Using the BrailleSense 6! | Paid Course | Hartgen Consulting
October 6th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6 GMT | While the BrailleSense 6 is a relatively new product, largely due to previous devices offered by its manufacturers it has already established itself as a power house for work and entertainment. Find out how it works in a way which makes Braille Sense!http://hartgen.org/braillesense
8) The 3rd Annual Digital Accessibility Legal Summit
October 7th 2021 through October 8th 2021 | American University Washington College of Law, Washington, D.C. This event is primarily Online, with in-person participation options still to be determined. Please note that this Summit is in the same week and in the same vicinity as the M-Enabling Summit. The premier annual event for digital accessibility legal practioners. In-depth talks and panels. Featuring leaders from the digital accessibility and legal fields. Tackling big practice issues:https://accessibility.legal/
9) GAconf | A Game Development Conference Dedicated to Making Games More Accessible to Gamers with Disabilities, Hosted by the IGDA's Accessibility SIG
October 11th 2021 through October 12th 2021 | The full line-up has been announced for the free-to-attend online edition of accessibility conference GAconf, taking place on October 11th-12th 2021. GAconf is a game development conference dedicated to making games more accessible to gamers with disabilities, hosted by the IGDA's accessibility SIG. The event features talks and networking for all disciplines of the games industry, exploring recent and future advances in game accessibility. The 2021 event will be free to attend and held through video conferencing and Discord. Topics include Far Cry 6's methodology for accessibility user research, how the Diablo 2 team tackled accessibility of remasters, audio description for blind gamers, Insomniac's journey through Spider-Man, Miles Morales and Ratchet & Clank: A Rift Apart; case studies on indie accessibility gems The Vale and The Big Con, how to communicate complex information through sound for blind gamers, panel discussion on representation of disabled characters, lived experiences of gaming with motor impairments, what legally blind gamers see, how to make horror games scary for all? players, how Roblox enables and supports accessibility of user generated content, and more! Speakers include indie accessibility superstars Falling Squirrel and Mighty Yell through to AAAs and publishers like EA, Insomniac, Blizzard and Ubisoft, and disabled gamers advocates and specialists such as Paul Amadeus Lane, James Rath, and Courtney Craven:https://www.gaconf.com/
10) Undertaking JAWS Screen Reader Compatibility Testing in Real Life by TPGi
October 13th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Experience a real-world scenario exhibiting the synergy between the JAWS screen reader and TPGi's JAWS compatibility testing tool, JAWS Inspect, as part of the accessibility QA process. Webinar attendees will observe the interaction between a real JAWS user struggling with a poorly designed web page and a TPGi accessibility tester making sense of the JAWS user's accessibility challenges via the power of JAWS Inspect. JAWS Inspect provides text output of the JAWS audio speech to enable non-JAWS users to efficiently test for screen reader compatibility. Attendees will get a first-hand look at how to use this tool alongside JAWS (or by itself) for quick and easy testing. Register at:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-october-13-at-12pm-et-undertaking-jaws-screen-reader-compatibility-testing-in-real-life/
11) Using Zoom Meeting on a PC With a Screen Reader by Access Ingenuity
October 13th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Recently, we learned that while many attend our weekly Zoom Presentations, a lot of people are doing this by calling or using the mobile app. This resulted in several requests for tips on attending Zoom presentations on a PC using a Screen Reader. Join Ian Ramos, Mark Schafer, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity as they share tips and different methods on using a keyboard to quickly access popular features on the zoom desktop app. Learning Outcomes: Explain the differences between the desktop app and web interface and the benefits of the desktop app while using screen readers. Discuss first time set up including downloading and installing app, first time prompts, and whether or not you need to sign in for different presentations. Explore different ways to navigate the interface with a keyboard including various hot keys to mute and unmute audio, mute and unmute video, raise and lower hand, work with chat, view users, start and stop recording, share screen, etc. | Meeting ID: 899 0594 3325 | Passcode: 246915 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,89905943325#,,,,*246915# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89905943325?pwd=WFE4cUVtN0xIbGpvVGJ4amw0UUhKdz09
12) How to Make an Accessible Excel Workbook by TPGi
October 19th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | This webinar provides best practices for making Excel spreadsheets accessible to disabled people. TPGi Accessibility Engineer, Aaron Farber, will review common accessibility issues within Excel spreadsheets and look at each accessibility issue first from the users' perspective, in how that issue affects them. The webinar then takes participants through the author's perspective and provides step-by-step instructions on how to fix that issue in their spreadsheet. Additionally, Aaron will answer the nuts-and-bolts questions such as compatibility between Excel and other operating systems like MacOS and the accessibility of other spreadsheet programs. Excel has released many new features such as Data from Picture; this webinar evaluates them through the lens of accessibility. Beyond building technical skills in Excel, participants will also learn whether WCAG applies to Excel spreadsheets. Register today:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-october-19-how-to-make-an-accessible-excel-workbook/
13) TypeAbility Typing Program With JAWS and Fusion by Access Ingenuity
October 20th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity, and the developer of TypeAbility, David Pinto from Yes Accessible to explore this program that works with JAWS and Fusion! Learning Outcomes: Explore the different options to customize TypeAbility. Discover the different features including typing lessons, typing race, academic tests, create your own lessons, etc. Preview the upcoming TypeAbility5 along with new features. | Meeting ID: 837 7304 4871 | Passcode: 593759 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83773044871#,,,,*593759# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83773044871?pwd=L2NMckhSamxmbFVaYUhTN1BSR0M1QT09
14) Managing Folders, Files, and Drives With a Screen Reader Part 3 by Access Ingenuity
October 27th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity as they explain the File Explorer interface of Windows 10 and provide many examples and tips to manage your folders, files, and drives. Although this is a Part 3, attendees would still benefit from this even if they didn't attend Parts 1 and 2. In addition, please feel free to contact us if there's an interest in the Parts 1 and 2 recordings. Learning Outcomes: Provide more explanations and examples on how to work with the Tree View and List View and how they affect each other. Show practical examples for previously introduced methods to rename, select, cut, copy, paste, and delete files and folders. Demonstrate how to manage drives such as an SD Card for the Victor Reader, and how to work with syncing folders like OneDrive and Google Drive. | Meeting ID: 896 8577 0228 | Passcode: 483670 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,89685770228#,,,,*483670# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89685770228?pwd=QWtFcUpTTDZnWlBKMDhFZ2Y1VGNVQT09
15) ATHEN (Access Technology Higher Education Network) 2021 Annual Meeting
November 9th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | All are welcome to attend the ATHEN Annual Meeting. Real-Time Captioning will be provided. If you would like to request any additional disability-related accommodations, please contact me at athenpresident@gmail.com 📧️ | Zoom meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87384816423
16) Accessing Higher Ground Accessible Media, Web and Technology Conference by Association on Higher Education And Disability (AHEAD)
November 15th 2021 Through November 19th 2021 | Presented and hosted by AHEAD, Accessing Higher Ground is conducted in collaboration with ATHEN:https://accessinghigherground.org/
17) 2nd Annual Sight Tech Global 2021
December 1st & 2nd 2021 | 100% free. 100% virtual. Sight Tech Global is the first global, virtual conference dedicated to fostering discussion among technology pioneers on how rapid advances in AI and related technologies will fundamentally alter the landscape of assistive technology and accessibility. Registration is now open:https://sighttechglobal.com/
18) Axe-Con 2022
March 15th 2022 through March 17th 2022 | Axe-con is an open and inclusive digital accessibility conference that welcomes developers, designers, business users, and accessibility professionals of all experience levels to a new kind of accessibility conference focused on building, testing, and maintaining accessible digital experiences. Register for axe-con 2022, it's free! Join us for this three-day, multi-track conference to help further your digital accessibility efforts. Hear from the top experts in the field, for your area of interest with none of the noise. Learn more about why you should attend or get started by saving your seat by registering now:https://www.deque.com/axe-con/
➜ Surveys
1) Availability Of Healthcare Information To Blind And Visually Impaired Healthcare Users During The COVID Pandemic
Clsoe Date: September 30th 2021 Dear Listers, this is Sushil Oswal from the University of Washington. I am the principal investigator on a survey about the availability of healthcare information to blind and low-vision consumers during the past 18 months. This is an important survey for our blindness community because it will give us an opportunity to express our experiences of finding healthcare information during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please give us as much of your personal experiences as you can so that our study could create a comprehensive picture of the healthcare information barriers blind people face particularly under pandemic conditions. We will do a small draw of ten $25 gift cards for this survey. Besides publishing in academic journals, we will be producing a report on the basis of this healthcare information survey which will be shared with as many local and state-level health departments as possible. This report will also be available to blindness community at large. To complete the survey, please click the link below. If you have any questions about the survey, or you have difficulty completing the survey, please email me at oswal@u.washington.edu 📧️. Our human subjects approval includes a permission to conduct this survey over the phone if necessary. So, do not hesitate to email me privately if you face computer issues while completing this survey. My co-investigator and I will maintain your privacy in all possible circumstances:https://uwt.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_d4FBAWsGQwBwtOC
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Perfect BrailleSense Polaris 32
Listing Date: 9/16/2021 | Price: $1,450.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: We have one unused Hims Braille Sense Polaris 32. This notetaker has powerful built-in capabilities and can also be used as a 32 cell Braille display and Braille keyboard for your computer and/or phone. | Contact: Email cs567eml@gmail.com 📧️ or (408) 659-1374 📱️. |2) FOR SALE: One Victor Reader Stream TREK
Listing Date: 9/16/2021 | Price: $60.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: This VR TREK will need a new battery, and the small clip that holds the battery in is broken, you may be able to have this fixed, or you could just use tape to hold the battery in. Other than that it works just fine. Comes with its originall carrying case. | Contact: Email jflower418@gmail.com 📧️. |3) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Build A Foundational Understanding Of Construction And Electronics With BRIC: Structures® Access Kit From APH - An Adapted Version Of An Educational Elenco® Product For Students Who Are Blind And Visually Impaired!
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ GuideLights And Gadgets: New For Fall
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: HIMS, Inc.
Sponsor Since: September 30th 2021
Website: https://hims-inc.com/ 🌐
Shop All Products: https://hims-inc.com/shop-all-products/ 🛒
Phone: (512) 837-2000 📱️
Sales Email: sales@hims-inc.com 📧️
Support Email: support@hims-inc.com 📧️
About: HIMS, Inc. is a global manufacturer and distributor that has provided braille, magnification and accessible healthcare devices since 1999.
Sponsor: Blind Mice Mega Mall
➜ Modified Talking Black & Decker Toaster Oven Factory Direct from E T S! Save $50 & Free U.S. Shipping
https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/bmm/shop/Item_Detail?itemid=5447225
Sponsor Since: September 23rd 2021
Website: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/ 🌐
Blind Mice Order Center Phone: (866) 922-8877 📱️
Blind Mice Order Center Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM CST/CDT (GMT-5) Monday through Friday
Mall Directory of Stores: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/bmm/shop/Directory 🛒
Join The Today's Cheese Newsletter: Join the Today's Cheese newsletter to get Members' Only sales & Unadvertised Specials from the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You can save money with these unadvertised specials! Send an email to: TodaysCheese+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
Blind Mice Swap Shop: Sell, Swap, and Buy. The Mice receive calls everyday asking if we buy or sell used or unwanted items. The Mice don't sell used products but to help our members, we created the Blind Mice Swap Shop! The Blind Mice Swap Shop is the place for Sellers, Traders, & Buyers to find each other! Do you ... have something you don't want anymore... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something you just don't use... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something new to sell... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Provide a service that might be helpful to other Blind and Visually Impaired folks... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Have an announcement about an upcoming event beneficial to the Blind & Visually Impaired Community... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Joining the Blind Mice Swap Shop is free and as easy as sending an email to: BlindMiceSwapShop+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
About: Welcome to Blind Mice Mega Mall! The Mall with the Blind In Mind! Blind Mice Mega Mall is designed for use with a screen reader and low vision software for visually impaired shoppers. Each store is an independent business owned / managed by a member of the Blind / Low Vision Community. Please browse & shop the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You will find great items and unique offerings from our merchants. You help the Blind Community every time you make a purchase from any of the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. Every purchase made at Blind Mice Mega Mall gives back to the Blind and Visually Impaired Community. Proceeds from sales fund the MouseHole Scholarship Program, the Cooking In The Dark Show and The Movie Vault. Blind Mice Mega Mall accepts American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, Checks, and Money Orders. Purchase Orders From State Agencies are also welcome.
Sponsor: Carroll Center for the Blind
➜ Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
https://carroll.org/screen-reader-user-tester-training-program/
Sponsor Since: August 5th 2021
Website: https://carroll.org/ 🌐
Phone: (617) 969-6200 📱️
Fax: (617) 969-6204 ░Shop: https://carroll.org/store/ 🛒
Donate: https://carroll.org/donate ❤
Social: Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | LinkedIn | Instagram
About: The Carroll Center for the Blind is the foremost leader in vision rehabilitation services for individuals confronted by the challenges of vision loss. Our mission is to empower those who are blind or visually impaired to achieve independence and to lead a fulfilling life. Established in 1936, the renowned Carroll Center for the Blind has been serving those with vision impairment for over eight decades; we are known nationally as a premier Vision Rehabilitation Center. Located just outside of Boston on a sprawling campus in Newton, Massachusetts, we proudly serve ALL ages and ALL stages of vision loss. With the ongoing promise of improving the lives of people with vision-related problems, The Carroll Center for the Blind has pioneered many innovative services allowing people who are blind or have low vision to learn the skills to be independent in their homes, in class settings, and in their work places. Our services include vision rehabilitation, vocational and transition programs, assistive technology training, educational support, and recreation opportunities for individuals who are visually impaired of all ages. For over 80 years, the expertise of Carroll Center staff has provided help for thousands of blind and visually impaired persons with diverse opportunities for success and independent living.
Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions
➜ The 50% Introductory Rate for Scribe for Meetings is Coming to a Close!
https://pneumasolutions.com/scribe-for-meetings-promotion-expiring-soon/
Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ VisionAware Resources Including the Directory of Services
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/093020211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ Accessible Pharmacy Joins Be My Eyes
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, September 23, 2021 - Volume 825 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, September 23, 2021 - Volume 825
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
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Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: One Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Package Available! Join 11 Other AT Industry Leaders in Giving Tidbits Readers The Gift of Free Weekly Technology Information While Reaching Over 6,700 Assistive Technology Professionals, Educators and Enthusiasts Each Week! All For Just $25 A Week!
Secure an available package today for just $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. Join 11 other AT industry leaders in supporting Tidbits and begin reaching over 6,700 assistive technology professionals, educators and enthusiasts each week for just $25 a week. There's nothing else quite like it. And that's just the exposure that you'll receive. The additional marketing benefits are pretty amazing too. If this sounds intriguing to you, please reach out to our publisher today at: publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️. Or learn more at:
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Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) How to Dial An Extension on an iPhone & Save Extensions to Contacts (iOS 15 Update): (6.9% of all clicks.)https://www.iphonelife.com/content/how-to-dial-extension-your-iphone
B.) My Thoughts on The Victor Reader Trek From Humanware by David Goldfield: (6.5% of all clicks.)
https://davidgoldfield.wordpress.com/2021/09/12/my-thoughts-on-the-victor-reader-trek-from-humanware/
C.) Windows 10 Keeps Freezing Up? 9 Ways to Fix It: (5.4% of all clicks.)
https://helpdeskgeek.com/help-desk/windows-10-keeps-freezing-up-9-ways-to-fix/
D.) Smart Homes Made Simple: Your Guide to Smart Home Technology. A Downloadable Guide Written By The Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation (PATF): (4.8% of all clicks.)
https://smarthomesmadesimple.org/guide/
E.) Here's Everything Apple Announced at Its September 14th Event: (4.4% of all clicks.)
https://www.reviewgeek.com/97685/heres-everything-apple-just-announced-at-its-september-14th-event/
2) One Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Package Currently Available
Please consider giving Tidbits readers the gift of free weekly technology information. Join 11 other AT industry leaders in supporting Tidbits and begin reaching over 6,700 assistive technology professionals, educators and enthusiasts each week, for just $25 a week. There's nothing else quite like it. And that's just the exposure that you'll receive. The additional marketing benefits are pretty amazing too. If this sounds intriguing to you, please reach out to our publisher today at: publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️. Or learn more at:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
3) Top Tech Tidbits Welcomes Stephen (Alex) Marositz As Paid Editorial Contributor To Top Tech Tidbits
Please join all of us here at Top Tech Tidbits in welcoming aboard Alex Marositz. In addition to being an Editorial Contributor to Top Tech Tidbits Alex is also an Accessible Technology Coordinator for California State University, Dominguez Hills, USA. He first begain using assistive technology in March of 1986 and has been reading Tidbits since November of 2009. Alex will start contributing to Top Tech Tidbits as an Editor each week beginning October 7th 2021. Please join all of us in welcoming Alex aboard and be sure to check out what he has to say in his profile on the Top Tech Tidbits website at:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/about.html#stephen-alex-marositz
4) Top Tech Tidbits Welcomes Ben Moxey As Paid Editorial Contributor To Top Tech Tidbits
Please join all of us here at Top Tech Tidbits in welcoming aboard Ben Moxey. In addition to being an Editorial Contributor to Top Tech Tidbits Ben is also an Access and Technology Advisor for Guide Dogs, New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory (NSW/ACT). He first begain using assistive technology in September of 1999 and has been reading Tidbits since September of 2015. Ben will start contributing to Top Tech Tidbits as an Editor each week beginning October 7th 2021. Please join all of us in welcoming Ben aboard and be sure to check out what he has to say in his profile on the Top Tech Tidbits website at:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/about.html#ben-moxey
5) What's New in iOS 15 Accessibility for Blind and DeafBlind Users
Applevis notes that another Autumn means another release of iOS. Just like releases of iOS dating back to 2009, this release brings a lot of new features and functions for blind and DeafBlind users. Major changes in iOS 15 include a new Focus Mode, several enhancements with FaceTime, the ability to use Siri for certain tasks while offline, and more. Many blogs will be highlighting these enhancements to iOS, so I will not discuss them in great detail here. This article covers accessibility features impacting individuals who are blind or DeafBlind:https://www.applevis.com/blog/whats-new-ios-15-accessibility-blind-and-deafblind-users?fbclid=IwAR2_RCJWhDDYRYdYaAiDlM5oRv91GQDAjKPB6XJ_4J8PvZpGnLGZ7PGksbc
6) How To Install or Update New Maps and Navigate Virtually on the VR Trek | By HumanWare | YouTube Video Posted September 8th 2021
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NipahJkP-o07) How to Code Accessible Emails with Semantic HTML and ARIA
For those of you that ask how we code Top Tech Tidbits to reach the most alternatively abled people possible, this article from Email on Acid is a really great start:https://www.emailonacid.com/blog/article/email-development/how-to-code-accessible-emails/
8) The Accessibility Bugs Introduced and Resolved in iOS 15 and iPadOS 15 for Blind and Low Vision Users
iOS 15 and iPadOS 15 were released to the public on Monday, September 20th 2021. This post contains details of the VoiceOver, low vision, and braille bugs which Applevis believes will be introduced in these releases; as well as details of the pre-existing bugs which they believe to be resolved:https://www.applevis.com/blog/accessibility-bugs-introduced-and-resolved-ios-15-and-ipados-15-blind-and-low-vision-users
9) Microsoft Office 2021 Joins Windows 11 for October 5 Launch
For those of us married to the intricate network of systems established by Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more: Good news. Microsoft Office 2021, the latest iteration of the long-running program suite, is headed to a PC near you on October 5, 2021. It will be icing on the proverbial cake that is Windows 11, which also launches on October 5th 2021:https://www.windowscentral.com/microsoft-office-2021-joins-windows-11-october-5-launch
10) 4,881 Free Online Courses from Top Universities (Updated Weekly)
While this list is not AT-specific, the CourseMarks Directory allows you to take free online courses from some of the best universities in the world. Below you will find a ranked list of 4,881 free online courses from universities such as Stanford, Harvard, MIT, Columbia and other top schools. If you would like to sign up for a free version of a MOOC, please select the "Full Course, No Certificate" (edX) or "Audit" (Coursera) option. If you take the course to earn a certificate, you will be charged a fee:https://coursemarks.com/trending/free-online-courses-by-top-universities/
11) Accessibility Errors with PDF Maker Update Sept 2021
Several major bugs have been documented by users in the Adobe Community Forums since Acrobat and PDF Maker were updated on September 14, 2021. They are:https://acrobat.uservoice.com/forums/590923-acrobat-for-windows-and-mac/suggestions/44183082-accessibility-errors-with-pdf-maker-update-sept-20
12) Cash Reader: The Best Money Reader For The Blind
Cash Reader is a smartphone application that enables visually impaired people to identify currency independently. It detects the value of a banknote and reads it out to the person or vibrates the value if the phone is in silent mode:https://iphonearena.com/cash-reader-review-money-identifier-app-for-blind/
13) 5 Reasons to Choose a Mac as a Blind Student
If you live with sight loss, going to a new college or university can bring a host of new experiences and challenges. Stressing over your assistive technology should not be one of them. The inevitable question will arise: What computing platform should you choose for your academics? Mac or Windows?https://iphonearena.com/reasons-to-choose-a-mac-as-a-blind-student/
14) NVDA Beats VoiceOver In These 7 Important Ways. Every. Single. Time.
The folks over at iPhoneArena.com believe that NVDA is better than VoiceOver at some things. And they want to talk about them. Here are seven reasons why NVDA beats VoiceOver. Every. Single. Time:https://iphonearena.com/nvda-vs-voiceover/
15) How to Add Closed Captions to Videos if You are Blind
As a content creator, it is no secret one of your biggest goals is to reach as wide of an audience as possible. As such, you should want to insure your content is as accessible as possible and one way to do this is through the use of closed captions for people who are hard of hearing. Closed captions are a textual representation of what is being said in a video, as well as other critical sounds important to understanding the plot. However, there's a bit of a paradox for blind advocates and content creators, and that is the ability to caption their content independently:https://rossminor.com/2021/09/14/331/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Apple Refutes Flicktype Developer's Account Of App Store Issues
Apple has told AppleInsider how it denies FlickType developer Kosta Eleftheriou's claims in a lawsuit, over the App Store handling of his accessibility keyboard app for Apple Watch:https://appleinsider.com/articles/21/09/15/apple-refutes-flicktype-developers-account-of-app-store-issues?utm_medium=rss
2) Developer Disputes Apple's Take on 'FlickType' Removal
Kosta Eleftheriou, developer and vocal App Store critic, says it took a year of appeals to get his "FlickType" Apple Watch keyboard approved, with those hard-fought gains potentially wiped clean now that Apple "Sherlocked" the app:https://appleinsider.com/articles/21/09/17/developer-disputes-apples-take-on-flicktype-removal?utm_medium=rss
3) Three Ways AI Is Improving Assistive Technology
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are some of the buzziest terms in tech and for a good reason. These innovations have the potential to tackle some of humanity's biggest obstacles across industries, from medicine to education and sustainability. One sector, in particular, is set to see massive advancement through these new technologies: assistive technology:https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2021/09/21/three-ways-ai-is-improving-assistive-technology/?sh=4a77f0b5419d
4) Store for Visually Impaired Gives Customers Independence
There's a new store in St. Petersburg, Florida making it easier for the blind and visually impaired to get the tools they need to improve their quality of life. The Lantern is a low-vision store at the Lighthouse of Pinellas where shoppers can buy everything from magnifying glasses to blood pressure monitors to talking clocks:https://www.fox13news.com/news/store-for-visually-impaired-gives-customers-independence
5) How Companies Can Make Their Remote Working Inclusive For The Deaf And Blind
As remote working takes a greater hold amid the coronavirus pandemic, a wealth of opportunities can open up for people that may not have existed before. For example, less of a focus on the office can draw more people with disabilities into the workforce:https://www.cnbc.com/2021/09/20/how-to-make-remote-working-inclusive-for-the-deaf-and-blind.html
6) Mcdonald's To Add Assistive Technology For Blind Customers To All US Company-Owned Stores
McDonald's will add assistive technology for blind customers at all company-owned restaurants in the U.S. by the end of this year, according to a report in The Wall Street Journal:https://www.qsrweb.com/news/mcdonalds-to-add-assistive-technology-for-blind-customers-to-all-us-company-owned-stores/
7) Do We Need Louder EVs? Well, the Safety of the Visually Impaired Depends On It
Electric vehicles are quiet because they simply lack the noise-making traditional combustion engines as they are powered by batteries and electric motors. However, this silence is not considered good for traffic and road safety as it can lead to accidents:https://interestingengineering.com/safety-of-the-visually-impaired-depends-on-louder-evs
8) Why The Events Industry Must Prioritize Accessibility Post-Covid
The long-awaited return of live events is here, but does its arrival offer an opportunity to rebuild the industry for the better? As part of The Drum's Experiential Deep Dive, experts weigh in on how events can become more inclusive for people with disabilities — ending social isolation for everyone, once and for all:https://www.thedrum.com/news/2021/09/15/why-the-events-industry-must-prioritize-accessibility-post-covid
9) AbleGamers Just Got a Big Win for the Disabled Gaming Community
The nonprofit raised over $1 million. Donations came from big companies like Twitch, but many were smaller contributions from individual gamers:https://www.wired.com/story/ablegamers-million-dollar-birthday-fundraiser/
10) How Accessible Are Zelda, Pok�mon And Animal Crossing For Blind Gamers?
On June 19, 2020, the gaming industry saw the release of the first video game to be created for blind gamers from the ground-up. Naughty Dog's, The Last of Us Part II was a look into what the future of gaming can be. However, what does the current landscape look like for disabled gamers wanting to play games now?https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2021/09/feature_how_accessible_are_zelda_pokemon_and_animal_crossing_for_blind_gamers
11) How to Make Podcasts Better for People With Hearing Loss
This article from Wired Magazine outlines some easy ways to make audio more accessible for everyone:https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-make-podcasts-better-for-people-with-hearing-loss/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther Episode 34: Farming Blind and the Harvest Moon
September 17th 2021 On AMI Audio's podcast �Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther� we celebrate the harvest moon and get to meet Matthew Bulmer, a blind farmer, inventor and municipal counsellor. Find out what it takes to farm blind. Test your knowledge and guess eight sounds from the farm. Learn tips on how to stay safe in one of the world's most dangerous professions:https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/episode-34-farming-blind-and-the-harvest-moon/id1530444764?i=1000535819850
2) Blind Android Users 41 | Get that Human Assistant!
September 18th 2021 | This week, we first talk about the return of our trusted friend in Android 12 Beta 5, the 2 finger hold to start talkback. We then talk about human assistant apps, Ira and Be My Eyes. We show you the layout of Ira. We have an interview with Ryan and Irene from Ira. We then unbox and review the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4. Then in our talkback highlights we show how to use 4 finger gestures:https://blindandroidusers.com/category/bauposts/shownotes/
3) Mosen At Large 149
September 18th 2021 iOS 15, new Apple hardware, and adventures in Android:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/9ee5c3f6/ios-15-new-apple-hardware-and-adventures-in-android
4) Eyes on Success 2139 Using Reaper with OSARA
September 22nd 2021Reaper is a powerful multi-track audio production program used by many people with visual impairments. The program is made accessible using a screen reader on both PC's and Mac's by the open source OSARA extension for Reaper. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Scott Chesworth who manages the Reaper forums and Jamie Teh, the author of OSARA:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202139.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) American Printing House for the Blind Announces the Chameleon 20 Has A Voice
September 24th 2021 | The Chameleon 20 has a voice! Text to Speech is coming soon to this portable and powerful braille device. Join American Printing House for the Blind on September 24th 2021 to be the first to hear about this update plus Spanish language support and one-handed mode. #AccessAcademy. Register at:https://bit.ly/2I75VTA
2) Ask an AT Professional
September 25th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Need some help with your Assistive Technology? Wondering what's that JAWS or NVDA Command? Puzzling* about your braille display? Having trouble with your iPhone? Googled, Asked friends and still can't find the answer... Register and get the Zoom link to Ask the AT Professional. Ask the AT Professional is available every Wednesday and Saturday. Sponsored by: Our Space Our Place, Inc.:https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIvdu6vrDsqH9ROpLzHnt6zZtN_sIzjCa6N
3) How To Use The Victor Reader Trek To Become More Knowledgeable And Efficient When Traveling
September 29th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Don't' miss this Leader Dogs for the Blind and HumanWare collaboration event on where Peter Tucic will be discussing how one can best utilize electronic navigation aids such as the Victor Reader Trek to further increase awareness and efficiency when traveling. Peter will discuss both appropriate means of introducing GPS technology to someone who may be newer to vision loss, as well as how such devices can benefit those who are seasoned travelers who would like to further augment their traditional orientation and mobility skillset. To register to this upcoming collaboration event, please visit the zoom registration page:https://leaderdog-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJEucuioqzgpGd0iiUjtV6Td3V_cvm0FX032?fbclid=IwAR3xBM8hmNzUHh9_wrQNT6C5yCxsiEHej09HmlZbVakjYgeMIvnxkc5B-7g
4) A Closer Look at the New Envision Glasses - Access Ingenuity
September 29th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos, Mark Schafer, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity for a look at the exciting new Envision glasses. The Envision glasses use the cutting edge Google Glasses platform as a way for a visually impaired user to gain access to their environment. They give you the ability to scan text, be it handwritten notes, books or your favorite recipe. Using the built in camera, you can call someone and have them see from your point of view, to help you pick out the perfect outfit or help you navigate a challenging obstacle. Join us to learn more about the additional features these glasses offer and how they differ from other wearable technologies currently on the market. Attendees from previous presentations on the glasses can still benefit from this since new features will be introduced. In addition, there are plans to present some live examples of the call feature for a blind person to get help during this presentation! Learning Outcomes: Convenience of using the Scan Text and Instant Text features. How Scene Description can offer more independence. How the glasses use cutting edge technology to help you do more. Explore new features since our last glasses presentation. Benefits and uses of the Video Call feature. Meeting ID: 856 9427 2978 | Passcode: 248303 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,85694272978#,,,,*248303# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85694272978?pwd=dVFKb3ZYSndnUjBPekhsVm0rQXpQZz09
5) Native Mobile Application Testing
September 30th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | The number of apps for mobile devices is ever-growing. It's important that mobile apps be accessible and inclusive, but it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the thought of incorporating them into your accessibility-evaluation strategy. Join TPGi Accessibility Engineer Laurie Pagano for an introduction to some of the mobile-device settings, assistive technologies, and other tools that you can add to your accessibility-testing toolbox. Set yourself up for success so you can start testing native mobile apps for accessibility conformance today. Register today!https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-september-30-native-mobile-app-testing/
6) Gadgets, Apps & Resources for Your Health by The Technology User Group
October 2nd 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | On Saturday, October 2nd 2021, the Technology User Group will take a close look at health resources, apps and gadgets. There are thousands of health resources available, but if they lack accessibility, they will be of little use to you. We will be looking at many aspects of health and showcasing some of the best resources. Please note that for this event and the event in November, we are meeting on the first Saturday of the month. You do not need to RSVP for this event. The presentation will begin at 10 AM and last about an hour. All Technology User Group meetings are virtual and may be joined by calling:(319) 527-4994 📱️
7) 2021 M-Enabling Summit - Promoting Accessible Technologies and Environments
October 4th - 6th 2021 | The M-Enabling Summit Conference and Showcase is dedicated to promoting digital environments and assistive technologies for senior citizens and users of all abilities. It is an annual meeting place for all who implement digital inclusion strategies or develop assistive solutions and accessible digital contents and services for workplaces, learning environments or consumer markets:https://m-enabling.com/
8) Building A Professional Website Using WordPress Course
October 5th 2021 | 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 11PM GMT | My name is Taylor Arndt and I am the owner of Taylor's Accessible Branding Solutions, LLC. Having an online presence is essential for success today, which is why my company offers products like Wordpress website development, training solutions, copywriting and more. We will be hosting a WordPress professional web development course starting on October 5th 2021 at 7:00 PM ET. The course will last for 10 weeks, and will guide you through the basics of hosting your own website and give you detailed information on accessible WordPress themes and plugins such as GeneratePress, Gravity Forms, UpdraftPlus, Rank Math SEO, and Jetpack. When you complete our 10-week course you will be able to install the WordPress content management system, set up your website, understand how to maintain and secure your site, and use SiteKit to view analytics. The course this fall has a limited number of seats, and seats are filling up fast! The registration fee will be $300 USD and you can register at:https://courses.tayloraccess.com/courses/
9) Sense-Ability. Using the BrailleSense 6! | Paid Course | Hartgen Consulting
October 6th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6 GMT | While the BrailleSense 6 is a relatively new product, largely due to previous devices offered by its manufacturers it has already established itself as a power house for work and entertainment. Find out how it works in a way which makes Braille Sense!http://hartgen.org/braillesense
10) The 3rd Annual Digital Accessibility Legal Summit
October 7th 2021 through October 8th 2021 | American University Washington College of Law, Washington, D.C. This event is primarily Online, with in-person participation options still to be determined. Please note that this Summit is in the same week and in the same vicinity as the M-Enabling Summit. The premier annual event for digital accessibility legal practioners. In-depth talks and panels. Featuring leaders from the digital accessibility and legal fields. Tackling big practice issues:https://accessibility.legal/
11) GAconf | A Game Development Conference Dedicated to Making Games More Accessible to Gamers with Disabilities, Hosted by the IGDA's Accessibility SIG
October 11th 2021 through October 12th 2021 | The full line-up has been announced for the free-to-attend online edition of accessibility conference GAconf, taking place on October 11th-12th 2021. GAconf is a game development conference dedicated to making games more accessible to gamers with disabilities, hosted by the IGDA's accessibility SIG. The event features talks and networking for all disciplines of the games industry, exploring recent and future advances in game accessibility. The 2021 event will be free to attend and held through video conferencing and Discord. Topics include Far Cry 6's methodology for accessibility user research, how the Diablo 2 team tackled accessibility of remasters, audio description for blind gamers, Insomniac's journey through Spider-Man, Miles Morales and Ratchet & Clank: A Rift Apart; case studies on indie accessibility gems The Vale and The Big Con, how to communicate complex information through sound for blind gamers, panel discussion on representation of disabled characters, lived experiences of gaming with motor impairments, what legally blind gamers see, how to make horror games scary for all? players, how Roblox enables and supports accessibility of user generated content, and more! Speakers include indie accessibility superstars Falling Squirrel and Mighty Yell through to AAAs and publishers like EA, Insomniac, Blizzard and Ubisoft, and disabled gamers advocates and specialists such as Paul Amadeus Lane, James Rath, and Courtney Craven:https://www.gaconf.com/
12) Accessing Higher Ground Accessible Media, Web and Technology Conference by Association on Higher Education And Disability (AHEAD)
November 15th 2021 Through November 19th 2021 | Presented and hosted by AHEAD, Accessing Higher Ground is conducted in collaboration with ATHEN:https://accessinghigherground.org/
13) 2nd Annual Sight Tech Global 2021
December 1st & 2nd 2021 | 100% free. 100% virtual. Sight Tech Global is the first global, virtual conference dedicated to fostering discussion among technology pioneers on how rapid advances in AI and related technologies will fundamentally alter the landscape of assistive technology and accessibility. Registration is now open:https://sighttechglobal.com/
14) Axe-Con 2022
March 15th 2022 through March 17th 2022 | Axe-con is an open and inclusive digital accessibility conference that welcomes developers, designers, business users, and accessibility professionals of all experience levels to a new kind of accessibility conference focused on building, testing, and maintaining accessible digital experiences. Register for axe-con 2022, it's free! Join us for this three-day, multi-track conference to help further your digital accessibility efforts. Hear from the top experts in the field, for your area of interest with none of the noise. Learn more about why you should attend or get started by saving your seat by registering now:https://www.deque.com/axe-con/
➜ Surveys
1) Availability Of Healthcare Information To Blind And Visually Impaired Healthcare Users During The COVID Pandemic
Clsoe Date: September 30th 2021 Dear Listers, this is Sushil Oswal from the University of Washington. I am the principal investigator on a survey about the availability of healthcare information to blind and low-vision consumers during the past 18 months. This is an important survey for our blindness community because it will give us an opportunity to express our experiences of finding healthcare information during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please give us as much of your personal experiences as you can so that our study could create a comprehensive picture of the healthcare information barriers blind people face particularly under pandemic conditions. We will do a small draw of ten $25 gift cards for this survey. Besides publishing in academic journals, we will be producing a report on the basis of this healthcare information survey which will be shared with as many local and state-level health departments as possible. This report will also be available to blindness community at large. To complete the survey, please click the link below. If you have any questions about the survey, or you have difficulty completing the survey, please email me at oswal@u.washington.edu 📧️. Our human subjects approval includes a permission to conduct this survey over the phone if necessary. So, do not hesitate to email me privately if you face computer issues while completing this survey. My co-investigator and I will maintain your privacy in all possible circumstances:https://uwt.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_d4FBAWsGQwBwtOC
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Perfect BrailleSense Polaris 32
Listing Date: 9/16/2021 | Price: $1,450.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: We have one unused Hims Braille Sense Polaris 32. This notetaker has powerful built-in capabilities and can also be used as a 32 cell Braille display and Braille keyboard for your computer and/or phone. | Contact: Email cs567eml@gmail.com 📧️ or (408) 659-1374 📱️. |2) FOR SALE: One Victor Reader Stream TREK
Listing Date: 9/16/2021 | Price: $60.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: This VR TREK will need a new battery, and the small clip that holds the battery in is broken, you may be able to have this fixed, or you could just use tape to hold the battery in. Other than that it works just fine. Comes with its originall carrying case. | Contact: Email jflower418@gmail.com 📧️. |3) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ GuideLights And Gadgets: New For Fall
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: Blind Mice Mega Mall
Sponsor Since: September 23rd 2021
Website: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/ 🌐
Blind Mice Order Center Phone: (866) 922-8877 📱️
Blind Mice Order Center Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM CST/CDT (GMT-5) Monday through Friday
Mall Directory of Stores: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/bmm/shop/Directory 🛒
Join The Today's Cheese Newsletter: Join the Today's Cheese newsletter to get Members' Only sales & Unadvertised Specials from the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You can save money with these unadvertised specials! Send an email to: TodaysCheese+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
Blind Mice Swap Shop: Sell, Swap, and Buy. The Mice receive calls everyday asking if we buy or sell used or unwanted items. The Mice don't sell used products but to help our members, we created the Blind Mice Swap Shop! The Blind Mice Swap Shop is the place for Sellers, Traders, & Buyers to find each other! Do you ... have something you don't want anymore... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something you just don't use... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something new to sell... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Provide a service that might be helpful to other Blind and Visually Impaired folks... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Have an announcement about an upcoming event beneficial to the Blind & Visually Impaired Community... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Joining the Blind Mice Swap Shop is free and as easy as sending an email to: BlindMiceSwapShop+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
About: Welcome to Blind Mice Mega Mall! The Mall with the Blind In Mind! Blind Mice Mega Mall is designed for use with a screen reader and low vision software for visually impaired shoppers. Each store is an independent business owned / managed by a member of the Blind / Low Vision Community. Please browse & shop the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You will find great items and unique offerings from our merchants. You help the Blind Community every time you make a purchase from any of the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. Every purchase made at Blind Mice Mega Mall gives back to the Blind and Visually Impaired Community. Proceeds from sales fund the MouseHole Scholarship Program, the Cooking In The Dark Show and The Movie Vault. Blind Mice Mega Mall accepts American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, Checks, and Money Orders. Purchase Orders From State Agencies are also welcome.
Sponsor: Carroll Center for the Blind
➜ Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
https://carroll.org/screen-reader-user-tester-training-program/
Sponsor Since: August 5th 2021
Website: https://carroll.org/ 🌐
Phone: (617) 969-6200 📱️
Fax: (617) 969-6204 ░Shop: https://carroll.org/store/ 🛒
Donate: https://carroll.org/donate ❤
Social: Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | LinkedIn | Instagram
About: The Carroll Center for the Blind is the foremost leader in vision rehabilitation services for individuals confronted by the challenges of vision loss. Our mission is to empower those who are blind or visually impaired to achieve independence and to lead a fulfilling life. Established in 1936, the renowned Carroll Center for the Blind has been serving those with vision impairment for over eight decades; we are known nationally as a premier Vision Rehabilitation Center. Located just outside of Boston on a sprawling campus in Newton, Massachusetts, we proudly serve ALL ages and ALL stages of vision loss. With the ongoing promise of improving the lives of people with vision-related problems, The Carroll Center for the Blind has pioneered many innovative services allowing people who are blind or have low vision to learn the skills to be independent in their homes, in class settings, and in their work places. Our services include vision rehabilitation, vocational and transition programs, assistive technology training, educational support, and recreation opportunities for individuals who are visually impaired of all ages. For over 80 years, the expertise of Carroll Center staff has provided help for thousands of blind and visually impaired persons with diverse opportunities for success and independent living.
Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions
➜ The 50% Introductory Rate for Scribe for Meetings is Coming to a Close!
https://pneumasolutions.com/scribe-for-meetings-promotion-expiring-soon/
Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ VisionAware Resources Including the Directory of Services
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/092320211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ Accessible Pharmacy Joins Be My Eyes
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Build A Foundational Understanding Of Construction And Electronics With BRIC: Structures® Access Kit From APH - An Adapted Version Of An Educational Elenco® Product For Students Who Are Blind And Visually Impaired!
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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.
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, September 16, 2021 - Volume 824 |
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Blind Mice Mega Mall Sponsors Top Tech Tidbits! One Sponsorship Package Available! Join 11 Other AT Industry Leaders in Supporting Tidbits While Reaching Over 6,700 Assistive Technology Professionals, Educators and Enthusiasts Each Week! All For Just $25 A Week!
Secure an available package today for just $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 join us in supporting the ongoing distribution of this publication. Consider showing your support for the world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology while enjoying some really incredible marketing benefits:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Introduction to RoboBraille: (7.4% of all clicks.)https://www.robobraille.org/
B.) Notes on Synthetic Speech | September 3rd 2021: (5.4% of all clicks.)
https://tink.uk/notes-on-synthetic-speech/
C.) Technology Blog and Podcast By Shaun Everiss: (4.7% of all clicks.)
https://technology.jaredrimer.net/
D.) 10 Best eBook Reader Apps for Android You Need to Know: (4.6% of all clicks.)
https://www.lifehack.org/articles/technology/10-best-ebook-reader-apps-for-android-you-need-know.html
E.) In-Process for September 3rd 2021: (4.5% of all clicks.)
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-3rd-september-2021/
2) Now Sponsoring Top Tech Tidbits: Blind Mice Mega Mall | One Sponsorship Package Currently Available
Please join all of us here at Tidbits in welcoming aboard Blind Mice Mega Mall, who has so very graciously agreed to support the ongoing distribution of Top Tech Tidbits by becoming a sponsor. If you look forward to Tidbits every week, it is sponsors like Blind Mice Mega Mall that make it possible. Join 11 other AT industry leaders in supporting Tidbits and begin reaching over 6,700 assistive technology professionals, educators and enthusiasts each week for just $25 a week. There's nothing else quite like it. And that's just the exposure that you'll receive. The additional marketing benefits are pretty amazing too. If this sounds intriguing to you, please reach out to our publisher today at: publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️. Or learn more at:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
3) Top Tech Tidbits Paid Editorial Contributor Positions. Application Acceptance Now Closed. Two New Editors To Be Announced Next Week. New Editors To Begin Contributing To Top Tech Tidbits Beginning October 7th 2021
Application acceptance for both paid Editorial Contributor positions is now closed. Sincerest and most heartfelt thanks to everyone who applied. I truly wish that we could have selected each and every one of you. But in keeping Top Tech Tidbits a not-for-profit publication we are only able to sustain two paid editors at any one time. So needless to say we were forced to make some really tough decisions. If you applied, but we weren't able to offer you a position, we encourage you to become a Guest Contributor by sending in Tidbits when you come across them using the Tidbit Submission Form below or on the Top Tech Tidbits website. If your Tidbits are approved often enough we will offer you a profile on our Partners Page which can help to increase your exposure to Tidbits readers as an authority in Assistive Technology:Partners Page: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/partners.html
Submit A Tidbit: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news
4) Powerpoint Tips for JAWS: Inserting Videos and Managing Hyperlinks (YouTube)
Courtesy of the Freedom Scientific Training YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lDRffaJGk9w
5) Accessible-Coconut: The Ideal Linux Distro for the Visually Impaired
Accessible-Coconut is a community-driven Linux distro aimed at providing a great Linux experience to blind and low-vision people:https://www.makeuseof.com/accessible-coconut-linux-distro-for-visually-impaired/
6) HaptiBraille Communicator | A New And Innovative Device That Allows Deafblind Persons To Speak in a Synthesized Voice and Hear the Speech of the Interlocutor | YouTube Video
This information comes to us from 4Blind at https://4blind.com/en. 4Blind undertakes research to develop, create and produce innovative engineering solutions for both blind and deafblind people. 4Blind assists in meeting the needs of the blind and deaf-blind communities by expanding their opportunities and eliminating the barriers that people with disabilities face in communication, education, employment, transportation and independent living. The HaptiBraille device protects the interests and rights of deafblind people in personal and confidential matters. For example, when communicating with a doctor (confidentiality of certain medical records), in a bank (Bank Secrecy Act), or with a lawyer (Attorney Client Privilege). Earlier, communication with the deafblind was possible only with the presence of a third party, a special translator who knows a sign language. This is the world's first personal device for people with simultaneous visual, hearing and speech impairments (totally deafblind people), which allows them to speak in a synthesized voice and to "hear" the interlocutor's speech in return. This YouTube video demonstrates:.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=06I--I2Njjc
7) GuideLights and Gadgets Announces New Talking Oximeter
GuideLights and Gadgets has announced a new talking oximeter that we find to be both easy to use and accurate. It uses one button to operate and delivers talking output in about 30 seconds. The introductory price for the remainder of September is $65, including shipping. For additional information, or to place an order, contact GuideLights and Gadgets at:Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
8) Here's Everything Apple Announced at Its September 14th Event
Apple's highly anticipated iPhone 13 event took place on Tuesday,September 14th 2021 and we have tons of information to share. Apple kicked off its fall "California Streaming" show by immediately debuting an all-new and bigger iPad Mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and more, but surprisingly, there are no new AirPods:https://www.reviewgeek.com/97685/heres-everything-apple-just-announced-at-its-september-14th-event/
9) NVDA 2021.2 Released
NV Access is pleased to announce that version 2021.2 of NVDA, the free screen reader for Microsoft Windows, is now available for download. We encourage all users to upgrade to this version. Highlights: NVDA 2021.2 introduces preliminary Windows 11 support. While Windows 11 is yet to be released, this release has been tested on preview versions of Windows 11. This includes an important fix for Screen Curtain (see important note). The COM Registration Fixing Tool can now resolve more problems when running NVDA. There are updates to the synthesizer eSpeak and braille translator LibLouis. There are also various bug fixes and improvements, notably for braille support and Windows terminals, calculator, emoji panel and clipboard history:https://www.nvaccess.org/post/nvda-2021-2/
10) Windows 10 Keeps Freezing Up? 9 Ways to Fix It
You're working on a project, playing a game, or browsing the web, and your Windows 10 computer keeps freezing up. You have to restart your computer. We've all been there. Why is this happening, and how can you fix it?https://helpdeskgeek.com/help-desk/windows-10-keeps-freezing-up-9-ways-to-fix/
11) How to Dial An Extension on an iPhone & Save Extensions to Contacts (iOS 15 Update)
Bypass phone trees by learning how to call an extension and how to add extensions to phone numbers in your iPhone Contacts:https://www.iphonelife.com/content/how-to-dial-extension-your-iphone
12) First Public Beta of JAWS 2022 Now Available
The first public beta of JAWS 2022 is now available for anyone who wishes to test it and provide feedback and bug reports to Freedom Scientific. You can read about its new features and download it from the following link:https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/PublicBeta
13) Better Voices for Office Read Aloud
The Read Aloud feature in Word 365 and Outlook 365 is getting fewer but much better and realistic sounding voices:https://office-watch.com/2021/better-voices-for-office-read-aloud/
14) How to Find the Hidden Files on Your Phone or Computer
You shouldn't mess with some of them — but there are others you should be aware of:https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-find-hidden-files-windows-macos-android-ios/
15) KeePass 2.49 Password Manager is Out With Auto-Type, Accessibility and Usability Improvements
The developer of the KeePass password manager application, Dominik Reichl, released the new version KeePass 2.49 on September 10, 2021. KeePass is a powerful local password manager that can be extended in various forms, including through plugins that extend functionality and by installing third-party programs that are compatible. Using these tools, users may use KeePass in any browser and on any device that they are using, just like commercial password managers:https://www.ghacks.net/2021/09/11/keepass-2-49-password-manager-is-out-with-auto-type-accessibility-and-usability-improvements/
16) My Thoughts on The Victor Reader Trek From Humanware by David Goldfield
A couple of months ago I received my Victor Reader Trek. It was a device I never thought I would ever want to own but after using it for only a short time I'm now realizing that it's something I would not want to be without:https://davidgoldfield.wordpress.com/2021/09/12/my-thoughts-on-the-victor-reader-trek-from-humanware/
17) Learn How To Use Voiceover For Music And Entertainment Apps In This Series Of 6 Workshops From The Hadley Entertainment Series
Episodes include: iPhone/iPad VoiceOver: Music Library Basics. iPhone/iPad VoiceOver: Music Player Basics. iPhone/iPad VoiceOver: Audio Description Basics. iPhone/iPad VoiceOver: Audio Descriptions in iTunes. iPhone/iPad VoiceOver: The App Store. iPhone/iPad VoiceOver: Voice Dream Reader App:https://hadley.edu/workshops/entertainment-series
18) Webinar Recording: Time to Refresh Your Shortcuts by Sight and Sound Technology | September 8th 2021
Sharon Lyons is an employee of Sight and Sound Technology who loves keyboard shortcuts. A recent webinar from Sight and Sound features Sharon who shares some of her favorites in a YouTube video at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=42-31ZBr0vQ&t=983s. Sharon also has her own Web site. Sharon's Shortcuts. Not only does it offer lists of keyboard shortcuts but you can even sign up to receive a weekly email containing a new keyboard shortcut to learn about at:https://sharons-shortcuts.ie
19) Shortwave Radios Keep Up With Tech
There's still lots to listen to, and new ways to do it:https://www.radioworld.com/news-and-business/headlines/shortwave-radios-keep-up-with-tech
20) Smart Homes Made Simple: Your Guide to Smart Home Technology. A Downloadable Guide Written By The Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation (PATF)
Smart home technology can make it possible to live with greater independence, autonomy, safety, security, and joy. This guide has been written by Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation (PATF) to help people with disabilities and older adults learn to successfully integrate smart home technology into their homes and lives. We hope this guide will empower you to explore the most current smart home technology, develop a framework to choose your technology, and build a team who can support you in achieving your goals:https://smarthomesmadesimple.org/guide/
21) Samsung Care Plus: What to Know About Samsung's Take on AppleCare
What does Samsung Care Plus cover and is it worth getting? We read the fine print:https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/samsung-care-plus-what-to-know-about-samsungs-take-on-applecare/#ftag=CADf328eec
22) 11 Accessibility Hacks From and For the Disability Community on TikTok
TikTok never ceases to amaze me, especially when it comes to its life hacks (who knew you could attach AirPods to your laptop?). With so many life-changing ways to make everyday jobs easier, it was clear to me that these disability and accessibility hacks (that I may or may not have found going down a TikTok rabbit hole) had to be shared. From hacks for blind people that make it easy to pour coffee to simpler ways to carry groceries as a wheelchair user — there are so many creative approaches to making everyday tasks easier. Ahead, find a few of our favorites we've discovered on the app, and feel free to journey down your own life hack rabbit hole: we won't judge:https://www.popsugar.com/smart-living/accessibility-hacks-on-tiktok-48500955
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) McDonald's Installs Vispero Technology in Kiosks for Blind, Low Vision Customers
McDonald's has selected Vispero's assistive technology to provide blind and low vision customers with an accessible kiosk experience, according to a press release. Vispero's JAWS Kiosk has already been deployed to select McDonald's U.S. company-owned restaurants, as well as newly deployed kiosks in U.S. franchise locations:https://www.kioskmarketplace.com/news/mcdonalds-installs-vispero-technology-in-kiosks-for-blind-low-vision-customers/
2) FlickType Developer Suing Apple Again Over Apple Watch Keyboard
Responding to Apple Watch Series 7's new QuickPath keyboard, the developer of seemingly similar app FlickType has tweeted that he plans to sue:https://appleinsider.com/articles/21/09/14/flicktype-developer-suing-apple-again-over-apple-watch-keyboard?utm_medium=rss
3) Why Linux Is More Accessible Than Windows and macOS
Linux ships with several apps specially developed for differently-abled people. But what makes it better than other OSes in terms of accessibility?https://www.makeuseof.com/why-linux-is-more-accessible-than-windows-macos/
4) Roots Food Group Signs Binding Letter of Intent With Be My Eyes to Provide Medically Tailored Meals to 5M+ Community of Volunteers, Blind, and Low-Vision Individuals
Roots Food Group, a mission-driven technology, healthcare, philanthropic and food company that believes in creating healthy outcomes through 'Food is Medicine', has signed a binding letter of intent with Be My Eyes to provide medically tailored meals to their community of 5M+ volunteers, blind and visually impaired individuals:https://finance.yahoo.com/news/roots-food-group-signs-binding-134000436.html
5) Accessibility Employment Opportunities At Apple
WatchOS Accessibility Engineerhttps://jobs.apple.com/en-us/details/200286146/watchos-accessibility-engineer?team=SFTWR
iOS Automation Accessibility Engineer
https://jobs.apple.com/en-us/details/200286138/ios-automation-accessibility-engineer?team=SFTWR
Accessibility Triage & Screening Analyst
https://jobs.apple.com/en-us/details/200284876/accessibility-triage-screening-analyst?team=SFTWR
6) Braille Ale Raspberry Gose Wins "Best Can Design" Award
The limited-edition accessible beer is back for a second run after winning at the Craft Beer Marketing Awards:https://www.cincinnatimagazine.com/article/braille-ale-raspberry-gose-wins-best-can-design-award/
7) Audio Killed The Video Call
Is the future really audio? While the trendiness of audio-centric apps is exciting, they raise important concerns regarding accessibility for the blind and vision-impaired as well as Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities:https://this.org/2021/09/10/audio-killed-the-video-call/
8) NIH-Funded Modern "White Cane" Brings Navigation Assistance to the 21st Century
Equipped with a color 3D camera, an inertial measurement sensor, and its own on-board computer, a newly improved robotic cane could offer blind and visually impaired users a new way to navigate indoors. When paired with a building's architectural drawing, the device can accurately guide a user to a desired location with sensory and auditory cues, while simultaneously helping the user avoid obstacles like boxes, furniture, and overhangs:https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-funded-modern-white-cane-brings-navigation-assistance-21st-century
9) 'Flying Blind" Play Shares Everyday Experiences of Blind and Visually Impaired Individuals
Blind or visually impaired (BVI) people navigate a world built for sighted people everyday, but how often do sighted people truly see these individuals or understand their experiences? The audio play Flying Blind! offers a candid look at life for BVI people, with plenty of insights for sighted folks to take note of. Produced by South Seattle-based Anything is Possible Theatre Company (AIP) and written by and with the blind and low-vision community, the play is a series of audio scenes, sounds, original songs, and music that together illustrate some situations BVI people encounter — situations that can be frustrating, misunderstood, or even comical:.https://southseattleemerald.com/2021/09/13/flying-blind-shares-the-everyday-experiences-of-blind-and-visually-impaired-individuals/
10) 'See': A Blind Consultant Is on the Crew to Ensure Visual Impairment Is Portrayed Realistically
'See' takes place in an apocalyptic era after a virus wipes out the human population leaving two million surviving humans who lost their sense of sight. The series takes place six centuries later, where humanity has managed to live and adapt without sight and has found new ways to build, hunt, socially interact and do other things as they would with vision:https://www.cheatsheet.com/entertainment/see-blind-consultant-crew-ensure-visual-impairment-portrayed-realistically.html/
11) Americans With Disabilities Less Likely Than Those Without To Own Some Digital Devices
More than 40 million people in the United States have a disability, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. But even as majorities of these Americans report having certain technologies, the digital divide between those who have a disability and those who do not remains for some devices:https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2021/09/10/americans-with-disabilities-less-likely-than-those-without-to-own-some-digital-devices/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Blind Android Users 40 | It's Text Editing Time!
September 11th 2021 | In this episode we talk about what is new in Android 12 Beta 5. We discuss the text editor apps that we use and demo notepad free and old school editor. We have a detailed demo of Voxmate app. We have another episode in our series of Commentary screen reader and Talkback tutorials. We have a tip of the week for Samsung phone users. To listen to this episode please visit this playlist:https://tinyurl.com/kmmncm7v
2) Eyes on Success 2138 Maxima Computer Algebra System
September 15th 2021Maxima is a computer algebra system (CAS) that enables the user to work with complex mathematical expressions. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Robert Dodier, one of the developers of Maxima, about the capabilities of this free, open source program and also demonstrate how it can be used with a screen reader by those who are blind:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202138.htm
3) Mosen At Large 148
September 14th 2021 A recap of Apple's California Streaming event from a blindness perspective:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/39cd0f4e/a-recap-of-apple-s-california-streaming-event-from-a-blindness-perspective
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) ElBraille Q&A with Elita and Vispero
September 17th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Dear ElBraille users. We are happy to invite you for another upcoming Q&A meeting with us and Vispero, which will take place this Friday, September 17th 2021. We are trying to always change times to better accommodate everyone as much as possible, so this time, we have adjusted the time to better match the time for our European and UK friends. We will discuss the upcoming ElBraille software releases, JAWS 2022 features, but most of the time, as always, will be yours to ask questions. Joining me for this meeting, as always, is Ron Miller, blindness technology product specialist at Vispero, and Svetlana Vasilieva, our assistive technology product specialist here at Elita Group. Zoom meeting details: Meeting ID: 813 8477 7367 | Passcode: 794260 | One tap mobile: +74999516379,,81384777367#,,,,*794260# Russia | +74999516380,,81384777367#,,,,*794260# Russia:Find your local number at: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kcz2XyOjlh
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81384777367?pwd=TWEyMXJJZGpKbEg5SldMclFPN0EzUT09
2) Virtual ISLAND Conference hosted by Princeton University
September 17th 2021 through September 18th 2021 | The Inclusion in Science, Learning A New Direction, Conference on Disability and STEM will be held virtually on Friday, September 17th and Saturday, September 18th 2021. This year's conference will be hosted by Princeton University. Online registration is now open for this year's conference. For more information regarding registration and other details, go to:https://islandconference.org
3) Accessing and Customizing Windows 10 Settings With Assistive Technology - Access Ingenuity
September 22nd 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos, Mark Schafer, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity as they explain the Settings App of Windows 10 and provide many examples and tips to better navigate, search, and customize your Windows 10 Settings. Unlike previous versions of Windows, most settings are now customized under the new Settings App of Windows 10. In some cases, changes will not take place unless configured in Settings. For example, even if you agree to make the current browser the default within that browser, it now still needs to be finalized in Settings. Learning Outcomes: Introduce the different ways to open the Settings App. Understand the Settings layout and how to use keyboard commands to best navigate the various options. Discover the different ways to search for specific settings. Explore some popular settings such as setting default apps, Windows Updates, managing devices, and more. Meeting ID: 825 5600 7846 | Passcode: 418662 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,82556007846#,,,,*418662# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose):https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82556007846?pwd=SGU4RG4xN2ZPZG9OQVFwTHM2aGtxZz09
4) Can Everybody See My Screen?
September 22nd 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | After more than a year of adjusting to a remote work environment, we still rely heavily on technology to present and collaborate among teams. However, it's important to remember that different people perceive information, well, differently. And virtual communication is no exception. Join TPGi Accessibility Engineer, Doug Abrams, WAS, to discuss what it means to be inclusive when presenting over video calls. In our introductory webinar, we will discuss some of the challenges people with visual disabilities may encounter when attending a virtual presentation, as well as helpful techniques to make your presentation more accessible. Register today!https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-september-22-can-everybody-see-my-screen/
5) A Closer Look at the New Envision Glasses - Access Ingenuity
September 29th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos, Mark Schafer, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity for a look at the exciting new Envision glasses. The Envision glasses use the cutting edge Google Glasses platform as a way for a visually impaired user to gain access to their environment. They give you the ability to scan text, be it handwritten notes, books or your favorite recipe. Using the built in camera, you can call someone and have them see from your point of view, to help you pick out the perfect outfit or help you navigate a challenging obstacle. Join us to learn more about the additional features these glasses offer and how they differ from other wearable technologies currently on the market. Attendees from previous presentations on the glasses can still benefit from this since new features will be introduced. In addition, there are plans to present some live examples of the call feature for a blind person to get help during this presentation! Learning Outcomes: Convenience of using the Scan Text and Instant Text features. How Scene Description can offer more independence. How the glasses use cutting edge technology to help you do more. Explore new features since our last glasses presentation. Benefits and uses of the Video Call feature. Meeting ID: 856 9427 2978 | Passcode: 248303 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,85694272978#,,,,*248303# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85694272978?pwd=dVFKb3ZYSndnUjBPekhsVm0rQXpQZz09
6) Native Mobile Application Testing
September 30th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | The number of apps for mobile devices is ever-growing. It's important that mobile apps be accessible and inclusive, but it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the thought of incorporating them into your accessibility-evaluation strategy. Join TPGi Accessibility Engineer Laurie Pagano for an introduction to some of the mobile-device settings, assistive technologies, and other tools that you can add to your accessibility-testing toolbox. Set yourself up for success so you can start testing native mobile apps for accessibility conformance today. Register today!https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-september-30-native-mobile-app-testing/
7) Gadgets, Apps & Resources for Your Health by The Technology User Group
October 2nd 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | On Saturday, October 2nd 2021, the Technology User Group will take a close look at health resources, apps and gadgets. There are thousands of health resources available, but if they lack accessibility, they will be of little use to you. We will be looking at many aspects of health and showcasing some of the best resources. Please note that for this event and the event in November, we are meeting on the first Saturday of the month. You do not need to RSVP for this event. The presentation will begin at 10 AM and last about an hour. All Technology User Group meetings are virtual and may be joined by calling:(319) 527-4994 📱️
8) 2021 M-Enabling Summit - Promoting Accessible Technologies and Environments
October 4th - 6th 2021 | The M-Enabling Summit Conference and Showcase is dedicated to promoting digital environments and assistive technologies for senior citizens and users of all abilities. It is an annual meeting place for all who implement digital inclusion strategies or develop assistive solutions and accessible digital contents and services for workplaces, learning environments or consumer markets:https://m-enabling.com/
9) Sense-Ability. Using the BrailleSense 6! | Paid Course | Hartgen Consulting
October 6th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6 GMT | While the BrailleSense 6 is a relatively new product, largely due to previous devices offered by its manufacturers it has already established itself as a power house for work and entertainment. Find out how it works in a way which makes Braille Sense!http://hartgen.org/braillesense
10) The 3rd Annual Digital Accessibility Legal Summit
October 7th 2021 through October 8th 2021 | American University Washington College of Law, Washington, D.C. This event is primarily Online, with in-person participation options still to be determined. Please note that this Summit is in the same week and in the same vicinity as the M-Enabling Summit. The premier annual event for digital accessibility legal practioners. In-depth talks and panels. Featuring leaders from the digital accessibility and legal fields. Tackling big practice issues:https://accessibility.legal/
11) GAconf | A Game Development Conference Dedicated to Making Games More Accessible to Gamers with Disabilities, Hosted by the IGDA's Accessibility SIG
October 11th 2021 through October 12th 2021 | The full line-up has been announced for the free-to-attend online edition of accessibility conference GAconf, taking place on October 11th-12th 2021. GAconf is a game development conference dedicated to making games more accessible to gamers with disabilities, hosted by the IGDA's accessibility SIG. The event features talks and networking for all disciplines of the games industry, exploring recent and future advances in game accessibility. The 2021 event will be free to attend and held through video conferencing and Discord. Topics include Far Cry 6's methodology for accessibility user research, how the Diablo 2 team tackled accessibility of remasters, audio description for blind gamers, Insomniac's journey through Spider-Man, Miles Morales and Ratchet & Clank: A Rift Apart; case studies on indie accessibility gems The Vale and The Big Con, how to communicate complex information through sound for blind gamers, panel discussion on representation of disabled characters, lived experiences of gaming with motor impairments, what legally blind gamers see, how to make horror games scary for all? players, how Roblox enables and supports accessibility of user generated content, and more! Speakers include indie accessibility superstars Falling Squirrel and Mighty Yell through to AAAs and publishers like EA, Insomniac, Blizzard and Ubisoft, and disabled gamers advocates and specialists such as Paul Amadeus Lane, James Rath, and Courtney Craven:https://www.gaconf.com/
12) Accessing Higher Ground Accessible Media, Web and Technology Conference by Association on Higher Education And Disability (AHEAD)
November 15th 2021 Through November 19th 2021 | Presented and hosted by AHEAD, Accessing Higher Ground is conducted in collaboration with ATHEN:https://accessinghigherground.org/
13) 2nd Annual Sight Tech Global 2021
December 1st & 2nd 2021 | 100% free. 100% virtual. Sight Tech Global is the first global, virtual conference dedicated to fostering discussion among technology pioneers on how rapid advances in AI and related technologies will fundamentally alter the landscape of assistive technology and accessibility. Registration is now open:https://sighttechglobal.com/
14) Axe-Con 2022
March 15th 2022 through March 17th 2022 | Axe-con is an open and inclusive digital accessibility conference that welcomes developers, designers, business users, and accessibility professionals of all experience levels to a new kind of accessibility conference focused on building, testing, and maintaining accessible digital experiences. Register for axe-con 2022, it's free! Join us for this three-day, multi-track conference to help further your digital accessibility efforts. Hear from the top experts in the field, for your area of interest with none of the noise. Learn more about why you should attend or get started by saving your seat by registering now:https://www.deque.com/axe-con/
➜ Surveys
1) Availability Of Healthcare Information To Blind And Visually Impaired Healthcare Users During The COVID Pandemic
Clsoe Date: September 30th 2021 Dear Listers, this is Sushil Oswal from the University of Washington. I am the principal investigator on a survey about the availability of healthcare information to blind and low-vision consumers during the past 18 months. This is an important survey for our blindness community because it will give us an opportunity to express our experiences of finding healthcare information during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please give us as much of your personal experiences as you can so that our study could create a comprehensive picture of the healthcare information barriers blind people face particularly under pandemic conditions. We will do a small draw of ten $25 gift cards for this survey. Besides publishing in academic journals, we will be producing a report on the basis of this healthcare information survey which will be shared with as many local and state-level health departments as possible. This report will also be available to blindness community at large. To complete the survey, please click the link below. If you have any questions about the survey, or you have difficulty completing the survey, please email me at oswal@u.washington.edu 📧️. Our human subjects approval includes a permission to conduct this survey over the phone if necessary. So, do not hesitate to email me privately if you face computer issues while completing this survey. My co-investigator and I will maintain your privacy in all possible circumstances:https://uwt.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_d4FBAWsGQwBwtOC
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Perfect BrailleSense Polaris 32
Listing Date: 9/16/2021 | Price: $1,450.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: We have one unused Hims Braille Sense Polaris 32. This notetaker has powerful built-in capabilities and can also be used as a 32 cell Braille display and Braille keyboard for your computer and/or phone. | Contact: Email cs567eml@gmail.com 📧️ or (408) 659-1374 📱️. |2) FOR SALE: One Victor Reader Stream TREK
Listing Date: 9/16/2021 | Price: $60.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: This VR TREK will need a new battery, and the small clip that holds the battery in is broken, you may be able to have this fixed, or you could just use tape to hold the battery in. Other than that it works just fine. Comes with its originall carrying case. | Contact: Email jflower418@gmail.com 📧️. |3) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: A. T. Guys
➜ Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: Blind Mice Mega Mall
Sponsor Since: September 23rd 2021
Website: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/ 🌐
Blind Mice Order Center Phone: (866) 922-8877 📱️
Blind Mice Order Center Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM CST/CDT (GMT-5) Monday through Friday
Mall Directory of Stores: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com/bmm/shop/Directory 🛒
Join The Today's Cheese Newsletter: Join the Today's Cheese newsletter to get Members' Only sales & Unadvertised Specials from the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You can save money with these unadvertised specials! Send an email to: TodaysCheese+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
Blind Mice Swap Shop: Sell, Swap, and Buy. The Mice receive calls everyday asking if we buy or sell used or unwanted items. The Mice don't sell used products but to help our members, we created the Blind Mice Swap Shop! The Blind Mice Swap Shop is the place for Sellers, Traders, & Buyers to find each other! Do you ... have something you don't want anymore... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something you just don't use... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Got something new to sell... Post it for sale on the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Provide a service that might be helpful to other Blind and Visually Impaired folks... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Have an announcement about an upcoming event beneficial to the Blind & Visually Impaired Community... Post it to the Blind Mice Swap Shop. Joining the Blind Mice Swap Shop is free and as easy as sending an email to: BlindMiceSwapShop+Subscribe@Groups.io 📧️
About: Welcome to Blind Mice Mega Mall! The Mall with the Blind In Mind! Blind Mice Mega Mall is designed for use with a screen reader and low vision software for visually impaired shoppers. Each store is an independent business owned / managed by a member of the Blind / Low Vision Community. Please browse & shop the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. You will find great items and unique offerings from our merchants. You help the Blind Community every time you make a purchase from any of the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall. Every purchase made at Blind Mice Mega Mall gives back to the Blind and Visually Impaired Community. Proceeds from sales fund the MouseHole Scholarship Program, the Cooking In The Dark Show and The Movie Vault. Blind Mice Mega Mall accepts American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, Checks, and Money Orders. Purchase Orders From State Agencies are also welcome.
Sponsor: Carroll Center for the Blind
➜ Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
https://carroll.org/screen-reader-user-tester-training-program/
Sponsor Since: August 5th 2021
Website: https://carroll.org/ 🌐
Phone: (617) 969-6200 📱️
Fax: (617) 969-6204 ░Shop: https://carroll.org/store/ 🛒
Donate: https://carroll.org/donate ❤
Social: Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | LinkedIn | Instagram
About: The Carroll Center for the Blind is the foremost leader in vision rehabilitation services for individuals confronted by the challenges of vision loss. Our mission is to empower those who are blind or visually impaired to achieve independence and to lead a fulfilling life. Established in 1936, the renowned Carroll Center for the Blind has been serving those with vision impairment for over eight decades; we are known nationally as a premier Vision Rehabilitation Center. Located just outside of Boston on a sprawling campus in Newton, Massachusetts, we proudly serve ALL ages and ALL stages of vision loss. With the ongoing promise of improving the lives of people with vision-related problems, The Carroll Center for the Blind has pioneered many innovative services allowing people who are blind or have low vision to learn the skills to be independent in their homes, in class settings, and in their work places. Our services include vision rehabilitation, vocational and transition programs, assistive technology training, educational support, and recreation opportunities for individuals who are visually impaired of all ages. For over 80 years, the expertise of Carroll Center staff has provided help for thousands of blind and visually impaired persons with diverse opportunities for success and independent living.
Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions
➜ The 50% Introductory Rate for Scribe for Meetings is Coming to a Close!
https://pneumasolutions.com/scribe-for-meetings-promotion-expiring-soon/
Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ VisionAware Resources Including the Directory of Services
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/091620211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ Accessible Pharmacy Joins Be My Eyes
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Build A Foundational Understanding Of Construction And Electronics With BRIC: Structures® Access Kit From APH - An Adapted Version Of An Educational Elenco® Product For Students Who Are Blind And Visually Impaired!
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ GuideLights And Gadgets: New For Fall
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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!
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|
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, September 9, 2021 - Volume 823 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, September 9, 2021 - Volume 823
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Two Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Packages Available! Join 10 Other AT Industry Leaders in Supporting Tidbits While Reaching Over 6,700 Assistive Technology Professionals, Educators and Enthusiasts Each Week! All For Just $25 A Week!
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Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) The AT Social Hub: We Need to Talk About WeWalk (YouTube Video: August 22nd 2021): (8.1% of all clicks.)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_zWA-HGeWxw
B.) How Apple's HomePod Mini Finally Gives Blind People an Affordable HomeKit Hub: (7.5% of all clicks.)
https://accessibility-insights.com/2021/08/25/how-apples-homepod-mini-finally-gives-blind-people-an-affordable-homekit-hub/
C.) AppleVis Unlimited: What's New and Noteworthy for August 2021: (5.4% of all clicks.)
https://www.applevis.com/newsletter/applevis-unlimited-whats-new-and-noteworthy-august-2021
D.) Take Control of Just About Anything with Take Control Books: (4.7% of all clicks.)
https://www.steves.life/take-control-of-just-about-anything-with-take-control-books/
E.) The Best Text to Speech Extensions for Chrome: (4.1% of all clicks.)
https://www.ghacks.net/2021/08/31/best-text-to-speech-extensions-for-chrome/
2) Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Packages. Two Currrently Available.
Please help us to support the ongoing distribution of this publication. Join 10 other AT industry leaders in supporting Tidbits and begin reaching over 6,700 assistive technology professionals, educators and enthusiasts each week for just $25 a week. There's nothing else quite like it. And that's just the exposure that you'll receive. The additional marketing benefits are pretty amazing too. If this sounds intriguing to you, please reach out to our publisher today at: publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️. Or learn more at:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
3) Top Tech Tidbits Now Seeking Two Paid Editorial Contributors To Join Our Team. Deadline Moved Up. Both Positons Fully Remote. Details Here.
We have received so many applications for the originally announced position in just the first week that we have made the decision to move the deadline up to September 15th 2021. So there's still time, but the window is now closing. In addition, because we have received applications from so many editors that we believe would truly make Tidbits even better than it is today, we have also made the decision to hire a 2nd paid Editorial Contributor from this very same applicant pool, in addition to the 1st paid Editorial Contributor position that we announced last week. This 2nd paid Editorial Contributor will now mark our limit to the number of paid editors that Tidbits can sustain at any one time. Two. In additon to the two that volunteer on behalf of Mind Vault. From all of us here at Tidbits I cannot tell you how very excited we are to welcome two new editors aboard. And we know that readers are excited too. For those of you that have already applied, thank you. We are truly humbled. We had no idea that so many people wished to be involved in Tidbits. But now, we hear you. And we will continue to look for ways to get more of you involved. For those still interested, we encourage you to apply by or before September 15th 2021. Updated information on both positions can now be found here:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/40.html
4) Accessible Online Editor for Python
I am Syed Billah; I am an assistant professor at the Pennsylvania State University. One of our research agenda is to make computer programming accessible to students with vision impairments. Our lab recently developed a research prototype of an accessible online editor for Python. Programming languages like Python are predominantly visual. As a result, sighted programmers often rely on visual cues, such as empty spaces, highlighting parentheses, to write error-free code in an editor. Unfortunately, most editors fail to properly convey these visual cues in audio, making it difficult to write code non-visually. We hope our prototype overcomes these challenges and lets someone writes Python code non-visually. Currently, we are running a study to test this prototype. We invite adults with vision impairments who are familiar with Python to participate in our study.Participants will be asked to read/write simple Python code non-visually using screen readers (e.g., NVDA). The study will be conducted over Zoom video conferencing software. It will take 2 hours, and we'll pay an Amazon Gift card of USD $50 to compensate for the individual's time. Please note that payment may take a week due to the official process. If you are interested, don't hesitate to contact me, Syed Billah at sbillah@psu.edu. Thank you. Syed M. Billah, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, College of Information Science and Technology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania:https://nvda.groups.io/g/nvda/topic/85327792
5) Getting to Know Your New BrailleSense6: Using Google Drive (YouTube Video)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oxXuYZHY1ZE6) 10 Best eBook Reader Apps for Android You Need to Know
In the digital age, eBook reader apps have replaced conventional printed books. Now you can simply read your favorite book on your smartphone or tablet by downloading apps on your Android device. Several of the eBook apps even provide hundreds of free books. With these apps, you can quickly search for a book of your choice and start reading them right away. You no longer have to visit physical stores to buy books. Here are some of the best eBook reader apps for Android:https://www.lifehack.org/articles/technology/10-best-ebook-reader-apps-for-android-you-need-know.html
7) Getting to Know Your New BrailleSense6: Configuring and Using Email (YouTube Video)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wnxtNShqKnc8) How Do I Make Personal Google Play Books Voice Readable?
You can use Google's Text-to-Speech app from the Play Store. It allows you to read text on the screen aloud by using the device's text-to-speech feature. As mentioned in the description, it can be used by: Google Play Books to "Read Aloud" your favourite book. Google Translate to speak translations aloud so you can hear the pronunciation of a word. TalkBack and accessibility applications for spoken feedback across your device. And many other applications. To use Google Text-to-speech on your Android device, go to Settings > Language & Input > Text-to-speech output. Select Google Text-to-speech Engine as your preferred engine:https://android.stackexchange.com/questions/111935/personal-google-play-books-how-to-make-them-voice-readable
9) Voxmate: New All-In-One Android App for the Blind, Reimagines Accessible Apps with a Simple Interface
Voxmate is a new Android app for the visually impaired, now available on Google Play. With Voxmate, you can read news, listen to audiobooks, play games and more with just four swipes - up, down, left and right. Today, there are 20 audio-first apps. Some are audible interfaces to popular services like YouTube and Telegram, and some are originals, like the Audio Forum. Unlike traditional screen readers, Voxmate was designed from the ground up to focus on a great audio experience rather than describing what's on the screen. It is easy to learn, even for people who have difficulty with Talkback and VoiceOver. Voxmate is free to use for a limited time per week. If you sign up for a monthly or annual subscription, this restriction is lifted. During Early Access, subscriptions are discounted by 75%:https://voxmate.com/
10) Introduction to RoboBraille
RoboBraille is an e-mail and web-based service capable of automatically transforming documents into a variety of alternate formats for the visually and reading impaired. RoboBraille is accessible 24/7 as a self-service solution and is available free of charge to individual, non-commercial user not affiliated with an institutional setting obligated to provide support (academic institution, organisation, association or similar). Users need not register in order to use the service. The objective is to support and promote self-sufficiency of people with special needs socially, throughout the educational system and on the labour market. As an additional benefit, RoboBraille helps to protect the privacy of of those who need material in alternate formats. Convert a file for free here:https://www.robobraille.org/
11) Getting to Know Your New BrailleSense6: Downloading Android Apps from Google Play Store (YouTube Video)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xj8chWnChX012) Firefox 92: Some Accessibility Improvements
Improvements include: (1) Performance with screen readers and other accessibility tools is no longer severely degraded if Mozilla Thunderbird is installed or updated after Firefox. (2) MacOS VoiceOver now correctly reports buttons and links marked as 'expanded' using the aria-expanded attribute. (3) An open alert in a tab no longer causes performance issues in other tabs using the same process:https://www.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/92.0/releasenotes/
13) Technology Blog and Podcast By Shaun Everiss
While this technology blog and podcast are not always AT-specific, they both contain an incredible amount of very useful technical information. Shaun is a long time Supporter, Reader and Partner to Top Tech Tidbits:https://technology.jaredrimer.net/
14) Notes on Synthetic Speech | September 3rd 2021
I use a screen reader and it sounds the same, whatever I'm doing - reading an email from a friend, reading news of a global disaster, reading something in the first-person female or first-person transgender, shopping for clothes or scrutinising a business contract. Although the quality of voices used by screen readers is OK, you're never in any doubt that you're listening to synthetic speech - and believe me, it's boring!.https://tink.uk/notes-on-synthetic-speech/
15) Hadley Labels for Everyday Use Series
This series includes 4 workshops titled: "Labels: Label it Large," "Labels: Audio Labels," Labels: Labels You Touch," and "Labels: Medications:"https://hadley.edu/workshops/labels-for-everyday-use-series
16) Getting to Know Your New BrailleSense6: Using New Features (YouTube Video)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PbaG6LF17W017) In-Process for September 3rd 2021
We're continuing to get closer to the release of NVDA 2021.2, so let's dive into that first this week:https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-3rd-september-2021/
18) NVDA 2021.2rc1 Available for Testing
The Release Candidate (RC) of NVDA 2021.2 is now available for download and testing. We encourage all users to download this RC and provide feedback. Unless any critical bugs are found, this will be identical to the final 2021.2 release:https://www.nvaccess.org/post/nvda-2021-2rc1/
19) Free APH Mantis Q40 Audio Documentation by Mystic Access
Experience Audio Documentation that is Easy to Navigate, Highly Structured and Professionally Produced. Mystic Access is thrilled to have collaborated with APH to create audio documentation for the Mantis Q40. In these three hours of comprehensive content, you will be guided through the documentation by Kim Nova, a totally blind, female Mantis user in a warm, friendly and highly-structured manner. Professionally recorded, edited and produced in-house by Mystic Access, you will find the documentation to be a pleasant listening experience. Available in both DAISY and MP3 formats, you may choose how and where you listen to the audio. Please read below for the full table of contents for this audio documentation:https://www.mysticaccess.com/free-aph-mantis-q40-audio-documentation/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) The Challenges Visually-Impaired People Have in the Workplace
In recent years, organizations all over the country have started to recognize the importance of making everyone feel safe, included, and comfortable in the workplace. As a result, the modern office has become more diverse in terms of gender, race, sexual orientation, and religion. However, we still have a long way to go when it comes to making the workplace more inclusive towards people with disabilities — especially to those who are blind or visually-impaired. This has undoubtedly discouraged and obstructed visually-impaired adults from pursuing a full time job, and it is estimated that more than 70% of them remain unemployed today:https://www.supersense.app/post/the-challenges-visually-impaired-people-have-in-the-workplace
2) The Issues With Accessibility at Live Music Venues
Although for a while it felt like we'd never step foot into a concert again, the recent Boris-approved abandonment of most Covid measures marks the return of live music. This also means the return of the well-established accessibility issues that have always plagued concert-goers with disabilities. From painfully understaffed disabled booking lines to inaccessible seating, people with disabilities have to jump through many metaphorical hoops in order to be able to enjoy live music. As we take these first steps back to live shows, I want to reflect on my experiences of concerts, and how gigs can be made accessible to more people:https://theboar.org/2021/09/accessibility-at-music-venues/
3) Strawberry Field Leads The Way in Accessibility To All, With Advanced Features
Strawberry Field, the world-famous site immortalised by John Lennon in The Beatles hit, "Strawberry Fields Forever", is aiming to be the UK's Number 1 attraction for accessibility, thanks to a series of upgraded and innovative features:https://bbg.life/index.php/2021/09/03/strawberry-field-leads-the-way-in-accessibility-to-all-with-advanced-features-the-guide-liverpool/
4) Make Accessibility Part Of Your Startup's Products And Culture From Day One
The world of accessibility has experienced a tipping point thanks to the pandemic, which drove people of all abilities to do more tasks and shopping online. For the last year, the digital world was the only place brands could connect with their customers. A Forrester survey found that 8 in 10 companies have taken their first steps toward working on digital accessibility. What's driving this change besides the increased digital interactions? Fortune 500 companies are finally starting to realize that people with disabilities make up 1 billion of the world's market. That population and their families control more than $13 trillion in disposable income, according to Return on Disability's "The Global Economics of Disability:"https://techcrunch.com/2021/09/03/make-accessibility-part-of-your-startups-products-and-culture-from-day-one/
5) This Drone Device Allows The Visually Impaired To Play Badminton
Led by assistant professor yoichi ochiai, a team of students from the University of Tsukuba in Japan, have formed the digital nature group to develop technological solutions that bring humans and machines closer together. recently, the team has unveiled an innovative device that helps the visually impaired play badminton again, using a drone as a ball. although the current design specifically targets badminton enthusiasts, the project has the potential to diversify a wide range of sports and activities, thus improving both the physical and mental health of people with limited vision:https://www.designboom.com/technology/drone-device-visually-impaired-play-badminton-09-02-2021/
6) Beep Cricket - Enabling An Active And Inclusive Lifestyle With The Support Of Ian Healy
Known as one of the greatest wicketkeepers in history, Ian Healy's contributions to Blind Bats Inc and their newest venture in Beep Cricket promotes increased sporting accessibility for the blind and vision impaired. At a time when sport has been curtailed and operated in restricted environments, innovators within the cricketing domain are developing a new and improved cricket ball for blind and visually impaired players:https://www.newsmaker.com.au/news/383966/beep-cricket-enabling-an-active-and-inclusive-lifestyle-with-the-support-of-ian-healy#.YTQ9fI5KiUl
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Hadley Presents: Golfing After Vision Loss
September 3rd 2021 | Champion blind golfer Chad NeSmith talks about how vision loss shaped his life, and how he shares his passion for golf with others with vision loss:https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/golfing-after-vision-loss
2) Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther 33: Rafting the Ottawa River's Whitewater Blind
September 3rd 2021 | Lawrence and Lilly leave Lewis behind for an exciting day of whitewater rafting on the Ottawa River. Find out the technology and tips used to raft class five rapids aboard small self-bailing rafts, followed by cliff jumping. Joining the crew for the adventure is ten-year old autistic "Tegan":https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/episode-33-rafting-the-ottawa-rivers-whitewater-blind/id1530444764?i=1000534240204
3) Mosen At Large 146
September 4th 2021 New Zealand's Royal Commission into abuse in care, blindisms, tech topics and more:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/eff200d4/new-zealand-s-royal-commission-into-abuse-in-care-blindisms-tech-topics-and-more
4) Blind Android Users 39 | Don't Touch The Dial and Chat with Voxmate
September 4th 2021 | In this episode we talk about Radio apps and advantages and disadvantages of TuneIn Radio, VRadio, Simple Radio and we demo the Radio.Net app. We mention an app for our UK listeners from British Wireless for the Blind Fund, Speech Radio. We also advise that UK listeners listening to BBC programming may need to use the BBC Sounds app. We are joined by Gleb Zevkov, founder of the Voxmate app, which provides an all-in-one, self-voicing app designed for blind people. We unbox and review Google Pixel 5A:http://www.blindandroidusers.com/
5) Eyes on Success 2137 Sharing Experiences with Cochlear Implants
September 8th 2021Blind individuals rely heavily on their ability to hear in order to compensate for their lack of sight. But what happens when a blind person loses their hearing? Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey join a conversation between Jim Snowbarger and Greg Green, both of whom are blind and both of whom have cochlear implants, about their experiences with the implants:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202137.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) TOPAZ Ultra Training Webinar
September 9th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Are you looking for the functionality of a desktop video magnifier but the flexibility to take it with you from room to room? The TOPAZ Ultra offers the same reading comfort, ease of use, and functionality as a desktop video magnifier — but in a compact and foldable design. Join Mike Wood as he goes over all the features and benefit of TOPAZ Ultra:https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_uTRsGQWPR6mClAKjnsMqMA?utm_campaign=LV_Webinars&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=154104403&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_3_EUR-SSIjtFE7xHAVlg6FrWX1aFxemSW8iSeX8iRXUFlA0y99wHTwR170n8u8O-I8M3LeDIDGUvD0Wkbx2UBmW3jjA&utm_content=154104403&utm_source=hs_email
2) Alexa Games Presentation - Technology User Group
September 11th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | On Saturday, September 11th 2021 The Technology User Group is pleased to present a morning of games with your Alexa device. Whether you are using an Echo Show, Dot, Flex, Fire, phone or computer app, there are hundreds of games available on this operating platform but only 60 minutes to tell you about the top ones. Come and witness the best and worst that the AI world has to offer. You do not have to RSVP for this event. The presentation will last about an hour. This presentation will be virtual and may be joined by calling:(319) 527-4994 📱️
3) ONYX PRO: Next Generation Magnifier / Reader From Freedom Scientific - Access Ingenuity
September 15th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos from Access Ingenuity and special guests Joe McDaniel and Mike Woods from Freedom Scientific as we demonstrate the new ONYX PRO. The ONYX PRO easily connects to Microsoft Surface Pro 7 to magnify text or have text read aloud. Just place your Surface Pro 7 in the ONYX PRO stand, unfold the camera, and attach the camera to the stand and you are ready to go. Featuring a dual-camera design for flexibility, one camera allows you to easily go from near magnification to distance viewing. The second camera is dedicated to Document OCR (optical character recognition) mode that scans printed text and reads it back to you out loud in a clear and natural voice. The ONYX PRO is great for reading books, magazines, mail, and more! Learning Outcomes: Discover how the ONYX PRO takes us to the next level of portable magnifying/reading solutions. Understand the features and capabilities of the ONYX PRO. Explore how the ONYX PRO excels in the classroom, office or at home. Meeting ID: 870 4246 8742 | Passcode: 216057 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,87042468742#,,,,*216057# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87042468742?pwd=UWtrc2dxRDFFZVpVQVVybTBOd3lYUT09
4) Virtual ISLAND Conference hosted by Princeton University
September 17th 2021 through September 18th 2021 | The Inclusion in Science, Learning A New Direction, Conference on Disability and STEM will be held virtually on Friday, September 17th and Saturday, September 18th 2021. This year's conference will be hosted by Princeton University. Online registration is now open for this year's conference. For more information regarding registration and other details, go to:https://islandconference.org
5) Accessing and Customizing Windows 10 Settings With Assistive Technology - Access Ingenuity
September 22nd 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos, Mark Schafer, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity as they explain the Settings App of Windows 10 and provide many examples and tips to better navigate, search, and customize your Windows 10 Settings. Unlike previous versions of Windows, most settings are now customized under the new Settings App of Windows 10. In some cases, changes will not take place unless configured in Settings. For example, even if you agree to make the current browser the default within that browser, it now still needs to be finalized in Settings. Learning Outcomes: Introduce the different ways to open the Settings App. Understand the Settings layout and how to use keyboard commands to best navigate the various options. Discover the different ways to search for specific settings. Explore some popular settings such as setting default apps, Windows Updates, managing devices, and more. Meeting ID: 825 5600 7846 | Passcode: 418662 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,82556007846#,,,,*418662# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose):https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82556007846?pwd=SGU4RG4xN2ZPZG9OQVFwTHM2aGtxZz09
6) Can Everybody See My Screen?
September 22nd 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | After more than a year of adjusting to a remote work environment, we still rely heavily on technology to present and collaborate among teams. However, it's important to remember that different people perceive information, well, differently. And virtual communication is no exception. Join TPGi Accessibility Engineer, Doug Abrams, WAS, to discuss what it means to be inclusive when presenting over video calls. In our introductory webinar, we will discuss some of the challenges people with visual disabilities may encounter when attending a virtual presentation, as well as helpful techniques to make your presentation more accessible. Register today!https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-september-22-can-everybody-see-my-screen/
7) A Closer Look at the New Envision Glasses - Access Ingenuity
September 29th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos, Mark Schafer, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity for a look at the exciting new Envision glasses. The Envision glasses use the cutting edge Google Glasses platform as a way for a visually impaired user to gain access to their environment. They give you the ability to scan text, be it handwritten notes, books or your favorite recipe. Using the built in camera, you can call someone and have them see from your point of view, to help you pick out the perfect outfit or help you navigate a challenging obstacle. Join us to learn more about the additional features these glasses offer and how they differ from other wearable technologies currently on the market. Attendees from previous presentations on the glasses can still benefit from this since new features will be introduced. In addition, there are plans to present some live examples of the call feature for a blind person to get help during this presentation! Learning Outcomes: Convenience of using the Scan Text and Instant Text features. How Scene Description can offer more independence. How the glasses use cutting edge technology to help you do more. Explore new features since our last glasses presentation. Benefits and uses of the Video Call feature. Meeting ID: 856 9427 2978 | Passcode: 248303 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,85694272978#,,,,*248303# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85694272978?pwd=dVFKb3ZYSndnUjBPekhsVm0rQXpQZz09
8) Native Mobile Application Testing
September 30th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | The number of apps for mobile devices is ever-growing. It's important that mobile apps be accessible and inclusive, but it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the thought of incorporating them into your accessibility-evaluation strategy. Join TPGi Accessibility Engineer Laurie Pagano for an introduction to some of the mobile-device settings, assistive technologies, and other tools that you can add to your accessibility-testing toolbox. Set yourself up for success so you can start testing native mobile apps for accessibility conformance today. Register today!https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-september-30-native-mobile-app-testing/
9) 2021 M-Enabling Summit - Promoting Accessible Technologies and Environments
October 4th - 6th 2021 | The M-Enabling Summit Conference and Showcase is dedicated to promoting digital environments and assistive technologies for senior citizens and users of all abilities. It is an annual meeting place for all who implement digital inclusion strategies or develop assistive solutions and accessible digital contents and services for workplaces, learning environments or consumer markets:https://m-enabling.com/
10) Sense-Ability. Using the BrailleSense 6! | Paid Course | Hartgen Consulting
October 6th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6 GMT | While the BrailleSense 6 is a relatively new product, largely due to previous devices offered by its manufacturers it has already established itself as a power house for work and entertainment. Find out how it works in a way which makes Braille Sense!http://hartgen.org/braillesense
11) Accessing Higher Ground Accessible Media, Web and Technology Conference by Association on Higher Education And Disability (AHEAD)
November 15th 2021 Through November 19th 2021 | Presented and hosted by AHEAD, Accessing Higher Ground is conducted in collaboration with ATHEN:https://accessinghigherground.org/
12) 2nd Annual Sight Tech Global 2021
December 1st & 2nd 2021 | 100% free. 100% virtual. Sight Tech Global is the first global, virtual conference dedicated to fostering discussion among technology pioneers on how rapid advances in AI and related technologies will fundamentally alter the landscape of assistive technology and accessibility. Registration is now open:https://sighttechglobal.com/
13) Axe-Con 2022
March 15th 2022 through March 17th 2022 | Axe-con is an open and inclusive digital accessibility conference that welcomes developers, designers, business users, and accessibility professionals of all experience levels to a new kind of accessibility conference focused on building, testing, and maintaining accessible digital experiences. Register for axe-con 2022, it's free! Join us for this three-day, multi-track conference to help further your digital accessibility efforts. Hear from the top experts in the field, for your area of interest with none of the noise. Learn more about why you should attend or get started by saving your seat by registering now:https://www.deque.com/axe-con/
➜ Surveys
1) Availability Of Healthcare Information To Blind And Visually Impaired Healthcare Users During The COVID Pandemic
Clsoe Date: September 30th 2021 Dear Listers, this is Sushil Oswal from the University of Washington. I am the principal investigator on a survey about the availability of healthcare information to blind and low-vision consumers during the past 18 months. This is an important survey for our blindness community because it will give us an opportunity to express our experiences of finding healthcare information during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please give us as much of your personal experiences as you can so that our study could create a comprehensive picture of the healthcare information barriers blind people face particularly under pandemic conditions. We will do a small draw of ten $25 gift cards for this survey. Besides publishing in academic journals, we will be producing a report on the basis of this healthcare information survey which will be shared with as many local and state-level health departments as possible. This report will also be available to blindness community at large. To complete the survey, please click the link below. If you have any questions about the survey, or you have difficulty completing the survey, please email me at oswal@u.washington.edu 📧️. Our human subjects approval includes a permission to conduct this survey over the phone if necessary. So, do not hesitate to email me privately if you face computer issues while completing this survey. My co-investigator and I will maintain your privacy in all possible circumstances:https://uwt.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_d4FBAWsGQwBwtOC
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Focus 14 Braille Display
Listing Date: 8/19/2021 | Price: $850.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: This Braille display was only used during a couple of training sessions. Carrying case and all adaptors/charger included. | Contact: Email jflower418@gmail.com 📧️ or call Jane at (415) 858-8436 📱️. |2) FOR SALE: Mathcaster for Amazon Alexa. Just Say "Alexa, Open Mathcaster"
Listing Date: 8/19/2021 | Price: $1.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Mathcaster is suitable for ages between 8-12 and is free to play. This Alexa Skill is a perfect resource to help children improve and develop their math skills. Learn more at: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B094NDXMKF?ref&ref=cm_sw_tw_r_as_dp_KypaG8Iu9kJBy. | Contact: Email nicksawka@wanderword.net 📧️ or call Nicholas at (724) 466-2087 📱️. |3) FOR SALE: Escape from 63rd & Wallace. Just say "Alexa, Open Escape 63rd"
Listing Date: 8/19/2021 | Price: $4.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Escape from 63rd is an horror audio adventure that takes the listener on a journey to Chicago in 1893, following Charlene, a young woman searching for her sister. Learn more at: https://poptale.com/releases/escape-from-63rd-and-wallace/. | Contact: Email nicksawka@wanderword.net 📧️ or call Nicholas at (724) 466-2087 📱️. |4) FOR SALE: The Cursed Painting Audio RPG. Just say "Alexa, open the Cursed Painting"
Listing Date: 8/19/2021 | Price: $1.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Explore ancient ruins in order to uncover the secret of the Cursed Painting, and stop the undead curse plaguing the kingdom in this Interactive Fantasy Adventure Game, inspired by classic tabletop RPG's. Learn more at: https://poptale.com/releases/the-cursed-painting/. | Contact: Email nicksawka@wanderword.net 📧️ or call Nicholas at (724) 466-2087 📱️. |5) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: Carroll Center for the Blind
➜ Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
https://carroll.org/screen-reader-user-tester-training-program/
Sponsor Since: August 5th 2021
Website: https://carroll.org/ 🌐
Phone: (617) 969-6200 📱️
Fax: (617) 969-6204 ░Shop: https://carroll.org/store/ 🛒
Donate: https://carroll.org/donate ❤
Social: Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | LinkedIn | Instagram
About: The Carroll Center for the Blind is the foremost leader in vision rehabilitation services for individuals confronted by the challenges of vision loss. Our mission is to empower those who are blind or visually impaired to achieve independence and to lead a fulfilling life. Established in 1936, the renowned Carroll Center for the Blind has been serving those with vision impairment for over eight decades; we are known nationally as a premier Vision Rehabilitation Center. Located just outside of Boston on a sprawling campus in Newton, Massachusetts, we proudly serve ALL ages and ALL stages of vision loss. With the ongoing promise of improving the lives of people with vision-related problems, The Carroll Center for the Blind has pioneered many innovative services allowing people who are blind or have low vision to learn the skills to be independent in their homes, in class settings, and in their work places. Our services include vision rehabilitation, vocational and transition programs, assistive technology training, educational support, and recreation opportunities for individuals who are visually impaired of all ages. For over 80 years, the expertise of Carroll Center staff has provided help for thousands of blind and visually impaired persons with diverse opportunities for success and independent living.
Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions
➜ 3 Easy Steps To Accessible Shared Content For Your Remote Presentations: Rid Digital Darkness For Blind Attendee's Forever!
https://scribeformeetings.com/
Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ VisionAware Resources Including the Directory of Services
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/090920211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ Accessible Pharmacy Joins Be My Eyes
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Build A Foundational Understanding Of Construction And Electronics With BRIC: Structures® Access Kit From APH - An Adapted Version Of An Educational Elenco® Product For Students Who Are Blind And Visually Impaired!
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ GuideLights And Gadgets: August Specials
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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 📱️.
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, September 2, 2021 - Volume 822 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, September 2, 2021 - Volume 822
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
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Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
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Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Think You Know ALL Windows 10 Keyboard Shortcuts? Find Out in Our Full List: (7.4% of all clicks.)https://www.windowscentral.com/best-windows-10-keyboard-shortcuts
B.) Resources for Whenever Accessibility Goes Belly Up: (7.2% of all clicks.)
https://webfriendlyhelp.com/resources-for-whenever-accessibility-goes-belly-up/
C.) Step by Step Screen Reader Navigation of the Parts of the Menu Ribbon | Blind Accessibility Tips YouTube Channel: (6.0% of all clicks.)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kA6G1CkN9d8&t=202s
D.) Typing on iPhone and Rotor: (6.0% of all clicks.)
https://www.applevis.com/forum/ios-ipados/typing-iphone-and-rotor
E.) Reading Recipes with Siri or Apple Watch: (5.1% of all clicks.)
https://www.jantrid.net/2021/08/24/reading-recipes-with-siri-or-apple-watch/
2) Top Tech Tidbits "Most Clicked Tidbit" Weekly Contest | $250 USD Annual Cash Prize | Week #35 of 52
Number of Votes Last Week: 11 | Number of Winners Last Week: 2 | Winner Names: Jenny Kate Lyon and Ka Li | Current Overall Winners: Maya, Kota Prabhu, Kate Crohan and Ka Li with 2 of 52 points each. | Current 2nd Place Winners: 14 Players with 1 of 52 points each. | How well do you know adaptive technology? Do you think that you could consistently identify adaptive technology trends if given the opportunity? Well here's your chance. You can now cast your vote each week for the one Tidbit that you believe will receive the most clicks. Get it right more than anyone else each week and you win a $250.00 USD cash prize at the end of the year (December 31st 2021). In addition, there may be opportunities for winners to join our editorial team. The premise is simple and voting is easy. Can you pick the one Tidbit out of each issue that will get the most clicks? If you think you can, or at least would like to try, learn everything there is to know about the contest here and start casting your vote today:Learn More:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/36.html
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Please help us to support the ongoing distribution of this publication. Join 10 other AT industry leaders and begin reaching over 6,700 assistive technology professionals, educators and enthusiasts each week for just $25 a week. There's nothing else quite like it in the industry. And that's just the exposure that you'll receive. The additional marketing benefits are pretty amazing too. If this sounds intriguing to you, please reach out to our publisher today at: publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️. Or learn more at:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
4) Top Tech Tidbits Contributors. Now Anyone Can Submit A Tidbit. Here's How It Works.
With the announcement from Dean Martineau last week that he would be transitioning from Senior Editor to Guest Contributor many readers have asked whose voice they will be hearing within Tidbits editorial going forward. That distinction, for now at least, will reside with myself, Aaron Di Blasi, Publisher. In order to make it as easy as possible for anyone to share an important Tidbit with other Tidbit readers, we have created and made public a short form on the Tidbits website that anyone can now use to submit a potential Tidbit for consideration. This form covers ...https://www.toptechtidbits.com/38.html
5) Top Tech Tidbits Seeks Editorial Contributor To Join Our Team. Paid Position. Fully Remote. Details Here.
Top Tech Tidbits is seeking a 3rd Editorial Contributor to join our team here at Top Tech Tidbits. Complete details here ...https://www.toptechtidbits.com/39.html
6) Windows 11 Available on October 5th 2021
Last Tuesday Windows announced that Windows 11 will start to become available on October 5th 2021. On this day, the free upgrade to Windows 11 will begin rolling out to eligible Windows 10 PCs and PCs that come pre-loaded with Windows 11 will start to become available for purchase:https://blogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/2021/08/31/windows-11-available-on-october-5/
7) Aira News for August 2021
https://aira.io/aira-news-august-20218) The AT Social Hub: We Need to Talk About WeWalk (YouTube Video: August 22nd 2021)
We've heard about the WeWALK cane on a previous instalment of the AT Social Hub. When walking, WeWALK vibrates to inform you of low-hanging obstacles that the bottom of a cane may typically miss, such as a sign or tree branch. Additionally, you can pair your cane to the WeWALK app on your iOS or Android device via Bluetooth to make use of WeWALK's smart features. But, how does it work in practical terms from a user's perspective in everyday life? Our own Stuart Beveridge has just received his WeWALK and put it through its paces as only Stuart can:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_zWA-HGeWxw
9) The Best Text to Speech Extensions for Chrome
These Chrome extensions can read text aloud for you:https://www.ghacks.net/2021/08/31/best-text-to-speech-extensions-for-chrome/
10) AppleVis Unlimited: What's New and Noteworthy for August 2021
https://www.applevis.com/newsletter/applevis-unlimited-whats-new-and-noteworthy-august-202111) How Apple's HomePod Mini Finally Gives Blind People an Affordable HomeKit Hub
Finally, a usable and affordable HomeKit hub a blind person can enjoy. A nice speaker you can use with AirPlay too, at half the price of an Apple TV. VoiceOver works great on it with no hardware modifications. It's a considerable win:https://accessibility-insights.com/2021/08/25/how-apples-homepod-mini-finally-gives-blind-people-an-affordable-homekit-hub/
12) The AT Social Hub: Mobility Magic with NaviBelt and UltraCane! (YouTube Video: August 5th 2021)
The AT Social Hub is back with another exciting session driven by your tech experiences! For our next session, the 2 Stuart's will be taking a look at the NaviBelt by FeelSpace and the UltraCane. The vibrating NaviBelt makes paths and directions tangible. Experience a completely new feeling of space! Simply put on the NaviBelt, enter a destination with the help of your smartphone and you will immediately feel where you are going. True to the motto: Always follow your gut feeling!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6MBUayHvgj4
13) These Smart Lenses Could Help Restore Sight to Visually Impaired Individuals
Californian startup Mojo Vision is working on a novel concept of contact lenses featuring a screen capable of transcribing images in augmented reality. Still at the prototype stage, it could eventually help visually impaired people better understand their environment:https://www.thestar.com.my/tech/tech-news/2021/08/29/these-smart-lenses-could-help-restore-sight-to-visually-impaired-individuals
14) Take Control of Just About Anything with Take Control Books
Take Control books are offered in multiple non-DRM formats including PDF, ePub, and Mobi format which makes it easy to read them on just about any device you choose. Yes, they do not use DRM or copy protection, because, as they put it, "our ebooks do not use copy protection because it makes life harder for everyone. So we ask a favor of our readers. If you want to share your copy of an ebook you've bought with a friend, please do so as you would with a physical book, meaning that if your friend uses it regularly, they should buy a copy":https://www.steves.life/take-control-of-just-about-anything-with-take-control-books/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Blind Video Game Champion Takes on Twitch Audience
With a joystick in one hand, a Braille device under the other and a mask over his eyes, BlindWarriorSven efficiently disposes of yet another opponent. "I put this mask on because sometimes people tell me I'm not really blind," he says with a smile, in reference to the sore losers he has beaten on the video game streaming site Twitch:https://news.yahoo.com/blind-video-game-champion-takes-064651292.html
2) American Foundation for the Blind Announces Llura Gund Workforce Inclusion Fund
New fund will devote resources to career pathways, diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives for jobseekers who are blind or have low vision:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/american-foundation-for-the-blind-announces-llura-gund-workforce-inclusion-fund-301365120.html
3) More Companies Are Looking to Hire Accessibility Specialists
Accessibility jobs, ranging from "head of accessibility" to "accessibility analyst," are increasing at a rapid pace across industries as companies strive to make their products and services more tailored to people with disabilities:https://www.wsj.com/articles/more-companies-are-looking-to-hire-accessibility-specialists-11630501200
4) 3 Ways News Organizations Can Improve Accessibility Right Now
By considering the ways people navigate the digital world differently, news organizations can connect with their audiences in a more compassionate way:https://www.poynter.org/ethics-trust/2021/3-ways-news-organizations-can-improve-accessibility-right-now/
5) Smart Home Technology Enhancements for the Visually Impaired
Smart home technology can provide visually impaired homeowners, in many cases, with more convenience and added safety than a smart home can provide to homeowners that aren't visually impaired. Smart home integrators need to understand the unique needs that visually impaired homeowners have to serve them properly:https://restechtoday.com/smart-home-technology-enhancements-for-the-visually-impaired/
6) Recognise These? Japan's Pavement 'Tenji Blocks' Guide Visually Impaired Worldwide
The tactile paving was invented in Japan more than 50 years ago to help those with visual impairments move safely around urban environments "Tenji Blocks" have since gone global, becoming a familiar sight in cities around the world from London to Sydney:https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/east-asia/article/3147018/recognise-these-japans-pavement-tenji-blocks-guide-visually
7) WSU Researcher Awarded $100K for App That Helps Visually Impaired Read Comics, Graphic Novels
The National Endowment for Humanities has awarded a Wichita State University researcher $100,000 for his work on developing an application that allows visually impaired people to read comic books and graphic novels, the university recently announced in a news release:https://www.bizjournals.com/wichita/news/2021/08/26/wsu-vizling-app-visually-impaired-comics-graphics.html
8) Toyota Halts Use of Self-Driving Vehicle at Paralympic Village After Collision with Visually Impaired Athlete
Toyota has suspended use of all of its self-driving e-Palette transportation pods at the Tokyo Paralympic Games village:https://www.cbc.ca/sports/paralympics/toyota-halts-self-driving-vehicles-use-after-olympic-village-accident-1.6157569
9) HSBC UK Uses New Card Designs in Bid for Greater Accessibility
HSBC UK has announced a new range of redesigned credit and debit cards. The new designs are intended to make banking more accessible to people with dementia, visual impairments, color blindness, learning difficulties and dyslexia:https://tearsheet.co/payments/hsbc-uk-uses-new-card-designs-in-bid-for-greater-accessibility/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther 32: Climbing Mountains Blind One Finger at a Time (Part 2-of-2)
August 20th 2021 | On this, our final episode of season one, Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther celebrates by having Ms Lilly reveal her top five favorite episodes from the past year. We present the second half of our conversation with blind mountain climber Erik Weihenmayer, and Lawrence offers tips and some reflections on experiencing the outdoors. Tune in to AMI Audio for all the fun or download the podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/episode-32-climbing-mountains-blind-one-finger-at-a/id1530444764?i=1000532598924
2) Mosen At Large 145
August 28th 2021 A COVID-19 Ccheck-In, Blind People in the Media, and Flying to Canada Now Takes Extra Effort:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/fa66a9e8/a-covid-19-check-in-blind-people-in-the-media-and-flying-tocanada-now-takes-extra-effort
3) Blind Android Users 38 | Video streaming services, which one is yours?
August 28th 2021 | In this show we talk all about video streaming apps. We demo Youtube app on android and Facebook. We then have an unboxing Party in which we have unboxing and review of Samsung Galaxy Z flip and review of Xperia M1 III. We have the 4th episode in the highlights from talkback. We show you how to read articles when browsing using Google assistant and skip all unwanted adds:http://www.blindandroidusers.com/
4) Eyes on Success 2136 Combining Computer Science with Social Sciences
September 1st 2021Bhavya Shah grew up in India where blind students were often dissuaded from certain studies and careers and where many textbooks could not be obtained in an accessible format. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Bhavya about how he overcame these challenges and now combines his skills in computer science with his interest in social science to contribute to research projects:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202136.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Transitioning to JAWS - A 12-Week Workshop
September 7th 2021 Through November 23rd 2021| 3PM PT, 4PM MT, 5PM CT, 6PM ET, 10PM GMT | JAWS is a paid screen reader widely used in educational, corporate and governmental environments, and it's installed on every PC in the New York Public Library system. Perhaps you already have JAWS but need to brush up your skills, or maybe you're considering whether to purchase the program. If you know how to type, understand Windows basics, can commit to attending twelve sessions, and would like to become more confident and proficient with the JAWS screen reader, this workshop is for you! Please plan to join us each week for a hands-on lesson and discussion. This workshop also includes a group mailing list where you can post your questions and discoveries for other members of your cohort to read and respond. We'll cover the basics of customizing JAWS settings, getting around in Windows 10, working with text, managing files and folders and exploring the web. This workshop will be limited to 25 participants, so please apply to participate soon!https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1JiCsNATySaCS5-HJ8FSLm1169reOGjZzfkl4KegcIN0/viewform?edit_requested=true
2) iBUG Introductory Mac Training Course
September 7th 2021 This 12-week course is free, and you are expected to work, attend and participate. It starts Tuesday, September 7th 2021. Email by August 27th 2021 to see the requirements you have to adhere to, and provide the model or year of your Mac:chanellem.allen@gmail.com 📧️
3) Intro to NVDA: A 12-Week Workshop
September 8th 2021 Through November 24th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | There are several Windows screen readers to choose from. NVDA is an increasingly popular option, created by blind developers and freely available all over the world. Come discover how this free- open-source option compares. If you know how to type, understand Windows basics, can commit to attending twelve sessions, and would like to become more confident and proficient with the NVDA screen reader, this workshop is for you! Please plan to join us each week for a hands-on lesson and discussion. This workshop also includes a group mailing list where you can post your questions and discoveries for other members of your cohort to read and respond. We'll cover the basics of customizing NVDA settings, getting around in Windows 10, working with text, managing files and folders and exploring the web. This workshop will be limited to 25 participants, so please apply to participate soon!https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1nHuFSU_3lHZvWMRTqIrVTjNxjmlWQR1uFMAQR8xOliY/viewform?edit_requested=true
4) Managing Folders, Files, and Drives With a Screen Reader Part 2 - Access Ingenuity
September 8th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity as they explain the File Explorer interface of Windows 10 and provide many examples and tips to manage your folders, files, and drives. Although this is a part 2, attendees would still benefit from this even if they didn't attend part 1. In addition, please feel free to contact us if you would like access to the part 1 recording. Learning Outcomes: Understand folder paths to manage and locate your drives, folders, and files. Discover how to work with the Tree View and List View and how they affect each other. Explore the different ways to access various commands such as select, cut, copy, paste, rename, delete, and more. Meeting ID: 874 6987 8574 | Passcode: 109862 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,87469878574#,,,,*109862# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose):https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87469878574?pwd=YlZ3VmRXS3I3SGl3azlVQUE2L3RRZz09
5) TOPAZ Ultra Training Webinar
September 9th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Are you looking for the functionality of a desktop video magnifier but the flexibility to take it with you from room to room? The TOPAZ Ultra offers the same reading comfort, ease of use, and functionality as a desktop video magnifier — but in a compact and foldable design. Join Mike Wood as he goes over all the features and benefit of TOPAZ Ultra:https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_uTRsGQWPR6mClAKjnsMqMA?utm_campaign=LV_Webinars&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=154104403&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_3_EUR-SSIjtFE7xHAVlg6FrWX1aFxemSW8iSeX8iRXUFlA0y99wHTwR170n8u8O-I8M3LeDIDGUvD0Wkbx2UBmW3jjA&utm_content=154104403&utm_source=hs_email
6) Alexa Games Presentation - Technology User Group
September 11th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | On Saturday, September 11th 2021 The Technology User Group is pleased to present a morning of games with your Alexa device. Whether you are using an Echo Show, Dot, Flex, Fire, phone or computer app, there are hundreds of games available on this operating platform but only 60 minutes to tell you about the top ones. Come and witness the best and worst that the AI world has to offer. You do not have to RSVP for this event. The presentation will last about an hour. This presentation will be virtual and may be joined by calling:(319) 527-4994 📱️
7) ONYX PRO: Next Generation Magnifier / Reader From Freedom Scientific - Access Ingenuity
September 15th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos from Access Ingenuity and special guests Joe McDaniel and Mike Woods from Freedom Scientific as we demonstrate the new ONYX PRO. The ONYX PRO easily connects to Microsoft Surface Pro 7 to magnify text or have text read aloud. Just place your Surface Pro 7 in the ONYX PRO stand, unfold the camera, and attach the camera to the stand and you are ready to go. Featuring a dual-camera design for flexibility, one camera allows you to easily go from near magnification to distance viewing. The second camera is dedicated to Document OCR (optical character recognition) mode that scans printed text and reads it back to you out loud in a clear and natural voice. The ONYX PRO is great for reading books, magazines, mail, and more! Learning Outcomes: Discover how the ONYX PRO takes us to the next level of portable magnifying/reading solutions. Understand the features and capabilities of the ONYX PRO. Explore how the ONYX PRO excels in the classroom, office or at home. Meeting ID: 870 4246 8742 | Passcode: 216057 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,87042468742#,,,,*216057# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87042468742?pwd=UWtrc2dxRDFFZVpVQVVybTBOd3lYUT09
8) Accessing and Customizing Windows 10 Settings With Assistive Technology - Access Ingenuity
September 22nd 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos, Mark Schafer, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity as they explain the Settings App of Windows 10 and provide many examples and tips to better navigate, search, and customize your Windows 10 Settings. Unlike previous versions of Windows, most settings are now customized under the new Settings App of Windows 10. In some cases, changes will not take place unless configured in Settings. For example, even if you agree to make the current browser the default within that browser, it now still needs to be finalized in Settings. Learning Outcomes: Introduce the different ways to open the Settings App. Understand the Settings layout and how to use keyboard commands to best navigate the various options. Discover the different ways to search for specific settings. Explore some popular settings such as setting default apps, Windows Updates, managing devices, and more. Meeting ID: 825 5600 7846 | Passcode: 418662 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,82556007846#,,,,*418662# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose):https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82556007846?pwd=SGU4RG4xN2ZPZG9OQVFwTHM2aGtxZz09
9) Can Everybody See My Screen?
September 22nd 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | After more than a year of adjusting to a remote work environment, we still rely heavily on technology to present and collaborate among teams. However, it's important to remember that different people perceive information, well, differently. And virtual communication is no exception. Join TPGi Accessibility Engineer, Doug Abrams, WAS, to discuss what it means to be inclusive when presenting over video calls. In our introductory webinar, we will discuss some of the challenges people with visual disabilities may encounter when attending a virtual presentation, as well as helpful techniques to make your presentation more accessible. Register today!https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-september-22-can-everybody-see-my-screen/
10) A Closer Look at the New Envision Glasses - Access Ingenuity
September 29th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos, Mark Schafer, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity for a look at the exciting new Envision glasses. The Envision glasses use the cutting edge Google Glasses platform as a way for a visually impaired user to gain access to their environment. They give you the ability to scan text, be it handwritten notes, books or your favorite recipe. Using the built in camera, you can call someone and have them see from your point of view, to help you pick out the perfect outfit or help you navigate a challenging obstacle. Join us to learn more about the additional features these glasses offer and how they differ from other wearable technologies currently on the market. Attendees from previous presentations on the glasses can still benefit from this since new features will be introduced. In addition, there are plans to present some live examples of the call feature for a blind person to get help during this presentation! Learning Outcomes: Convenience of using the Scan Text and Instant Text features. How Scene Description can offer more independence. How the glasses use cutting edge technology to help you do more. Explore new features since our last glasses presentation. Benefits and uses of the Video Call feature. Meeting ID: 856 9427 2978 | Passcode: 248303 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,85694272978#,,,,*248303# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85694272978?pwd=dVFKb3ZYSndnUjBPekhsVm0rQXpQZz09
11) Native Mobile Application Testing
September 30th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | The number of apps for mobile devices is ever-growing. It's important that mobile apps be accessible and inclusive, but it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the thought of incorporating them into your accessibility-evaluation strategy. Join TPGi Accessibility Engineer Laurie Pagano for an introduction to some of the mobile-device settings, assistive technologies, and other tools that you can add to your accessibility-testing toolbox. Set yourself up for success so you can start testing native mobile apps for accessibility conformance today. Register today!https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-september-30-native-mobile-app-testing/
12) 2021 M-Enabling Summit - Promoting Accessible Technologies and Environments
October 4th - 6th 2021 | The M-Enabling Summit Conference and Showcase is dedicated to promoting digital environments and assistive technologies for senior citizens and users of all abilities. It is an annual meeting place for all who implement digital inclusion strategies or develop assistive solutions and accessible digital contents and services for workplaces, learning environments or consumer markets:https://m-enabling.com/
13) Sense-Ability. Using the BrailleSense 6! | Paid Course | Hartgen Consulting
October 6th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6 GMT | While the BrailleSense 6 is a relatively new product, largely due to previous devices offered by its manufacturers it has already established itself as a power house for work and entertainment. Find out how it works in a way which makes Braille Sense!http://hartgen.org/braillesense
14) Accessing Higher Ground Accessible Media, Web and Technology Conference by Association on Higher Education And Disability (AHEAD)
November 15th 2021 Through November 19th 2021 | Presented and hosted by AHEAD, Accessing Higher Ground is conducted in collaboration with ATHEN:https://accessinghigherground.org/
15) 2nd Annual Sight Tech Global 2021
December 1st & 2nd 2021 | 100% free. 100% virtual. Sight Tech Global is the first global, virtual conference dedicated to fostering discussion among technology pioneers on how rapid advances in AI and related technologies will fundamentally alter the landscape of assistive technology and accessibility. Registration is now open:https://sighttechglobal.com/
➜ Surveys
1) Availability Of Healthcare Information To Blind And Visually Impaired Healthcare Users During The COVID Pandemic
Clsoe Date: September 30th 2021 Dear Listers, this is Sushil Oswal from the University of Washington. I am the principal investigator on a survey about the availability of healthcare information to blind and low-vision consumers during the past 18 months. This is an important survey for our blindness community because it will give us an opportunity to express our experiences of finding healthcare information during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please give us as much of your personal experiences as you can so that our study could create a comprehensive picture of the healthcare information barriers blind people face particularly under pandemic conditions. We will do a small draw of ten $25 gift cards for this survey. Besides publishing in academic journals, we will be producing a report on the basis of this healthcare information survey which will be shared with as many local and state-level health departments as possible. This report will also be available to blindness community at large. To complete the survey, please click the link below. If you have any questions about the survey, or you have difficulty completing the survey, please email me at oswal@u.washington.edu 📧️. Our human subjects approval includes a permission to conduct this survey over the phone if necessary. So, do not hesitate to email me privately if you face computer issues while completing this survey. My co-investigator and I will maintain your privacy in all possible circumstances:https://uwt.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_d4FBAWsGQwBwtOC
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Focus 14 Braille Display
Listing Date: 8/19/2021 | Price: $850.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: This Braille display was only used during a couple of training sessions. Carrying case and all adaptors/charger included. | Contact: Email jflower418@gmail.com 📧️ or call Jane at (415) 858-8436 📱️. |2) FOR SALE: Mathcaster for Amazon Alexa. Just Say "Alexa, Open Mathcaster"
Listing Date: 8/19/2021 | Price: $1.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Mathcaster is suitable for ages between 8-12 and is free to play. This Alexa Skill is a perfect resource to help children improve and develop their math skills. Learn more at: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B094NDXMKF?ref&ref=cm_sw_tw_r_as_dp_KypaG8Iu9kJBy. | Contact: Email nicksawka@wanderword.net 📧️ or call Nicholas at (724) 466-2087 📱️. |3) FOR SALE: Escape from 63rd & Wallace. Just say "Alexa, Open Escape 63rd"
Listing Date: 8/19/2021 | Price: $4.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Escape from 63rd is an horror audio adventure that takes the listener on a journey to Chicago in 1893, following Charlene, a young woman searching for her sister. Learn more at: https://poptale.com/releases/escape-from-63rd-and-wallace/. | Contact: Email nicksawka@wanderword.net 📧️ or call Nicholas at (724) 466-2087 📱️. |4) FOR SALE: The Cursed Painting Audio RPG. Just say "Alexa, open the Cursed Painting"
Listing Date: 8/19/2021 | Price: $1.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Explore ancient ruins in order to uncover the secret of the Cursed Painting, and stop the undead curse plaguing the kingdom in this Interactive Fantasy Adventure Game, inspired by classic tabletop RPG's. Learn more at: https://poptale.com/releases/the-cursed-painting/. | Contact: Email nicksawka@wanderword.net 📧️ or call Nicholas at (724) 466-2087 📱️. |5) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions
➜ 3 Easy Steps To Accessible Shared Content For Your Remote Presentations: Rid Digital Darkness For Blind Attendee's Forever!
https://scribeformeetings.com/
Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ VisionAware Resources Including the Directory of Services
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/090220211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ Accessible Pharmacy Joins Be My Eyes
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Build A Foundational Understanding Of Construction And Electronics With BRIC: Structures® Access Kit From APH - An Adapted Version Of An Educational Elenco® Product For Students Who Are Blind And Visually Impaired!
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ GuideLights And Gadgets: August Specials
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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 Martineau
➜ Voice Training
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: Carroll Center for the Blind
➜ Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
https://carroll.org/screen-reader-user-tester-training-program/
Sponsor Since: August 5th 2021
Website: https://carroll.org/ 🌐
Phone: (617) 969-6200 📱️
Fax: (617) 969-6204 ░Shop: https://carroll.org/store/ 🛒
Donate: https://carroll.org/donate ❤
Social: Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | LinkedIn | Instagram
About: The Carroll Center for the Blind is the foremost leader in vision rehabilitation services for individuals confronted by the challenges of vision loss. Our mission is to empower those who are blind or visually impaired to achieve independence and to lead a fulfilling life. Established in 1936, the renowned Carroll Center for the Blind has been serving those with vision impairment for over eight decades; we are known nationally as a premier Vision Rehabilitation Center. Located just outside of Boston on a sprawling campus in Newton, Massachusetts, we proudly serve ALL ages and ALL stages of vision loss. With the ongoing promise of improving the lives of people with vision-related problems, The Carroll Center for the Blind has pioneered many innovative services allowing people who are blind or have low vision to learn the skills to be independent in their homes, in class settings, and in their work places. Our services include vision rehabilitation, vocational and transition programs, assistive technology training, educational support, and recreation opportunities for individuals who are visually impaired of all ages. For over 80 years, the expertise of Carroll Center staff has provided help for thousands of blind and visually impaired persons with diverse opportunities for success and independent living.
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, August 26, 2021 - Volume 821 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, August 26, 2021 - Volume 821
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
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Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: One Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Package Available! Please Join Us In Supporting The Ongoing Distribution of this Publication. Join These 11 Industry Leaders and Begin Reaching Over 6,700 Assistive Technology Professionals, Educators and Enthusiasts Each Week!
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Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Windows Update Breaks Alt+Tab: (16.2% of all clicks.)https://www.windowslatest.com/2021/08/17/windows-10-kb5005033-is-causing-new-issues-for-some-users/
B.) What Is Google's Auditorial Experiment?: (8.1% of all clicks.)
https://www.makeuseof.com/what-is-auditorial/
C.) Social Media Accessibility Tips & Tricks: Facebook: (6.5% of all clicks.)
https://abilitytools.org/blog/social-media-accessibility-tips-tricks-facebook/
D.) How to Get AR Walking Directions in iOS 15: (5.9% of all clicks.)
https://coolblindtech.com/how-to-get-ar-walking-directions-in-ios-15/
E.) New Website Resource "Screenless Allies": (5.4% of all clicks.)
https://screenlessallies.com/
2) Top Tech Tidbits "Most Clicked Tidbit" Weekly Contest | $250 USD Annual Cash Prize | Week #34 of 52
Number of Votes Last Week: 12 | Number of Winners Last Week: 2 | Winner Names: Kota Prabhu and Kate Crohan | Current Overall Winners: Maya, Kota Prabhu and Kate Crohan with 2 of 52 points each. | Current 2nd Place Winners: 16 Players with 1 of 52 points each. | How well do you know adaptive technology? Do you think that you could consistently identify adaptive technology trends if given the opportunity? Well here's your chance. You can now cast your vote each week for the one Tidbit that you believe will receive the most clicks. Get it right more than anyone else each week and you win a $250.00 USD cash prize at the end of the year (December 31st 2021). In addition, there may be opportunities for winners to join our editorial team. The premise is simple and voting is easy. Can you pick the one Tidbit out of each issue that will get the most clicks? If you think you can, or at least would like to try, learn everything there is to know about the contest here and start casting your vote today:Learn More:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/36.html
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Leaderboard: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/premium-subscribers.html
3) One Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Package Currrently Available
Please join us in supporting the ongoing distribution of this publication. Join 11 other industry leaders and begin reaching over 6,700 assistive technology professionals, educators and enthusiasts each week. All while enjoying some really incredible marketing benefits. If this sounds like you, please reach out to our publisher today at: publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️. Or learn more at:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
4) Top Tech Tidbits Senior Editor Dean Martineau Transitions To Guest Contributor
With a little trepidation and a lot of gratitude, I'm announcing that Issue 821 will be the last issue of Tidbits for which I'll be providing content as Senior Editor. Fear not, though, Tidbits will continue, and just keep getting better. When I launched top Tech Tidbits some sixteen and a half years ago...https://www.toptechtidbits.com/37.html
5) Good Maps Indoor Navigation Video Demo
Traveling the unknown back corridors of the American Printing House building:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hw4l8CxLv5Q
6) A Letter to Apple About the Flicktype Situation
Many blind iPhone users benefited from this app, which Apple has essentially killed. Here's one letter about the situation:https://davidgoldfield.wordpress.com/2021/08/22/my-email-to-phil-schiller-at-apple-regarding-the-current-situation-with-flicktype/
7) Mosen At Large Episode 144, Flicktype Details, Using Braille Screen Input, More
Another thorough and detailed treatment of a controvertial topic. This is the Transcript:https://mosen.org/malp0144transcript/
8) Typing on iPhone and Rotor
While we're on the subject of typing, this AppleVis Forum covers lots of options:https://www.applevis.com/forum/ios-ipados/typing-iphone-and-rotor
9) Reading Recipes with Siri or Apple Watch
This explanation goes into some good detail, to make the reading of recipes or other text really viable on phone or watch:https://www.jantrid.net/2021/08/24/reading-recipes-with-siri-or-apple-watch/
10) Resources for Whenever Accessibility Goes Belly up
The most comprehensive list I've seen of accessibility assistance numbers from companies that provide such numbers:https://webfriendlyhelp.com/resources-for-whenever-accessibility-goes-belly-up/
11) Android Commands and Settings, Android S (12)
A handy compendium, downloadable or on paper. It costs $12 or $14.50 depending on format:https://www.nbp.org/ic/nbp/AND-COMMAND-2ED.html
12) Commmand Palette NVDA Add-on
This is an intriguing add-on, allowing you to type part of a command to execute it rather than using a keystroke:https://github.com/blindpandas/command_palette/releases/tag/v1.0
13) How to Search in Windows
Clear explanations for Windows 10 and 11, from Make Tech Easier:https://www.maketecheasier.com/how-to-search-in-windows/
14) Step by Step Screen Reader Navigation of the Parts of the Menu Ribbon | Blind Accessibility Tips YouTube Channel
The updating of Microsoft's menu bar to a menu ribbon saw some blind and visually impaired persons struggling to use it. This tutorial is meant to help these people learn how to navigate the menu ribbon with their screen reader, primarily in the Microsoft Word window, but also in the File Explorer window where the menu ribbon is also displayed:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kA6G1CkN9d8&t=202s
15) Think You Know ALL Windows 10 Keyboard Shortcuts? Find Out in Our Full List
It can be overwhelming to memorize all the keyboard shortcuts. However, you do not need to learn every shortcut available on Windows 10. You only need to focus on those you need more frequently to make your life a little easier and improve productivity:https://www.windowscentral.com/best-windows-10-keyboard-shortcuts
16) 5 Often Overlooked Videogame Accessibility Features
Very useful options that are too often left out of games:https://www.pcgamer.com/5-often-overlooked-videogame-accessibility-features/
17) Why Twitter's New Design Is Inaccessible to Some Disabled People
Twitter has launched a new design for its app and website, including its own font, higher contrast, and less gray space. The update was intended to increase accessibility, but many disabled users and accessibility experts disagree, pointing out that some of the changes have made the site less accessible. Twitter has responded to the concerns with promises to fix some of the key issues:https://www.verywellhealth.com/twitter-new-accessible-redesign-5197808
18) What's Next for Xbox Accessibility Tech? Microsoft Isn't Sure
The Xbox Adaptive Controller meets many people's accessibility needs, and it's hard to design a follow-up act:https://www.windowscentral.com/whats-next-xbox-accessibility-tech-microsoft-isnt-sure
19) Xbox Adaptive Controller Inventor Says Gaming Accessibility Has Hit "A Plateau"
Accessibility in video games has thankfully improved greatly in recent years, with developers and hardware manufacturers increasingly offering players with disabilities options ranging from colour-blind modes to modifiable inputs. However, a key figure in the creation of the Xbox Adaptive Controller, a bespoke and customisable controller to allow better physical access, has said efforts to further expand access have hit "a bit of a plateau":https://www.nme.com/news/gaming-news/xbox-adaptive-controller-inventor-says-gaming-accessibility-has-hit-a-plateau-3027532
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Canadian Geographic Announces the Largest Accessibility Project in North America
Congratulations are in order for Ashley Nemeth, motivational speaker, writer, and blogger for her feature in Canadian Geographic's magazine issue announcing the largest accessibility project in North America. In this article, Ashley shares her experience as an individual who is totally blind navigating through Wascana Park, Regina, and the enrichment that the BlindSquare app now offers to this experience:https://www.blindsquare.com/2021/08/24/canadian-geographic-announces-the-largest-accessibility-project-in-north-america/
2) EA Opens Some of its Most Important Accessibility Patents
EA has announced that it is now offering its accessibility patents to anyone who wants to use them. Is about a paradigm shift for the video game industry, by allowing anyone to access accessibility tools, even your competitors:https://www.cvbj.biz/2021/08/24/ea-opens-some-of-its-most-important-accessibility-patents/
3) Disabled Couple 'Full Of Rage' After Being 'Asked To Leave Theme Park Due To Guide Dog'
Outraged Paul and Kaylie Newbury, from Essex, claim they were approached about their Labrador by security at the theme park - who said dogs are supposed to wear muzzles:https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/disabled-couple-full-rage-after-24830320
4) Paralympics: Who is the World's Fastest Blind Athlete?
David Brown lost sight at 13 but discovered sprinting talent at high school:https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/olympics/paralympics/paralympics-tokyo-blind-sprinter-brown-b1907558.html
5) Friendship Between Visually Impaired Girl and Her Bus Driver Goes Viral on TikTok
A North Texas fourth grader and her bus driver are new buddies thanks to her determination and his kindness:https://www.fox4news.com/news/friendship-between-visually-impared-girl-and-her-bus-driver-goes-viral-on-tik-tok
6) Handhelds Still Aren't Designed for Disabled Gamers
Valve's new Steam Deck looks fantastic — but for players with vision or dexterity difficulties, it's just more of the same challenges:https://www.wired.com/story/valve-steam-deck-handhelds-not-designed-disabled-gamers/
7) New Windows 10 Update Breaks One of Its Most Useful Features for Some Users — What's Going On?
Some people who have downloaded the July 2021 preview (KB5004296) and the August 2021 update (KB5005033) are unable to use the Alt-Tab feature properly:https://www.techradar.com/news/new-windows-10-update-breaks-one-of-its-most-useful-features-for-some-users-whats-going-on
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Behind the Scenes of Hadley's Adjusting to Vision Loss Series
August 20th 2021 | Doug Walker, Hadley co-director of R&D, and Ed Haines, Hadley Chief Program Officer, chat about the making of Hadley's "Adjusting to Vision Loss" workshop series. The series guides people through the emotional aspects of vision loss. Doug serves as the series' personal storyteller and narrator:https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/behind-scenes-hadleys-adjusting-vision-loss-series
2) Blind Android Users 37 | Life's Hit When You Stay Fit
August 21st 2021 | Listeners can now register on our website and post Android-related guides. We gave our thoughts about Pixel 5A & Sony Xperia 1. We discuss about all thing's health on this show, the following apps were discussed Medi safe Pill Reminder, Medication Tracker, Mango Health & My Therapy, there is also Tab Time Vibrating Pill Box & Med Minder. We demo, my diary mood tracking app, Google Fit, Freestyle Libre app For the diabetics, Mobvoi app for tick watch users. We have the next episode of Commentary screen reader:http://www.blindandroidusers.com/
3) Mosen At Large 144
August 21st 2021 FlickType has gone and Apple is to blame, how to use Braille Screen input, more on alternative iOS calendar apps:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/dcdd9e6a/flicktype-has-gone-and-apple-is-to-blame-how-to-use-braille-screen-input-more-on-alternative-ios-calendar-apps
4) Eyes on Success 2135 Getting Around as an Entrepreneur
August 25th 2021Fernando Albertorio is a blind chemist turned entrepreneur and philanthropist. He is also a co-founder of the Sunu Band, a device worn on the wrist to provide tactile navigation cues to the blind. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Fernando about his journey, philosophy, and how his drive and motivation have opened up opportunities for him:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202135.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) FSOpenLine
August 26th 2021 | 2PM PT, 3PM MT, 4PM CT, 5PM ET, 9PM GMT | FSOpenLine, Freedom Scientific's global call-in show, will take place Thursday, August 26th at 5:00 PM Eastern time with a sneak peek into Fusion Suite 2022. Do you have questions about our products or an idea you'd like to share? Join us and have your voice heard by key members of Freedom Scientific's product management and engineering teams. During the May FSOpenLine, we discussed keystrokes for navigating Outlook messages in email threads with JAWS and Fusion, told you about the Quick Access Bar in ZoomText and Fusion, and answered your questions:https://blog.freedomscientific.com/join-us-for-fsopenline-6/2) Enabling an Accessible SDLC - People, Process and Technologies | TPGi
August 31st 2021 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Join TPGi's Chase Aucoin, Chief Architect, and Mark Miller, Director, Emerging Accounts & Platform. In this session, we'll discuss how DevOps can play a crucial role in ensuring your products are accessible to all users. We will also review some hands-on examples of how TPGi makes collaboration on the accessibility process easy for software engineers, product managers and DevOps professionals so they can make any product accessible:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-august-31-enabling-an-accessible-sdlc-people-process-and-technologies/
3) iBUG Introductory Mac Training Course
September 7th 2021 This 12-week course is free, and you are expected to work, attend and participate. It starts Tuesday, September 7th 2021. Email by August 27th 2021 to see the requirements you have to adhere to, and provide the model or year of your Mac:chanellem.allen@gmail.com 📧️
4) Can Everybody See My Screen?
September 22nd 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | After more than a year of adjusting to a remote work environment, we still rely heavily on technology to present and collaborate among teams. However, it's important to remember that different people perceive information, well, differently. And virtual communication is no exception. Join TPGi Accessibility Engineer, Doug Abrams, WAS, to discuss what it means to be inclusive when presenting over video calls. In our introductory webinar, we will discuss some of the challenges people with visual disabilities may encounter when attending a virtual presentation, as well as helpful techniques to make your presentation more accessible. Register today!https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-september-22-can-everybody-see-my-screen/
5) Native Mobile Application Testing
September 30th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | The number of apps for mobile devices is ever-growing. It's important that mobile apps be accessible and inclusive, but it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the thought of incorporating them into your accessibility-evaluation strategy. Join TPGi Accessibility Engineer Laurie Pagano for an introduction to some of the mobile-device settings, assistive technologies, and other tools that you can add to your accessibility-testing toolbox. Set yourself up for success so you can start testing native mobile apps for accessibility conformance today. Register today!https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-september-30-native-mobile-app-testing/
6) 2021 M-Enabling Summit - Promoting Accessible Technologies and Environments
October 4th - 6th 2021 | The M-Enabling Summit Conference and Showcase is dedicated to promoting digital environments and assistive technologies for senior citizens and users of all abilities. It is an annual meeting place for all who implement digital inclusion strategies or develop assistive solutions and accessible digital contents and services for workplaces, learning environments or consumer markets:https://m-enabling.com/
7) Sense-Ability. Using the BrailleSense 6! | Paid Course | Hartgen Consulting
October 6th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6 GMT | While the BrailleSense 6 is a relatively new product, largely due to previous devices offered by its manufacturers it has already established itself as a power house for work and entertainment. Find out how it works in a way which makes Braille Sense!http://hartgen.org/braillesense
8) Accessing Higher Ground Accessible Media, Web and Technology Conference by Association on Higher Education And Disability (AHEAD)
November 15th - 19th 2021 | Presented and hosted by AHEAD, Accessing Higher Ground is conducted in collaboration with ATHEN:https://accessinghigherground.org/
9) 2nd Annual Sight Tech Global 2021
December 1st & 2nd 2021 | 100% free. 100% virtual. Sight Tech Global is the first global, virtual conference dedicated to fostering discussion among technology pioneers on how rapid advances in AI and related technologies will fundamentally alter the landscape of assistive technology and accessibility. Registration is now open:https://sighttechglobal.com/
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Focus 14 Braille Display
Listing Date: 8/19/2021 | Price: $850.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: This Braille display was only used during a couple of training sessions. Carrying case and all adaptors/charger included. | Contact: Email jflower418@gmail.com 📧️ or call Jane at (415) 858-8436 📱️. |2) FOR SALE: Mathcaster for Amazon Alexa. Just Say "Alexa, Open Mathcaster"
Listing Date: 8/19/2021 | Price: $1.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Mathcaster is suitable for ages between 8-12 and is free to play. This Alexa Skill is a perfect resource to help children improve and develop their math skills. Learn more at: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B094NDXMKF?ref&ref=cm_sw_tw_r_as_dp_KypaG8Iu9kJBy. | Contact: Email nicksawka@wanderword.net 📧️ or call Nicholas at (724) 466-2087 📱️. |3) FOR SALE: Escape from 63rd & Wallace. Just say "Alexa, Open Escape 63rd"
Listing Date: 8/19/2021 | Price: $4.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Escape from 63rd is an horror audio adventure that takes the listener on a journey to Chicago in 1893, following Charlene, a young woman searching for her sister. Learn more at: https://poptale.com/releases/escape-from-63rd-and-wallace/. | Contact: Email nicksawka@wanderword.net 📧️ or call Nicholas at (724) 466-2087 📱️. |4) FOR SALE: The Cursed Painting Audio RPG. Just say "Alexa, open the Cursed Painting"
Listing Date: 8/19/2021 | Price: $1.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Explore ancient ruins in order to uncover the secret of the Cursed Painting, and stop the undead curse plaguing the kingdom in this Interactive Fantasy Adventure Game, inspired by classic tabletop RPG's. Learn more at: https://poptale.com/releases/the-cursed-painting/. | Contact: Email nicksawka@wanderword.net 📧️ or call Nicholas at (724) 466-2087 📱️. |5) FOR SALE: One BrailleSense Polaris Mini
Listing Date: 8/5/2021 | Price: $2,000.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: This 20-cell Android notetaker is in mint condition and needs a new forever home. Has new mother board, all original packaging, accessories and documentation including braille quick start guide along with an Executive Products case. | Contact: Email dave@speedyturtle.net 📧️ or call Dave at (918) 527-0688 📱️. |2) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
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Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ VisionAware Resources Including the Directory of Services
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/082620211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ Accessible Pharmacy Joins Be My Eyes
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Build A Foundational Understanding Of Construction And Electronics With BRIC: Structures® Access Kit From APH - An Adapted Version Of An Educational Elenco® Product For Students Who Are Blind And Visually Impaired!
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ GuideLights And Gadgets: August Specials
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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 Martineau
➜ Voice Training
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: Carroll Center for the Blind
➜ Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
https://carroll.org/screen-reader-user-tester-training-program/
Sponsor Since: August 5th 2021
Website: https://carroll.org/ 🌐
Phone: (617) 969-6200 📱️
Fax: (617) 969-6204 ░Shop: https://carroll.org/store/ 🛒
Donate: https://carroll.org/donate ❤
Social: Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | LinkedIn | Instagram
About: The Carroll Center for the Blind is the foremost leader in vision rehabilitation services for individuals confronted by the challenges of vision loss. Our mission is to empower those who are blind or visually impaired to achieve independence and to lead a fulfilling life. Established in 1936, the renowned Carroll Center for the Blind has been serving those with vision impairment for over eight decades; we are known nationally as a premier Vision Rehabilitation Center. Located just outside of Boston on a sprawling campus in Newton, Massachusetts, we proudly serve ALL ages and ALL stages of vision loss. With the ongoing promise of improving the lives of people with vision-related problems, The Carroll Center for the Blind has pioneered many innovative services allowing people who are blind or have low vision to learn the skills to be independent in their homes, in class settings, and in their work places. Our services include vision rehabilitation, vocational and transition programs, assistive technology training, educational support, and recreation opportunities for individuals who are visually impaired of all ages. For over 80 years, the expertise of Carroll Center staff has provided help for thousands of blind and visually impaired persons with diverse opportunities for success and independent living.
Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions
➜ 3 Easy Steps To Accessible Shared Content For Your Remote Presentations: Rid Digital Darkness For Blind Attendee's Forever!
https://scribeformeetings.com/
Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
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|
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, August 19, 2021 - Volume 820 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, August 19, 2021 - Volume 820
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: One Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Package Available! Please Join Us In Supporting The Ongoing Distribution of this Publication. Join These 11 Industry Leaders and Begin Reaching Over 6,700 Assistive Technology Professionals, Educators and Enthusiasts Each Week!
You can secure our last available package today for just $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 support the ongoing distribution of this publication. Consider showing your support for the world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology, while enjoying some really incredible marketing benefits:
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Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Why Siri, Alexa, & Every Other AI Voice Has Been Feminine: (5.8% of all clicks.)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gBlPxpaum6U
B.) How I Think Smart Watches Are Way More Useful Than You May Think: (5.6% of all clicks.)
https://accessibility-insights.com/2016/11/01/how-i-think-watches-are-way-more-useful-than-many-think/
C.) How To Access Images Without Alt Text | Recognizing Images With Seeing AI: (XX% of all clicks.)
https://veroniiiica.com/2021/08/02/how-to-access-images-without-alt-text/
D.) Use JAWS Find in Word and Outlook: (4.9% of all clicks.)
http://www.hartgen.org/tips
E.) An Overview of Microsoft OneNote for Windows 10: (3.4% of all clicks.)
https://www.blindbargains.com/bargains.php?m=22112
2) Top Tech Tidbits "Most Clicked Tidbit" Weekly Contest | $250 USD Annual Cash Prize | Week #33 of 52
Number of Votes Last Week: 13 | Number of Winners Last Week: 1 | Winner Names: Paul Ferrara | Current Overall Winner: Maya with 2 of 52 points. | Current 2nd Place Winners: 16 Players with 1 of 52 points each. | How well do you know adaptive technology? Do you think that you could consistently identify adaptive technology trends if given the opportunity? Well here's your chance. You can now cast your vote each week for the one Tidbit that you believe will receive the most clicks. Get it right more than anyone else each week and you win a $250.00 USD cash prize at the end of the year (December 31st 2021). In addition, there may be opportunities for winners to join our editorial team. The premise is simple and voting is easy. Can you pick the one Tidbit out of each issue that will get the most clicks? If you think you can, or at least would like to try, learn everything there is to know about the contest here and start casting your vote today:Learn More:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/36.html
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3) One Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Package Currrently Available
Please join us in supporting the ongoing distribution of this publication. Join 11 other industry leaders and begin reaching over 6,700 assistive technology professionals, educators and enthusiasts each week. All while enjoying some really incredible marketing benefits. If this sounds like you, please reach out to our publisher today at: publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️. Or learn more at:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
4) Chromebook Accessibility Part 2: Browsing with Chromevox | Nimer Tech and Outdoor Adventures YouTube Channel
Nimer demonstrates web browsing with Chromevox screen readers, and makes comparisons to other screen readers on the market. Happy Chinese Valentine's Day, and happy birthday to my friend Robert from Zimbabwe:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5c_A3iR6WK0
5) What Is Google's Auditorial Experiment?
Auditorial is an experiment in storytelling that's redesigning the internet for those with visual disabilities. Here's everything you need to know:https://www.makeuseof.com/what-is-auditorial/
6) Social Media Accessibility Tips & Tricks: Facebook
Whether sharing a new photo, commenting on current affairs, uploading a funny video, or promoting your business's newest venture, social media remains relevant because people want to make connections. However, these connections aren't always possible if social media platforms aren't accessible. The Where It's AT Blog team has put together some of the latest accessibility features social media platforms have been producing to make their communities more accessible to all. Using these Facebook accessibility tips and tricks, you can feel confident in your ability to connect with your community:https://abilitytools.org/blog/social-media-accessibility-tips-tricks-facebook/
7) FlickType Discontinuing Its iPhone Keyboard App Due to App Store Hurdles
FlickType has announced it's discontinuing its iPhone keyboard app for blind users after Apple didn't approve its latest update and failed to reply back to the developer:https://9to5mac.com/2021/08/16/flicktype-discontinuing-iphone-keyboard-app-due-to-app-store-hurdles/
8) How to Get AR Walking Directions in iOS 15
In iOS 15, Apple's Maps app benefits from a range of new features and improvements, including the ability to use augmented reality walking directions in big cities:https://coolblindtech.com/how-to-get-ar-walking-directions-in-ios-15/
9) Freedom Scientific Announces ONYX® PRO
Freedom Scientific announces its newest member of the ONYX® Family of products. The ONYX PRO is a camera system with OCR and is designed to be used with the Microsoft® Surface Pro 7 (Microsoft Surface Pro 7 not included). It features a dual camera design for flexibility, one camera allows you to easily go from near magnification to distance viewing. The other camera is dedicated to OCR (Optical Character Recognition) mode that scans printed text and reads it back to you in a clear and natural voice:https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/lowvision/onyx-pro/
10) New Website Resource "Screenless Allies"
This reader writes in to tell us, "This website aims to bring articles on many kinds of how-to's on things like assistive technology and basic life skills for the blind. These are all written from a blindness perspective. Think of this as the "How-to-Geek" for the blind, due to the variety and style of articles we have. I, Jose, and another friend of mine are the two runners of this website. I also have a podcast named "Teachavision," where we cover the teaching aspect of blindness. That is, I talk to teachers of the visually impaired, and plan to branch out to other disabilities in the future. Please feel free to reply with any questions you may have, and I'll be happy to answer them. Sincerely, Jose Briseno. Check out the site at:https://screenlessallies.com/
11) Word Advanced Find - All The Special Codes
Word's Advanced Find has many special codes to help locate or replace hidden or unusual things in a Word document. Here's a complete and searchable list of all the ^ codes and what they are for:https://office-watch.com/2021/word-advanced-find-all-the-special-codes/
12) Netflix Now Rolling Out Spatial Audio Support on iPhone and iPad
This is a boon for Airpods Pro and Airpods Max users:https://9to5mac.com/2021/08/18/netflix-spatial-audio-support-roll-out/
13) Braille Screen Input, Any pointers?
A good compendium of knowledge about this valuable iOS feature in this forum post:https://www.applevis.com/forum/braille-apple-products/braille-screen-input-any-pointers
14) Windows Update Breaks Alt+Tab
Alt+Tab isn't the best way to switch among open programs, but it is the most commmonly used among blind users, and this update has broken it. Fortunately, the fix isn't too difficult:https://www.windowslatest.com/2021/08/17/windows-10-kb5005033-is-causing-new-issues-for-some-users/
15) Parallel #57: Web Accessibility Testing on Mobile
How to use mobile tools to test the accessibility of Websites in iOS:https://www.relay.fm/parallel/57
16) Microsoft Edge Gets a New Accessibility Page in Settings
The Accessibility section in Microsoft Edge Canary lets you adjust the page zoom, enable or disable mini menus, turn on navigation with the keyboard, find a link to accessibility settings in Windows, etc. As it often happens, Microsoft uses the new section to promote its own services; for example, some users report seeing prompts to set Bing as the default search engine:https://winaero.com/microsoft-edge-gets-a-new-accessibility-page-in-settings/
17) Thunderbird 91 Released
A new version of the popular Thunderbird app is available for download. The open source mail and RSS reader has reached version 91, aligning the release number to Firefox. The new version comes with a bunch of changes. There are an Improved Set-Up Wizard, Better Calendar Support, and multi-process implementation that could result in performance improvements:https://www.thunderbird.net/en-US/
18) Google Testing Accessibility Feature That Will Allow Disabled Users To Control Android Phone Features With Smiles, Raised Eyebrows And Other Facial Gestures
Google is testing a new accessibility feature on Android phones that allows users to control functions by using facial gestures instead of touching its screen:https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-9898219/Google-testing-accessibility-feature-let-Android-users-control-features-smile.html
19) Are Your Emojis Accessible?
Did you know that Emoticons are not Emojis? And that you should avoid emoticons, whenever possible? When a screen reader encounters an emoticon, it has difficulty understanding and conveying the meaning behind the series of text characters. Rather, use emojis, as when a screen reader encounters an emoji, it reads the assigned meaning of the emoji to the person using the screen reader:https://at3centerblog.com/2021/08/04/are-your-emojis-accessible/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Augmented Reality Is Coming for Your Ears, Too
New software applications are cleverly mapping audio to transport users to another space:https://www.wired.com/story/augmented-reality-already-arrived-in-our-ears/
2) Pioneering Program for Visually Impaired Babies Turns 40
When it comes to working with visually impaired infants and their parents, few are as experienced, skillful and knowledgeable as Elizabeth Dennison:https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/utah/articles/2021-08-15/pioneering-program-for-visually-impaired-babies-turns-40
3) California Attorney General Issues Consumer Alert on Hearing Aids Sold Online or Over-the-Counter
California Attorney General Rob Bonta has issued a consumer alert warning Californians to exercise caution when purchasing direct-to-consumer hearing products, such as hearing aids, over-the-counter or online:https://hearinghealthmatters.org/hearingnewswatch/2021/consumer-warning-otc-hearing-aids-california/
4) Bose Launches Direct to Consumer Hearing Aids Nationwide
Bose announced this week that it is expanding availability of its SoundControlTM hearing aids across the United States. Until now, the devices had only been available to residents in a limited number of states: Massachusetts, Montana, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Texas. The devices will come with a 90-day, risk-free trial, dedicated product support, and will be sold directly from Bose for $849.95 a pair:https://hearinghealthmatters.org/hearingnewswatch/2021/bose-launches-hearing-aids-nationally/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther Episode 31: Climbing Mountains Blind One Finger at a Time (Part 1 of 2)
August 6th 2021 | Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther is pleased to have Erik Weihenmayer as our featured guest. In the first of this two-part interview, Erik shares with us the many challenges he's experienced in his pursuit of summitting the tallest mountains in the world blind. His strategies and use of basic technologies provide valuable lessons that can be applied in most any challenging situation. So strap on your cleats and let's learn what it takes to climb Everest one finger at a time:https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/episode-31-climbing-mountains-blind-one-finger-at-a/id1530444764?i=1000531221950
2) Blind Android Users 36 | Getting To Your Destination with a GPS App and SunuBand to Help Detect Obstacles
August 14th 2021 | In this episode we talk about, Samsung Unpack 2021 event, our thoughts. What is new in Android 12 Beta 4. In the must have apps segment we talk about our used GPS apps. For spotlight segment we have interview with CEO of Sunu. For app of the week, we demo Audible Vision OCR app. In our talkback tip of the week, we explore talkback on a device with multi finger gesture support vs on a device without multi finger gesture support:https://tinyurl.com/hcwjpa5w
3) Mosen At Large 143
August 14th 2021 Thoughts on what it means to be blind, calendar apps for iPhone and has Apple lost its moral authority on privacy?:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/a6ab4eef/thoughts-on-what-it-means-to-be-blind-calendar-apps-for-iphone-and-has-apple-lost-its-moral-authority-on-privacy-
4) Eyes on Success 2134 Navigating Indoors with the Clew App
August 18th 2021Most navigation apps rely on GPS and work well outdoors. Unfortunately, such apps are not suitable for indoor use. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Paul Ruvolo about the Clew app he developed which overcomes this limitation by making use of Apple's AR Kit and the phone's camera in order to guide users from point to point indoors:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202134.htm
5) That Real Blind Tech Show 48 | Getting To Know Underdog Fantasy and Best BallIt's the Rage With All the Kids These Days
August 18th 2021Demo Month continues as Brian walks you through another fully accessible Fantasy Football game. This time he is doing a demo of the fantastic fully new accessible Underdog Fantasy. Underdog Fantasy offers Best Ball contests along with weekly one day daily contests where you can draft a new team each week:
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-48-getting-to-know-underdog-fantasy-and-best-ballits-the-rage-with-all-the-kids-these-days
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Updated Braille Blaster from APH
August 20th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Register here:https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_nLoRNn-WSR-6pgDgGhhuVQ
2) Tech for Teens Club: LEGO Stop-Motion Videos from PACER
August 21st 2021 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, XXX GMT | Using just a mobile phone and LEGO brand toys, we'll be learning how to create stop-motion style videos that you can share with your family and friends. Learn the techniques to create smooth animation using the Stop Motion Studio app (iPhone & Android). Then create your own stories and bring your characters to life!https://www.pacer.org/workshops/
3) Speech recognition for communication impairments from CallScotland
August 25th 2021 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Project Euphonia is a Google Research initiative focused on helping people with atypical speech be better understood. The approach is centred on analysing speech recordings to better train speech recognition models. The aim is for people living with dysarthria or other speech difficulties to be better understood by speech recognition technology such as Google Assistant. In this webinar, Richard will discuss the Euphonia project and how people living with speech impairment can participate. With the forecast being that by 2024, there will be more devices that can interact with voice than the global population, it is vitally important that everyone is included in the development of the technology behind speech recognition:https://www.callscotland.org.uk/professional-learning/webinars/WEB194/
4) iBUG Introductory Mac Training Course
September 7th 2021 This 12-week course is free, and you are expected to work, attend and participate. It starts Tuesday, September 7th 2021. Email by August 27th 2021 to see the requirements you have to adhere to, and provide the model or year of your Mac:chanellem.allen@gmail.com 📧️
5) 2021 M-Enabling Summit - Promoting Accessible Technologies and Environments
October 4th - 6th 2021 | The M-Enabling Summit Conference and Showcase is dedicated to promoting digital environments and assistive technologies for senior citizens and users of all abilities. It is an annual meeting place for all who implement digital inclusion strategies or develop assistive solutions and accessible digital contents and services for workplaces, learning environments or consumer markets:https://m-enabling.com/
6) Sense-Ability. Using the BrailleSense 6! | Paid Course | Hartgen Consulting
October 6th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6 GMT | While the BrailleSense 6 is a relatively new product, largely due to previous devices offered by its manufacturers it has already established itself as a power house for work and entertainment. Find out how it works in a way which makes Braille Sense!http://hartgen.org/braillesense
7) Accessing Higher Ground Accessible Media, Web and Technology Conference by Association on Higher Education And Disability (AHEAD)
November 15th - 19th 2021 | Presented and hosted by AHEAD, Accessing Higher Ground is conducted in collaboration with ATHEN:https://accessinghigherground.org/
8) 2nd Annual Sight Tech Global 2021
December 1st & 2nd 2021 | 100% free. 100% virtual. Sight Tech Global is the first global, virtual conference dedicated to fostering discussion among technology pioneers on how rapid advances in AI and related technologies will fundamentally alter the landscape of assistive technology and accessibility. Registration is now open:https://sighttechglobal.com/
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Focus 14 Braille Display
Listing Date: 8/19/2021 | Price: $850.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: This Braille display was only used during a couple of training sessions. Carrying case and all adaptors/charger included. | Contact: Email jflower418@gmail.com 📧️ or call Jane at (415) 858-8436 📱️. |2) FOR SALE: Mathcaster for Amazon Alexa. Just Say "Alexa, Open Mathcaster"
Listing Date: 8/19/2021 | Price: $1.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Mathcaster is suitable for ages between 8-12 and is free to play. This Alexa Skill is a perfect resource to help children improve and develop their math skills. Learn more at: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B094NDXMKF?ref&ref=cm_sw_tw_r_as_dp_KypaG8Iu9kJBy. | Contact: Email nicksawka@wanderword.net 📧️ or call Nicholas at (724) 466-2087 📱️. |3) FOR SALE: Escape from 63rd & Wallace. Just say "Alexa, Open Escape 63rd"
Listing Date: 8/19/2021 | Price: $4.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Escape from 63rd is an horror audio adventure that takes the listener on a journey to Chicago in 1893, following Charlene, a young woman searching for her sister. Learn more at: https://poptale.com/releases/escape-from-63rd-and-wallace/. | Contact: Email nicksawka@wanderword.net 📧️ or call Nicholas at (724) 466-2087 📱️. |4) FOR SALE: The Cursed Painting Audio RPG. Just say "Alexa, open the Cursed Painting"
Listing Date: 8/19/2021 | Price: $1.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Explore ancient ruins in order to uncover the secret of the Cursed Painting, and stop the undead curse plaguing the kingdom in this Interactive Fantasy Adventure Game, inspired by classic tabletop RPG's. Learn more at: https://poptale.com/releases/the-cursed-painting/. | Contact: Email nicksawka@wanderword.net 📧️ or call Nicholas at (724) 466-2087 📱️. |5) FOR SALE: One BrailleSense Polaris Mini
Listing Date: 8/5/2021 | Price: $2,000.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: This 20-cell Android notetaker is in mint condition and needs a new forever home. Has new mother board, all original packaging, accessories and documentation including braille quick start guide along with an Executive Products case. | Contact: Email dave@speedyturtle.net 📧️ or call Dave at (918) 527-0688 📱️. |2) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ VisionAware Resources Including the Directory of Services
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/081920211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
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Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ Accessible Pharmacy Joins Be My Eyes
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Build A Foundational Understanding Of Construction And Electronics With BRIC: Structures® Access Kit From APH - An Adapted Version Of An Educational Elenco® Product For Students Who Are Blind And Visually Impaired!
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ GuideLights And Gadgets: August Specials
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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 Martineau
➜ Voice Training
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: Carroll Center for the Blind
➜ Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
https://carroll.org/screen-reader-user-tester-training-program/
Sponsor Since: August 5th 2021
Website: https://carroll.org/ 🌐
Phone: (617) 969-6200 📱️
Fax: (617) 969-6204 ░Shop: https://carroll.org/store/ 🛒
Donate: https://carroll.org/donate ❤
Social: Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | LinkedIn | Instagram
About: The Carroll Center for the Blind is the foremost leader in vision rehabilitation services for individuals confronted by the challenges of vision loss. Our mission is to empower those who are blind or visually impaired to achieve independence and to lead a fulfilling life. Established in 1936, the renowned Carroll Center for the Blind has been serving those with vision impairment for over eight decades; we are known nationally as a premier Vision Rehabilitation Center. Located just outside of Boston on a sprawling campus in Newton, Massachusetts, we proudly serve ALL ages and ALL stages of vision loss. With the ongoing promise of improving the lives of people with vision-related problems, The Carroll Center for the Blind has pioneered many innovative services allowing people who are blind or have low vision to learn the skills to be independent in their homes, in class settings, and in their work places. Our services include vision rehabilitation, vocational and transition programs, assistive technology training, educational support, and recreation opportunities for individuals who are visually impaired of all ages. For over 80 years, the expertise of Carroll Center staff has provided help for thousands of blind and visually impaired persons with diverse opportunities for success and independent living.
Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions
➜ 3 Easy Steps To Accessible Shared Content For Your Remote Presentations: Rid Digital Darkness For Blind Attendee's Forever!
https://scribeformeetings.com/
Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
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|
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, August 12, 2021 - Volume 819 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, August 12, 2021 - Volume 819
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: One Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Package Available! Please Join Us In Supporting The Ongoing Distribution of this Publication. Join These 11 Industry Leaders and Begin Reaching Over 6,700 Assistive Technology Professionals, Educators and Enthusiasts Each Week!
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Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Leading Text-To-Speech iOS App is Now Free for the Blind: (11.3% of all clicks.)https://www.applevis.com/forum/ios-ipados/leading-text-speech-app-now-free-blind
B.) Add Alexa to Your iPhone or iPad Home Screen and Forget You Even Knew Siri: (8.5% of all clicks.)
https://www.cnet.com/news/best-wireless-security-cameras/
C.) 7 Simple Ways to Speed Up Your Smartphone: (6.2% of all clicks.)
https://www.komando.com/smartphones-gadgets/speed-up-a-smartphone/778456/
D.) A Call For Disabled Explorers to Experience Zero Gravity! | US Residents Only at Present | Deadline to Apply: August 15th 2021 by 11:59 PM ET: (5.6% of all clicks.)
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSds1gP761NVhqiJYZPn_W9-2FgUm3F6hZp5YtZComCgAUGVhQ/viewform
E.) Trying iOS Made Me Appreciate These 8 Android Features A Lot More: (4.9% of all clicks.)
https://www.androidpolice.com/2021/07/31/trying-ios-made-me-appreciate-these-8-android-features-a-lot-more/
2) Top Tech Tidbits "Most Clicked Tidbit" Weekly Contest | $250 USD Annual Cash Prize | Week #32 of 52
Number of Votes Last Week: 19 | Number of Winners Last Week: 2 | Winner Names: Casey Matthews and Prabhu | Current Overall Winner: Maya with 2 of 52 points. | Current 2nd Place Winners: 15 Players with 1 of 52 points each. | How well do you know adaptive technology? Do you think that you could consistently identify adaptive technology trends if given the opportunity? Well here's your chance. You can now cast your vote each week for the one Tidbit that you believe will receive the most clicks. Get it right more than anyone else each week and you win a $250.00 USD cash prize at the end of the year (December 31st 2021). In addition, there may be opportunities for winners to join our editorial team. The premise is simple and voting is easy. Can you pick the one Tidbit out of each issue that will get the most clicks? If you think you can, or at least would like to try, learn everything there is to know about the contest here and start casting your vote today:Learn More:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/36.html
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Leaderboard: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/premium-subscribers.html
3) One Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Package Currrently Available
Please join us in supporting the ongoing distribution of this publication. Join 11 other industry leaders and begin reaching over 6,700 assistive technology professionals, educators and enthusiasts each week. All while enjoying some really incredible marketing benefits. If this sounds like you, please reach out to our publisher today at: publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️. Or learn more at:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
4) PowerPoint Tips and Tricks for JAWS Users from Freedom Scientific
Are you looking for ways to navigate in PowerPoint more efficiently with JAWS? Want tips for increasing productivity when creating and giving presentations? Download or stream Freedom Scientific's recorded training, "PowerPoint Tips and Tricks for JAWS Users:"https://blog.freedomscientific.com/powerpoint-tips-and-tricks-for-jaws-users/
5) Link Correction | Applications Now Open for the Chance to Become an "AstroAccess Ambassador" | Deadline To Apply: August 15th 2021
Selected applicants will act as crew members onboard the 2021 Mission: AstroAccess parabolic flight with ZERO-G! They will also be responsible for using this experience to publicly advocate for inclusion and accessibility in space. Several readers reported correctly last week that the link within the main menu to apply for this was broken. So we located a second, functional link at the bottom of the page and have included it here. Please be advised that this is a link to Google Form:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSds1gP761NVhqiJYZPn_W9-2FgUm3F6hZp5YtZComCgAUGVhQ/viewform?usp=sf_link
6) iOS Custom Accessibility Actions
When testing your app with VoiceOver or Switch Control, a common test is to ensure you can reach every interactive element on screen. If these assistive technologies can't focus all of your buttons how will your customers be able to interact fully with your app? Except there are times when hiding buttons from your assistive technology users is the better choice. Consider an app with a table view that has many repeating interactive elements — this could be a social media app where 'like, share, reply' etc is repeated for each post. Or perhaps an e-commerce app with 'wishlist, buy now, add to basket' are repeated for each item. Visually these buttons won"t interrupt your users skimming the list of content, but for VoiceOver or Switch Control users, they will have to visit each one for every item on the screen. This is going to make navigating your app long and tedious, and means your users are more likely to drop out. To improve this:https://medium.com/@r.whitaker/ios-custom-accessibility-actions-fcaa26963c08
7) Scribe For Meetings Browser Extension Now Available
Now there are even fewer steps to take when you need to attend an online meeting and want to enjoy real-time access to the digital content presented on screen during the meeting. Links to download the new browser extension for Firefox, Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge included:https://pneumasolutions.com/the-scribe-for-meetings-extension-is-now-available-on-your-favorite-browser/
8) Here"s How to Try All the Top New iOS 15 Features Now
The next version of Apple's iPhone operating system debuts this fall, but you can try the public beta — at your own risk:https://www.wired.com/story/apple-iphone-ios-15-ipados-15-new-features/
9) How To Access Images Without Alt Text | Recognizing Images With Seeing AI
Veroniiiica shares her workarounds and tips for how to access images without alt text and get descriptive information when it is not otherwise made available. While having quality alt text/image descriptions provided will always be a better option, she believes (and we agree) that it's important for people to have other tools that they can use to access images when these things are not available:https://veroniiiica.com/2021/08/02/how-to-access-images-without-alt-text/
10) Google Assistant Adds Accessibility Settings For 'Mic Notification' on Android
Similar to Smart Displays and speakers, Google is adding Accessibility settings for Assistant on Android. However, the exact functionality remains unclear at the moment:https://9to5google.com/2021/08/02/google-assistant-settings-accessibility/
11) U.S. Access Board Launches New Site for the ICT Testing Baseline for Web Accessibility
In partnership with the General Services Administration (GSA) and the ICT Baseline Working Group in coordination with the CIO Council Accessibility Community of Practice (CIOC ACOP), the U.S. Access Board has released a baseline for testing web content. The ICT Testing Baseline for Web Accessibility sets minimum testing criteria and evaluation guidance to determine if web content meets the 508 Standards that incorporate by reference the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 Level AA:https://www.access-board.gov/news/2021/08/04/u-s-access-board-launches-new-site-for-the-ict-testing-baseline-for-web-accessibility/
12) Microsoft PowerToys 0.43 Released With Many Improvements
The PowerToys 0.43 release was originally planned for July, but it is finally available after a short delay. The new version 0.43 is a maintenance update; it corrects some bugs and includes a number of improvements:https://winaero.com/microsoft-released-powertoys-0-43-with-many-improvements/
13) Day One, The App That Has Made Journaling Fun For Me
A blog post about a cross-platform journal app:https://www.steves.life/day-one-the-app-that-has-made-journaling-fun-for-me/
14) Microsoft To Do, My Current Favorite App For Getting Things I Need To Do, To Done:
From the same blogger:https://www.steves.life/microsoft-to-do-my-current-favorite-app-for-getting-things-i-need-to-do-to-done/
15) SenseCast the HIMS International Podcast
Jenny Axler has launched a podcast:https://anchor.fm/hims
16) Use JAWS Find in Word and Ourtlook
It's a lot easier to use JAWS Find in those programs than the internal find functions, as Brian Hartgen demonstrates:http://www.hartgen.org/tips
17) Why Siri, Alexa, & Every Other AI Voice Has Been Feminine
From YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gBlPxpaum6U
18) iPhone101: ScripTalk App Demonstration
Also includes an interview with Envision America's Marketing Director:https://blindabilities.com/?p=6869
19) How I Think Smart Watches Are Way More Useful Than You May Think
Our Editor Dean Martineau is still contemplating this, because he is not yet converted:https://accessibility-insights.com/2016/11/01/how-i-think-watches-are-way-more-useful-than-many-think/
20) Latest Accessibility News Archives
WebABLE keeps us current:https://webable.com/article-category/latest-accessibility-news/
21) An Overview of Microsoft OneNote for Windows 10
A thorough overview courtesy of BlindBargains:https://www.blindbargains.com/bargains.php?m=22112
22) Nimer Tech and Outdoor Adventures on YouTube
Frequent videos about Android, Windows and the outdoors:https://www.youtube.com/nimerjaber
23) YouTube Webinar Recording | Talk To The Experts: Getting The Most Out of JAWS, Focus 40 and the ElBraille
In this webinar Danny Keogh from Quantum RLV and Damian McMorrow explore some of the key features of JAWS screen reading software and discuss and demonstrate the benefits of combining JAWS with the Focus 40 5th generation and the ElBraille 40 V to provide a portable Windows and braille computing device suitable for home, education or the workplace:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fBnfnKH1Erg&t=1411s
24) Final Version of New Website NVDA-ADDONS.ORG Now Available
The final version of NVDA-addons.org, the first website created to serve as an international directory for both official and unofficial NVDA add-ons, is now available:https://nvda-addons.org/
25) How Microsoft Soundscape Can Help People Who Are Vision Impaired
Microsoft has launched Soundscape in Ireland, an app that uses 3D audio to give people a richer sense of their environment. The app, which is now available for free on iOS, aims to help people who are blind or vision impaired to navigate around cities and towns by employing audio technology:https://www.siliconrepublic.com/innovation/microsoft-soundscape-3d-audio-ireland
26) Voice Commands Are Now Available for Outlook Emails
Outlook 365 desktop (Windows/Mac) is getting more Dictation controls for email creation and sending:https://office-watch.com/2021/voice-commands-are-now-available-for-outlook-emails/
27) NVDA 2021.2beta1 Available for Testing
Beta1 of NVDA 2021.2 is now available for download and testing. For anyone who is interested in trying out what the next version of NVDA has to offer before it is officially released, you are hereby welcome to download the beta and provide feedback:https://www.nvaccess.org/post/nvda-2021-2beta1/
28) Microsoft Edge is Now Safer Thanks to Super-Duper Secure Mode
In the official blog, the Microsoft Browser Vulnerability Research team details a new flag for Microsoft Edge called "Super-Duper Secure Mode." It intends to improve Edge's security by disabling JIT (Just-in-Time) compilation in the V8 JavaScript engine. Microsoft says bugs in JavaScript inside modern browsers are the most common vector for attackers. According to CVE data from 2019, approximately 45% of attacks on V8 relate to JIT. Disabling that component makes Microsoft Edge more secure and harder to crack:https://winaero.com/microsoft-edge-is-now-safer-thanks-to-super-duper-secure-mode/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) GuideLights and Gadgets Releases July 2021 Products Catalog
Below are brief descriptions and prices of items available from GuideLights and Gadgets through the remainder of July. Items that have limited quantities are shown either by a quantity available or by "ltd." The use of the word "clearance" before the price of an item is also self explanatory. Most clearance items are being deeply discounted as we reduce our supply of these items. All such items will be in excellent to mint condition:https://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/Gadgets.html
2) Audio-Based Indie Game The Vale Broadens Representation & Accessibility
Working closely with the blind and visually impaired community, the developers of The Vale have crafted a game that raises the bar for accessibility:https://www.cbr.com/the-vale-indie-game-blind-representation/
3) Barilla Partners with Be My Eyes to Share Pasta Knowledge and Insights with the Visually Impaired Across the U.S.
Beginning August 9th 2021, a team of Barilla "Pasta Professionals" will field calls from the Specialized Help section of Be My Eyes' iOS and Android apps to support those who are cooking delicious pasta at home. Whether you are wondering how long to cook Barilla Bucatini to ensure it is al dente for a Carbonara recipe or picking the perfect Barilla sauce to make a Bolognese, the pasta experts can answer queries around package labels, basic cooking instructions, product availability and more on weekdays from noon to 4PM Central time:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/barilla-partners-with-be-my-eyes-to-share-pasta-knowledge-and-insights-with-the-visually-impaired-across-the-us-301351246.html
4) Designing a Typeface for the Visually Impaired
Applied Design's Atkinson Hyperlegible typeface was developed as part of its rebranding of the Braille Institute of America. Here's how they did it:https://www.designweek.co.uk/issues/2-8-august-2021/designing-atkinson-hyperlegible/
5) 4 Ways Hollywood Is Working to Increase Deaf and Disability Inclusion
From American Sign Language interpreters at the Oscars, to studio and network pledges to audition disabled actors, here's an accounting of the industry's current efforts:https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/hollywood-initiatives-deaf-disability-inclusion-1234991796/
6) This is a Cookbook for the Visually Impaired Written in Braille in Which the Recipes Require the Use of Only Four Human Senses: Touch, Smell, Hearing and Taste (Video)
From Reuters:https://www.latestly.com/socially/world/watch-this-is-a-cookbook-for-the-visually-impaired-written-in-braille-in-which-the-latest-tweet-by-reuters-2722610.html
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Blind Android Users 35 | Envision What Colour Is It?
August 7th 2021 | in this episode we talk about colour detectors. We demo the colour detection feature of envision and Sullivan Plus. Then we demo a colour detector app known as Colour Grab. In our spotlight segment we have Karthik from envision AI for an interview. In our app of the week, Kareen Kiwan demos auto tts app. In our talkback tip of the week, Warren shows some gestures to make navigating around your phone easy:https://blindandroidusers.com/
2) Mosen At Large 142
August 7th 2021 Leona Godin, author of There Plant Eyes, a Personal and Cultural History of Blindness:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/a7d6c791/leona-godin-author-of-there-plant-eyes-a-personal-and-cultural-history-of-blindness
3) Eyes on Success 2133 | Encore of 1844 Sounds of the Stars
August 11th 2021Last week we talked about creating tactile representations of the universe. This week hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Greg Salvesen, a post-doctoral fellow at UCSB, and Matt Russo, a professor of astronomy at Seneca College about using sonification to transform astronomical data into audio for use by both sighted and vision impaired people:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%201233.htm
4) That Real Blind Tech Show 47 | Yahoo Fantasy Football The Ultimate Demo
August 11th 2021It's another spectacular That Real Blind Tech show demo. This time, Brian walks you through the Yahoo Fantasy Football app for iOS. Brian briefly discusses the difference between season long, daily fantasy, and Best Ball Leagues. He describes how to join a Yahoo Fantasy football League. Brian then walks you through the my team home screen, the main tabs you will use, and the league screen.Brian then walks you through once of his head to head baseball weekly matchups to give you an idea how football scoring matchups will work. He follows that with joining a football mock draft, and showing you how VoiceOver works when live drafting. For you hard core fantasy football fanatics, Brian finishes with walking you through how to pre-rank your draft rankings using Google Chrome on the Mac:
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-46-audio-description-czar-a-conversation-with-carl-richardson
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Telework In Action: A Disability Inclusion Practice Whose Time Has Arrived from EARN
August 12th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | During the COVID-19 pandemic, many companies quickly transitioned to telework. As a result, much has been learned about conducting business in a teleworking environment. Once considered a workplace accommodation or employee benefit, telework has now become a common workplace practice. This webinar will focus on how organizations and employees have adapted to telework and how it will remain an integral part of the workplace of the future. Guest speakers will discuss the many benefits of telework, including cost savings, increased productivity of employees, and expanded access to a qualified talent pool of people with disabilities. Participants will also learn about providing accommodations remotely and ensuring accessibility of recruiting, onboarding, communication, and training platforms:https://askearn.org/webinar-registration-august-12-2021/
2) Introduction to Audio Description from 3Play Media
August 12th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | This webinar will cover the basics of how to add audio description to online video, legal requirements for audio description, video player compatibility, examples and demos, how to create audio description, and benefits of audio description outside of accessibility:https://go.3playmedia.com/wbnr-08-12-2021-ad
3) Technology User Group Helps You Prepare for the Changes Coming to Your iDevice and Computer
August 14th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | On On Saturday, August 14th 2021 the Technology User Group helps you prepare for the changes coming to your iDevice and computer. This September, iOS 15 will be released. Is your phone eligible for the upgrade? What new features can you expect? Is Siri going to have added skills and abilities? Also, we will look at the expected changes to Jaws and Zoomtext as they move toward a new Beta version debuting in October. You do not have to RSVP for this event. The presentation will last about 90 minutes. We look forward to meeting with you virtually and hope that you will join us for other exciting events we have planned for 2021. This presentation will be virtual and may be joined by calling:(319) 527-4994 📱️
4) Fun Activities Using Music with Technology from AbleNet
August 18th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | This presentation features remote class activities highlighting the use of music with technology. The activities are tailored to students with special needs, including the types of devices to consider:https://ablenetinc.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_eJniiye1TeKvo8Z8DrNLoA
5) Tech for Teens Club: LEGO Stop-Motion Videos from PACER
August 21st 2021 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, XXX GMT | Using just a mobile phone and LEGO brand toys, we'll be learning how to create stop-motion style videos that you can share with your family and friends. Learn the techniques to create smooth animation using the Stop Motion Studio app (iPhone & Android). Then create your own stories and bring your characters to life!https://www.pacer.org/workshops/
6) Speech recognition for communication impairments from CallScotland
August 25th 2021 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Project Euphonia is a Google Research initiative focused on helping people with atypical speech be better understood. The approach is centred on analysing speech recordings to better train speech recognition models. The aim is for people living with dysarthria or other speech difficulties to be better understood by speech recognition technology such as Google Assistant. In this webinar, Richard will discuss the Euphonia project and how people living with speech impairment can participate. With the forecast being that by 2024, there will be more devices that can interact with voice than the global population, it is vitally important that everyone is included in the development of the technology behind speech recognition:https://www.callscotland.org.uk/professional-learning/webinars/WEB194/
7) iBUG Introductory Mac Training Course
September 7th 2021 This 12-week course is free, and you are expected to work, attend and participate. It starts Tuesday, September 7th 2021. Email by August 27th 2021 to see the requirements you have to adhere to, and provide the model or year of your Mac:chanellem.allen@gmail.com 📧️
8) 2021 M-Enabling Summit - Promoting Accessible Technologies and Environments
October 4th - 6th 2021 | The M-Enabling Summit Conference and Showcase is dedicated to promoting digital environments and assistive technologies for senior citizens and users of all abilities. It is an annual meeting place for all who implement digital inclusion strategies or develop assistive solutions and accessible digital contents and services for workplaces, learning environments or consumer markets:https://m-enabling.com/
9) Accessing Higher Ground Accessible Media, Web and Technology Conference by Association on Higher Education And Disability (AHEAD)
November 15th - 19th 2021 | Presented and hosted by AHEAD, Accessing Higher Ground is conducted in collaboration with ATHEN:https://accessinghigherground.org/
10) 2nd Annual Sight Tech Global 2021
December 1st & 2nd 2021 | 100% free. 100% virtual. Sight Tech Global is the first global, virtual conference dedicated to fostering discussion among technology pioneers on how rapid advances in AI and related technologies will fundamentally alter the landscape of assistive technology and accessibility. Registration is now open:https://sighttechglobal.com/
➜ Surveys
1) Twitter Spaces Usability Study
Close Date: August 16th 2021 Level Access supports businesses of all sizes in their accessibility journeys. We conduct usability research studies, focusing on individuals with disabilities' ability to interact with different digital experiences. We are currently seeking participants for a new usability study on Twitter Spaces. This study will take place during the week of 8/16 - 8/20. Sessions will be approximately 60 minutes long and will be conducted remotely using Zoom. Participants will receive a $150 Amazon gift card in thanks for their time and feedback. If you are interested, please complete the survey in the link below. If it looks like you will be a good candidate for our study, you will be contacted to schedule your sessionhttps://levelaccess.surveymonkey.com/r/HYBVD2V
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One BrailleSense Polaris Mini
Listing Date: 8/5/2021 | Price: $2,000.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: This 20-cell Android notetaker is in mint condition and needs a new forever home. Has new mother board, all original packaging, accessories and documentation including braille quick start guide along with an Executive Products case. | Contact: Email dave@speedyturtle.net 📧️ or call Dave at (918) 527-0688 📱️. |2) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/081220211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
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Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ Accessible Pharmacy Joins Be My Eyes
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Build A Foundational Understanding Of Construction And Electronics With BRIC: Structures® Access Kit From APH - An Adapted Version Of An Educational Elenco® Product For Students Who Are Blind And Visually Impaired!
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ GuideLights And Gadgets: Specials
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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 Martineau
➜ Voice Training
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: Carroll Center for the Blind
Sponsor Since: August 5th 2021
Website: https://carroll.org/ 🌐
Phone: (617) 969-6200 📱️
Fax: (617) 969-6204 ░Shop: https://carroll.org/store/ 🛒
Donate: https://carroll.org/donate ❤
Social: Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | LinkedIn | Instagram
About: The Carroll Center for the Blind is the foremost leader in vision rehabilitation services for individuals confronted by the challenges of vision loss. Our mission is to empower those who are blind or visually impaired to achieve independence and to lead a fulfilling life. Established in 1936, the renowned Carroll Center for the Blind has been serving those with vision impairment for over eight decades; we are known nationally as a premier Vision Rehabilitation Center. Located just outside of Boston on a sprawling campus in Newton, Massachusetts, we proudly serve ALL ages and ALL stages of vision loss. With the ongoing promise of improving the lives of people with vision-related problems, The Carroll Center for the Blind has pioneered many innovative services allowing people who are blind or have low vision to learn the skills to be independent in their homes, in class settings, and in their work places. Our services include vision rehabilitation, vocational and transition programs, assistive technology training, educational support, and recreation opportunities for individuals who are visually impaired of all ages. For over 80 years, the expertise of Carroll Center staff has provided help for thousands of blind and visually impaired persons with diverse opportunities for success and independent living.
Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions
➜ 3 Easy Steps To Accessible Shared Content For Your Remote Presentations: Rid Digital Darkness For Blind Attendee's Forever!
https://scribeformeetings.com/
Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ VisionAware Resources Including the Directory of Services
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, August 5, 2021 - Volume 818 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, August 5, 2021 - Volume 818
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
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Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Scribe for Meetings: Click, Connect, Control
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Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Everything New With Siri in iOS 15: On-Device Processing, Offline Support, Sharing, Improved Context and More: (10.7% of all clicks.)https://www.macrumors.com/guide/ios-15-siri/
B.) Game-Changing iPhone Features That Make Life With a Disability Easier: (6.6% of all clicks.)
https://www.greenwichtime.com/business/article/Game-Changing-iPhone-Features-That-Make-Life-With-16340633.php
C.) AccessWorld July 2021: (5.6% of all clicks.)
https://www.afb.org/aw/22/7
D.) New Award-Winning App Helps the Visually Impaired Manage Their Wardrobe: (3.7% of all clicks.)
https://newsroom.carleton.ca/2021/new-award-winning-app-helps-the-visually-impaired-manage-their-wardrobe/
E.) Audiobooks are Books, Too: (3.5% of all clicks.)
http://www.blindscholar.com/2021/07/21/audiobooks-are-books-too/
2) Top Tech Tidbits "Most Clicked Tidbit" Weekly Contest | Week #31 of 52 | This Week's Odds: 1 of 20
Number of votes last week: 20. | Number of winners last week: 12. | Ka Li, Keith Bundy, Howard Goldstein, Kathy, Mary, Bhrapa Bhrapakaran, Jim Denham, Bill Belew, Michelle McKeller, Austin Pinto, Andre Polykanine and Maya.| How well do you know adaptive technology? Do you think that you could consistently identify adaptive technology trends if given the opportunity? Well here's your chance. You can now cast your vote each week for the one Tidbit that you believe will receive the most clicks. Get it right more than anyone else each week and you win a $250.00 USD cash prize at the end of the year (December 31st 2021). In addition, there may be opportunities for winners to join our editorial team. The premise is simple and voting is easy. Can you pick the one Tidbit out of each issue that will get the most clicks? If you think you can, or at least would like to try, learn everything there is to know about the contest here and start casting your vote today:Learn More:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/36.html
Vote Now:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/premium-subscribers.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Welcomes Aboard Carroll Center for the Blind | One Sponsorship Package Currently Available
Please join all of us here at Tidbits in welcoming aboard Carroll Center for the Blind, who has so very graciously agreed to support the ongoing distribution of Top Tech Tidbits by becoming a sponsor. If you look forward to Tidbits every week, it is sponsors like Carroll Center for the Blind that make it possible. If you would like to join 11 other industry leaders in supporting Tidbits, while enjoying some really incredible marketing benefits, please reach out to our publisher today at: publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️. Or learn more at:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
4) A Call For Disabled Explorers to Experience Zero Gravity! | US Residents Only at Present | Deadline to Apply: August 15th 2021 by 11:59 PM ET
Apply Now. Applications are now open for the chance to become an "AstroAccess Ambassador"! In addition to becoming participants on a ZERO-G parabolic flight, AstroAccess Ambassadors will be responsible for sharing their experience with the public. They will become advocates for disability inclusion and equity in space exploration. To be eligible, you must meet all of the following requirements:https://astroaccess.org/apply-now/?mc_cid=9b53922c94&mc_eid=32b1c40763
5) Google Docs is Getting A Major Accessibility Upgrade
One of the most important Google Workspace tools is getting a significant software upgrade that should make the productivity suite more accessible than ever. The company has revealed an update to braille mode in Google Docs that it says makes it easier for users of assistive technology to interact with suggestions in documents. This means anyone using a screen reader or refreshable braille displays will be able to get a more interactive experience with Google Docs, with the company saying users will now now hear detailed suggestion information inline with the rest of the text - including whether the suggestion is an insertion or deletion, and the author of the suggestion:https://www.techradar.com/amp/news/google-docs-is-getting-a-major-accessibility-upgrade
6) AppleVis Unlimited: What's New and Noteworthy for July 2021
The comprehensive summary of iOS developments from AppleVis:https://www.applevis.com/newsletter/applevis-unlimited-whats-new-and-noteworthy-july-2021
7) New Audio Games Recordings Repository Website
This resource comes to us from a reader by the name of Edgar who has started this website with another contributor in which they list recordings of people playing games, mostly audio-only games. These are recordings by members of the visually impaired gaming community that have been collected over the years. Be sure to check back often. It is our understanding that this website will be consistently updated:https://audiogamerecordings.com/
8) Trying iOS Made Me Appreciate These 8 Android Features A Lot More
This comes from Android Police:https://www.androidpolice.com/2021/07/31/trying-ios-made-me-appreciate-these-8-android-features-a-lot-more/
9) Access RNIB Audio Books Through Alexa
For those eligible, this 30,000 book collection can be accessible using Alexa devices:https://www.rnib.org.uk/connect-community/connect-technology/access-thousands-audio-books-through-alexa
10) The Thoughts and Ramblings of Steve, Musings, Observations, and Experiences as I Make My Way in the World:
This worthwhile blog has frequent accessibility-related posts:https://www.steves.life/
11) Leading Text-To-Speech iOS App is Now Free for the Blind
The paid app Speech Central is now free to VoiceOver users. The app has received considerable positive feedback on the AppleVis forum:https://www.applevis.com/forum/ios-ipados/leading-text-speech-app-now-free-blind
12) Add Alexa to Your iPhone or iPad Home Screen and Forget You Even Knew Siri
This is indeed tempting!https://www.cnet.com/news/best-wireless-security-cameras/
13) 7 Simple Ways to Speed Up Your Smartphone
From the Kim Komando page:https://www.komando.com/smartphones-gadgets/speed-up-a-smartphone/778456/
14) Accessibility in Gaming Resources
This is an extensive Google Doc by Jennifer Kretchmer. A more complete paid version is available:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ZFSXz-Yva1KZAsP7NblCdkoiQ6RcjxSV2gj98eXusJs/edit
15) You Need a Budget
The YNAB iOS app has been thoroughly inaccessible, but reports are that this has changed dramatically for the better:https://www.youneedabudget.com/
16) Power of Using TalkBack Voice Commands
YouTube about a recent TalkBack feature:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lnSHKYPYG8g
17) 5 Best Dictation Apps for iPhone
For this review, SwitchingToMac.com focuses on the best dictation apps for transcribing speech to text on an iPhone:https://www.switchingtomac.com/tutorials/iphone/5-best-dictation-apps-for-iphone/
18) Winaero Tweaker 1.3 Now Available | Allows You to Move Windows 11 Taskbar And More
Several new features and fixes:https://winaero.com/winaero-tweaker-1-30-is-here-allows-you-to-move-windows-11-taskbar-and-more/
19) Webinar On Demand: Excel Tips and Tricks for JAWS Users by Freedom Scientific
Are you looking for ways to navigate in Excel more efficiently with JAWS? Want tips for increasing productivity when creating and editing spreadsheets? Stream or download Freedom Scientific's latest pre-recorded training, "Excel Tips and Tricks for JAWS Users" at:https://blog.freedomscientific.com/excel-tips-and-tricks-for-jaws-users/
20) Siri To Lose Control Over Some Third-Party Apps in iOS 15
This week, Apple released iOS and iPadOS 15 Public Beta 4 so that the software can still be tested and kinks worked out before the release of the final versions in September. What beta testers have recently discovered is that Siri is going to lose some of her abilities once the next major build of iOS and iPadOS are dropped:https://www.phonearena.com/news/siri-to-lose-some-third-party-app-support-in-ios-15_id133995
21) Google is Trying to Limit What Apps Can Use An Accessibility Service (Again)
Android offers an Accessibility Service API that exposes certain system events to apps. The API is incredibly powerful, as it lets apps listen for events such as when a user clicks on a link, views a window, and much more. As its name suggests, the API is only meant for apps that solve an accessibility need, but it has been misused by malicious apps in the past. Due to this, Google once tried to restrict apps from using the API back in 2017. And the company is now trying to do it again:https://www.xda-developers.com/google-trying-limit-apps-accessibility-service/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Cloudflare's Inaccessible Browser Contradicts The Company's Mission | An Open Letter to Matthew Prince, CEO, Cloudflare by Matt Campbell | July 30th 2021
Mr. Prince: About four months ago, Cloudflare launched Browser Isolation during Security Week, without ensuring that the product is accessible to blind people using screen readers. Now, four months later, this problem is still not solved. Cloudflare's neglect of accessibility in this product raises a new barrier to employment for blind people as companies adopt this product to improve the security of their networks:https://mwcampbell.github.io/cloudflare-browser-isolation-letter/
2) How Accessibility at the Summer's Gaming Events Stack Up
While a number of recent announcements highlighted accessibility in games, or offered great options for viewers, there's more work to be done:https://www.wired.com/story/accessibility-summer-gaming-events/
3) Optic Device Offers Aid To Visually Impaired Swimmers
A navigation aid that allows visually impaired competitive swimmers to train safely has been developed by a product design student at Loughborough University:https://www.theengineer.co.uk/optic-visually-impaired-swimmers-navigation-loughborough/
4) Who Can Be An Astronaut? Accessible Spaceships May Be The Future
In February, the ESA sent out an unprecedented call for its next generation of astronauts. The group would include people with physical disabilities that would have otherwise excluded them from the chance to explore the cosmos:https://www.inverse.com/science/being-astronaut-is-no-longer-a-hardcore-male-domain
5) 5 Steps to Design Apps with Keyboard Accessibility in Mind
This article comes to us from Shopify, one of the world's premier providers of ecommerce solutions, and as of 2021 the largest publicly traded Canadian company by market capitalization:https://www.shopify.in/partners/blog/keyboard-accessibility
6) Guide Dog Owner Challenged at Vaccine Centre Reveals 'Healthcare Inequalities for Blind People'
A man who said he was refused entry to a Covid vaccine centre because of his guide dog is highlighting the challenges blind and visually impaired people face when accessing the jab:https://www.itv.com/news/wales/2021-08-02/i-was-almost-turned-away-from-getting-the-vaccine-because-of-my-guide-dog
7) Ashirase, A Honda Incubation, Reveals Advanced Walking Assistance System for Visually Impaired
Ashirase, which debuted as the first business venture to come out of Honda's Ignition program in June 2021, shared details of its in-shoe navigation system for low-vision walkers on Tuesday, July 27th 2021. The system aims to help users achieve more independence in their daily lives by allowing them to feel which way to walk through in-shoe vibrations connected to a navigation app on a smartphone. Ashirase hopes to begin sales of the system, also named Ashirase, by October 2022:https://techcrunch.com/2021/07/28/ashirase-a-honda-incubation-reveals-advanced-walking-assistance-system-for-visually-impaired/
8) For Its Visually Impaired Competitors, The Game of Goalball Moves at the Speed of Sound
The game is called goalball, a team sport designed specifically for the visually impaired. Baldock, who hails from Edmonton, is headed to Tokyo next month to compete with the Canadian team at the Paralympics:https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/paralympics-goalball-brieann-baldock-1.6127670
9) 'Society Sometimes Disables Us': Former Paralympian Highlights Issues Faced by Disabled People
Although Janice Tillett once competed for Britain in the Paralympics, she told ITV News her disability means she faces avoidable barriers. "Things are not always accessible," says Ms Tillett, who is visually impaired, partially deaf, and has joint issues. She cites accessibility on public transport as an example, a bugbear of many disabled people:https://www.itv.com/news/2021-07-27/government-unveils-100-pledges-as-part-of-16-billion-disability-strategy
10) New Award-Winning App Helps The Blind And Visually Impaired Manage Their Clothes
Two Industrial Design students from Carleton University have won an Innovative Designs for Accessibility (IDeA) student competition award from Universities Canada. Liana Meere and Mandy Hui took top honours in the competition's Attitudinal/Systemic barriers category for their concept Closet, a label system that enables people with visual disabilities to independently manage their clothes:https://coolblindtech.com/new-award-winning-app-helps-the-blind-and-visually-impaired-manage-their-clothes/
11) The Apps That Are Redefining Accessibility
For those of us with disabilities, the digital divide predates the pandemic. But new tools are opening new pathways for participation:https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-07-29/the-apps-and-technology-helping-people-with-disabilities
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Blind Android Users 34 | You've Got E-Mail and Is Your Phone Water Resistant?
July 31st 2021 | In this episode we first discuss the new policy of Google that will remove apps from the play store if they have not been updated by the developer for a long time. We demo popular email clients in our must have apps section. We then show what is new in the latest update of Commentary screen reader. We then demo an app in our app of the week section called water resistant which tells you if your phone is water resistant:https://blindandroidusers.com/
2) Mosen At Large 141
August 1st 2021 Staying in step with a cane, is blindness your dominant culture, weird iOS mispronunciations and more:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/c2a7e626/staying-in-step-with-a-cane-is-blindness-your-dominant-culture-weird-ios-mispronunciations-and-more
3) Eyes on Success 2132 | Making Astronomy Accessible
August 4th 2021Astronomy is generally thought to be a very visually oriented field, but with some thought, it can be made accessible to those who are blind. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Noreen Grice, founder and president of You Can Do Astronomy, about how she makes astronomical concepts and features engaging for those who can't see:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202132.htm
4) That Real Blind Tech Show 46 | Audio Description Czar, A Conversation with Carl Richardson
August 4th 2021Brian and Ed welcome Carl Richardson, Co-Chair of the Audio Description Project for the American Council of the Blind to the show. We start off discussing how Carl came to be at the ADP and what his role is at the ADp. We then discuss the panel that Carl moderated at this year's ACB National Conference on Audio Description. All 8 major streaming services were represented on the panel about Audio Description. We then discuss some of Carl's favorite features of Audio Description, and the age old question with Audio Description should the describer describe it before or after it happens? Carl and Brian then share some of their more interesting experiences with Audio Description at the movie theater. What's a movie theater? It's a big room where people used to conjugate to all watch the same movie at the same time, but that's not important right now:
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-46-audio-description-czar-a-conversation-with-carl-richardson
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Step-By-Step: An Interactive Guide to Mobility Techniques | APH
August 5th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Updated digital instruction is now available for both future O&M Specialists and those currently providing direct services to individuals with visual impairments. Attend this webinar and explore APH's newly revised product, Step-by-Step: A Guide to Mobility Techniques. This interactive computer curriculum provides demonstrations of how mobility skills are performed, visual observation skills used by professionals to spot common performance errors made by new learners who are blind, and methods for correcting errors most efficiently:https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_9bk4Hky6TaGz41QgYcxbVw
2) Flipped Classroom - Building Accessible Word documents and PowerPoints | APH
August 10th 2021 | 1PM PT, 2PM MT, 3PM CT, 4PM ET, 8PM GMT | Let's flip the webinar and use our time wisely! Register and watch two courses, Building Accessible PowerPoints and Building Accessible Word Documents, in the APH Hive and then join us in this meeting to practice working through accessibility assignments together:https://aph.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJYrdu-tqTIsHdeb_niuiM5GenHVLijQcH4q
3) Teaching Screen Readers the Fun Way with Cody Laplante: Part 3 of 4 | APH
August 10th 2021 | 1PM PT, 2PM MT, 3PM CT, 4PM ET, 8PM GMT | It's time to practice those screen reader skills! In part 3 of this 4-part series, join Cody Laplante, founder of eye.t, to learn about creating practice activities for your screen reader lessons. Learn multiple ways to incorporate fun into your practice activities and explore activities that take the intimidation out of learning JAWS, NVDA or Chromevox:https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_CVaXOpgqTa6eKOPypioXQw
4) Typing in iOS on Tech Time
August 11th 2021 | 1PM PT, 2PM MT, 3PM CT, 4PM ET, 8PM GMT | We've mentioned Tech time, the monthly Zoom smartphone training, before. During this webinar, learn ways to input text on an iPhone, with emphasis on braille screen input:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9357099741?pwd=YVhxTVg0Nm1KQytCQ0xJM1JvZDhYUT09
5) Wired Wednesday: AT Bits & Bytes with TFL and WATAP
August 11th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Tools for Life, Georgia's Assistive Technology Act Program, has joined forces with the Washington Assistive Technology Act Program (WATAP) to provide a free live demonstration of assistive technology! We will be demonstrating different assistive technology solutions! Join us for a 45-minute webinar with a Q&A directly following:https://gatfl.gatech.edu//event.php?i=1066
6) Revenue Models for AT Reuse from AT3
August 11th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | This webinar will revisit to revisit what underpins the financial stability of reuse programs. We'll look at what new and traditional support strategies state and territory AT programs are using; what, if any of those have changed post-COVID; examine key staffing to promote sustainability; and explore how programs use outcomes data to promote sustainability:https://www.at3center.net/repository/callswebinars
7) Telework In Action: A Disability Inclusion Practice Whose Time Has Arrived from EARN
August 12th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | During the COVID-19 pandemic, many companies quickly transitioned to telework. As a result, much has been learned about conducting business in a teleworking environment. Once considered a workplace accommodation or employee benefit, telework has now become a common workplace practice. This webinar will focus on how organizations and employees have adapted to telework and how it will remain an integral part of the workplace of the future. Guest speakers will discuss the many benefits of telework, including cost savings, increased productivity of employees, and expanded access to a qualified talent pool of people with disabilities. Participants will also learn about providing accommodations remotely and ensuring accessibility of recruiting, onboarding, communication, and training platforms:https://askearn.org/webinar-registration-august-12-2021/
8) Introduction to Audio Description from 3Play Media
August 12th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | This webinar will cover the basics of how to add audio description to online video, legal requirements for audio description, video player compatibility, examples and demos, how to create audio description, and benefits of audio description outside of accessibility:https://go.3playmedia.com/wbnr-08-12-2021-ad
9) Technology User Group Helps You Prepare for the Changes Coming to Your iDevice and Computer
August 14th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | On On Saturday, August 14th 2021 the Technology User Group helps you prepare for the changes coming to your iDevice and computer. This September, iOS 15 will be released. Is your phone eligible for the upgrade? What new features can you expect? Is Siri going to have added skills and abilities? Also, we will look at the expected changes to Jaws and Zoomtext as they move toward a new Beta version debuting in October. You do not have to RSVP for this event. The presentation will last about 90 minutes. We look forward to meeting with you virtually and hope that you will join us for other exciting events we have planned for 2021. This presentation will be virtual and may be joined by calling:(319) 527-4994 📱️
10) Fun Activities Using Music with Technology from AbleNet
August 18th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | This presentation features remote class activities highlighting the use of music with technology. The activities are tailored to students with special needs, including the types of devices to consider:https://ablenetinc.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_eJniiye1TeKvo8Z8DrNLoA
11) Tech for Teens Club: LEGO Stop-Motion Videos from PACER
August 21st 2021 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, XXX GMT | Using just a mobile phone and LEGO brand toys, we'll be learning how to create stop-motion style videos that you can share with your family and friends. Learn the techniques to create smooth animation using the Stop Motion Studio app (iPhone & Android). Then create your own stories and bring your characters to life!https://www.pacer.org/workshops/
12) Speech recognition for communication impairments from CallScotland
August 25th 2021 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Project Euphonia is a Google Research initiative focused on helping people with atypical speech be better understood. The approach is centred on analysing speech recordings to better train speech recognition models. The aim is for people living with dysarthria or other speech difficulties to be better understood by speech recognition technology such as Google Assistant. In this webinar, Richard will discuss the Euphonia project and how people living with speech impairment can participate. With the forecast being that by 2024, there will be more devices that can interact with voice than the global population, it is vitally important that everyone is included in the development of the technology behind speech recognition:https://www.callscotland.org.uk/professional-learning/webinars/WEB194/
13) 2021 M-Enabling Summit - Promoting Accessible Technologies and Environments
October 4th - 6th 2021 | The M-Enabling Summit Conference and Showcase is dedicated to promoting digital environments and assistive technologies for senior citizens and users of all abilities. It is an annual meeting place for all who implement digital inclusion strategies or develop assistive solutions and accessible digital contents and services for workplaces, learning environments or consumer markets:https://m-enabling.com/
14) Accessing Higher Ground Accessible Media, Web and Technology Conference by Association on Higher Education And Disability (AHEAD)
November 15th - 19th 2021 | Presented and hosted by AHEAD, Accessing Higher Ground is conducted in collaboration with ATHEN:https://accessinghigherground.org/
15) 2nd Annual Sight Tech Global 2021
December 1st & 2nd 2021 | 100% free. 100% virtual. Sight Tech Global is the first global, virtual conference dedicated to fostering discussion among technology pioneers on how rapid advances in AI and related technologies will fundamentally alter the landscape of assistive technology and accessibility. Registration is now open:https://sighttechglobal.com/
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One BrailleSense Polaris Mini
Listing Date: 8/5/2021 | Price: $2,000.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: This 20-cell Android notetaker is in mint condition and needs a new forever home. Has new mother board, all original packaging, accessories and documentation including braille quick start guide along with an Executive Products case. | Contact: Email dave@speedyturtle.net 📧️ or call Dave at (918) 527-0688 📱️. |2) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ Accessible Pharmacy Joins Be My Eyes
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Build A Foundational Understanding Of Construction And Electronics With BRIC: Structures® Access Kit From APH - An Adapted Version Of An Educational Elenco® Product For Students Who Are Blind And Visually Impaired!
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ GuideLights And Gadgets: Post Convention Specials
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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 Martineau
➜ Voice Training
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: Carroll Center for the Blind
Sponsor Since: August 5th 2021
Website: https://carroll.org/ 🌐
Phone: (617) 969-6200 📱️
Fax: (617) 969-6204 ░Shop: https://carroll.org/store/ 🛒
Donate: https://carroll.org/donate ❤
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About: The Carroll Center for the Blind is the foremost leader in vision rehabilitation services for individuals confronted by the challenges of vision loss. Our mission is to empower those who are blind or visually impaired to achieve independence and to lead a fulfilling life. Established in 1936, the renowned Carroll Center for the Blind has been serving those with vision impairment for over eight decades; we are known nationally as a premier Vision Rehabilitation Center. Located just outside of Boston on a sprawling campus in Newton, Massachusetts, we proudly serve ALL ages and ALL stages of vision loss. With the ongoing promise of improving the lives of people with vision-related problems, The Carroll Center for the Blind has pioneered many innovative services allowing people who are blind or have low vision to learn the skills to be independent in their homes, in class settings, and in their work places. Our services include vision rehabilitation, vocational and transition programs, assistive technology training, educational support, and recreation opportunities for individuals who are visually impaired of all ages. For over 80 years, the expertise of Carroll Center staff has provided help for thousands of blind and visually impaired persons with diverse opportunities for success and independent living.
Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions
➜ 3 Easy Steps To Accessible Shared Content For Your Remote Presentations: Rid Digital Darkness For Blind Attendee's Forever!
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Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
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Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
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Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
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Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
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About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ VisionAware Resources Including the Directory of Services
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
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Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/080520211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
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YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, July 29, 2021 - Volume 817 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, July 29, 2021 - Volume 817
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
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Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Buy a Reveal 16 or a Reveal 16i and get the gift of a FREE battery and a FREE Exploré 5
Great news! Now and until November 30, 2021, HumanWare will extend an incredible offer! When purchasing a Reveal 16 or Reveal 16i, you'll receive an Exploré 5, our pocket-size magnifier, and a FREE battery for the Reveal 16 or Reveal 16i of your choice.
Delivering an uncompromisingly superb image quality, Reveal 16 is the simplest-to-use, transportable, desktop magnifier suitable for seniors, young students, and anyone in between looking for an easy-to-use solution. The Reveal 16i, the smart, connected, and transportable version, is a unique, all-in-one digital magnifier that will keep you engaged in today's fast-paced world and connected to your family and friends.
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Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Windows 11: Four New Keyboard Shortcuts You Must Learn: (8.9% of all clicks.)Votes: 25 | Winners: 3 | Kate Crohan, Maiia Jeffrey, Ruchika Sharma
https://www.windowscentral.com/windows-11-four-new-keyboard-shortcuts
B.) Keyboard Shortcuts in Office: (7.0% of all clicks.)
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/keyboard-shortcuts-in-office-e765366f-24fc-4054-870d-39b214f223fd
C.) Microsoft Announces Windows 365, A Cloud OS You Can Stream: (4.5% of all clicks.)
https://www.windowscentral.com/microsoft-announces-windows-365-version-windows-you-can-stream-cloud
D.) How to Order Groceries with Amazon Alexa: (4.2% of all clicks.)
https://www.howtogeek.com/735972/how-to-order-groceries-with-amazon-alexa/
E.) Blind Accessibility Tips Website: (3.9% of all clicks.)
https://blindaccessibilitytips.com/
2) Top Tech Tidbits "Most Clicked Tidbit" Weekly Contest | Week #30 of 52 | This Week's Odds: 1 of 22
Number of votes last week: 25. Number of winners last week: 3. Kate Crohan, Maiia Jeffrey, and Ruchika Sharma. How well do you know adaptive technology? Do you think that you could consistently identify adaptive technology trends if given the opportunity? Well here's your chance. You can now cast your vote each week for the one Tidbit that you believe will receive the most clicks. Get it right more than anyone else each week and you win a $250.00 USD cash prize at the end of the year (December 31st 2021). In addition, there may be opportunities for winners to join our editorial team. The premise is simple and voting is easy. Can you pick the one Tidbit out of each issue that will get the most clicks? If you think you can, or at least would like to try, learn everything there is to know about the contest here and start casting your vote today:Learn More:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/36.html
Vote Now:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/premium-subscribers.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Says Thank You And Farewell To Sponsors Commtech USA and Dolphin | Two Sponsorship Packages Currently Available
Please join all of us here at Tidbits in wishing a fine farewell to Commtech USA and Dolphin who have so very graciously supported the distribution of Top Tech Tidbits for the last 3 and 6 months, respectively. If you look forward to Tidbits every week, it is sponsors like Commtech USA and Dolphin that make it possible. If you would like to join us in supporting Tidbits while enjoying some really incredible marketing benefits, please reach out to our publisher today at: publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️. Or learn more at:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
4) AccessWorld July 2021
Some good, unique information here: "Reading Print with Low Vision," "Supercharge Your Braille Reading for Pleasure and Productivity," "Take a Note: A History of Braille Note Taking," "Product Review: The Brailliant Bi 40X Braille Display from HumanWare," and "Vision Tech: New Research into Glaucoma:"https://www.afb.org/aw/22/7
5) Everything New With Siri in iOS 15: On-Device Processing, Offline Support, Sharing, Improved Context and More
Of course, it isn't official until the official release, but here's what we have to look forward to with Siri come September 2021:https://www.macrumors.com/guide/ios-15-siri/
6) Audio-Based Video Game, The Vale: Shadow of the Crown
This launches August 19th 2021 on PC and Xbox. Here's a YouTube video about it:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zf5sAmloov4
7) Envision YouTube Channel
Find lots of information about the glasses and app, with user stories:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJJd3a37DhFgsRrQhfgiRoA
8) Android Shortcut Supercourse
This is free, not related to TalkBack, but has great potential. A week of email lessons:https://www.androidintel.net/shortcut/?utm_source=jrtweet&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=ss0721
9) FSCast #202
Maybe you don't know FSReader as well as you think, accessible Emoji, financial education and software development:http://traffic.libsyn.com/fscast/FSCast202-July2021.mp3?dest-id=699950
10) Two New NVDA Add-ons
A.) Advanced Phonetic Reading:https://www.dropbox.com/s/q75mnyttr34zjpm/EnhancedPhoneticReading_0.5a2_Gen.nvda-addon?dl=1
B.) Clock:
https://github.com/hkatic/clock/releases/download/v21.07/clock-21.07.nvda-addon
11) Exploring Tech Webinar with David Woodbridge
All about Smart Speakers with and without screens, and some 3rd party devices, on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VXN2fL7YUbs
12) Audiobooks are Books, Too
Is listening to books really reading? This author proves why it is:http://www.blindscholar.com/2021/07/21/audiobooks-are-books-too/
13) Intro to Grade 3 Braille, Braille with JAWS, and Braille in iOS
These are some of the recorded masterclasses available from the Braillists Foundation:https://www.braillists.org/media/
14) Case For Not Using Accessibility Overlays, With Added Privacy Concerns
A.) A lot of accessibility professionals have endorsed or contributed to this document explaining why AccessiBe and similar products harm accessibility efforts:https://overlayfactsheet.com/
B.) This post from respected authority L'onie Watson is clear about the unwelcome privacy consequences of AccessiBe:
https://tink.uk/accessibe-and-data-protection/
15) Using Picture Smart in JAWS and Fusion to Describe Image Files or Pictures on Web Pages
This is a short TikTok video:https://bit.ly/3gZYFrz
16) Game On | 1 New Endorsement | Top Tech Tidbits BVI Technology Game Directory | 10 Games Listed
If you are a blind or visually impaired gamer and you play a game that you would like to tell other blind or visually impaired gamers about, please submit your game to the Top Tech Tidbits BVI Technology Game Directory today. And remember, if you come across a game in the Directory that you agree is awesome, please be sure to endorse it by submitting it yourself so that it moves up the list where more people will notice it:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
17) Paid Research Project | Exploring the Experiences and Needs of People with Visual Impairments in a Kitchen | Closes: August 3rd 2021
The University of Wisconsin-Madison is conducting a research project to explore how blind and low-vision people cook in the kitchen so that we can understand their challenges, and design technologies to support cooking activities. In a study session, we will be observing participants cooking, and interviewing them about their cooking experiences. You may qualify if you are: 18+ years old AND blind or low vision for at least one year AND a US resident. (We can only offer research compensation to US residents for now due to tax requirements. Sorry for that!). We will provide a $15 Amazon gift card per hour as compensation. The study will last about 2 hours, so the total compensation will be $30. If you are interested in our study, please fill in the questionnaire in the link to sign up:https://uwmadison.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_81FUiBOLXrZe8Yu
18) New "SkipTo" Browser Extension Provides Keyboard Navigation to Landmarks and Headings
The "Skip to Landmarks and Headings" browser extension is an assistive technology to support the Bypass Blocks requirement of WCAG by providing keyboard support for viewing and navigating to selected landmarks and headings on any web page. It also provides everyone with a high level outline of the landmarks and headings of a page to quickly scan the content of a web page, including users of screen readers. The SkipTo extension is an open source project and is free for anyone to share or use. The link to the source code can be found on GitHub at: https://github.com/skipto/extension. Shortcut keys to open the SkipTo menu: Windows/Linux: ALT+2. MacOS: Option+2. Your feedback on the extension is important, please email comments to: jongund@illinois.edu. If you like the extension, they encourage you to consider giving it a rating and a review.Chrome Extension URL: https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/skip-to-landmarks-and-hea/fjkpbfcodhflpdildjbmdhhmcoplghgf
Firefox Extension URL: https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/skipto/
19) Orbit Reader 20 Plus Version A1.02.00.09r17 Now Available
For instructions on upgrading the device, please refer to Section 24 of the User Guide (Version 1.5) available on the website at:http://www.orbitresearch.com/support/orbit-reader-20-plus-support/orbit-reader-20-plus-user-guide-downloads/
20) The YouTube Channel of Dr. Denise M. Robinson
A referral from David Goldfield aimed at both students and TVIs. Recent videos include: The Pearl Camera And How to Use It, Math graphics online to word to embosser for screen readers, Geometry using CPM math online and typing math in Word by Boon, Google Slides navigation with screen reader, Electronic books using read aloud for Blind students-with navigation commands and many more:https://www.youtube.com/c/DrDeniseMRobinsontech/videos
21) How to Use Automated Captions for Voice Tweets on Twitter
Twitter rolled out automated captions for voice tweets just a few days ago. Voice tweets is a new feature that was rolled out last year and it faced a lot of criticism after users pointed out Twitter's disinterest in making it accessible for all types of users. For instance, this feature would be difficult to use for people who are visually impaired, deaf, or hard of hearing. To make up for this miss, Twitter recently launched automated captions for all voice tweets:https://gadgets.ndtv.com/how-to/features/twitter-voice-tweets-automated-captions-how-to-ios-step-by-step-guide-2493292
22) Game-Changing iPhone Features That Make Life With a Disability Easier
The accessibility mode may just be the greatest ally in maintaining your autonomy:https://www.greenwichtime.com/business/article/Game-Changing-iPhone-Features-That-Make-Life-With-16340633.php
23) A Controversial Tool Calls Out Thousands of Hackable Websites
PunkSpider is back, and crawling hundreds of millions of sites for vulnerabilities:https://www.wired.com/story/punkspider-web-site-vulnerabilities/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Newton's Carroll Center for the Blind Launches New Career Program
The Screen Reader User Tester Training Program will teach visually impaired adults how to explore, test and report on digital accessibility:https://patch.com/massachusetts/newton/newtons-carroll-center-blind-launches-new-career-program
2) Guide Dog Organizations Partner to Aid People Who are Blind Amid COVID-19
A global pandemic can't stop the Leader Dogs for the Blind from assisting those who are blind or visually impaired, regardless of what country they reside in:https://www.candgnews.com/news/guide-dog-organizations-partner-to-aid-people-who-are-blind-amid-covid19-121262
3) Chemical Modelling With A Sense of Touch
Computational chemist Mona Minkara simulates the molecular dynamics required for lung function and boosts access for visually impaired chemists:https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-021-02042-3
4) 7 Ways New Voting Laws Can Affect People With Disabilities
A July 13th 2021 opinion piece in the Washington Post, by Katrina vanden Heuvel, offered a rare look at a comparatively neglected aspect of the current fight to preserve voting rights: safe, flexible, and accessible voting for people with disabilities. It's a perspective well known in the disability community, but seldom covered as strongly in the "mainstream" press:https://www.forbes.com/sites/andrewpulrang/2021/07/25/7-ways-new-voting-laws-can-affect-people-with-disabilities/?sh=a23e0206289d
5) New Device Could Help Visually Impaired Avoid Obstacles, Research Suggests
Chest-mounted video camera and vibrating wristbands developed by US team reduce collisions by 37% in small study:https://www.theguardian.com/society/2021/jul/22/new-device-could-help-visually-impaired-avoid-obstacles-research-suggests
6) Science Daily: Wearable Devices Can Reduce Collision Risk In Blind And Visually Impaired People
A new randomized trial shows potential for collision-warning devices as an added travel safety measure in addition to a conventional long cane:https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/07/210722112958.htm
7) Say Yes To The Dress: Who is Shaela Warkentin? Meet TLC's blind bride on Instagram
"Say Yes To The Dress" featured the second episode of its brand new season on Saturday, July 24th 2021. The episode took many viewers by surprise as it featured the blind bride, Shaela Warkentin, whom Randy Fenoli and the other store managers assisted to find a bridal gown:https://www.realitytitbit.com/celebrity-gossip-and-news/shaela-warkentin-say-yes-to-the-dress
8) Triple-A Game Publishers Are Finally Taking Accessibility Seriously
Thanks in large part to these developers who are blind:https://builtin.com/design-ux/video-game-accessibility-blind-low-vision
9) New Award-Winning App Helps the Visually Impaired Manage Their Wardrobe
Two Industrial Design students from Carleton University have won an Innovative Designs for Accessibility (IDeA) student competition award from Universities Canada for their concept Closet, a label system that enables people with visual disabilities to independently manage their clothes:https://newsroom.carleton.ca/2021/new-award-winning-app-helps-the-visually-impaired-manage-their-wardrobe/
10) H&M Tops List of Accessible Websites, As Most Retailers Fail to Cater for The Visually Impaired
Clothing retailer H&M's homepage topped the table for accessible websites, registering a perfect score of 100 on Google Lighthouse — the only site to cater for all types of visual impairments:https://internetretailing.net/customer/customer/hm-tops-list-of-accessible-websites-as-most-retailers-fail-to-cater-for-the-visually-impaired-23469
11) Deaf-Blind Swimmer Withdraws From Paralympics After Being Denied Access To Personal Care Assistant
Becca Meyers, a six-time medallist, has been forced to withdraw from the competition after officials denied her access to have her Personal Care Assistant with her in Japan:https://www.sportbible.com/australia/news-deaf-blind-swimmer-becca-meyers-withdraws-from-paralympic-games-20210722
12) Blind Youtube Star Molly Burke Wants To Help Young Disabled People Navigate Wellness
Molly Burke has been on YouTube for six years, sharing her life as a young blind woman to nearly two million people on a regular basis — including daily routines, unique challenge videos and anecdotes about losing her sight as a result of an eye disease called retinitis pigmentosa. With her recent partnership with Schick, however, the 27-year-old aims to do more than to share her life experiences on her platform, but also to use it to make wellness more accessible:https://nz.news.yahoo.com/blind-youtube-molly-burke-wellness-192223773.html
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Now There's a Magazine Website Specifically for You | Hadley Presents
July 23rd 2021 | Dorrie Rush, OE's Chief Content Officer, joins us for a chat about this wonderful online resource chock full of tips for living well with vision loss. You'll find great articles on using tech tools, tips for health and well-being, stories from others living with vision loss, a terrific podcast, and more:https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/now-theres-magazine-website-specifically-you
2) Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther 30: Trail Racing Blind
July 23rd 2021 | Episode 30 of Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther explores what it takes to be a blind ultra-trail race competitor in the 125 km 24-hour Canada Death Race. Ms Lilly describes ten of the world's toughest trail races, and blind trail racer Richard Marsolais explains what it takes to compete. As always, we include low- and high-tech tips on trail racing, and insights on how trail running differs from marathons:https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/episode-30-trail-racing-blind/id1530444764?i=1000529855192
3) Blind Android Users 33 | Lets Socialise and Chat with Developer of Audible Vision
July 24th 2021 | We have lots of extra content on our Youtube channel. We talk about the newly launched onePlus nord2 5g. We then discuss must have apps for all who use social networks. For our spotlight section we have a chat with the developer of Audible vision app. For our app of the week section, we have demo of HalloApp app which is just launched social network app by former WhatsApp employees. For the tip of the week, we show you how to copy paste text on Android:https://blindandroidusers.com/
4) Mosen At Large 140
July 24th 2021 Amazon Echo's new voice, the Apple MagSafe Battery, meet the Optophone, a reading machine invented in the early 1900s and more:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/82950581/amazon-echo-s-new-voice-the-apple-magsafe-battery-meet-the-optophone-a-reading-machine-invented-in-the-early-1900s-and-more
5) That Real Blind Tech Show 45 | ACB 2021 Recap, I'm An Excellent Complainer
July 26th 2021It's an Ed less That Real Blind Tech Show, as Allison and Brian wonder twin powers unite to bring you the latest all new That Real Blind Tech show. Listen in to find out what baffling phrase is setting off Brian's A Lady devices. Strange stuff! We then discuss self flying planes, seriously self flying planes, they are coming, well some of us think sooner than later. Epic Games is back at it, now they are suing google:
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-45-acb-2021-recap-im-an-excellent-complainer
6) Eyes on Success 2131 | MuseScore Music Scoring Software
July 28th 2021MuseScore is a program for creating and sharing musical scores. Despite being open source and free, MuseScore includes many of the features found in commercial programs. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Marc Sabatella, one of the developers, about his work to make MuseScore accessible with a variety of screen readers:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202131.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC): An Educational and Legal Requirement | APH
July 28th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Educators have a legal and ethical responsibility to ensure that students with Visual Impairment, Including Blindness have opportunities to gain skills in the Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC). The ECC refers to nine specialized areas of instruction that form a framework for conducting assessments and planning educational programs for this unique and complex group of students. Attend this webinar to acquire a better understanding?of the ECC and how it reflects a key educational requirement of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act:https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_WE-CJgE_Rw-awpTVYav9Pg
2) In-Depth Look Into BARD (Braille and Audio Recording Download) By Scott Meneely, Reader Advisor at Library of Accessible Media for Pennsylvanians
July 29th 2021 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Come join us for an in-depth look into BARD (Braille and Audio Recording Download). From start to finish, Scott Meneely (reader advisor at Library of Accessible Media for Pennsylvanians) will explain, demonstrate and answer questions. Please register here. An event specific zoom link will be emailed out the evening of Wednesday, July 28. While we will leave the registration form open until 10:30AM EDT the day of the event, we will try to email the link as soon as possible, but cannot guarantee delivery:http://www.nfbp.org/in-depth-bard
3) Mac by the Bit (Session 3): Simple Basic Navigation
July 29th 2021 | 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12AM GMT on July 30th 2021 | Note: Because of the ACB convention, this is the 5th Thursday instead of the 4th as usually scheduled. Mac by the Bit, Session 3 will start with some Basic navigation procedures. Keystrokes, quick nav on and off, and even some familiar gestures, if you use an iPhone that is. Showing you the built in tutorial, users guide, and how to find help on the fly. Time permitting, we may explore an app. Come with your questions ready, and to continue on this journey of learning the Mac from the ground up, Bit by Bit. This next installment of Mac by the Bit is, Thursday July 29th 2021 at 8:00PM EST, 7:00PM EST, 6:00PM MST, and 5:00PM PST. To join at the Scheduled time click here:https://zoom.us/j/91835585918?pwd=QkpvSWpGRWkyREE0Q2l6a1V2YVdwdz09#success
4) Making Life Easier With a Smart Home, Part 1
July 29th 2021 | 5:30PM PT, 6:30PM MT, 7:30PM CT, 8:30PM ET, 12:30AM GMT on July 30th 2021 | This free Mystic Access Zoom event covers advantages and disadvantages of having a Smart Home, and Smart Home appliances for security, comfort and cooking. More to come next month:https://mysticaccess.zoom.us/j/82573154671?pwd=Z1NwbGpSSlk2aUR1cVpEU3Jld05tUT09
5) The Road Ahead: Career Readiness for Students with Multiple Impairments | APH
July 30th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | The employment rate for individuals with visual impairments is approximately 37% and remains relatively unchanged for decades. The Road Ahead webinar series guides educators to move beyond triaged transition planning with the goal of changing the trajectory for all students. Attend this webinar to better understand what is meant by career readiness skills for students with multiple impairments, identify ways to embed skills into everyday routines, and investigate local and statewide resources available to meet student needs:https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Of55cT_SRdKJD7SdufLe0w
6) ParentConnect: A Family Support Group Offered in Partnership with the Virtual Parent Support Group Chicago Lighthouse for the Blind
August 4th 2021 2021 | 4:30PM PT, 5:30PM MT, 6:30PM CT, 7:30PM ET, 11:30PM GMT | APH FamilyConnect and the Chicago Lighthouse are pleased to offer this virtual support group for parents and families of children who are blind or visually impaired. These monthly sessions are for families to to connect with and learn from each other about the joys, challenges, and adventures of raising children with visual impairments and blindness. These sessions are open to families. No ACVREP or professional development credits will not be available. This Family Support Group will meet on the first Wednesday of each month:https://aph.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJ0udumhpzgrH9ClyhlmescdBFWaqKzEj6P8
7) Getting Started with Mantis: Connecting to iOS & Chrome | APH
August 4th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | You have your Mantis Q40, now what? Attend this webinar to learn how to connect your Mantis to your device(s) using one of the available free screen access solutions: VoiceOver (iOS/Apple) or ChromeVox (Chrome OS):https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_7VYaa8wxT5qNtd7DWCKaIw
8) VPAT® 101: Introduction to the Voluntary Product Accessibility Template - TPGi
August 4th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | A Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT) is a great way to document your product's accessibility, but many companies are unaware of their existence and how to use them. Join Accessibility Engineers Brian Elton and Mitchell Evan from TPGi for answers to questions such as: What information is contained in a VPAT? Is a VPAT just for websites? Is every organization required to have one? How can a company secure a VPAT? Is it better to create it in-house or get a third party involved?https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-vpat-101-introduction-to-the-voluntary-product-accessibility-template/
9) Step-By-Step: An Interactive Guide to Mobility Techniques | APH
August 5th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Updated digital instruction is now available for both future O&M Specialists and those currently providing direct services to individuals with visual impairments. Attend this webinar and explore APH's newly revised product, Step-by-Step: A Guide to Mobility Techniques. This interactive computer curriculum provides demonstrations of how mobility skills are performed, visual observation skills used by professionals to spot common performance errors made by new learners who are blind, and methods for correcting errors most efficiently:https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_9bk4Hky6TaGz41QgYcxbVw
10) Flipped Classroom - Building Accessible Word documents and PowerPoints | APH
August 10th 2021 | 1PM PT, 2PM MT, 3PM CT, 4PM ET, 8PM GMT | Let's flip the webinar and use our time wisely! Register and watch two courses, Building Accessible PowerPoints and Building Accessible Word Documents, in the APH Hive and then join us in this meeting to practice working through accessibility assignments together:https://aph.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJYrdu-tqTIsHdeb_niuiM5GenHVLijQcH4q
11) Teaching Screen Readers the Fun Way with Cody Laplante: Part 3 of 4 | APH
August 10th 2021 | 1PM PT, 2PM MT, 3PM CT, 4PM ET, 8PM GMT | It's time to practice those screen reader skills! In part 3 of this 4-part series, join Cody Laplante, founder of eye.t, to learn about creating practice activities for your screen reader lessons. Learn multiple ways to incorporate fun into your practice activities and explore activities that take the intimidation out of learning JAWS, NVDA or Chromevox:https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_CVaXOpgqTa6eKOPypioXQw
12) Introduction to Audio Description from 3Play Media
August 12th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | This webinar will cover the basics of how to add audio description to online video, legal requirements for audio description, video player compatibility, examples and demos, how to create audio description, and benefits of audio description outside of accessibility:https://go.3playmedia.com/wbnr-08-12-2021-ad
13) Technology User Group Helps You Prepare for the Changes Coming to Your iDevice and Computer
August 14th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | On On Saturday, August 14th 2021 the Technology User Group helps you prepare for the changes coming to your iDevice and computer. This September, iOS 15 will be released. Is your phone eligible for the upgrade? What new features can you expect? Is Siri going to have added skills and abilities? Also, we will look at the expected changes to Jaws and Zoomtext as they move toward a new Beta version debuting in October. You do not have to RSVP for this event. The presentation will last about 90 minutes. We look forward to meeting with you virtually and hope that you will join us for other exciting events we have planned for 2021. This presentation will be virtual and may be joined by calling:319-527-4994 📱️
14) 2nd Annual Sight Tech Global 2021
December 1st & 2nd 2021 | 100% free. 100% virtual. Sight Tech Global is the first global, virtual conference dedicated to fostering discussion among technology pioneers on how rapid advances in AI and related technologies will fundamentally alter the landscape of assistive technology and accessibility. Registration is now open:https://sighttechglobal.com/
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https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Humanware Braille Note Touch Plus
Listing Date: 7/8/2021 | Price: $3,000.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: Humanware Notetaker. Includes original retail packaging, braille quick reference, charger, and executive products carrying case. Purchased 7/2019. Warranty until 7/2022. Very gently used. Found I just don't use it like I thought I would. Price negotiable. | Contact: Email kb9zuv@arrl.net 📧️ or call Gary at (765) 286-0314 📱️. |2) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Build A Foundational Understanding Of Construction And Electronics With BRIC: Structures® Access Kit From APH - An Adapted Version Of An Educational Elenco® Product For Students Who Are Blind And Visually Impaired!
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ GuideLights And Gadgets: Post Convention Clearance
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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 Martineau
➜ Voice Training
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: Pneuma Solutions
➜ 3 Easy Steps To Accessible Shared Content For Your Remote Presentations: Rid Digital Darkness For Blind Attendee's Forever!
https://scribeformeetings.com/
Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ VisionAware Resources Including the Directory of Services
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/072920211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ Accessible Pharmacy Joins Be My Eyes
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
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|
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, July 22, 2021 - Volume 816 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, July 22, 2021 - Volume 816
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Top Tech Tidbits. The World's #1 Access Technology Publication. Made Possible by Support From The Following Sponsors:
This issue made possible by sponsorship support from: Dean Martineau @ TopTechTidbits.com, A. T. Guys @ ATGuys.com, Barry Scheur @ GuideLightsAndGadgets.us, American Printing House @ APH.org, LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store @ Adaptations.org, Be My Eyes @ BeMyEyes.com, Dolphin Computer Access @ YourDolphin.com, HumanWare @ HumanWare.com, APH ConnectCenter @ APHConnectCenter.org, Freedom Scientific @ FreedomScientific.com, Commtech USA @ CommtechUSA.net and Pneuma Solutions @ PneumaSolutions.com.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Most Powerful OCR Currently Available for iPhone?: (10.3% of all clicks.)https://www.applevis.com/forum/ios-ipados/most-powerful-ocr-currently-available-iphone
B.) Latest JAWS Tips and Tricks: (9.4% of all clicks.)
http://www.hartgen.org/tips
C.) Do Everything Faster With These Keyboard Tricks: (7.2% of all clicks.)
https://www.wired.com/story/do-everything-faster-keyboard-shortcuts-tricks-tips/
D.) Comprehensive Guide for New VoiceOver Users on the Mac: (4.9% of all clicks.)
https://www.applevis.com/forum/macos-mac-apps/comprehensive-guide-new-voiceover-users
E.) Sending Audio Messages: Personalizing Your Messages Through Settings and Voice: (4.7% of all clicks.)
https://blindabilities.com/?p=6811
2) Top Tech Tidbits Introduces "Most Clicked Tidbit" Weekly Contest | This Week's Odds: 1 of 23
How well do you know adaptive technology? Do you think that you could consistently identify adaptive technology trends if given the opportunity? Well here's your chance. Beginning with this issue of Top Tech Tidbits you can now cast your vote each week for the one Tidbit that you believe will receive the most clicks. Get it right more than anyone else each week and you win a $250.00 USD cash prize at the end of the year (December 31st 2021). In addition, there may be opportunities for winners to join our editorial team. The premise is simple and voting is easy. Can you pick the one Tidbit out of each issue that will get the most clicks? If you think you can, or at least would like to try, learn everything there is to know about the contest here and start casting your vote today:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/36.html
3) iPhone 101 'Sending Audio Messages: Personalizing Your Messages Through Settings and Voice'
This article has been updated, and is part of this ever-growing basic instructional series:https://blindabilities.com/?p=6811
4) Untangling the Terminal: How to Master the MacOS Command Line
Courtesy of MacWorld:https://www.macworld.com/article/350436/macos-terminal-utilities-command-line-files-directories-folders-quick-look.html
5) Clubhouse No Longer Invite-Only
Anybody can join, though there's still a long waiting list:https://9to5mac.com/2021/07/21/clubhouse-no-longer-invite-only-as-waitlist-reportedly-nears-10-million-people/
6) Clubhouse on iOS for Beginners
This is an AppleVis podcast:https://www.applevis.com/podcasts/clubhouse-ios-beginners
7) Keyboard Shortcuts in Office
This appears to be a very comprehensive listing from Microsoft:https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/keyboard-shortcuts-in-office-e765366f-24fc-4054-870d-39b214f223fd
8) Sunrise Waterfall
This is a free website builder, Wordpress blog builder, documentation builder, and FTP client:https://nathantech.net/products/software/sunrisewaterfall.php
9) Screen Reading in 2021
What makes a screen reader stand out in 2021? AMI welcomes Vispero, the company behind JAWS, to talk about screen readers and their place in the modern workplace and home:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PgyeUQ4-S_U
10) Game On | 1 New Endorsement | Top Tech Tidbits BVI Technology Game Directory
If you are a blind or visually impaired gamer and you play a game that you would like to tell other blind or visually impaired gamers about, please submit your game to the Top Tech Tidbits BVI Technology Game Directory today. And remember, if you come across a game in the Directory that you agree is awesome, please be sure to endorse it by submitting it yourself so that it moves up the list where more people will notice it:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
11) Microsoft Announces Windows 365, A Cloud OS You Can Stream
Microsoft brings Windows to the cloud for streaming to any device:https://www.windowscentral.com/microsoft-announces-windows-365-version-windows-you-can-stream-cloud
12) Freedom Scientific Announces End of Installation on Windows 7, 8.x, and Windows Server Prior to 2016
On July 20th 2021 Freedom Scientific announced changes starting with the 2022 software releases, coming in the Q4 of 2021. The 2022 versions of JAWS, ZoomText and Fusion will no longer be compatible with older versions of Windows and will therefore be blocked from installing. Support of these older Operating Systems has already been dropped by Microsoft over the past few years. Customers purchasing Freedom Scientific Software at version 2022 or higher, will still be able to use their license on these older operating systems, however they will be instructed to download and use earlier software versions of JAWS, ZoomText or Fusion:https://support.freedomscientific.com/About/News/Article/216
13) How to Customize Keyboard Shortcuts in Gmail
Courtesy of MakeTechEasier:https://www.maketecheasier.com/customize-keyboard-shortcuts-gmail/
14) Windows 11: Four New Keyboard Shortcuts You Must Learn
If you are already using Windows 11, these are the new shortcuts you need to learn:https://www.windowscentral.com/windows-11-four-new-keyboard-shortcuts
15) How to Order Groceries with Amazon Alexa
A handy use for your digital assistant:https://www.howtogeek.com/735972/how-to-order-groceries-with-amazon-alexa/
16) Blind Accessibility Tips Website
This site contains tutorials on the use of Windows 10 and Microsoft Word along with accessing the Internet. It also offers downloadable tutorials in text and audio format. They also have a Youtube Channel containing some tutorials:https://blindaccessibilitytips.com/
17) Quick Tip: How to More Easily Access ACB Media Streams On An Alexa Device | From David Goldfield
Normally, if you want to play streams from ACB Media on an Alexa device you first need to open the ACB Media skill. Think of a skill being similar to an app on your smart phone or tablet. Because the name of the skill is ACB Media you would normally say, "Open ACB Media." Alexa will verify that the ACB Media skill has been opened and will then ask you to choose a stream from 1 through 10. Once you specify a stream number, such as ACB Media 2, the stream starts. However, once you stop the stream you have to go through the same process all over again to play an ACB Media stream. There is a way to slightly speed up this process. You can just ask Alexa to ask ACB Media to play a specific stream. For example, you could say, "ask ACB Media to play ACB Media 3." You can shorten this even further by just asking for the number, such as "ask ACB Media to play 4." I hope this helps. Happy streaming.https://davidgoldfield.wordpress.com/2021/07/17/quick-tip-how-to-more-easily-access-acb-media-streams-on-an-alexa-device/
18) Twitter Rolls Out Auto Ccaptions for Voice Tweets After Accessibility Backlash
On July 15th 2021 Twitter turned on automated captions for voice tweets on iOS following criticism that the feature, which debuted last year, wasn't accessible to people with disabilities:https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/twitter-rolls-out-auto-captions-for-voice-tweets-after-accessibility-backlash/
19) How To Pair Your Android Phone to A PC Using "Your Phone" App on Windows 10 or Windows 11
This YouTube video comes to us from Blind Android Users: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Brg2H3ND1A&t=20s20) For NVDA Users: New Addon From Joseph Lee For Developers and Power Users: Introducing Event Tracker, An Add-On To Track and Record Information on Events
An event is raised when things happen, such as typing characters, moving system focus, and when notifications are announced. Event Tracker will track these events and will log information such as the control where the event came from, its name and role, app module, and information specific to accessibility API's such as MSAA properties. As this is an add-on designed for developers and power users, it is not really recommended for beginners, and in order to use the add-on, you must be running NVDA in debug logging mode:https://addons.nvda-project.org/addons/evtTracker.en.html
21) Announcing Sight Tech Global 2021
Shortly after the first Sight Tech Global event, in December last year, Apple and Microsoft announced remarkable new features for mobile phones. Anyone could point the phone camera at a scene and request a "scene description." In a flash, a cloud-based, computer vision AI determined what was in the scene and a machine-voice read the information. Learning that "a room contains three chairs and a table" might not seem like a big advance for the sighted, but for blind or visually impaired people, the new feature was a notable milestone for accessibility technology: An affordable, portable and nearly universal device could now "see" on behalf of just about anyone. Technologies like scene description will be on the agenda at the second annual Sight Tech Global event, December 1-2, 2021. The free, sponsor-supported, virtual and global event will convene many of the world's top technologists, researchers, advocates and founders to discuss how rapid advances in technology, many centered on AI, are altering — both improving and complicating — accessibility for people with sight loss. Register today — it's free.https://techcrunch.com/2021/07/15/announcing-sight-tech-global-2021/
22) NV Access In-Process July 16th 2021
The big news this week is the release of NVDA 2021.1:https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-16th-july-2021/
23) Youtube Video: How to Use Microsoft Access With NVDA: Part 1
User Thee Quinn has uploaded the first in a series of videos discussing using Microsoft Access with the NVDA screen reader:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9jWI0YylFU8
24) Reports of Orbit Reader 20 Freezing After Performing Latest Firmware Upgrade
Orbit Research has acknowledged receiving some complaints regarding the Orbit Reader 20 Plus freezing after performing the firmware upgrade with the latest release. They are currently investigating the issue. Meanwhile, they are recommending not to upgrade with this release. If you have experienced this, please call them at (888) 606-7248 📱️ or email them at techsupport@orbitresearch.com 📧️ and they will work with you to restore functionality. They will be posting another release with the fix in a day or two. They offer their sincerest apologies for the inconvenience.➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Digital Accessibility Career Training Breaks Down Barriers to Employment for Persons with Disabilities
To empower the next generation of digital accessibility professionals who are blind or visually impaired, the Carroll Center for the Blind has launched the first-of-its-kind Screen Reader User Tester Training Program that will train adults seeking employment to professionally explore, test, and report about the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files. The program also aims to help lower the 70% unemployment rate for people with vision impairments by advancing opportunities for persons with disabilities to achieve independence through employment:https://carroll.org/news/user-tester-training-program-to-empower-next-generation-of-blind-accessibility-professionals/
2) A Non-Driver's Critique Of CarPlay Shows Accessible Infotainment Systems Help More Than The Driver
As a legally Blind person, Apple's CarPlay has long been one of those offerings from the company that literally is not for me. My low vision precludes me from obtaining a driver's license and, by extension, a car — so what good would CarPlay do me if I can't drive a car with which to use it? I had a similar feeling toward Apple TV for many years. I've only had high-definition televisions at home in the last three years; before then, there was little reason to get excited about (let alone cover) the streaming box and tvOS since I didn't have a TV that could take full advantage of its capabilities:https://www.forbes.com/sites/stevenaquino/2021/07/20/a-non-drivers-critique-of-carplay-shows-accessible-infotainment-systems-help-more-than-the-driver/?sh=60ea61782fb2
3) Colorado First in Nation to Require Web Accessibility for Government
New state law makes it easier for people with disabilities to sue state and local agencies for discrimination:https://coloradonewsline.com/2021/07/20/colorado-first-web-accessibility-government/
4) Wheel the World Launches New Website Featuring Industry-First Accessibility Mapping System for Travelers with Disabilities
Using Wheel the World's mobile app, a network of "mappers" around the world collect and submit information on more than 200 data points to inform site listings for accommodations, tours, attractions and activities:https://www.traveldailynews.com/post/wheel-the-world-launches-new-website-featuring-industry-first-accessibility-mapping-system-for-travelers-with-disabilities
5) A Gadget Helping The Visually Impaired | Video By Bloomberg
Bloomberg's Tech Editor Nate Lanxon always introduces us to the latest gadgets, but this one in particular is a gamechanger. We meet the founder and the tech helping the visually impaired community get around independently and safely:https://www.bloomberg.com/news/videos/2021-07-20/a-gadget-helping-the-visually-impaired-video
6) Benefits of Accessible Games for Older People with Sight Loss
We play games because they're fun! Though of course there are a host of other benefits you might not have considered. From our earliest days, engaging in play enables our brains make new connections. Our bodies learn how to move in different ways, we respond emotionally and our imagination sparks:https://blog.yourdolphin.com/blog/benefits-of-accessible-games
7) How Arturia Made Its Music-Making Software More Accessible. And Where It Can Improve
When visually impaired music producer Jason Dasent decided to buy a collection of instrument plugins from Arturia about four years ago, he did so despite his suspicion that the company's tools wouldn't be accessible. He was right. "At that point I couldn't browse and use the software," he said. "I pretty much couldn't do anything." He had spent some $500 on Arturia's V Collection 5, a set of virtual instruments that included recreations of some vintage synths he wanted to use. It was cheaper than spending hundreds of thousands on actual synths, he told himself:https://www.engadget.com/arturia-analog-lab-v-accessibility-mode-story-music-software-lack-assistive-160013048.html
8) Overdue: FCC Needs to Upgrade Video Relay Services for Deaf Community
The FCC makes a decision on compensation for Video Relay Service (VRS) providers soon. The deadline for comments was July 15, 2021. If VRS providers don't receive adequate compensation, communications access for the deaf and hard of hearing community suffers:https://krisrivenburgh.medium.com/overdue-fcc-needs-to-upgrade-video-relay-services-for-deaf-community-bb604303f7b5
9) Five Ways For Firms to Reach Customers With Disabilities
Increasingly for businesses, factoring in the needs of disabled customers from the start is becoming a crucial part of product development. Yet this huge market - the so-called "Purple pound" - remains largely untapped as many firms are failing to successfully adapt for customers with disabilities:https://news.yahoo.com/five-ways-firms-reach-customers-231324576.html
10) Return to the Workplace Highlights Accessibility Concerns for Disabled Employees
As COVID-19 restrictions loosen and the country settles into a new normal, disability advocates have mixed feelings about the future of the workplace and public health in the U.S:https://www.whio.com/news/business/return-workplace/ZSBRUQTCYAJKW6Y7TQQLALKWVA/
11) Call of Duty: Warzone Season Four Reloaded Accessibility Improvements
The following new features focus on three primary areas of accessibility: Hard of Hearing, Blind/Low-Vision, and Cognitive Overload:https://www.ravensoftware.com/community/2021/07/call-of-duty-bocw-warzone-season-four-reloaded-patch-notes
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) That Real Blind Tech Show 44 | NFB 21 Recap: Be all You Can Be
July 16th 2021We start off discussing the Linuk Foundations launching an open voice network to build an industry wide standard. Leakers are reporting that Lidar will only be available on the iPhone Pro 13 models. Will that affect your decision?
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-44-nfb-21-recap-be-all-you-can-be
2) Blind Android Users 32 | Audio Book Players And Shining the Light on BRLTTY With Dave Mielke
July 17th 2021 | In this episode we talk about audio book apps, then for our in-focus section, we have the developer of BRLTTY, Dave Mielke. In the next segment in commentary screen reader, we see how to create functions to auto play messages in WhatsApp. This week, Karene Kiwan demonstrates the popular ACR Phone Dialler. Our Android Journey story this week comes from Roselina Squeo:https://blindandroidusers.com/
3) Mosen At Large 139
July 17th 2021 The great tech conference with an ableist name, blindness tech support from Microsoft and Apple, scribe for meetings demo and blind ghetto products:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/1e7e0de8/the-great-tech-conference-with-an-ableist-name-blindness-tech-support-from-microsoft-and-apple-scribe-for-meetings-demo-and-blind-ghetto-products
4) Eyes on Success 2130 | Creating Solutions to Solve Problems
July 21st 2021Doug Lee has been blind his entire life. In addition to writing JAWS scripts for Level Access, a firm that develops access solutions for other companies, Doug also freely shares many scripts and tools he has developed to improve access to commonly used programs. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Doug about his life and the tools he shares:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202130.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Word, PowerPoint and PDF Accessibility
July 27th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | The National Federation of the Blind Center of Excellence in Nonvisual Accessibility offers this 90-minute workshop:https://nfb.org/programs-services/center-excellence-nonvisual-access/trainings/accessibility-boutiques/accessibility-boutique-registration
2) New Approaches to Web Accessibility Requirements under WCAG3 from ADASoutheast
July 27th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMThttps://www.adasoutheast.org/eventscalendar.php?eventid=2304
3) ATHEN | Access Technology Higher Education Network Quarterly Meeting
July 28th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Meeting ID: 845 0010 0064 | One tap mobile: +16699006833,,84500100064# US (San Jose) | +12532158782,,84500100064# US (Tacoma) | Meeting ID: 845 0010 0064 | Find your local number at: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kbdyAM9fPT. Join the Zoom Meeting at:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84500100064
4) Mac by the Bit (Session 3): Simple Basic Navigation
July 29th 2021 | 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12AM GMT on July 30th 2021 | Note: Because of the ACB convention, this is the 5th Thursday instead of the 4th as usually scheduled. Mac by the Bit, Session 3 will start with some Basic navigation procedures. Keystrokes, quick nav on and off, and even some familiar gestures, if you use an iPhone that is. Showing you the built in tutorial, users guide, and how to find help on the fly. Time permitting, we may explore an app. Come with your questions ready, and to continue on this journey of learning the Mac from the ground up, Bit by Bit. This next installment of Mac by the Bit is, Thursday July 29th 2021 at 8:00PM EST, 7:00PM EST, 6:00PM MST, and 5:00PM PST. To join at the Scheduled time click here:https://zoom.us/j/91835585918?pwd=QkpvSWpGRWkyREE0Q2l6a1V2YVdwdz09#success
5) In-Depth Look Into BARD (Braille and Audio Recording Download) By Scott Meneely, Reader Advisor at Library of Accessible Media for Pennsylvanians
July 29th 2021 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Come join us for an in-depth look into BARD (Braille and Audio Recording Download). From start to finish, Scott Meneely (reader advisor at Library of Accessible Media for Pennsylvanians) will explain, demonstrate and answer questions. Please register here. An event specific zoom link will be emailed out the evening of Wednesday, July 28. While we will leave the registration form open until 10:30AM EDT the day of the event, we will try to email the link as soon as possible, but cannot guarantee delivery:http://www.nfbp.org/in-depth-bard
6) VPAT® 101: Introduction to the Voluntary Product Accessibility Template - TPGi
August 4th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | A Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT) is a great way to document your product's accessibility, but many companies are unaware of their existence and how to use them. Join Accessibility Engineers Brian Elton and Mitchell Evan from TPGi for answers to questions such as: What information is contained in a VPAT? Is a VPAT just for websites? Is every organization required to have one? How can a company secure a VPAT? Is it better to create it in-house or get a third party involved?https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-vpat-101-introduction-to-the-voluntary-product-accessibility-template/
7) Introduction to Audio Description from 3Play Media
August 12th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | This webinar will cover the basics of how to add audio description to online video, legal requirements for audio description, video player compatibility, examples and demos, how to create audio description, and benefits of audio description outside of accessibility:https://go.3playmedia.com/wbnr-08-12-2021-ad
8) Technology User Group Helps You Prepare for the Changes Coming to Your iDevice and Computer
August 14th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | On On Saturday, August 14th 2021 the Technology User Group helps you prepare for the changes coming to your iDevice and computer. This September, iOS 15 will be released. Is your phone eligible for the upgrade? What new features can you expect? Is Siri going to have added skills and abilities? Also, we will look at the expected changes to Jaws and Zoomtext as they move toward a new Beta version debuting in October. You do not have to RSVP for this event. The presentation will last about 90 minutes. We look forward to meeting with you virtually and hope that you will join us for other exciting events we have planned for 2021. This presentation will be virtual and may be joined by calling:319-527-4994 📱️
9) 2nd Annual Sight Tech Global 2021
December 1st & 2nd 2021 | 100% free. 100% virtual. Sight Tech Global is the first global, virtual conference dedicated to fostering discussion among technology pioneers on how rapid advances in AI and related technologies will fundamentally alter the landscape of assistive technology and accessibility. Registration is now open:https://sighttechglobal.com/
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Humanware Braille Note Touch Plus
Listing Date: 7/8/2021 | Price: $3,000.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: Humanware Notetaker. Includes original retail packaging, braille quick reference, charger, and executive products carrying case. Purchased 7/2019. Warranty until 7/2022. Very gently used. Found I just don't use it like I thought I would. Price negotiable. | Contact: Email kb9zuv@arrl.net 📧️ or call Gary at (765) 286-0314 📱️. |2) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Build A Foundational Understanding Of Construction And Electronics With BRIC: Structures® Access Kit From APH - An Adapted Version Of An Educational Elenco® Product For Students Who Are Blind And Visually Impaired!
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ GuideLights And Gadgets: Post Convention Clearance
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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 Martineau
➜ Voice Training
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: Pneuma Solutions
➜ 3 Easy Steps To Accessible Shared Content For Your Remote Presentations: Rid Digital Darkness For Blind Attendee's Forever!
https://scribeformeetings.com/
Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
Sponsor: Commtech USA
➜ Training to Fit Your Needs
https://commtechusa.net/store
Sponsor Since: April 22nd 2021
Website: https://commtechusa.net/ 🌐
Phone: (833) 345-8324 📱️
About: Commtech USA, a division of Commtech LLC is a Phoenix based national assistive technology company, with locations in Bakersfield CA. We deliver unmatched information technology and assistive technology consultations, training and support. Founded in 2005 as a government vendor fulfilling a vast range of technology needs of federal and state government clients, Commtech USA has expanded to meet the needs of businesses as well as individuals, with office locations across the nation. No issue is too large or too small for our staff, Commtech USA is the on call technology staff you call when you have tried the rest but need the best!
Book an appointment with Commtech.
Meet the Commtech USA Staff in this YouTube video.
Download The App (iOS):
Commtech USA for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Commtech USA for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ VisionAware Resources Including the Directory of Services
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/072220211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ How to Carry Your Mag/Speech AT in Your Pocket with SuperNova USB
https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/support/videos/playlist?id=37&vid=1755
Sponsor Since: January 28th 2021
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Phone (USA & Canada): +1 (866) 797-5921 📱️
Phone (UK, Europe & Asia): +44 01905 754577 📱️
Phone (Nordic & Baltic Contries): +46 0515 82175 📱️
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of GuideConnect
GuideConnect Trial
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of SuperNova
SuperNova Trial
About: Dolphin Computer Access offers a wide array of solutions for students, people in the workforce, and at home who are blind, visually impaired or have dyslexia. Each product is purposefully designed to help users, with varying levels of technology experience, do everyday things EASILY on computers and tablets. Founded in 1986 and located in Worcester England, Dolphin has grown to become a global market leader worldwide.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ Accessible Pharmacy Joins Be My Eyes
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, July 15, 2021 - Volume 815 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, July 15, 2021 - Volume 815
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Top Tech Tidbits. The World's #1 Access Technology Publication. Made Possible by Support From The Following Sponsors:
This issue made possible by sponsorship support from: Dean Martineau @ TopTechTidbits.com, A. T. Guys @ ATGuys.com, Barry Scheur @ GuideLightsAndGadgets.us, American Printing House @ APH.org, LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store @ Adaptations.org, Be My Eyes @ BeMyEyes.com, Dolphin Computer Access @ YourDolphin.com, HumanWare @ HumanWare.com, APH ConnectCenter @ APHConnectCenter.org, Freedom Scientific @ FreedomScientific.com, Commtech USA @ CommtechUSA.net and Pneuma Solutions @ PneumaSolutions.com.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Microsoft Explains The Accessibility Improvements Coming in Windows 11: (9.1% of all clicks.)https://mspoweruser.com/microsoft-accessibility-improvements-windows-11/
B.) iOS 15: Here Are All of the New Accessibility Features Coming to iPhone: (7.3% of all clicks.)
https://9to5mac.com/2021/07/05/ios-15-everything-new-accessibility/
C.) A. T. Guys Releases New Versa Slate Paperless, Erasable Braille Slate and Stylus: (5.3% of all clicks.)
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=34_55&products_id=358
D.) New APH Partnership with HumanWare Leads to Creation of Dynamic Tactile Device: (4.3% of all clicks.)
https://eyewire.news/articles/new-aph-partnership-with-humanware-leads-to-creation-of-dynamic-tactile-device/
E.) New Wearable With Haptic GPS for The Blind is Now Available: (3.9% of all clicks.)
https://coolblindtech.com/new-wearable-with-haptic-gps-for-the-blind-is-now-available/
2) Game On | 2 New Endorsements | Top Tech Tidbits BVI Technology Game Directory
If you are a blind or visually impaired gamer and you play a game that you would like to tell other blind or visually impaired gamers about, please submit your game to the Top Tech Tidbits BVI Technology Game Directory today. And remember, if you come across a game in the Directory that you agree is awesome, please be sure to endorse it by submitting it yourself so that it moves up the list where more people will notice it:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) NV Access Announces The Release of NVDA 2021.1
NV Access is pleased to announce the release of NVDA 2021.1. Full information and download links available at: https://www.nvaccess.org/post/nvda-2021-1/. NVDA 2021.1 includes fixes for languages & for accessing links in Braille. Updates to Unicode CLDR, math & LibLouis, Office, VS & more! Please note add-ons will need to be updated. Please check add-on compatibility for this release at:https://addons.nvda-project.org/addons/nvdacompat.en.html
4) Free HTML and Markdown Editor
Inclusion Code is a Free And Educational HTML and Markdown editor:https://inclusioncode.com/download.html
5) Latest JAWS Tips and Tricks
Hartgen Consultancy posts brief how-tos frequently. Among the latest: Using Find in Microsoft Word, Navigating the Outlook Calendar efficiently, and When You Might Want to Turn Off The Virtual Cursor:http://www.hartgen.org/tips
6) Comprehensive Guide for New VoiceOver Users on the Mac
Here are a couple of free resources:https://www.applevis.com/forum/macos-mac-apps/comprehensive-guide-new-voiceover-users
7) NVDA 2021.1 Available
Here's one place to read about the list of new features:https://webfriendlyhelp.com/new-features-in-nvda-2021-1/
8) Add-ons and Backwards Incompatible NVDA Releases
NVDA add-ons have needed to be updated to work with this new version. Check this page to see which ones have been updated, and perhaps even enhance your ability to use NVDA by installing a new add-on or two:https://addons.nvda-project.org/addons/nvdacompat.en.html
9) Apple AirTag vs Samsung SmartTag Plus vs Tile Pro
The Verge helps us decide which locator to buy:https://www.theverge.com/22570161/apple-airtag-samsung-smarttag-tile-pro-bluetooth-tracker-review-test-comparison
10) Most Powerful OCR Currently Available for iPhone?
These posts from AppleVis might help you decide which app to use:https://www.applevis.com/forum/ios-ipados/most-powerful-ocr-currently-available-iphone
11) Reading with Magnification or OCR
This is the Zoom recording of a webinar from Vision Australia:https://visionaustralia.zoom.us/rec/play/L0fZdBCjFZN9XxjvDehYp0HFiGZ5wHHUILhWUavMlanfwLb05ZmEIs5z3QsZEJGmOkEPZuqTHLXbsETp.xSG-cPgElwssHype?continueMode=true&_x_zm_rtaid=7ZQpFSVyS7u-hmCdrnAUjQ.1626313100905.750bb2c3f2af1cff133e3436b12b2b1d&_x_zm_rhtaid=597
12) Sending Audio Messages: Personalizing Your Messages Through Settings and Voice
This is another of the iPhone 101 series from BlindAbilities:https://blindabilities.com/?p=6811
13) Update From Adi Kushnir of The Elita Group: Information Regarding The Next Generation ElBraille
Adi reports, "I would like to thank everyone who sent feedback and answered my question regarding the next generation ElBraille. This really helped us define an important aspect of the product. We have started working on the next model, and for now, we can say the following: 1. The next generation ElBraille will be a 40 cell device. 2. This device will be a very high performance Windows device, truly equivalent to many high end ultra books, with very powerful specifications and configuration options. 3. This device will run the latest version of Microsoft Windows at the time of release, and will be future proof when it comes to updates. 4. This device will be based on a completely new platform, something that we have not used before, and no one else in this industry does. 5. This device will be a high quality product, taking seriously all the feedback and making sure that there will not be any issues that are present in the current units. 6. An upgrade path will be available for all customers, both for Focus 4th and 5th generation display models. 7. We are aware of the need for a smaller ElBraille, we are looking for the right platform and solutions to make something that will be pleasing. We will update everyone on the possibilities, although it will take a while. Additional information will be provided close to public availability. Thanks for all your feedback and support.14) Accessible Antivirus for Windows and Android | YouTube Video From Nimer Jaber
Recorded July 8th 2021, Nimer Jaber offers a video on his views of a couple of accessible antivirus programs for Windows:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q2q8Nj2VCFk
15) For NVDA Users: Code Factory Eloquence / Vocalizer Addon Now Compatible With NVDA 2021.1
NVDA 2021.1 is available as a release candidate with the final build due for release very soon. This update requires that addons which worked with previous NVDA versions be updated in order to maintain compatibility with this new version of NVDA. Code Factory has now updated their addon which contains the Eloquence voices as well as the Vocalizer voices. You can download the new addon from:https://codefactoryglobal.com/app-store/voices-for-nvda/
16) Do Everything Faster With These Keyboard Tricks
Wanna see me cut and paste a large block of text without formatting? Wanna see me do it again?https://www.wired.com/story/do-everything-faster-keyboard-shortcuts-tricks-tips/
17) For Users of Leasey: New ACB Media Streams Now Incorporated into Leasey
In time for the convention, all 10 of the ACB Radio Streams are now part of LeaseyRadio. You will find them in the Variety category. Just restart JAWS and within a few seconds they will be there for you. Courtesy of Brian Hartgen.18) Supersense Presents Live! A Free Virtual Concert | July 15th 2021 | 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 11PM GMT |
Courtesy of https://blindandroidusers.com/ we learn about this free virtual concert sponsored by Supersense:https://www.supersense.app/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) 17 Companies That Hire Remote Workers And Offer Paid Vacation Perks
FlexJobs wants those looking for a new career to know that the no-vacation normal doesn't have to continue, at least for those working at one of the 17 companies it included in a list of businesses that hire remote and flexible positions and also help foot the bill for travel and time off:https://www.techrepublic.com/article/17-companies-that-hire-remote-workers-and-offer-paid-vacation-perks/#ftag=RSS56d97e7
2) How To Make Online Information About The Heat More Accessible For The Visually Impaired
https://www.kivitv.com/news/how-to-make-online-information-about-the-heat-more-accessible-for-the-visually-impaired3) Visually Impaired Student Becomes a Finalist for the 2021 Braille Challenge
Andy Shen of San Luis Obispo has worked for seven years to become a finalist in the national 2021 Braille Challenge. The Braille Challenge is the only academic competition of its kind in North America and Canada for students who are blind and visually-impaired. It motivates kids in grades 1 through 12 to hone their braille literacy skills:https://www.ksby.com/homepage-showcase/local-visually-impaired-student-becomes-a-finalist-for-the-2021-braille-challenge
4) Around Town Visits Hadley
https://wgntv.com/morning-news/around-town/around-town-visits-hadley-institute-for-the-blind-and-visually-impaired/5) Inclusive Ale: New Cincinnati Beer Can Features Raised Braille
The Cincinnati Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired and West Side Brewing have launched a limited-edition Braille Ale:https://www.wlwt.com/article/inclusive-ale-new-cincinnati-beer-can-features-raised-braille/36969018
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Accessible Pharmacy - Hadley Presents: A Conversation With The Experts
July 9th 2021Learn about a new service that's just launched in 2020 called Accessible Pharmacy. Accessible packaging and labeling and personalized customer support all free of charge to the end consumer, and specifically designed for those with vision impairment:
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/accessible-pharmacy
2) Blind Android Users 31 | Print Baby Print, And A Chat With Shane from Supersense
July 10th 2021 | As we have a large listenership with OnePlus devices we give some news about OnePlus. We demo an app called Mopria Print which supports millions of different printers and will easily let you print over Wi-Fi using your phone. We have a chat with Shane Lowe from Mediate Labs, developers of Supersense. We talk about Supersense. We also talk about ReadBit which is their newest app and will come to android soon. We then demo an app called daily bable:https://blindandroidusers.com/
3) Mosen At Large 138
July 10th 2021 Why we're going podcast-only, what will and won't Apple's Accessibility Team help you with, and blindness employment discussion:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/e50cf8a4/why-we-re-going-podcast-only-what-will-and-won-t-apple-s-accessibility-team-help-you-with-and-blindness-employment-discussion
4) That Real Blind Tech Show 43 | Demo of HBO Max, Audio Description, and How to Utilize the Apple TV App
July 11th 2021It's another spectacularly awesome That Real Blind Tech show demo. Brian flying solo as he demos the HBO Max iOS app accessibility along with how to play Audio Description:
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-43-demo-of-hbo-max-audio-description-and-how-to-utilize-the-apple-tv-app
5) Eyes on Success 2129 | On the Road Again After Covid
July 14th 2021Video calls with a 3 and 5 year old just don't cut it. So hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey decided to take their first big road trip after Covid to see the grandkids in person. Hear about their journey from Colorado to Michigan through the cornfields of Nebraska and Iowa, some of the unusual sights they saw along the way, and more:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202129.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Excel and Powerpoint Power Tips: ACB Community Call: Vispero Presentation
Thursday, July 15th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Join Rachel and Liz for Excel and PowerPoint power tips. Sponsored by Vispero. | One tap mobile: +13126266799,,88275409010# | Phone: (312) 626-6799 📱️ | Webinar ID: 882 7540 9010 | Passcode: 974968:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88275409010?pwd=dlZ1VFozQWlEcHZtSXBBZ25EQzRZdz09
2) Balance: Supports & Tech Training For Blind Adults | The Network of Assistive Technologists (NOAT)
July 16th 2021 | 10:30AM PT, 11:30AM MT, 12:30PM CT, 1:30PM ET, 5:30PM GMT | Join Dr. Deborah Gold, Executive Director of BALANCE for Blind Adults and Doug Poirier, the Assistive Technology Lead at BALANCE. An introduction to BALANCE and their services will be followed by demonstrations and discussions about available tools and training methods for the AT working with those who are blind:https://sites.google.com/noat.ca/events/2021/balance-supports-tech-training-for-blind-adults
3) 2021 ACB Virtual Conference and Convention | Registration Information and Browse Conference and Convention Sessions
July 16th 2021 through July 23rd 2021 Registration is now open. If you wish, you can now browse the seminars, workshops, meetings, programs, and social events that are scheduled before you actually register. Registration will remain open to June 28, 2021, but before you register, there is an important task each of you must undertake if you plan on registering. ACB is moving ever closer to a singular login and password that will apply to all ACB websites and web-based functions. If you intend on registering for the convention this year, please go to https://members.acb.org/ to create your ACB account. Select "CREATE AN ACCOUNT" and complete the profile information requested. You will need to create a new username and password (if you wish, you can use the same username and password you used for past conventions when creating this new account). There is one exception: If you registered for the ACB Holiday Auction in December 2020, you have already created an account and you do not have to do so again. If you have problems or questions regarding this process, please call the Minnesota Finance Office at (612) 332-3242 📱️. You will use this new username and password when you register on or after May 20, 2021. To make sure you receive the most up to date information, subscribe to our convention announce list by sending a blank email to acbconvention+subscribe@acblists.org 📧️ or contact Janet Dickelman, convention coordinator at janet.dickelman@gmail.com 📧️ or by phone at (651) 428-5059 📱️.https://acbconvention.org/?p=61
4) Learn About HumanWare's Braille Products From The Braille Institute
July 20th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | To register or make inquiry, emailBrailleChallenge@BrailleInstitute.org 📧️
5) Accessibility Features to Consider & Avoid When Developing an Accessible Kiosk | TPGi
July 20th 2021 | 7PM PT, 8PM MT, 9PM CT, 10PM ET, 2AM GMT on 7/21 | In this webinar, the TPGi team will interview Peter Jarvis, Senior Executive Vice President and founding Director of Storm Interface. Peter Jarvis will answer questions about what accessibility features should be considered when developing an accessible kiosk, mistakes to avoid, and at which point in your project you should be thinking about the proper assistive technology components:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-july-20-accessibility-feature-consider-developing-accessible-kiosk/
6) Accessibility Features to Consider & Avoid When Developing an Accessible Kiosk from TPGi
July 20th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMThttps://www.tpgi.com/webinar-july-20-accessibility-feature-consider-developing-accessible-kiosk/
7) Reading and Vision Accessibility in Your Pocket from PHP
July 20th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMThttps://www.pacer.org/workshops/
8) New Approaches to Web Accessibility Requirements under WCAG3 from ADASoutheast
July 27th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMThttps://www.adasoutheast.org/eventscalendar.php?eventid=2304
9) ATHEN | Access Technology Higher Education Network Quarterly Meeting
July 28th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Meeting ID: 845 0010 0064 | One tap mobile: +16699006833,,84500100064# US (San Jose) | +12532158782,,84500100064# US (Tacoma) | Meeting ID: 845 0010 0064 | Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kbdyAM9fPT Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84500100064
10) Technology User Group Helps You Prepare for the Changes Coming to Your iDevice and Computer
August 14th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | On On Saturday, August 14th 2021 the Technology User Group helps you prepare for the changes coming to your iDevice and computer. This September, iOS 15 will be released. Is your phone eligible for the upgrade? What new features can you expect? Is Siri going to have added skills and abilities? Also, we will look at the expected changes to Jaws and Zoomtext as they move toward a new Beta version debuting in October. You do not have to RSVP for this event. The presentation will last about 90 minutes. We look forward to meeting with you virtually and hope that you will join us for other exciting events we have planned for 2021. This presentation will be virtual and may be joined by calling:319-527-4994 📱️
➜ Surveys
1) Blind and Low-Vision Adults Needed for Survey of User Experiences with Food Delivery Apps
Close Date: July 15th 2021 | Calling all blind and low-vision volunteers age 18 and older. Do you often encounter difficulties when ordering takeout food through food delivery apps and having the food delivered? Would you like to describe your challenges with these apps and food delivery and provide suggestions to improve your experience? Come to tell us about your experience. We are researchers from the Rochester Institute of Technology and currently we are conducting a survey to investigate the user experience, challenges, and workarounds of food delivery apps, like UberEats, DoorDash, and GrubHub by people with low-vision or blindness. In the survey, you will be asked your user experience with food delivery apps, and some questions about your background. The survey will take about 5-10 minutes:https://rit.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8ArN1YFP1HAvMeW
2) Paid Opportunity to Participate in a Research Study: Studying Tools to Manage and Share Pictures
Close Date: July 16th 2021 | We are a group of researchers at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. We are conducting research to help blind people and people with visual impairments (BVI people) share pictures to social media free of private and sensitive information. We have designed a mobile App to let BVI users screen private and sensitive information of their about-to-share pictures using artificial intelligence (AI) and human effort. Participants must be 18 years of age or older to participate in this research study. Those who complete the study will receive a $20 compensation and $10 for exit interview. Learn more here:https://ischoolillinois.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0vVmhfJViHruycS
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Humanware Braille Note Touch Plus
Listing Date: 7/8/2021 | Price: $3,000.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: Humanware Notetaker. Includes original retail packaging, braille quick reference, charger, and executive products carrying case. Purchased 7/2019. Warranty until 7/2022. Very gently used. Found I just don't use it like I thought I would. Price negotiable. | Contact: Email kb9zuv@arrl.net 📧️ or call Gary at (765) 286-0314 📱️. |2) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ GuideLights And Gadgets: Specials During ACB Convention Week and Throughout July 2021
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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 Martineau
➜ Voice Training
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: Pneuma Solutions
➜ 3 Easy Steps To Accessible Shared Content For Your Remote Presentations: Rid Digital Darkness For Blind Attendee's Forever!
https://scribeformeetings.com/
Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
Sponsor: Commtech USA
➜ Training to Fit Your Needs
https://commtechusa.net/store
Sponsor Since: April 22nd 2021
Website: https://commtechusa.net/ 🌐
Phone: (833) 345-8324 📱️
About: Commtech USA, a division of Commtech LLC is a Phoenix based national assistive technology company, with locations in Bakersfield CA. We deliver unmatched information technology and assistive technology consultations, training and support. Founded in 2005 as a government vendor fulfilling a vast range of technology needs of federal and state government clients, Commtech USA has expanded to meet the needs of businesses as well as individuals, with office locations across the nation. No issue is too large or too small for our staff, Commtech USA is the on call technology staff you call when you have tried the rest but need the best!
Book an appointment with Commtech.
Meet the Commtech USA Staff in this YouTube video.
Download The App (iOS):
Commtech USA for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Commtech USA for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ VisionAware Resources: VisionAware Resources Including the Information and Referral Line
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/071520211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ How to Carry Your Mag/Speech AT in Your Pocket with SuperNova USB
https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/support/videos/playlist?id=37&vid=1755
Sponsor Since: January 28th 2021
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Phone (USA & Canada): +1 (866) 797-5921 📱️
Phone (UK, Europe & Asia): +44 01905 754577 📱️
Phone (Nordic & Baltic Contries): +46 0515 82175 📱️
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of GuideConnect
GuideConnect Trial
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of SuperNova
SuperNova Trial
About: Dolphin Computer Access offers a wide array of solutions for students, people in the workforce, and at home who are blind, visually impaired or have dyslexia. Each product is purposefully designed to help users, with varying levels of technology experience, do everyday things EASILY on computers and tablets. Founded in 1986 and located in Worcester England, Dolphin has grown to become a global market leader worldwide.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ Accessible Pharmacy Joins Be My Eyes
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Build A Foundational Understanding Of Construction And Electronics With BRIC: Structures® Access Kit From APH - An Adapted Version Of An Educational Elenco® Product For Students Who Are Blind And Visually Impaired!
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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.
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, July 8, 2021 - Volume 814 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, July 8, 2021 - Volume 814
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Top Tech Tidbits. The World's #1 Access Technology Publication. Made Possible by Support From The Following Sponsors:
This issue made possible by sponsorship support from: Dean Martineau @ TopTechTidbits.com, A. T. Guys @ ATGuys.com, Barry Scheur @ GuideLightsAndGadgets.us, American Printing House @ APH.org, LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store @ Adaptations.org, Be My Eyes @ BeMyEyes.com, Dolphin Computer Access @ YourDolphin.com, HumanWare @ HumanWare.com, APH ConnectCenter @ APHConnectCenter.org, Freedom Scientific @ FreedomScientific.com, Commtech USA @ CommtechUSA.net and Pneuma Solutions @ PneumaSolutions.com.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Windows 11: Release Date, Price, and Everything You Need To Know: (9.4% of all clicks.)https://www.windowscentral.com/windows-11
B.) Using Your Amazon Echo Alexa to Join Zoom Meetings: (6.6% of all clicks.)
https://iabilityi.com/using-your-amazon-echo-alexa-to-join-zoom-meetings/uncategorized/
C.) The Most Important New Features in Windows 11: (5.8% of all clicks.)
https://www.wired.com/story/most-important-things-microsoft-announcement-windows-11-android-apps/
D.) How to Check if Your Windows 10 PC Can Run Windows 11: (5.5% of all clicks.)
https://www.howtogeek.com/737021/how-to-check-if-your-windows-10-pc-can-run-windows-11/
E.) WebAIM: Screen Reader User Survey #9 Results: (4.9% of all clicks.)
https://webaim.org/projects/screenreadersurvey9/
2) Game On | 2 New Endorsements | Top Tech Tidbits BVI Technology Game Directory
Tidbits readers need your help. They want to know what games they should be playing. And not just for accessibility, but for pure enjoyment. If you are a blind or visually impaired gamer and you play a game that you would like to tell other blind or visually impaired gamers about, please submit your game to the Top Tech Tidbits BVI Technology Game Directory today. And remember, if you come across a game in the Directory that you agree is awesome, be sure to endorse it by submitting it yourself so that it moves up the list where more people will notice it:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) New APH Partnership with HumanWare Leads to Creation of Dynamic Tactile Device
American Printing House for the Blind (APH) has announced the development of a multiline braille tactile reader that aims to revolutionize braille technology for the visually impaired. The device, which combines tactile images and braille, is being created through a partnership with HumanWare, a leader in the field of access technology with a 30-year history of creating products for people who are blind or visually impaired. The device will utilize both APH's and HumanWare's vast experience in the development of educational products:https://eyewire.news/articles/new-aph-partnership-with-humanware-leads-to-creation-of-dynamic-tactile-device/
4) A. T. Guys Releases New Versa Slate Paperless, Erasable Braille Slate and Stylus
This item is brand new and available for preorder. We hope to ship by July 10th 2021. The Versa Slate is a braille slate that is paperless and erasable. It works just like a regular slate and stylus, but without paper. It features 4 rows of 20 cells each, and a magnetic stylus that is built into the side of the unit for easy storage. The Versa functions like any other braille slate, but without the need for paper. Simply use the included stylus to make braille, and flip over the slate to read it. When you want to clear all or part of the slate, press one of the buttons. The slate has 4 buttons along the top and bottom of the reading side of the unit. Each button erases 5 of the 20 cells of the unit:https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=34_55&products_id=358
5) Microsoft Explains The Accessibility Improvements Coming in Windows 11
Last week Microsoft explained the Accessibility improvements coming in Windows 11. You can try out these new improvements in the Windows 11 Preview Build 22000.51 which was released early this week to Windows Insiders. You can find the summary of the accessibility improvements here:https://mspoweruser.com/microsoft-accessibility-improvements-windows-11/
6) Accessibility Improvements Coming to Visual Studio
Microsoft is looking to improve the accessibility of its flagship IDE with features such as audio cues, whitespace rendering controls, and a focus mode for eliminating notifications and other distractions:https://www.infoworld.com/article/3623821/accessibility-improvements-coming-to-visual-studio.html
7) Readbit: A New App From the Makers of Supersense
ReadBit is a free text-to-speech reader app created to offer you an insightful reading and listening experience while saving you lots of time and energy. And that's not all. Its smart algorithms summarize and even analyze the text to provide you the most relevant information without having to read hundreds of pages. ReadBit can turn any document, weblink, or image into a high-quality audio file. You can personalize the reading screen and choose the background color and the font according to your needs:https://apps.apple.com/us/app/readbit-text-pdf-reader/id1545366628
8) Sunu Band and BlindSquare Join Forces for Enhanced Accessibility
Sunu Band and BlindSquare have joined forces to improve accessible navigation together. Pairing these two technologies will offer reliable BlindSquare-driven GPS navigation to direct users where they're intending, while also issuing safety measures through the Sunu Band to alert users of oncoming obstacles:https://www.blindsquare.com/2021/06/30/sunu-band-x-blindsquare-join-forces-for-enhanced-accessibility/
9) NVDA 2021.1RC1 Available for Testing
The Release Candidate (RC) of NVDA 2021.1 is now available for download and testing. We encourage all users to download this RC and provide feedback. Unless any critical bugs are found, this will be identical to the final 2021.1 release:https://www.nvaccess.org/post/nvda-2021-1rc1/
10) NV Access In-Process July 2021
NVDA 2021.1 Release Candidate, Last Chance at the NVDA Satisfaction Survey 2021, Windows 11 and more:https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-1st-july-2021/
11) Freedom Scientific on TikTok
Another social medium where you can find FS:https://www.tiktok.com/@freedomscientific?
12) The ABC's of iOS: A VoiceOver Manual for Toddlers and Beyond!
This free manual provides parents and educators with the age-appropriate information they need to teach a child how to interact with an iPad using VoiceOver:https://cnib.ca/en/abcs-ios-manual?region=on
13) JAWS Alert Manager for Manging Busy Zoom Meetings
This post explains how Doug Lee uses his JAM scripts to manage Zoom meetings:https://t.me/dlee_code/151
14) Hey Siri! What Can You Do?
A thorough discussion of Siri, part of the iPhone 101 series:https://blindabilities.com/?p=6793
15) iOS Versus Android. Why iOS is Better
There are some well-reasoned thoughts among the many posts in this thread:https://www.applevis.com/forum/ios-ipados/ios-versus-android-why-ios-better
16) AppleVis Unlimited: What's New and Noteworthy for June 2021
https://www.applevis.com/newsletter/applevis-unlimited-whats-new-and-noteworthy-june-202117) Winaero Tweaker 1.20 is Out With Windows 11 Support and Tons of New Features
https://winaero.com/winaero-tweaker-1-20-is-out-with-windows-11-support-and-tons-of-new-features/18) Windows 11's Security Push Puts Microsoft on a Collision Course
The minimum hardware requirements for Microsoft's next operating system will leave plenty of PCs stranded:https://www.wired.com/story/windows-11-hardware-requirements-security/
19) New Keyboard Shortcuts in Windows 11
Windows 11 comes with many new features and improvements, among which there are several new keyboard shortcuts. So far, Microsoft released only one official preview build, so in the future, the list of new keyboard shortcuts in Windows 11 may expand:https://winaero.com/new-keyboard-shortcuts-in-windows-11/
20) New Wearable With Haptic GPS for The Blind is Now Available
An early prototype of the Wayband first appeared at the 2017 New York Marathon, where Simon Wheatcroft put the product to the test and became the first blind runner to run a portion of the course without assistance. Developed by WearWorks, the Wayband has the potential to empower the visually impaired to live a life less constrained by their disability. With real-time feedback on their surroundings, they can more easily explore new areas of their city and break up routines:https://coolblindtech.com/new-wearable-with-haptic-gps-for-the-blind-is-now-available/
21) iOS 15: Here Are All of the New Accessibility Features Coming to iPhone
9to5 Mac breaks it down for us:https://9to5mac.com/2021/07/05/ios-15-everything-new-accessibility/
22) Recording | YouTube | Stay Organized and Read Books on the Brailliant BI 20 and 40 X Braille Displays | Webinar from Humanware | June 16th 2021
This webinar discusses how to use the file manager on the new Brailliant Braille displays as well as how to use its built-in Victor Reader app to read content. NFB Newsline is demonstrated on this video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jJIJbzQkoP0&t=103s
23) Recording | YouTube | Connecting the Dots: Intro to Refreshable Braille Displays | Webinar from APH | July 2nd 2021
We help you connect the dots! Join braille product expert William Freeman for this in-depth exploration of refreshable braille displays. We cover the very basics from using local apps to an introduction of using a braille display with the most popular screen readers. You'll also learn how to select an appropriate display for your student and troubleshoot common issues:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=awK65MHHu14
24) Meet Vicki! The Wonderful BrailleSense 6!
Here we have Brian Hartgen's review of the HIMS BrailleSense 6:https://hartgen-home.org/vicki
25) How to use the Accessibility Checker in Microsoft Office
The Accessibility Checker is a feature in Microsoft Office programs that ensure that your Microsoft content is easy to read and edit by people of all abilities. The Accessibility Checker is available in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, OneNote, and PowerPoint:https://www.thewindowsclub.com/accessibility-checker-in-microsoft-office
26) Microsoft: Accessibility Is A Focus in Windows 11
The company has previously emphasized specific areas that Windows 11 is targeting in terms of improvements, including security. Now, it has detailed that the operating system itself is also being designed with accessibility in mind:https://www.neowin.net/news/microsoft-accessibility-is-a-focus-in-windows-11/
27) What's Coming in Windows 11 Accessibility
According to this article from the Windows Blog Windows 11 will be the most inclusively designed version of Windows ever. Here's how:https://blogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/2021/07/01/whats-coming-in-windows-11-accessibility/
28) Microsoft is Redesigning the Office Desktop Apps for Windows 11
With Windows 11 coming later this year, Microsoft decided it was a good idea to revamp the Office desktop apps, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, and Outlook. Although the redesign is being made in alignment with the Windows 11 release, Windows 10 will also support it:https://www.techspot.com/news/90241-microsoft-redesigning-office-desktop-apps-windows-11.html
29) Announcing the LibreOffice Getting Started Guide 7.1
Covering all LibreOffice modules, from the Calc spreadsheet to the Base database and including chapters on the suite settings as well as macro coding, the Getting Started Guide 7.1 is a valuable companion for organizations that must deploy documentation on LibreOffice together with the software suite at their offices as well as at user's homes. The Guide is available in PDF format and is part of the LibreOffice Library, a set of advanced guides for the LibreOffice productivity suite:https://blog.documentfoundation.org/blog/2021/07/01/announcing-the-libreoffice-getting-started-guide-7-1/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart Ups the Ante on Accessibility
Insomniac Games' new banner title shows what developers can do to make games more inclusive:https://www.wired.com/story/ratchet-and-clank-insomniac-sony-accessibility/
2) TikTok, LinkedIn, and Retail Apps are Inaccessible to Many Blind Users, and Courts Aren't Fixing the Problem
The Americans With Disabilities Act, passed in 1990, was meant to give people with disabilities access to public life. But the Justice Department, which makes ADA regulations, has not definitively said what standards businesses must meet online. In two recent cases, federal appeals courts have said that some apps and websites don't need to be fully accessible since Congress didn't specifically include them in the ADA:https://bbg.life/index.php/2021/06/30/tiktok-linkedin-and-retail-apps-are-inaccessible-to-many-blind-users-and-courts-arent-fixing-the-problem/
3) The Codes Helping Visually-Impaired People Shop in the UK
A new, colourful kind of barcode technology, developed by a Spanish firm, is being adopted for the first time in food packaging in the UK:https://www.bbc.com/news/business-57679943
4) How to Subscribe to Library of Congress Newsletters
A few of these relate to blindness, but most concern other collections and services from the venerable Library.:https://service.govdelivery.com/accounts/USLOC/subscriber/topics
5) National Disability Leadership Alliance (NDLA) Urges National Park Service to Meet Disability Mandates
NDLA is a coalition of leading national disability organizations led by people with disabilities and supported by grassroots constituencies living with disabilities in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Member organizations have joined forces because the disability community has already waited too long for equal access and federal agencies have not met their federally mandated obligations for accessibility. The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities by any program or activity that receives federal funding:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/national-disability-leadership-alliance-ndla-urges-national-park-service-to-meet-disability-mandates-301323944.html
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) ATU526 - Supersense App with Shane Lowe
June 25th 2021Your weekly dose of information that keeps you up to date on the latest developments in the field of technology designed to assist people with disabilities and special needs. Special Guest: Shane Lowe — Community Operations Manger for Mediate:
https://www.eastersealstech.com/2021/06/25/atu526-supersense-app-with-shane-lowe/
2) Blind Android Users 30 | 4th of July Special, Podcast Clients and Pramit from Louie Voice Control
July 3rd 2021 | In this episode we demo google podcast and pocket cast. We also talk about Podcast Addict, and remind you that other media apps can play podcasts, such as TuneIn Radio, Spotify and Amazon Music. We then have an interview with Pramit Bhargava, developer of Louie voice control, they also demo the app. Then we have the next segment of Commentary screen reader in which we explore some more features and answer listener questions:https://blindandroidusers.com/
3) That Real Blind Tech Show 42 | Trendsetters, A Conversation With David Woodbridge
July 4th 2021Allison and Brian present another in our Trendsetters series as they welcome Sir David Woodbridge in to the That Real Blind Tech show virtual studio. For those of you who follow assistive technology, David Woodbridge needs no introduction, so we have a little fun with our intro:
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-42-trendsetters-a-conversation-with-david-woodbridge
4) Parallel #54 Indoor Navigation: We're Working on the Sighted Experience
July 6th 2021 Tech-assisted navigation means more than using your phone or other GPS-equipped device to find your way outside. Improving indoor navigation has long been a project for people with blindness and low vision, but its importance is growing for venues and tech companies, too:https://www.relay.fm/parallel/54
5) Eyes on Success 2128 | Tools for Blind Scientists
July 7th 2021The more tools one has in one's toolbox the better one will be prepared to take on new tasks and address new problems. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Mona Minkara, Assistant Professor of Bioengineering at Northeastern University about the extensive set of tools she has collected and used over the years to compensate for her blindness:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202128.htm
6) Mosen At Large 137
July 7th 2021 Work with superb-quality remote audio. Meet Cleanfeed:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/cbeac2b5/work-with-superb-quality-remote-audio-meet-cleanfeed
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) How To Fully Utilize Clubhouse, Facebook and Zoom | Technology User Group
July 10th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | On Saturday, July 10th 2021, the Technology User Group prepares you to fully utilize Clubhouse Facebook and Zoom. Whether you attend Zoom meetings or pursue other avenues of socialization, we all want to share and enjoy the benefits that Zoom, Clubhouse and Facebook can bring. Unmuting a microphone at the wrong time or posting in the wrong edit field can be a humbling experience. Please join us as we help you to avoid mistakes and transform you into a master of your social universe. The presentation will be virtual and may be joined by calling (319) 527-4994 📱️. You do not have to RSVP for this event. The presentation will begin at 10:00 AM ET and last about 90 minutes. We look forward to meeting with you virtually on Saturday, July 10th, and hope that you will join us for other exciting events we have planned for 20212) JAWS and Braille: a Closer Look
July 13th 2021 | 11:30AM PT, 12:30PM MT, 1:30PM CT, 2:30PM ET, 6:30PM GMT | In our session on "Using Braille on Windows" back in January, we introduced you to the basics of making a braille display work with various screen readers. On Tuesday, we'll be taking this to the next level in the first of an occasional series of Masterclasses looking at the braille settings of a particular screen reader. This time it's JAWS. There are lots of settings and we won't be able to cover all of them in an hour, so instead we'll be reviewing some of the most common questions we're asked, finding the settings that relate to them, and explaining what they do. If you've registered for our second series of Masterclasses (from April onwards), you don't need to register again. You will receive a separate email with joining information before the session starts. Otherwise, to register for our session on braille and JAWS, please use this link:https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYpcO-sqzktG9TvgYRqSttK4_cqV7zNAiby
3) Zoom Meeting with Orbit Research
July 14th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | The monthly Zoom meeting with Orbit Research:https://tamu.zoom.us/j/96146329927?pwd=a2M1QzFEMFhFMmY3c0t0ZGRvaW1Vdz09
4) Important Aspects of PDF Remediation | TPGi
July 14th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | PDFs and other electronic documents are essential elements for online communication. As we strive to create an accessible digital experience for all users, we must not neglect the electronic documents hosted on websites. Ensuring such documents are accessible is a critical aspect of a comprehensive, accessible experience. Our introductory webinar will provide a high-level overview of how to remediate electronic documents (specifically PDFs) for accessibility. We will review the fundamental concepts of PDF remediation and techniques that you can implement in your documents upon completion of the webinar. A live Q & A will follow the presentation:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-july-14-important-aspects-of-pdf-remediation/
5) Moving Forward: Access to Inclusive Fitness Equipment | United States Access Board
July 14th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | The U.S. Access Board invites the public to a virtual meeting on advancing access to fitness equipment on July 14th 2021 from 1:00 PM - 3:15 PM ET. The event, "Moving Forward: Access to Inclusive Fitness Equipment," will feature panel presentations on the need for access to fitness equipment, initiatives to address equipment accessibility, and implementation of inclusive fitness equipment. Scheduled panelists include representatives from the National Center on Health, Physical Activity and Disability, the American Council for the Blind, Mobility Fitness, the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America, ASTM International, Universal Fitness Innovation & Transformation, Ability 360, I Design Access, and equipment manufacturers. They will discuss the importance of access to exercise equipment, resources and initiatives to promote inclusive design of equipment, and examples of inclusive equipment and fitness centers. The event is free, but registration is required. The event will include video remote interpreting (VRI) and real-time captioning. For further information, visit the Board's website. Direct questions to Rose Marie Bunales at events@access-board.gov 📧️. Registration (Free):https://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_ZMxz1SE1SOKF60tEi_2smg
6) 2021 ACB Virtual Conference and Convention | Registration Information and Browse Conference and Convention Sessions
July 16th 2021 through July 23rd 2021 Registration is now open. If you wish, you can now browse the seminars, workshops, meetings, programs, and social events that are scheduled before you actually register. Registration will remain open to June 28, 2021, but before you register, there is an important task each of you must undertake if you plan on registering. ACB is moving ever closer to a singular login and password that will apply to all ACB websites and web-based functions. If you intend on registering for the convention this year, please go to https://members.acb.org/ to create your ACB account. Select "CREATE AN ACCOUNT" and complete the profile information requested. You will need to create a new username and password (if you wish, you can use the same username and password you used for past conventions when creating this new account). There is one exception: If you registered for the ACB Holiday Auction in December 2020, you have already created an account and you do not have to do so again. If you have problems or questions regarding this process, please call the Minnesota Finance Office at (612) 332-3242 📱️. You will use this new username and password when you register on or after May 20, 2021. To make sure you receive the most up to date information, subscribe to our convention announce list by sending a blank email to acbconvention+subscribe@acblists.org 📧️ or contact Janet Dickelman, convention coordinator at janet.dickelman@gmail.com 📧️ or by phone at (651) 428-5059 📱️.https://acbconvention.org/?p=61
7) Accessibility Features to Consider & Avoid When Developing an Accessible Kiosk | TPGi
July 20th 2021 | 7PM PT, 8PM MT, 9PM CT, 10PM ET, 2AM GMT on 7/21 | In this webinar, the TPGi team will interview Peter Jarvis, Senior Executive Vice President and founding Director of Storm Interface. Peter Jarvis will answer questions about what accessibility features should be considered when developing an accessible kiosk, mistakes to avoid, and at which point in your project you should be thinking about the proper assistive technology components:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-july-20-accessibility-feature-consider-developing-accessible-kiosk/
➜ Surveys
1) Blind and Low-Vision Adults Needed for Survey of User Experiences with Food Delivery Apps
Close Date: July 15th 2021 | Calling all blind and low-vision volunteers age 18 and older. Do you often encounter difficulties when ordering takeout food through food delivery apps and having the food delivered? Would you like to describe your challenges with these apps and food delivery and provide suggestions to improve your experience? Come to tell us about your experience. We are researchers from the Rochester Institute of Technology and currently we are conducting a survey to investigate the user experience, challenges, and workarounds of food delivery apps, like UberEats, DoorDash, and GrubHub by people with low-vision or blindness. In the survey, you will be asked your user experience with food delivery apps, and some questions about your background. The survey will take about 5-10 minutes:https://rit.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8ArN1YFP1HAvMeW
2) Paid Opportunity to Participate in a Research Study: Studying Tools to Manage and Share Pictures
Close Date: July 16th 2021 | We are a group of researchers at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. We are conducting research to help blind people and people with visual impairments (BVI people) share pictures to social media free of private and sensitive information. We have designed a mobile App to let BVI users screen private and sensitive information of their about-to-share pictures using artificial intelligence (AI) and human effort. Participants must be 18 years of age or older to participate in this research study. Those who complete the study will receive a $20 compensation and $10 for exit interview. Learn more here:https://ischoolillinois.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0vVmhfJViHruycS
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Humanware Braille Note Touch Plus
Listing Date: 7/8/2021 | Price: $3,000.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: Humanware Notetaker. Includes original retail packaging, braille quick reference, charger, and executive products carrying case. Purchased 7/2019. Warranty until 7/2022. Very gently used. Found I just don't use it like I thought I would. Price negotiable. | Contact: Email kb9zuv@arrl.net 📧️ or call Gary at (765) 286-0314 📱️. |2) FOR SALE: One Focus 14 Blue 5th Gen Braille Display
Listing Date: 6/17/2021 | Price: $600.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: One gently used 14-Cell Bluetooth Braille Display in excellent condition. | Contact: larry.lewis@flying-blind.com 📧️ |3) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: A. T. Guys
➜ Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub
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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 📱️.
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➜ Voice Training
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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About: Dean Martineau is the Founder and a Contributing Editor to the Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter.
Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions
➜ 3 Easy Steps To Accessible Shared Content For Your Remote Presentations: Rid Digital Darkness For Blind Attendee's Forever!
https://scribeformeetings.com/
Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
Sponsor: Commtech USA
➜ Training to Fit Your Needs
https://commtechusa.net/store
Sponsor Since: April 22nd 2021
Website: https://commtechusa.net/ 🌐
Phone: (833) 345-8324 📱️
About: Commtech USA, a division of Commtech LLC is a Phoenix based national assistive technology company, with locations in Bakersfield CA. We deliver unmatched information technology and assistive technology consultations, training and support. Founded in 2005 as a government vendor fulfilling a vast range of technology needs of federal and state government clients, Commtech USA has expanded to meet the needs of businesses as well as individuals, with office locations across the nation. No issue is too large or too small for our staff, Commtech USA is the on call technology staff you call when you have tried the rest but need the best!
Book an appointment with Commtech.
Meet the Commtech USA Staff in this YouTube video.
Download The App (iOS):
Commtech USA for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Commtech USA for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ VisionAware Resources: The Reader's Digest Getting Started Guide to Vision Loss
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/070820211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ How to Use Hot Keys to Work Across Multiple Monitors in SuperNova
https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/support/videos/playlist?id=14&vid=1073
Sponsor Since: January 28th 2021
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Phone (USA & Canada): +1 (866) 797-5921 📱️
Phone (UK, Europe & Asia): +44 01905 754577 📱️
Phone (Nordic & Baltic Contries): +46 0515 82175 📱️
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of GuideConnect
GuideConnect Trial
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of SuperNova
SuperNova Trial
About: Dolphin Computer Access offers a wide array of solutions for students, people in the workforce, and at home who are blind, visually impaired or have dyslexia. Each product is purposefully designed to help users, with varying levels of technology experience, do everyday things EASILY on computers and tablets. Founded in 1986 and located in Worcester England, Dolphin has grown to become a global market leader worldwide.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ Accessible Pharmacy Joins Be My Eyes
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Build A Foundational Understanding Of Construction And Electronics With BRIC: Structures® Access Kit From APH - An Adapted Version Of An Educational Elenco® Product For Students Who Are Blind And Visually Impaired!
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ GuideLights and Gadgets: Exciting Convention Specials, More Next Week
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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!
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, July 1, 2021 - Volume 813 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, July 1, 2021 - Volume 813
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Welcome to Convention Season; Orbit Reader, New Products, Deals, and More
It's convention season at A. T. Guys, and we're celebrating with deals, new products, and more. Whether you're attending the NFB or ACB virtual conventions, or just looking for a deal, visit us for the latest info, as more deals will be added throughout the month. We have a few Orbit Reader 40 units in stock and ready to ship. Plus, we're including a free 32GB memory card with all Orbit Reader 40 orders. Check out the brand new Versa Slate, the paperless, braille slate for taking quick notes or practicing braille. Or how about our folding Bluetooth keyboard or our travel wall charger, or our ever-expanding line of Bluetooth headsets to wear on the go. Check out our loudest Bluetooth speaker yet, the 40-watt Stormbox Pro, or pair two of them together to make your party twice as nice. Plus, use coupon "ttt21" to get free shipping on orders of $79 or more through July 10 for U.S. customers. Visit https://www.atguys.com/tidbits or call (269) 216-4798 📱️. Or Email support@atguys.com 📧️ with questions.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) All The Best New iOS 15 Features That Apple Didn't Reveal at WWDC: (8.5% of all clicks.)https://bgr.com/tech/ios-15-update-features-tips-tricks-maps-text-selection-drag-drop-5931648/
B.) F6 Is Your Friend: (8.1% of all clicks.)
https://blindaccessjournal.com/2021/06/f6-is-your-friend/
C.) Progress in JAWS Voice Assistant: (3.7% of all clicks.)
https://support.freedomscientific.com/downloads/jaws/JAWSWhatsNew
D.) How to Convert a Word Document to a PowerPoint Presentation: (3.5% of all clicks.)
https://www.howtogeek.com/729133/how-to-convert-a-word-document-to-a-powerpoint-presentation/
E.) 9 Ways to Open a Word Document Without Word: (3.5% of all clicks.)
https://helpdeskgeek.com/office-tips/9-ways-to-open-a-word-document-without-word/
2) Game On | 4 New Endorsements | Top Tech Tidbits BVI Technology Game Directory
Tidbits readers need your help. They want to know what games they should be playing. And not just for accessibility, but for pure enjoyment. If you are a blind or visually impaired gamer and you play a game that you would like to tell other blind or visually impaired gamers about, please submit your game to the Top Tech Tidbits BVI Technology Game Directory today. And remember, if you come across a game in the Directory that you agree is awesome, be sure to endorse it by submitting it yourself so that it moves up the list where more people will notice it:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Western Digital Drives Being Remotely Wiped: What Experts Say To Do Now
Owners of some Western Digital external hard drives should disconnect them from the internet and probably turn them off completely, as reports of remotely wiped data continue. The drive-maker confirmed last week that some owners had seen their network-connected storage accessed unofficially and a complete reset triggered, though details on just how much people should be concerned continue to emerge:https://www.slashgear.com/western-digital-drives-remotely-wiped-what-experts-say-to-do-now-26680074/
4) Windows 11: Release Date, Price, and Everything You Need To Know
It turns out Windows 10 wasn't the last version of Windows after all, but that's okay, because Windows 11 will be free for all Windows 10 users, and includes a whole bunch of new features and improvements over the current version of Windows. This is everything you need to know:https://www.windowscentral.com/windows-11
5) What Are the Minimum System Requirements to Run Windows 11?
With Windows 11 arriving at the end of 2021, Microsoft has announced the minimum system specifications required to run the new operating system:https://www.howtogeek.com/737029/what-are-the-minimum-system-requirements-to-run-windows-11/
6) How to Check if Your Windows 10 PC Can Run Windows 11
Windows 11 was officially announced as the latest version of Microsoft's operating system on June 24th 2021. Naturally, you most likely want to know if your Windows 10 computer will be able to run the new update. Microsoft has a handy tool to help you check:https://www.howtogeek.com/737021/how-to-check-if-your-windows-10-pc-can-run-windows-11/
7) The Most Important New Features in Windows 11
Texttoreplace.https://www.wired.com/story/most-important-things-microsoft-announcement-windows-11-android-apps/
8) June 2020 AccessWorld
In the June 2020 AccessWorld, we find "Apple TV+: A Very Accessible Service," "Battle of the Trackers: Tile vs AirTag," "A Never-Ending Convention on your Phone: A Guide to the Clubhouse Audio App," "Audio Description Isn't Just for Video," "Book Review: Audio Description: What It Is, Where to Find It, and How to Use It, by Judy Dixon," and "Book Review: Basics for the Beginning User: Mac OS 11 Big Sur Update, by Janet Ingber:"https://www.afb.org/aw/22/6
9) Learn Eleventy From Scratch
In this 31-lesson written course, we go from a completely empty directory to a full-blown marketing site for a design agency, and along the way, we dive really deep into Eleventy and front-end development best practices:https://piccalil.li/course/learn-eleventy-from-scratch/
10) WebAIM: Screen Reader User Survey #9 Results
Always fascinating to see what the survey respondents say this year:https://webaim.org/projects/screenreadersurvey9/
11) Senior Accessibility Software Development Engineer at Microsoft Offers Resources
This article contains references to a number of Windows desktop accessibility-related resources for software solution builders:https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/reflections-twenty-years-exploration-guy-barker
12) Current List of Audio Files from The Braillists Foundation
Lots of material here on using and learning Braille, with more produced each week:https://www.braillists.org/media/
13) Tech Auction from Michigan
The NFB of Michigan is hosting the Summer of Tech online auction, with items including accessible TV's, an iPad, a Victor Trek, a smart air fryer and more. Auction ends July 11th 2021 at 01:00 GMT:https://www.nfbmi.org/auction
14) Google TalkBack Has Almost Caught up with iOS VoiceOver
This tech instructor was pleased with the development of TalkBack:https://technologyisawesome.com/2021/06/25/google-talkback-almost-caught-up-with-ios-voiceover/
15) Using Your Amazon Echo Alexa to Join Zoom Meetings
This information brought to us by the Inclusive Ability Initiative:https://iabilityi.com/using-your-amazon-echo-alexa-to-join-zoom-meetings/uncategorized/
16) Webinar Recordings From TPGi
June 9th 2021 | Transitioning from WCAG 2.0-2.1https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-june-9-transitioning-from-wcag-2-0-2-1/
June 29th 2021 | Undertaking JAWS Screen Reader Compatibility Testing in Real Life
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-june-29-undertaking-jaws-screen-reader-compatibility-testing-in-real-life/
17) Three New Voice Features for Outlook Mobile — Now on iOS, and Coming Soon to Android
Microsoft recently announced new enhanced voice capabilities in Outlook mobile for iOS (and coming soon to Android) that make using voice to schedule meetings and compose emails simpler for everyone. These new AI-enhanced voice capabilities quickly contextualize your voice requests and provide a rapid response, making it more easy and natural to work on the go:https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2021/06/08/three-new-voice-features-for-outlook-mobile-now-on-ios-and-coming-soon-to-android/
18) Quinter, A Simple Yet Efficient and Powerful Twitter Client for Windows and Mac OS
This is a new client, but is being developed quickly and has received some positive reviews from blind users:http://masonasons.me/pages/quinter.php
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Another Big Win in the Domino's Pizza Accessibility Saga
This is an article about a judge's decision in the Domino's Pizza web access case. The judge ruled that Domino's violated the Americans with Disabilities Act. It violated the law because its website was not fully accessible to a blind customer. The judge ordered Domino's to fix the site. Domino's also must pay $4,000.00 to the blind person who filed the lawsuit. The judge also ruled that Domino's mobile app was covered by the ADA. But the judge did not have enough facts to decide who won that part of the case. This order is the next step after the U.S. Supreme Court's decision in 2019 not to hear the case:https://www.lflegal.com/2021/06/dominos-june-2021/
2) Largest U.S. Blind Advocacy Group Bans Web Accessibility Overlay Giant AccessiBe
The National Federation of the Blind, America's most powerful civil rights and advocacy group for the visually impaired has launched a scathing attack on web accessibility overlay market leader accessiBe, accusing the company of engaging in "harmful" practices:https://www.forbes.com/sites/gusalexiou/2021/06/26/largest-us-blind-advocacy-group-bans-web-accessibility-overlay-giant-accessibe/?sh=3fa7f2db5a15
3) How to Borrow eBooks from a Library on a Kindle for Free
We cannot currently vouch for the accessibility of this process. If anyone else in the community can please reach out to us. You might think that the only way to get ebooks on your Kindle is to buy them from Amazon. But the truth is that you have access to a literal library of free books. All you need is a library card:https://www.howtogeek.com/735643/how-to-borrow-ebooks-from-a-library-on-a-kindle-for-free/
4) Keep Your Ear On The Ball: Beep Ball Engages Sight-Impaired Athletes
In Beep Baseball — a coed game adapted for visually impaired athletes — it's either a run or an out. There are 32 sanctioned teams in the United States playing the sport. Countries such as Taiwan, Canada, France and the Dominican Republic also have programs. The World Series will be played July 25th 2021 - August 1st in Wichita, Kansas:https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2021/06/26/keep-your-ear-on-the-ball-beep-ball-engages-sight-impaired-athletes/
5) Text-to-Speech App Aims to Help People with Disabilities to Read
Honored as one of 12 winners worldwide in Apple's Design Awards, a text-to-speech app created by Arlington-based Voice Dream aims to provide an idealistic solution for users who are blind, visually-impaired or face learning disabilities to read:https://www.bizjournals.com/boston/inno/stories/from-the-community/2021/06/24/text-to-speech-app-aims-to-help-people-with-disabi.html
6) Bedford Biotech Restores "Meaningful Vision" in Blind Patients With Gene Therapy — and May Soon Go Public
Nanoscope Therapeutics successfully treated 11 patients blinded by advanced retinitis pigmentosa (RP). A single intravitreal injection produced positive results that persisted through one year. The startup plans a Phase 2b trial this summer and plans to develop gene therapies to treat more common retinal diseases — like dry age-related macular degeneration:https://dallasinnovates.com/bedford-biotech-restores-meaningful-vision-in-blind-patients-with-gene-therapy-and-may-soon-go-public/
7) 'Smart Cane' Brings Tech Advances to Visually Impaired
White sticks used by the visually impaired to help them get about have had a hi-tech makeover, with a "smart cane" that doesn't just detect obstacles but can also give users information about the shops and restaurants they are passing:https://www.reuters.com/technology/smart-cane-brings-tech-advances-visually-impaired-2021-06-29/
8) Business Accommodations for Employees with Hearing Impairments, Vision Impairments, Or Other Disabilities
If your business has 15 or more employees, it's required to provide reasonable accommodations per the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you have fewer employees, accommodations might still be mandated, depending on state or local laws. Regardless of the legalities, it's smart for any business to offer accommodations that don't impose an undue hardship. The changes usually are simple and free. At the same time, they widen applicant pools, enhance morale, and foster an atmosphere of inclusion:https://www.business.com/legal/business-accommodations-guide-employees/
9) The MiniVision2: A Solid Basic Cell Phone
A review from Karl Belanger:https://nfb.org/images/nfb/publications/bm/bm21/bm2105/bm210519.htm
10) Kellogg's Launches New Cereal Boxes That Are More Accessible for Blind People
Kellogg's is rolling out new packaging which lets a smartphone easily detect an on-pack code and play back labelling information to shoppers. Users can download an app and point their phone at a coloured square label on a black background on the box:https://www.thesun.co.uk/money/15440475/kelloggs-cereal-boxes-that-accessible-blind-people/
11) Samsung's Smart TVs Get Another Certification for Their Accessibility Features
The company has announced that its smart TVs have received the ATECH certification from ONCE Foundation in Spain. The certificate has been awarded to multiple TVs in Samsung's lineup: Neo QLED TV, 4K QLED TV, 8K QLED TV, The Frame, The Serif, The Sero, and The Terrace. It means that the company's TVs are more accessible and easier to use for people who are completely blind or those who have limited vision or color blindness:https://www.sammobile.com/news/samsung-smart-tvs-accessibility-features-certification/
12) How An Easy-to-Use Razor Helped a Shave Brand Lead The Way in Social Media Accessibility
For anyone living with visual impairment, routine tasks that might pose a challenge can be made easier with the right tools, making daily life less stressful and allowing everyone to live their lives to the fullest. Digital Content Creator Molly Burke, a YouTuber, motivational speaker, author, and commercial model who is blind, partnered with Schick Intuition to help get the word out about using more accessible and inclusive approaches to social media content:https://warwickonline.com/stories/how-an-easy-to-use-razor-helped-a-shave-brand-lead-the-way-in-social-media-accessibility,163026?
13) A Century Ago, the Optophone Allowed Blind People to Hear the Printed Word
The optophone turned letters into tones and was the proof of concept for optical character recognition:https://spectrum.ieee.org/tech-history/dawn-of-electronics/a-century-ago-the-optophone-allowed-blind-people-to-hear-the-printed-word
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Audio Described National Parks | Hadley Presents: A Conversation with the Experts
June 25th 2021Audio Describe the World! That's the mantra of UniDescription: a free smartphone app that provides audio descriptions and navigation tips for US National Parks and other public places:
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/audio-described-national-parks
2) Blind Android Users 29 | Battle of the OCR Packages and Interview with Lookout Team Members
June 26th 2021 | In this episode we demo many popular OCR packages like Lookout by Google, Supersense, Speak! Sullivan+, KNFB Reader and Legere Scanner, to see who is the King of OCR. We then have a chat with Scot Adams and Zoe Ortiz from the Google Lookout OCR team. In our My Android Journey, John Dyer tells us how he got started with Android:https://blindandroidusers.com/
3) Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther 28 | Dragon Boat Competitions and the Blind
June 26th 2021Dragon boats may be over 2,500 years old, but blind and vision impaired athletes love them. ON this episode of AMI Audio's podcast, "Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther", it's all about what it takes to become a competitive dragon boat paddler. Ms Lilly explores their origins, and we speak with Albert McDonald, a dragon boat coach for the Dartmouth Dragon Boat vision impaired team. Lawrence, a competitive dragon boat paddler himself, shares his tips and insights on what it takes to be a competitive paddler and winning team:
https://www.bemyeyes.com/podcasts/when-everybodys-watching
4) Mosen At Large 135
June 26th 2021 Windows 11 comments, inaccessible financial data, have we gone soft on blindness advocacy and more:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/955471c4/windows-11-comments-inaccessible-financial-data-have-we-gone-soft-on-blindness-advocacy-and-more
5) That Real Blind Tech Show 41 | Grumpy Old Choices
June 26th 2021We start off discussing a recent petition started in England demanding that all content aired and streamed provide audio description. You can sign the petition here. We then discuss a bill being drafted before the U.S. Congress to make:
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-41-grumpy-old-choices
6) Say My Meme | Beach Memes
June 29th 2021It's hotter than ever, and so this week we decided to pull some memes that everyone can relate to: What happens at the beach. Whether it's that weirdo with the metal detector or the bizarre sunburn you came home with, this is your jumping off point for summer:
https://www.bemyeyes.com/podcasts/beach-memes
7) Eyes on Success 2127 | Missy Mouse Books
June 30th 2021Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey speak with Mike May, the subject of "Crashing Through", a bestselling book about his experiences regaining partial vision through a stem cell transfer and corneal transplant. Having lost his vision initially at age 3, his visual cortex was only partially developed. He had to learn some things he never knew and how to use what new vision he got:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%201227.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Envision's First Town Hall Event
July 1st 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | You can join this event via Clubhouse, Twitter Spaces or Zoom on Thursday, July 1st 2021 at 12:00 PM ET. Here is the Zoom registration link:https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_qqahQGQPS0GwIdRqpEy9Qw?_x_zm_rtaid=SJ6AB7nUSP-tqxcUziSeQQ.1624440625547.23cd4d8f0693d7f7aa06ef54bf914c4c&_x_zm_rhtaid=900
And here is the Clubhouse link:
https://www.clubhouse.com/join/envisioners/V3rITPe6/PQRWqq2n
2) National Association of Guide Dog Users 2021 Annual Seminar
July 6th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | The seminar committee has been working hard to ensure that our seminar will be filled with great information, and of course our traditional door prizes. This year's theme is "Celebrating Puppy Raisers Everywhere." In addition, the seminar will feature a veterinary piece, updates from guide dog training programs and our advocacy component will prepare everyone for this year's resolutions. The NAGDU annual business meeting will take place on Thursday, July 8th 2021, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM ET. During the business meeting we will hold our annual elections, hear from our legal department, and learn about all the things NAGDU has been up to over the past year. Please use the below link to register. Registration will close at midnight Eastern July 6. Remember, to be eligible for door prizes, you must register. We are looking forward to seeing everyone in July:https://bit.ly/2T5FWBI
3) National Federation of the Blind 2021 National Convention
July 6th 2021 through July 10th 2021 | Register for free to attend the largest gathering of blind people and take advantage of the opportunity to network with thousands of blind role models, connect with leaders in the field of blindness, attend presentations on a variety of empowering topics, and learn about the latest in technology and innovation. Learn more and register here:https://www.nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention
4) How To Fully Utilize Clubhouse, Facebook and Zoom | Technology User Group
July 10th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | On Saturday, July 10th 2021, the Technology User Group prepares you to fully utilize Clubhouse Facebook and Zoom. Whether you attend Zoom meetings or pursue other avenues of socialization, we all want to share and enjoy the benefits that Zoom, Clubhouse and Facebook can bring. Unmuting a microphone at the wrong time or posting in the wrong edit field can be a humbling experience. Please join us as we help you to avoid mistakes and transform you into a master of your social universe. The presentation will be virtual and may be joined by calling (319) 527-4994 📱️. You do not have to RSVP for this event. The presentation will begin at 10:00 AM ET and last about 90 minutes. We look forward to meeting with you virtually on Saturday, July 10th, and hope that you will join us for other exciting events we have planned for 20215) Important Aspects of PDF Remediation | TPGi
July 14th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | PDFs and other electronic documents are essential elements for online communication. As we strive to create an accessible digital experience for all users, we must not neglect the electronic documents hosted on websites. Ensuring such documents are accessible is a critical aspect of a comprehensive, accessible experience. Our introductory webinar will provide a high-level overview of how to remediate electronic documents (specifically PDFs) for accessibility. We will review the fundamental concepts of PDF remediation and techniques that you can implement in your documents upon completion of the webinar. A live Q & A will follow the presentation:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-july-14-important-aspects-of-pdf-remediation/
6) Moving Forward: Access to Inclusive Fitness Equipment | United States Access Board
July 14th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | The U.S. Access Board invites the public to a virtual meeting on advancing access to fitness equipment on July 14th 2021 from 1:00 PM - 3:15 PM ET. The event, "Moving Forward: Access to Inclusive Fitness Equipment," will feature panel presentations on the need for access to fitness equipment, initiatives to address equipment accessibility, and implementation of inclusive fitness equipment. Scheduled panelists include representatives from the National Center on Health, Physical Activity and Disability, the American Council for the Blind, Mobility Fitness, the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America, ASTM International, Universal Fitness Innovation & Transformation, Ability 360, I Design Access, and equipment manufacturers. They will discuss the importance of access to exercise equipment, resources and initiatives to promote inclusive design of equipment, and examples of inclusive equipment and fitness centers. The event is free, but registration is required. The event will include video remote interpreting (VRI) and real-time captioning. For further information, visit the Board's website. Direct questions to Rose Marie Bunales at events@access-board.gov 📧️. Registration (Free):https://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_ZMxz1SE1SOKF60tEi_2smg
7) 2021 ACB Virtual Conference and Convention | Registration Information and Browse Conference and Convention Sessions
July 16th 2021 through July 23rd 2021 Registration is now open. If you wish, you can now browse the seminars, workshops, meetings, programs, and social events that are scheduled before you actually register. Registration will remain open to June 28, 2021, but before you register, there is an important task each of you must undertake if you plan on registering. ACB is moving ever closer to a singular login and password that will apply to all ACB websites and web-based functions. If you intend on registering for the convention this year, please go to https://members.acb.org/ to create your ACB account. Select "CREATE AN ACCOUNT" and complete the profile information requested. You will need to create a new username and password (if you wish, you can use the same username and password you used for past conventions when creating this new account). There is one exception: If you registered for the ACB Holiday Auction in December 2020, you have already created an account and you do not have to do so again. If you have problems or questions regarding this process, please call the Minnesota Finance Office at (612) 332-3242 📱️. You will use this new username and password when you register on or after May 20, 2021. To make sure you receive the most up to date information, subscribe to our convention announce list by sending a blank email to acbconvention+subscribe@acblists.org 📧️ or contact Janet Dickelman, convention coordinator at janet.dickelman@gmail.com 📧️ or by phone at (651) 428-5059 📱️.https://acbconvention.org/?p=61
8) Accessibility Features to Consider & Avoid When Developing an Accessible Kiosk | TPGi
July 20th 2021 | 7PM PT, 8PM MT, 9PM CT, 10PM ET, 2AM GMT on 7/21 | In this webinar, the TPGi team will interview Peter Jarvis, Senior Executive Vice President and founding Director of Storm Interface. Peter Jarvis will answer questions about what accessibility features should be considered when developing an accessible kiosk, mistakes to avoid, and at which point in your project you should be thinking about the proper assistive technology components:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-july-20-accessibility-feature-consider-developing-accessible-kiosk/
➜ Surveys
1) PolyPad Braille Display Needs Assessment
Close Date: July 1st 2021 | Participants must be 18 years or older to participate and able to read braille. We hope that our research will lead to a high quality multi-lined braille display that can be used with a smartphone. Researchers will investigate the quality and usefulness of the product and use the information to improve the development of the device:https://calstatela.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2fPVm4hlLE5hQhg
2) Access Technology in the Workplace
Close Date: July 1st 2021 | Open Date: Now Open | Survey Information: a. The NRTC is recruiting people with blindness or low vision (age 21+) who are working or interested in working to be part of a 5-year study about access technology (AT) use, particularly in the workplace. Some questions we will seek answers to are: i. What AT do you most commonly use? ii. How do you decide whether to use a specific AT? iii. What are your AT challenges? iv. What AT do you need that isn't currently available? b. We want to know YOUR thoughts and experiences! Participation will involve completing multiple surveys to help us determine how AT use is changing over time. Fill out the online pre-screening survey to see if you qualify! 5. Survey Rewards Offered: a. if selected from this pre-screening survey, you'll receive a small gift card after completing each survey. Additionally, the NRTC will share study results with participants:https://msstatecoe.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8i98Qap5V441mdg?source=27
3) Blind and Low-Vision Adults Needed for Survey of User Experiences with Food Delivery Apps
Close Date: July 15th 2021 | Calling all blind and low-vision volunteers age 18 and older. Do you often encounter difficulties when ordering takeout food through food delivery apps and having the food delivered? Would you like to describe your challenges with these apps and food delivery and provide suggestions to improve your experience? Come to tell us about your experience. We are researchers from the Rochester Institute of Technology and currently we are conducting a survey to investigate the user experience, challenges, and workarounds of food delivery apps, like UberEats, DoorDash, and GrubHub by people with low-vision or blindness. In the survey, you will be asked your user experience with food delivery apps, and some questions about your background. The survey will take about 5-10 minutes:https://rit.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8ArN1YFP1HAvMeW
4) Paid Opportunity to Participate in a Research Study: Studying Tools to Manage and Share Pictures
Close Date: July 16th 2021 | We are a group of researchers at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. We are conducting research to help blind people and people with visual impairments (BVI people) share pictures to social media free of private and sensitive information. We have designed a mobile App to let BVI users screen private and sensitive information of their about-to-share pictures using artificial intelligence (AI) and human effort. Participants must be 18 years of age or older to participate in this research study. Those who complete the study will receive a $20 compensation and $10 for exit interview. Learn more here:https://ischoolillinois.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0vVmhfJViHruycS
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Focus 14 Blue 5th Gen Braille Display
Listing Date: 6/17/2021 | Price: $600.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: One gently used 14-Cell Bluetooth Braille Display in excellent condition. | Contact: larry.lewis@flying-blind.com 📧️ |2) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: Dean Martineau
➜ Voice Training
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: Pneuma Solutions
➜ 3 Easy Steps To Accessible Shared Content For Your Remote Presentations: Rid Digital Darkness For Blind Attendee's Forever!
https://scribeformeetings.com/
Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
Sponsor: Commtech USA
➜ Training to Fit Your Needs
https://commtechusa.net/store
Sponsor Since: April 22nd 2021
Website: https://commtechusa.net/ 🌐
Phone: (833) 345-8324 📱️
About: Commtech USA, a division of Commtech LLC is a Phoenix based national assistive technology company, with locations in Bakersfield CA. We deliver unmatched information technology and assistive technology consultations, training and support. Founded in 2005 as a government vendor fulfilling a vast range of technology needs of federal and state government clients, Commtech USA has expanded to meet the needs of businesses as well as individuals, with office locations across the nation. No issue is too large or too small for our staff, Commtech USA is the on call technology staff you call when you have tried the rest but need the best!
Book an appointment with Commtech.
Meet the Commtech USA Staff in this YouTube video.
Download The App (iOS):
Commtech USA for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Commtech USA for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ VisionAware Resources Including the Directory of Services
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/070120211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ How to Use Hot Keys to Work Across Multiple Monitors in SuperNova
https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/support/videos/playlist?id=14&vid=1073
Sponsor Since: January 28th 2021
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Phone (USA & Canada): +1 (866) 797-5921 📱️
Phone (UK, Europe & Asia): +44 01905 754577 📱️
Phone (Nordic & Baltic Contries): +46 0515 82175 📱️
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of GuideConnect
GuideConnect Trial
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of SuperNova
SuperNova Trial
About: Dolphin Computer Access offers a wide array of solutions for students, people in the workforce, and at home who are blind, visually impaired or have dyslexia. Each product is purposefully designed to help users, with varying levels of technology experience, do everyday things EASILY on computers and tablets. Founded in 1986 and located in Worcester England, Dolphin has grown to become a global market leader worldwide.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ Accessible Pharmacy Joins Be My Eyes
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Build A Foundational Understanding Of Construction And Electronics With BRIC: Structures® Access Kit From APH - An Adapted Version Of An Educational Elenco® Product For Students Who Are Blind And Visually Impaired!
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ GuideLights and Gadgets: Exciting Convention Specials, More Next Week
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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 📱️.
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, June 24, 2021 - Volume 812 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, June 24, 2021 - Volume 812
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: GuideLights And Gadgets New Products and Convention Specials!
GuideLights And Gadgets New Products and Convention Specials. (1) Our unique solution for 20 cell Braille displays; The I Love My Display Protective folio: it's a concealed weapon case converted to securely holding and protecting your display in the middle of a heavy leather book sized case; best of all, you can even use it in the case, $70.00. (2) New Leather waist pack for BS 6 and other 32 cell displays; 17.5 inches long; $35 on special. (3) We Found It: The durable aluminum 7 section telescopic cane is here, and it won't collapse on you; 48 & 59 inch lengths, good polymer tips, (2 of them) $50.00. (4) Our accurate talking thermometer and BP meter; $50 each; (5) Our new hands free cowhide Gadget neck pouch; 5x4x7, 5 pockets, 700 people loved the first one, $40.00. (6) Our Evo 10 Stream alternative, over $150 cheaper, with a better speaker, clearer and louder voices4 No Bard, but Internet radio, an editor allowing you to edit your recordings very quickly. (7) Harness light strips; on special for $20, and (8# Dog toys: 25 to 75 percent off. Ask about toy bundles, too. Lots more. It's a haul for all. Call Barry at (617) 969-7500 📱️ or email bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️ or phone Kae at: (781) 286-1696 📱️. Come drop by our Zoom room and learn more about how we do a lot of hands-free source products. Barry, Kae, Melody, and Debra. http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us.Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) 8 iPhone Accessibility Features for People With Vision Problems: (8.7% of all clicks.)https://www.makeuseof.com/iphone-accessibility-features-for-people-with-vision-problems/
B.) Some iOS 15 Features Require an iPhone XS or Newer: (5.8% of all clicks.)
https://9to5mac.com/2021/06/14/ios-15-exclusive-features-newer-iphones/
C.) How to Fix Windows 10 with a 30-Minute Repair Install: (5.3% of all clicks.)
https://www.tomshardware.com/how-to/fix-windows-10-repair-install
D.) What Stevie Wonder Can Teach The World About Accessible Design: (4.9% of all clicks.)
https://www.august.com.au/blog/what-stevie-wonder-can-teach-accessible-inclusive-design/
E.) New Version of Braille Blaster: (4.0% of all clicks.)
https://brailleblaster.org/download.php
2) Calling All Gamers | Top Tech Tidbits Launches Blind and Visually Impaired Technology Game Directory
Tidbits readers need your help. They want to know what games they should be playing. And not just for accessibility, but for pure enjoyment. This is the goal behind the new Top Tech Tidbits BVI Technology Game Directory. Each of the games listed in the Directory will be submitted directly by Top Tech Tidbits readers. Each of the games listed in the Directory will be ranked by number of "endorsements". A game receives a single "endorsement" each time it is submitted to the Directory. So the more times that a game is submitted to the Directory the more "endorsements" it receives. Games will be listed by number of "endorsements" in descending order. Each of the games listed in the Directory will also be ranked for accessibility on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being "Completely Inaccessible", and 10 being "Completely Accessible". These rankings will represent an average of the rankings provided by those readers who have submitted the game to the Directory. Each of the games listed in the Directory will also be ranked for enjoyment on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being "No fun at all." and 10 being "Best game I've ever played." These rankings will represent an average of the rankings provided by those readers who have submitted the game to the Directory. So if you are a blind or visually impaired gamer and you play a game that you would like to tell other blind or visually impaired gamers about, please submit your game to the Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Technology Game Directory today by filling out this short form:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-game-directory
3) Hadley Staying Connected Series | Telling Time
It's happened to all of us. A good friend you haven't spoken to in a while phoned out of the blue. You were having such a great time catching up, that you lost all track of time. The problem is, you ended up 20 minutes late for an appointment. If only you'd had an audible reminder, or discrete alarm, you could've ended the call and made it on time. Keeping track of time is essential to move through your day smoothly. And the more ways you have to tell time, the better:https://hadley.edu/workshops/staying-connected-series/staying-connected-telling-time
4) 3 Tips For More Accessible Social Media
Organizations that want to stay relevant and respected must embrace inclusivity. But inclusivity and accessibility are connected, especially on social media. Here are three tips to bring your social media program up to speed with these expectations:https://www.prdaily.com/3-tips-for-more-accessible-social-media/
5) Accessible Games Now Available in GuideConnect
A free update to GuideConnect 1.17, rolled out on June 7th 2021, includes three new accessible games, the ability to browse and read books from Calibre Audio, plus a host of improvements for reading emails, visiting websites and more:https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/news?id=503
6) OrCam Read, A Handheld AI-Driven Reading Pen by OrCam Technologies Recently Named A Finalist in the Assistive Technology Category of the EdTech Awards
OrCam Read, a handheld AI-driven reading pen by OrCam Technologies, was recently named a finalist in the assistive technology category of the EdTech Awards, the largest and most competitive recognition program in all of education technology. The device was also named an honoree in the "Accessibility" category of the 2021 CES Innovation Awards. If you have questions such as, "Is it right for me?," How does it differ from other reading pens and apps for low vision?," or "Is it worth the investment?," they have published a blog post titled, "5 Things To Consider Before Buying the OrCam Read Reading Pen" to address consumer questions and concerns:https://lowvisionsource.com/spotlight-orcam-read/
7) NVDA 2021.1 Beta4 Available for Testing
New features are becoming more stable. It is best to install from the release announcement if you have an earlier beta on your system:https://www.nvaccess.org/post/nvda-2021-1beta4/
8) Changes Coming to ACB Radio
There's a lot on the horizon for followers of ACB Radio. On July 1st 2021 they will announce the launch of the ACB Media Network, which will be the go to place for all of ACB's digital media video and audio channels. In addition, they are also sharing a very important update launching on June 27th 2021 for those who listen to ACB Radio using an Alexa-enabled device. In an effort to modernize ACB radio's live streams, The American Council of the Blind will be updating its popular Alexa skills. This new skill will provide greater ease of access with minimal technical hiccups:https://acb.org/alexa-skills-2021
9) 9 Ways to Open a Word Document Without Word
Did you just download or receive a Microsoft Word document on your desktop or mobile device but you don't have Word installed? Don't let that DOC or DOCX extension freak you out. You have many ways to open and edit the file without having to shell out for an Office 365 subscription. For instance, did you know that Office Online lets you work with any Word document free of charge? Or that you can use open-source software such as OpenOffice and LibreOffice for a Word-like experience offline? Here's a rundown of the best methods to open and edit Word documents on any device without having Microsoft Word installed:https://helpdeskgeek.com/office-tips/9-ways-to-open-a-word-document-without-word/
10) Improve The Audio Muting Capabilities of Your Browser With Smart Mute
Smart Mute is a browser extension for Google Chrome that extends the audio muting functionality of the browser. While designed for Chrome, it does install and work fine in other Chromium-based browsers such as Microsoft Edge. Chrome users have one default option when it comes to controlling audio in the browser. A right-click on a tab displays the context menu option "mute site" which stops audio playback for the entire site. Google changed the option some years ago from muting individual tabs to muting the entire site. Extensions such as Tab Muter may be used to bring back tab muting in Chrome:https://www.ghacks.net/2021/06/14/improve-the-audio-muting-capabilities-of-your-browser-with-smart-mute/
11) Hack: How To Get Two Free Months of Microsoft 365 Family or Personal
A little-known trick might get you two extra months of Microsoft 365 Personal or Family for no charge:https://office-watch.com/2021/get-two-free-months-of-microsoft-365-family-or-personal/
12) All The Best New iOS 15 Features That Apple Didn't Reveal at WWDC
A list of some of the best new iOS 15 features that Apple didn't mention:https://bgr.com/tech/ios-15-update-features-tips-tricks-maps-text-selection-drag-drop-5931648/
13) How Do I Move Thunderbird to a New Computer?
https://askleo.com/how_do_i_move_my_thunderbirdbased_email_from_one_machine_to_another/14) New Facebook Group "Victor Reader Products From Humanware" Moderated By David Goldfield
This new Facebook Group is for anyone to discuss Humanware's line of Victor Reader products. This can include the Victor Reader Stream first and second generation, the Victor Reader Trek, the Victor Reader Stratus and even the Humanware Companion software as it relates to these products. Reminiscing about older Victor products such as the Victor Vibe and the Victor Wave are also fine. If you're on Facebook just search for the group "Victor Reader Products From Humanware" and you are sure to find it. Or you can use the link below. Please note that David Goldfield is not a Humanware employee and this group is not an official support channel with Humanware. However, it is his hope that users will feel free to ask questions and offer support on using these products:https://www.facebook.com/groups/834028210805532
15) RNIB Tech Talk Podcast
This page contains links to each epsode of this popular weekly series and podcast:https://audioboom.com/channel/techtalkpodcast
16) Google Gets New Rival as Brave Search Opens to the Public
This CNET article explains that Brave, makers of a privacy-focused browser, is now starting a search engine:https://www.cnet.com/news/google-gets-a-new-rival-as-brave-search-opens-to-the-public/
17) Progress in JAWS Voice Assistant
Sharkey is becoming more and more useful. Various sections in the What's New Guide Update Us On Its Capabilitieshttps://support.freedomscientific.com/downloads/jaws/JAWSWhatsNew
18) How to Convert a Word Document to a PowerPoint Presentation
This comes from How-To Geek and might be worth a try:https://www.howtogeek.com/729133/how-to-convert-a-word-document-to-a-powerpoint-presentation/
19) F6 Is Your Friend
A brief summary of all you can do with the F6 key in various plays, courtesy of Blind Access Journal:https://blindaccessjournal.com/2021/06/f6-is-your-friend/
20) A Review of the Brailliant BI 20X
HumanWare's 20-cell device has a few features besides the number of cells that distinguish it from the 40-cell version:https://www.helenkeller.org/hknc/review-brailliant-bi-20x
21) LibreOffice 7.1.4 Community Available For Download
On June 10th 2021 LibreOffice 7.1.4 Community, the fourth minor release of the LibreOffice 7.1 family, targeted at technology enthusiasts and power users, became available for download. LibreOffice 7.1.4 includes around 80 bug fixes, with 20% focused on Microsoft Office file compatibility (DOCX, XLSX and PPTX, and legacy DOCs):https://www.libreoffice.org/download/
22) Release of Acapela TTS Voices for NVDA 1.7
http://www.acapela-nvda.com/blog/2021/06/14/release-of-acapela-tts-voices-for-nvda-1-7/➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) 'Isolation to Inspiration' by Writing Works Wonders Author-Educators Cheryl McNeil Fisher and Kathleen P. King
The story of two author-educators experiencing sight-loss, who find a common vision of-encouraging, inspiring, and accelerating writers' sharing and development through a global platform for author interviews, virtual workshops, open mic events and more. Readers also enjoy the opportunity to interact with some of their favorite authors, such as Dr. Patrick Taylor, Jodi Thomas, Pamela Kelley and beloved narrator Kristin Allison:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/34.html
2) Even Easier Braille: Introducing BrailleBlaster V2!
BrailleBlaster V2 is a near-complete rewrite of how the software functions. It is a step that we had to take to include new features that could not be included otherwise- like true six-key entry and indicators for braille page number editing. It will also help us control regression and ensure stability. Learn more:https://www.aph.org/even-easier-braille-introducing-brailleblaster-v2/
3) Letter Rooms is a canstfiat Jumbled-Word Game For iOS
Looking for a fun brain-teaser this weekend? Letter Rooms is a letter-jumblingly fun word game created by award-winning developer Klemens Strasser, maker of Subwords, Asymmetric and Elementary Minute. The new $1.99 anagram-based game boasts more than 200 puzzles, broken down into a dozen topics — including animals, sports, pop culture, and more. Letter Rooms makes use of VoiceOver which translates the content users see on the screen into spoken words. In the case of Letter Rooms, it allows users to play the game even if they can't see the screen contents clearly:https://www.cultofmac.com/745493/letter-rooms-is-a-canstfiat-jumbled-word-game-for-ios/
4) 5 Innovations in Assistive Technology to Keep on Your Radar
In recent years, several innovative advances have emerged at the hands of tech companies and university programs:https://www.techpluto.com/5-innovations-in-assistive-technology-to-keep-on-your-radar/
5) Amazon Kindle Unlimited Has A New 4 Month Free Trial For US Customers
Prime members who are new to Kindle Unlimited get four months free with a new subscription. Kindle Unlimited readers can read as much as they want from an ever-growing selection of over 2 million eBooks, thousands of audiobooks, comics, short reads, and magazines, including blockbuster titles like The Hunger Games trilogy, The Other Emily by Dean Koontz, Drown Her Sorrows by Melinda Leigh, In Her Tracks by Robert Dugoni, and Take the Lead by Jessica Simpson. This deal is for customers living in the United States:https://goodereader.com/blog/kindle/amazon-kindle-unlimited-has-a-new-4-month-free-trial
6) Microsoft, Academy Awards, Be My Eyes and Others Recipients of First Annual 'Access-Ability Awards' from Helen Keller Services During DeafBlind Awareness Week
Texttoreplace.https://theislandnow.com/community-news/microsoft-academy-awards-others-recipients-of-first-annual-access-ability-awards-from-helen-keller-services-during-deafblind-awareness-week/
8) Calgary Teen Who is Visually Impaired Wins Award for Designing Adaptive Skateboard Park (Video)
A Calgary teen is being recognized by the City of Calgary for his work to make skate parks more accessible for youth with vision loss:https://globalnews.ca/video/7969512/calgary-teen-who-is-visually-impaired-wins-award-for-designing-adaptive-skateboard-park
9) Judge Rules For Blind Voters In NC Accessibility Case
A federal judge has ruled that the North Carolina State Board of Elections must give blind voters the opportunity to use an online voting system so they can vote absentee without assistance:https://www.wfae.org/politics/2021-06-22/judge-rules-for-blind-voters-in-nc-accessibility-case
10) 5 Smart Thermostats Starting At Just $68 That All Use Amazon Alexa
https://bgr.com/deals/smart-thermostat-with-alexa-on-amazon-5-inexpensive-options-5932793/11) Street Furniture 'Forcing Blind and Visually Impaired People Onto Roadways'
Outdoor dining is making navigation extremely difficult for the visually impaired, according to the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind:https://www.newstalk.com/news/street-furniture-forcing-blind-and-visually-impaired-people-onto-roadways-1213366
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) 13 Letters | When Everybody's Watching
June 17th 2021Access to television is in many ways still evolving, and as one of the leading TV, phone and internet providers in the United States, Spectrum is thinking beyond closed captions and large-button remotes to innovate across different channels. Their large accessibility team, headed by designers and incorporating people with disabilities to ensure that all products are optimized for all customers, is one of a kind in the industry. And with the recent release of apps such as Spectrum Access and Spectrum News, they've taken huge steps forward in inclusion for people with many different abilities and proficiencies. We sat down with Senior Outreach Manager for Accessibility, Petr Kucheryavy, to learn more about how got into accessibility and what Spectrum is doing different:"
https://www.bemyeyes.com/podcasts/when-everybodys-watching
2) Blind Android Users 28 | Its All About Audio Recorders and Interview with Brian Kemler, Product Manager for Talkback
June 19th 2021 |This is a very important episode for Talkback users, but it has something for CSR users as well. In this episode we demo some audio recorder apps. This week, we are absolutely thrilled to be joined to talk about all things Talkback by Brian Kemler, Product Manager for Talkback at Google. We ask him many questions about the trusted tester program, multi-finger jestures, and lots more. To listen to this episode and all previous episodes, visit:https://blindandroidusers.com/
3) Mosen At Large 133
June 19th 2021 Childhood radio memories, Non-24, What do you want in Windows 11 and more:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/83c0c58f/childhood-radio-memories-non-24-what-do-you-want-in-windows-11-and-more
4) That Real Blind Tech Show 40 | Just In Time For Prime Day, A Review Of Three New Products From Satechi
June 20th 2021Brian is back once again flying solo for another demo, this time he will be demoing three new products from Satechi. With Amazon Prime Day starting in a few hours, some of Satechi's products may be on sale on Amazon. If not, you can buy these products directly from Satechi, and they often have sales on these items:
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-40-just-in-time-for-prime-day-a-review-of-three-new-products-from-satechi
5) Parallel #53: Android 12
June 22nd 2021As usual this podcast features accessible and mainstream perspectives on Android 12:
https://www.relay.fm/parallel/53
6) Say My Meme | The Dog Show
June 22nd 2021What do you think of when you hear the words "Dog Show"? Maybe you've seen the Christopher Guest cult classic film "Best in Show," but if not, you might not have much of a reference point for this somewhat obscure subculture. That's why, inspired by the recent return of the Westminster Dog Show, the Say My Meme team went to work describing a handful of Dog Show Memes to let everyone in on the fun — and absurdity — that is the classic dog show:"
https://www.bemyeyes.com/podcasts/the-dog-show
7) FSCast #201
June 23rd 2021Hear about a new book on audio description, and the creative exploits of a blind math professor:
https://hwcdn.libsyn.com/p/2/3/9/2390dbe03f02b5ef/FSCast201-June2021.mp3?c_id=106010573&cs_id=106010573&destination_id=699950&expiration=1624482806&hwt=639a26c4fc923180a9282822b983a149
8) Eyes on Success 2126 | Encore of 1351 Regaining Vision After Decades of Blindness
June 23rd 2021Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey speak with Mike May, the subject of "Crashing Through", a bestselling book about his experiences regaining partial vision through a stem cell transfer and corneal transplant. Having lost his vision initially at age 3, his visual cortex was only partially developed. He had to learn some things he never knew and how to use what new vision he got:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202126.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Deaf Student Access: Tips & Resources for Reopening Campus
June 24th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Join the NDC | Help Team for this live presentation covering the most frequently asked questions about access and accommodations in a variety of formats. Though COVID-19 cases seem to be going down with rising vaccination rates, the fall 2021 semester will still be littered with uncertainty. Schools are planning for a variety of class formats — in-person, online, hybrid. Planning for all the different options also includes designing accessible environments. Register here:https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_bsmLHNK6QMmU1fDA4ijZ0Q
2) Mac by the Bit (Session 2) Simple, Basic, Practices and Procedures
June 24th 2021 | 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12 AM GMT on 6/25 | Mac by the Bit, Session 2 will start with some basics, the different styles of Mac's, how to turn them on, shut them down properly, the keyboard layout, and 20 Minutes or so of Q&A. We may even point a few miner similarities between MacOS, and Windows. Come with your questions ready, and to continue on this journey of learning the Mac from the ground up, bit by bit. To join at the scheduled time, click here:https://zoom.us/j/91835585918?pwd=QkpvSWpGRWkyREE0Q2l6a1V2YVdwdz09#success
3) Windows Narrator: Is it a Viable Screen Reader?
June 24th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Call (312) 809-1004 📱️. For information email:cody.froeter@second-sense.org 📧️
4) The Network of Assistive Technologists Welcome Donald Carney, PhD, from Math Whiteboard
June 25th 2021 | 10:30AM PT, 11:30AM MT, 12:30PM CT, 1:30PM ET, 5:30 PM GMT | MathWhiteboard is the first online collaborative whiteboard designed specifically for the teaching and learning of Mathematics. MathWhiteboard is like a smart piece of math paper with all of the functionality of a graphing calculator. Since it recognizes handwritten math notation, teachers and students can interact in a natural and familiar way. A gestural user interface allows users to move fluidly between multiple mathematical representations. The development of MathWhiteboard has been supported in part by the National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health, and US Department of Education:https://sites.google.com/noat.ca/events/2021/mathwhiteboard-25-jun-2021
5) Select the Right Tech, App Edition by The Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired of San Francisco
June 25th 2021 | 1PM PT, 2PM MT, 3PM CT, 4PM ET, 8PM GMT | The Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired of San Francisco offers a three-hour Zoom forum where six developers of a variety of apps will be present. Back by popular demand, Select the Right Tech connects access technology users with the companies who make products for our community. This year's virtual Select the Right Tech will feature developers of mainstream and specialized apps for the blind and low vision community. Don't miss this chance to ask your questions to the makers of the apps you love, and to learn about apps you haven't tried yet. A schedule of the day's presentations will be published the week prior to the event, RSVP now to receive the Zoom invite. This event is free and open to all, those who RSVP in advance will be eligible to win door prizes! LightHouse thanks Oracle for their generous sponsorship of this event. Register here:https://lighthousesf.secure.force.com/survey/c/EventRSVP.app?var_ClassId=a012L00000NnF5uQAF
6) The Road Ahead: Career Readiness for Middle School Students | APH Webinar
June 25th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | The employment rate for individuals with visual impairments is approximately 37% and remains relatively unchanged for decades. The Road Ahead webinar series guides educators to move beyond triaged transition planning with the goal of changing the trajectory for all students. Attend this webinar to better understand what is meant by career readiness skills for middle school age students, identify ways to guide students to discover suitable careers, and how to embed career readiness skills within all areas of the Expanded Core Curriculum:https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Vp5KWvMESYeMEAhNoJkNdw
7) 1st World Blindness Summit 2021
June 25th 2021 through June 30th 2021 | You are hereby invited to the first World Blindness Summit, an online and fully accessible event from June 25th to 30th 2021, open to everyone. What is the World Blindness Summit 21? This is a cutting-edge and innovative event that embraces the benefits of technologies, creating the first global and accessible online conference. Why is it unique? Over 1,000 blind and partially sighted people from nearly 190 countries over the world will participate to share their experiences and practices developed over the past five years, and especially those implemented to cope with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in all spheres of life. Who can participate? Everyone is welcome to attend, to participate, to listen, to talk, and to share this unique experience. All events of the World Blindness Summit are available in English, French and Spanish. Why is it interesting to participate? The achievements and challenges experienced will be analyzed, priorities will be set in this new era beginning by working hard to prevent blind and partially sighted people from being left behind in the digital revolution that has made such great progress in the past months. On the other hand, new strategies will be worked on to give visibility to our reality and above all, to promote everything that contributes to the substantiation of a central goal: to create a new vision of blindness, to enable everyone to fully participate in all aspect of our society. You can check the program here: https://www.worldblindnesssummit.com/en/schedule/program. It is all free and you have to register here by 5th June:https://www.worldblindnesssummit.com/en/inscription
8) TPGi Webinar: Undertaking JAWS Screen Reader Compatibility Testing in Real Life
June 29th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Experience a real-world scenario exhibiting the synergy between the JAWS screen reader and TPGi's JAWS compatibility testing tool, JAWS Inspect, as part of the accessibility QA process. Webinar attendees will observe the interaction between a real JAWS user struggling with a poorly designed web page and a TPGi accessibility tester making sense of the JAWS user's accessibility challenges via the power of JAWS Inspect:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-june-29-undertaking-jaws-screen-reader-compatibility-testing-in-real-life/
9) Career Technical Education: More than Workshop Classes | APH Webinar
June 29th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Think Career and Technical Education (CTE) is only vocational classes? Think again! Attend this webinar series and not only dispel misconceptions about CTE coursework, but also discover how students with Visual Impairments can actively engage in developing career specific skills with positive work outcomes:https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_JeIxi5-ESmOpZcd-hl6jLQ
10) Reaping the Benefits! Using Reaper Audio Workstation, OSARA and JAWS for Windows
June 30th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT, 7PM UK | This £80 / $112 USD course is suited to anyone who has an interest in creating or working with audio content. You should be familiar with how JAWS functions together with Windows concepts, such as how to navigate around applications. The course is fast-paced. There will be plenty of opportunities to ask questions regarding the topics under discussion, however this is achieved in a structured manner. This ensures that you can focus on learning the concepts being taught. All of your remaining questions answered here:http://www.hartgen.org/reaper
11) Envision's First Town Hall Event
July 1st 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | You can join this event via Clubhouse, Twitter Spaces or Zoom on Thursday, July 1st 2021 at 12:00 PM ET. Here is the Zoom registration link:https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_qqahQGQPS0GwIdRqpEy9Qw?_x_zm_rtaid=SJ6AB7nUSP-tqxcUziSeQQ.1624440625547.23cd4d8f0693d7f7aa06ef54bf914c4c&_x_zm_rhtaid=900
And here is the Clubhouse link:
https://www.clubhouse.com/join/envisioners/V3rITPe6/PQRWqq2n
12) National Association of Guide Dog Users 2021 Annual Seminar
July 6th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | The seminar committee has been working hard to ensure that our seminar will be filled with great information, and of course our traditional door prizes. This year's theme is "Celebrating Puppy Raisers Everywhere." In addition, the seminar will feature a veterinary piece, updates from guide dog training programs and our advocacy component will prepare everyone for this year's resolutions. The NAGDU annual business meeting will take place on Thursday, July 8th 2021, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM ET. During the business meeting we will hold our annual elections, hear from our legal department, and learn about all the things NAGDU has been up to over the past year. Please use the below link to register. Registration will close at midnight Eastern July 6. Remember, to be eligible for door prizes, you must register. We are looking forward to seeing everyone in July:https://bit.ly/2T5FWBI
13) National Federation of the Blind 2021 National Convention
July 6th 2021 through July 10th 2021 | Register for free to attend the largest gathering of blind people and take advantage of the opportunity to network with thousands of blind role models, connect with leaders in the field of blindness, attend presentations on a variety of empowering topics, and learn about the latest in technology and innovation. Learn more and register here:https://www.nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention
14) How To Fully Utilize Clubhouse, Facebook and Zoom | Technology User Group
July 10th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | On Saturday, July 10th 2021, the Technology User Group prepares you to fully utilize Clubhouse Facebook and Zoom. Whether you attend Zoom meetings or pursue other avenues of socialization, we all want to share and enjoy the benefits that Zoom, Clubhouse and Facebook can bring. Unmuting a microphone at the wrong time or posting in the wrong edit field can be a humbling experience. Please join us as we help you to avoid mistakes and transform you into a master of your social universe. The presentation will be virtual and may be joined by calling (319) 527-4994 📱️. You do not have to RSVP for this event. The presentation will begin at 10:00 AM ET and last about 90 minutes. We look forward to meeting with you virtually on Saturday, July 10th, and hope that you will join us for other exciting events we have planned for 202115) 2021 ACB Virtual Conference and Convention | Registration Information and Browse Conference and Convention Sessions
July 16th 2021 through July 23rd 2021 Registration is now open. If you wish, you can now browse the seminars, workshops, meetings, programs, and social events that are scheduled before you actually register. Registration will remain open to June 28, 2021, but before you register, there is an important task each of you must undertake if you plan on registering. ACB is moving ever closer to a singular login and password that will apply to all ACB websites and web-based functions. If you intend on registering for the convention this year, please go to https://members.acb.org/ to create your ACB account. Select "CREATE AN ACCOUNT" and complete the profile information requested. You will need to create a new username and password (if you wish, you can use the same username and password you used for past conventions when creating this new account). There is one exception: If you registered for the ACB Holiday Auction in December 2020, you have already created an account and you do not have to do so again. If you have problems or questions regarding this process, please call the Minnesota Finance Office at (612) 332-3242 📱️. You will use this new username and password when you register on or after May 20, 2021. To make sure you receive the most up to date information, subscribe to our convention announce list by sending a blank email to acbconvention+subscribe@acblists.org 📧️ or contact Janet Dickelman, convention coordinator at janet.dickelman@gmail.com 📧️ or by phone at (651) 428-5059 📱️.https://acbconvention.org/?p=61
➜ Surveys
1) NVDA Satisfaction Survey 2021
Close Date: June 25th 2021 | NV Access are pleased to invite you to participate in the NVDA Satisfaction Survey 2021. As in previous years, this is a simple, three-question survey, open to NVDA users and testers around the world:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1_6qHLmpFPvt4TwWUgVcuzHNxPI45BAdjGjvAD0GFVx8/edit?ts=60a394d2
2) David Goldfield's 1st Annual 2021 Tech-VI Listserv Subscriber Survey
Close Date: June 30th 2021 | This is an invitation to provide your feedback about this list by taking our First Annual Tech-VI Subscriber Survey. This survey is completely anonymous. In fact, I have deliberately not asked for names and email addresses to allow participants to feel totally comfortable in providing both positive as well as constructive feedback. None of the questions require that you submit a response and most are ones where you can jot down your thoughts in a multiline edit field, giving you as much space as you would like to tell me what is working as well as how the list can be improved. Again, all submissions are anonymous and any question can be skipped. Just make sure that you activate the Submit button if you want your feedback to be seen. Comments will not be published to this or any other list:https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=DQSIkWdsW0yxEjajBLZtrQAAAAAAAAAAAAMAANEiuHBUMjYzVEpYVjZIVElKVUI3MEk4UEozUERUSC4u&wdLOR=cC5A76114-D3FC-4F84-80EA-68B694A51C78
3) PolyPad Braille Display Needs Assessment
Close Date: July 1st 2021 | Participants must be 18 years or older to participate and able to read braille. We hope that our research will lead to a high quality multi-lined braille display that can be used with a smartphone. Researchers will investigate the quality and usefulness of the product and use the information to improve the development of the device:https://calstatela.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2fPVm4hlLE5hQhg
4) Access Technology in the Workplace
Close Date: July 1st 2021 | Open Date: Now Open | Survey Information: a. The NRTC is recruiting people with blindness or low vision (age 21+) who are working or interested in working to be part of a 5-year study about access technology (AT) use, particularly in the workplace. Some questions we will seek answers to are: i. What AT do you most commonly use? ii. How do you decide whether to use a specific AT? iii. What are your AT challenges? iv. What AT do you need that isn't currently available? b. We want to know YOUR thoughts and experiences! Participation will involve completing multiple surveys to help us determine how AT use is changing over time. Fill out the online pre-screening survey to see if you qualify! 5. Survey Rewards Offered: a. if selected from this pre-screening survey, you'll receive a small gift card after completing each survey. Additionally, the NRTC will share study results with participants:https://msstatecoe.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8i98Qap5V441mdg?source=27
5) Paid Opportunity to Participate in a Research Study: Studying Tools to Manage and Share Pictures
Close Date: July 16th 2021 | We are a group of researchers at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. We are conducting research to help blind people and people with visual impairments (BVI people) share pictures to social media free of private and sensitive information. We have designed a mobile App to let BVI users screen private and sensitive information of their about-to-share pictures using artificial intelligence (AI) and human effort. Participants must be 18 years of age or older to participate in this research study. Those who complete the study will receive a $20 compensation and $10 for exit interview. Learn more here:https://ischoolillinois.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0vVmhfJViHruycS
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Focus 14 Blue 5th Gen Braille Display
Listing Date: 6/17/2021 | Price: $600.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: One gently used 14-Cell Bluetooth Braille Display in excellent condition. | Contact: larry.lewis@flying-blind.com 📧️ |2) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions
➜ 3 Easy Steps To Accessible Shared Content For Your Remote Presentations: Rid Digital Darkness For Blind Attendee's Forever!
https://scribeformeetings.com/
Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
Sponsor: Commtech USA
➜ Training to Fit Your Needs
https://commtechusa.net/store
Sponsor Since: April 22nd 2021
Website: https://commtechusa.net/ 🌐
Phone: (833) 345-8324 📱️
About: Commtech USA, a division of Commtech LLC is a Phoenix based national assistive technology company, with locations in Bakersfield CA. We deliver unmatched information technology and assistive technology consultations, training and support. Founded in 2005 as a government vendor fulfilling a vast range of technology needs of federal and state government clients, Commtech USA has expanded to meet the needs of businesses as well as individuals, with office locations across the nation. No issue is too large or too small for our staff, Commtech USA is the on call technology staff you call when you have tried the rest but need the best!
Book an appointment with Commtech.
Meet the Commtech USA Staff in this YouTube video.
Download The App (iOS):
Commtech USA for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Commtech USA for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ VisionAware Resources Including the Information and Referral Line
https://visionaware.org/
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/070120211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ Everyone Can Have an Amazing Customer Experience with SuperNova Kiosks!
https://youtu.be/ZoLjah3Wb74
Sponsor Since: January 28th 2021
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Phone (USA & Canada): +1 (866) 797-5921 📱️
Phone (UK, Europe & Asia): +44 01905 754577 📱️
Phone (Nordic & Baltic Contries): +46 0515 82175 📱️
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of GuideConnect
GuideConnect Trial
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of SuperNova
SuperNova Trial
About: Dolphin Computer Access offers a wide array of solutions for students, people in the workforce, and at home who are blind, visually impaired or have dyslexia. Each product is purposefully designed to help users, with varying levels of technology experience, do everyday things EASILY on computers and tablets. Founded in 1986 and located in Worcester England, Dolphin has grown to become a global market leader worldwide.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ Accessible Pharmacy Joins Be My Eyes
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Build A Foundational Understanding Of Construction And Electronics With BRIC: Structures® Access Kit From APH - An Adapted Version Of An Educational Elenco® Product For Students Who Are Blind And Visually Impaired!
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ GuideLights and Gadgets Invites You to Listen, Learn and Buy from our Selection of Leather, Gadgets, and Dog Products
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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 Martineau
➜ Voice Training
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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.
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, June 17, 2021 - Volume 811 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, June 17, 2021 - Volume 811
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Explore a Galaxy of Possibilities with Juno, a New Handheld Video Magnifier with Optical Character Recognition (OCR) from APH!
Portable and easy to use, Juno is a powerful handheld video magnifier packed with features, allowing customization for users across the low vision spectrum. Capture and process multiple pages of printed text using OCR. Read text on Juno's 7-inch touch LCD screen with 2x-30x magnification and 24 high-contrast color modes, or have it read aloud with text-to-speech.
A rotating barrel camera and five camera modes support work and recreational activities for all ages. Touch up your eyeshadow with self-view; study your textbooks in reading view; and view a whiteboard with distance-view. Complete paperwork with writing-view, and relax with hobby-view by sewing or making your favorite recipe.
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Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) JAWS Power Tip: Virtualize Current Control: (7.1% of all clicks.)https://www.toptechtidbits.com/32.html
B.) What Is Amazon Sidewalk and How Do You Disable It?: (6.5% of all clicks.)
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/what-is-amazon-sidewalk-and-how-do-you-disable-it
C.) All the Top Features Coming to Your iPhone This Fall: (5.7% of all clicks.)
https://www.wired.com/story/apple-iphone-ios-15-ipados-15-new-features/
D.) AppleVis on WWDC: (4.8% of all clicks.)
https://www.applevis.com/blog/summary-apples-2021-worldwide-developers-conference-keynote-presentation
E.) Review of Smartphone Apps and Resources for People with Vision Loss or Impairment: (3.9% of all clicks.)
https://visionaware.org/blog/visionaware-blog/review-of-online-guide-smartphone-apps-and-resources-for-people-with-vision-loss-or-impairment/
2) Version 2.5 of Inclusion Code Now Available
Version 2.5 of Inclusion Code is now available and integrates Markdown integration as one of its main updates. Inclusion Code is a simple HTML and Markdown editor for Windows that facilitates the creation of content by automating the creation of tags. The user selects the desired element from the Insert Menu and the program will generate the corresponding codes and copy them into the editor. So you can create HTML and Markdown content in a very short time. Inclusion Code was designed to be an educational tool that facilitates learning and creation of HTML content and Markdown documents. The program interface is a simple one with menu bars, which uses standard Windows controls, making it accessible to screen reader programs and braille displays used by blind persons. Inclusion Code is compatible with JAWS, Narrator and NVDA screen readers. In this new update, it is now possible to write accessible documents in Markdown and export them to Word or Power Point. Learn more at:https://inclusioncode.com/
3) Top Tech Tidbits Seeks New Subscribe Address for "The New Windows 10 And JAWS Mailing List"
A reader has written in to let us know that the email address listed for subscribing to this Listserv, "The New Windows 10 And JAWS Mailing List" at the-new-windows-10-and-jaws-group+subscribe@groups.io 📧️, returns a non-existent address message. We are therefore seeking contact information for the moderator of this Listserv in order to update this address. Please note that if we are unable to reach anyone within one week we will have no choice but to remove this Listserv from the Top Tech Tidbits BVI Listserv Directory. Thank you for your help!publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️
4) Audio Documentation on 1Password
This $49 tutorial from Mystic Access explains the popular password manager, and discounts for it are available with some purchases:https://www.mysticaccess.com/product/audio-documentation-on-1password/
5) Digging into Apple's iCloud Private Relay
How does the new iCloud feature compare to a VPN?https://www.macobserver.com/tips/deep-dive/digging-into-apples-icloud-private-relay/
6) How to Fix Windows 10 with a 30-Minute Repair Install
Courtesy of Tom's Hardware:https://www.tomshardware.com/how-to/fix-windows-10-repair-install
7) Coding With Mantis Q40
APH sells this device, so you expect them to promote it, but so do a lot of us!https://www.aph.org/coding-with-the-mantis-q40/
8) Some iOS 15 Features Require an iPhone XS or Newer
A lot of phones will be able to install iOS 15, but not all phones will be able to make use of all the new features of the iOS:https://9to5mac.com/2021/06/14/ios-15-exclusive-features-newer-iphones/
9) Apple Announces 2021 Apple Design Award Winners
Congratulations to Voice Dream Reader and Be My Eyes who are among the winners:https://techcrunch.com/2021/06/10/apple-announces-its-2021-apple-design-award-winners/?guccounter=1
10) Top Collapsible Electronic Video Magnifiers 2021
New England Low Vision Compiles This and Other "Top Ten" Lists:https://nelowvision.com/2021/06/07/top-collapsible-electronic-video-magnifiers-2021/
11) JAWS Scripts for Zoom and Teams
Brian Hartgen continues to update his JAWS scripts for these two programs, providing high-quality access at a reasonable cost. Learn about the Zoom scripts here:http://www.hartgen.org/zoompro
And about scripts for Microsoft Teams here:
http://hartgen.org/teamsscripts
12) New Version of Braille Blaster
The free braillle translation program has received significant updates:https://brailleblaster.org/download.php
13) Notepad++ 8.0 Has Been Released
Notepad++ is a popular choice on Windows devices when it comes to the replacement of the built-in plain text editor Notepad. The open source application improves plain text editing on Windows PCs significantly. It supports tabs, better search functionality, themes, plugins, auto-complete, programming languages and their syntax, and more:https://www.ghacks.net/2021/06/07/notepad-8-0-has-been-released/
14) Security Flaws Found in Samsung's Stock Mobile Apps
A mobile security startup has found seven security flaws in Samsung's pre-installed mobile apps, which it says if abused could have allowed attackers broad access to a victim's personal data:https://techcrunch.com/2021/06/10/security-flaws-found-in-samsungs-stock-mobile-apps/
15) Microsoft Videos That Demonstrate Concisely How To Create Accessible Microsoft 365 Documents
These very well made videos come directly from the Microsoft Support website and concisely demonstrate how to create accessible Microsoft 365 documents. Most of them are under 4 minutes long, and many readers have reported them to be a helpful bite-size resource to share with colleagues, friends, faculty, staff or students:https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/accessibility-video-training-71572a1d-5656-4e01-8fce-53e35c3caaf4
16) HoloLens 2: Enhanced Vision Trough Augmented Reality
Microsoft's HoloLens glasses proved to be a life-changing tool for people with vision impairment. Enhancing vision by projecting bright colors onto the retina, the glasses yielded amazing results in a 2019 study for patients with retinitis pigmentosa. They increased mobility by 50 percent and grasping of nearby objects by 70 percent. The glasses also improved users' vision in low light. The HoloLens 2 headset claims to be even better. It not only has a wider field of view, but its wireless carbon fiber construction makes it three times more comfortable to wear:https://www.eastersealstech.com/2021/06/08/hololens-2-enhanced-vision-through-augmented-reality/
17) Communicate Freely With Instant Language Assistant (ILA)
The ILA device allows users to speak or type a word or phrase. Then, the conversation is instantly transcribed and shown to both people in real time. This device can also be translated into more than 120 languages and dialects. While it can certainly be used to bridge language barriers, the ILA was originally built to help people with disabilities:https://www.eastersealstech.com/2021/06/10/communicate-freely-with-instant-language-assistant-ila/
18) UK Petition To Make Audio Description Available on ALL Films, TV Programmes and Streaming Services
Currently, TV channels and film networks have to only provide audio description to 10% of its films and TV shows. But we want to increase this to 100% so blind and partially sighted people can access all the same films and programmes as the sighted community:https://www.change.org/p/make-audio-description-available-on-all-films-tv-programmes-and-streaming-services
19) Tutorial From Mystic Access: The Wonderful World of Windows 10: $75.00
Mystic Access wishes to support you in learning the Windows 10 operating system from a blindness perspective. Start with the basics, take a deep dive into the primary concepts and features, and shatter all those misconceptions you may have about this version of the Windows platform. Comprehensive audio documentation including examples, demos and thorough explanations and instruction. Please read below for the full description:https://www.mysticaccess.com/product/discover-the-wonderful-world-of-windows-10/
20) iOS Tips And Tricks Tutorial. Learn To Optimize And Utilize Some Great Features On Your Apple iPad, iPhone, Or iPod: $79.00
This four-hour tutorial, intended for users who already have a basic grasp of iDevice use, costs $79, or you can get it free or at a reduced cost if you buy Apple products from the company:https://harboltcompany.com/iOS-Tips-and-Tricks-Tutorial-Lern-to-Optimize-and-Utilize-Some-Great-Features-on-Your-Apple-iPad-iPhone-or-iPod.html
21) Infovox4 Speech Product From Acapela Losing Support In July 2022
https://www.acapela-group.com/solutions/infovox-4/22) 8 iPhone Accessibility Features for People With Vision Problems
These iPhone settings can make your device easier to use if you are a user with blindness or vision loss:https://www.makeuseof.com/iphone-accessibility-features-for-people-with-vision-problems/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Accessibility Experts Compile Top 10 List of Inclusive UK Tourist Hotpots
Home adaptations specialist Invisible Creations has compiled a list of the most inclusive UK tourist hotspots as the weather heats up:https://www.accessandmobilityprofessional.com/accessibility-experts-compile-top-10-list-of-inclusive-tourist-hotpots/
2) UserWay Releases AI-Powered Accessibility Widget for Shopify Stores
UserWay is the first to solve a widespread accessibility issue that excludes visually impaired users and costs millions in lost sales annually:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/userway-releases-ai-powered-accessibility-widget-for-shopify-stores-301312495.html
3) Legally Blind Bryan, Ohio Man Details Journey To 20/20 Vision With Technology
For Bryan, Ohio resident Benjamin Murray, life is finally clear - but for the first 26 years of his life it wasn't. He was born legally blind with optic nerve atrophy. "I was passed from doctor to doctor, ophthalmologist to ophthalmologist," Murray recalled. In August 2015, he heard about a breakthrough technology called eSight, an additional pair of smart glasses that gives the visually impaired 2020 vision. It fits to a patient's head and can be worn over glasses:https://nbc24.com/news/local/legally-blind-bryan-man-details-journey-to-2020-vision
4) Mojo Vision's Smart Contact Lens Could Be Transformative For Sight Impaired
Mojo Vision, a Saratoga, California-based startup is seeking to improve the lives of people living with sight loss by launching a smart contact lens that can overlay information on the real world and augment what the wearer sees:https://www.forbes.com/sites/gusalexiou/2021/06/13/mojo-visions-smart-contact-lens-could-be-transformative-for-sight-impaired/?sh=4ae6b01956c8
5) Fighting Ableism Is About Much More Than Attitudes And Awareness
Even after decades of progress against ableism, people with disabilities still face significant barriers to social inclusion, equal opportunity, health and safety, and financial security. And while some of the most visible efforts to continue the fight focus on changing ableist habits and attitudes, the most harmful and persistent barriers disabled people face are still distinctly structural:https://www.forbes.com/sites/andrewpulrang/2021/06/14/fighting-ableism-is-about-much-more-than-attitudes-and-awareness/?sh=6d649b6a19c0
6) Honda Developing Shoe-Based Navi System For Visually Impaired
Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced a new firm called Ashirase, Inc. It's the first startup that came from Ignition, Honda's new business creation program. Ashirase, Inc.'s first technologically advanced product is quite revolutionary, but it isn't for cars. The company is developing an in-shoe navigation system to support visually impaired individuals with walking. Honda aims to begin sales of the system, which is also named Ashirase, by March 2023:https://www.motor1.com/news/513570/honda-ashirase-shoe-based-navigation/
7) Visually Impaired Veterans Use Vibrations to Kayak
VRG or Vibrio-remote Tactile Guidance is a new system being used to train the visually impaired how to enjoy the sport of kayaking:https://www.wkrg.com/news/visually-impaired-veterans-use-vibrations-to-kayak/
8) What Stevie Wonder Can Teach The World About Accessible Design
Let's start with an obvious statement: Stevie Wonder's done some amazing things throughout his career. He's won 25 Grammy awards. He's been awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Civil Rights Museum. He's been named one of the United Nations' Messengers of Peace. And, in 2014, Barack Obama awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom. But for all of those achievements, there's one specific moment in Stevie Wonder's career that especially sticks in our minds:https://www.august.com.au/blog/what-stevie-wonder-can-teach-accessible-inclusive-design/
9) Medical Student's Smartphone App For The Blind Makes College Of Engineering Competition Finals
A smartphone app that helps blind and visually impaired users better navigate their surroundings in public, designed by a School of Medicine student, is one of five finalists in the Wayne State University College of Engineering's Mobility for All competition. The finalists are competing for the top prize of $10,000 to fund their innovations:https://today.wayne.edu/medicine/news/2021/06/11/medical-students-smartphone-app-for-the-blind-makes-college-of-engineering-competition-finals-42706
10) Horror Flight Simulator HAUNTED SPACE Shows Off Gameplay And Reveals How It's Handicap-Friendly
While it is always great to see some gameplay for an upcoming title, it is even better when the news around it isn't quite what you would have expected. Merge Games has shared the latest gameplay trailer, but developers Italian Games Factory has included some interesting detail about Haunted Space regarding its accessibility to interested players:http://gametyrant.com/news/horror-flight-simulator-haunted-space-shows-off-gameplay-and-reveals-how-its-handicap-friendly
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther | Giant Catfish and Fishing Blind
June 11th 2021 | Fishing blind or blind fishing — it all depends on who's doing the fishing. ON Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther, Ms Lilly tells us where to go to catch the biggest catfish in Canada, and has some giant catfish stories, including how to noodle to catch catfish. Dr. Catfish calls in to tell listeners about his new book featuring his favorite catfish fishing rigs and invites listeners to join his blind fishing email list. Lawrence shares his fishing tips and reflects on fishing with his dad. This year let's all celebrate Father's Day by going fishing!https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/outdoors-with-lawrence-gunther/id1530444764
2) Blind Android Users 27 | Rave that TTS Engine!
June 13th 2021 | We thanked Top Tech Tidbits for promoting the show for so long and asked our listeners to subscribe to the newsletter. We discuss one plus Summer launch event and launch of One Plus Nord CE and U1S 4K TV. We also warn our listeners about bugs found in stock apps of Samsung phones including Samsung nocks. We demo some of the most popular TTS engines. We have episode 5 of commentary screen reader in which we explored the user center. Then we demo UK pub app Wetherspoon which will help our UK listeners:https://blindandroidusers.com/
3) That Real Blind Tech Show 39 | The Ultimate Sonos Demo! A Demo of the New Sonos Roam, Sonos App, and Lyd for Sonos
June 13th 2021Brian is flying solo once again for another That Real Blind Tech show demo. On this episode Brian demos the Sonos Roam along with the Sonos app, and a third party Watch App called Lyd that really compliments the Sonos system quite well, and gives you complete control of your Sonos system from your Apple Watch:
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-39-the-ultimate-sonos-demo-a-demo-of-the-new-sonos-roam-sonos-app-and-lyd-for-sonos
4) Mosen At Large 132
June 14th 2021 New Zealand broadcasting and entertainment icon, Don Linden:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/c20acdd9/new-zealand-broadcasting-and-entertainment-icon-don-linden
5) Say My Meme | Online Dating Memes
June 15th 2021We all feel like Jokers on dating apps sometimes. But what's the difference between Joaquin Phoenix and a guy posing with his lawnmower? Say My Meme is here to investigate, with some choice online dating memes to lighten your load and get you ready for your own "Hot Vax Summer:"
https://www.bemyeyes.com/podcasts/online-dating-memes
6) Eyes on Success 2125 | GoodMaps Indoor Navigation Aid
June 16th 2021GPS technologies and apps are a great asset in helping the blind navigate and become more mobile. Unfortunately, GPS is only effective in navigating outdoors. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Mike May about the new GoodMaps app and how it has overcome technical challenges faced by other approaches to indoor navigation in the past:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202125.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Word Tips and Tricks from Power Users | Freedom Scirentific
June 17th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Do you want to increase your proficiency in Word? Need tips for quickly navigating to items you use the most? Join us with our special guests Eric Damery and Matt Ater for this live webinar. We will demonstrate useful features, and show you how to: Turn off the Backstage menu, Use the traditional Save and Open dialog boxes, Use the F6 key to navigate to different areas in Word, Toggle between the Single-line and Multi-line Ribbon, Check word count statistics and virtualizing this information, Use or disable the Paste Recovery Table, and Create headings in a document. *ACVREP credits will be available for those who attend the live webinar:https://zoom.us/webinar/register/tJUpd-2prTsvHdDTB3CGZyJnkD4zkKfnFn3A/success?user_id=URXsB95VQnmFasYMycFEtQ&timezone_id=America%2FNew_York
2) Career Technical Education: More than Workshop Classes | APH Webinar
June 22nd 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Think Career and Technical Education (CTE) is only vocational classes? Think again! Attend this webinar series and not only dispel misconceptions about CTE coursework, but also discover how students with Visual Impairments can actively engage in developing career specific skills with positive work outcomes:https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_JeIxi5-ESmOpZcd-hl6jLQ
3) Monitoring Your Blood Sugar Levels with Low or No Vision | APH Webinar
June 23rd 2021 | 2:30PM PT, 3:30PM MT, 4:30PM CT, 5:30PM ET, 9:30PM GMT | This webinar will explore the importance of monitoring your blood glucose levels. We will provide information and demonstrations of talking blood glucose meters, and how to make continuous glucose monitors (CGM) accessible. Also, if you have trouble getting blood on the test strip, join this webinar to learn some helpful tips:https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_kmIYXcemTTCLpFRdvVW7nw?_x_zm_rtaid=0bwQ5NILTpG8baNMazsMew.1623727114839.52fa631017c46ca98b444653ced1bc90&_x_zm_rhtaid=840
4) Introduction to Dramatic Writing Part 2: Energize Your Writing With Audiojack | APH Webinar
June 23rd 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Join APH as the journey continues in the second webinar in this dramatic writing series. Get inspired by Audiojack, sound-based movies with no words to mindfully engage your imagination, and learn the basics of writing a dialogue. Whether you joined us for part one or are starting with part two, you'll learn strategies to inspire your students and build creative writing skills:https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_h8NESFlUSg6zA0gZ4SsUsQ
5) Deaf Student Access: Tips & Resources for Reopening Campus
June 24th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Join the NDC | Help Team for this live presentation covering the most frequently asked questions about access and accommodations in a variety of formats. Though COVID-19 cases seem to be going down with rising vaccination rates, the fall 2021 semester will still be littered with uncertainty. Schools are planning for a variety of class formats — in-person, online, hybrid. Planning for all the different options also includes designing accessible environments. Register here:https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_bsmLHNK6QMmU1fDA4ijZ0Q
6) 1st World Blindness Summit 2021
June 25th 2021 through June 30th 2021 | You are hereby invited to the first World Blindness Summit, an online and fully accessible event from June 25th to 30th 2021, open to everyone. What is the World Blindness Summit 21? This is a cutting-edge and innovative event that embraces the benefits of technologies, creating the first global and accessible online conference. Why is it unique? Over 1,000 blind and partially sighted people from nearly 190 countries over the world will participate to share their experiences and practices developed over the past five years, and especially those implemented to cope with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in all spheres of life. Who can participate? Everyone is welcome to attend, to participate, to listen, to talk, and to share this unique experience. All events of the World Blindness Summit are available in English, French and Spanish. Why is it interesting to participate? The achievements and challenges experienced will be analyzed, priorities will be set in this new era beginning by working hard to prevent blind and partially sighted people from being left behind in the digital revolution that has made such great progress in the past months. On the other hand, new strategies will be worked on to give visibility to our reality and above all, to promote everything that contributes to the substantiation of a central goal: to create a new vision of blindness, to enable everyone to fully participate in all aspect of our society. You can check the program here: https://www.worldblindnesssummit.com/en/schedule/program. It is all free and you have to register here by 5th June:https://www.worldblindnesssummit.com/en/inscription
7) The Road Ahead: Career Readiness for Middle School Students | APH Webinar
June 25th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | The employment rate for individuals with visual impairments is approximately 37% and remains relatively unchanged for decades. The Road Ahead webinar series guides educators to move beyond triaged transition planning with the goal of changing the trajectory for all students. Attend this webinar to better understand what is meant by career readiness skills for middle school age students, identify ways to guide students to discover suitable careers, and how to embed career readiness skills within all areas of the Expanded Core Curriculum:https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Vp5KWvMESYeMEAhNoJkNdw
8) TPGi Webinar: Undertaking JAWS Screen Reader Compatibility Testing in Real Life
June 29th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Experience a real-world scenario exhibiting the synergy between the JAWS screen reader and TPGi's JAWS compatibility testing tool, JAWS Inspect, as part of the accessibility QA process. Webinar attendees will observe the interaction between a real JAWS user struggling with a poorly designed web page and a TPGi accessibility tester making sense of the JAWS user's accessibility challenges via the power of JAWS Inspect:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-june-29-undertaking-jaws-screen-reader-compatibility-testing-in-real-life/
9) Career Technical Education: More than Workshop Classes | APH Webinar
June 29th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Think Career and Technical Education (CTE) is only vocational classes? Think again! Attend this webinar series and not only dispel misconceptions about CTE coursework, but also discover how students with Visual Impairments can actively engage in developing career specific skills with positive work outcomes:https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_JeIxi5-ESmOpZcd-hl6jLQ
10) Reaping the Benefits! Using Reaper Audio Workstation, OSARA and JAWS for Windows
June 30th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT, 7PM UK | This £80 / $112 USD course is suited to anyone who has an interest in creating or working with audio content. You should be familiar with how JAWS functions together with Windows concepts, such as how to navigate around applications. The course is fast-paced. There will be plenty of opportunities to ask questions regarding the topics under discussion, however this is achieved in a structured manner. This ensures that you can focus on learning the concepts being taught. All of your remaining questions answered here:http://www.hartgen.org/reaper
11) National Association of Guide Dog Users 2021 Annual Seminar
July 6th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | The seminar committee has been working hard to ensure that our seminar will be filled with great information, and of course our traditional door prizes. This year's theme is "Celebrating Puppy Raisers Everywhere." In addition, the seminar will feature a veterinary piece, updates from guide dog training programs and our advocacy component will prepare everyone for this year's resolutions. The NAGDU annual business meeting will take place on Thursday, July 8th 2021, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM ET. During the business meeting we will hold our annual elections, hear from our legal department, and learn about all the things NAGDU has been up to over the past year. Please use the below link to register. Registration will close at midnight Eastern July 6. Remember, to be eligible for door prizes, you must register. We are looking forward to seeing everyone in July:https://bit.ly/2T5FWBI
12) National Federation of the Blind 2021 National Convention
July 6th 2021 through July 10th 2021 | Register for free to attend the largest gathering of blind people and take advantage of the opportunity to network with thousands of blind role models, connect with leaders in the field of blindness, attend presentations on a variety of empowering topics, and learn about the latest in technology and innovation. Learn more and register here:https://www.nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention
13) 2021 ACB Virtual Conference and Convention | Registration Information and Browse Conference and Convention Sessions
July 16th 2021 through July 23rd 2021 Registration is now open. If you wish, you can now browse the seminars, workshops, meetings, programs, and social events that are scheduled before you actually register. Registration will remain open to June 28, 2021, but before you register, there is an important task each of you must undertake if you plan on registering. ACB is moving ever closer to a singular login and password that will apply to all ACB websites and web-based functions. If you intend on registering for the convention this year, please go to https://members.acb.org/ to create your ACB account. Select "CREATE AN ACCOUNT" and complete the profile information requested. You will need to create a new username and password (if you wish, you can use the same username and password you used for past conventions when creating this new account). There is one exception: If you registered for the ACB Holiday Auction in December 2020, you have already created an account and you do not have to do so again. If you have problems or questions regarding this process, please call the Minnesota Finance Office at (612) 332-3242 📱️. You will use this new username and password when you register on or after May 20, 2021. To make sure you receive the most up to date information, subscribe to our convention announce list by sending a blank email to acbconvention+subscribe@acblists.org 📧️ or contact Janet Dickelman, convention coordinator at janet.dickelman@gmail.com 📧️ or by phone at (651) 428-5059 📱️.https://acbconvention.org/?p=61
➜ Surveys
1) NVDA Satisfaction Survey 2021
Close Date: June 25th 2021 | NV Access are pleased to invite you to participate in the NVDA Satisfaction Survey 2021. As in previous years, this is a simple, three-question survey, open to NVDA users and testers around the world:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1_6qHLmpFPvt4TwWUgVcuzHNxPI45BAdjGjvAD0GFVx8/edit?ts=60a394d2
2) David Goldfield's 1st Annual 2021 Tech-VI Listserv Subscriber Survey
Close Date: June 30th 2021 | This is an invitation to provide your feedback about this list by taking our First Annual Tech-VI Subscriber Survey. This survey is completely anonymous. In fact, I have deliberately not asked for names and email addresses to allow participants to feel totally comfortable in providing both positive as well as constructive feedback. None of the questions require that you submit a response and most are ones where you can jot down your thoughts in a multiline edit field, giving you as much space as you would like to tell me what is working as well as how the list can be improved. Again, all submissions are anonymous and any question can be skipped. Just make sure that you activate the Submit button if you want your feedback to be seen. Comments will not be published to this or any other list:https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=DQSIkWdsW0yxEjajBLZtrQAAAAAAAAAAAAMAANEiuHBUMjYzVEpYVjZIVElKVUI3MEk4UEozUERUSC4u&wdLOR=cC5A76114-D3FC-4F84-80EA-68B694A51C78
3) PolyPad Braille Display Needs Assessment
Close Date: July 1st 2021 | Participants must be 18 years or older to participate and able to read braille. We hope that our research will lead to a high quality multi-lined braille display that can be used with a smartphone. Researchers will investigate the quality and usefulness of the product and use the information to improve the development of the device:https://calstatela.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2fPVm4hlLE5hQhg
4) Access Technology in the Workplace
Close Date: July 1st 2021 | Open Date: Now Open | Survey Information: a. The NRTC is recruiting people with blindness or low vision (age 21+) who are working or interested in working to be part of a 5-year study about access technology (AT) use, particularly in the workplace. Some questions we will seek answers to are: i. What AT do you most commonly use? ii. How do you decide whether to use a specific AT? iii. What are your AT challenges? iv. What AT do you need that isn't currently available? b. We want to know YOUR thoughts and experiences! Participation will involve completing multiple surveys to help us determine how AT use is changing over time. Fill out the online pre-screening survey to see if you qualify! 5. Survey Rewards Offered: a. if selected from this pre-screening survey, you'll receive a small gift card after completing each survey. Additionally, the NRTC will share study results with participants:https://msstatecoe.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8i98Qap5V441mdg?source=27
5) Paid Opportunity to Participate in a Research Study: Studying Tools to Manage and Share Pictures
Close Date: July 16th 2021 | We are a group of researchers at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. We are conducting research to help blind people and people with visual impairments (BVI people) share pictures to social media free of private and sensitive information. We have designed a mobile App to let BVI users screen private and sensitive information of their about-to-share pictures using artificial intelligence (AI) and human effort. Participants must be 18 years of age or older to participate in this research study. Those who complete the study will receive a $20 compensation and $10 for exit interview. Learn more here:https://ischoolillinois.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0vVmhfJViHruycS
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Focus 14 Blue 5th Gen Braille Display
Listing Date: 6/17/2021 | Price: $600.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: One gently used 14-Cell Bluetooth Braille Display in excellent condition. | Contact: larry.lewis@flying-blind.com 📧️ |2) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: Commtech USA
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About: Commtech USA, a division of Commtech LLC is a Phoenix based national assistive technology company, with locations in Bakersfield CA. We deliver unmatched information technology and assistive technology consultations, training and support. Founded in 2005 as a government vendor fulfilling a vast range of technology needs of federal and state government clients, Commtech USA has expanded to meet the needs of businesses as well as individuals, with office locations across the nation. No issue is too large or too small for our staff, Commtech USA is the on call technology staff you call when you have tried the rest but need the best!
Book an appointment with Commtech.
Meet the Commtech USA Staff in this YouTube video.
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Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ VisionAware Resources: The Benefits of Working: Navigating SSI/SSDI While Seeking Employment
https://aphconnectcenter.org/
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/070120211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
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Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ Everyone Can Have an Amazing Customer Experience with SuperNova Kiosks!
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Sponsor Since: January 28th 2021
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Phone (USA & Canada): +1 (866) 797-5921 📱️
Phone (UK, Europe & Asia): +44 01905 754577 📱️
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About: Dolphin Computer Access offers a wide array of solutions for students, people in the workforce, and at home who are blind, visually impaired or have dyslexia. Each product is purposefully designed to help users, with varying levels of technology experience, do everyday things EASILY on computers and tablets. Founded in 1986 and located in Worcester England, Dolphin has grown to become a global market leader worldwide.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ Accessible Pharmacy Joins Be My Eyes
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Build A Foundational Understanding Of Construction And Electronics With BRIC: Structures® Access Kit From APH - An Adapted Version Of An Educational Elenco® Product For Students Who Are Blind And Visually Impaired!
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ GuideLights and Gadgets Invites You to Listen, Learn and Buy from our Selection of Leather, Gadgets, and Dog Products
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
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For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub
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Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
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Skype: atguys ✆
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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 Martineau
➜ Voice Training
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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About: Dean Martineau is the Founder and a Contributing Editor to the Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter.
Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions
➜ 3 Easy Steps To Accessible Shared Content For Your Remote Presentations: Rid Digital Darkness For Blind Attendee's Forever!
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Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, June 10, 2021 - Volume 810 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, June 10, 2021 - Volume 810
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Get Your Orbit Readers and More Hot Tech from the A. T. Guys - Coupon Enclosed
A. T. Guys is celebrating Summer with some of the hottest tech of the year. We are pleased to feature the Orbit Reader 40 and 20 Plus, modern, affordable braille displays with crisp, signage-quality braille and on-board translation. We are expecting our next batch of units later this month and have a few spots open for your order. Make this the Summer of braille with A. T. Guys. Plus there's even more braille as the 9-line, 360-cell Canute braille eReader is back in stock. Get ready to start traveling again with our folding Bluetooth keyboard or our travel wall charger, or our ever-expanding line of Bluetooth headsets to wear on the go. Check out our loudest Bluetooth speaker yet, the 40-watt Stormbox Pro, or pair two of them together to make your party twice as nice. Plus, use coupon "tidbits21" to get free shipping on orders of $79 or more through June 20th 2021 for U.S. customers. Visit http://www.atguys.com/ or call (269) 216-4798 📱️. Or Email support@atguys.com 📧️ with questions, and happy Summer.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) The Best Speech to Text Software for Windows 10: (6.9% of all clicks.)https://www.online-tech-tips.com/software-reviews/the-best-speech-to-text-software-for-windows-10/
B.) Will Blind People Be Able to See Again in the Future Thanks to a Brain Implant?: (6.7% of all clicks.)
https://innovationorigins.com/en/brain-implant-enables-blind-people-to-see-again-in-the-future/
C.) Mantis and Chameleon Software Improvements New Features as of May 2021: (6.4% of all clicks.)
https://www.aph.org/mantis-and-chameleon-software-improvements/
D.) Writing with a Screen Reader: (5.8% of all clicks.)
https://annalodwick.wordpress.com/2021/05/20/writing-with-a-screen-reader/
E.) How to Listen to Radio Stations Online for Free: (5.7% of all clicks.)
https://www.online-tech-tips.com/cool-websites/how-to-listen-to-radio-stations-online-for-free/
2) Improved Tidbits Header Level Navigation Based on Feedback From Top Tech Tidbits Supporter
Based on feedback provided by one of our very own Top Tech Tidbits Supporters this issue of Tidbits changes the manner in which level headings are used. Prior to this Issue Tidbits newsletter sections held the same heading level (H3) as the information that they contained, making navigating between sections difficult without also navigating between the items within them. As of this Issue all newsletter sections remain at header level 3, however, all subsequent items within these sections have been moved to header level 4, thereby allowing for faster and more efficient navigation between sections. Newsletter sections currently include: Greeting (which represents the beginning of Tidbits), Press Releases and Other News, Featured Podcast Episodes, Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events, Surveys, Directories, and Buy, Sell or Trade. If you too have ideas for improving Tidbits, please feel free to share them with us. We welcome and value all manner of feedback. Sincerest thanks to this Tidbits Supporter for not just making Tidbits possible, but for making it better for everyone.publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️
3) ZoomText Power Tip: Give ZoomText Magnifier / Reader A Voice That You Like
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/33.html
4) David Goldfield's 1st Annual 2021 Tech-VI Listserv Subscriber Survey
Top Tech Tidbits picks up news items from this Listserv weekly. It is an incredibly informative resource for current news and trends in access technology. We salute David Goldfield both for the quality and the consistency of the news that he provides. If you aren't already subscribed to his list we highly recommend it. If you are already subscribed, David is asking for your feedback in this 1st Annual 2021 Tech-VI Listserv Subscriber Survey:https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=DQSIkWdsW0yxEjajBLZtrQAAAAAAAAAAAAMAANEiuHBUMjYzVEpYVjZIVElKVUI3MEk4UEozUERUSC4u&wdLOR=cC5A76114-D3FC-4F84-80EA-68B694A51C78
5) Get into Python | Quality Tool For Learning Python
This very well-written tool from JobTensor allows you to run real-time Python code right in your web browser as you study. The tool is designed for anyone who wants to learn the Python programming language, whether your are a beginner, or already a Pro. In addition to being free the tool contains no advertising or affiliate links:https://jobtensor.com/Tutorial/Python/en/Introduction
6) JAWS Power Tip: Virtualize Current Control
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/32.html
7) Attention Tidbits Content Contributors and Sponsors | How To Track Your Links in Tidbits
Perhaps one of the questions that we get asked the most here at Tidbits is, "can you tell me how many clicks my link(s) got?" Unfortunately we cannot. But that's okay. Because you wouldn't want us to anyway. Why? Because you would have no way to independently verify the information that we gave you. So we could, literally, be telling you anything. And that goes for anyone else providing you with metrics that you cannot independently verify. Okay you say. So how do I independently verify my own link traffic? There are many ways, but perhaps the easiest way, and therefore the way that we recommend the most to non-clients here at Mind Vault Solutions is to simply setup a free Bit.ly account. Bit.ly is a free online link shortening service. It takes any link that you provide it and turns it into a shortened one. In addition to shortening the link, which is generally useful for posting to networks like Twitter where every character counts, you will now also be able to independently verify all of the traffic received by that link. No matter where it goes. Forever. Just by logging into your Bit.ly account. All you have to do now is make sure you never use the unshortened version again and all of your link traffic will always be true, accurate and independently verified. No matter where you share the link. While Top Tech Tidbits currently reaches 6,718 direct subscribers, all over the world, each week, each issue is also shared across a variety of other networks as well, thereby amplifying the reach of all links contained within each issue. You can sign up for a free Bit.ly account here:https://bitly.com/a/sign_up
8) What Is Amazon Sidewalk and How Do You Disable It?
Compatible devices have been automatically enrolled in the new Amazon Sidewalk feature, which means you have to manually opt out if you don't want to participate. Learn more about Sidewalk from PC Mag using the link below. If you decide that you want to disable it you can do so from within the Alexa App under More / Settings / Account Settings / Amazon Sidewalk / On or Off:https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/what-is-amazon-sidewalk-and-how-do-you-disable-it
9) Microsoft To Unveil 'The Next Generation of Windows' on June 24th 2021
Microsoft has announced an event taking place on June 24th 2021 where it will unveil the next generation of Windows. The event will be online and will begin at 11:00 AM ET. The company is expected to unveil a new user interface and feature set for Windows, and possibly position this new version of Windows as, yeahp, you guessed it, "Windows 11:"https://www.windowscentral.com/microsoft-will-unveil-next-generation-windows-june-24
10) NVDA 2021.1 Beta2 Available for Testing
Beta2 of NVDA 2021.1 is now available for download and testing. For anyone who is interested in trying out what the next version of NVDA has to offer before it is officially released, we welcome you to download the beta and provide feedback:https://www.nvaccess.org/post/nvda-2021-1beta2/
11) NVDA 2021.1 and Community Add-Ons: Status Page Available
NVDA 2021.1 is currently available as a beta version. Third-party NVDA add-ons will need to be updated in order to maintain compatibility with this upcoming release. The following information is regarding the status of these add-ons. If you do not use add-ons then this information will not affect how you use NVDA. Many of you are wondering about whether or not your favorite NVDA add-ons will be ready for NVDA 2021.1. To answer this question, the add-ons community has prepared a status page listing add-ons hosted on community add-ons website and their NVDA 2021.1 compatibility status. If the add-on you have a question about is not part of the community add-ons page, but is maintained by a third-party, whether that's a company or individual, please direct questions regarding compatibility of these add-ons with NVDA 2021.1 to their respective maintainers. They are the only sources who can give you accurate information about their update/maintenance plans for these add-ons. Note that things can change without notice, and the page does not include newly added add-ons. Add-ons added to the community add-ons website in recent days will be included in the status page soon:https://addons.nvda-project.org/addons/nvdacompat.en.html
12) AppleVis on WWDC
There is a lot of excitement about the new features coming to iOS and the related operating systems in the fall. Here's an AppleVis blog post summarizing the keynote where they were announced:https://www.applevis.com/blog/summary-apples-2021-worldwide-developers-conference-keynote-presentation
And here's an AppleVis podcast about all this:
https://www.applevis.com/podcasts/applevis-extra-82-discussing-apples-wwdc-21-keynote
13) WWDC21 Breakdown
Trying to highlight sources we cite less often, here's the perspective from the RNIB Tech Talk podcast:https://audioboom.com/channel/techtalkpodcast
14) Parallel #52 on WWDC
Parallel describes itself as "A tech podcast with accessibility sprinkles."https://www.relay.fm/parallel/52
15) Podcast Transcript: Mosen At Large Episode 129, The WWDC Keynote from a Blindness Perspective
To end our coverage of WWDC recaps, Jonathan always puts together a thoughtful take on these Apple events, and this version is for those of us who prefer reading over listening, or who don't have a choice in the matter:https://mosen.org/malp0129transcript/
16) VSCode is Now Very Accessible
Visual Studio has become a useful product for blind developers:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JFeD2yBX8U0
17) Alexa Series from Hadley
There are six "workshops" about using the Echo devices:https://hadley.edu/workshops/alexa-series
18) Graphing Calculator in Prodigi 4.5
A HumanWare YouTube video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XiTMnShzxoQ
19) Review of Smartphone Apps and Resources for People with Vision Loss or Impairment
This is a review of an extensive online article, the link to which is found in the review:https://visionaware.org/blog/visionaware-blog/review-of-online-guide-smartphone-apps-and-resources-for-people-with-vision-loss-or-impairment/
20) iPhone101: Lists, Lists and More Lists
This podcast covers how to efficiently move in and out of long lists of messages:https://blindabilities.com/?p=6754
21) Microsoft Outlook for iOS Now Lets You Use Your Voice to Write Emails and More
We try to keep up with all voice input options:https://www.theverge.com/2021/6/8/22524014/microsoft-outlook-mobile-voice-dictation-emails-calendar
22) Bring Accessibility to Charts in Your App
In iOS15, the content of charts can be communicated even more effectively:https://developer.apple.com/videos/play/wwdc2021/10122/
23) Tips for Power Users on the Mac
This author contends that he can do more with his Mac than Windows users with JAWS and NVDA:https://www.applevis.com/forum/macos-mac-apps/tips-power-usersanyone-does-more-read-emailslight-web-browsing-be-more
24) All of David Woodbridge's Zoom Podtrack P4 Demos in one Podcast (MP3)
Two hours of material, indexed by chapter for easy navigation:https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/vx8zp9/Zoom_Podtrak_P4_all_demos_organised_by_Chapters7zvi6.mp3
25) New Features Added to ProdigiTM Software
Multiple new features have been added to the Prodigi software (version 4.5) for use with the Connect 12 and Reveal 16i:https://milled.com/humanware-uk/new-features-added-to-the-prodigi-software-AM6Un2HttQbIVseN
26) Best Windows Laptops with Full Number Pads 2021
Whether it's for data entry, accounting, or just entering numbers and calculations with precision and speed, there are plenty of reasons to have a number pad on a laptop. Even though laptops are getting smaller, you can still purchase several excellent laptops with full number pads. Every one of these devices has a full number pad, and each is one of the best Windows laptop picks in the category:https://www.windowscentral.com/best-windows-laptops-full-number-pads
27) All the Top Features Coming to Your iPhone This Fall
Apple just previewed iOS 15, the latest version of its mobile operating system. Here's what's new:https://www.wired.com/story/apple-iphone-ios-15-ipados-15-new-features/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Coding Color Into Sound: Hacking for Assistive Technology
Have you ever thought about what a bird sounds like? You're probably assuming I'm referring to a bird's audible song, but what if I told you there was more than one way to 'hear' an object? What if it was possible to hear things that don't physically produce a sound — like a sunset, or the night sky? It sounds a bit unconventional, but this type of outside-of-the-box thinking is exactly the kind of 'hacking' that Lenovo employees are up to these days:https://www.csrwire.com/press_releases/723576-coding-color-sound-hacking-assistive-technology
2) Echolocation: People Trained to Hear Like Bats in a Study That Could Help Those With Vision Loss
It might be more commonly associated with dolphins and bats, but nature's own sonar system could be harnessed by blind people too:https://www.sciencefocus.com/news/echolocation-people-trained-to-hear-like-bats-in-a-study-that-could-help-those-with-vision-loss/
3) Why Getting More People with Disabilities Developing Technology is Good For Everyone
It's not just a matter of fairness and inclusion. Accessible technology is generally better for everyone. An app or website that causes problems for a screen reader is likely to be more difficult than an accessible app or website for anyone to use because it will take more time or effort:https://theconversation.com/why-getting-more-people-with-disabilities-developing-technology-is-good-for-everyone-159619
4) How an Adaptive Game Controller Helps My Family Bond
Multiplayer gaming was something we thought my son would never be able to do, but a special Xbox controller changed everything:https://www.wired.com/story/adaptive-game-controller-accessibility-family-bonding/
5) Accessible Technology Is Better When It's Built By Those Who Rely On It
https://thenextweb.com/news/accessible-technology-better-when-built-those-who-rely-on-it-syndication6) Untold RPG for iOS: Playability and Accessibility
Untold RPG is a role-playing game made playable on iOS for those who use Apple's VoiceOver screen reader. Unlike games that are self-voicing, this game takes advantage of VoiceOver itself. In this article, we will take a look at some reasons why this game is great for blind players who may wish to enjoy the same gaming experience as their sighted counterparts:https://www.afb.org/aw/22/5/17559
7) A Tool for Visually Impaired Kids: Safe Toddles Provides Belt Canes
A North Carolina family is blazing a new trail for visually impaired children in the state:https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nc/triad/news/2021/06/08/belt-cane-for-visually-impaired-kids-
8) These Disabled Streamers & Advocates are Helping to Tackle Accessibility Issues in Gaming
Video games are enjoyed by billions of people around the world, disabled and non-disabled. For people with disabilities playing video games is fun and rewarding and a great opportunity to connect with a larger community. Over the decades many big companies out there are prioritising accessible gaming and they are turning to disabled streamers and gamers for insights into accessibility in gaming:https://newzhook.com/story/disabled-streamers-gaming-accessibility/
9) Are Your Organization and Its Board "Access Able"?
Charity to people with disabilities goes back to Biblical times, but philanthropy involving meaningful input from those served is a recent phenomenon. The demand for "nothing about us without us" is core to the ethos of the disability rights movement. Major civil rights legislation for the one-in-five of us with disabilities — the Americans with Disabilities Act — is only 30 years old. When thinking about accessibility, we're starting to consider more than ramps and bathrooms, like information access and attitudes like who should be at the board table:https://nonprofitquarterly.org/are-your-organization-and-its-board-access-able/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) 13 Letters | Cognitive Dissidents
June 3rd 2021Shell Little actually studied accessibility in college — making her a rare example of someone who didn't "stumble" into accessibility but hit the job market knowing exactly what she wanted to do. Still, she didn't know that she, herself, was part of the demographic that benefitted from inclusive design. Now an inclusive design lead on Wells Fargo's Accessible User Experience team and accomplished speaker in her own right, Shell shares her journey, talks about what a "Cognitive disability" can really mean, and even explains the surprising connection between accessibility and cosmetology:
https://www.bemyeyes.com/podcasts/cognitive-dissidents
2) Blind Android Users 26 | It's All About Low-vision, CSR, Uno Barcode Reader and Much More
June 5th 2021 | In this episode we discuss apps and technology for low vision and its improvements for Android and Windows. We chat with the developer of the Uno Barcode scanner app. He talks about his app and developing for Android as a totally visually impaired person. His app is not released on the Play Store as of now, but for the link to download the APK and give him feedback please read the show notes. And finally, we demo the Uno Barcode scanner app. To listen to this and all previous episodes, visit:https://blindandroidusers.com/
3) Say My Meme | Musical Theatre
June 7th 2021Matthew Shifrin is the host of the new Radiotopia Presents podcast Blind Guy Travels — and he's also somewhat of a "meme skeptic." Blind since birth, Matthew hasn't engaged much with the visual culture of memes. So in our neverending crusade to bring memes to tohe people who have the least access, we attempted to turn Matthew into a meme enthusiast by tapping into one of this favorite subjects: musical theatre:
https://www.bemyeyes.com/podcasts/musical-theatre
4) Be My Eyes Podcast | Do Blind People Use Body Language?
June 8th 2021This week on the podcast, we're collaborating with Radiotopia and PRX to share the first episode of the new podcast, Blind Guy Travels. Follow along with host Matthew Shifrin as he shares his perspective on everything from LEGOs to online dating. In this first episode: Matthew explains how he studied the art of body language to become a better communicator:
https://www.bemyeyes.com/podcasts/do-blind-people-use-body-language
5) Blind Tech Guys | WWDC Event Wrap-Up
June 8th 2021 | On this bonus episode of the pod, Marco and Kirt wrap up the goings on at this year's Apple WWDC conference. Many announcements were made, but was it all just a whole lot of hot air?:https://www.blindtechguys.com/bonus15
6) Eyes on Success 2124 | White Cane and Guide Dog Mobility Differences
June 9th 2021Is a guide dog for you or would you prefer to navigate using a white cane? What are the trade-offs? If I decide to get a dog, what is the process? Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Jake Koch, Community Outreach Specialist at Guide Dogs for the Blind about the answers to these questions and the services offered by Guide Dogs for the Blind:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202124.htm
7) That Real Blind Tech Show 37 | Release The Geek
June 9th 2021Allison and Brian are joined by Jeanine Stanley pinch hitting for Ed. Hold on to your shoelaces as the gang is going to discuss all the announcements coming out of Cupertino and how we feel they will effect accessibility:
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-37-apple-wwdc21-release-the-geek
8) Mosen At Large 130
June 9th 2021 You're invited to participate in the Sonaar research project to improve the quality of image descriptions on the web:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/2515f019/you-re-invited-to-participate-in-the-sonaar-research-project-to-improve-the-quality-of-image-descriptions-on-the-web
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Multiply Your Math Success Exponentially With The MATT Connect
June 10th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | This webinar organized by the American Printing House. With MATT Connect, it all adds up! Learn how to use the device to study math from addition and subtraction through higher-level problem-solving. In this webinar, you will also learn how to set up exam mode, which allows a teacher to customize permissions and features offered on the MATT Connect in testing situations. Register here:https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_JaOHKlwQQjK66tk46qLPLA
2) Desktop Accessibility Through Eye Tracking by Network of Assistive Technologists
Junhe 11th 2021 | 10:30AM PT, 11:30AM MT, 12:30PM CT, 1:30PM ET, 5:30PM GMT | This training session will cover the assessment and application of the eye gaze modality as an alternative and / or augmentative computer access option for use with clients with functional impairments. We will discuss advancements in eye-tracking technology and using eye-gaze as a part of your clinical toolbox. Learn more and register here:https://sites.google.com/noat.ca/events/2021/desktop-accessibility-through-eye-tracking-11-jun-2021
3) Get Organized and Read Books - Exploring File Management and the Victor Reader App on the Brailliant BI X Series
June 15th 2021 | 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12AM GMT on 6/16 | Join Andrew Flatres and Peter Tucic for another installment of the HumanWare webinar series, where they will explore different aspects of file and folder management (like copying, cutting, and renaming or moving content to/from SD cards and USB sticks) in the KeyFiles application of BI 20 and 40 X. Attendees will also get an in-depth look at the Victor Reader application, designed to play digital books in many supported formats. Register in advance for this webinar at:https://humanware.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_6RwL1O8zQnC7P3Ji9pfjHA
4) Get Organized and Read Books - Exploring File Management and the Victor Reader App on the Brailliant BI X Series
June 15th 2021 | 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12AM GMT on 6/16 | Join Andrew Flatres and Peter Tucic for another installment of the HumanWare webinar series, where they will explore different aspects of file and folder management (like copying, cutting, and renaming or moving content to/from SD cards and USB sticks) in the KeyFiles application of BI 20 and 40 X. Attendees will also get an in-depth look at the Victor Reader application, designed to play digital books in many supported formats. Register here:https://humanware.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_6RwL1O8zQnC7P3Ji9pfjHA
5) Zoom Webinar From the National Federation of The Blind: Getting The Most Out of Microsoft Office With a Screen Reader
June 16th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Mastering the basics of Office may be easy, but using its advanced features with a screen reader can become tricky. Even if you begin as a novice, during this seminar you will progress toward becoming an advanced user in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. This is a 4-hour webinar. Learn more and register here:https://nfb.org/programs-services/center-excellence-nonvisual-access/trainings/accessibility-boutiques/accessibility-boutique-registration
6) Present and Future of JAWS
June 16th 2021 | 6AM PT, 7AM MT, 8AM CT, 9AM ET, 1PM GMT, 2PM London | This webinar from the UK gives some glimpses into the forthcoming July update and beyond, as well as covering recent enhancements. As Covid-19 restrictions are easing we are told we can have some visitors to our homes, and, to our virtual home as well. That's why we're delighted to welcome back our old friends Eric Damery, Vice President of Software Product Management and Jan bloem, International Sales Manager from Vispero for a very special Webinar Wednesday session. Join Jan and Eric as they review some recent changes in JAWS 2021, including a more efficient way to navigate through email threads and lots more ways in which you can engage with JAWS by simply using your voice! And, if that wasn't enough, Eric will glimpse a little into the future and talk about the July update of JAWS. Register:https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_n-U-LvapTfqLKFrvH8CUzA?utm_content=169274733&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&hss_channel=tw-2382446636
7) 1st World Blindness Summit 2021
June 25th 2021 through June 30th 2021 | You are hereby invited to the first World Blindness Summit, an online and fully accessible event from June 25th to 30th 2021, open to everyone. What is the World Blindness Summit 21? This is a cutting-edge and innovative event that embraces the benefits of technologies, creating the first global and accessible online conference. Why is it unique? Over 1,000 blind and partially sighted people from nearly 190 countries over the world will participate to share their experiences and practices developed over the past five years, and especially those implemented to cope with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in all spheres of life. Who can participate? Everyone is welcome to attend, to participate, to listen, to talk, and to share this unique experience. All events of the World Blindness Summit are available in English, French and Spanish. Why is it interesting to participate? The achievements and challenges experienced will be analyzed, priorities will be set in this new era beginning by working hard to prevent blind and partially sighted people from being left behind in the digital revolution that has made such great progress in the past months. On the other hand, new strategies will be worked on to give visibility to our reality and above all, to promote everything that contributes to the substantiation of a central goal: to create a new vision of blindness, to enable everyone to fully participate in all aspect of our society. You can check the program here: https://www.worldblindnesssummit.com/en/schedule/program. It is all free and you have to register here by 5th June:https://www.worldblindnesssummit.com/en/inscription
8) Reaping the Benefits! Using Reaper Audio Workstation, OSARA and JAWS for Windows
June 30th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT, 7PM UK | This £80 / $112 USD course is suited to anyone who has an interest in creating or working with audio content. You should be familiar with how JAWS functions together with Windows concepts, such as how to navigate around applications. The course is fast-paced. There will be plenty of opportunities to ask questions regarding the topics under discussion, however this is achieved in a structured manner. This ensures that you can focus on learning the concepts being taught. All of your remaing questions answered here:http://www.hartgen.org/reaper
9) National Federation of the Blind 2021 National Convention
July 6th 2021 through July 10th 2021 | Register for free to attend the largest gathering of blind people and take advantage of the opportunity to network with thousands of blind role models, connect with leaders in the field of blindness, attend presentations on a variety of empowering topics, and learn about the latest in technology and innovation. Learn more and register here:https://www.nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention
10) Amazon Prime - More Than Just a Delivery Service | Technology User Group (TUG)
June 12th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Many components are included in Amazon Prime, such as Prime Video, Prime Music, Prime Books, Prime Games and many more. Many of these skills can work with Alexa. There are many tips, tricks and secrets to learn to take full advantage of these services. The presentation will be virtual and may be joined by calling the number below. You do not have to RSVP for this event. The presentation will last about 90 minutes:+1 (319) 527-4994 📱️
➜ Surveys
1) WebAIM Screen Reader User Survey #9
Close Date: June 15th 2021 | The following survey is a follow-up to previous WebAIM Screen Reader User Surveys. This survey is primarily intended to collect new information and track updates/trends from previous surveys. By completing this survey you will help inform development choices for those creating accessible web content and web standards. All screen reader users, even those who use screen readers only for evaluation and testing, are invited to participate:https://webaim.org/projects/screenreadersurvey9/
2) NVDA Satisfaction Survey 2021
Close Date: June 25th 2021 | NV Access are pleased to invite you to participate in the NVDA Satisfaction Survey 2021. As in previous years, this is a simple, three-question survey, open to NVDA users and testers around the world:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1_6qHLmpFPvt4TwWUgVcuzHNxPI45BAdjGjvAD0GFVx8/edit?ts=60a394d2
3) David Goldfield's 1st Annual 2021 Tech-VI Listserv Subscriber Survey
Close Date: June 30th 2021 | This is an invitation to provide your feedback about this list by taking our First Annual Tech-VI Subscriber Survey. This survey is completely anonymous. In fact, I have deliberately not asked for names and email addresses to allow participants to feel totally comfortable in providing both positive as well as constructive feedback. None of the questions require that you submit a response and most are ones where you can jot down your thoughts in a multiline edit field, giving you as much space as you would like to tell me what is working as well as how the list can be improved. Again, all submissions are anonymous and any question can be skipped. Just make sure that you activate the Submit button if you want your feedback to be seen. Comments will not be published to this or any other list:https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=DQSIkWdsW0yxEjajBLZtrQAAAAAAAAAAAAMAANEiuHBUMjYzVEpYVjZIVElKVUI3MEk4UEozUERUSC4u&wdLOR=cC5A76114-D3FC-4F84-80EA-68B694A51C78
4) PolyPad Braille Display Needs Assessment
Close Date: July 1st 2021 | Participants must be 18 years or older to participate and able to read braille. We hope that our research will lead to a high quality multi-lined braille display that can be used with a smartphone. Researchers will investigate the quality and usefulness of the product and use the information to improve the development of the device:https://calstatela.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2fPVm4hlLE5hQhg
5) Access Technology in the Workplace
Close Date: July 1st 2021 | Open Date: Now Open | Survey Information: a. The NRTC is recruiting people with blindness or low vision (age 21+) who are working or interested in working to be part of a 5-year study about access technology (AT) use, particularly in the workplace. Some questions we will seek answers to are: i. What AT do you most commonly use? ii. How do you decide whether to use a specific AT? iii. What are your AT challenges? iv. What AT do you need that isn't currently available? b. We want to know YOUR thoughts and experiences! Participation will involve completing multiple surveys to help us determine how AT use is changing over time. Fill out the online pre-screening survey to see if you qualify! 5. Survey Rewards Offered: a. if selected from this pre-screening survey, you'll receive a small gift card after completing each survey. Additionally, the NRTC will share study results with participants:https://msstatecoe.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8i98Qap5V441mdg?source=27
6) Paid Opportunity to Participate in a Research Study: Studying Tools to Manage and Share Pictures
Close Date: July 16th 2021 | We are a group of researchers at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. We are conducting research to help blind people and people with visual impairments (BVI people) share pictures to social media free of private and sensitive information. We have designed a mobile App to let BVI users screen private and sensitive information of their about-to-share pictures using artificial intelligence (AI) and human effort. Participants must be 18 years of age or older to participate in this research study. Those who complete the study will receive a $20 compensation and $10 for exit interview. Learn more here:https://ischoolillinois.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0vVmhfJViHruycS
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Braillenote Touch Plus in Excellent Condition
Listing Date: 5/20/2021 | Price: $2,000.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: One Braillenote Touch Plus in Excellent Condition. | Contact: sharonklug9304@gmail.com 📧️ or (817) 293-2156 📱️ |2) FOR SALE: One HIMS QBraille XL 40-Cell Smart Display
Listing Date: 5/20/2021 | Price: $1,600.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: Two years old. Onboard applications such as Notepad, DAISY reader, alarm clock, calculator, calendar. Full function keys and modifier keys. Will support up to six bluetooth connections and one USB connection simultaneously. Carrying case included. | Contact: badgertom1@verizon.net 📧️ or (941) 218-9090 📱️ |3) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Our world-class refreshable Braille displays deliver efficient Braille input and outstanding output for your PC or mobile device. The robust Bluetooth® connectivity provides seamless use with Windows®, Mac®, iPhones®, iPads®, and AndroidTM smartphones and tablets. Ergonomic navigation features allow quick, natural hand movements for greater productivity. When used with JAWS® screen reading software, they support our popular Braille Study Mode, an interactive tool for teaching and learning Braille. Learn more today:
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Join Karen Shrawder for an interactive presentation on June 14th 2021 at 4:00 PM Eastern about the benefits of becoming employed for recipients of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and/or beneficiaries of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) including: an overview of work incentives and helpful hints for overcoming challenges such as overpayments at:
https://aphconnectcenter.org/
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The wait is over! A redefined family of Brailliant refreshable Braille displays has arrived! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series will help you stay connected, download books from many participating online libraries and share information easily with your peers. You will enjoy the intuitive, seamless user experience of KeySoft Lite, the HumanWare flagship accessibility suite designed to make you more productive. Including the Brailliant BI 40X and the Brailliant BI 20X, this is the Brailliant idea you need!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/070120211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Dolphin creates customized kiosk solutions for every type of service kiosk and every level of vision loss--and that's a win for your service or brand! If you're a business owner or someone who's struggling to access a service via a kiosk, spread the word! Check out this introductory audio/video demonstration highlighting the benefits of Dolphin SuperNova Kiosks!
https://youtu.be/ZoLjah3Wb74
Sponsor Since: January 28th 2021
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Phone (USA & Canada): +1 (866) 797-5921 📱️
Phone (UK, Europe & Asia): +44 01905 754577 📱️
Phone (Nordic & Baltic Contries): +46 0515 82175 📱️
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of GuideConnect
GuideConnect Trial
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of SuperNova
SuperNova Trial
About: Dolphin Computer Access offers a wide array of solutions for students, people in the workforce, and at home who are blind, visually impaired or have dyslexia. Each product is purposefully designed to help users, with varying levels of technology experience, do everyday things EASILY on computers and tablets. Founded in 1986 and located in Worcester England, Dolphin has grown to become a global market leader worldwide.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Accessible Pharmacy, the new, home delivery pharmacy with a blind founder, is bringing its full range of support and services to Be My Eyes. Users of the Be My Eyes app can now call Accessible Pharmacy directly to get support with medication, medical devices, and even home delivery COVID testing. With a fully trained and discreet pharmacy staff on call from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Pacific, Accessible Pharmacy is the new way for blind and low vision consumers to get an easy, frictionless pharmacy experience. Call today — and you'll never have to take an Uber to the drugstore again.
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Revolution Cane Tip: Standard Roller Tip: $14.50 | Locator Dots: Small Pack of 6 (Clear or Orange): $2.00 | NFB Metal Cane Tip: $3.00 | TMAP - On Demand Tactile Street | Map (set of two maps): $25.00 | Ambutech Aluminum Folding Cane: $35.00 | NFB Chris Park Telescoping Cane: $45.00 | BoldWriter 20 Pen (Individual or 6-pack): $2.00 | Bump Dots: Mixed (50 count): $7.00 | Braille Apple Catalina VoiceOver Guide OSX 10.15 (3 volumes) - Latest Manual: $52.00 | SpeedDots iPhone Tactile Screen Protector, Phone Layout: $12.00 | NFB Chris Park 7-Piece Folding Cane: $50.00 | Visit https://adaptations.org/ to learn more today!
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The BRIC: Structures® Access Kit combines ordinary building bricks with Snap Circuits® to create 26 projects, such as circuits and real-world structures, that run on electricity. Visit https://www.aph.org/product/bric-structures-access-kit/ to learn more.
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
(1) Our first summer convention weekly special: 1 of 8: New 6 pocket leather waist pack, 15 by 7 by 5 inches, 6 pockets, 50 inch strap, $35. (2) Our new hands free 6 pocket rugged cowhide leather neck pouch will fit any phone, and a whole lot more. Can go on your belt or carry crossbody. 7 by 5 by 4 inches. $40.00. (3) Craddle your 20 cell Braille display with Our unique leather case that feels like a thick book; middle zipper, carrying strap; no Braille display ever felt so much love! $60. Call Barry: (617) 969-7500 📱️ / bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️ or visit: https://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/.
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
If you're like me, you probably have more things to plug into your computer than available ports. That's why we've now added the Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub. Plug it into your laptop and you will get 3 USB ports, SD and Micro SD card slots, a USBC charging port, and an HDMI video port. It's available now for just $29.95:
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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 Martineau
➜ 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 if interested at:
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: Pneuma Solutions
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Attendees! Never wonder what's being shared on screen during online presentations again! Presenters! Upload slides within 5 minutes of the presentation, and provide content in multiple downloadable formats. There is absolutely no reason why your next online event has to leave anyone with a print disability in digital darkness. Schools, Government, businesses, and single presenters! Take advantige of our introductory rate for meetings and free webinar for life program:
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Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
Sponsor: Commtech USA
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
https://commtechusa.net/store
Sponsor Since: April 22nd 2021
Website: https://commtechusa.net/ 🌐
Phone: (833) 345-8324 📱️
About: Commtech USA, a division of Commtech LLC is a Phoenix based national assistive technology company, with locations in Bakersfield CA. We deliver unmatched information technology and assistive technology consultations, training and support. Founded in 2005 as a government vendor fulfilling a vast range of technology needs of federal and state government clients, Commtech USA has expanded to meet the needs of businesses as well as individuals, with office locations across the nation. No issue is too large or too small for our staff, Commtech USA is the on call technology staff you call when you have tried the rest but need the best!
Book an appointment with Commtech.
Meet the Commtech USA Staff in this YouTube video.
Download The App (iOS):
Commtech USA for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
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Commtech USA for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, June 3, 2021 - Volume 809 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, June 3, 2021 - Volume 809
The Week's News in Access Technologyhttps://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Your One-Stop Hub for Resources About Thriving with Blindness or Low Vision
APH ConnectCenter's suite of websites: VisionAware, APH CareerConnect, and FamilyConnect are chock-full of information about thriving with blindness and low vision at all ages and stages of life. If you're new to life with vision loss - check out the Reader's Digest Getting Started Guide available on the VisionAware website. If you have blindness related questions call our I&;amp;R Line at +1 (800) 232-5463 📱️. If you're looking for inspiring success stories from people thriving with blindness, informational webinars, blogs, resources for living with vision loss, and our blindness community calendar check out VisionAware, APHCareerConnect, and FamilyConnect at https://aphconnectcenter.org/.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) 6 Command Prompt Commands You Should Know: (6.6% of all clicks.)https://www.pcworld.com/article/3619900/6-command-prompt-commands-you-should-still-be-using.html
B.) Microsoft Edge Keyboard Shortcuts: (5.9% of all clicks.)
https://www.maketecheasier.com/cheatsheet/microsoft-edge-keyboard-shortcuts/
C.) What is everybody's favorite accessible game on iOS?: (5.0% of all clicks.)
https://www.applevis.com/forum/ios-ipados-gaming/what-everybody-s-favorite-accessible-game
D.) Free JAWS Training Bundle: (4.5% of all clicks.)
https://bit.ly/3ueF3U8
E.) NVDA Remote for iOS Being Developed: (4.4% of all clicks.)
https://testflight.apple.com/join/oEUkUTMd
2) Top Tech Tidbits Welcomes Pneuma Solutions
Please join us in offering a warm Tidbits welcome to Pneuma Solutions. They join us this week as one of twelve Top Tech Tidbits Sponsors for which we are sincerely grateful. Without the support of our sponsors, Tidbits would not be possible. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell and is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Learn more today at:https://pneumasolutions.com/
3) Alexa Makes It Possible For Those With Hearing Loss
Here are some accessibility features that individuals with a hearing loss can benefit from:https://ndassistive.org/blog/alexa-makes-it-possible-for-those-with-hearing-loss/
4) The Best Speech to Text Software for Windows 10
There are multiple options for speech-to-text software on Windows 10, but it can be hard to narrow down the best picks. Here they examine both the free and paid options to help you choose the right software for you:https://www.online-tech-tips.com/software-reviews/the-best-speech-to-text-software-for-windows-10/
5) RIP IE: Microsoft to End Internet Explorer Support Next Year
Microsoft has announced the end of the 25-year old era of Internet Explorer, a former king of browsers. Microsoft has already killed Edge Legacy earlier this year and now plans to retire Internet Explorer, which is still present in every Windows installation:https://winaero.com/microsoft-to-end-internet-explorer-support-next-year/
6) Mantis and Chameleon Software Improvements New Features as of May 2021
The Mantis Q40 and Chameleon 20 — two top-of-the-line "hybrid" braille displays from APH - are getting some new upgrades that will make your device better whether you're an adult professional, a student, or a teacher supporting students with braille displays:https://www.aph.org/mantis-and-chameleon-software-improvements/
7) AppleVis Unlimited: What's New and Noteworthy for May 2021
Always a convenient way to make sure you haven't missed anything important in the accessible Apple world:https://www.applevis.com/newsletter/applevis-unlimited-whats-new-and-noteworthy-may-2021
8) David Woodbridge's Podcasts and Demos
Here's where you can find all of David Woodbridge's useful tech recordings:https://davidwoodbr.podbean.com/
And here are all of his Vision Australia Talking Tech Shows:
http://talkingtech.podbean.com/
9) Math Accessibility Trees
This post on the Math in Office Blog discusses aspects of making mathematical equations accessible to blind people:https://devblogs.microsoft.com/math-in-office/math-accessibility-trees/?_lrsc=fccd4643-ef98-4af6-8dfe-041753ff5b29
10) Writing with a Screen Reader
Here is one person's experience and impressions:https://annalodwick.wordpress.com/2021/05/20/writing-with-a-screen-reader/
11) TMAP on Clubhouse
Join a conversation on Tactile Maps Automated Production on Clubhouse on Thursday, June 3rd 2021 at 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 11PM GMT:https://www.clubhouse.com/event/mgvw6AYZ
12) Join Blind Tech Guys on Clubhouse
There's a weekly episode and occasional bonus episodes:https://www.clubhouse.com/club/blind-tech-guys
13) Free Help Sessions from The Tech Juggernaut
In the Summer you can get Apple-related assistance on Tuesdays at 3PM PT, 4PM MT, 5PM CT, 6PM ET, 10PM GMT:https://ttjtech.net/2021/06/02/announcing-the-ttj-summer-schedule/
14) Review in Spanish of NVDA Training Materials
This review covers the Excel and PowerPoint courses available for purchase:https://olgacarreras.blogspot.com/2021/06/resena-powerpoint-y-excel-con-nvda-de.html
15) ClipTools, NVDA Add-on for Managing the Clipboard
View and edit clipboard content:https://github.com/TheQuinbox/cliptools/releases/tag/v2021.1
16) How to Listen to Radio Stations Online for Free
In this era of Spotify and Apple Music it can be easy to forget that radio exists, especially when you're used to picking your music at-will. The fact is, radio is a great way to not only discover new artists and songs, but also to learn more about places all over the world:https://www.online-tech-tips.com/cool-websites/how-to-listen-to-radio-stations-online-for-free/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Candy-Like Models Used to Make STEM Accessible to Visually Impaired Students
A breakthrough study aims to make science more accessible to people who are blind or visually impaired through small, candy-like models:https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/05/210528171755.htm
2) Will Blind People Be Able to See Again in the Future Thanks to a Brain Implant?
https://innovationorigins.com/en/brain-implant-enables-blind-people-to-see-again-in-the-future/3) 'Can I Play That?' Co-Founder Courtney Craven on the Spectrum of Disability and Challenge of Accessibility
Twitch streamer Cerebral Paul joins the conversation to share how he 'games differently,' and encourages a healthy playing environment with those on the other side of the controller:https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/digital/can-i-play-that-co-founder-courtney-craven-spectrum-of-disability-accessibility-1234959539/
4) A Blind Man's Lessons Learned in the Quest for Making Change
https://www.therecord.com/opinion/2021/05/29/a-blind-mans-lessons-learned-in-the-quest-for-making-change.html5) accessiBe, The Web Accessibility Market Leader, Announces New Search Engine accessFind to Help People with Disabilities Find Accessible Websites
Developed in partnership with disability-focused nonprofit organizations, accessFind is an inclusive, first-of-its-kind search engine specifically designed to enhance internet accessibility for people with disabilities:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/accessibe-the-web-accessibility-market-leader-announces-new-search-engine-accessfind-to-help-people-with-disabilities-find-accessible-websites-301298597.html
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Blind Tech Guys 86 | ClubHouse And ClubDeck Are They Really What They Proclaim To Be
May 26th 2021 | On this episode, Marco spoke with accessibility specialist and all-round great guy Neil McCullough, who walked our listeners through how to use ClubHouse, and the developers of ClubDeck, Pierre Stanislas and Philippe Breuils:https://www.blindtechguys.com/86
2) Blind Android Users 25 | Milestone Celebration with Listeners
May 29th 2021 | In this episode, we have lots of fun with our listeners. We tell you how we got started with the podcast and discuss a lot of things like Android vs iOS, Talkback vs CSR and much more. Listen in and join the fun. We thank our listeners for being with us in these 25 episodes and hope you encourage us in the future. You can listen to this podcast and all our content by visiting:https://blindandroidusers.com/
3) Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther 26 | World Ocean Day
May 29th 2021 | This episode is all about listening to underwater sounds. We challenge listeners with a series of underwater marine recordings, and Lawrence speaks with the host of the new Sound aquatic Podcast. There are Tips for using sound to find things underwater, and reflections on what we can learn from aquatic animals that use hearing to thrive in low and no light situations:https://tunein.com/podcasts/Sports--Recreation-Podcasts/Outdoors-with-Lawrence-Gunther-p1364141/?topicId=163394384
4) That Real Blind Tech Show 35 | A Stir of Siri Echoes
May 31st 2021Brian and Ed are joined in the That Real Blind Tech Show virtual studio by Jeanine Stanley, pinch hitting for Allison:
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-35-a-stir-of-siri-echoes
5) Eyes on Success 2123 | The Great Outdoors
June 2nd 2021Lawrence Gunther is host of the podcast "Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther". The podcast is a mix of interesting facts about our environment and outdoor activities and includes interviews with blind people who enjoy the outdoors. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Lawrence, who is blind himself, about the podcast as well as about his own adventures in nature:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202123.htm
6) Mosen At Large 127
June 2nd 2021 Janet Ingber discusses her updated Mac Basics book and why you might want a Mac in your life:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/55b3d718/janet-ingber-discusses-her-updated-mac-basics-book-and-why-you-might-want-a-mac-in-your-life
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) 2021 Braille Literacy Canada Symposium
June 4th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Braille Literacy Canada (BLC) will be holding a virtual braille symposium. This event will be of interest to braille readers, educators, transcribers, parents and anyone else who is passionate about the empowerment that braille literacy brings. Learn more at:https://www.braillists.org/uncategorised/announcing-the-2021-braille-literacy-canada-symposium-friday-4-june-600-1100-pm/
2) Zoom Webinar | Florida Vision Technology | Florida Assistive Technology Presentation
June 7th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Join Florida Vision Technology for a virtual presentation of the latest and greatest in Assistive Technology including the brand new Envision Glasses and other wearables Check out our most updated catalog of products: https://floridareading.com/downloads. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar. Register in advance for this webinar:https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_cDgpkD0BS4SivMVTMhsGug
3) Multiply Your Math Success Exponentially With The MATT Connect
June 10th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | This webinar organized by the American Printing House. With MATT Connect, it all adds up! Learn how to use the device to study math from addition and subtraction through higher-level problem-solving. In this webinar, you will also learn how to set up exam mode, which allows a teacher to customize permissions and features offered on the MATT Connect in testing situations. Register here:https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_JaOHKlwQQjK66tk46qLPLA
4) Get Organized and Read Books - Exploring File Management and the Victor Reader App on the Brailliant BI X Series
June 15th 2021 | 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12AM GMT on 6/16 | Join Andrew Flatres and Peter Tucic for another installment of the HumanWare webinar series, where they will explore different aspects of file and folder management (like copying, cutting, and renaming or moving content to/from SD cards and USB sticks) in the KeyFiles application of BI 20 and 40 X. Attendees will also get an in-depth look at the Victor Reader application, designed to play digital books in many supported formats. Register in advance for this webinar at:https://humanware.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_6RwL1O8zQnC7P3Ji9pfjHA
5) Get Organized and Read Books - Exploring File Management and the Victor Reader App on the Brailliant BI X Series
June 15th 2021 | 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12AM GMT on 6/16 | Join Andrew Flatres and Peter Tucic for another installment of the HumanWare webinar series, where they will explore different aspects of file and folder management (like copying, cutting, and renaming or moving content to/from SD cards and USB sticks) in the KeyFiles application of BI 20 and 40 X. Attendees will also get an in-depth look at the Victor Reader application, designed to play digital books in many supported formats. Register here:https://humanware.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_6RwL1O8zQnC7P3Ji9pfjHA
6) 1st World Blindness Summit 2021
June 25th 2021 through June 30th 2021 | You are hereby invited to the first World Blindness Summit, an online and fully accessible event from June 25th to 30th 2021, open to everyone. What is the World Blindness Summit 21? This is a cutting-edge and innovative event that embraces the benefits of technologies, creating the first global and accessible online conference. Why is it unique? Over 1,000 blind and partially sighted people from nearly 190 countries over the world will participate to share their experiences and practices developed over the past five years, and especially those implemented to cope with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in all spheres of life. Who can participate? Everyone is welcome to attend, to participate, to listen, to talk, and to share this unique experience. All events of the World Blindness Summit are available in English, French and Spanish. Why is it interesting to participate? The achievements and challenges experienced will be analyzed, priorities will be set in this new era beginning by working hard to prevent blind and partially sighted people from being left behind in the digital revolution that has made such great progress in the past months. On the other hand, new strategies will be worked on to give visibility to our reality and above all, to promote everything that contributes to the substantiation of a central goal: to create a new vision of blindness, to enable everyone to fully participate in all aspect of our society. You can check the program here: https://www.worldblindnesssummit.com/en/schedule/program. It is all free and you have to register here by 5th June:https://www.worldblindnesssummit.com/en/inscription
7) Reaping the Benefits! Using Reaper Audio Workstation, OSARA and JAWS for Windows
June 30th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT, 7PM UK | This £80 / $112 USD course is suited to anyone who has an interest in creating or working with audio content. You should be familiar with how JAWS functions together with Windows concepts, such as how to navigate around applications. The course is fast-paced. There will be plenty of opportunities to ask questions regarding the topics under discussion, however this is achieved in a structured manner. This ensures that you can focus on learning the concepts being taught. All of your remaing questions answered here:http://www.hartgen.org/reaper
8) National Federation of the Blind 2021 National Convention
July 6th 2021 through July 10th 2021 | Register for free to attend the largest gathering of blind people and take advantage of the opportunity to network with thousands of blind role models, connect with leaders in the field of blindness, attend presentations on a variety of empowering topics, and learn about the latest in technology and innovation. Learn more and register here:https://www.nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention
9) Amazon Prime - More Than Just a Delivery Service | Technology User Group (TUG)
June 12th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Many components are included in Amazon Prime, such as Prime Video, Prime Music, Prime Books, Prime Games and many more. Many of these skills can work with Alexa. There are many tips, tricks and secrets to learn to take full advantage of these services. The presentation will be virtual and may be joined by calling the number below. You do not have to RSVP for this event. The presentation will last about 90 minutes:+1 (319) 527-4994 📱️
➜ Surveys
1) WebAIM Screen Reader User Survey #9
Close Date: June 15th 2021 | The following survey is a follow-up to previous WebAIM Screen Reader User Surveys. This survey is primarily intended to collect new information and track updates/trends from previous surveys. By completing this survey you will help inform development choices for those creating accessible web content and web standards. All screen reader users, even those who use screen readers only for evaluation and testing, are invited to participate:https://webaim.org/projects/screenreadersurvey9/
2) NVDA Satisfaction Survey 2021
Close Date: June 25th 2021 | NV Access are pleased to invite you to participate in the NVDA Satisfaction Survey 2021. As in previous years, this is a simple, three-question survey, open to NVDA users and testers around the world:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1_6qHLmpFPvt4TwWUgVcuzHNxPI45BAdjGjvAD0GFVx8/edit?ts=60a394d2
3) PolyPad Braille Display Needs Assessment
Close Date: July 1st 2021 | Participants must be 18 years or older to participate and able to read braille. We hope that our research will lead to a high quality multi-lined braille display that can be used with a smartphone. Researchers will investigate the quality and usefulness of the product and use the information to improve the development of the device:https://calstatela.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2fPVm4hlLE5hQhg
4) Paid Opportunity to Participate in a Research Study: Studying Tools to Manage and Share Pictures
Close Date: July 16th 2021 | We are a group of researchers at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. We are conducting research to help blind people and people with visual impairments (BVI people) share pictures to social media free of private and sensitive information. We have designed a mobile App to let BVI users screen private and sensitive information of their about-to-share pictures using artificial intelligence (AI) and human effort. Participants must be 18 years of age or older to participate in this research study. Those who complete the study will receive a $20 compensation and $10 for exit interview. Learn more here:https://ischoolillinois.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0vVmhfJViHruycS
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Braillenote Touch Plus in Excellent Condition
Listing Date: 5/20/2021 | Price: $2,000.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: One Braillenote Touch Plus in Excellent Condition. | Contact: sharonklug9304@gmail.com 📧️ or (817) 293-2156 📱️ |2) FOR SALE: One HIMS QBraille XL 40-Cell Smart Display
Listing Date: 5/20/2021 | Price: $1,600.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: Two years old. Onboard applications such as Notepad, DAISY reader, alarm clock, calculator, calendar. Full function keys and modifier keys. Will support up to six bluetooth connections and one USB connection simultaneously. Carrying case included. | Contact: badgertom1@verizon.net 📧️ or (941) 218-9090 📱️ |3) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Join Karen Shrawder for an interactive presentation on June 14th 2021 at 4:00 PM Eastern about the benefits of becoming employed for recipients of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and/or beneficiaries of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) including: an overview of work incentives and helpful hints for overcoming challenges such as overpayments at:
https://aphconnectcenter.org/
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The wait is over! A redefined family of Brailliant refreshable Braille displays has arrived! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series will help you stay connected, download books from many participating online libraries and share information easily with your peers. You will enjoy the intuitive, seamless user experience of KeySoft Lite, the HumanWare flagship accessibility suite designed to make you more productive. Including the Brailliant BI 40X and the Brailliant BI 20X, this is the Brailliant idea you need!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/070120211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Dolphin creates customized kiosk solutions for every type of service kiosk and every level of vision loss--and that's a win for your service or brand! If you're a business owner or someone who's struggling to access a service via a kiosk, spread the word! Check out this introductory audio/video demonstration highlighting the benefits of Dolphin SuperNova Kiosks!
https://youtu.be/ZoLjah3Wb74
Sponsor Since: January 28th 2021
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Phone (USA & Canada): +1 (866) 797-5921 📱️
Phone (UK, Europe & Asia): +44 01905 754577 📱️
Phone (Nordic & Baltic Contries): +46 0515 82175 📱️
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of GuideConnect
GuideConnect Trial
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of SuperNova
SuperNova Trial
About: Dolphin Computer Access offers a wide array of solutions for students, people in the workforce, and at home who are blind, visually impaired or have dyslexia. Each product is purposefully designed to help users, with varying levels of technology experience, do everyday things EASILY on computers and tablets. Founded in 1986 and located in Worcester England, Dolphin has grown to become a global market leader worldwide.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Accessible Pharmacy, the new, home delivery pharmacy with a blind founder, is bringing its full range of support and services to Be My Eyes. Users of the Be My Eyes app can now call Accessible Pharmacy directly to get support with medication, medical devices, and even home delivery COVID testing. With a fully trained and discreet pharmacy staff on call from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Pacific, Accessible Pharmacy is the new way for blind and low vision consumers to get an easy, frictionless pharmacy experience. Call today — and you'll never have to take an Uber to the drugstore again.
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Revolution Cane Tip: Standard Roller Tip: $14.50 | Locator Dots: Small Pack of 6 (Clear or Orange): $2.00 | NFB Metal Cane Tip: $3.00 | TMAP - On Demand Tactile Street | Map (set of two maps): $25.00 | Ambutech Aluminum Folding Cane: $35.00 | NFB Chris Park Telescoping Cane: $45.00 | BoldWriter 20 Pen (Individual or 6-pack): $2.00 | Bump Dots: Mixed (50 count): $7.00 | Braille Apple Catalina VoiceOver Guide OSX 10.15 (3 volumes) - Latest Manual: $52.00 | SpeedDots iPhone Tactile Screen Protector, Phone Layout: $12.00 | NFB Chris Park 7-Piece Folding Cane: $50.00 | Visit https://adaptations.org/ to learn more today!
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The BRIC: Structures® Access Kit combines ordinary building bricks with Snap Circuits® to create 26 projects, such as circuits and real-world structures, that run on electricity. Visit https://www.aph.org/product/bric-structures-access-kit/ to learn more.
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
(1) Our new hands free 5 pocket rugged cowhide leather neck pouch will fit any phone. It can go on your belt or carry it crossbody; $40.00 (2) Our new unique leather case to protect your 20 cell Braille display. It feels like a thick book with a zipper down the middle. It's actually a concealed weapons case with carrying straps; no Braille display has ever had so much love. $60.00. (3) Starting next week, we will offer 1 weekly convention special on TTT = 8 successive weeks. Keep reading. Call Barry: (617) 969-7500 📱️ / bscheur@scheur.com 📧️ or Kae: (781) 286-1696 📱️ or visit:
https://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
If you're like me, you probably have more things to plug into your computer than available ports. That's why we've now added the Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub. Plug it into your laptop and you will get 3 USB ports, SD and Micro SD card slots, a USBC charging port, and an HDMI video port. It's available now for just $29.95:
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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 Martineau
➜ 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 if interested at:
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: Pneuma Solutions
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Attendees! Never wonder what's being shared on screen during online presentations again! Presenters! Upload slides within 5 minutes of the presentation, and provide content in multiple downloadable formats. There is absolutely no reason why your next online event has to leave anyone with a print disability in digital darkness. Schools, Government, businesses, and single presenters! Take advantige of our introductory rate for meetings and free webinar for life program:
https://scribeformeetings.com/
Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
Sponsor: Commtech USA
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
https://commtechusa.net/store
Sponsor Since: April 22nd 2021
Website: https://commtechusa.net/ 🌐
Phone: (833) 345-8324 📱️
About: Commtech USA, a division of Commtech LLC is a Phoenix based national assistive technology company, with locations in Bakersfield CA. We deliver unmatched information technology and assistive technology consultations, training and support. Founded in 2005 as a government vendor fulfilling a vast range of technology needs of federal and state government clients, Commtech USA has expanded to meet the needs of businesses as well as individuals, with office locations across the nation. No issue is too large or too small for our staff, Commtech USA is the on call technology staff you call when you have tried the rest but need the best!
Book an appointment with Commtech.
Meet the Commtech USA Staff in this YouTube video.
Download The App (iOS):
Commtech USA for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Commtech USA for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Our world-class refreshable Braille displays deliver efficient Braille input and outstanding output for your PC or mobile device. The robust Bluetooth® connectivity provides seamless use with Windows®, Mac®, iPhones®, iPads®, and AndroidTM smartphones and tablets. Ergonomic navigation features allow quick, natural hand movements for greater productivity. When used with JAWS® screen reading software, they support our popular Braille Study Mode, an interactive tool for teaching and learning Braille. Learn more today:
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
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|
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, May 27, 2021 - Volume 808 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, May 27, 2021 - Volume 808
The Week's News in Access Technologyhttps://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: One Sponsorship Package Currently Available! Join These Top Tech Tidbits Sponsors Today And Learn What Tidbits Can Do For You!
This issue made possible by sponsorship support from: Dean Martineau @ TopTechTidbits.com, John Panarese @ MacForTheBlind.com, A. T. Guys @ ATGuys.com, Barry Scheur @ GuideLightsAndGadgets.us, American Printing House @ APH.org, LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store @ Adaptations.org, Be My Eyes @ BeMyEyes.com, Dolphin Computer Access @ YourDolphin.com, HumanWare @ HumanWare.com, APH ConnectCenter @ APHConnectCenter.org, Freedom Scientific @ FreedomScientific.com and Commtech USA @ CommtechUSA.net.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) iOS 14.6 Release Date, Features and What We Know About So Far: (8.8% of all clicks.)https://www.techradar.com/news/ios-146-release-date-features-and-what-we-know-about-so-far
B.) Apple Previews Powerful Software Updates Designed for People with Disabilities: (6.1% of all clicks.)
https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2021/05/apple-previews-powerful-software-updates-designed-for-people-with-disabilities/
C.) Microsoft Kicks Off The Rollout of Windows 10 21H1: (5.8% of all clicks.)
https://www.zdnet.com/article/microsoft-kicks-off-the-rollout-of-windows-10-21h1/#ftag=RSSbaffb68
D.) New Features in JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion: (4.3% of all clicks.)
https://webfriendlyhelp.com/new-features-in-jaws-zoomtext-and-fusion-5/
E.) How To Turn On (and Off) Windows Startup Sound In Windows 10 Computers: (4.0% of all clicks.)
https://wccftech.com/how-to/windows-startup-sound-windows-10-computers/
2) Top Tech Tidbits Says Thank You And Farewell To Sponsor John Panarese of MacForTheBlind.com
Please join all of us here at Tidbits in wishing a fine farewell to John Panarese of MacForTheBlind.com who has so very graciously supported the distribution of Top Tech Tidbits via sponsorship since we began offering them one year ago. If you look forward to Tidbits every week, it's people like John that make that possible. If you would like to join us in supporting Tidbits while enjoying some really incredible marketing benefits please reach out to our publisher today at: publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️. Or learn more at:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html
3) You'll Soon be Able to Use Your Apple Watch Without Touching the Screen
Companies like Apple and Spotify are making it easier for people with disabilities to use their products. Accessibility advocates hope more follow suit:https://www.wsj.com/articles/youll-soon-be-able-to-use-your-apple-watch-without-touching-the-screen-11621624080
4) Google Phone Gains Caller ID Announcement Feature to Help You Manually Screen Calls
To help you screen unwanted calls, the Google Phone app is rolling out the Caller ID Announcement feature that will announce the name and number of any incoming calls:https://9to5google.com/2021/05/17/google-phone-gains-caller-id-announcement-feature-to-help-you-manually-screen-calls/
5) Learn Keyboard Shortcuts for Popular Programs and Practice the Combinations with KeyCombiner
KeyCombiner is a free desktop program and website that can help you learn the keyboard shortcuts for popular programs, and also practice them. Please note that you'll need to sign up for a free account before using the website or the desktop program which is available for Windows, Linux and macOS:https://www.ghacks.net/2021/05/21/learn-keyboard-shortcuts-for-popular-programs-and-practice-the-combinations-with-keycombiner/
6) May 2021 AccessWorld
This month, we choose among "A New Day for TalkBack: Android Screen Reader Gets a Major Update," "Lookout App for Android: Google's AI Swiss Army Knife," "Streaming Audio Services Part 2: The Accessibility of Apple Music," "Untold RPG for iOS: Playability and Accessibility," and "The Power of LiDAR Comes to an iPhone Near You:"https://www.afb.org/aw/22/5
7) 6 Command Prompt Commands You Should Know
According to PC World, the venerable command prompt still serves a purpose:https://www.pcworld.com/article/3619900/6-command-prompt-commands-you-should-still-be-using.html
8) Free JAWS Training Bundle
Here is a downloadable version of the JAWS Basic Training folder for use on a phone or portable device:https://bit.ly/3ueF3U8
9) Thorium Reader for Reading EPUB Files on PC, Mac and Linux
This program is free and said to be accessible:https://www.edrlab.org/software/thorium-reader/
10) What is everybody's favorite accessible game on iOS?
Maybe you'll find a new game by reading through this AppleVis discussion forum topic:https://www.applevis.com/forum/ios-ipados-gaming/what-everybody-s-favorite-accessible-game
11) NVDA 2021.1 Beta 1 Available for Testing
Lots of changes and fixes:https://www.nvaccess.org/post/nvda-2021-1beta1/
12) Soundscape Beacons and Audio Markers
This page has a recent story about navigating with SoundScape as well as older articles:https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/group/enable/articles/beacon-on-the-banksy/
13) Fulll Description and Demo of Zoom Podtrack P4
Another in a series of podcasts about this device by David Woodbridge:https://s136.podbean.com/pb/b67c99bb6f6ee11c24092c7435095772/60aef20f/data2/fs54/339150/uploads/description_and_play_around_with_the_P46x6m7.mp3?pbss=c9525af8-e1e7-5a7a-aaa8-bff8f5fffbfc
14) JAWS Scripts for Outlook
Brian Hartgen provides a demo (MP3):http://www.hartgen.org/audio/outlookdemo.mp3
And a transcript:
http://www.hartgen.org/outlooktext
15) NVDA Remote for iOS Being Developed
You're encouraged to test this:https://testflight.apple.com/join/oEUkUTMd
16) Accessible Writing With Ulysses
A review of a powerful and accessible tool for writing in iOS:https://www.ernestrudak.com/2021/05/24/accessible-writing-with-ulysses/
17) FSCast #199
Glenn Gordan speaks to the National Coding Symposium, and we learn about localizing JAWS for Spanish:https://hwcdn.libsyn.com/p/6/a/e/6ae3f8ae547f8566/FSCast199-May2021.mp3?c_id=104075870&cs_id=104075870&destination_id=699950&expiration=1622083134&hwt=d107f1e50d8e364ce5a5defbfd8dd01a
18) FS Open Line on Clubhouse
Learn about math on braille displays with JAWS and get other questions answered on GMT Friday, 28 May at 00:00. The program willl be recorded and become the next FSCast:https://blog.freedomscientific.com/fsopenline/?utm_content=167546539&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&hss_channel=tw-2382446636
19) IndentBeeper, for Coding on the Mac
Now you can get notifications of indentations when writing on the Mac:https://github.com/pitermach/IndentBeeper
20) Quick Accessibility Tests
Ten accessible tests anybody can perform, created for GAAD:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTqm2yVMMUKWTr9XWdW5hJ9tk512Ow0SE
21) GoodMaps Explore
Considerable enhancements to indoor navigation for this iOS app:https://apps.apple.com/us/app/goodmaps-explore/id1524698552
22) Recording: Hartgen Consultancy and Florida Outreach Center for the Blind Workshop: May 20th 2021
Below is a link where you can listen to and download the Hartgen Consultancy workshop that took place over Zoom from the florida outreach center for the blind on Thursday May 20, 2021:https://1drv.ms/v/s!AisYUv3BHXuF8jULgS2PORsmbQz1?e=viRosE
23) Microsoft Edge Keyboard Shortcuts
https://www.maketecheasier.com/cheatsheet/microsoft-edge-keyboard-shortcuts/24) Voting is Now Open for the 2021 Inductees Into the AppleVis iOS App Hall of Fame
Now in its tenth year, our Hall of Fame is one of the ways in which the AppleVis community seeks to recognize developers of accessible iOS applications. Apps in the Hall of Fame can be liberating; empowering; life-changing; provide access to information that sighted users take for granted; or, in some cases, they can just be good fun:https://www.applevis.com/newsletter/voting-now-open-2021-inductees-applevis-ios-app-hall-fame
25) HumanWare YouTube Video: A Deeper Look into the Use of Screen Readers with the New Brailliant BI X Displays
In this webinar, Andrew Flatres and Peter Tucic of HumanWare will demonstrate how to connect BI X Series Braille displays to JAWS, NVDA and VoiceOver on iOS, present a series of tips and tricks to make navigation with each screen reader easier, and discuss the benefits of using a refreshable Braille display in conjunction with, or in contrast to, a Braille note taker:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qigRmeEvlsA&t=125s
26) SuperNova with Magnification with Speech Training Video
Irie AT has recently uploaded a training video covering SuperNova with Magnification with speech. This video is over five hours long:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjEKcy8A3Dc&t=588s
27) VLC Open Source Media Player Keyboard Shortcuts Cheatsheet
https://www.maketecheasier.com/cheatsheet/vlc-keyboard-shortcuts/28) Apple Unveils New Accessibility Features Including Ggesture Controls and Eye Tracking
Apple has unveiled a slew of features designed to make their products more accessible for people with disabilities, ranging from one-handed gesture controls for the Apple Watch to eye-tracking support for the iPad:https://www.ctvnews.ca/sci-tech/apple-unveils-new-accessibility-features-including-gesture-controls-eye-tracking-1.5438463
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Braille Institute Offers 110 Free Online Spring/Summer Courses Including Laughing Yoga and Making Technology Work For You
The Spring/Summer semester runs from May 3rd 2021 through August 13th 2021. Participants can join anytime throughout the semester:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/braille-institute-offers-110-free-online-springsummer-courses-including-laughing-yoga-and-making-technology-work-for-you-301299165.html
2) Facebook's Latest AI Can Learn Speech Without Human Transcriptions
According to Facebook, its novel system can now unshackle the tech from its reliance upon text-to-speech input. The time consuming task involves humans listening to and transcribing hours of audio, a monotonous process that has to be repeated for each language. Whereas Facebook's "unsupervised" system learns purely from speech audio and unpaired text to give it a better sense of what human communication sounds like:https://www.engadget.com/facebook-ai-speech-transcriptions-130005002.html
3) Alexa Trust Boss Beatrice Geoffrin Talks Accessibility At Amazon And How It Is 'Everyone's Responsibility'
https://www.forbes.com/sites/stevenaquino/2021/05/19/alexa-trust-boss-beatrice-geoffrin-talks-accessibility-at-amazon-and-how-it-is-everyones-responsibility/?sh=f2ada5f3c8434) Meet the Disabled Streamers Who Are Transforming the Gaming Industry
Gamers with disabilities aren't waiting for big companies to catch up: They're forming their own communities and making gameplay more accessible than ever:https://www.wired.com/story/disabled-streamers-transforming-games-industry/
5) RNIB Partners Google and The Guardian to Launch Accessible Storytelling Website
Auditorial, an experimental storytelling experience launched last week, aims to make the web a more inclusive place for blind and low-vision readers. R/GA's London and Sao Paulo offices were creative partners for the project, which was set up by the Royal National Institute of Blind People, The Guardian and Google:https://www.campaignlive.co.uk/article/rnib-partners-google-guardian-launch-accessible-storytelling-website/1716624
6) Greek Students Invent Revolutionary Device to Help Blind Swimmers
A wearable assistance system for swimmers with total or partial blindness was developed by a group of students, as part of the 7th Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition of Junior Achievement Greece (JA Greece). The revolutionary assistance system consists of a swimming cap with glasses, and is intended to help swimmers with their orientation in a swimming pool. The device, which is located on the cap, has a set of sensors that notify the swimmer wearing it about his or her orientation in the pool, the arrival at the end of the swimming route for the turn or the finish:https://greekcitytimes.com/2021/05/22/device-blind-swimmers/
7) Smart Shoes Alert Blind and Visually Impaired People of Obstacles
Austrian company Tec-Innovation has produced an intelligent shoe, dubbed "InnoMake," that warns blind and visually impaired people of obstacles in their path:https://coolblindtech.com/smart-shoes-alert-blind-and-visually-impaired-people-of-obstacles/
8) Cooking Without Looking TV Show Featuring Visually Impaired Cooks Conveys a Powerful Message About Inclusion
The COVID-19 lockdown has seen a flood of shows on cooking all around the world but there's one show that stands heads and shoulders above the rest. That's the iconic Cooking Without Looking TV Show, the first live TV show which shows blind and visually people cooking. It is now available as a podcast:https://newzhook.com/story/cooking-without-looking-tv-show-featuring-blind-visually-impaired-cooks-conveys-a-powerful-message-about-inclusion/
9) Psychonauts 2 Accessibility Options Range from Gameplay Adjustments to Colorblind Modes
Double Fine has revealed the many accessibility options that will be available for Psychonauts 2. The upcoming action-adventure game will have options ranging from gameplay choices to sound and graphics adjustments such as colorblind modes. All of these have been explained in a 30 minute accessibility feature Q&A video, which was released yesterday as part of GAAD (Global Accessibility Awareness Day):https://www.playstationlifestyle.net/2021/05/21/psychonauts-2-accessibility/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Blind Tech Guys 86 | ClubHouse And ClubDeck Are They Really What They Proclaim To Be
May 18th 2021 | On this episode, Marco spoke with accessibility specialist and all-round great guy Neil McCullough, who walked our listeners through how to use ClubHouse, and the developers of ClubDeck, Pierre Stanislas and Philippe Breuils:https://www.blindtechguys.com/86
2) That Real Blind Tech Show 34 | The Definitive Robert Klein Interview Part One
May 23rd 2021Brian and Ed welcome Legendary Comedian, actor, singer, and 13 time performer at Laugh For Sight Robert Klein in to the That Real Blind Tech show podcast bunker:
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-34-the-definitive-robert-klein-interview-part-one
3) Eyes on Success 2122 | Life and Career of Larry Skutchan
May 26th 2021Larry Skutchan has been a key contributor and driver behind many of the access technologies that are familiar names to us these days. This includes the Studio Recorder audio editing program, the Bookport Reader, the Mantis braille display, and much more. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Larry about his life and career now that he is newly retired:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202122.htm
5) Mosen At Large 125
May 26th 2021 Record remote interviews from your iPhone with Backpack Live:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/f56e8ebe/record-remote-interviews-from-your-iphone-with-backpack-live
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) American Foundation for the Blind Presents "The Power of Gratitude and Joy: A Conversation with Rebecca Alexander"
May 27th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | American Foundation for the Blind (AFB), in celebration of 100 years of creating a more inclusive world for people who are blind or visually impaired, has created a series of "Centennial Conversations"—curated webinars focused on the pressing issues and topics affecting people who are blind or have low vision, pairing prominent speakers with younger voices. Rebecca Alexander is an award-winning author, psychotherapist, keynote speaker, disability advocate, and extreme athlete who is almost completely blind and deaf due to Usher syndrome type III. This live event, guided by AFB's Chief Program Officer Megan Aragon is free with required registration. As with all AFB centennial events, this conversation will be accessible, with captions, American Sign Language, audio description, and transcripts made available:https://www.afb.org/afb100/gratitude-joy
2) 2021 Braille Literacy Canada Symposium
June 4th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Braille Literacy Canada (BLC) will be holding a virtual braille symposium. This event will be of interest to braille readers, educators, transcribers, parents and anyone else who is passionate about the empowerment that braille literacy brings. Learn more at:https://www.braillists.org/uncategorised/announcing-the-2021-braille-literacy-canada-symposium-friday-4-june-600-1100-pm/
3) Zoom Webinar | Florida Vision Technology | Florida Assistive Technology Presentation
June 7th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Join Florida Vision Technology for a virtual presentation of the latest and greatest in Assistive Technology including the brand new Envision Glasses and other wearables Check out our most updated catalog of products: https://floridareading.com/downloads. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar. Register in advance for this webinar:https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_cDgpkD0BS4SivMVTMhsGug
4) National Federation of the Blind 2021 National Convention
July 6th 2021 through July 10th 2021 | Register for free to attend the largest gathering of blind people and take advantage of the opportunity to network with thousands of blind role models, connect with leaders in the field of blindness, attend presentations on a variety of empowering topics, and learn about the latest in technology and innovation. Learn more and register here:https://www.nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention
5) Amazon Prime - More Than Just a Delivery Service | Technology User Group (TUG)
June 12th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Many components are included in Amazon Prime, such as Prime Video, Prime Music, Prime Books, Prime Games and many more. Many of these skills can work with Alexa. There are many tips, tricks and secrets to learn to take full advantage of these services. The presentation will be virtual and may be joined by calling the number below. You do not have to RSVP for this event. The presentation will last about 90 minutes:+1 (319) 527-4994 📱️
➜ Surveys
1) Vispero Video Magnifier Survey
Close Date: May 31st 2021 | Do you use our low vision hardware products? If so, we need your help! We want to make changes that ensure a hassle-free experience for you when using our products. Please take our three-minute survey to tell us what is most important to you. In appreciation of your feedback, you will be entered to win one of five Amazon gift cards. The grand prize is a $100 gift card, and the other four gift cards are $25 each. Take the Vispero Video Magnifier Survey today. The survey ends May 31. You must be 18 years of age or older to win the gift card. Vispero employees are not eligible to win.https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VCKDB9P
2) WebAIM Screen Reader User Survey #9
Close Date: June 15th 2021 | The following survey is a follow-up to previous WebAIM Screen Reader User Surveys. This survey is primarily intended to collect new information and track updates/trends from previous surveys. By completing this survey you will help inform development choices for those creating accessible web content and web standards. All screen reader users, even those who use screen readers only for evaluation and testing, are invited to participate:https://webaim.org/projects/screenreadersurvey9/
3) NVDA Satisfaction Survey 2021
Close Date: June 25th 2021 | NV Access are pleased to invite you to participate in the NVDA Satisfaction Survey 2021. As in previous years, this is a simple, three-question survey, open to NVDA users and testers around the world:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1_6qHLmpFPvt4TwWUgVcuzHNxPI45BAdjGjvAD0GFVx8/edit?ts=60a394d2
4) PolyPad Braille Display Needs Assessment
Close Date: July 1st 2021 | Participants must be 18 years or older to participate and able to read braille. We hope that our research will lead to a high quality multi-lined braille display that can be used with a smartphone. Researchers will investigate the quality and usefulness of the product and use the information to improve the development of the device:https://calstatela.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2fPVm4hlLE5hQhg
5) Paid Opportunity to Participate in a Research Study: Studying Tools to Manage and Share Pictures
Close Date: July 16th 2021 | We are a group of researchers at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. We are conducting research to help blind people and people with visual impairments (BVI people) share pictures to social media free of private and sensitive information. We have designed a mobile App to let BVI users screen private and sensitive information of their about-to-share pictures using artificial intelligence (AI) and human effort. Participants must be 18 years of age or older to participate in this research study. Those who complete the study will receive a $20 compensation and $10 for exit interview. Learn more here:https://ischoolillinois.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0vVmhfJViHruycS
➜ Directories
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https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Braillenote Touch Plus in Excellent Condition
Listing Date: 5/20/2021 | Price: $2,000.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: One Braillenote Touch Plus in Excellent Condition. | Contact: sharonklug9304@gmail.com 📧️ or (817) 293-2156 📱️ |2) FOR SALE: One HIMS QBraille XL 40-Cell Smart Display
Listing Date: 5/20/2021 | Price: $1,600.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: Two years old. Onboard applications such as Notepad, DAISY reader, alarm clock, calculator, calendar. Full function keys and modifier keys. Will support up to six bluetooth connections and one USB connection simultaneously. Carrying case included. | Contact: badgertom1@verizon.net 📧️ or (941) 218-9090 📱️ |3) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The wait is over! A redefined family of Brailliant refreshable Braille displays has arrived! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series will help you stay connected, download books from many participating online libraries and share information easily with your peers. You will enjoy the intuitive, seamless user experience of KeySoft Lite, the HumanWare flagship accessibility suite designed to make you more productive. Including the Brailliant BI 40X and the Brailliant BI 20X, this is the Brailliant idea you need!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/070120211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Dolphin creates customized kiosk solutions for every type of service kiosk and every level of vision loss--and that's a win for your service or brand! If you're a business owner or someone who's struggling to access a service via a kiosk, spread the word! Check out this introductory audio/video demonstration highlighting the benefits of Dolphin SuperNova Kiosks!
https://youtu.be/ZoLjah3Wb74
Sponsor Since: January 28th 2021
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Phone (USA & Canada): +1 (866) 797-5921 📱️
Phone (UK, Europe & Asia): +44 01905 754577 📱️
Phone (Nordic & Baltic Contries): +46 0515 82175 📱️
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of GuideConnect
GuideConnect Trial
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of SuperNova
SuperNova Trial
About: Dolphin Computer Access offers a wide array of solutions for students, people in the workforce, and at home who are blind, visually impaired or have dyslexia. Each product is purposefully designed to help users, with varying levels of technology experience, do everyday things EASILY on computers and tablets. Founded in 1986 and located in Worcester England, Dolphin has grown to become a global market leader worldwide.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Accessible Pharmacy, the new, home delivery pharmacy with a blind founder, is bringing its full range of support and services to Be My Eyes. Users of the Be My Eyes app can now call Accessible Pharmacy directly to get support with medication, medical devices, and even home delivery COVID testing. With a fully trained and discreet pharmacy staff on call from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Pacific, Accessible Pharmacy is the new way for blind and low vision consumers to get an easy, frictionless pharmacy experience. Call today — and you'll never have to take an Uber to the drugstore again.
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Revolution Cane Tip: Standard Roller Tip: $14.50 | Locator Dots: Small Pack of 6 (Clear or Orange): $2.00 | NFB Metal Cane Tip: $3.00 | TMAP - On Demand Tactile Street | Map (set of two maps): $25.00 | Ambutech Aluminum Folding Cane: $35.00 | NFB Chris Park Telescoping Cane: $45.00 | BoldWriter 20 Pen (Individual or 6-pack): $2.00 | Bump Dots: Mixed (50 count): $7.00 | Braille Apple Catalina VoiceOver Guide OSX 10.15 (3 volumes) - Latest Manual: $52.00 | SpeedDots iPhone Tactile Screen Protector, Phone Layout: $12.00 | NFB Chris Park 7-Piece Folding Cane: $50.00 | Visit https://adaptations.org/ to learn more today!
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The BRIC: Structures® Access Kit combines ordinary building bricks with Snap Circuits® to create 26 projects, such as circuits and real-world structures, that run on electricity. Visit https://www.aph.org/product/bric-structures-access-kit/ to learn more.
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
We have a new hands free 5 pocket rugged cowhide leather neck pouch that will fit any phone. It can go on your belt or carry it crossbody; $40.00. We have a unique leather case to protect your 20 cell Braille display. It feels like a thick book with a zipper down the middle. It's actually a concealed weapons case with carrying straps; no Braille display has ever been more secure. Call Barry: (617) 969-7500 📱️ or Kae: (781) 286-1696 📱️.
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
If you're like me, you probably have more things to plug into your computer than available ports. That's why we've now added the Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub. Plug it into your laptop and you will get 3 USB ports, SD and Micro SD card slots, a USBC charging port, and an HDMI video port. It's available now for just $29.95:
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: John Panarese
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
High profile Apple Trainer and Consultant John Panarese is teaming up with Apple Certified Support Professional Donna Jodhan to offer you a very rare and unique opportunity! Yes! An opportunity for you to say what is on your mind! Coming on May 22nd 2021! Your chance to provide feedback to Apple about their iOS devices and Mac Computers! To register please send an email to john@macfortheblind.com 📧️. There are a few spaces left! To learn more about John and his incredible work visit him at:
https://macfortheblind.com/
Director, https://www.MacForTheBlind.com
Authorized Apple Business Affiliate
Apple Certified Support Professional
Apple Certified Trainer
Assistive Technology Consultant
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://www.macfortheblind.com/ 🌐
Donate Course Time: https://donorbox.org/macfortheblind ❤
Email: john@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: Dean Martineau
➜ 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 if interested at:
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: Commtech USA
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
https://commtechusa.net/store
Sponsor Since: April 22nd 2021
Website: https://commtechusa.net/ 🌐
Phone: (833) 345-8324 📱️
About: Commtech USA, a division of Commtech LLC is a Phoenix based national assistive technology company, with locations in Bakersfield CA. We deliver unmatched information technology and assistive technology consultations, training and support. Founded in 2005 as a government vendor fulfilling a vast range of technology needs of federal and state government clients, Commtech USA has expanded to meet the needs of businesses as well as individuals, with office locations across the nation. No issue is too large or too small for our staff, Commtech USA is the on call technology staff you call when you have tried the rest but need the best!
Book an appointment with Commtech.
Meet the Commtech USA Staff in this YouTube video.
Download The App (iOS):
Commtech USA for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Commtech USA for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Our world-class refreshable Braille displays deliver efficient Braille input and outstanding output for your PC or mobile device. The robust Bluetooth® connectivity provides seamless use with Windows®, Mac®, iPhones®, iPads®, and AndroidTM smartphones and tablets. Ergonomic navigation features allow quick, natural hand movements for greater productivity. When used with JAWS® screen reading software, they support our popular Braille Study Mode, an interactive tool for teaching and learning Braille. Learn more today:
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Join Dr. Alexis G. Malkin of the New England College of Optometry and David Bradburn of HumanWare on June 15th 2021 at 12:30 PM ET for an overview of assistive technology and services that help people with low vision perform everyday tasks. Presenters will illustrate the needs, available services, and funding for 3 different groups: a low vision student, a professional working remotely, and a patient with multiple disabilities. Different funding options will be discussed including federal funding for students in K-12 education at:
https://aphconnectcenter.org/
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, May 20, 2021 - Volume 807 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, May 20, 2021 - Volume 807
The Week's News in Access Technologyhttps://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
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Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Windows 10 Keyboard Shortcuts Cheatsheet: (9.3% of all clicks.)https://www.maketecheasier.com/cheatsheet/windows-10-keyboard-shortcuts-cheatsheet/
B.) Guide Dog on Wheels Detects Obstacles and Traffic Light Signals: (7.4% of all clicks.)
https://coolblindtech.com/guide-dog-on-wheels-detects-obstacles-and-traffic-light-signals/
C.) Smartphone App Helps Blind People Stand in Socially Distanced Lines: (5.1% of all clicks.)
https://www.slashgear.com/smartphone-app-helps-blind-people-stand-in-socially-distanced-lines-10672088/
D.) Bose Debuts $850 SoundControl Hearing Aids: (4.2% of all clicks.)
https://www.cnet.com/news/bose-debuts-850-soundcontrol-hearing-aids/#ftag=CADf328eec
E.) Brailliant BI 20X Braille Display Review: (4.0% of all clicks.)
https://www.vitaltech.org.uk/theme/brailliant-bi-20x-braille-display/
2) Today is 10th Annual Global Accessibility Awareness Day
Recognized on the 3rd Thursday in May of each year, today we celebrate Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD). GAAD is a day to bring awareness to, and educate people globally on, the importance of digital accessibility for people with disabilities and impairments, including the more than one billion people who are blind or visually impaired, hard of hearing, or have motor and/or cognitive disabilities:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Global_Accessibility_Awareness_Day
3) One Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Package Available as of June 4th 2021
If you are on our waiting list you have already been notified of this availability. As of this writing this sponsorship package is still available. If you would like to join us in supporting Tidbits while enjoying some really incredible marketing benefits please reach out to our publisher today at: publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️. Or learn more at:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html
4) Chicago Lighthouse Celebrates GAAD with Accessibility 101 Crash Course Website
In celebration of 2021 Global Accessibility Awareness Day The Chicago Lighthouse has launched a #GAAD website. The site is filled with fun facts and interactive experiences like the Mouse Trap Challenge. In this activity people have to attempt to navigate their favorite website without using a mouse. The idea is that they will get a feel for how those of us who are blind navigate websites with only our keyboard. Additionally, they will be interviewing Joe Devon, the creator of #GAAD in a couple of weeks:https://chicagolighthouse.org/gaad/
5) WebAIM Million - 2021 Update
The 2021 WebAIM Million Report is now available. This annual accessibility analysis of the home pages of the top one million web sites provides insight into the current state of and trends for web accessibility. The report provides details into technical aspects of accessibility and comparisons for many types of home page categories, such as by TLD, document language, site sector, and technologies in use. The WAVE web accessibility testing tool was used to analyze the 1,000,000 home pages:https://webaim.org/projects/million/
6) 'Today at Apple' Celebrates Global Accessibility Awareness Day With Sessions Presented in American Sign Language
Apple will offer Getting Started with iPhone and Getting Started with iPad sessions presented live in American Sign Language and using VoiceOver. Getting Started sessions cover the fundamentals of iOS and iPadOS, customization, and favorite tips. Learn more at:https://9to5mac.com/2021/05/14/today-at-apple-gaad-virtual-sessions/
7) Microsoft Kicks Off The Rollout of Windows 10 21H1
Microsoft is starting to roll out its Windows 10 21H1 feature update. Here's how and where you can get it:https://www.zdnet.com/article/microsoft-kicks-off-the-rollout-of-windows-10-21h1/#ftag=RSSbaffb68
8) Apple Previews Powerful Software Updates Designed for People with Disabilities
Apple has announced powerful software features designed for people with mobility, vision, hearing, and cognitive disabilities. These next-generation technologies showcase Apple's belief that accessibility is a human right and advance the company's long history of delivering industry-leading features that make Apple products customizable for all users. Apple is also launching a new service on Thursday, May 20th 2021, called SignTime. This enables customers to communicate with AppleCare and Retail Customer Care by using American Sign Language (ASL) in the US, British Sign Language (BSL) in the UK, or French Sign Language (LSF) in France, right in their web browsers:https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2021/05/apple-previews-powerful-software-updates-designed-for-people-with-disabilities/
9) A Chance to Get Some High Quality Training
Courtesy of Caroline Toews of Hartgen Consultancy. Learn more today at:http://www.hartgen.org/remote
10) NV Access In-Process for May 14th 2021: Customising Shortcut Keys in Word
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-14th-may-2021/11) PenFriend 3 Voice Labeling System
Individuals with visual impairments often require assistance finding specific items around their home or office. The PenFriend 3 Voice Labeling System is one potential solution. According to MaxiAids, the PenFriend 3 is a "best-selling, affordable audio labeler for users who are blind or visually impaired:"https://www.eastersealstech.com/2021/05/13/penfriend-3-voice-labeling-system/
12) A Detailed Demo of Clubhouse on Android
Courtesy of Blind Android Users. At this time Clubhouse is only available in some regions of the world and some features are not available in all regions:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AUoHrJnTP2I
13) Fellow Tidbits Reader Seeks Fellow Police Scanner Enthusiasts To Trade Tips and Tricks
This Tidbits reader writes, "I've enjoyed listening to fire, police, and airport communications using a police scanner since they started making digital radios back in the 80's. As communication technology has evolved over time, these scanners have become more and more difficult to use by blind or low vision folks because they are now controlled by inaccessible menus. What's worse is that, although there is PC-based software available to get around using the menus, just about all of these paid programs don't work with screen readers like JAWS or NVDA. There's a web site called scannerschool.com that has a lot of information about the scanner hobby including podcasts and online courses. I contacted the owner of that site with a question I had, and he became very interested in learning about how I used my scanners without being able to read the menus. He even went so far as to feature me in one of his weekly podcasts! Do you enjoy listening to all the action going on in your area, and are you frustrated because it's too hard to use the newer scanners that have come out lately? If so, come join me in a user group I've set up on groups.io where we can all get together and share ideas and maybe some tips and tricks to actually get even more enjoyment out of these radios. Also, I did find one free and open-source program that does partially work with both JAWS and NVDA, and I use this program all the time. One of my other hopes is that perhaps a developer who knows the language that this free program is written in might discover us, and then be interested in taking a look to see if anything can be done to improve accessibility. To learn more go to: https://groups.io/g/bdigitalscan. To subscribe, send a blank message to:bdigitalscan+subscribe@groups.io 📧️
14) How To Turn On (and Off) Windows Startup Sound In Windows 10 Computers
Courtesy of Wccftech:https://wccftech.com/how-to/windows-startup-sound-windows-10-computers/
15) Portable Podcasting with PodTrak
This is a podcast from the Tech Doctors about the Zoom PodTrak P4 unit, which is gaining some popularity:https://www.dr-carter.com
16) Another Zoom PodTrak podcast
This one comes from David Woodbridge down under:https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/ed99sb/first_test_demo_of_the_Zoom_Podtrak_P49850w.mp3
17) Desmos Accessible Graphing Calendar
This is a recording of a presentation on an accessible scientific and graphing calculator app for windows, iOS and Mac:https://media.ed.ac.uk/media/Webinar%2020%3A%20Introduction%20to%20the%20%20Desmos%20Graphing%20Calculator/1_7lwhj9qy
18) Accessible Purchase of CCleaner
Some people use CCleaner to help their computer run efficiently. A user reports that it was difficult to purchase the program, but he was given a link to a more accessible purchasing process:https://secure.ccleaner.com/502/uurl-hz78kbqunz?x-campaign=1&x-origin=2&x-variant=1
19) May 2021 Braille Monitor
Articles relevant to Tidbits include "Overreliance on Overlays is Counter to Enculturation of Accessibility," "A Simple Resume Format," and "The MiniVision2: A Solid Basic Cell Phone:"https://nfb.org/images/nfb/publications/bm/bm21/bm2105/bm2105tc.htm
20) New Features in JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion
A lot is new in the May 2021 Update: Quick Access Bar for navigation programs, ability to navigate through message threads in Outlook, a braille math editor, Voice Assistant improvements, download notifications in Edge, and more:https://webfriendlyhelp.com/new-features-in-jaws-zoomtext-and-fusion-5/
21) Spanish Podcast Episode About New Versions of Mantis Q and Chameleon Displays
This episode of the Tiflo audio podcast is here:http://media.blubrry.com/tifloaudio/s/www.tifloaudio.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/ta170.mp3
And here are the show notes:
https://www.tifloaudio.com/2021/05/tiflo-audio-podcast-170-nueva-actualizacion-linea-braille-mantis-q40-incluye-idioma-espanol-y-da-apoyo-a-documentos-pdf/
And finally, a text transcript:
http://www.tifloaudio.com/texto/170texto.html
22) Microsoft Teams JAWS Scripts
These are paid scripts offering efficient access to Teams:http://www.hartgen.org/audio/teamsdemo.mp3
And a written transcript:
http://www.hartgen.org/teamstext
23) Reaping the Benefits! Using Reaper Audio Workstation, OSARA and JAWS for Windows:
This updated $120 course starts on June 30th 2021:http://www.hartgen.org/reaper
24) 3 Updates on the Spotify Mobile Experience to Help Improve Accessibility
Positive progress:https://newsroom.spotify.com/2021-05-18/3-updates-on-the-spotify-mobile-experience-to-help-improve-accessibility/
25) Additions to Nathan Tech's Software Page
We have updates to Luna RSS, Network Utilities and Scientific Calculator:https://nathantech.net/nathantechsoftware.php
26) Internet Explorer 11 (IE11) Desktop Application Retires on Windows 10 on June 15, 2022
Today Microsoft announced that the future of Internet Explorer on Windows 10 is in Microsoft Edge. Internet Explorer mode (IE mode) provides legacy browser support within Microsoft Edge. Because of this, the IE11 desktop application will be retired on June 15, 2022. This means that the IE11 desktop application will no longer be supported and afterwards will redirect to Microsoft Edge if a user tries to access it:https://blogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/2021/05/19/the-future-of-internet-explorer-on-windows-10-is-in-microsoft-edge/
27) HumanWare is Seeking Private Beta Testers
If you use a BrailleNote Touch Plus notetaker or Brailliant BI X braille display, and would be interested in testing new software before it's released to the general public, we encourage you to read the below message from Andrew Flatres, Product Manager - Braille Products, HumanWare:https://www.braillists.org/uncategorised/humanware-is-seeking-private-beta-testers/
28) iOS 14.6 Release Date, Features and What We Know About So Far
iOS 14.6 could land soon with at least five new features:https://www.techradar.com/news/ios-146-release-date-features-and-what-we-know-about-so-far
29) LibreOffice 7.0.6 Has Been Released
https://blog.documentfoundation.org/blog/2021/05/13/libreoffice-706/30) IBM Unveils App to Help Visually Impaired Users Maintain Distance in Lines
The app is designed to help blind or visually impaired people find the end of the line and continuously report the distance and direction of the last person in line so the user can follow them easily. The app uses the RGB camera integrated into the smartphone and detects nearby pedestrians. It also leverages the integrated infrared depth sensor to estimate their position:https://coolblindtech.com/ibm-unveils-app-to-help-visually-impaired-users-maintain-distance-in-lines/
31) New Braille Book Swap Email List
Tim Pennick, a member of the Braillists Forum, has set up an experimental list for the exchange of information about braille books available for passing on to future readers. The list is called BrailleBookSwap@groups.io. The description of the group which he has initially set up is as follows: "This group has been set up to facilitate the exchange of hard-copy braille books primarily in the UK. The RNIB has recently withdrawn braille library facilities, replacing them with single use production of books which can be retained or recycled but not returned. The Braille Book Swap list is available to reduce the destruction of books which might be read several times, thus reducing the consumption of paper, and the energy required to emboss a new copy. The method for transporting books is left to individuals though surviving RNIB canvas book bags would be ideal. Members wishing to make a book available are encouraged to post a short review of the book and the number of braille pamphlets it consists of. You should be able to send a subscription request simply by sending an email message to BrailleBookSwap+subscribe@groups.io 📧️ however, Tim has found in the past that there are some issues with this mechanism, e.g. some email clients won't allow you to send a message without adding a word or two in the subject line and message body. If you don't manage to set things up using this method, drop a line to tim.pennick@btinternet.com 📧️, and Tim will send you a personal invitation:https://www.braillists.org/uncategorised/new-braille-book-swap-email-list/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Computer Science Senior Creates Tech to Help Students with Visual Impairments Learn to Code
Samuel Alex Atcheson developed a 3D-printed system to teach coding syntax to people with visual impairments using the sense of touch:https://viterbischool.usc.edu/news/2021/05/computer-science-senior-creates-tech-to-help-students-with-visual-impairments-learn-to-code/
2) How to Create Accessible Posts on Instagram
Instagram isn't only popular among sighted users. There are many legally blind people with active Instagram accounts. In fact, according to the Royal National Institute of Blind People, 93% of blind people have some level of partial vision. When you also include deaf users - images are silent after all - the number of disabled people who may be accessing your Instagram content may be higher than you think. That's why the accessibility of your posts is so immensely important - even if the impact on you may be nothing at all. The following tips and advice can help you to develop processes and plan your visual content so that all of your followers - whatever their situation - can enjoy your Instagram account:https://www.business2community.com/instagram/how-to-create-accessible-posts-on-instagram-02405647
3) Accessibility And Outdoor Socialising: 'I Feel Unwelcome in My Own City'
There's probably quite a nice vibe on your high street at the moment, with tables outside restaurants and bars as people catch up with each other face-to-face for the first time in months. People are enjoying a little bit of normality again by making the most of the UK's pavements and pedestrianised areas, since lockdown rules eased to allow people to socialise outdoors. But it's not been great news for everyone. Some disabled people, especially wheelchair users, have seen reduced access to certain streets and parts of their hometown. Earlier this month, accessibility campaigner Katie Pennick shared her experiences of trying to get through the streets of Soho, London - and received thousands of responses:https://www.bbc.com/news/newsbeat-57072498
4) Xbox Introduces Party Chat Text-To-Speech Transcripts
Xbox has added new accessibility features for Xbox Insiders via new text-to-speech and speech-to-text options, with a wide roll out coming soon:https://screenrant.com/xbox-party-chat-text-speech-transcripts/
5) Seattle Nonprofit Empowers Blind People to Access Job Training and Employment
The Lighthouse for the Blind is 103 years strong. It's now the largest employer for blind individuals on the West Coast:https://www.king5.com/article/news/local/the-lighthouse-for-the-blind-seattle-provides-job-training-essential-skills-for-deafblind-people/281-df6c1eca-b663-4f74-8910-006eef888c2b
6) Helen Keller Barbie Joins Mattel's "Inspiring Women" Line
This week Mattel announced its newest addition to its Inspiring Women line: Helen Keller. The company says Keller's lifetime achievements as a renowned author, speaker, educator and advocate make her an extraordinary role model. Keller was the first deaf and blind person to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree:https://www.arklatexhomepage.com/news/top-stories/helen-keller-barbie-joins-mattels-inspiring-women-line/
7) Accessible Birding for Every Body
Founded in 2016 by Virginia Rose, who lost her ability to walk after an accident at age 14, and co-led by occupational therapist and avid birder Freya McGregor, Birdability partnered with National Audubon and has accomplished the following:https://baynature.org/2021/05/13/accessible-birding-for-every-body/
8) Guide Dogs for the Blind and The Seeing Eye Create Video to Help Airlines and Airports Assist Travelers Who Are Visually Impaired
The video includes best practices and tips for helping travelers who are blind or visually impaired:https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210518005018/en/Guide-Dogs-for-the-Blind-and-The-Seeing-Eye-Create-Video-to-Help-Airlines-and-Airports-Assist-Travelers-Who-Are-Visually-Impaired
9) Deep Dive: Can Anyone Be Truly Anonymous Online?
If this topic interests you, the title is no exaggeration. This articles offers an incredibly deep and detailed dive into the topic of online anonymity:https://www.vpnmentor.com/blog/can-anyone-be-truly-anonymous-online/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Hadley Presents: Tips from a Low Vision Doctor
May 14th 2021 | In this episode, we chat with low vision optometrist Dr. Mark Wilkinson from the University of Iowa. Dr. Wilkinson answers common questions and shares his advice for getting the most out of low vision optometry appointments:https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/tips-low-vision-doctor
2) That Real Blind Tech Show 33 | Amazon Prime Video Demo of Audio Description and App
May 18th 2021Because it was a slow work day, Brian decided to do a demo of Amazon Prime Video. Amazon Prime Video has recently exploded with the amount of Audio Described content in their collection:
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-33-amazon-prime-video-demo-of-audio-description-and-app
3) Blind Tech Guys 85 | Listen To Music While Managing Your Files
May 18th 2021 | On this episode of the pod, we compare the web apps of Dropbox and Google Drive, Nimer demonstrates Spotify on the web and Marco runs us through sound settings on a Samsung S21 Ultra:https://www.blindtechguys.com/85
4) Eyes on Success 2121 | 2121 Louie Voice Control
May 19th 2021Imagine being able to fully control popular smartphone apps and functionality with just voice commands! That is what the Louie Voice Control system enables. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Pramit Bhargava whose own vision loss inspired the concept and led to its development. Hear the system in action and how it can be used to perform everyday tasks:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202121.htm
5) Blind Android Users 24 | Comments on Google IO Keynote And What's New in Android 12 Beta 1
May 19th 2021https://blindandroidusers.com
6) Mosen At Large 123
May 19th 2021 Brian Hartgen of Hartgen Consultancy:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/71585603/brian-hartgen-of-hartgen-consultancy
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) ACB Global Accessibility Awareness Day Event
May 20th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join the American Council of the Blind on Thursday, May 20th, at 1pm EST for a special 10th-anniversary celebration of Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) as ACB's Executive Director Eric Bridges leads a conversation with digital accessibility leaders Jennison Asuncion and Mike Shebanek. Together, Eric, Jennison and Mike will look back at the growth taken place over the past decade in digital accessibility and forecast what new challenges and opportunities rest just beyond the horizon. Co-founder of Global Accessibility awareness Day, Jennison Asuncion currently serves as the head of accessibility for LinkedIn. GAAD is an annual, grassroots effort inviting the broader, high-tech community around the world to participate in in-person and virtual activities intended to raise awareness of digital accessibility issues that people with different disabilities encounter. A long-time pioneer in the space of digital accessibility, Mike Shebanek currently leads Accessibility for Facebook. A co-founder of the Teach-Access movement while at Yahoo, Mike revolutionized the field earlier when he introduced while at Apple the Voiceover text-to-speech application, which was included for free in Mac OS and IOS devices. The event will be streamed over ACB's social media channels and on ACB Radio. To access the live stream you can also visit:https://www.acb.org/live
2) University of Phoenix Diversity Webcast Panel on Global Accessibility Awareness Day
May 20th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | The University of Phoenix will host a diversity webcast panel on Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD). The panel will examine leading practices on accessibility as part of diversity, equity and inclusion and what steps employers need to take within their companies to create a culture of accessibility that supports employees and customers. To learn more or to register for the panel:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/inclusive-leadership-accessibility-and-inclusion-for-all-tickets-150922648705
3) The Impact of Digital Accessibility on People who are Blind or Visually Impaired | GAAD Webinar by the Carroll Center for the Blind
May 20th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Today marks the tenth annual Global Accessibility Awareness Day. To get everyone thinking and talking about what inclusion and accessibility means, and how we can all make a difference, the experts from the Accessibility Services team at the Carroll Center for the Blind will be hosting a conversation with three panelists who are blind. They will discuss how they utilize various devices to access digital content for education, employment, and daily living tasks. Learn about their triumphs and frustrations with digital accessibility by joining us for this free webinar, The Impact of Digital Accessibility on People who are Blind or Visually Impaired. Register at:https://bit.ly/GAADatCCB
4) Outlook, Tips and Tricks from Power Users | Freedom Scientific Webinar
May 20th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Are you looking for ways to navigate your email faster? Want tips to increase productivity? Join us for this live webinar. We will show you valuable tasks that will help you use Outlook more efficiently. Topics include how to add items to the Access Bar, how to use the search feature to quickly locate items in the Ribbon, and how to create an email signature. *ACVREP credits will be available for those who attend the live webinar. Register here:https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_tsXcZIHpTjCtbsyLi4L_rQ
5) Zoom Webinar from Florida Outreach Center for the Blind: Meet Brian Hartgen of Hartgen Consultancy
May 20th 2021 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Hartgen Consultancy offers a wide variety of applications for the Jaws screen reader as well as for the combination of JAWS and Zoomtext known as Fusion from Freedom Scientific. In addition, Hartgen Consultancy offers unparallel tutorials on many popular programs Along with a range of training services, scripting, and products to support the JAWS screen-reader and ZoomText Fusion product from Vispero. With a portfolio of products being used by people in many countries, together with delivering individual and group training in a range of computing applications, the company also carries out JAWS programming for a wide range of corporate organizations and companies to ensure blind people stay in employment. Ease of use, efficiency and high-quality documentation is at the heart of everything they do. Brian Hartgen has worked within the Assistive Technology space for 25 years. He regularly trains people who are blind and who may also have additional disabilities to use computer technology. Brian is totally blind and is a user of JAWS. He has been a beta tester for JAWS for many years and creates script files which are part of the screen-reader used by people all around the world. | One tap mobile: +13126266799,,#,# | Direct Dial: +1 (312) 626-6799 | Meeting ID: 561 642 0005 | If the system prompts you to enter a participant code, press the pound key. Please join using the following link:https://zoom.us/j/5616420005
6) Zoom Webinar by World-Renowned Apple Trainer and Consultant John Panarese and Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP) Donna Jodhan
May 22nd 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Share your thoughts and suggestions as to how Apple can further enhance and improve its products to meet the requirements of blind and vision impaired persons. Share your dreams and visions as to how we can foster more collaboration with Apple. To register, please send an email to the following address no later than 12:00 Noon EST on Friday May 21st 2021:john@macfortheblind.com 📧️
7) American Foundation for the Blind Presents "The Power of Gratitude and Joy: A Conversation with Rebecca Alexander"
May 27th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | American Foundation for the Blind (AFB), in celebration of 100 years of creating a more inclusive world for people who are blind or visually impaired, has created a series of "Centennial Conversations"—curated webinars focused on the pressing issues and topics affecting people who are blind or have low vision, pairing prominent speakers with younger voices. Rebecca Alexander is an award-winning author, psychotherapist, keynote speaker, disability advocate, and extreme athlete who is almost completely blind and deaf due to Usher syndrome type III. This live event, guided by AFB's Chief Program Officer Megan Aragon is free with required registration. As with all AFB centennial events, this conversation will be accessible, with captions, American Sign Language, audio description, and transcripts made available:https://www.afb.org/afb100/gratitude-joy
8) 2021 Braille Literacy Canada Symposium
June 4th 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Braille Literacy Canada (BLC) will be holding a virtual braille symposium. This event will be of interest to braille readers, educators, transcribers, parents and anyone else who is passionate about the empowerment that braille literacy brings. Learn more at:https://www.braillists.org/uncategorised/announcing-the-2021-braille-literacy-canada-symposium-friday-4-june-600-1100-pm/
9) Zoom Webinar | Florida Vision Technology | Florida Assistive Technology Presentation
June 7th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Join Florida Vision Technology for a virtual presentation of the latest and greatest in Assistive Technology including the brand new Envision Glasses and other wearables Check out our most updated catalog of products: https://floridareading.com/downloads. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar. Register in advance for this webinar:https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_cDgpkD0BS4SivMVTMhsGug
10) National Federation of the Blind 2021 National Convention
July 6th 2021 through July 10th 2021 | Register for free to attend the largest gathering of blind people and take advantage of the opportunity to network with thousands of blind role models, connect with leaders in the field of blindness, attend presentations on a variety of empowering topics, and learn about the latest in technology and innovation. Learn more and register here:https://www.nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention
11) Amazon Prime - More Than Just a Delivery Service | Technology User Group (TUG)
June 12th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Many components are included in Amazon Prime, such as Prime Video, Prime Music, Prime Books, Prime Games and many more. Many of these skills can work with Alexa. There are many tips, tricks and secrets to learn to take full advantage of these services. The presentation will be virtual and may be joined by calling the number below. You do not have to RSVP for this event. The presentation will last about 90 minutes:+1 (319) 527-4994 📱️
➜ Surveys
1) Vispero Video Magnifier Survey
Close Date: May 31st 2021 | Do you use our low vision hardware products? If so, we need your help! We want to make changes that ensure a hassle-free experience for you when using our products. Please take our three-minute survey to tell us what is most important to you. In appreciation of your feedback, you will be entered to win one of five Amazon gift cards. The grand prize is a $100 gift card, and the other four gift cards are $25 each. Take the Vispero Video Magnifier Survey today. The survey ends May 31. You must be 18 years of age or older to win the gift card. Vispero employees are not eligible to win.https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VCKDB9P
2) WebAIM Screen Reader User Survey #9
Close Date: June 15th 2021 | The following survey is a follow-up to previous WebAIM Screen Reader User Surveys. This survey is primarily intended to collect new information and track updates/trends from previous surveys. By completing this survey you will help inform development choices for those creating accessible web content and web standards. All screen reader users, even those who use screen readers only for evaluation and testing, are invited to participate:https://webaim.org/projects/screenreadersurvey9/
3) PolyPad Braille Display Needs Assessment
Close Date: July 1st 2021 | Participants must be 18 years or older to participate and able to read braille. We hope that our research will lead to a high quality multi-lined braille display that can be used with a smartphone. Researchers will investigate the quality and usefulness of the product and use the information to improve the development of the device:https://calstatela.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2fPVm4hlLE5hQhg
4) Paid Opportunity to Participate in a Research Study: Studying Tools to Manage and Share Pictures
Close Date: July 16th 2021 | We are a group of researchers at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. We are conducting research to help blind people and people with visual impairments (BVI people) share pictures to social media free of private and sensitive information. We have designed a mobile App to let BVI users screen private and sensitive information of their about-to-share pictures using artificial intelligence (AI) and human effort. Participants must be 18 years of age or older to participate in this research study. Those who complete the study will receive a $20 compensation and $10 for exit interview. Learn more here:https://ischoolillinois.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0vVmhfJViHruycS
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Braillenote Touch Plus in Excellent Condition
Listing Date: 5/20/2021 | Price: $2,000.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: One Braillenote Touch Plus in Excellent Condition. | Contact: sharonklug9304@gmail.com 📧️ or (817) 293-2156 📱️ |2) FOR SALE: One HIMS QBraille XL 40-Cell Smart Display
Listing Date: 5/20/2021 | Price: $1,600.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: Two years old. Onboard applications such as Notepad, DAISY reader, alarm clock, calculator, calendar. Full function keys and modifier keys. Will support up to six bluetooth connections and one USB connection simultaneously. Carrying case included. | Contact: badgertom1@verizon.net 📧️ or (941) 218-9090 📱️ |3) FOR SALE: One Eye Scan Reading Machine
Listing Date: 4/29/2021 | Price: $900.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: Scan text and hear it read back to you. Offers storage capability of up to 20 pages in memory. Includes: Reader with Eye-Scan software installed, Flatbed Scanner, Custom Oversized Tactile Eye-Scan Keypad and internal speakers. | Contact: lauraofte52@gmail.com 📧️ or (510) 851-3716 📱️ |4) FOR SALE: One HIMS QBraille XL 40 Smart Display
Listing Date: 4/22/2021 | Price: $2,500.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: A 40 cell display that has all the control keys found on PC/Mac. You can read/type in braille with the Perkins but not have to learn specific screen reader commands. USB/bluetooth, and it can take standalone notes, has a calendar etc. Reasonable offers OK. | Contact: therealvictormarques@gmail.com 📧️ or (269) 358-8853 📱️ |5) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Dolphin creates customized kiosk solutions for every type of service kiosk and every level of vision loss--and that's a win for your service or brand! If you're a business owner or someone who's struggling to access a service via a kiosk, spread the word! Check out this introductory audio/video demonstration highlighting the benefits of Dolphin SuperNova Kiosks!
https://youtu.be/ZoLjah3Wb74
Sponsor Since: January 28th 2021
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Phone (USA & Canada): +1 (866) 797-5921 📱️
Phone (UK, Europe & Asia): +44 01905 754577 📱️
Phone (Nordic & Baltic Contries): +46 0515 82175 📱️
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of GuideConnect
GuideConnect Trial
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of SuperNova
SuperNova Trial
About: Dolphin Computer Access offers a wide array of solutions for students, people in the workforce, and at home who are blind, visually impaired or have dyslexia. Each product is purposefully designed to help users, with varying levels of technology experience, do everyday things EASILY on computers and tablets. Founded in 1986 and located in Worcester England, Dolphin has grown to become a global market leader worldwide.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Accessible Pharmacy, the new, home delivery pharmacy with a blind founder, is bringing its full range of support and services to Be My Eyes. Users of the Be My Eyes app can now call Accessible Pharmacy directly to get support with medication, medical devices, and even home delivery COVID testing. With a fully trained and discreet pharmacy staff on call from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Pacific, Accessible Pharmacy is the new way for blind and low vision consumers to get an easy, frictionless pharmacy experience. Call today — and you'll never have to take an Uber to the drugstore again.
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Revolution Cane Tip: Standard Roller Tip: $14.50 | Locator Dots: Small Pack of 6 (Clear or Orange): $2.00 | NFB Metal Cane Tip: $3.00 | TMAP - On Demand Tactile Street | Map (set of two maps): $25.00 | Ambutech Aluminum Folding Cane: $35.00 | NFB Chris Park Telescoping Cane: $45.00 | BoldWriter 20 Pen (Individual or 6-pack): $2.00 | Bump Dots: Mixed (50 count): $7.00 | Braille Apple Catalina VoiceOver Guide OSX 10.15 (3 volumes) - Latest Manual: $52.00 | SpeedDots iPhone Tactile Screen Protector, Phone Layout: $12.00 | NFB Chris Park 7-Piece Folding Cane: $50.00 | Visit https://adaptations.org/ to learn more today!
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The BRIC: Structures® Access Kit combines ordinary building bricks with Snap Circuits® to create 26 projects, such as circuits and real-world structures, that run on electricity. Visit https://www.aph.org/product/bric-structures-access-kit/ to learn more.
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Non-Contact Infrared Talking Thermometer, and talking BP meter; Accurate, easy to use, clear voice; one cuff fits all, $50 each. New! Our tough cowhide leather on-the-go case with 5 pockets to hold your essentials, 5x7x3; wear as neck pouch or crossbody $40. New! Protect your 20 cell Braille display investment with a hollow padded book size leather folio case. It's truly unique, both for its style and function, $55. Conventions are just around the corner, with lots of specials on leather bags, electronics, and dog products. Call Barry: (617) 969-7500 📱️ or Kae: (781) 286-1696 📱️.
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
If you're like me, you probably have more things to plug into your computer than available ports. That's why we've now added the Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub. Plug it into your laptop and you will get 3 USB ports, SD and Micro SD card slots, a USBC charging port, and an HDMI video port. It's available now for just $29.95:
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: John Panarese
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
High profile Apple Trainer and Consultant John Panarese is teaming up with Apple Certified Support Professional Donna Jodhan to offer you a very rare and unique opportunity! Yes! An opportunity for you to say what is on your mind! Coming on May 22nd 2021! Your chance to provide feedback to Apple about their iOS devices and Mac Computers! To register please send an email to john@macfortheblind.com 📧️. There are a few spaces left! To learn more about John and his incredible work visit him at:
https://macfortheblind.com/
Director, https://www.MacForTheBlind.com
Authorized Apple Business Affiliate
Apple Certified Support Professional
Apple Certified Trainer
Assistive Technology Consultant
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://www.macfortheblind.com/ 🌐
Donate Course Time: https://donorbox.org/macfortheblind ❤
Email: john@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: Dean Martineau
➜ 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 if interested at:
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: Commtech USA
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
https://commtechusa.net/store
Sponsor Since: April 22nd 2021
Website: https://commtechusa.net/ 🌐
Phone: (833) 345-8324 📱️
About: Commtech USA, a division of Commtech LLC is a Phoenix based national assistive technology company, with locations in Bakersfield CA. We deliver unmatched information technology and assistive technology consultations, training and support. Founded in 2005 as a government vendor fulfilling a vast range of technology needs of federal and state government clients, Commtech USA has expanded to meet the needs of businesses as well as individuals, with office locations across the nation. No issue is too large or too small for our staff, Commtech USA is the on call technology staff you call when you have tried the rest but need the best!
Book an appointment with Commtech.
Meet the Commtech USA Staff in this YouTube video.
Download The App (iOS):
Commtech USA for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Commtech USA for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Our world-class refreshable Braille displays deliver efficient Braille input and outstanding output for your PC or mobile device. The robust Bluetooth® connectivity provides seamless use with Windows®, Mac®, iPhones®, iPads®, and AndroidTM smartphones and tablets. Ergonomic navigation features allow quick, natural hand movements for greater productivity. When used with JAWS® screen reading software, they support our popular Braille Study Mode, an interactive tool for teaching and learning Braille. Learn more today:
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
VisionAware Resources Including the Information and Referral Line APH ConnectCenter has resources to help blind and low vision people thrive. In addition to the Reader's Digest Getting Started with Vision Loss Guide You can also call the Information and Referral Line with your questions about resources and living with blindness and low vision.
https://visionaware.org/thrive
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The wait is over! A redefined family of Brailliant refreshable Braille displays has arrived! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series will help you stay connected, download books from many participating online libraries and share information easily with your peers. You will enjoy the intuitive, seamless user experience of KeySoft Lite, the HumanWare flagship accessibility suite designed to make you more productive. Including the Brailliant BI 40X and the Brailliant BI 20X, this is the Brailliant idea you need!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/070120211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
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|
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, May 13, 2021 - Volume 806 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, May 13, 2021 - Volume 806
The Week's News in Access Technologyhttps://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Top Tech Tidbits. The World's #1 Access Technology Publication. Become A Future Sponsor By Joining Our Waiting List Today!
This issue made possible by sponsorship support from: Dean Martineau @ TopTechTidbits.com, John Panarese @ MacForTheBlind.com, A. T. Guys @ ATGuys.com, Barry Scheur @ GuideLightsAndGadgets.us, American Printing House @ APH.org, LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store @ Adaptations.org, Be My Eyes @ BeMyEyes.com, Dolphin Computer Access @ YourDolphin.com, HumanWare @ HumanWare.com, APH ConnectCenter @ APHConnectCenter.org, Freedom Scientific @ FreedomScientific.com and Commtech USA @ CommtechUSA.net.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) How to Answer Calls With Your Voice in iOS 14.5: (12.0% of all clicks.)https://lifehacker.com/use-siris-ios-14-5-update-to-answer-calls-with-your-voi-1846774139
B.) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: Using the Search in Microsoft Office: (5.1% of all clicks.)
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/30.html
C.) 10 Free Online Classes from Harvard to Learn Something New: (4.6% of all clicks.)
https://mashable.com/article/free-harvard-classes-online/
D.) New Research Shows Robotic Guide Dog Helps Visually Impaired People Even in Confined Spaces: (4.5% of all clicks.)
https://www.sciencetimes.com/articles/30909/20210428/robotic-guide-dog-robotics-visually-impaired.htm
E.) A Review of the Brailliant BI 40X: (3.9% of all clicks.)
https://www.helenkeller.org/hknc/review-brailliant-bi-40x
2) What is an RTT call? How The Text Accessibility Feature Lets You Send Real-Time Text Messages
RTT, or real-time text, sends text messages immediately as you type them, without requiring you to hit send. For RTT to work, you need a wireless handset like an iPhone or Android phone using IP-based technology on networks that support RTT. For device users who are deaf, deaf-blind, or have speech-related disabilities, RTT can eliminate the need to purchase specialized devices:https://www.businessinsider.com/what-is-rtt-call
3) Brailliant BI 20X Braille Display Review
Last updated May 6th 2021 courtesy of Vital Tech:https://www.vitaltech.org.uk/theme/brailliant-bi-20x-braille-display/
4) Bose Debuts $850 SoundControl Hearing Aids
While they can't be used for streaming music or taking calls, Bose says it's developed the first FDA-cleared, direct-to-consumer hearing aids for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss:https://www.cnet.com/news/bose-debuts-850-soundcontrol-hearing-aids/#ftag=CADf328eec
5) Overlay Fact Sheet
Overlays are a broad term for technologies aimed at improving the accessibility of a website by applying third-party source code (typically JavaScript) to make improvements to the front-end code of the website. This document lays out the case against them, and includes lots of quotes from skilled users and accessibility experts:https://overlayfactsheet.com/
6) Ability Summit 2021
Here you will find all of the content from the Microsoft Ability Summit 2021, 21 videos:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLtSVUgxIo6Kpv--OFXzwdgMz4Kw-cJFLW
7) Echo-Related Podcast #1: The Echo Show
Check out The Echo Show, with 28 episodes so far at:https://theechoshow.pinecast.co/
8) Echo-Related Podcast #2: The Dot to Dot Podcast
A daily 5 minute Echo demo from Alexa, currently at episode #1565:http://usa2day.podbean.com/
9) Accessible Astronomy: A More Inclusive Experience Thanks to Visualization Scientist Kimberly Arcand and the Talk Description to Me Team, Christine Malec and JJ Hunt
The latest from the Blind Abilities podcast:https://blindabilities.com/?p=6695
10) The Perfect Text Editor Doesn't Exist on the Mac
This AppleVis forum has been updated with some new perspectives:https://www.applevis.com/forum/macos-mac-apps/perfect-text-editor-doesn-t-exist
11) WebAIM: Screen Reader User Survey #9
this year's edition of an important survey is open, the more responses, the better:https://webaim.org/projects/screenreadersurvey9/
12) Custom JAWS Scripts For Dixa
Doug Lee provides these scripts:https://dlee.org/dixa/
13) Google Announces New Assistant Features
In a recent blog post Google has announced new Google Assistant features to help families stay more organized:https://coolblindtech.com/google-announces-new-assistant-features/
14) Guide Dog on Wheels Detects Obstacles and Traffic Light Signals
The e-Guide Dog is equipped with laser scanners that detect when an obstacle is in the way. It can also be programmed with preset routes that will give its user directions:https://coolblindtech.com/guide-dog-on-wheels-detects-obstacles-and-traffic-light-signals/
15) Windows 10 Keyboard Shortcuts Cheatsheet
Courtesy of MakeTechEasier.com:https://www.maketecheasier.com/cheatsheet/windows-10-keyboard-shortcuts-cheatsheet/
16) Employment Immersion May Virtual Workshop By Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired
May's workshop runs 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM PDT weekdays from May 3rd through 28th 2021. There IS a job market! Job seekers who are blind and have low vision are in demand to work remotely. Let LightHouse support you on your pathway to employment in these challenging times. Our award-winning Employment Immersion program is now available virtually. Now is the time to join us via the Zoom conferencing platform. The program begins the first Monday of every month and runs each weekday. This comprehensive month-long training is specifically designed for people who are blind and have low vision. We are committed to providing group and individual guidance from the fundamentals of job search, to the complexities of disclosure of one's disability with pride and confidence, to instruction on job search techniques, to honing interview skills. Most importantly, this program focuses on the participant's individual job goals. To learn more about this exciting opportunity, please contact the team through email:eIteam@lighthouse-sf.org 📧️
17) Petition to Open Source ETI-Eloquence
There is currently a petition for Microsoft to open source Eloquence. This could open up a number of possibilities. Such as getting eloquence into Narrator, fixing bugs in Eloquence so that all characters are spoken such as math symbols, making it legal to use the add-on for NVDA, and much more. Microsoft has absorbed the company Nuance, which is the current owner of Eloquence, and people are optimistic that Microsoft would be open to the idea of open sourcing Eloquence because Microsoft has started embracing accessibility and open source software over the past few years. Please sign or pass this along to anyone that you know who might be interested:https://www.change.org/p/microsoft-open-source-eti-eloquence
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Open Source Audio Editor Audacity is Now Part of MuseGroup
Existing Audacity users may be interested in the project's future. Acquisitions may lead to undesirable changes or even the discontinuation of a program, but this appears not to be the case for Audacity. They have revealed plans in the announcement video to contribute to the project and hire senior developers and designers. More contributors could improve development. Light non-destructive UX changes may be part of upcoming releases:https://www.ghacks.net/2021/05/03/open-source-audio-editor-audacity-is-now-part-of-musegroupac/
2) Blind People, Advocates Slam Company Claiming to Make Websites ADA Compliant
Another update in this continuing saga:https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/innovation/blind-people-advocates-slam-company-claiming-make-websites-ada-compliant-n1266720
3) Nike Unveils Its First Hands-Free Sneaker: The GO FlyEase
In 2012, Matthew Walzer was 16 years old, and like many people his age, he was thinking a lot about college. However, unlike his peers, Walzer wasn't just considering majors and dorm setups — he was wondering whether he'd be able to find someone at school to tie his shoes. Walzer had been born with cerebral palsy, a disorder that affects some of his motor skills, and he lacks the hand flexibility needed to put on and tie laces. So, with college on the horizon, he decided to take his problem to the largest footwear company in the world:https://www.freethink.com/articles/hands-free-sneaker
4) Smartphone App Helps Blind People Stand in Socially Distanced Lines
This app is designed to help the blind or visually impaired find the end of the line and continuously report the distance and direction of the last person in line so the user can follow them easily. The app uses the RGB camera integrated into the smartphone and detects nearby pedestrians. It also leverages the integrated infrared depth sensor to estimate their position:https://www.slashgear.com/smartphone-app-helps-blind-people-stand-in-socially-distanced-lines-10672088/
5) Standard eBooks Builds Upon Project Gutenberg to Offer a Better Reading Experience
Project Gutenberg has always been a commendable literary initiative that ensured the classic titles of yore lived on in the digital age. While that is great, the eBooks lack consistent typography. Cover art leaves something to be disired, in addiiton to many typos, that can mar the reading experience considerably. It is here that the Standard eBooks come into the picture:https://goodereader.com/blog/e-book-news/standard-ebooks-builds-upon-project-gutenberg-to-offer-a-better-reading-experience
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther: Kayaking Blind
April 30th 2021 | People often look for a challenge to stimulate their creativity and expand their horizons. San Francisco's Lighthouse for the blind and Visually Impaired offers just such an incentive through their annual Holman Prize competition. Ms Lilly and I review three of the 2021 outdoor oriented Holman Prize semifinalists, and I speak with a 2017 Prize winner about his international blind kayaking adventure. I share some of my own blind kayaking tips, and reflect on taking blind kayaking to the extreme. So climb aboard for episode 24 of AMI Audio's original podcast, Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther:https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/episode-24-kayaking-blind/id1530444764?i=1000519487214
2) Blind Android Users 21 | All About Notifications and Muslim Pro
May 3rd 2021https://blindandroidusers.com
3) Mosen At Large 121
May 8th 2021 Blind pride, blind people at the airport, plenty of tech questions and opinions:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/009cca1b/blind-pride-blind-people-at-the-airport-plenty-of-tech-questions-and-opinions
4) That Real Blind Tech Show 31 | What's More Comforting Than A Fischler, Maybe Moby Dick?
May 9th 2021We start off with the ancient philosophers question of how stupid are sighted people when it comes to blindness? We then dive in to the sale of Yahoo Fantasy and what it means for the future of the accessibility for the app. Believe it or not but it seems like Uber drivers have found a new way to attempt to complicate the lives of blind guide dog handlers:
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-31-whats-more-comforting-than-a-fischler-maybe-moby-dick
5) Blind Tech Guys 84 | BTG And Live Accessible Talk Past, Present, And Future Technology And Innovation
May 11th 2021 | On this episode of the pod, the team sits down with Carrie from LiveAccessible to discuss technology and innovation from the past, present, and future, both from low vision and blindness perspectives, and Nimer demonstrates YouTube Music:https://www.blindtechguys.com/84
6) Eyes on Success 2120 | APH ConnectCenter
May 12th 2021The American Printing House (APH) ConnectCenter manages resources aimed at helping people of all ages and includes VisionAware, FamilyConnect, CareerConnect, ConnectCalendar, and an Information and Referral Line. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with director Olaya Landa-Vialard and digital content specialist Kathryn Botsford about these services:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202120.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) All Virtual All Free 2021 National Coding Symposium
May 11th 2021 to May 14th 2021 | Designed for you to attend all, or just what you can, this Zoom event targets middle and high-school students, parents, teachers and adaptive technology instructors. Co-hosted by American Printing House (APH) and California School for the Blind (CSB), professionals in the field of coding will share their experiences and answer student questions. Hear from inspirational speakers and panelists in presentations and question and answer sessions to learn more about careers related to coding. Teachers of students with visual impairments and assistive technology specialists can learn about ways to integrate accessible coding activities into their lesson plans. Parents can learn how to support their children with interests in this field. Emphasis is on accessibility of the coding process. Recordings will be posted to the APH YouTube Channel afterwards. All student participants who register and participate in the 2021 National Coding Symposium will be eligible to receive a free one-year subscription to JAWS, ZoomText or Fusion from Vispero. In addition, all students are invited to submit a short essay (500 word or less) and complete a simple form to be eligible to receive a credit of up to $3000 towards the purchase of technology from Vispero, Humanware, or APH and a $200 Amazon gift card. Details and registration information here:https://aphconnectcenter.org/coding/
2) Meaningful Image Descriptions for Social Studies Content Webinar by American Printing House
May 17th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Between maps, graphs, political cartoons, and diagrams, images are unavoidable in the social sciences. Offering equitable access to this subject matter remains challenging and can lead to delays in the delivery of braille. When judiciously applied, image descriptions provide students immediate and enhanced access to these difficult materials in the classroom. Attend this webinar and learn how to create meaningful and effective image descriptions in braille for a variety of visual content used in social studies. Register here:https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_uLVmwkV0QTOI41pbOH6oeQ
3) Video Accessibility with 3Play Media | Part 2 of 3 | Live Captioning
May 18th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | In this webinar you will learn the basics of live captioning and how 3Play Media can help make your videos fully accessible, searchable, and more engaging for all viewers:https://go.3playmedia.com/wbnr-05-18-2021-live
4) Zoom Webinar by World-Renowned Apple Trainer and Consultant John Panarese and Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP) Donna Jodhan
May 22nd 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Share your thoughts and suggestions as to how Apple can further enhance and improve its products to meet the requirements of blind and vision impaired persons. Share your dreams and visions as to how we can foster more collaboration with Apple. To register, please send an email to the following address no later than 12:00 Noon EST on Friday May 21st 2021:john@macfortheblind.com 📧️
5) Zoom Webinar | Florida Vision Technology | Florida Assistive Technology Presentation
June 7th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Join Florida Vision Technology for a virtual presentation of the latest and greatest in Assistive Technology including the brand new Envision Glasses and other wearables Check out our most updated catalog of products: https://floridareading.com/downloads. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar. Register in advance for this webinar:https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_cDgpkD0BS4SivMVTMhsGug
6) National Federation of the Blind 2021 National Convention
July 6th 2021 through July 10th 2021 | Register for free to attend the largest gathering of blind people and take advantage of the opportunity to network with thousands of blind role models, connect with leaders in the field of blindness, attend presentations on a variety of empowering topics, and learn about the latest in technology and innovation. Learn more and register here:https://www.nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention
➜ Surveys
1) Microsoft Screen Reader Experience Survey
Close Date: May 14th 2021 | Microsoft is inviting users of screen readers to participate in a survey to collect information regarding which screen reader they use, how they use it, and their confidence level. Your responses will not be associated with any of your personal information. The survey should take around 15 minutes:https://microsoft.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bej7uHpmb9mN5Lo
2) Vispero Video Magnifier Survey
Close Date: May 31st 2021 | Do you use our low vision hardware products? If so, we need your help! We want to make changes that ensure a hassle-free experience for you when using our products. Please take our three-minute survey to tell us what is most important to you. In appreciation of your feedback, you will be entered to win one of five Amazon gift cards. The grand prize is a $100 gift card, and the other four gift cards are $25 each. Take the Vispero Video Magnifier Survey today. The survey ends May 31. You must be 18 years of age or older to win the gift card. Vispero employees are not eligible to win.https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VCKDB9P
3) WebAIM Screen Reader User Survey #9
Close Date: June 15th 2021 | The following survey is a follow-up to previous WebAIM Screen Reader User Surveys. This survey is primarily intended to collect new information and track updates/trends from previous surveys. By completing this survey you will help inform development choices for those creating accessible web content and web standards. All screen reader users, even those who use screen readers only for evaluation and testing, are invited to participate:https://webaim.org/projects/screenreadersurvey9/
4) PolyPad Braille Display Needs Assessment
Close Date: July 1st 2021 | Participants must be 18 years or older to participate and able to read braille. We hope that our research will lead to a high quality multi-lined braille display that can be used with a smartphone. Researchers will investigate the quality and usefulness of the product and use the information to improve the development of the device:https://calstatela.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2fPVm4hlLE5hQhg
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Eye Scan Reading Machine
Listing Date: 4/29/2021 | Price: $900.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: Scan text and hear it read back to you. Offers storage capability of up to 20 pages in memory. Includes: Reader with Eye-Scan software installed, Flatbed Scanner, Custom Oversized Tactile Eye-Scan Keypad and internal speakers. | Contact: lauraofte52@gmail.com 📧️ or (510) 851-3716 📱️ |2) FOR SALE: One HIMS QBraille XL 40 Smart Display
Listing Date: 4/22/2021 | Price: $2,500.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: A 40 cell display that has all the control keys found on PC/Mac. You can read/type in braille with the Perkins but not have to learn specific screen reader commands. USB/bluetooth, and it can take standalone notes, has a calendar etc. Reasonable offers OK. | Contact: therealvictormarques@gmail.com 📧️ or (269) 358-8853 📱️ |3) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Accessible Pharmacy, the new, home delivery pharmacy with a blind founder, is bringing its full range of support and services to Be My Eyes. Users of the Be My Eyes app can now call Accessible Pharmacy directly to get support with medication, medical devices, and even home delivery COVID testing. With a fully trained and discreet pharmacy staff on call from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Pacific, Accessible Pharmacy is the new way for blind and low vision consumers to get an easy, frictionless pharmacy experience. Call today — and you'll never have to take an Uber to the drugstore again.
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Revolution Cane Tip: Standard Roller Tip: $14.50 | Locator Dots: Small Pack of 6 (Clear or Orange): $2.00 | NFB Metal Cane Tip: $3.00 | TMAP - On Demand Tactile Street | Map (set of two maps): $25.00 | Ambutech Aluminum Folding Cane: $35.00 | NFB Chris Park Telescoping Cane: $45.00 | BoldWriter 20 Pen (Individual or 6-pack): $2.00 | Bump Dots: Mixed (50 count): $7.00 | Braille Apple Catalina VoiceOver Guide OSX 10.15 (3 volumes) - Latest Manual: $52.00 | SpeedDots iPhone Tactile Screen Protector, Phone Layout: $12.00 | NFB Chris Park 7-Piece Folding Cane: $50.00 | Visit https://adaptations.org/ to learn more today!
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The BRIC: Structures® Access Kit combines ordinary building bricks with Snap Circuits® to create 26 projects, such as circuits and real-world structures, that run on electricity. Visit https://www.aph.org/product/bric-structures-access-kit/ to learn more.
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Non-Contact Infrared Talking Thermometer, and talking BP meter; Accurate, easy to use, clear voice; one cuff fits all, $50 each. New! Our tough cowhide leather on-the-go case with 5 pockets to hold your essentials, 5x7x3; wear as neck pouch or crossbody $40. New! Protect your 20 cell Braille display investment with a hollow padded book size leather folio case. It's truly unique, both for its style and function, $55. Conventions are just around the corner, with lots of specials on leather bags, electronics, and dog products. Call Barry: (617) 969-7500 📱️ or Kae: (781) 286-1696 📱️.
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
If you're like me, you probably have more things to plug into your computer than available ports. That's why we've now added the Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub. Plug it into your laptop and you will get 3 USB ports, SD and Micro SD card slots, a USBC charging port, and an HDMI video port. It's available now for just $29.95:
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: John Panarese
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
High profile Apple Trainer and Consultant John Panarese is teaming up with Apple Certified Support Professional Donna Jodhan to offer you a very rare and unique opportunity! Yes! An opportunity for you to say what is on your mind! Coming on May 22nd 2021! Your chance to provide feedback to Apple about their iOS devices and Mac Computers! To register please send an email to john@macfortheblind.com 📧️. First come first serve! To learn more about John and his incredible work visit him at:
https://macfortheblind.com/
Director, https://www.MacForTheBlind.com
Authorized Apple Business Affiliate
Apple Certified Support Professional
Apple Certified Trainer
Assistive Technology Consultant
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://www.macfortheblind.com/ 🌐
Donate Course Time: https://donorbox.org/macfortheblind ❤
Email: john@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: Dean Martineau
➜ 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 if interested at:
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: Commtech USA
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
https://commtechusa.net/store
Sponsor Since: April 22nd 2021
Website: https://commtechusa.net/ 🌐
Phone: (833) 345-8324 📱️
About: Commtech USA, a division of Commtech LLC is a Phoenix based national assistive technology company, with locations in Bakersfield CA. We deliver unmatched information technology and assistive technology consultations, training and support. Founded in 2005 as a government vendor fulfilling a vast range of technology needs of federal and state government clients, Commtech USA has expanded to meet the needs of businesses as well as individuals, with office locations across the nation. No issue is too large or too small for our staff, Commtech USA is the on call technology staff you call when you have tried the rest but need the best!
Book an appointment with Commtech.
Meet the Commtech USA Staff in this YouTube video.
Download The App (iOS):
Commtech USA for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Commtech USA for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Our world-class refreshable Braille displays deliver efficient Braille input and outstanding output for your PC or mobile device. The robust Bluetooth® connectivity provides seamless use with Windows®, Mac®, iPhones®, iPads®, and AndroidTM smartphones and tablets. Ergonomic navigation features allow quick, natural hand movements for greater productivity. When used with JAWS® screen reading software, they support our popular Braille Study Mode, an interactive tool for teaching and learning Braille. Learn more today:
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
VisionAware Resources Including the Information and Referral Line APH ConnectCenter has resources to help blind and low vision people thrive. In addition to the Reader's Digest Getting Started with Vision Loss Guide You can also call the Information and Referral Line with your questions about resources and living with blindness and low vision.
https://visionaware.org/thrive
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The wait is over! A redefined family of Brailliant refreshable Braille displays has arrived! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series will help you stay connected, download books from many participating online libraries and share information easily with your peers. You will enjoy the intuitive, seamless user experience of KeySoft Lite, the HumanWare flagship accessibility suite designed to make you more productive. Including the Brailliant BI 40X and the Brailliant BI 20X, this is the Brailliant idea you need!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/070120211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Dolphin creates customized kiosk solutions for every type of service kiosk and every level of vision loss--and that's a win for your service or brand! If you're a business owner or someone who's struggling to access a service via a kiosk, spread the word! Check out this introductory audio/video demonstration highlighting the benefits of Dolphin SuperNova Kiosks!
https://youtu.be/ZoLjah3Wb74
Sponsor Since: January 28th 2021
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Phone (USA & Canada): +1 (866) 797-5921 📱️
Phone (UK, Europe & Asia): +44 01905 754577 📱️
Phone (Nordic & Baltic Contries): +46 0515 82175 📱️
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of GuideConnect
GuideConnect Trial
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, May 6, 2021 - Volume 805 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, May 6, 2021 - Volume 805
The Week's News in Access Technologyhttps://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
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Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Top Tech Tidbits. The World's #1 Access Technology Publication. Become A Future Sponsor By Joining Our Waiting List Today!
This issue made possible by sponsorship support from: Dean Martineau @ TopTechTidbits.com, John Panarese @ MacForTheBlind.com, A. T. Guys @ ATGuys.com, Barry Scheur @ GuideLightsAndGadgets.us, American Printing House @ APH.org, LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store @ Adaptations.org, Be My Eyes @ BeMyEyes.com, Dolphin Computer Access @ YourDolphin.com, HumanWare @ HumanWare.com, APH ConnectCenter @ APHConnectCenter.org, Freedom Scientific @ FreedomScientific.com and Commtech USA @ CommtechUSA.net.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Zoom Makes Changes Across All Platforms: (10.4% of all clicks.)https://www.maketecheasier.com/zoom-makes-significant-changes-one-year-into-pandemic/
B.) 9 Devices and Technologies That Will Soon Be Obsolete: (10.2% of all clicks.)
https://www.idropnews.com/news/9-devices-and-tech-that-will-soon-be-obsolete/151060/12/
C.) Top 8 Apps That Are Helping the Blind and Visually Impaired To Navigate Better: (6.9% of all clicks.)
https://www.makeuseof.com/apps-for-blind-and-visually-impaired/
D.) Apple Releases iOS 14.5 and iPadOS 14.5 Bringing Accessibility Fixes, Support for AirTag, Privacy Enhancements, and More: (6.1% of all clicks.)
https://www.applevis.com/blog/apple-releases-ios-145-and-ipados-145-bringing-accessibility-fixes-support-airtag-privacy
E.) 6 of the Best Alternatives to Audible: (5.3% of all clicks.)
https://www.maketecheasier.com/best-audible-alternatives/
2) JAWS Power Tip: Creating a Voice Profile
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/31.html
3) A Review of the Brailliant BI 40X
Full text review as of April 23rd 2021. Courtesy of Scott Davert:https://www.helenkeller.org/hknc/review-brailliant-bi-40x
4) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: Using the Search in Microsoft Office
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/30.html
5) A Design Day Project with Vision: Students Create Improved Screen Reader for the Visually Impaired
What's next for the screen reader? Could it be a marriage to AI? An annual rite of passage, Design Day is an opportunity for engineering students to prove that they can translate theoretical knowledge learned in classrooms and laboratories into creative, practical solutions to real-world problems. As part of this year's event on Tuesday, May 4th 2021, students from around the Johns Hopkins Whiting School of Engineering will present their work to sponsors and mentors from industry, faculty members, clinicians, fellow students, and other guests through virtual live and recorded poster sessions and demonstrations. One computer science project that attendees will learn about is an artificially intelligent screen reader that reads webpage content out loud to users. But unlike most screen readers currently available, "A Set of Eyes" doesn't work mechanically to just read aloud loud whatever is hardcoded onto a webpage. Instead, it uses computer vision and a flexible user interface to create a more accessible—and natural—experience for users:https://www.cs.jhu.edu/2021/04/29/a-design-day-project-with-vision-students-create-improved-screen-reader-for-the-visually-impaired/
6) ZoomText Power Tip: Creating a Voice Profile
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/29.html
7) Touching The News by Lighthouse For The Blind And Visually Impaired
Sign up to receive tactile graphics files to print at home and surveys to vote on the next week's tactile graphic. TTN graphics are designed to be printed on ViewPlus Columbia or Delta, or similar: APH PixBlaster, IRIE BrailleTrac / BrailleSheet) and capsule paper (or Swell, PIAF, Zychem). The braille font and raised lines are specific to each embosser or tactile printer. Results may vary if printed on a different embosser:https://lighthouse-sf.org/ttn/
8) AppleVis Unlimited: What's New and Noteworthy for April 2021
A recap of AppleVis important events during April:https://www.applevis.com/blog/applevis-unlimited-whats-new-and-noteworthy-april-2021
9) Resources for Accessible Crosswords
This is the landing page of resources and instructions for the "Accessible Crossword Puzzles" session that occurred on Clubhouse on April 29th 2021:https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vS79E4ZEn3bo8PPCuB1-C6Ded1cHG-frklh48RyLUydbu7JJfYFALEZeL1TwZ5OCiWFXaOCPv-ZsYEW/pub
10) Parallel #48: The Trouble with Accessibility Overlays
This episode of the Parallel Podcast covers a hot topic in web accessibility:https://www.relay.fm/parallel/48
11) How to Answer Calls With Your Voice in iOS 14.5
Courtesy of Lifehacker:https://lifehacker.com/use-siris-ios-14-5-update-to-answer-calls-with-your-voi-1846774139
12) 10 Free Online Classes from Harvard to Learn Something New
More classes are available, these are the ones the Mashable author highlighted:https://mashable.com/article/free-harvard-classes-online/
13) Recent Additions to JAWS Tips and Tricks Page
Brian Hartgen continues to add to this page. Some tips require Leasey, a package well worth using with JAWS, but many do not. Additions include Closing Applications Quickly, Adjusting the Volume of Applications, and Storing Internet Favourites:http://www.hartgen.org/tips
14) Global Accessibility Awareness Day May 20th 2021
This annual event keeps gaining content every year. Here is the main page:https://globalaccessibilityawarenessday.org/
15) NV Access | In-Process April 30th 2021
Learn about NVDA training material, symbol pronunciation, and more:https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-30th-april-2021/
16) Brailliant BI 40X Version 1.1.1
This update includes localizations and hotkeys:https://support.humanware.com/en-usa/support/brailliant_bi_x_series
17) Build Your Professional Circle and Link Your Life to Success! Accessible LinkedIn
This Access Tech Watch-360 podcast on LinkedIn kicks off a three-part series on gaining employment and using social media:https://accesstechwatch360.podbean.com/e/build-your-professional-circle-and-link-your-life-to-success-accessible-linkedin/
18) When Screen Readers Are Not Enough. Two Interesting Technologies People Without Sight Can Use to Read The Stock Market
Screen readers are a great assistive technology that are often used to accomplish tasks using the computer. These programs can process the text on the screen and read it out loud. Screen readers however are ineffective for consuming information in a graph. It may work for simple ones, but for more complex data, it's not enough. It doesn't work well in identifying the categories of data and trends. Two interesting solutions can help visually impaired users navigate the digital world better. Not only for analysing financial charts, but in other use cases as well:https://medium.com/technology-hits/two-interesting-technologies-people-without-sight-can-use-to-read-the-stock-market-208cd5a37d62
19) Amazon Alexa Now Supports RealSam Digital Hub for Blind People
Blind and visually impaired people across the UK can now access the RealSam Smart Speaker via their Amazon Alexa device:https://www.accessandmobilityprofessional.com/amazon-alexa-now-supports-realsam-digital-hub-for-blind-people/
20) New Research Shows Robotic Guide Dog Helps Visually Impaired People Even in Confined Spaces
A robotic guide dog on a leash? You bet. Here's why:https://www.sciencetimes.com/articles/30909/20210428/robotic-guide-dog-robotics-visually-impaired.htm
21) Hadley Keyboarding Series Workshops
Three workshops available including "Keyboard Shortcuts," "Finding Keys Faster," and "Making Your Keyboard Easier To See". Learn shortcuts that eliminate the use of a mouse, ways to label the keys, and how to find your favorite keys with more ease in this series of free Workshops:https://hadley.edu/workshops/keyboarding-series
22) Google Fixes Two Annoying Quirks in Its Voice Assistant
If you've interacted with a voice assistant, there's a good chance you've changed the specifics of your command mid-sentence. "Hey Google, set a timer for 20—no, 10 minutes." Until now, Assistant would've likely named your 10-minute timer "20, no." With the latest update, it understands you made a mistake, and that you just want 10 minutes on the clock:https://www.wired.com/story/google-assistant-redesigned-natural-language-understanding-models/
23) Voice Dream Reader Version 4.13.0 Released, Bringing New Features and UI Changes
A new version of Voice Dream Reader has been released, bringing new fonts, Bookshare changes, improved cloud services and more:https://www.blindbargains.com/bargains.php?m=22097
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) The Helen Keller National Center Announces the Techology, Research, and Innovation Center
The Technology, Research and Innovation Center (TRIC) is a state of the art technology center for those who are DeafBlind located on the campus of The Helen Keller National Center in Sands Point, New York. While the Center is still under construction, they have announced the areas of TRIC that will work to serve the DeafBlind community:https://www.helenkeller.org/hknc/tric
2) Sports and Exercise Tips for People Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired From The Lighthouse Guild
https://www.lighthouseguild.org/newsroom/sports-and-exercise-tips-for-people-who-are-blind-or-visually-impaired/3) Internet Radio: Listen to Music for Free From Thousands of Stations
Internet-Radio has 21,514 live streaming internet radio stations from around the world, with 196 genres. Genres include Anime, Bollywood, Greek, Hindi, Tejano Dub, Kpop, Polka and more mainstream genres such as Classic Rock, Blues, Jazz, Country, Swing, Big Band, and music from the 50s through the 90s:https://www.techsupportalert.com/content/internet-radio-listen-music-free-thousands-stations.htm
4) Degree Launches Accessible Deodorant To Serve People With Disabilities
Degree Deodorant has realized that people who are visually impaired, and people with upper limb mobile disabilities are also people who need to use deodorant. This week Degree Deodorant decided to intentionally serve these two groups of customers by introducing Degree Inclusive, a deodorant with a product design exclusively for people with visual impairment and upper limb mobile disabilities:https://www.forbes.com/sites/soniathompson/2021/04/30/degree-launches-accessible-deodorant-to-serve-people-with-disabilities/?sh=505644bf84de
5) Rosie Lowers Accessibility Barriers to Online Grocery Ordering
E-commerce provider Rosie has met specific criteria to ensure people with disabilities can use its online platform. Rosie said it is one of the first grocery e-commerce providers to meet Level AA of the World Wide Web Consortium's Web Content Accessibility Guidelines. The e-commerce provider also said it scored 100/100 in the Accessibility Mode and 98/100 in default mode for Lighthouse, a tool for improving web page quality:https://www.grocerydive.com/news/rosie-lowers-accessibility-barriers-to-online-grocery-ordering/599373/
6) Freedom Scientific Announces Module 9 of JAWS Training for Teachers and AT Instructors
The ninth module of JAWS training for teachers and Assistive Technology (AT) instructors is now available:https://blog.freedomscientific.com/module-9-of-jaws-training-for-teachers-and-at-instructors/
7) Guide Dogs Make All The Difference for the Visually Impaired
Occupaws is an organization headquartered in Madison. They are one of 15 internationally accredited guide dog associations currently operating in the United States. What sets Occupaws apart from other guide dog organizations is they provide the dog to visually impaired people completely free of charge. There is an application and interview process if you'd like to receive an Occupaws guide dog:https://www.nbc15.com/2021/04/28/guide-dogs-make-all-the-difference-for-the-visually-impaired/
8) Doubling Down on Accessibility: Microsoft's Next Steps to Expand Accessibility in Technology, the Workforce and Workplace
https://blogs.microsoft.com/blog/2021/04/28/doubling-down-on-accessibility-microsofts-next-steps-to-expand-accessibility-in-technology-the-workforce-and-workplace/9) Intel and AI Developer Create Backpack That Helps Navigate Persons with Visual Impairment
While the backpack is still not commercially available, development continues:https://globalaccessibilitynews.com/2021/04/22/intel-and-ai-developer-create-backpack-that-helps-navigate-persons-with-visual-impairment/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Blind Tech Guys 83 | Walking with NVDA
April 28th 2021 | On this episode of the pod, the team sits down with Michael Curran and Quentin Christensen from NVAccess to learn more about them, and discuss the screen reader landscape, and Nimer demonstrates Google Calendar.https://www.blindtechguys.com/83
2) That Real Blind Tech Show 30 | Apple Updates and A Conversation with Academy Award Winner J.K. Simmons
April 30th 2021Brian starts the podcast off flying solo. Stupid people with day jobs. He discusses the new features in iOS 14.5, the new Siri voices which he is not a fan of, the new big privacy update, and gives you a That Real Blind Tech Show demo of some of the new things you can do with Siri and different podcast players:
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-29-apple-recap-its-the-best-jerry-the-best
3) Blind Android Users 20 | All About Notifications and Muslim Pro
May 3rd 2021https://blindandroidusers.com
4) Mosen At Large 120
May 4th 2021 Twitter Spaces from the perspective of a blind person using the VoiceOver screen reader:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/b2c9e475/twitter-spaces-from-the-perspective-of-a-blind-person-using-the-voiceover-screen-reader
5) Say My Meme | Star Wars Memes
May 5th 2021 | May The Fourth Be With You! This week, Caroline and Will are joined by a special guest host — Caroline's husband, Justin — to unpack the wonderful and incredibly nerdy world of Star Wars memes. I've been waiting a long time for this, my little green friend!https://www.bemyeyes.com/podcasts/star-wars-memes
6) Eyes on Success 2119 | Accessible Cloud Technologies
May 5th 2021Pneuma Solutions offers a suite of accessible cloud services geared to the needs of the visually impaired. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with co-founders Mike Calvo (CEO) and Matt Campbell (CTO) about Sero as well as how Scribe for Meetings and Scribe for Education transform documents to make them accessible in a variety of formats for web events and personal use:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202119.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Microsoft 2021 Ability Summit
May 5th & 6th 2021 | The Microsoft Ability Summit is a two-day, free digital event experience that brings together people with disabilities, allies, and accessibility professionals to Imagine, Build, Include, and Empower the future of disability inclusion and accessibility. We encourage all to join and spread the word. Registration will open in March. In the meantime, learn more and check out the Ability Summit 2021 announcement video here:https://sway.office.com/Dbr2Uz14PIn31Dq8
2) Zoom Meeting | From The Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library | Podcast Discussion -- 99% Invisible -- The Universal Page
May 6th 2021 | 2PM PT, 3PM MT, 4PM CT, 5PM ET, 9PM GMT | Join The Heiskell Tech Team and guest patron Andrew Leland for a screening and discussion of 99 Percent Invisible: The Universal Page. In this podcast episode, Andrew explores his changing relationship to print and delves into the various historical and contemporary ways that blind and visually impaired people attain literacy. Join us at 5:00 PM Eastern to hear the podcast as a group, or listen to the podcast on your own and join at 6:00 PM Eastern for the discussion. Podcast link: https://99percentinvisible.org/episode/the-universal-page/. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. Register in advance for this meeting:https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUrfumvrjMrHdZE7-kk9tvqrOlpVsa6b7f1
3) TPGi Webinar | How Any Organization Can Start Small but Deliver Big with Accessibility
May 6th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Creating and maintaining an accessible website can be a daunting proposition for many businesses for several reasons: • They aren't aware of the magnitude of how much remediation may be needed for their own website and aren't sure how to start assessing this. • They have limited resources to devote to accessibility-related activities. • They are not interested or unable to pay for expensive accessibility monitoring and testing software that caters to enterprise organizations. Register at:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-may-6-how-any-organization-can-start-small-but-deliver-big-with-accessibility/
4) Technology User Group (TUG) Presentation Cooking Blind
May 8th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Many visually impaired food aficionados will share their tips and tricks for food preparation as well as gadgets, recipe resources, and instructional sites to make that perfect dish. All are welcome to come and share their experiences with cooking as well as the lessons they have learned. The presentation will be virtual and may be joined by calling (319) 527-4994 📱️. You do not have to RSVP for this event. The presentation will last about 90 minutes. We look forward to meeting with you and hope that you will join us for other exciting events we have planned for 2021.5) All Virtual All Free 2021 National Coding Symposium
May 11th 2021 to May 14th 2021 | Designed for you to attend all, or just what you can, this Zoom event targets middle and high-school students, parents, teachers and adaptive technology instructors. Co-hosted by American Printing House (APH) and California School for the Blind (CSB), professionals in the field of coding will share their experiences and answer student questions. Hear from inspirational speakers and panelists in presentations and question and answer sessions to learn more about careers related to coding. Teachers of students with visual impairments and assistive technology specialists can learn about ways to integrate accessible coding activities into their lesson plans. Parents can learn how to support their children with interests in this field. Emphasis is on accessibility of the coding process. Recordings will be posted to the APH YouTube Channel afterwards. All student participants who register and participate in the 2021 National Coding Symposium will be eligible to receive a free one-year subscription to JAWS, ZoomText or Fusion from Vispero. In addition, all students are invited to submit a short essay (500 word or less) and complete a simple form to be eligible to receive a credit of up to $3000 towards the purchase of technology from Vispero, Humanware, or APH and a $200 Amazon gift card. Details and registration information here:https://aphconnectcenter.org/coding/
6) Video Accessibility with 3Play Media | Part 2 of 3 | Audio Description
May 11th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | This webinar will cover the basics of how to add audio description to online video, legal requirements for audio description, video player compatibility, examples and demos, how to create audio description, and benefits of audio description outside of accessibility:https://go.3playmedia.com/wbnr-05-11-2021-ad
7) Video Accessibility with 3Play Media | Part 2 of 3 | Live Captioning
May 18th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | In this webinar you will learn the basics of live captioning and how 3Play Media can help make your videos fully accessible, searchable, and more engaging for all viewers:https://go.3playmedia.com/wbnr-05-18-2021-live
8) Zoom Webinar by World-Renowned Apple Trainer and Consultant John Panarese and Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP) Donna Jodhan
May 22nd 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Share your thoughts and suggestions as to how Apple can further enhance and improve its products to meet the requirements of blind and vision impaired persons. Share your dreams and visions as to how we can foster more collaboration with Apple. To register, please send an email to the following address no later than 12:00 Noon EST on Friday May 21st 2021:john@macfortheblind.com 📧️
9) Zoom Webinar | Florida Vision Technology | Florida Assistive Technology Presentation
June 7th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Join Florida Vision Technology for a virtual presentation of the latest and greatest in Assistive Technology including the brand new Envision Glasses and other wearables Check out our most updated catalog of products: https://floridareading.com/downloads. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar. Register in advance for this webinar:https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_cDgpkD0BS4SivMVTMhsGug
10) National Federation of the Blind 2021 National Convention
July 6th 2021 through July 10th 2021 | Register for free to attend the largest gathering of blind people and take advantage of the opportunity to network with thousands of blind role models, connect with leaders in the field of blindness, attend presentations on a variety of empowering topics, and learn about the latest in technology and innovation. Learn more and register here:https://www.nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention
➜ Surveys
1) Microsoft Screen Reader Experience Survey
Close Date: May 14th 2021 | Microsoft is inviting users of screen readers to participate in a survey to collect information regarding which screen reader they use, how they use it, and their confidence level. Your responses will not be associated with any of your personal information. The survey should take around 15 minutes:https://microsoft.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bej7uHpmb9mN5Lo
2) Vispero Video Magnifier Survey
Close Date: May 31st 2021 | Do you use our low vision hardware products? If so, we need your help! We want to make changes that ensure a hassle-free experience for you when using our products. Please take our three-minute survey to tell us what is most important to you. In appreciation of your feedback, you will be entered to win one of five Amazon gift cards. The grand prize is a $100 gift card, and the other four gift cards are $25 each. Take the Vispero Video Magnifier Survey today. The survey ends May 31. You must be 18 years of age or older to win the gift card. Vispero employees are not eligible to win.https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VCKDB9P
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Eye Scan Reading Machine
Listing Date: 4/29/2021 | Price: $900.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: Scan text and hear it read back to you. Offers storage capability of up to 20 pages in memory. Includes: Reader with Eye-Scan software installed, Flatbed Scanner, Custom Oversized Tactile Eye-Scan Keypad and internal speakers. | Contact: lauraofte52@gmail.com 📧️ or (510) 851-3716 📱️ |2) FOR SALE: One HIMS QBraille XL 40 Smart Display
Listing Date: 4/22/2021 | Price: $2,500.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: A 40 cell display that has all the control keys found on PC/Mac. You can read/type in braille with the Perkins but not have to learn specific screen reader commands. USB/bluetooth, and it can take standalone notes, has a calendar etc. Reasonable offers OK. | Contact: therealvictormarques@gmail.com 📧️ or (269) 358-8853 📱️ |3) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Revolution Cane Tip: Standard Roller Tip: $14.50 | Locator Dots: Small Pack of 6 (Clear or Orange): $2.00 | NFB Metal Cane Tip: $3.00 | TMAP - On Demand Tactile Street | Map (set of two maps): $25.00 | Ambutech Aluminum Folding Cane: $35.00 | NFB Chris Park Telescoping Cane: $45.00 | BoldWriter 20 Pen (Individual or 6-pack): $2.00 | Bump Dots: Mixed (50 count): $7.00 | Braille Apple Catalina VoiceOver Guide OSX 10.15 (3 volumes) - Latest Manual: $52.00 | SpeedDots iPhone Tactile Screen Protector, Phone Layout: $12.00 | NFB Chris Park 7-Piece Folding Cane: $50.00 | Visit https://adaptations.org/ to learn more today!
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Perfect for all ages, Audiojack's sound-based movies promote fun and creativity in educational, medical, and therapeutic settings. Choose from a variety of categories and activities to suit your needs. Learn more at:
https://www.aph.org/product/audiojack/
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
1) A Telescopic cane you can trust! Will stay open AND NOT COLLAPSE, extends from 11 to 59 inches. Corrugated light aluminum tubing; 2 nylon roller tips: $50. 2) Our first rugged leather "gadbag". For phone, stream, wallet, and more, 5x7x4. Will even work hands-free with AIRA, $35. 3) Our accurate non-contact talking infrared thermometer, $50, also cuff and wrist talking BP models; demos at: https://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/. 4) Our new loaded Evo 10 Daisy Player with Internet and FM Radio, Podcatcher, audio editor, Ivona voices, and lots more; $230 with Mystic Access tutorial. Tutorial. Call us at: (617) 969-7500 📱️;. Email us at: bscheur@scheur.com 📧️
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
If you're like me, you probably have more things to plug into your computer than available ports. That's why we've now added the Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub. Plug it into your laptop and you will get 3 USB ports, SD and Micro SD card slots, a USBC charging port, and an HDMI video port. It's available now for just $29.95:
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: John Panarese
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
High profile Apple Trainer and Consultant John Panarese is teaming up with Apple Certified Support Professional Donna Jodhan to offer you a very rare and unique opportunity! Yes! An opportunity for you to say what is on your mind! Coming on May 22nd 2021! Your chance to provide feedback to Apple about their iOS devices and Mac Computers! To register please send an email to john@macfortheblind.com 📧️. First come first serve! To learn more about John and his incredible work visit him at:
https://macfortheblind.com/
Director, https://www.MacForTheBlind.com
Authorized Apple Business Affiliate
Apple Certified Support Professional
Apple Certified Trainer
Assistive Technology Consultant
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://www.macfortheblind.com/ 🌐
Donate Course Time: https://donorbox.org/macfortheblind ❤
Email: john@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: Dean Martineau
➜ 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 if interested at:
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: Commtech USA
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
https://commtechusa.net/store
Sponsor Since: April 22nd 2021
Website: https://commtechusa.net/ 🌐
Phone: (833) 345-8324 📱️
About: Commtech USA, a division of Commtech LLC is a Phoenix based national assistive technology company, with locations in Bakersfield CA. We deliver unmatched information technology and assistive technology consultations, training and support. Founded in 2005 as a government vendor fulfilling a vast range of technology needs of federal and state government clients, Commtech USA has expanded to meet the needs of businesses as well as individuals, with office locations across the nation. No issue is too large or too small for our staff, Commtech USA is the on call technology staff you call when you have tried the rest but need the best!
Book an appointment with Commtech.
Meet the Commtech USA Staff in this YouTube video.
Download The App (iOS):
Commtech USA for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Commtech USA for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Our world-class refreshable Braille displays deliver efficient Braille input and outstanding output for your PC or mobile device. The robust Bluetooth® connectivity provides seamless use with Windows®, Mac®, iPhones®, iPads®, and AndroidTM smartphones and tablets. Ergonomic navigation features allow quick, natural hand movements for greater productivity. When used with JAWS® screen reading software, they support our popular Braille Study Mode, an interactive tool for teaching and learning Braille. Learn more today:
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The Reader's Digest Getting Started Guide to Vision Loss APH ConnectCenter has resources to help blind and low vision people thrive. Share the Reader's Digest Getting Started with Vision Loss Guide with people who need to know about living with vision loss.
https://visionaware.org/thrive
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The wait is over! A redefined family of Brailliant refreshable Braille displays has arrived! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series will help you stay connected, download books from many participating online libraries and share information easily with your peers. You will enjoy the intuitive, seamless user experience of KeySoft Lite, the HumanWare flagship accessibility suite designed to make you more productive. Including the Brailliant BI 40X and the Brailliant BI 20X, this is the Brailliant idea you need!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/070120211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The SuperNova family of tools meet the needs of anyone with a visual impairment because you can get the version that's right for you-should your needs change, you won't need to change your tool. Plus, they include features you can't find anywhere else; true touchscreen functionality, interactive whiteboard compatibility, bold font and image sharpening, low computer resource requirements and remote access for Citrix and other desktop services! Try a FREE Download for 30 days!
https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/products/individuals/families/supernova
Sponsor Since: January 28th 2021
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Phone (USA & Canada): +1 (866) 797-5921 📱️
Phone (UK, Europe & Asia): +44 01905 754577 📱️
Phone (Nordic & Baltic Contries): +46 0515 82175 📱️
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of GuideConnect
GuideConnect Trial
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of SuperNova
SuperNova Trial
About: Dolphin Computer Access offers a wide array of solutions for students, people in the workforce, and at home who are blind, visually impaired or have dyslexia. Each product is purposefully designed to help users, with varying levels of technology experience, do everyday things EASILY on computers and tablets. Founded in 1986 and located in Worcester England, Dolphin has grown to become a global market leader worldwide.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Accessible Pharmacy, the new, home delivery pharmacy with a blind founder, is bringing its full range of support and services to Be My Eyes. Users of the Be My Eyes app can now call Accessible Pharmacy directly to get support with medication, medical devices, and even home delivery COVID testing. With a fully trained and discreet pharmacy staff on call from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Pacific, Accessible Pharmacy is the new way for blind and low vision consumers to get an easy, frictionless pharmacy experience. Call today — and you'll never have to take an Uber to the drugstore again.
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
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|
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, April 29, 2021 - Volume 804 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, April 29, 2021 - Volume 804
The Week's News in Access Technologyhttps://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Commtech USA: Unbiased and Rock-Solid Support, Training and Information
So you bought a new computer, Mac or Windows, or a new phone, iPhone or Android, and you just want to use the thing; haven't the time to search high and low for information? Everyone else is calling up their brand's support service of choice, so why shouldn't you get the same treatment with a laser focus on accessibility? That's what we offer here at Comtech USA, and then some! Or maybe you're the DIY-type looking for thorough and up to date instructions on how to do that thing you're struggling with. Why not give our growing catalog of Accessivision courses a go? Learn that thing on your own terms, but never fear if you should ever get stuck; our course experts are on-call should you ever need assistance! Speaking of experts, our Android experts have proudly established the latest official community hub for all things Android accessibility: Accessidroid! And to top it all off, there's an app for that! We're on iOS, Mac, and Android. What are you waiting for? Visit https://commtechusa.net/ today or give us a call at (833) 345-8324 📱️!
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Tools Used by Blind Scientists: (7.8% of all clicks.)http://monaminkara.com/blind-scientist-tools/
B.) 7 Reasons Why Seniors Need an Apple Watch: (7.6% of all clicks.)
https://seniordoodads.medium.com/7-reasons-why-seniors-need-an-apple-watch-bd0869c5eaca
C.) How to Turn Notes into Reminders on iOS and Mac: (5.7% of all clicks.)
https://www.idownloadblog.com/2019/12/18/turn-notes-into-reminders/
D.) Reader Feedback | Some Tidbits Links Provide A Bad Reading Experience: (5.1% of all clicks.)
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/25.html
E.) JAWS-Friendly HTML, CSS, and JavaScript Tutorials, References, and Articles: (4.7% of all clicks.)
https://www.htmldog.com/
2) May Symposium to Introduce Blind Students to Coding and Tech
We've been running this event within the Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events section of Top Tech Tidbits for several issues now and we will continue to do so until it passes. In this article from Tech Republic they explain why it is so important:https://www.techrepublic.com/article/may-symposium-to-introduce-blind-students-to-coding-and-tech/
3) ZoomText Power Tip: Listen While You Work
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/26.html
4) Using a Braille Display on iOS: An Introduction
From Applevis, courtesy of Scott Davert. Last updated on April 27th 2021:https://www.applevis.com/guides/using-braille-display-ios-introduction
5) JAWS Power Tip: OCR Directly to Microsoft Word in JAWS and Fusion 2021
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/27.html
6) Zoom Makes Changes Across All Platforms
The necessity to social distance during the pandemic made Zoom a must-have service for many. It's been used in this past year to keep up with friends and family, to check in with work, and to attend remote classes. Being used differently than it had in the past has necessitated changes. Last week Zoom made some significant changes to the service:https://www.maketecheasier.com/zoom-makes-significant-changes-one-year-into-pandemic/
7) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: Using the Quick Access Bar in Microsoft Office
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/28.html
8) A Review of Using Twitter on the Web
Courtesy of Blind Bargains:https://blindbargains.com/bargains.php?m=21976
9) How Spatial Audio Can Help People Who Are Blind
For consumers and developers:https://www.highfidelity.com/blog/how-spatial-audio-can-help-people-who-are-blind
10) Apple Releases iOS 14.5 and iPadOS 14.5 Bringing Accessibility Fixes, Support for AirTag, Privacy Enhancements, and More
Some interesting features in this upgrade; AppleVis tells us about them:https://www.applevis.com/blog/apple-releases-ios-145-and-ipados-145-bringing-accessibility-fixes-support-airtag-privacy
11) Why You Should Restart Your Phone Every Day
At least, according to Android Central!https://www.androidcentral.com/why-you-should-restart-your-phone-every-day
12) 9 Devices and Technologies That Will Soon Be Obsolete
According to IDrop News:https://www.idropnews.com/news/9-devices-and-tech-that-will-soon-be-obsolete/151060/12/
13) Apple Accessibility Features - Vision
This is Apple's collection of accessibility videos for all vision-related iOS features:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIl2EzNYri0dbILXEAAYdfzM4H-ixRgmh
14) Here's How the Internet Archive Digitizes 78 RPM Records
Courtesy of The Verge:https://www.theverge.com/2021/4/26/22404361/internet-archive-digitize-records-great-78-project
15) Luna RSS Version 3.7
This could be a useful podcatcher and RSS reader for Windows:https://nathantech.net/products/software/lunarss.php
16) Mosen At Large is Now More Inclusive With Transcripts, Thanks to a Grant From InternetNZ
This podcast can cover a lot of ground each week, and now you can read the transcripts!https://mosen.org/internetnzgrant/
17) Apple AirTags vs. Tile: Which Bluetooth Tracker to Buy (And What About Samsung SmartTag?)
With the release of Apple AirTags, several articles have appeared offering comparisons with similar devices. Here's one from CNeT:https://www.cnet.com/news/apple-airtags-vs-tile-which-bluetooth-tracker-to-buy-and-what-about-samsung-smarttag/
18) April 2021 AccessWorld
This latest issue of the AFB magazine includes "Supersense from Mediate: A First Look at a New Object and Text Recognition Mobile App," "Video Streaming Services, Part 3: The Accessibility of the Disney+ Streaming Service," "Streaming Audio Services, Part 1: Unwrapping YouTube Music" and more:https://www.afb.org/aw/22/4
19) Best YouTube Keyboard Shortcuts to Save Time While Watching YouTube Videos
While watching YouTube videos you can press the Spacebar to play and pause the video. But there are even more keyboard shortcuts YouTube supports. Some YouTube keyboard shortcuts let you do things that you otherwise wouldn't be able to do at all on YouTube:https://mashtips.com/best-youtube-keyboard-shortcuts/
20) Mute Your Microphone with a Hotkey Using MicKey
A useful free tool to keep your mic muted unless you are using it:https://www.ghacks.net/2021/04/27/mute-your-microphone-with-a-hotkey-using-mickey/
21) Google Home: 7 Commands You Need to Use Every Day
'Hey, Google' might be an integral part of your day, but you might not know everything you can do with Google Home Assistant. We've got seven essential tips you'll use on the regular:https://www.cnet.com/home/smart-home/google-home-7-commands-you-need-to-use-every-day/
22) 6 of the Best Alternatives to Audible
When it comes to audiobook apps, Audible is often looked at as the pinnacle of the industry. Backed by a huge library and the Amazon name, Audible is arguably the best audiobook site on the Internet. However, there are many other places to find audiobooks online, and that's especially true for anyone looking for an alternative to Amazon. Whatever your reasons, here are some of the best Audible alternatives you can get started with today:https://www.maketecheasier.com/best-audible-alternatives/
23) Google Guacamole Will Let You Use Voice Assistant Without Saying 'Hey, Google'
The tech giant is reportedly testing a new Google Assistant feature for alarms, timers and calls:https://www.cnet.com/news/google-guacamole-will-reportedly-let-you-use-voice-assistant-without-saying-hey-google/#ftag=CAD590a51e
24) Top 8 Apps That Are Helping the Blind and Visually Impaired To Navigate Better
As technology becomes smarter, the ways in which it can make everyday life easier grow with it. Assisting the blind and visually impaired is of special interest to developers, especially in the mobile industry:https://www.makeuseof.com/apps-for-blind-and-visually-impaired/
25) How To Make Sure Your Fundraising Videos are Accessible: Approaches and Tips from the Experts
Accessibility should be front of mind with everything we do, and with video key considerations include ensuring support for those with sight and hearing loss such as subtitles and audio description. There is more to consider and include than that however, so here are some approaches and tips from the experts:https://fundraising.co.uk/2021/04/21/how-to-make-sure-your-fundraising-videos-are-accessible-approaches-and-tips-from-the-experts/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Blind Gamer Helping Make Games Accessible to Everyone
https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/blind-gamer-helping-make-games-accessible-to-everyone-2337075/2) Central Association for the Blind or Visually impaired (CABVI) Launches eCommerce Site To Help Provide Opportunities To Those With Visual Impairments
https://www.informnny.com/abc50-now/local-organization-launches-e-commerce-site-to-help-provide-opportunities-to-those-with-visual-impairments/➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) That Real Blind Tech Show 29 | Apple Recap: It's the Best Jerry, the Best
The entire gang is back together again in our socially distanced bunkers of choice to discuss all the news coming out of Apple's Spring Time Event:April 22nd 2021
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-29-apple-recap-its-the-best-jerry-the-best
2) Mosen At Large 117
April 24th 2021 Transcripts come to Mosen At Large, Sonos Roam Setup and Reviewed, and more on ableist language:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/fc57f30d/transcripts-come-to-mosen-at-large-sonos-roam-set-up-and-reviewed-and-more-on-ableist-language
3) Blind Android Users 20 | Your Personal Assistant and Much More
April 25th 2021https://blindandroidusers.com
4) Say My Meme | Lucy Edwards
April 26th 2021 | Blind beauty expert and journalist Lucy Edwards recently sent in a request to Say My Meme, for beauty and makeup memes, and when we get a request we deliver! Lucy joins us as our first guest host to talk all memes skincare, makeup and more!https://www.bemyeyes.com/podcasts/lucy-edwards
5) Eyes on Success 2118 | From Technologist to Accessibility Evangelist
April 28th 2021https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202118.htm
6) Blind Tech Guys 83 | Let's Get Social
April 28th 2021 | On this episode of the pod, the team sits down with Michael Curran and Quentin Christensen from NVAccess to learn more about them, and discuss the screen reader landscape, and Nimer demonstrates Google Calendar:https://www.blindtechguys.com/83
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) ACB Community Call: Vispero Presentation Discussing The Picture Smart Feature
April 29th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Join Jeff Bazer to discuss what Picture Smart. Sponsored by Vispero. | One Tap Mobile: +13126266799,,88275409010# | Phone: (312) 626-6799 📱️ | Webinar ID: 882 7540 9010 | Passcode: 974968 | Join the webinar:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88275409010?pwd=dlZ1VFozQWlEcHZtSXBBZ25EQzRZdz09
2) Video Accessibility with 3Play Media | Part 1 of 3 | Closed Captioning
May 4th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | In this webinar you will learn the basics of closed captioning and how 3Play Media can help make your videos fully accessible, searchable, and more engaging for all viewers:https://go.3playmedia.com/wbnr-05-04-2021-cc
3) Microsoft 2021 Ability Summit
May 5th & 6th 2021 | The Microsoft Ability Summit is a two-day, free digital event experience that brings together people with disabilities, allies, and accessibility professionals to Imagine, Build, Include, and Empower the future of disability inclusion and accessibility. We encourage all to join and spread the word. Registration will open in March. In the meantime, learn more and check out the Ability Summit 2021 announcement video here:https://sway.office.com/Dbr2Uz14PIn31Dq8
4) TPGi Webinar | How Any Organization Can Start Small but Deliver Big with Accessibility
May 6th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Creating and maintaining an accessible website can be a daunting proposition for many businesses for several reasons: • They aren't aware of the magnitude of how much remediation may be needed for their own website and aren't sure how to start assessing this. • They have limited resources to devote to accessibility-related activities. • They are not interested or unable to pay for expensive accessibility monitoring and testing software that caters to enterprise organizations. Register at:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-may-6-how-any-organization-can-start-small-but-deliver-big-with-accessibility/
5) Technology User Group (TUG) Presentation Cooking Blind
May 8th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Many visually impaired food aficionados will share their tips and tricks for food preparation as well as gadgets, recipe resources, and instructional sites to make that perfect dish. All are welcome to come and share their experiences with cooking as well as the lessons they have learned. The presentation will be virtual and may be joined by calling (319) 527-4994 📱️. You do not have to RSVP for this event. The presentation will last about 90 minutes. We look forward to meeting with you and hope that you will join us for other exciting events we have planned for 2021.6) All Virtual All Free 2021 National Coding Symposium
May 11th 2021 to May 14th 2021 | Designed for you to attend all, or just what you can, this Zoom event targets middle and high-school students, parents, teachers and adaptive technology instructors. Co-hosted by American Printing House (APH) and California School for the Blind (CSB), professionals in the field of coding will share their experiences and answer student questions. Hear from inspirational speakers and panelists in presentations and question and answer sessions to learn more about careers related to coding. Teachers of students with visual impairments and assistive technology specialists can learn about ways to integrate accessible coding activities into their lesson plans. Parents can learn how to support their children with interests in this field. Emphasis is on accessibility of the coding process. Recordings will be posted to the APH YouTube Channel afterwards. All student participants who register and participate in the 2021 National Coding Symposium will be eligible to receive a free one-year subscription to JAWS, ZoomText or Fusion from Vispero. In addition, all students are invited to submit a short essay (500 word or less) and complete a simple form to be eligible to receive a credit of up to $3000 towards the purchase of technology from Vispero, Humanware, or APH and a $200 Amazon gift card. Details and registration information here:https://aphconnectcenter.org/coding/
7) Video Accessibility with 3Play Media | Part 2 of 3 | Audio Description
May 11th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | This webinar will cover the basics of how to add audio description to online video, legal requirements for audio description, video player compatibility, examples and demos, how to create audio description, and benefits of audio description outside of accessibility:https://go.3playmedia.com/wbnr-05-11-2021-ad
8) Video Accessibility with 3Play Media | Part 2 of 3 | Live Captioning
May 18th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | In this webinar you will learn the basics of live captioning and how 3Play Media can help make your videos fully accessible, searchable, and more engaging for all viewers:https://go.3playmedia.com/wbnr-05-18-2021-live
9) Zoom Webinar by World-Renowned Apple Trainer and Consultant John Panarese and Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP) Donna Jodhan
May 22nd 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Share your thoughts and suggestions as to how Apple can further enhance and improve its products to meet the requirements of blind and vision impaired persons. Share your dreams and visions as to how we can foster more collaboration with Apple. To register, please send an email to the following address no later than 12:00 Noon EST on Friday May 21st 2021:john@macfortheblind.com 📧️
10) National Federation of the Blind 2021 National Convention
July 6th 2021 through July 10th 2021 | Register for free to attend the largest gathering of blind people and take advantage of the opportunity to network with thousands of blind role models, connect with leaders in the field of blindness, attend presentations on a variety of empowering topics, and learn about the latest in technology and innovation. Learn more and register here:https://www.nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention
➜ Surveys
1) Access Technology in the Workplace
Close Date: May 1st 2021 | Open Date: Now Open | Survey Information: a. The NRTC is recruiting people with blindness or low vision (age 21+) who are working or interested in working to be part of a 5-year study about access technology (AT) use, particularly in the workplace. Some questions we will seek answers to are: i. What AT do you most commonly use? ii. How do you decide whether to use a specific AT? iii. What are your AT challenges? iv. What AT do you need that isn't currently available? b. We want to know YOUR thoughts and experiences! Participation will involve completing multiple surveys to help us determine how AT use is changing over time. Fill out the online pre-screening survey to see if you qualify! 5. Survey Rewards Offered: a. if selected from this pre-screening survey, you'll receive a small gift card after completing each survey. Additionally, the NRTC will share study results with participants:https://msstatecoe.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8i98Qap5V441mdg?source=27
2) Microsoft Screen Reader Experience Survey
Close Date: May 14th 2021 | Microsoft is inviting users of screen readers to participate in a survey to collect information regarding which screen reader they use, how they use it, and their confidence level. Your responses will not be associated with any of your personal information. The survey should take around 15 minutes:https://microsoft.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bej7uHpmb9mN5Lo
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Eye Scan Reading Machine
Listing Date: 4/29/2021 | Price: $900.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: Scan text and hear it read back to you. Offers storage capability of up to 20 pages in memory. Includes: Reader with Eye-Scan software installed, Flatbed Scanner, Custom Oversized Tactile Eye-Scan Keypad and internal speakers. | Contact: lauraofte52@gmail.com 📧️ or (510) 851-3716 📱️ |2) FOR SALE: One HIMS QBraille XL 40 Smart Display
Listing Date: 4/22/2021 | Price: $2,500.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: A 40 cell display that has all the control keys found on PC/Mac. You can read/type in braille with the Perkins but not have to learn specific screen reader commands. USB/bluetooth, and it can take standalone notes, has a calendar etc. Reasonable offers OK. | Contact: therealvictormarques@gmail.com 📧️ or (269) 358-8853 📱️ |3) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Perfect for all ages, Audiojack's sound-based movies promote fun and creativity in educational, medical, and therapeutic settings. Choose from a variety of categories and activities to suit your needs. Learn more at:
https://www.aph.org/product/audiojack/
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
1) A Telescopic cane you can trust! Will stay open AND NOT COLLAPSE, extends from 11 to 59 inches. Corrugated light aluminum tubing; 2 nylon roller tips: $50. 2) Our first rugged leather "gadbag". For phone, stream, wallet, and more, 5x7x4. Will even work hands-free with AIRA, $35. 3) Our accurate non-contact talking infrared thermometer, $50, also cuff and wrist talking BP models; demos at: https://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/. 4) Our new loaded Evo 10 Daisy Player with Internet and FM Radio, Podcatcher, audio editor, Ivona voices, and lots more; $230 with Mystic Access tutorial. Tutorial. Call us at: (617) 969-7500 📱️;. Email us at: bscheur@scheur.com 📧️
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
If you're like me, you probably have more things to plug into your computer than available ports. That's why we've now added the Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub. Plug it into your laptop and you will get 3 USB ports, SD and Micro SD card slots, a USBC charging port, and an HDMI video port. It's available now for just $29.95:
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: John Panarese
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
On May 22nd 2021 John Panarese and Donna Jodhan will be teaming up to host a very special Zoom session! An opportunity for you to share your thoughts, and ask questions about iOS devices and Mac computers! Your comments and feedback will be sent to Apple so that they can hear what you are thinking and saying! In order to ensure maximum participation, the first 50 responses will be accepted. To register, please send an email to:
john@macfortheblind.com 📧️.
Director, https://www.MacForTheBlind.com
Authorized Apple Business Affiliate
Apple Certified Support Professional
Apple Certified Trainer
Assistive Technology Consultant
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://www.macfortheblind.com/ 🌐
Donate Course Time: https://donorbox.org/macfortheblind ❤
Email: john@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: Dean Martineau
➜ 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 if interested at:
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: Commtech USA
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
https://commtechusa.net/store
Sponsor Since: April 22nd 2021
Website: https://commtechusa.net/ 🌐
Phone: (833) 345-8324 📱️
About: Commtech USA, a division of Commtech LLC is a Phoenix based national assistive technology company, with locations in Bakersfield CA. We deliver unmatched information technology and assistive technology consultations, training and support. Founded in 2005 as a government vendor fulfilling a vast range of technology needs of federal and state government clients, Commtech USA has expanded to meet the needs of businesses as well as individuals, with office locations across the nation. No issue is too large or too small for our staff, Commtech USA is the on call technology staff you call when you have tried the rest but need the best!
Book an appointment with Commtech.
Meet the Commtech USA Staff in this YouTube video.
Download The App (iOS):
Commtech USA for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Commtech USA for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Our world-class refreshable Braille displays deliver efficient Braille input and outstanding output for your PC or mobile device. The robust Bluetooth® connectivity provides seamless use with Windows®, Mac®, iPhones®, iPads®, and AndroidTM smartphones and tablets. Ergonomic navigation features allow quick, natural hand movements for greater productivity. When used with JAWS® screen reading software, they support our popular Braille Study Mode, an interactive tool for teaching and learning Braille. Learn more today:
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
APH ConnectCenter and California School for the Blind (CSB) co-host FREE Virtual National Coding Symposium, May 11th - May 14th 2021. Students, parents, and teachers are invited to learn how the world of coding, programming, and related careers are available and accessible to students who are blind and visually impaired. Click here to learn more and register today!
https://www.aph.org/free-national-coding-symposium-for-students/
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The wait is over! A redefined family of Brailliant refreshable Braille displays has arrived! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series will help you stay connected, download books from many participating online libraries and share information easily with your peers. You will enjoy the intuitive, seamless user experience of KeySoft Lite, the HumanWare flagship accessibility suite designed to make you more productive. Including the Brailliant BI 40X and the Brailliant BI 20X, this is the Brailliant idea you need!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/070120211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The SuperNova family of tools meet the needs of anyone with a visual impairment because you can get the version that's right for you-should your needs change, you won't need to change your tool. Plus, they include features you can't find anywhere else; true touchscreen functionality, interactive whiteboard compatibility, bold font and image sharpening, low computer resource requirements and remote access for Citrix and other desktop services! Try a FREE Download for 30 days!
https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/products/individuals/families/supernova
Sponsor Since: January 28th 2021
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Phone (USA & Canada): +1 (866) 797-5921 📱️
Phone (UK, Europe & Asia): +44 01905 754577 📱️
Phone (Nordic & Baltic Contries): +46 0515 82175 📱️
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of GuideConnect
GuideConnect Trial
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of SuperNova
SuperNova Trial
About: Dolphin Computer Access offers a wide array of solutions for students, people in the workforce, and at home who are blind, visually impaired or have dyslexia. Each product is purposefully designed to help users, with varying levels of technology experience, do everyday things EASILY on computers and tablets. Founded in 1986 and located in Worcester England, Dolphin has grown to become a global market leader worldwide.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Accessible Pharmacy, the new, home delivery pharmacy with a blind founder, is bringing its full range of support and services to Be My Eyes. Users of the Be My Eyes app can now call Accessible Pharmacy directly to get support with medication, medical devices, and even home delivery COVID testing. With a fully trained and discreet pharmacy staff on call from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Pacific, Accessible Pharmacy is the new way for blind and low vision consumers to get an easy, frictionless pharmacy experience. Call today — and you'll never have to take an Uber to the drugstore again.
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Revolution Cane Tip: Standard Roller Tip: $14.50 | Locator Dots: Small Pack of 6 (Clear or Orange): $2.00 | NFB Metal Cane Tip: $3.00 | TMAP - On Demand Tactile Street | Map (set of two maps): $25.00 | Ambutech Aluminum Folding Cane: $35.00 | NFB Chris Park Telescoping Cane: $45.00 | BoldWriter 20 Pen (Individual or 6-pack): $2.00 | Bump Dots: Mixed (50 count): $7.00 | Braille Apple Catalina VoiceOver Guide OSX 10.15 (3 volumes) - Latest Manual: $52.00 | SpeedDots iPhone Tactile Screen Protector, Phone Layout: $12.00 | NFB Chris Park 7-Piece Folding Cane: $50.00 | Visit https://adaptations.org/ to learn more today!
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
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|
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, April 22, 2021 - Volume 803 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, April 22, 2021 - Volume 803
The Week's News in Access Technologyhttps://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Top Tech Tidbits. The World's #1 Access Technology Publication. Become A Future Sponsor By Joining Our Waiting List Today!
This issue made possible by sponsorship support from: Dean Martineau @ TopTechTidbits.com, John Panarese @ MacForTheBlind.com, A. T. Guys @ ATGuys.com, Barry Scheur @ GuideLightsAndGadgets.us, American Printing House @ APH.org, LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store @ Adaptations.org, Be My Eyes @ BeMyEyes.com, Dolphin Computer Access @ YourDolphin.com, HumanWare @ HumanWare.com, APH ConnectCenter @ APHConnectCenter.org, Freedom Scientific @ FreedomScientific.com and Commtech USA @ CommtechUSA.net.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: I Want the Save and Open Dialogs Back: (7.3% of all clicks.)https://www.toptechtidbits.com/21.html
B.) Robotic Guide Dogs Could Help Visually Impaired People Navigate The World. Here's How: (6.9% of all clicks.)
https://www.republicworld.com/technology-news/science/robotic-guide-dogs-could-help-visually-impaired-people-navigate-the-world-heres-how.html
C.) Some Thoughts on Smart Canes: (5.0% of all clicks.)
https://derekriemer.com/posts/2021/01/16/some-thoughts-on-smart-canes/
D.) JAWS Power Tip: Append Selected Text to Clipboard with JAWS: (4.4% of all clicks.)
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/22.html
E.) New Blind Accessibility Tips and Tutorials Website: (4.4% of all clicks.)
https://blindaccessibilitytips.com/
2) Top Tech Tidbits Welcomes Commtech USA
Please join us in welcoming aboard Commtech USA, who has generously agreed to support the distribution of Tidbits via sponsorship for the next three months. Commtech USA, a division of Commtech, LLC, is a Phoenix-based national assistive technology company with locations in Bakersfield, CA. They deliver unmatched information technology and assistive technology consultations, training and support. Founded in 2005 as a government vendor fulfilling a vast range of technology needs of federal and state government clients, Commtech USA has expanded to meet the needs of businesses as well as individuals, with office locations across the nation. No issue is too large or too small for their staff. Learn more today at:.https://commtechusa.net/
3) Applevis Summary of Apple's "Spring Loaded" Product Launch Event
New iPads, new iMacs, and a new Apple TV, but perhaps most exciting of all was the launch of Apple AirTags. AirTag is a small (about the size of a quarter, 32mm x 32mm x 6mm), circular tag with built-in Bluetooth and Ultra Wideband support designed to attach to easily-lost items like wallets, backpacks, and keys. AirTag has a built-in speaker that can play sounds to help locate it, while a removable cover provides access to the replaceable battery. It is IP67 water- and dust-resistant. AirTag features the same setup experience as AirPods — just bring AirTag close to iPhone and it will connect. You can assign AirTag to an item and name it with a default like "Keys" or "Jacket," or provide a custom name of your choosing. AirTag uses what Apple calls "Precision Finding" to give users the exact distance and direction to their AirTag, guiding them through a combination of sound, haptics, and visual feedback. Apple has confirmed that AirTag includes support for the accessibility features built into iOS. Precision Finding using VoiceOver, for example, can direct users who are blind or low-vision to AirTag with directions like "AirTag is 9 feet away on your left."https://www.applevis.com/blog/summary-apples-spring-loaded-product-launch-event
4) Reader Feedback | Some Tidbits Links Provide A Bad Reading Experience
In this reader feedback review our Publisher addresses one reader's concerns regarding some Tidbits links:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/25.html
5) How to Turn Notes into Reminders on iOS and Mac
These two apps work together:https://www.idownloadblog.com/2019/12/18/turn-notes-into-reminders/
6) NV Access | In-Process 16th April 2021
Information about speech dictionaries and finding YouTube comments:https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-16th-april-2021/
7) Tools Used by Blind Scientists
A blind researcher compiled this list:http://monaminkara.com/blind-scientist-tools/
8) 7 Reasons Why Seniors Need an Apple Watch
By Jennifer Disipio:https://seniordoodads.medium.com/7-reasons-why-seniors-need-an-apple-watch-bd0869c5eaca
9) JAWS-Friendly HTML, CSS, and JavaScript Tutorials, References, and Articles
A user reports that this material, from HTML Dog, is JAWS-friendly:https://www.htmldog.com/
10) Blind Tech Guys, BTG Clips
These are exerpts from the Blind Tech Guys podcast available on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCe2O4s_B34goOtP78FvxX4g
11) LibreOffice Writer Guide 7.1 Now Available
The book is a complete guide for users who want to explore the best resources of LibreOffice Writer, the word processor of the LibreOffice suite:https://blog.documentfoundation.org/blog/2021/04/12/writer-guide-7-1-is-just-out/
12) Recording | Windows Screen Reader Experience | An Overview | CCB Presentation from April 7th 2021
In this 43 minute podcast, Gerry Chevalier demonstrates the experience of using Windows from the keyboard with a screen reader and no mouse. The presentation is not intended to teach screen readers but rather provide an experience of what it is like to use a screen reader when you cannot see the screen or use the mouse. It is intended for low vision people who are struggling to use Windows with a mouse as their vision loss progresses and they might wonder what the screen reader experience is like. For his presentation Gerry uses the Narrator screen reader since it is part of Windows 10:https://gttprogram.blog/2021/04/07/windows-screen-reader-experience-an-overview-april-7-2021/
13) Recording | Apple Watch Workshop | Florida Outreach Center for the Blind Presentation from April 15th 2021
https://1drv.ms/v/s!AisYUv3BHXuF8XyiYtJkpBsnPSLF?e=gp1q8N14) Recording | Sight and Sound Technology Podcast | Demonstration of the New BrailleSense 6 from April 11th 2021
https://audioboom.com/posts/7841871-webinar-braillesense-6-brilliance15) JAWS Inspect Q1 2021 Feature Updates
Updates include: Start a Full Page Report with a Shortcut Key, Option to Open Reports in the Active Browser, Start the Speech Viewer from the Reports Menu, Speech Capture Options and more:https://www.tpgi.com/jaws-inspect-q1-2021-feature-updates/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Oscar-Nominated Short Film 'Feeling Through' Makes History for Deaf-Blind Community
Feeling Through tells the story of a chance encounter between a homeless teen and a deaf, blind man trying to get back home. The film is nominated for the Oscar for Best Live Action Short Film, and it's already made history as the first to cast a deaf, blind actor, Robert Tarango, in a lead role:https://news.yahoo.com/feeling-makes-history-deaf-blind-201300070.html
2) Many Libraries Offer Victor Reader Devices for People with Vision Disorders
Hundreds of libraries in Canada and the United States recognize that people with vision orders or are completely blind need a way to consume audiobooks and ebooks. There is a company called Humanware, that has been making these types of products for a number of years and their most popular ones are the Victor Reader Stratus12 and the brand new Victor Reader Stream:https://goodereader.com/blog/audiobooks/many-libraries-offer-victor-reader-devices-for-people-with-vision-disorders
3) Local Puppy Raiser Helps Provide Independence for the Visually Impaired
Alissa Phillips has been volunteering as a puppy raiser since 2016 for Guiding Eyes for the Blind, a Yorktown Heights-based nonprofit organization that connects dogs with visually impaired people to help them achieve greater independence and freedom:https://www.theexaminernews.com/local-puppy-raiser-helps-provide-independence-for-the-visually-impaired/
4) Meet the San Diego Athlete on the US Paratriathlon National Team
Amy Dixon shares how she trains as a visually impared athlete and which finish lines she hopes to cross next:https://www.sandiegomagazine.com/people/meet-the-san-diego-athlete-on-the-us-paratriathlon-national-team/article_8ecc135c-a13d-11eb-b3ae-4305028367d2.html
5) Government of Canada Announces Support for New Accessible Technology Projects
Innovative projects will make it easier for Canadians living with disabilities to participate in the digital economy:https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/government-of-canada-announces-support-for-new-accessible-technology-projects-861076395.html
6) Website Accessibility: What Apartment Operators Need to Know
Why property websites should be WCAG-compliant to ensure a barrier-free experience for online users:https://www.multihousingnews.com/post/website-accessibility-what-apartment-operators-need-to-know/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes (Recent and Upcoming)
1) Hadley Presents: A Conversation with the Experts | Vision Loss and Self Discovery
April 16th 2021 Join Hadley advisor Eddie Becerra as he shares about losing his sight from diabetic retinopathy, and how he gained a new perspective on life:https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/vision-loss-and-self-discovery
2) Blind Android Users 19 | All About Cameras and Chromecast
April 18th 2021https://blindandroidusers.com
3) Say My Meme | Weed Memes
April 19th 2021 | April is a big month for things that are green: The Earth, Weed.. not sure what else. And to stoners, memes are the lifeblood of good humor and chill times. That's why this week we're bringing you the best weed memes!https://www.bemyeyes.com/podcasts/classic-art-memes
4) That Real Blind Tech Show 28 | A Conversation with Comedian Stacey Prussman the Disabled Communities Choice For the Next Mayor of New York City
April 20th 2021https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-28-a-conversation-with-comedian-stacey-prussman-the-disabled-communities-choice-for-the-next-mayor-of-new-york-city
5) Be My Eyes Podcast | The First Deafblind Actor to Attend the Oscars
April 20th 2021 | When Robert Tarango was cast to star in Doug Roland's short film Feeling Through, he was a kitchen assistant at the Helen Keller National Center. On Sunday, he'll walk down the red carpet at the 93rd Academy Awards. Here's his story — and why it's so important for the future of inclusion in film and TV.:https://www.bemyeyes.com/podcasts/a-deafblind-actor
6) Mosen At Large 116
April 21st 2021 Review of the Zoom Podtrak P4 Digital Recorder from a Blindness Perspective:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/c4bcb500/tim-cumings-demonstrates-the-zoom-podtrak-p4-from-a-blindness-perspective
7) Eyes on Success 2117 | Designing a Profession
April 21st 2021 | "Who Wants to Hire a Blind Interior Designer?" was the subject of an introductory email we received from John Robert Wiltgen's publicist. So we decided to find out! Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with John about his very successful career, how he worked around his impaired vision, and about some of the other challenges he had to overcome.https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202117.htm
8) Blind Tech Guys 80 | Let's Get Social
April 21st 2021 | On this week's episode of the pod, Nimer continues our series on web apps by demonstrating how accessible Facebook and Twitter are on Android, iOS and Windows and in our Did You Know section, we continue our series on phone settings by exploring the Bluetooth settings on both Android and iOS:https://www.blindtechguys.com/82
9) Outdoors With Lawrence Gunther 23: Earth Day Critters that Glide and Flying Blind
April 22nd 2021 | April 22nd 2021 is Earth Day, so what better way to celebrate than to explore different ways to defy gravity. Ms Lilly schools us on critters that have figured out how to Glide. Our bucket list is Freedom Wings Canada where people with disabilities can go to learn to fly gliders. We explore the technology used by blind pilot Miles Hilton Barber to fly his microlight plane halfway around the world. And we close with some reflections on how earth stepped up for us big time over the past year during our enforced grounding. It's all on episode 23 of Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther.https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/episode-23-earth-day-critters-that-glide-and-flying-blind/id1530444764?i=1000517461841
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events (Upcoming)
1) Zoom Webinar | ACB Community Call | Vispero Presentation: JAWS Tips
April 22nd 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Join Liz Whitaker and Rachel Buchanan with your Pro JAWS Tips, and they will share theirs as well! Sponsored by Vispero at: https://www.freedomscientific.com/. | One tap mobile: +13126266799,,88275409010# | Phone: (312) 626-6799 📱️ | Webinar ID: 882 7540 9010 | Passcode: 974968 | Join the webinar:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88275409010?pwd=dlZ1VFozQWlEcHZtSXBBZ25EQzRZdz09
2) NOAT (Network of Assistive Technologists) Webinar | Part 3 of 3 CNIB Frontier Accessibility Vision Showcase
April 23rd 2021 | 10:30AM PT, 11:30AM MT, 12:30PM CT, 1:30PM ET, 5:30 PM GMT | Meet the key players and learn about available products and services for Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. join Andrea Voss from CNIB Frontier Accessibility as she leads a three part series showcasing CNIB Frontier Accessibility and their various programs, plus their partnerships with Eschenbach, Humanware, and Vispero:https://sites.google.com/noat.ca/events/2021/cnib-frontier-vision-showcase-apr-2021
3) Blind Cartographer Presentation at Stanford
April 23rd 2021 | 3PM PT, 4PM MT, 5PM CT, 6PM ET, 10PM GMT | Joshua Miele: Hands-On Mapping: The Story of a Blind Cartographer. Register:https://stanford.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_O5DJSDDFRmSSmm1ceEjBFA
4) Zoom Webinar | ACB Community Call | Exploring NVDA
April 24th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Each week we will go through the ins and outs of NVDA, a free and open source screen reader for Windows. We will also take a deep dive into Windows products such as the Office Suite and Windows ecosystem. | One tap mobile: +13126266799,,85748494298# | Phone: (312) 626-6799 📱️ | Meeting ID: 857 4849 4298 | Passcode: 272636 | Join the call:https://acb-org.zoom.us/j/85748494298?pwd=QXY4ZmtJU045bWxvZXBIb2JldTEvQT09
5) TPGi Webinar | Crystal Ball 2021: Predictions for the ADA Title III Digital Accessibility Landscape
April 27th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | In this webinar, Seyfarth's ADA Title III Team leaders will address how the pandemic has affected the ADA Title III landscape, how the Biden Administration will likely approach ADA Title III enforcement, and what we expect in 2021 and beyond for legal actions over digital accessibility:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-april-27-crystal-ball-2021-predictions-for-the-ada-title-iii-digital-accessibility-legal-landscape/
6) VLANJ Tech Talks | Converting Kindle Books
April 28th 2021 | 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 11PM GMT | For this month's VLANJ fourth Wednesday Tech Talks program, Dean Martineau will demonstrate using the Codex program to convert Kindle books for more flexible reading options. Register:https://bit.ly/VLANJ_Tech_Talks
7) Video Accessibility with 3Play Media | Part 1 of 3 | Closed Captioning
May 4th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | In this webinar you will learn the basics of closed captioning and how 3Play Media can help make your videos fully accessible, searchable, and more engaging for all viewers:https://go.3playmedia.com/wbnr-05-04-2021-cc
8) Microsoft 2021 Ability Summit
May 5th & 6th 2021 | The Microsoft Ability Summit is a two-day, free digital event experience that brings together people with disabilities, allies, and accessibility professionals to Imagine, Build, Include, and Empower the future of disability inclusion and accessibility. We encourage all to join and spread the word. Registration will open in March. In the meantime, learn more and check out the Ability Summit 2021 announcement video here:https://sway.office.com/Dbr2Uz14PIn31Dq8
9) TPGi Webinar | How Any Organization Can Start Small but Deliver Big with Accessibility
May 6th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Creating and maintaining an accessible website can be a daunting proposition for many businesses for several reasons: • They aren't aware of the magnitude of how much remediation may be needed for their own website and aren't sure how to start assessing this. • They have limited resources to devote to accessibility-related activities. • They are not interested or unable to pay for expensive accessibility monitoring and testing software that caters to enterprise organizations. Register at:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-may-6-how-any-organization-can-start-small-but-deliver-big-with-accessibility/
10) Free 2021 National Coding Symposium
May 11th 2021 to May 14th 2021 | This event targets middle and high-school students, parents, teachers and adaptive technology instructors. Co-sponsored by American Printing House and the California School for the Blind, emphasis is on accessibility of the coding process. Recordings will be posted to the APH YouTube Channel afterwards. Details and registration information here:https://aphconnectcenter.org/coding/
11) Video Accessibility with 3Play Media | Part 2 of 3 | Audio Description
May 11th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | This webinar will cover the basics of how to add audio description to online video, legal requirements for audio description, video player compatibility, examples and demos, how to create audio description, and benefits of audio description outside of accessibility:https://go.3playmedia.com/wbnr-05-11-2021-ad
12) Video Accessibility with 3Play Media | Part 2 of 3 | Live Captioning
May 18th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | In this webinar you will learn the basics of live captioning and how 3Play Media can help make your videos fully accessible, searchable, and more engaging for all viewers:https://go.3playmedia.com/wbnr-05-18-2021-live
13) Zoom Webinar by World-Renowned Apple Trainer and Consultant John Panarese and Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP) Donna Jodhan
May 22nd 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Share your thoughts and suggestions as to how Apple can further enhance and improve its products to meet the requirements of blind and vision impaired persons. Share your dreams and visions as to how we can foster more collaboration with Apple. To register, please send an email to the following address no later than 12:00 Noon EST on Friday May 21st 2021:john@macfortheblind.com 📧️
14) National Federation of the Blind 2021 National Convention
July 6th 2021 through July 10th 2021 | Register for free to attend the largest gathering of blind people and take advantage of the opportunity to network with thousands of blind role models, connect with leaders in the field of blindness, attend presentations on a variety of empowering topics, and learn about the latest in technology and innovation. Learn more and register here:https://www.nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention
➜ Surveys
1) Access Technology in the Workplace
Close Date: May 1st 2021 | Open Date: Now Open | Survey Information: a. The NRTC is recruiting people with blindness or low vision (age 21+) who are working or interested in working to be part of a 5-year study about access technology (AT) use, particularly in the workplace. Some questions we will seek answers to are: i. What AT do you most commonly use? ii. How do you decide whether to use a specific AT? iii. What are your AT challenges? iv. What AT do you need that isn't currently available? b. We want to know YOUR thoughts and experiences! Participation will involve completing multiple surveys to help us determine how AT use is changing over time. Fill out the online pre-screening survey to see if you qualify! 5. Survey Rewards Offered: a. if selected from this pre-screening survey, you'll receive a small gift card after completing each survey. Additionally, the NRTC will share study results with participants:https://msstatecoe.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8i98Qap5V441mdg?source=27
2) Microsoft Screen Reader Experience Survey
Close Date: May 14th 2021 | Microsoft is inviting users of screen readers to participate in a survey to collect information regarding which screen reader they use, how they use it, and their confidence level. Your responses will not be associated with any of your personal information. The survey should take around 15 minutes:https://microsoft.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bej7uHpmb9mN5Lo
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One HIMS QBraille XL 40 Smart Display
Listing Date: 4/22/2021 | Price: $2,500.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: A 40 cell display that has all the control keys found on PC/Mac. You can read/type in braille with the Perkins but not have to learn specific screen reader commands. USB/bluetooth, and it can take standalone notes, has a calendar etc. Reasonable offers OK. | Contact: therealvictormarques@gmail.com 📧️ or (269) 358-8853 📱️ |2) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
1) A Telescopic cane you can trust! Will stay open AND NOT COLLAPSE, extends from 11 to 59 inches. Corrugated light aluminum tubing; 2 nylon roller tips: $50. 2) Our first rugged leather "gadbag". For phone, stream, wallet, and more, 5x7x4. Will even work hands-free with AIRA, $35. 3) Our accurate non-contact talking infrared thermometer, $50, also cuff and wrist talking BP models; demos at: https://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/. 4) Our new loaded Evo 10 Daisy Player with Internet and FM Radio, Podcatcher, audio editor, Ivona voices, and lots more; $230 with Mystic Access tutorial. Tutorial. Call us at: (617) 969-7500 📱️;. Email us at: bscheur@scheur.com 📧️
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
If you're like me, you probably have more things to plug into your computer than available ports. That's why we've now added the Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub. Plug it into your laptop and you will get 3 USB ports, SD and Micro SD card slots, a USBC charging port, and an HDMI video port. It's available now for just $29.95:
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: John Panarese
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
John Panarese is pleased to announce an upcoming May special event in collaboration with Donna Jodhan! See how these 2 people can give you a chance to make your views known to Apple! A unique event that is attracting a lot of attention from technology experts and podcasters alike! To learn more about John and his high profile initiatives visit him at:
https://www.macfortheblind.com.
Director, https://www.MacForTheBlind.com
Authorized Apple Business Affiliate
Apple Certified Support Professional
Apple Certified Trainer
Assistive Technology Consultant
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://www.macfortheblind.com/ 🌐
Donate Course Time: https://donorbox.org/macfortheblind ❤
Email: john@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: Dean Martineau
➜ 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 if interested at:
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: Commtech USA
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Get up and running with Apple's Premier digital audio workstation today! Course Creator Daniel Contreras is excited to bring an extensive and in-depth course in using Logic Pro from an accessibility perspective. With over 5 years of experience with this software, Daniel Offers a 5-section course that covers the essential topics related to the use of Logic Pro. Whether you are a content creator, music producer, or a audio enthusiast, this course will get you up and running with Logic Pro in no time. Get started on your Logic journey today! Phone: (833) 345-8324 📱️ EXT 715 | Email: daniel.contreras@accessivision.us 📧️:
https://commtechusa.net/courses/pro-audio
Sponsor Since: April 22nd 2021
Website: https://commtechusa.net/ 🌐
Phone: (833) 345-8324 📱️
About: Commtech USA, a division of Commtech LLC is a Phoenix based national assistive technology company, with locations in Bakersfield CA. We deliver unmatched information technology and assistive technology consultations, training and support. Founded in 2005 as a government vendor fulfilling a vast range of technology needs of federal and state government clients, Commtech USA has expanded to meet the needs of businesses as well as individuals, with office locations across the nation. No issue is too large or too small for our staff, Commtech USA is the on call technology staff you call when you have tried the rest but need the best!
Book an appointment with Commtech.
Meet the Commtech USA Staff in this YouTube video.
Download The App (iOS):
Commtech USA for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Commtech USA for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Sponsor: Freedom Scientific
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Our world-class refreshable Braille displays deliver efficient Braille input and outstanding output for your PC or mobile device. The robust Bluetooth® connectivity provides seamless use with Windows®, Mac®, iPhones®, iPads®, and AndroidTM smartphones and tablets. Ergonomic navigation features allow quick, natural hand movements for greater productivity. When used with JAWS® screen reading software, they support our popular Braille Study Mode, an interactive tool for teaching and learning Braille. Learn more today:
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
APH ConnectCenter and California School for the Blind (CSB) co-host FREE Virtual National Coding Symposium, May 11th - May 14th 2021. Students, parents, and teachers are invited to learn how the world of coding, programming, and related careers are available and accessible to students who are blind and visually impaired. Click here to learn more and register today!
https://www.aph.org/free-national-coding-symposium-for-students/
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The wait is over! A redefined family of Brailliant refreshable Braille displays has arrived! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series will help you stay connected, download books from many participating online libraries and share information easily with your peers. You will enjoy the intuitive, seamless user experience of KeySoft Lite, the HumanWare flagship accessibility suite designed to make you more productive. Including the Brailliant BI 40X and the Brailliant BI 20X, this is the Brailliant idea you need!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/070120211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The SuperNova family of tools meet the needs of anyone with a visual impairment because you can get the version that's right for you-should your needs change, you won't need to change your tool. Plus, they include features you can't find anywhere else; true touchscreen functionality, interactive whiteboard compatibility, bold font and image sharpening, low computer resource requirements and remote access for Citrix and other desktop services! Try a FREE Download for 30 days!
https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/products/individuals/families/supernova
Sponsor Since: January 28th 2021
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Phone (USA & Canada): +1 (866) 797-5921 📱️
Phone (UK, Europe & Asia): +44 01905 754577 📱️
Phone (Nordic & Baltic Contries): +46 0515 82175 📱️
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of GuideConnect
GuideConnect Trial
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of SuperNova
SuperNova Trial
About: Dolphin Computer Access offers a wide array of solutions for students, people in the workforce, and at home who are blind, visually impaired or have dyslexia. Each product is purposefully designed to help users, with varying levels of technology experience, do everyday things EASILY on computers and tablets. Founded in 1986 and located in Worcester England, Dolphin has grown to become a global market leader worldwide.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Accessible Pharmacy, the new, home delivery pharmacy with a blind founder, is bringing its full range of support and services to Be My Eyes. Users of the Be My Eyes app can now call Accessible Pharmacy directly to get support with medication, medical devices, and even home delivery COVID testing. With a fully trained and discreet pharmacy staff on call from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Pacific, Accessible Pharmacy is the new way for blind and low vision consumers to get an easy, frictionless pharmacy experience. Call today — and you'll never have to take an Uber to the drugstore again.
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Revolution Cane Tip: Standard Roller Tip: $14.50 | Locator Dots: Small Pack of 6 (Clear or Orange): $2.00 | NFB Metal Cane Tip: $3.00 | TMAP - On Demand Tactile Street | Map (set of two maps): $25.00 | Ambutech Aluminum Folding Cane: $35.00 | NFB Chris Park Telescoping Cane: $45.00 | BoldWriter 20 Pen (Individual or 6-pack): $2.00 | Bump Dots: Mixed (50 count): $7.00 | Braille Apple Catalina VoiceOver Guide OSX 10.15 (3 volumes) - Latest Manual: $52.00 | SpeedDots iPhone Tactile Screen Protector, Phone Layout: $12.00 | NFB Chris Park 7-Piece Folding Cane: $50.00 | Visit https://adaptations.org/ to learn more today!
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Perfect for all ages, Audiojack's sound-based movies promote fun and creativity in educational, medical, and therapeutic settings. Choose from a variety of categories and activities to suit your needs. Learn more at:
https://www.aph.org/product/audiojack/
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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.
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|
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, April 15, 2021 - Volume 802 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, April 15, 2021 - Volume 802
The Week's News in Access Technologyhttps://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Top Tech Tidbits. The World's #1 Access Technology Publication. One Sponsorship Package Currently Available! Join Us Today!
This issue made possible by sponsorship support from: Dean Martineau @ TopTechTidbits.com, John Panarese @ MacForTheBlind.com, A. T. Guys @ ATGuys.com, Barry Scheur @ GuideLightsAndGadgets.us, American Printing House @ APH.org, LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store @ Adaptations.org, Be My Eyes @ BeMyEyes.com, Vorail @ Vorail.com, Dolphin Computer Access @ YourDolphin.com, HumanWare @ HumanWare.com, APH ConnectCenter @ APHConnectCenter.org, and Freedom Scientific @ FreedomScientific.com.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Siri Shortcuts iOS Power Users Will Love: (7.9% of all clicks.)https://www.applegazette.com/siri-2/siri-shortcuts-ios-power-users-will-love/
B.) The Best Gmail Settings You Might Not Have Used Yet: (7.9% of all clicks.)
https://www.wired.com/story/best-hidden-useful-gmail-settings/
C.) You Definitely Need These 11 Essential Apple Watch Apps: (5.8% of all clicks.)
https://www.wired.com/story/11-essential-apple-watch-apps/
D.) Windows 10 Spring 2021 Update: Every New Feature, When to Download and More: (5.3% of all clicks.)
https://www.cnet.com/how-to/windows-10-spring-2021-update-every-new-feature-when-to-download-and-more/
E.) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: Turning Off the Backstage Menu: (4.1% of all clicks.)
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/20.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Welcomes Freedom Scientific
From all of us here at Tidbits please join us in welcoming aboard Freedom Scientific who has generously agreed to support the distribution of Tidbits via sponsorship for the next year. Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. Learn more today at:https://www.freedomscientific.com/
3) Ask Alexa | How To Create Easy Voice Lists for Everything
The Alexa app is born with two lists by default. The first is a "Shopping" (sometimes also referred to as "Grocery") list and the second is a "To-do" list. The "Shopping" (AKA "Grocery") list is the list that items are added to any time you say, "Alexa, add bananas to my list." In other words, the default list named "Shopping" (AKA "Grocery") and "my list" are one and the same. But this doesn't mean that you can't create as many separately named lists as you like. Just say, "Alexa, create a new list named Walmart." And from that point forward you can then say, "Alexa, add shampoo to my Walmart list." All of your lists are stored inside the Alexa app and are available everywhere you can access Alexa. From within the Alexa app just select "More" and then select "Lists and Notes". And there you will find every list you ever created, along with every individual item you have ever added to each list. One final tip. The Alexa app will sometimes default your list to "Category" view if it recognizes the items contained within it. In order to change this "Category" view back to your standard chronological list view simply access the three dot menu (located in the upper right hand corner of the app) and select "Hide Categories". | Additional example commands are: "Alexa, what are my lists?" | "Alexa, what's on my Walmart list?" | "Alexa, take shampoo off my Walmart list." | "Alexa, delete Walmart list." | "Alexa, create a new list named CostCo." | "Alexa, add apples and oranges to my CostCo list."4) Podcast Transcript: Mosen At Large 105, The AccessiBe Controversy
Can AI make the web fully accessible in a few short years, or might it make matters worse? Read the full transcript here:https://mosen.org/malp0105transcript/
5) How to Keep Your Zoom Chats Private and Secure
Trolls. Prying bosses. Zoom's a great video chat platform, but a few simple steps also make it a safe one:https://www.wired.com/story/keep-zoom-chats-private-secure/
6) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: I Want the Save and Open Dialogs Back
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/21.html
7) Amazon Alexa Launches 'Call RNIB Helpline'
Amazon is launching the "Alexa, call RNIB Helpline" Alexa feature, which is one of the latest Alexa functions to follow from a collaboration with the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB):https://www.netimperative.com/2021/04/12/amazon-alexa-launches-call-rnib-helpline/
8) JAWS Power Tip: Append Selected Text to Clipboard with JAWS
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/22.html
9) Secret Alphabet Project "Wolverine" Aims To Give People Superhuman Hearing
X, a company focused on moonshot ideas that's owned and operated by the Google parent Alphabet, is now working on a project named "Wolverine", after the X-Men superhero with heightened senses, whose ultimate goal is to develop tech that lets people filter out a specific source of noise, perhaps granting abilities like being able to focus on just one speaker out of a noisy crowd:https://futurism.com/the-byte/secret-alphabet-wolverine-superhuman-hearing
10) ZoomText Power Tip: Improve Your Productivity with Multiple Monitors
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/23.html
11) Top Tech Tidbits BVI Technology Podcast Directory | 26 New Podcasts Available
Readers rejoice. Since its launch last week the Top Tech Tidbits Blind and Visually Impaired Technology Podcast Directory has approved 26 submissions, all of which are now available for your perusal. We have also added a new field to the DIrectory which indicates whether or not a podcast is BVI-specific. We have done this in order to allow a select number of non-BVI-specific resources to appear within the directory. In other words, podcasts that are specific to technology, but not necessarily specific to blindness or visual impairment, but only when these technologies exponentially empower BVI persons. Think topics like Amazon Alexa Skills and other human enhancement technology. As the Directory grows we sincerely hope you will enjoy discovering new podcasts specific to your individual interests:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html
12) Introducing the Allied Podcast | A Podcast On All Things Accessibility
Whether you're an expert in all things accessibility (a11y), new to the scene, or just here for fun, Allied will help you stay up-to-date on the latest news and trends in accessibility. Learn from the top web and video accessibility experts and discover how a more accessible and inclusive world can positively impact any organization. The podcast launches on Friday, April 16th 2021. Subscribe here:https://go.3playmedia.com/alliedpodcast-subscription
13) Leasey Version 6 Now Available
New in Version 6.0: Elegance for ElBraille, Track Packages, Disney+, Facebook Messenger, and more:http://www.hartgen.org/leaseydemo
14) Now On Be My Eyes: Verizon & Jobs for Humanity
Do you need accessibility support on your mobile device? Customers of Verizon can now connect with their phone provider through Be My Eyes - just access the Specialized Help menu and find Verizon in the Technical category. Give them a call on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM ET to get an expert from Verizon to help with accessibility features and information about their services. To make things even more exciting, Be My Eyes has announced their first Careers partner, Jobs for Humanity. With the launch of their new job board, blind.jobs, they already have more than 1,000 positions available around the world, where employers have committed to interviewing the top visually impaired candidates. They're holding open office hours on Specialized Help a few hours per week to help people get familiar with the service they provide. Learn more by visiting:https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/verizon-is-first-telecom-provider-to-join-be-my-eyes
15) Top Tech Tidbits Extends Sincerest Thanks To The Vorail Community
From all of us here at Tidbits we would like to extend our sincerest thanks to the Vorail Community for their generous support of Top Tech Tidbits over the last 3 months. This will be their last week with us as a sponsor so please join us in wishing them farewell. If you would like to show your support for Tidbits by securing this sponsorship package once it becomes available, please send an email to:publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️
16) Microsoft Teams Power Tip: Using Hash Tags To Group and Locate Topics For Future Reference
Courtesy of Hartgen Consultancy:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/24.html
17) Introduction to Screen Reader Instruction
This course is designed for professionals teaching students or clients to use a screen reader, such as JAWS, NVDA, or ChromeVox:https://www.pathstoliteracy.org/resources/introduction-screen-reader-instruction
18) How to Free Up Space on Your Laptop
Courtesy of Wired:https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-free-space-on-your-laptop/
19) Accessible Book Exchange between Canada, Switzerland and France
This will presumably epand to the US and elsewhere, but for now, thanks to the Marrakesh Treaty, registered users of five libraries in Canada, Switzerland and France can obtain books from each of the other libraries involved:https://www.accessiblebooksconsortium.org/news/en/2021/news_0006.html
20) Dolphin SuperNova PC Magnifier And Screen Reader
This is a YouTube demo:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iBA-dIzoi_Y
21) Some Thoughts on Smart Canes
Many of us are dubious about "Smart Canes," electronic devices which purport to do more than a conventional white cane. This post explains why:https://derekriemer.com/posts/2021/01/16/some-thoughts-on-smart-canes/
22) Robotic Guide Dogs Could Help Visually Impaired People Navigate The World. Here's How
Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley have developed a four-legged robotic dog known as 'mini cheetah' fitted with a laser mapping system, cameras, and sensors to safely guide the visually impaired on the streets. The autonomous AI robot dog could safely commute its handler through cluttered, narrow paths and obstacles just like a real canine:https://www.republicworld.com/technology-news/science/robotic-guide-dogs-could-help-visually-impaired-people-navigate-the-world-heres-how.html
23) How to Log In to Your Devices Without Passwords
You can use your face, fingerprint, or a wearable to get access to your gadgets. Here's how for Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS:https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-log-in-without-passwords-touchid-face-unlock-windows-hello/
24) What's New? April 2021 Software Updates for JAWS, ZoomText and Fusion
Place markers in Excel, enhancements in Teams and Google Docs, and more:https://blog.freedomscientific.com/whats-new-in-the-april-2021-software-updates/
25) New Blind Accessibility Tips and Tutorials Website
This reader is a computer and a smart phone trainer for persons who are blind and visually impaired that recently developed and published a website which has tutorials which can help blind or visually impaired persons get up and running with using their computer. Check out their site and their services at:https://blindaccessibilitytips.com/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Preparing Blind People for the Rest of Reality
In this very well written op-ed from Joe Orozco he lays out exactly what he believes the next generation of blind and vision impaired persons need to do in order to achieve real progress as they prepare to meet the real world:https://joeorozco.com/preparing-blind-people-for-the-rest-of-reality/
2) Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind Announces Upgraded and Expanded Braille Printing Capabilities for Medication
Our new label printing system allows us to apply contracted braille labels to anything through our home delivery pharmacy service. We can also apply braille labels to our various accessible packaging. For braille readers and family members, this is the most robust braille solution in the pharmacy industry. All braille labeling, accessible packaging and delivery are FREE. Simply call (215) 799-9900 📱️ or contact us through the Specialized Help Section on Be My Eyes to speak with a pharmacist to learn more!https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/
3) Visually impaired Users Complain After Rail Websites Go Greyscale for Prince Philip
A leading sight charity has stressed the need for inclusive web design after rail websites switched to black and white to mark Prince Philip's death, leaving partially sighted people struggling:https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/apr/12/visually-impaired-users-complain-rail-websites-greyscale-prince-philip
4) Making Cooking Fun for the Blind - A Design Thinking Case Study
Spice cubes to restore confidence and increase self-sufficiency of the visually impaired in the kitchen:https://medium.com/@anna.abraham77/making-cooking-fun-for-the-blind-a-design-thinking-case-study-5f95f2b7806b
5) Chefs and Cooks in the Disability Community Share Recipes for Accessibility
Food and cooking are essential areas where those with disabilities can often be invisible or overlooked. But Chef Regina Mitchell and other advocates are working hard to address the problem by offering classes and resources and putting forth ideas to make cooking and recipes accessible:https://www.latimes.com/food/story/2021-04-09/cooking-with-disabilities-accessibility
6) The Need for Better Accessibility in A Digital Age
Thirty years after the Americans With Disabilities Act was passed in the U.S. to make the country and the internet more accessible, the glaring problems with digital accessibility can no longer be ignored:https://www.indepthnews.net/index.php/the-world/usa-and-canada/4364-the-need-for-better-accessibility-in-a-digital-age
7) Game Subscriptions Open Doors for Players With Disabilities
Subscription services are becoming the norm for every form of entertainment. Streaming content — movies, television shows, comic books, and games — to your devices is an excellent alternative to buying and storing files, especially during the COVID-19 era. While having multiple subscriptions can be costly, it delivers a unique benefit for those who are unable to leave their homes. And for disabled individuals, subscriptions, particularly for game services, offer a relatively unknown way to enjoy the latest titles:https://www.wired.com/story/game-subscriptions-gamers-disabilities/
8) Why Tech Accessibility Matters, And The Long Road To Improving It
A growing list of companies including Google and Apple are incorporating more accessible design, but progress lags. Here's why experts say that needs to change:https://www.cnet.com/news/why-tech-accessibility-matters-and-the-long-road-to-improving-it/#ftag=CADf328eec
9) Government of Canada Increases Funding for Alternate Format Materials for Persons with Print Disabilities
The COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted the need for information, directives and guidelines on health and safety in alternate formats as Canadians have been asked to stay home as much as possible to flatten the curve:https://globalaccessibilitynews.com/2021/03/23/government-of-canada-increases-funding-for-alternate-format-materials-for-persons-with-print-disabilities/
10) Sky Q Now Gives More Control to Visually Impaired Customers
Sky Q, the award-winning TV box, is introducing Voice Guidance — a new feature that will make the platform more accessible than ever. Rolling out over the next month, Voice Guidance will make navigating the platform's TV Guide, Menus, Show Centres, Collections, and on-screen messages much easier for those with visual impairments:https://corporate.comcast.com/press/releases/sky-q-now-gives-more-control-to-visually-impaired-customers
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes (Recent and Upcoming)
1) That Real Blind Tech Show 26 | A Conversation with Derek Lane About Podcasting and Reaper Editing
April 7th 2021https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-26-a-conversation-with-derek-lane-about-podcasting-and-reaper-editing
2) Mosen At Large 112
April 10th 2021 New Cloudflare feature could put some blind people's jobs in jeopardy. Attitudes towards knowingly bringing blind children into the world. High-quality Siri voices with iOS Speak Screen. And more:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/bdc31cdf/new-cloudflare-feature-could-put-some-blind-people-s-jobs-in-jeopardy-attitudes-towards-knowingly-bringing-blind-children-into-the-world-high-quality-siri-voices-with-ios-speak-screen-and-more
3) Blind Android Users 18 | Let's Learn Editing
April 11th 2021https://blindandroidusers.com
4) Say My Meme | Classic Art Memes
April 12th 2021 | This week on Say My Meme, we're describing Classic Art memes!https://www.bemyeyes.com/podcasts/classic-art-memes
5) Be My Eyes Podcast | How do Blind People Shop for Groceries?
April 13th 2021 | Some of our favorite podcast guests share their tips and tricks for shopping blind at the grocery store:https://www.bemyeyes.com/podcasts/inside-the-mind-of-a-blind-psychologist
6) Blind Tech Guys 80 | Chat Is Good
April 14th 2021 | On this episode of the pod, Nimer shows us how accessible Google Sheets actually is, we demo Google Chat on both Android and on the web, and we continue our series on Android and iPhone settings by concentrating on WiFi settings:https://www.blindtechguys.com/81
7) Eyes on Success 2116 | Super LIDAR App
April 14th 2021 | Developers are beginning to make use of LiDAR technology in some smart phones to assist those with impaired vision. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Shane Lowe from Supersense about their new Super Lidar app and how it makes use of LiDAR to analyze the distance and warn about obstacles that might pose a danger to blind and low vision users:http://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show_notes_2116.htm
8) Mosen At Large 113
April 14th 2021 The many benefits of meditation, how I discovered them and how you can too:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/bbeeba9d/the-many-benefits-of-meditation-how-i-discovered-them-and-how-you-can-too
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events (Upcoming)
1) Clubhouse Event From Blind Bargains | Intro to OneNote: Microsoft's Hidden Gem for Productivity
April 15th 2021 | 3:55PM PT, 4:55PM MT, 5:55PM CT, 6:55PM ET, 10:55 PM GMT | With J.J. Meddaugh, Tangela Mahaffey. Join us for tips and tricks on using OneNote for Windows 10 with a screen reader. I will be using NVDA, but most screen readers should work similarly. If you don't yet have a Clubhouse account you may download the app (currently available only from the Apple App Store) in order to reserve your name and request early access.https://www.joinclubhouse.com/event/MEbWYWav
2) Zoom Workshop by Florida Outreach Center for The Blind | Introducing The Apple Watch
April 15th 2021 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Imagine a wearable device that can measure how far you have walked / ran, how often you exercised or perhaps a device that can measure your heart rate, blood oxygen and perform an Electrocardiogram and so much more. This is the Apple Watch which is available in a variety of sizes, finishes and colors. Come join the Florida Outreach Center for The Blind to hear about this versatile device that can measure various aspects of your health, run a variety of apps and perform many other tasks. In addition, a door prize will be given out at the conclusion of our workshop to one lucky participant. We look forward to having you join us for this informative and exciting event! | One tap mobile: +13126266799,,#,# | Direct dial: +1 (312) 626-6799 📱️ then enter the meeting ID#: 561 642 0005. If the system prompts you to enter a participant code, press the pound key. | Please Join with the following link:https://zoom.us/j/5616420005
3) Zoom ACB Community Call: Vispero Presentation - Shopping For a Low Vision Device
April 15th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Join Sponsored by Vispero. Charley Madson to discuss low vision devices and what to look for when shopping for the exact product to suit your needs. | One tap mobile: +13126266799,,88275409010# | Phone: (312) 626-6799 📱️ | Webinar ID: 882 7540 9010 | Passcode: 974968 | Join the webinar:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88275409010?pwd=dlZ1VFozQWlEcHZtSXBBZ25EQzRZdz09
4) Zoom ATI Conference Call: Presenter: Mark Arneson, Director of Community, Hadley School for the Blind
April 15th 2021 | 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12AM GMT on 4/16 | We will have as our special guest Mark Arneson, Director of Community, Hadley School for the Blind. Mark will be speaking to us about some of the technology services and programs that Hadley offers. Mark says even though he is new to the vision field he has spent the last three years doing a lot of listening and learning. He said he had worked in social services for 25 years prior to Hadley. He says he is very much looking forward to meeting all of us on the 15th. | Phone: +1 (312) 626-6799 📱️ | Meeting ID: 250 907 8857 | Passcode: 7172 | Link:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/2509078857?pwd=dWEwN0N1dnEwQ3pyUnlpUnJ1VFUyZz09
5) Zoom Cracking the Code, Tips for Reading PDFs with JAWS
April 15th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | This is a Freedom Scientific webinar. Register here:https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_MMB6Cpk7SJa20END-626Yg
6) ACB Zoom Call: Cutting The Cord
April 15th 2021 | 6PM PT, 7PM MT, 8PM CT, 9PM ET, 1AM GMT on 4/16 | In this ACB Zoom call they will look at ways to get the TV you want to watch, without using cable. Our emphasis will be on the channels plus app, a very accessible application. Join the event at:https://acb-org.zoom.us/j/87626532467?pwd=QkF2RmlUTXNSckNZYmlMRDBZbmlyQT09
7) ACB Zoom Webinar | Apple Presentation: Is Beta Testing for You
April 16th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | This ACB webinar focuses on the beta test process for Apple devices. Join at:https://acb-org.zoom.us/j/84439933345
8) NOAT (Network of Assistive Technologists) Webinar | Part 2 of 3 CNIB Frontier Accessibility Vision Showcase
April 16th 2021 | 10:30AM PT, 11:30AM MT, 12:30PM CT, 1:30PM ET, 5:30 PM GMT | Meet the key players and learn about available products and services for Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. join Andrea Voss from CNIB Frontier Accessibility as she leads a three part series showcasing CNIB Frontier Accessibility and their various programs, plus their partnerships with Eschenbach, Humanware, and Vispero:https://sites.google.com/noat.ca/events/2021/cnib-frontier-vision-showcase-apr-2021
9) TPGi Webinar | ARC Test Initiatives & the API: Aligning Accessibility Goals with DevOps to Achieve More
April 20th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Are you fed up with remediating accessibility issues after they crop up during integration testing? Have you found it difficult to prevent and resolve accessibility issues at the earliest stages of software development? Join Kurt Mattes, Senior Accessibility Engineer with TPGi's ARC Platform, to learn about ARC's Test Initiatives and API.https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-april-20-arc-test-initiatives-the-api-aligning-accessibility-goals-with-devops-to-achieve-more/
10) NOAT (Network of Assistive Technologists) Webinar | Part 3 of 3 CNIB Frontier Accessibility Vision Showcase
April 23rd 2021 | 10:30AM PT, 11:30AM MT, 12:30PM CT, 1:30PM ET, 5:30 PM GMT | Meet the key players and learn about available products and services for Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. join Andrea Voss from CNIB Frontier Accessibility as she leads a three part series showcasing CNIB Frontier Accessibility and their various programs, plus their partnerships with Eschenbach, Humanware, and Vispero:https://sites.google.com/noat.ca/events/2021/cnib-frontier-vision-showcase-apr-2021
11) TPGi Webinar | Crystal Ball 2021: Predictions for the ADA Title III Digital Accessibility Landscape
April 27th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | In this webinar, Seyfarth's ADA Title III Team leaders will address how the pandemic has affected the ADA Title III landscape, how the Biden Administration will likely approach ADA Title III enforcement, and what we expect in 2021 and beyond for legal actions over digital accessibility:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-april-27-crystal-ball-2021-predictions-for-the-ada-title-iii-digital-accessibility-legal-landscape/
12) Microsoft 2021 Ability Summit
May 5th & 6th 2021 | The Microsoft Ability Summit is a two-day, free digital event experience that brings together people with disabilities, allies, and accessibility professionals to Imagine, Build, Include, and Empower the future of disability inclusion and accessibility. We encourage all to join and spread the word. Registration will open in March. In the meantime, learn more and check out the Ability Summit 2021 announcement video here:https://sway.office.com/Dbr2Uz14PIn31Dq8
13) TPGi Webinar | How Any Organization Can Start Small but Deliver Big with Accessibility
May 6th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Creating and maintaining an accessible website can be a daunting proposition for many businesses for several reasons: • They aren't aware of the magnitude of how much remediation may be needed for their own website and aren't sure how to start assessing this. • They have limited resources to devote to accessibility-related activities. • They are not interested or unable to pay for expensive accessibility monitoring and testing software that caters to enterprise organizations. Register at:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-may-6-how-any-organization-can-start-small-but-deliver-big-with-accessibility/
14) Free 2021 National Coding Symposium
May 11th 2021 to May 14th 2021 | This event targets middle and high-school students, parents, teachers and adaptive technology instructors. Co-sponsored by American Printing House and the California School for the Blind, emphasis is on accessibility of the coding process. Recordings will be posted to the APH YouTube Channel afterwards. Details and registration information here:https://aphconnectcenter.org/coding/
15) Zoom Webinar by World-Renowned Apple Trainer and Consultant John Panarese and Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP) Donna Jodhan
May 22nd 2021 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Share your thoughts and suggestions as to how Apple can further enhance and improve its products to meet the requirements of blind and vision impaired persons. Share your dreams and visions as to how we can foster more collaboration with Apple. To register, please send an email to the following address no later than 12:00 Noon EST on Friday May 21st 2021:john@macfortheblind.com 📧️
16) National Federation of the Blind 2021 National Convention
July 6th 2021 through July 10th 2021 | Register for free to attend the largest gathering of blind people and take advantage of the opportunity to network with thousands of blind role models, connect with leaders in the field of blindness, attend presentations on a variety of empowering topics, and learn about the latest in technology and innovation. Learn more and register here:https://www.nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention
➜ Surveys
1) Access Technology in the Workplace
Close Date: May 1st 2021 | Open Date: Now Open | Survey Information: a. The NRTC is recruiting people with blindness or low vision (age 21+) who are working or interested in working to be part of a 5-year study about access technology (AT) use, particularly in the workplace. Some questions we will seek answers to are: i. What AT do you most commonly use? ii. How do you decide whether to use a specific AT? iii. What are your AT challenges? iv. What AT do you need that isn't currently available? b. We want to know YOUR thoughts and experiences! Participation will involve completing multiple surveys to help us determine how AT use is changing over time. Fill out the online pre-screening survey to see if you qualify! 5. Survey Rewards Offered: a. if selected from this pre-screening survey, you'll receive a small gift card after completing each survey. Additionally, the NRTC will share study results with participants:https://msstatecoe.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8i98Qap5V441mdg?source=27
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: A. T. Guys
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
If you're like me, you probably have more things to plug into your computer than available ports. That's why we've now added the Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub. Plug it into your laptop and you will get 3 USB ports, SD and Micro SD card slots, a USBC charging port, and an HDMI video port. It's available now for just $29.95:
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: John Panarese
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
John Panarese is pleased to announce an upcoming May special event in collaboration with Donna Jodhan! See how these 2 people can give you a chance to make your views known to Apple! A unique event that is attracting a lot of attention from technology experts and podcasters alike! To learn more about John and his high profile initiatives visit him at:
https://www.macfortheblind.com.
Director, https://www.MacForTheBlind.com
Authorized Apple Business Affiliate
Apple Certified Support Professional
Apple Certified Trainer
Assistive Technology Consultant
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://www.macfortheblind.com/ 🌐
Donate Course Time: https://donorbox.org/macfortheblind ❤
Email: john@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: Dean Martineau
➜ 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 if interested at:
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: Freedom Scientific
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Our world-class refreshable Braille displays deliver efficient Braille input and outstanding output for your PC or mobile device. The robust Bluetooth® connectivity provides seamless use with Windows®, Mac®, iPhones®, iPads®, and AndroidTM smartphones and tablets. Ergonomic navigation features allow quick, natural hand movements for greater productivity. When used with JAWS® screen reading software, they support our popular Braille Study Mode, an interactive tool for teaching and learning Braille. Learn more today:
https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit
Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
APH ConnectCenter and California School for the Blind (CSB) co-host FREE Virtual National Coding Symposium, May 11th - May 14th 2021. Students, parents, and teachers are invited to learn how the world of coding, programming, and related careers are available and accessible to students who are blind and visually impaired. Click here to learn more and register today!
https://www.aph.org/free-national-coding-symposium-for-students/
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The wait is over! A redefined family of Brailliant refreshable Braille displays has arrived! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series will help you stay connected, download books from many participating online libraries and share information easily with your peers. You will enjoy the intuitive, seamless user experience of KeySoft Lite, the HumanWare flagship accessibility suite designed to make you more productive. Including the Brailliant BI 40X and the Brailliant BI 20X, this is the Brailliant idea you need!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/070120211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The SuperNova family of tools meet the needs of anyone with a visual impairment because you can get the version that's right for you-should your needs change, you won't need to change your tool. Plus, they include features you can't find anywhere else; true touchscreen functionality, interactive whiteboard compatibility, bold font and image sharpening, low computer resource requirements and remote access for Citrix and other desktop services! Try a FREE Download for 30 days!
https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/products/individuals/families/supernova
Sponsor Since: January 28th 2021
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Phone (USA & Canada): +1 (866) 797-5921 📱️
Phone (UK, Europe & Asia): +44 01905 754577 📱️
Phone (Nordic & Baltic Contries): +46 0515 82175 📱️
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of GuideConnect
GuideConnect Trial
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of SuperNova
SuperNova Trial
About: Dolphin Computer Access offers a wide array of solutions for students, people in the workforce, and at home who are blind, visually impaired or have dyslexia. Each product is purposefully designed to help users, with varying levels of technology experience, do everyday things EASILY on computers and tablets. Founded in 1986 and located in Worcester England, Dolphin has grown to become a global market leader worldwide.
Sponsor: Vorail
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
24-hour peer-to-peer tech support in voice, and much more. Get answers to just about anything you need to know, whether it is blindness related or not, and make incredible friends. Follow who you like, mute those you don't. We're not alone in this blindness thing. Ask-alls range from "How to do X from an accessibility standpoint?" to "What do you keep in your bed other than yourself?" to "What word would you use to describe 2020? to "What word to describe your hopes for 2021?". Vorail is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
https://vorail.com/toptechtidbits
Sponsor Since: January 21st 2021
Website: https://www.vorail.com/toptechtidbits/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Vorail for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Vorail for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Mission: Vorail is the only platform in the world for the low vision and blind community where everybody can join conversations by voice on equal footing. Every day members of the Vorail community create ask-alls (questions) about life (news, health, technology, religion, sports and more) that allow us to see the world differently, and connect in a way that is deeper than 'liking' a photo. Vorail is an audio-only experience, voice is the window into a human soul. It does not matter if you are tall, short, wide, thin, white, or black when nobody sees your picture. Without the visuals, what counts is who you are, the person inside. That is the mission of Vorail, to create an extended family where we are judged for who we are, not what we look like.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Accessible Pharmacy, the new, home delivery pharmacy with a blind founder, is bringing its full range of support and services to Be My Eyes. Users of the Be My Eyes app can now call Accessible Pharmacy directly to get support with medication, medical devices, and even home delivery COVID testing. With a fully trained and discreet pharmacy staff on call from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Pacific, Accessible Pharmacy is the new way for blind and low vision consumers to get an easy, frictionless pharmacy experience. Call today — and you'll never have to take an Uber to the drugstore again.
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Revolution Cane Tip: Standard Roller Tip: $14.50 | Locator Dots: Small Pack of 6 (Clear or Orange): $2.00 | NFB Metal Cane Tip: $3.00 | TMAP - On Demand Tactile Street | Map (set of two maps): $25.00 | Ambutech Aluminum Folding Cane: $35.00 | NFB Chris Park Telescoping Cane: $45.00 | BoldWriter 20 Pen (Individual or 6-pack): $2.00 | Bump Dots: Mixed (50 count): $7.00 | Braille Apple Catalina VoiceOver Guide OSX 10.15 (3 volumes) - Latest Manual: $52.00 | SpeedDots iPhone Tactile Screen Protector, Phone Layout: $12.00 | NFB Chris Park 7-Piece Folding Cane: $50.00 | Visit https://adaptations.org/ to learn more today!
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Perfect for all ages, Audiojack's sound-based movies promote fun and creativity in educational, medical, and therapeutic settings. Choose from a variety of categories and activities to suit your needs. Learn more at:
https://www.aph.org/product/audiojack/
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
1) A Telescopic cane you can trust! Will stay open AND NOT COLLAPSE, extends from 11 to 59 inches. Corrugated light aluminum tubing; 2 nylon roller tips: $50. 2) Our first rugged leather "gadbag". For phone, stream, wallet, and more, 5x7x4. Will even work hands-free with AIRA, $35. 3) Our accurate non-contact talking infrared thermometer, $50, also cuff and wrist talking BP models; demos at: https://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/. 4) Our new loaded Evo 10 Daisy Player with Internet and FM Radio, Podcatcher, audio editor, Ivona voices, and lots more; $230 with Mystic Access tutorial. Tutorial. Call us at: (617) 969-7500 📱️;. Email us at: bscheur@scheur.com 📧️
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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!
Your Name Here
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, April 8, 2021 - Volume 801 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, April 8, 2021 - Volume 801
The Week's News in Access Technologyhttps://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
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Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Top Tech Tidbits. The World's #1 Access Technology Publication. Become A Future Sponsor By Joining Our Waiting List Today!
This issue made possible by sponsorship support from: Dean Martineau @ TopTechTidbits.com, John Panarese @ MacForTheBlind.com, A. T. Guys @ ATGuys.com, Barry Scheur @ GuideLightsAndGadgets.us, American Printing House @ APH.org, LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store @ Adaptations.org, Be My Eyes @ BeMyEyes.com, Vorail @ Vorail.com, Dolphin Computer Access @ YourDolphin.com, HumanWare @ HumanWare.com, and APH ConnectCenter @ APHConnectCenter.org.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) CNET Brings Us "Every Alexa Command You Can Give Your Amazon Echo Smart Speaker or Display": (7.4% of all clicks.)https://www.cnet.com/home/smart-home/every-alexa-command-you-can-give-your-amazon-echo-smart-speaker-or-display/
B.) Neuroscientists Unveil Tech for the Vision Impaired: Bionic Eyes, Textured Tablets and More: (7.4% of all clicks.)
https://spectrum.ieee.org/the-human-os/biomedical/devices/neuroscientists-unveil-tech-for-the-vision-impaired-bionic-eyes-textured-tablets-and-more
C.) The Ultimate List of Mac Keyboard Shortcuts: (5.6% of all clicks.)
https://www.idownloadblog.com/2020/11/24/mac-keyboard-shortcuts/
D.) March 2021 Issue of AccessWorld: (5.4% of all clicks.)
https://mailchi.mp/afb.org/accessworld-march2021
E.) A Complete Guide To Accessible Front-End Components: (4.1% of all clicks.)
https://www.smashingmagazine.com/2021/03/complete-guide-accessible-front-end-components/
2) No Tidbits Last Week :( So We're A Little Beefy This Week :)
No, it wasn't your imagination. Or your spam filter. For a change. Due to the overwhelmingly positive response to the new Tidbits format there has been an absolute explosion of content being submitted each week. This new content, in turn, created an over 500% increase in the amount of traffic to the Top Tech Tidbits website. We therefore had to perform some upgrades that would allow the Tidbits website to continue serving up Tidbits without so much as a cough. We were supposed to have completed these upgrades in time to get the April 1st 2021 issue out, but it just did not work out that way. So we made the decision to hold last week's issue, and return this week with the upgrades complete. Which they now are. We sincerely appreciate your patience and hope you enjoy this week's somewhat beefier than usual edition. Now on to Tidbits!3) Ask Alexa | How To Adjust The Alexa Sound Equalizer Using Direct Voice Commands
The Alexa Equalizer allows you to adjust the treble (higher frequencies), midrange (frequencies associated with voices), and bass (lower frequencies) to tailor the sound to suit your room and listening preferences. While music plays on a compatible Echo device you can use the Alexa voice assistant to adjust various settings. For example, you can say: Alexa, turn up the bass. Alexa, set the base to 6. Alexa, increase treble. Or Alexa, set midrange to 6. If you want to adjust the settings using a specific number, which we recommend, the range goes from -6 to +6 decibels.4) Top Tech Tidbits Says Thank You and Wishes Farewell to Sponsor Donna Jodhan
From all of us here at Top Tech Tidbits we would like to extend our sincerest thanks to Author and Sight Loss Coach Donna Jodhan for her generous support of Tidbits over the last year. We are also excited to announce that Donna's former Sponsorship Package has been secured by a new sponsor from our waiting list and their name will be announced next week. If you would like to become a Tidbits Sponsor in the future we encourage you to join our waiting list today by sending an email to:publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️
5) JAWS Power Tip: Finding Running Spaces and Font Changes
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/18.html6) ZoomText Power Tip: Save and Restore a View with Hotkeys
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/19.html7) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: Turning Off the Backstage Menu
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/20.html8) Introducing The All New Top Tech Tidbits Blind and Visually Impaired Technology Podcast Directory
This new BVI directory, akin to our recent addition of the BVI Listserv Directory, is intended to provide readers with a list of podcasts related to blindness and/or visual impairment technology, both old and new, that they might find useful. You may only submit your podcast to this directory once. Individual episodes of recent podcasts will still be chosen by Tidbits Editors for inclusion within the Podcasts section of the newsletter each week. If you are the administrator of a Podcast dedicated to the discussion of Assistive Technology and would like to have your Podcast included in this directory please fill out and submit this short form today:https://mvsltd.formstack.com/forms/tidbits_bvi_podcast_directory_submission
9) 5 Useful Terminal Tricks for Mac Users
Turns out you can do a lot of things faster, easier, and with more room for customization - just by peeking under the hood:https://www.wired.com/story/5-useful-terminal-tricks-for-mac/
10) The Best Gmail Settings You Might Not Have Used Yet
Almost all of us have an account. Most of us use it every day. But if you peel back the curtain a little, you'll find some powerful tools buried underneath:https://www.wired.com/story/best-hidden-useful-gmail-settings/
11) You Definitely Need These 11 Essential Apple Watch Apps
While this article is not accessibility-specific, each of these tools will supercharge the capabilities of your Apple wearable:https://www.wired.com/story/11-essential-apple-watch-apps/
12) HIMS BrailleSense 6 Overview
A recent video from the company about this forthcoming Android device has been described as well-done:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PM3eY8MJLQM
13) Siri Shortcuts iOS Power Users Will Love
Here are some shortcuts, both from Apple and otherwise, that you might want to consider implementing:https://www.applegazette.com/siri-2/siri-shortcuts-ios-power-users-will-love/
14) Controlling Windows With a Braille Entry Keyboard:
This is a new power capability of Leasey:http://www.hartgen.org/node/539
15) Hartgen Consultancy JAWS Tips and Tricks Page
There are only five here now but the number will apparently grow, so have a look:http://www.hartgen.org/tips
16) AppleVis Unlimited: What's New and Noteworthy for March 2021
The best way to keep abreast:https://www.applevis.com/blog/applevis-unlimited-whats-new-and-noteworthy-march-2021
17) The Blind PodMaker
A mailing list, a podcast and weekly chats on a new and increasingly popular social medium: Clubhouse, all about helping blind people create podcasts:https://mosen.org/tbp-announce/
18) Free 2021 National Coding Symposium
This event targets middle and high-school students, parents, teachers and adaptive technology instructors. Co-sponsored by American Printing House and the California School for the Blind, it runs from May 11th 2021 to May 14th 2021. Emphasis is on accessibility of the coding process. Recordings will be posted to the APH YouTube Channel afterwards. This site has details and registration information:https://aphconnectcenter.org/coding/
19) Scribe for Meetings Is Out Of Beta And Now Available Worldwide
Read about it here:https://pneumasolutions.com/scribe-for-meetings-is-out-of-beta-and-available-world-wide/
20) Text Transcripts from Braillists Foundation
Transcripts of six "masterclasses" are now available, with more to follow:https://www.braillists.org/media/
21) Excel with Microsoft Excel
This insightful post comes to us from Web Friendly Help:https://webfriendlyhelp.com/excel-with-microsoft-excel/
22) GoodMaps Has Great Plans for 2021
Read about the present and future of this free navigation app for iOS and Android:https://www.aph.org/goodmaps-has-great-plans-for-2021/
23) Windows 10 Spring 2021 Update: Every New Feature, When to Download and More
Courtesy of CNET:https://www.cnet.com/how-to/windows-10-spring-2021-update-every-new-feature-when-to-download-and-more/
24) The Fast Food Approach To Web Accessibility
There has been much discussion of late about "Accessibility Overlays" and the companies that provide and promote them. In addition to being the Publisher of Tidbits I (Aaron Di Blasi) am also a web developer. I have come across these overlays "in-code" and my experience with them was the very same as reported here in this very well written prospectus on the issue from Pneuma Solutions:https://pneumasolutions.com/the-fast-food-approach-to-web-accessibility/
25) JAWS, ZoomText and Fusion April 2021 Updates
You can now review the April 2021 updates for JAWS, ZoomText or Fusion on each of their respective product release pages.26) Freedom Scientific JAWS Speech and Sound Schemes Contest
JAWS and Fusion users can enter to create a speech and sound scheme that willl appear in the next version of JAWS. Quality submissions will be considered for integration into the JAWS 2022 release later this year. Winners will receive a $100 Amazon gift card and will be announced on their blog sometime during the last week of June 2021. Submissions must be received no later than May 15th 2021. Everyone will have an opportunity to try each submission and vote on their favorite scheme at that time. Visit the Speech and Sounds Contest page below for all the details and to fill out the form to submit a scheme. Please note that only U.S. participants are eligible to win. And Vispero employees are not eligible to win:https://www.freedomscientific.com/speechandsounds/
27) AMI Launches Fully Accessible Android AMI-TV App for the Blind and Partially Sighted Community
Accessible Media, Inc. has announced the launch of the accessible Android version of the AMI-TV App, created especially for the blind and partially sighted community. It is available now for download on the Google Play Store:https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/ami-launches-fully-accessible-android-ami-tv-app-for-the-blind-and-partially-sighted-community-889429528.html
➜ Podcasts
1) Hadley Presents: A Conversation With The Experts | Back in the Kitchen After Vision Loss
April 2nd 2021 Classically trained chef Regina Mitchell shares how vision loss shaped her life. Regina worked her way back into the kitchen and is now helping others cook with confidence, no matter their vision:https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/back-kitchen-after-vision-loss
2) Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther 22 | Maple Syrup and the World Wide Web
April 2nd 2021 Spring has sprung, and in eastern Canada this means maple syrup season! Ms. Lilly schools us on how trees are way more like animals than we ever imagined. The Vanier Sugar Shack is our bucket list destination where we learn all about the indigenous and francophone connections to maple syrup. Learn tips on how to tell exactly when sap becomes syrup during the cooking process, and reflect on what trees can teach us about embracing diversity. It's all in episode 22 of Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther — starting with facts about the "wood wide web".:https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/episode-22-maple-syrup-and-the-wood-wide-web/id1530444764?i=1000515521282
3) Mosen At Large 110
April 3rd 2021 New Siri voices, ableist use of the word "blind" in the media, cochlea implants, iOS hints and more:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/9b3a1d78/new-siri-voices-ableist-use-of-the-word-blind-in-the-media-cochlea-implants-ios-hints-and-more
4) Blind Android Users 17 | Fun With Android Keyboards and Tasker
April 4th 2021https://blindandroidusers.com
5) Say My Meme | GIF Me A Break
April 5th 2021 | Whether it's casually dropped in a text or mispronounced like the peanut butter, the GIF can be an elusive animal. This week on the podcast, Caroline and Will discuss GIF accessibility, and describe five popular GIFs ranging from The Rock to the girl who jumps like a horse:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gif-me-a-break/id1554583264?i=1000515854230
6) Blind Tech Guys 80 | Lean Crew Talks Docs
April 6th 2021 | On this week's episode, Nimer continues our current series on web apps accessibility by running through Google Docs, and in our Did You Know Section, we continue exploring settings on both Android and iPhone:https://www.blindtechguys.com/80
7) Be My Eyes Podcast | Inside The Mind of a Blind Psychologist
April 6th 2021https://www.bemyeyes.com/podcasts/inside-the-mind-of-a-blind-psychologist
8) Eyes on Success 2115 | Coping with Vision Loss
April 7th 2021 | Paul Wallis is a low vision optometrist whose treatment relies on dealing with the psychological adjustment to vision loss before engaging patients in the use of adaptive aids. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with him about types of vision loss, his methods, as well as about his book "Macular Degeneration: A guide to help someone you love":https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202115.htm
➜ Webinars and Training Courses (Upcoming)
1) Free Training Webinars by Enhanced Vision | Merlin Ultra, Full HD Video Magnifier
April 8th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Are you looking for an affordable desktop magnifier with crystal clear images and vibrant color? Want a wide field of view with amazing detail? If so, we'd like to introduce you to the Merlin ultra on Thursday, April 8 at noon Eastern time. We'll demo a Merlin ultra and show you how to make the most of its features:https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_UL_c6-Q0Q5KuwR9N3WeB8w
2) NOAT (Network of Assistive Technologists) Webinar | Part 1 of 3 CNIB Frontier Accessibility Vision Showcase
April 9th 2021 | 10:30AM PT, 11:30AM MT, 12:30PM CT, 1:30PM ET, 6:30 PM GMT | Meet the key players and learn about available products and services for Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. join Andrea Voss from CNIB Frontier Accessibility as she leads a three part series showcasing CNIB Frontier Accessibility and their various programs, plus their partnerships with Eschenbach, Humanware, and Vispero:https://sites.google.com/noat.ca/events/2021/cnib-frontier-vision-showcase-apr-2021
3) Technology User Group (TUG) Voice Dream Suite Demonstration
April 10th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | Voice Dream Suite is a suite of products that work with your smart devices and offer a scanner for OCR, a reader for many types of documentation, and a writer for creating documents and letters. What sets the Voice Dream Suite apart from similar apps is ease of use. Voice Dream Suite is not free, so you will need to decide if the cost is worth the benefit. You do not have to RSVP for this event. The presentation will last about 90 minutes and may be joined by calling:(319) 527-4994 📱️
4) Virtual Event | Retail Therapy? Let's Go Shopping!
April 10th 2021 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | It's time for new things for Spring! Ready for a little retail therapy? Let's Go Shopping! We invite you to join us for an all-day, online, accessible, virtual mall crawl like no other. Zoom in to our virtual shopping mall and discover small businesses offering everything from food to fashion, gadgets to gifts, beauty to subscription boxes, tech to treasures for Mother's Day, birthdays, graduation, Father's Day, and just for you! Save the date! 8AM to 5PM Pacific Time. Where: Our Zoom virtual mall. How to join us: Get on our announce list by sending a blank email to: lgs+subscribe@groups.io 📧️ and you will be subscribed to the email list. Why subscribe to the list? It's the only way to get your Zoom room login link and password. Not comfortable with using Zoom? No problem! We'll provide you with phone numbers you can use to call in to listen to our fabulous vendors present their products. Plus, by adding your name to the group email announce list, you'll get access to special promotions, discounts, and even door prizes! Want more info? Go to the Let's Go Shopping main information page at:https://accessibleinsights.info/blog/lets-go-shopping/ for more details
5) Tek Talk Webinar (Zoom) | Chromebook
April 13th 2021 | 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12AM GMT | Learn about Chromebooks and tutorials to use them. Join here:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/839935813?pwd=eXFMRHpxNnhFZlRiMHAzRWNWYXM3Zz09
6) Cracking the Code, Tips for Reading PDFs with JAWS (Zoom)
April 15th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | This is a Freedom Scientific webinar. Register here:https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_MMB6Cpk7SJa20END-626Yg
7) NOAT (Network of Assistive Technologists) Webinar | Part 2 of 3 CNIB Frontier Accessibility Vision Showcase
April 16th 2021 | 10:30AM PT, 11:30AM MT, 12:30PM CT, 1:30PM ET, 6:30 PM GMT | Meet the key players and learn about available products and services for Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. join Andrea Voss from CNIB Frontier Accessibility as she leads a three part series showcasing CNIB Frontier Accessibility and their various programs, plus their partnerships with Eschenbach, Humanware, and Vispero:https://sites.google.com/noat.ca/events/2021/cnib-frontier-vision-showcase-apr-2021
8) TPGi Webinar | ARC Test Initiatives & the API: Aligning Accessibility Goals with DevOps to Achieve More
April 20th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Are you fed up with remediating accessibility issues after they crop up during integration testing? Have you found it difficult to prevent and resolve accessibility issues at the earliest stages of software development? Join Kurt Mattes, Senior Accessibility Engineer with TPGi's ARC Platform, to learn about ARC's Test Initiatives and API.https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-april-20-arc-test-initiatives-the-api-aligning-accessibility-goals-with-devops-to-achieve-more/
9) NOAT (Network of Assistive Technologists) Webinar | Part 3 of 3 CNIB Frontier Accessibility Vision Showcase
April 23rd 2021 | 10:30AM PT, 11:30AM MT, 12:30PM CT, 1:30PM ET, 6:30 PM GMT | Meet the key players and learn about available products and services for Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. join Andrea Voss from CNIB Frontier Accessibility as she leads a three part series showcasing CNIB Frontier Accessibility and their various programs, plus their partnerships with Eschenbach, Humanware, and Vispero:https://sites.google.com/noat.ca/events/2021/cnib-frontier-vision-showcase-apr-2021
10) TPGi Webinar | Crystal Ball 2021: Predictions for the ADA Title III Digital Accessibility Landscape
April 27th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | In this webinar, Seyfarth's ADA Title III Team leaders will address how the pandemic has affected the ADA Title III landscape, how the Biden Administration will likely approach ADA Title III enforcement, and what we expect in 2021 and beyond for legal actions over digital accessibility:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-april-27-crystal-ball-2021-predictions-for-the-ada-title-iii-digital-accessibility-legal-landscape/
11) Microsoft 2021 Ability Summit
May 5th & 6th 2021 | The Microsoft Ability Summit is a two-day, free digital event experience that brings together people with disabilities, allies, and accessibility professionals to Imagine, Build, Include, and Empower the future of disability inclusion and accessibility. We encourage all to join and spread the word. Registration will open in March. In the meantime, learn more and check out the Ability Summit 2021 announcement video here:https://sway.office.com/Dbr2Uz14PIn31Dq8
12) Free 2021 National Coding Symposium
May 11th 2021 to May 14th 2021 | This event targets middle and high-school students, parents, teachers and adaptive technology instructors. Co-sponsored by American Printing House and the California School for the Blind, emphasis is on accessibility of the coding process. Recordings will be posted to the APH YouTube Channel afterwards. Details and registration information here:https://aphconnectcenter.org/coding/
13) National Federation of the Blind 2021 National Convention
July 6th 2021 through July 10th 2021 | Register for free to attend the largest gathering of blind people and take advantage of the opportunity to network with thousands of blind role models, connect with leaders in the field of blindness, attend presentations on a variety of empowering topics, and learn about the latest in technology and innovation. Learn more and register here:https://www.nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention
➜ Surveys
1) Access Technology in the Workplace
Close Date: May 1st 2021 | Open Date: Now Open | Survey Information: a. The NRTC is recruiting people with blindness or low vision (age 21+) who are working or interested in working to be part of a 5-year study about access technology (AT) use, particularly in the workplace. Some questions we will seek answers to are: i. What AT do you most commonly use? ii. How do you decide whether to use a specific AT? iii. What are your AT challenges? iv. What AT do you need that isn't currently available? b. We want to know YOUR thoughts and experiences! Participation will involve completing multiple surveys to help us determine how AT use is changing over time. Fill out the online pre-screening survey to see if you qualify! 5. Survey Rewards Offered: a. if selected from this pre-screening survey, you'll receive a small gift card after completing each survey. Additionally, the NRTC will share study results with participants:https://msstatecoe.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8i98Qap5V441mdg?source=27
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) March 2021 Freedom Scientific Student of the Month
The Freedom Scientific Student of the Month Program features K-12 students living in the U.S. who are blind or visually impaired and use Freedom Scientific technology to achieve educational goals. The Student of the Month for March 2021 is Kai, a second grader from California:https://blog.freedomscientific.com/march-2021-freedom-scientific-student-of-the-month/
2) Uber Ordered to Pay $1.1M After Denying Blind Passenger Rides 14 Times
Uber has been ordered to pay $1.1 million to a blind passenger after an independent arbitrator ruled that the company's drivers discriminated against her after refusing her rides on 14 separate occasions:https://www.fox2detroit.com/news/uber-ordered-to-pay-1-1m-after-denying-blind-passenger-rides-14-times
3) Blind and Visually Impaired Teens Adapt to Zoom for Social Activities
When nearly everything went virtual and the term "lockdown" was newly abuzz last spring, Stephanie Hurd and Ryan Menter began asking how they would modify their teen programming for Future in Sight, a nonprofit that provides education, rehabilitation and social services to those who are blind or visually impaired:https://www.seacoastonline.com/story/news/local/2021/04/06/zoom-for-blind-and-visually-impaired-virtual-activities-nonprofit-future-in-sight/4819725001/
4) 'Our Hands Are Part of Our Vision': Nevada Mother Describes Living Visually Impaired During Pandemic
Remember when you first went to the grocery store at the start of the pandemic and all the aisles were turned into one-way only? Now imagine doing that as a person who is visually impaired:https://www.8newsnow.com/news/local-news/our-hands-are-part-of-our-vision-nevada-mother-describes-living-visually-impaired-during-pandemic/
➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Humanware Braillenote Touch+ 32
Listing Date: 3/25/2021 | Price: $4,850.00 USD | Condition: Gently used. | Description: Rarely used like new. Proprietary keysoft and Android software. Braille keyboard, touch screen & speech output. Wireless and Bluetooth capability. Google Playstore. Original packaging with charger, earbuds & quick reference manual. Free US shipping. | Contact: ccldmac2367@gmail.com 📧️ or (781) 883-1076 📱️ |1) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: John Panarese
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
High profile Apple trainer and consultant John Panarese is teaming up with Apple Certified Support Professional Donna Jodhan to offer you a very rare and unique opportunity! Yes! An opportunity for you to say what is on your mind! Coming on May 22nd 2021! Your chance to provide feedback to Apple about their iOS devices and Mac Computers! Stay tuned for more info! To learn more about John and his incredible work visit him at:
https://www.macfortheblind.com.
Director, https://www.MacForTheBlind.com
Authorized Apple Business Affiliate
Apple Certified Support Professional
Apple Certified Trainer
Assistive Technology Consultant
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://www.macfortheblind.com/ 🌐
Donate Course Time: https://donorbox.org/macfortheblind ❤
Email: john@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: Dean Martineau
➜ 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 if interested at:
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: APH ConnectCenter
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
VisionAware Resources Including the Information and Referral LineAPH ConnectCenter has resources to help blind and low vision people thrive. In addition to the Reader's Digest Getting Started with Vision Loss Guide You can also call the Information and Referral Line at 1-800-232-5463 📱️ with your questions about resources and living with blindness and low vision:
https://visionaware.org/
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The wait is over! A redefined family of Brailliant refreshable Braille displays has arrived! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series will help you stay connected, download books from many participating online libraries and share information easily with your peers. You will enjoy the intuitive, seamless user experience of KeySoft Lite, the HumanWare flagship accessibility suite designed to make you more productive. Including the Brailliant BI 40X and the Brailliant BI 20X, this is the Brailliant idea you need!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/070120211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The SuperNova family of tools meet the needs of anyone with a visual impairment because you can get the version that's right for you-should your needs change, you won't need to change your tool. Plus, they include features you can't find anywhere else; true touchscreen functionality, interactive whiteboard compatibility, bold font and image sharpening, low computer resource requirements and remote access for Citrix and other desktop services! Try a FREE Download for 30 days!
https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/products/individuals/families/supernova
Sponsor Since: January 28th 2021
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Phone (USA & Canada): +1 (866) 797-5921 📱️
Phone (UK, Europe & Asia): +44 01905 754577 📱️
Phone (Nordic & Baltic Contries): +46 0515 82175 📱️
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of GuideConnect
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Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of SuperNova
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About: Dolphin Computer Access offers a wide array of solutions for students, people in the workforce, and at home who are blind, visually impaired or have dyslexia. Each product is purposefully designed to help users, with varying levels of technology experience, do everyday things EASILY on computers and tablets. Founded in 1986 and located in Worcester England, Dolphin has grown to become a global market leader worldwide.
Sponsor: Vorail
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
24-hour peer-to-peer tech support in voice, and much more. Get answers to just about anything you need to know, whether it is blindness related or not, and make incredible friends. Follow who you like, mute those you don't. We're not alone in this blindness thing. Ask-alls range from "How to do X from an accessibility standpoint?" to "What do you keep in your bed other than yourself?" to "What word would you use to describe 2020? to "What word to describe your hopes for 2021?". Vorail is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
https://vorail.com/toptechtidbits
Sponsor Since: January 21st 2021
Website: https://www.vorail.com/toptechtidbits/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Vorail for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Vorail for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Mission: Vorail is the only platform in the world for the low vision and blind community where everybody can join conversations by voice on equal footing. Every day members of the Vorail community create ask-alls (questions) about life (news, health, technology, religion, sports and more) that allow us to see the world differently, and connect in a way that is deeper than 'liking' a photo. Vorail is an audio-only experience, voice is the window into a human soul. It does not matter if you are tall, short, wide, thin, white, or black when nobody sees your picture. Without the visuals, what counts is who you are, the person inside. That is the mission of Vorail, to create an extended family where we are judged for who we are, not what we look like.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Accessible Pharmacy, the new, home delivery pharmacy with a blind founder, is bringing its full range of support and services to Be My Eyes. Users of the Be My Eyes app can now call Accessible Pharmacy directly to get support with medication, medical devices, and even home delivery COVID testing. With a fully trained and discreet pharmacy staff on call from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Pacific, Accessible Pharmacy is the new way for blind and low vision consumers to get an easy, frictionless pharmacy experience. Call today — and you'll never have to take an Uber to the drugstore again.
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Revolution Cane Tip: Standard Roller Tip: $14.50 | Locator Dots: Small Pack of 6 (Clear or Orange): $2.00 | NFB Metal Cane Tip: $3.00 | TMAP - On Demand Tactile Street | Map (set of two maps): $25.00 | Ambutech Aluminum Folding Cane: $35.00 | NFB Chris Park Telescoping Cane: $45.00 | BoldWriter 20 Pen (Individual or 6-pack): $2.00 | Bump Dots: Mixed (50 count): $7.00 | Braille Apple Catalina VoiceOver Guide OSX 10.15 (3 volumes) - Latest Manual: $52.00 | SpeedDots iPhone Tactile Screen Protector, Phone Layout: $12.00 | NFB Chris Park 7-Piece Folding Cane: $50.00 | Visit https://adaptations.org/ to learn more today!
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Perfect for all ages, Audiojack's sound-based movies promote fun and creativity in educational, medical, and therapeutic settings. Choose from a variety of categories and activities to suit your needs. Learn more at:
https://www.aph.org/product/audiojack/
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Listen from 4 to 5 PM EDT on April 10th 2021 for Barry on LGS5 with some exciting new products: a telescopic cane you can trust! Our first leather "Gadbag" or "Crap Carrier" (Your choice of name.) Cases to fit every Braille display; Our accurate non-contact talking infrared thermometer, $50, also cuff and wrist talking blood pressure models; demos at: https://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/. Our new loaded Evo 10 Daisy Player with Internet and FM Radio, Podcatcher, audio editor, Ivona voices, and lots more; $230 with Mystic Access 10 hour tutorial; New adjustable size phone case. | Call Barry: (617) 969-7500 📱️; bscheur@scheur.com 📧️
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
If you're like me, you probably have more things to plug into your computer than available ports. That's why we've now added the Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub. Plug it into your laptop and you will get 3 USB ports, SD and Micro SD card slots, a USBC charging port, and an HDMI video port. It's available now for just $29.95:
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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 📱️.
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|
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, March 25, 2021 - Volume 800 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, March 25, 2021 - Volume 800
The Week's News in Access Technologyhttps://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Brailliant BIX: The Smart, Intuitive, Connected Family of Braille Displays
A redefined family of Brailliant refreshable braille displays has arrived! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series will help blind people (or individuals who are blinds), including students and professionals, stay connected, take notes, send text messages, and download books from online libraries. The intuitive and seamless user experience of KeySoft Light, HumanWare's flagship accessibility suite, was designed to make it easy for users to stay connected and productive. The Brailliant BI X series also offers users flexibility with its storage options and built-in braille translation, ensuring compatibility with a variety of file types. Saving, opening, and transferring data could not be easier. With the Brailliant BI 40X and the Brailliant BI 20X, its mobile-friendly option, this is the Brailliant idea we have all been waiting for! And that is not all, as HumanWare will soon offer a free audio support upgrade. To learn more about the Brailliant BIX devices, visit:
https://bit.ly/3tOzax2
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Learn to Use VoiceOver on Your iPhone: A Beginner's Guide: (11.4% of all clicks.)https://geeksmodo.com/learn-to-use-voiceover-on-your-iphone-a-beginners-guide/
B.) JAWS Power Tip: Using the Skim Reading Tool: (10.5% of all clicks.)
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/13.html
C.) NV Access In-Process For March 12th 2021: (6.5% of all clicks.)
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-12th-march-2021/
D.) Starbucks Launches Technology to Aid Visually Impaired at U.S. Stores: (5.0% of all clicks.)
https://www.marketwatch.com/story/starbucks-launches-technology-to-aid-visually-impaired-at-us-stores-2021-03-15
E.) Top Tech Tidbits Blind and Visually Impaired Technology Listserv Directory: (4.2% of all clicks.)
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
2) 800th Issue of Tidbits
Since this is our 800th issue, we'll comment on the history of adaptive technology as announced in Tidbits. In the inaugural issue, December 16, 2004, we announced the release of JFW version 6. Now, with the product at version 2021, here is a YouTube playlist of JAWS quick tips:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLk-npwu4WEBSLlaPnlHeZQ9jy7O9QXfTB
3) Ask Alexa | Coronavirus Commands
To ask for help timing your handwashing for 20 seconds, ask Alexa: "Alexa, help me wash my hands."4) Accessible World Tek Talk
Accessible World Tek Talk has been around almost as long as Tidbits. We first mentioned the weekly show in the April 27th 2006 issue. On GMT 30 March, hear about Nathan Tech on Tek Talk at 00:00:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/839935813?pwd=eXFMRHpxNnhFZlRiMHAzRWNWYXM3Zz09
5) AFB AccessWorld
AFB AccessWorld has been around a lot longer than Tidbits. The March 2021 issue includes "Introducing Pneuma Solutions: Two Tech Innovators are Back with a New Company and New Products," "Video Streaming Services, Part 2: Cutting the Cable Cord with YouTube TV," "Popular Web Conferencing Programs, Part 2: Teleconferencing Using Google Meet with Assistive Technology in Mind," "The Accessibility of Apple Fitness+," and more:https://mailchi.mp/afb.org/accessworld-march2021
6) No iPhones
Of course, the iPhone didn't exist in 2004. We announced the imminent release of the first accessiblde one in July, 2009. Now, thanks to iGeeksBlog, learn how to put a web page shortcut on your iPhone home screen:https://www.igeeksblog.com/how-to-create-website-shortcuts-on-iphone-ipad/
7) 36th CSUN Conference
The keynote address and feature presentations from the 36th CSUN conference are now available on YouTube. Clearly, the CSUN Conference was a going concern before the Tidbits idea was even a glimmer:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLB7reFpQdLPP0W40usN3W1zdCVohyzk3t
8) CNET Brings Us "Every Alexa Command You Can Give Your Amazon Echo Smart Speaker or Display"
https://www.cnet.com/home/smart-home/every-alexa-command-you-can-give-your-amazon-echo-smart-speaker-or-display/?PostType=link&ServiceType=twitter&TheTime=2021-03-21T18:51:50&UniqueID=7EBABD5C-8A76-11EB-93DE-2BF439982C1E&ftag=COS-05-10aaa0b9) Hop into Fusion: A Software Solution for Every-Bunny
With the Easter-inspired title, Vispero and American Printing House offer "Hop into Fusion: A Software Solution for Every-Bunny" on GMT Monday, 29 March at 15:30. Register here:https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_U0v3d2ZsTba7iS4vel2IKA?utm_content=158946477&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&hss_channel=tw-2382446636
10) WebAIM: Survey of Web Accessibility Practitioners #3 Results
https://webaim.org/blog/practitioners-survey-3/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter11) Words and Names From the First Issue of Tidbits
Here are some words and names appearing in the first several issues of Tidbits: Maestro for Pocket PC, Window-Eyes, Windows XP, Windows Vista, FreedomBox, Kurzweil 1000, OpenBook, (those last two are still available for sale but not being developed,) Pac Mate, dial-up Internet, Encarta, and more.12) Voiceover for the Mac
We announced VoiceOver for the Mac when it was released in 2005. Now, here's The ultimate list of Mac keyboard shortcuts:https://www.idownloadblog.com/2020/11/24/mac-keyboard-shortcuts/
13) A Complete Guide To Accessible Front-End Components
Via Smashing Magazine: https://www.smashingmagazine.com/2021/03/complete-guide-accessible-front-end-components/14) Mailing List For Current and Aspiring Creators of Podcasts:
creators-subscribe@theblindpodmaker.com 📧️15) Refurbished Phones and Laptops Can Save You a Bundle. 5 Questions to Ask Before You Buy
From CNEThttps://www.cnet.com/how-to/refurbished-phones-and-laptops-can-save-you-a-bundle-5-questions-to-ask-before-you-buy/?UniqueID=88F81060-8965-11EB-B506-E4D34744363C&ServiceType=twitter&ftag=COS-05-10aaa0b&TheTime=2021-03-20T10:17:54&PostType=link
16) Talkback
We mentioned Talkback for the first time in 2010. Now, the popular Lookout app has gotten an update with more languages and usability improvements:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.accessibility.reveal&hl=en_US&gl=US
17) The Buzzy, Chatty, Out-of-Control Rise of Clubhouse
Paul Davison and Rohan Seth's audio-only app is the tech crush of the pandemic. Now comes the hard part: hosting a global gabfest, without the toxicity:https://www.wired.com/story/inside-clubhouse-audio-app-paul-davison-rohan-seth/
18) Neuroscientists Unveil Tech for the Vision Impaired: Bionic Eyes, Textured Tablets and More
There are many, many wearable and portable devices aimed at improving life for the blind and visually impaired (in some cases, even restoring vision). Such devices have been developed for pretty much every part of the body: fingers, wrists, abdomen, chest, face, ears, feet, even the tongue. The thing is—people don't want to wear them:https://spectrum.ieee.org/the-human-os/biomedical/devices/neuroscientists-unveil-tech-for-the-vision-impaired-bionic-eyes-textured-tablets-and-more
19) Introducing the ForAll Accessible El Podcast
This Spanish speaking podcast, hosted by Gerardo Corripio Flores, aims to provide the Latin American blind community with those tools, products, services and apps that they need to better their quality of life, be it education, work or leisure:https://podcasts.apple.com/mx/podcast/forall-accesible-el-podcast/id1534983814
20) AI Hearing Aids Optimize Sound in Real Time
A software update is coming to an ear near you. Whisper, which develops AI-enabled hearing aids, just announced that they've rolled out the first software upgrade to their Whisper Hearing System, AI-powered hearing aids that improve over time:https://www.zdnet.com/article/ai-hearing-aid-optimizes-sound-in-real-time/
21) RightHear Orientation App For The Blind - A Future Echo For Accessible Indoor Spaces
RightHear's technology pairs a smartphone app with strategically placed Bluetooth beacons or accessible spots to provide detailed and customizable audio wayfinding information for all manner of public indoor environments:https://www.forbes.com/sites/gusalexiou/2021/03/17/righthear-orientation-app-for-the-blind--a-future-echo-for-accessible-indoor-spaces/?sh=57d219313b18
22) What to Know About Starbucks' New Technology Service That Helps Blind and Low-Vision Customers
The coffee chain will also rollout new large print and Braille menus:https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Food/starbucks-technology-service-helps-blind-low-vision-customers/story?id=76418800
23) New Neuroscience-Driven Multisensory Technologies to Help the Vision Impaired
Learn about new research showing how feedback from digital haptics - using the sense of touch coupled with motion - enables the visually impaired to easily learn about new objects and spaces. It's just one way researchers are leveraging all the human senses to develop new technology for vision rehabilitation:https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2021-03/cns-nnm031221.php
➜ Podcasts
1) Braillecast 18 | Advocating for Braille in the Wider World
March 16th 2021 | This session talked through advocacy strategies that you can use to facilitate access to braille in the wider world. This includes having healthcare and other personal communication sent to you in braille, as well as advocating for braille signage in public places:https://www.braillecast.com/podcast/
2) Blind Tech Guys 78 | Art And Tech Intersect
March 16th 2021 | On this week's pod, Clare McLaughlin, an artist from Ireland, joined us to discuss her project, Seen — Unseen and we interviewed Brendan Lewis, President and Director of Business Development, with RealThing AI, to talk about RealSAM, which allows you access to various libraries:https://www.blindtechguys.com/78
3) Be My Eyes Podcast | Growing Up Blind With A Sighted Mom
March 18th 2021https://www.bemyeyes.com/podcasts/growing-up-blind-with-a-sighted-mom
4) Hadley Presents: A Conversation With The Experts | Well Connected Call-In Community for Older Adults
March 19th 2021 In this episode we sit down with the director of Well Connected, an organization that offers free, call-in groups for adults over 60 on a wide variety of interest areas: games, music, meditation and more:https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/well-connected-call-community-older-adults
5) Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther 21 | Sled Dogs and Mushing Blind
March 19th 2021 Episode 21 is all about sled dogs and mushing blind. Rachael Scdoris has done just that - four times as an Edytarod competitor. Learn how Rachael took her love of dog mushing to the competitive level and has since made it her business:https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/outdoors-with-lawrence-gunther/id1530444764
6) Say My Meme 8 | Take Me Home Mario
March 19th 2021 | Sometimes memes must be sung. On this episode, a listener named Violet gives us a sparkling rendition of the John Denver - Super Mario mashup: "Take Me Home, Rainbow Road."https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/say-my-meme/id1554583264
7) Blind Android Users 15 | Manage Your Files, Battery and Chat with GoneMAD Music Player
March 21st 2021 | We inform our listeners about the launch of our new YouTube Channel on which we will upload all our podcast episodes. In our Android Basics section we talk about file management on Android, including the best File Management apps. We also talk about battery management and how to get the most of a single charge. In our In Focus Section this week we are joined by Kyle Hunsberger from GoneMad Software, LLC to discuss his very popular and accessible app, GoneMad Music Player. In our App of the Week Section we demo the Gone Mad Music Player App. And in our My Android Journey Section Mariam Mohsen discusses her android Journey and how she got started with Android:https://blindandroidusers.com
8) Eyes on Success 2113 | Understanding Your Body
March 24th 2021 | Krishna Washburn is a professional ballet dancer and instructor who runs Dark Room Ballet. She believes that visually impaired people could benefit from having a better understanding of how their bodies and body parts work. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with her about her instructional methods as well as how her on-line classes work:https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202113.htm
➜ Webinars and Training Courses (Upcoming)
2) Mystic Access: Extend Your Browser With Browser Extensions
March 25th 2021 | 5:30PM PT, 6:30PM MT, 7:30PM CT, 8:30PM ET, 12:30 AM GMT | A Mystic Access free event. Here is the link to attend:https://mysticaccess.zoom.us/j/84337036730?pwd=cGZ6amdQZWpkV2d6ZmMrU1I5cGYvdz09
3) Free Training Course from Humanware and the California School for the Blind (CSB) | BrailleNote Touch Plus Notetaker for Students, Teachers and Families
March 31st 2021 | 3:30 PM PT, 4:30 PM MT, 5:30 PM CT, 6:30 PM ET, 11:30 PM GMT | Presented by: Rachel Feinberg, West Coast Blindness Product Specialist on behalf of HumanWare Technologies. The format of the training will be primarily question and answer.https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdzzuwVaRWiWtgsBmN_XPYsihhJ8b_vXAc8eYCV19CJrwNfcQ/viewform
4) TPGi Webinar | Accessibility and Higher Education Institutions: What You Need to Know
March 31st 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Brian Landrigan from TPGi and special guest Jeff Mills, founder of GrackleDocs, for a webinar on how higher education institutions can achieve their accessibility goals:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-march-31-accessibility-and-higher-education-institutions-what-you-need-to-know/
5) TravelAbility Launches the World's First Pitchfest Featuring Adaptive Technology + Products from 9 Countries
April 1st 2021 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | TravelAbility LaunchPad will be the first of four TravelAbility events in 2021. TravelAbility is sponsored by Google, Expedia, AccessiBe and Design Sensory. Think "Shark Tank" at the intersection of travel and disability. LaunchPad will be promoted internationally to provide exposure to prospective investors, grant funders and travel industry professionals that may become possible distribution partners. Registration is $195. Check out the agenda and register here:http://travelability.net/agenda/
6) Technology User Group (TUG) Voice Dream Suite Demonstration
April 10th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | Voice Dream Suite is a suite of products that work with your smart devices and offer a scanner for OCR, a reader for many types of documentation, and a writer for creating documents and letters. What sets the Voice Dream Suite apart from similar apps is ease of use. Voice Dream Suite is not free, so you will need to decide if the cost is worth the benefit. You do not have to RSVP for this event. The presentation will last about 90 minutes and may be joined by calling:(319) 527-4994 📱️
7) TPGi Webinar | ARC Test Initiatives & the API: Aligning Accessibility Goals with DevOps to Achieve More
April 20th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Are you fed up with remediating accessibility issues after they crop up during integration testing? Have you found it difficult to prevent and resolve accessibility issues at the earliest stages of software development? Join Kurt Mattes, Senior Accessibility Engineer with TPGi's ARC Platform, to learn about ARC's Test Initiatives and API.https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-april-20-arc-test-initiatives-the-api-aligning-accessibility-goals-with-devops-to-achieve-more/
8) Microsoft 2021 Ability Summit
May 5th & 6th 2021 | The Microsoft Ability Summit is a two-day, free digital event experience that brings together people with disabilities, allies, and accessibility professionals to Imagine, Build, Include, and Empower the future of disability inclusion and accessibility. We encourage all to join and spread the word. Registration will open in March. In the meantime, learn more and check out the Ability Summit 2021 announcement video here:https://sway.office.com/Dbr2Uz14PIn31Dq8
9) National Federation of the Blind 2021 National Convention
July 6th 2021 through July 10th 2021 | Register for free to attend the largest gathering of blind people and take advantage of the opportunity to network with thousands of blind role models, connect with leaders in the field of blindness, attend presentations on a variety of empowering topics, and learn about the latest in technology and innovation. Learn more and register here:https://www.nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Guide Dogs for the Blind to Unleash Virtual Workshops for Children and Teens Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired
Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB) has a new program coming out of the starting blocks in April, when it launches "Ready, Set, FORWARD", a series of virtual workshops about the guide dog lifestyle aimed at youth who are blind or visually impaired:https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210310005222/en/Guide-Dogs-for-the-Blind-to-Unleash-Virtual-Workshops-for-Children-and-Teens-Who-Are-Blind-or-Visually-Impaired
2) National Braille Press, LightHouse of San Francisco, University of Alabama Huntsville Launch the Accessible Graphics Consortium
The primary goal of the AGC is to promote greater tactile graphic literacy through research, improved production methods, and curriculum development:https://www.prweb.com/releases/national_braille_press_lighthouse_of_san_francisco_university_of_alabama_huntsville_launch_the_accessible_graphics_consortium/prweb17768635.htm
3) Sight-Loss Charity Creates Scents of The Gruffalo to Help Visually Impaired Children Connect to Story Time
Sight-loss charity Guide Dogs has bought a popular children's book to life by creating and releasing the smell of The Gruffalo, and the four other characters, Mouse, Fox, Owl and Snake:https://www.daynurseries.co.uk/news/article.cfm/id/1644998/sight-loss-charity-create-scents-of-the-gruffalo-to-help-visually-impaired-children-connect-to-storytime
4) This Shopping Cart is Designed for People Who are Visually Impaired (Video)
This shopping cart aims to allow people who are visually impaired to shop independently. Anna Frederikse, a young designer from New Jersey has created SONA, a prototype shopping cart that involves a special handle to provide voice commands and haptic signals for shoppers to navigate the store:https://news.yahoo.com/shopping-cart-designed-people-visually-212043138.html
5) Blind Taxi Passenger Dropped Off At Wrong Location And Left To Fend For Herself
Victoria Nolan, a blind rower training for the Paralympics, was able to hold it together when she was dropped off by a taxi driver in the wrong location with no idea where she was because it's not the first time she's had an upsetting experience with a taxi:https://www.castanet.net/news/BC/328313/Blind-taxi-passenger-dropped-off-in-wrong-location-left-to-fend-for-herself
6) Vaccine Rollout Leaves Behind the Blind, Paralyzed, Autistic
Millions of Americans with disabilities are being overlooked during the pandemic recovery, stuck at home without therapy or social programs, and struggling to book Covid-19 vaccinations:https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-03-18/disabled-citizens-left-behind-in-u-s-push-to-overcome-pandemic
7) American Council of the Blind Strives for Accessible and Incluside Currency
According to recent press reports, as well as statements from the White House Press Office, the Biden Administration is considering accelerating the redesign of the $20 bill to incorporate a picture of Harriet Tubman. The Council welcomes such a redesign, provided that the newly redesigned bill incorporates an accessibility feature for the blind and visually impaired:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/acb-supports-accessible-and-inclusive-currency-301237697.html
8) 'Bonocle' Invention to Give Visually Impaired Access to 2022 World Cup Using Braille
The invention, named 'Bonocle' is a product of the The Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy's flagship innovation programme, Challenge 22, and works to convert digital content into Braille, which allows fans with visual impairments to access content:https://www.dohanews.co/bonocle-invention-to-give-visually-impaired-access-to-2022-world-cup-using-braille/
➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: One Humanware Braillenote Touch+ 32
Listing Date: 3/25/2021 | Price: $4,850.00 USD | Condition: Gently used. | Description: Rarely used like new. Proprietary keysoft and Android software. Braille keyboard, touch screen & speech output. Wireless and Bluetooth capability. Google Playstore. Original packaging with charger, earbuds & quick reference manual. Free US shipping. | Contact: ccldmac2367@gmail.com 📧️ or (781) 883-1076 📱️ |1) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: Donna Jodhan
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Author, Donna Jodhan Publications
President, Sterling Creations
President, Barrier Free Canada / Canada sans Barrieres
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://donnajodhan.com/ 🌐
Donate: https://donorbox.org/author-donna-jodhan ❤
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: Dean Martineau
➜ 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 if interested at:
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: APH ConnectCenter
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
What is it? Who Needs it? What comes next? Join Dr. Alexis G. Malkin of the New England College of Optometry and David Bradburn of HumanWare on March 31st at 2:00 PM EST as they explore the difference between a regular eye exam and a low vision exam and discuss low vision aids or devices to help with hobbies and daily activities:
https://visionaware.org/
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The wait is over! A redefined family of Brailliant refreshable Braille displays has arrived! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series will help you stay connected, download books from many participating online libraries and share information easily with your peers. You will enjoy the intuitive, seamless user experience of KeySoft Lite, the HumanWare flagship accessibility suite designed to make you more productive. Including the Brailliant BI 40X and the Brailliant BI 20X, this is the Brailliant idea you need!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/070120211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Deliver a positive experience to all of your customers by making your self-service stations accessible for all levels of sight. Choose SuperNova Kiosks and empower people with partial sight to explore the screen in comfort and provide complete access for people who are blind. Learn more about SuprNova Kiosks at:
https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/supernova-kiosks
Sponsor Since: January 28th 2021
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Phone (USA & Canada): +1 (866) 797-5921 📱️
Phone (UK, Europe & Asia): +44 01905 754577 📱️
Phone (Nordic & Baltic Contries): +46 0515 82175 📱️
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of GuideConnect
GuideConnect Trial
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of SuperNova
SuperNova Trial
About: Dolphin Computer Access offers a wide array of solutions for students, people in the workforce, and at home who are blind, visually impaired or have dyslexia. Each product is purposefully designed to help users, with varying levels of technology experience, do everyday things EASILY on computers and tablets. Founded in 1986 and located in Worcester England, Dolphin has grown to become a global market leader worldwide.
Sponsor: Vorail
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
24-hour peer-to-peer tech support in voice, and much more. Get answers to just about anything you need to know, whether it is blindness related or not, and make incredible friends. Follow who you like, mute those you don't. We're not alone in this blindness thing. Ask-alls range from "How to do X from an accessibility standpoint?" to "What do you keep in your bed other than yourself?" to "What word would you use to describe 2020? to "What word to describe your hopes for 2021?". Vorail is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
https://vorail.com/toptechtidbits
Sponsor Since: January 21st 2021
Website: https://www.vorail.com/toptechtidbits/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Vorail for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Vorail for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Mission: Vorail is the only platform in the world for the low vision and blind community where everybody can join conversations by voice on equal footing. Every day members of the Vorail community create ask-alls (questions) about life (news, health, technology, religion, sports and more) that allow us to see the world differently, and connect in a way that is deeper than 'liking' a photo. Vorail is an audio-only experience, voice is the window into a human soul. It does not matter if you are tall, short, wide, thin, white, or black when nobody sees your picture. Without the visuals, what counts is who you are, the person inside. That is the mission of Vorail, to create an extended family where we are judged for who we are, not what we look like.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Accessible Pharmacy, the new, home delivery pharmacy with a blind founder, is bringing its full range of support and services to Be My Eyes. Users of the Be My Eyes app can now call Accessible Pharmacy directly to get support with medication, medical devices, and even home delivery COVID testing. With a fully trained and discreet pharmacy staff on call from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Pacific, Accessible Pharmacy is the new way for blind and low vision consumers to get an easy, frictionless pharmacy experience. Call today — and you'll never have to take an Uber to the drugstore again.
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Revolution Cane Tip: Standard Roller Tip: $14.50 | Locator Dots: Small Pack of 6 (Clear or Orange): $2.00 | NFB Metal Cane Tip: $3.00 | TMAP - On Demand Tactile Street | Map (set of two maps): $25.00 | Ambutech Aluminum Folding Cane: $35.00 | NFB Chris Park Telescoping Cane: $45.00 | BoldWriter 20 Pen (Individual or 6-pack): $2.00 | Bump Dots: Mixed (50 count): $7.00 | Braille Apple Catalina VoiceOver Guide OSX 10.15 (3 volumes) - Latest Manual: $52.00 | SpeedDots iPhone Tactile Screen Protector, Phone Layout: $12.00 | NFB Chris Park 7-Piece Folding Cane: $50.00 | Visit https://adaptations.org/ to learn more today!
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Perfect for all ages, Audiojack's sound-based movies promote fun and creativity in educational, medical, and therapeutic settings. Choose from a variety of categories and activities to suit your needs. Learn more at:
https://www.aph.org/product/audiojack/
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Our new Non-Contact Infrared Talking Thermometer is by far the most consistent and accurate today; along with new talking BP cuff and wrist models. Demos and audio walk-throughs: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us. New Evo 10 Media and Daisy Players back in stock, no BARD, but lots more: audio editor, Ivona voices, Internet radio and podcatcher; $230.00. Now that spring is here take your Orbit Writer with you protect$ by our own mobile use case: $35.00. And bag specials always when you call, AND doggy toys too. | Call Barry: (617) 969-7500 📱️; bscheur@scheur.com 📧️
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
If you're like me, you probably have more things to plug into your computer than available ports. That's why we've now added the Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub. Plug it into your laptop and you will get 3 USB ports, SD and Micro SD card slots, a USBC charging port, and an HDMI video port. It's available now for just $29.95:
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: John Panarese
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
No need to be afraid of Apple technology! John Panarese has the perfect solution for you! Visit https://www.macfortheblind.com.
Director, https://www.MacForTheBlind.com
Authorized Apple Business Affiliate
Apple Certified Support Professional
Apple Certified Trainer
Assistive Technology Consultant
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://www.macfortheblind.com/ 🌐
Donate Course Time: https://donorbox.org/macfortheblind ❤
Email: john@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.
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|
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, March 18, 2021 - Volume 799 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, March 18, 2021 - Volume 799
The Week's News in Access Technologyhttps://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Top Tech Tidbits. The World's #1 Access Technology Publication. Brought to you by:
This issue made possible by sponsorship support from: Dean Martineau @ TopTechTidbits.com, Donna Jodhan @ DonnaJodhan.com, John Panarese @ MacForTheBlind.com, A. T. Guys @ ATGuys.com, Barry Scheur @ GuideLightsAndGadgets.us, American Printing House @ APH.org, LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store @ Adaptations.org, Be My Eyes @ BeMyEyes.com, Vorail @ Vorail.com, Dolphin Computer Access @ YourDolphin.com, HumanWare @ HumanWare.com, and APH ConnectCenter @ APHConnectCenter.org.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Windows 10's Most Annoying Problems and How to Troubleshoot Them: (9.6% of all clicks.)https://www.cnet.com/how-to/windows-10s-most-annoying-problems-and-how-to-troubleshoot-them/
B.) JAWS Power Tip: Using Voice Schemes: (6.2% of all clicks.)
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/15.html
C.) 15 Best Tips and Tricks for DuckDuckGo Search Users: (5.6% of all clicks.)
https://mashtips.com/duckduckgo-search-tips-tricks/
D.) Microsoft's New 'Group Transcribe' iPhone App Offers Free Real-Time Transcription and Translation: (5.3% of all clicks.)
https://9to5mac.com/2021/03/03/microsofts-group-transcribe-iphone-app-free-transcription-translation/
E.) HIMS Announces The BrailleSense 6: 32-Cell Android Device Running Android 10: (5.2% of all clicks.)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2I1642cdvto
2) Starbucks Launches Technology to Aid Visually Impaired at U.S. Stores
Starbucks has launched a new service, Aira, designed to aid the visually impaired in U.S. stores. Developed by Aira Tech Corp., the service provides those who are blind or have low vision with visual information, such as the layout of a Starbucks location, through a smartphone app. Starbucks tested Aira in seven U.S. cities earlier this year, including at the Washington D.C. signing store. This summer, Starbucks will bring Braille and large print menus to stores in Canada and the U.S.:https://www.marketwatch.com/story/starbucks-launches-technology-to-aid-visually-impaired-at-us-stores-2021-03-15
3) JAWS Power Tip: Using the Skim Reading Tool
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/13.html4) Recording | Tek Talk Meeting | March 8th 2021 | Deborah Armstrong | What To Do When Your PC Stops Talking
Learn more and listen:https://tinyurl.com/y5u8dsx2
Direct Download:
https://tinyurl.com/r7n6h69z
5) JAWS with Microsoft Teams Power Tip: Sending and Receiving Chats with JAWS
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/7.html6) Top Tech Tidbits Blind and Visually Impaired Technology Listserv Directory:
We won't post this every week, but we will when there are additions, of which there were several last week. If you are the administrator of a Listserv dedicated to the discussion of Assistive Technology, and would like to have your Listserv included in this free directory, please visit:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
7) ZoomText Power Tip: Learning ZoomText's Key Features and Hotkeys Are Only a Tooltip Away
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/17.html8) Learn to Use VoiceOver on Your iPhone: A Beginner's Guide
This very thorough and helpful guide comes to us from Geeksmodo:https://geeksmodo.com/learn-to-use-voiceover-on-your-iphone-a-beginners-guide/
9) Axe-Con Digital Accessibility Conference
This conference received positive reviews. It is now over, but registering for it gives you access to the recordings:https://www.deque.com/axe-con/
10) NV Access In-Process For March 12th 2021
Learn more about the latest version of NVDA, and get ready for the Microsoft Ability Summit:https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-12th-march-2021/
➜ Podcasts
1) Braillecast | Getting the Braille you Need in Work or Education
March 9th 2021 | This session covered how to obtain braille through the Access To Work and Disabled Students Allowance schemes. We talked about how to advocate for the braille you need and what options you have. We also looked at advocating for braille textbooks and braille signage in work or education:https://www.braillecast.com/podcast/
2) Blind Android Users 14 | Getting To Know System Settings
March 14th 2021 | Shout out back at The Blind Android Users Mailing List for mentioning us in this episode yet again, along with the new Top Tech Tidbits Blind and Visually Impaired Listserv Directory. Thank you! In this episode Warren gives a tour of the settings app, Tabitha AKA Snowsprite unboxes her LG V60, and Warren delves into Shortcut Maker and demonstrates Star Launcher. Finally, Judy Jones talks about her Android journey:https://blindandroidusers.com
3) Say My Meme 7 | Work, Work, Work Work Work
March 15th 2021 | Let's face it: If work didn't suck at least a little, they wouldn't have to pay you to show up. We all get frustrated with our jobs, and when we do, the healthy response is to spend an inordinate amount of office time researching the perfect image to encapsulate exactly how much you want to throw your boss into the volcano from Lord of the Rings. In this episode, Caroline from Scribely describes: Work memes!https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/say-my-meme/id1554583264
4) Blind Tech Guys 77 | Dolphin, The Right Of Reply
March 16th 2021 | On this episode, Neill from Dolphin Access responds to our critique of their screenreader, Thomas reviews how accessible Netflix is on both Android and iPhone and Kirt demonstrates voiceover command settings, a powerful feature for iPhone customization:https://www.blindtechguys.com/77
5) Eyes on Success 2112 | Steering the Course to a Career In Science
March 17th 2021 | Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey first interviewed Rebecca Alford in 2011 when she was in high school. Despite being visually impaired she went on to win the Intel Science competition and we've been following her progress ever since. Now with a Ph.D. in chemical and biomechanical engineering, having started her first job, she shares her experiences with us.:https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202112.htm
➜ Webinars and Training Courses (Upcoming)
1) Freedom Scientific Webinar: Using JAWS with Gmail in Standard View
March 18th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | There are two views available for displaying Gmail in your web browser, Basic HTML and Standard. In December 2019, we discussed how to use Gmail in Basic HTML view. In our upcoming webinar, we show you how to use Gmail in Standard view, which is chosen by default. Standard view allows you to use all of the included Gmail features, and is navigable with JAWS. Register here:https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_PjR6_TCcQ9-CL0wNQVkddw
2) ACB Community Call: Vispero Presentation: Free Product Training Sessions And Resources
March 18th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 8PM GMT | Join Jeff Bazer to discuss Free Product Training Sessions and Resources. Sponsored by Vispero. | One tap mobile: +13126266799,,88275409010# | Phone: (312) 626-6799 📱️ | Webinar ID: 882 7540 9010 | Passcode: 974968 | Join the webinar:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88275409010?pwd=dlZ1VFozQWlEcHZtSXBBZ25EQzRZdz09
3) Guidelights and Gadgets Product Demonstrations for The Florida Outreach Center for the Blind
March 18th 2021 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Zoom meeting. | This workshop is committed to describing and demonstrating unique products within three categories: gadgets and electronics, leather bags and pouches of all types and "all things dog" for handlers and their companions. One tap mobile: +13126266799,,#,# | Direct Dial: +1 (312) 626-6799 📱️ | Meeting ID: 561 642 0005 | If the system prompts you to enter a participant code just press the pound key. Join at:https://zoom.us/j/5616420005
4) ACB Community Call: Apple Presentation: What About The Mac, Part 2
March 19th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 8PM GMT | Join certified Apple Teacher Matt Vollbrecht and the TTJ Instructor Team as they provide an overview, complete with demonstrations of course, of how to use Mac OS with Voiceover. Learn the basics of setting up a Mac, navigating with both a keyboard and a TrackPad, and where to go to learn more. Sponsored by The Tech Juggernaut. | One tap mobile: +13126266799,,84439933345# | Phone: (312) 626-6799 📱️ | Webinar ID: 844 3993 3345 | Join the webinar:https://acb-org.zoom.us/j/84439933345
5) ACB Community Call: Exploring NVDA: Google Docs
March 20th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 8PM GMT | Let's explore Google Docs. Each week we will go through the ins and outs of NVDA, a free and open source screen reader for Windows. | One tap mobile: +13126266799,,85748494298# | Phone: (312) 626-6799 📱️ | Meeting ID: 857 4849 4298 | Passcode: 272636 | Join the call:https://acb-org.zoom.us/j/85748494298?pwd=QXY4ZmtJU045bWxvZXBIb2JldTEvQT09
6) Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey | Making the Most of iOS Voice Control in Conjunction with VoiceOver
March 24th 2021 | 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 11PM GMT | VLANJ Tech Talks- virtual online monthly topic-based evening event. Presented by VLANJ instructors or guest speakers on various to, which include pics include accessible technologies, helpful apps, etc.https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAucOygqDwtHtP5XldL3JPoufPS2FclYGKP
7) Mystic Access: Free Question and Answer Session About Evo E10 DAISY Media Player
March 26th 2021 | 5:30PM PT, 6:30PM MT, 7:30PM CT, 8:30PM ET, 12:30AM GMThttps://mysticaccess.zoom.us/j/87625412547?pwd=YkFLNFBVWk5VenJxaEdEY3h6M09yUT09
8) Mystic Access: Extend Your Browser With Browser Extensions
March 27th 2021 | 5:30PM PT, 6:30PM MT, 7:30PM CT, 8:30PM ET, 12:30 AM GMT | A Mystic Access free event. Here is the link to attend:https://mysticaccess.zoom.us/j/84337036730?pwd=cGZ6amdQZWpkV2d6ZmMrU1I5cGYvdz09
9) Free Training Course from Humanware and the California School for the Blind (CSB) | BrailleNote Touch Plus Notetaker for Students, Teachers and Families
March 31st 2021 | 3:30 PM PT, 4:30 PM MT, 5:30 PM CT, 6:30 PM ET, 11:30 PM GMT | Presented by: Rachel Feinberg, West Coast Blindness Product Specialist on behalf of HumanWare Technologies. The format of the training will be primarily question and answer.https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdzzuwVaRWiWtgsBmN_XPYsihhJ8b_vXAc8eYCV19CJrwNfcQ/viewform
10) TPGi Webinar | Accessibility and Higher Education Institutions: What You Need to Know
March 31st 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Brian Landrigan from TPGi and special guest Jeff Mills, founder of GrackleDocs, for a webinar on how higher education institutions can achieve their accessibility goals:https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-march-31-accessibility-and-higher-education-institutions-what-you-need-to-know/
11) TravelAbility Launches the World's First Pitchfest Featuring Adaptive Technology + Products from 9 Countries
April 1st 2021 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | TravelAbility LaunchPad will be the first of four TravelAbility events in 2021. TravelAbility is sponsored by Google, Expedia, AccessiBe and Design Sensory. Think "Shark Tank" at the intersection of travel and disability. LaunchPad will be promoted internationally to provide exposure to prospective investors, grant funders and travel industry professionals that may become possible distribution partners. Registration is $195. Check out the agenda and register here:http://travelability.net/agenda/
12) TPGi Webinar | ARC Test Initiatives & the API: Aligning Accessibility Goals with DevOps to Achieve More
April 20th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Are you fed up with remediating accessibility issues after they crop up during integration testing? Have you found it difficult to prevent and resolve accessibility issues at the earliest stages of software development? Join Kurt Mattes, Senior Accessibility Engineer with TPGi's ARC Platform, to learn about ARC's Test Initiatives and API.https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-april-20-arc-test-initiatives-the-api-aligning-accessibility-goals-with-devops-to-achieve-more/
13) Microsoft 2021 Ability Summit
May 5th & 6th 2021 | The Microsoft Ability Summit is a two-day, free digital event experience that brings together people with disabilities, allies, and accessibility professionals to Imagine, Build, Include, and Empower the future of disability inclusion and accessibility. We encourage all to join and spread the word. Registration will open in March. In the meantime, learn more and check out the Ability Summit 2021 announcement video here:https://sway.office.com/Dbr2Uz14PIn31Dq8
14) National Federation of the Blind 2021 National Convention
July 6th 2021 through July 10th 2021 | Register for free to attend the largest gathering of blind people and take advantage of the opportunity to network with thousands of blind role models, connect with leaders in the field of blindness, attend presentations on a variety of empowering topics, and learn about the latest in technology and innovation. Learn more and register here:https://www.nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention
➜ Job Announcements
1) Virtual Career Fair For People With Disabilities
March 23rd 2021 | Are you a person with a disability, looking for a career opportunity or internship? This Virtual Career Fair is free for career seekers with disabilities to attend. Experienced professionals, recent college graduates and college students with disabilities meet online with employers across the nation to discuss competitive career opportunities. Candidates are invited to interact with employers via chat sessions. Learn more and register here:https://www.careereco.com/Fair/EventDetails?fairId=6a058ac1-e837-4b18-a883-ac4e0161fe77
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Cable News Networks, ESPN Get FCC Audio Description Exemption
The FCC has officially approved requests from CNN, Fox News, MSNBC and ESPN to be exempt from audio description rules that are required of top national non-broadcast networks, based on the amount of non-live linear programming the networks offer per calendar quarter:https://www.tvtechnology.com/news/cable-news-networks-espn-get-fcc-audio-description-exemption
2) What Assistive Technologies Can Do To Make STEM More Inclusive
https://science.thewire.in/the-sciences/what-assistive-technologies-can-do-to-make-stem-more-inclusive/3) Super.com Partners with Mars Vision to Improve Access for Visually Impaired Gamers
https://venturebeat.com/2021/03/10/super-com-partners-with-mars-vision-to-improve-access-for-visually-impaired-gamers/4) 4 Signs Your Product Is Not As Accessible As You Think
https://techcrunch.com/2021/03/15/4-signs-your-product-is-not-as-accessible-as-you-think/5) Social Media Has Upped its Accessibility Game. But Deaf Creators Say it Has a Long Way to Go
Captioning on social media can be hit or miss, making the experience sometimes alienating for deaf users:https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2021/03/15/social-media-accessibility-captions/
➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: Brailiant BI 14 Portable Braille Display
Listing Date: 2/25/2021 | Price: $375.00 USD | Condition: Gently used. | Description: This display has a new main board , and a new battery. Comes with Executive Products Carrying Case. I will ship with in the Continental US. | Contact: jimoneill1@verizon.net 📧️ or (215) 317-9877 📱️ |2) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: Dean Martineau
➜ 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 if interested at:
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: APH ConnectCenter
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
What is it? Who Needs it? What comes next? Join Dr. Alexis G. Malkin of the New England College of Optometry and David Bradburn of HumanWare on March 31st at 2:00 PM EST as they explore the difference between a regular eye exam and a low vision exam and discuss low vision aids or devices to help with hobbies and daily activities:
https://visionaware.org/
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The wait is over! A redefined family of Brailliant refreshable Braille displays has arrived! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series will help you stay connected, download books from many participating online libraries and share information easily with your peers. You will enjoy the intuitive, seamless user experience of KeySoft Lite, the HumanWare flagship accessibility suite designed to make you more productive. Including the Brailliant BI 40X and the Brailliant BI 20X, this is the Brailliant idea you need!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/070120211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Deliver a positive experience to all of your customers by making your self-service stations accessible for all levels of sight. Choose SuperNova Kiosks and empower people with partial sight to explore the screen in comfort and provide complete access for people who are blind. Learn more about SuprNova Kiosks at:
https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/supernova-kiosks
Sponsor Since: January 28th 2021
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Phone (USA & Canada): +1 (866) 797-5921 📱️
Phone (UK, Europe & Asia): +44 01905 754577 📱️
Phone (Nordic & Baltic Contries): +46 0515 82175 📱️
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of GuideConnect
GuideConnect Trial
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of SuperNova
SuperNova Trial
About: Dolphin Computer Access offers a wide array of solutions for students, people in the workforce, and at home who are blind, visually impaired or have dyslexia. Each product is purposefully designed to help users, with varying levels of technology experience, do everyday things EASILY on computers and tablets. Founded in 1986 and located in Worcester England, Dolphin has grown to become a global market leader worldwide.
Sponsor: Vorail
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
24-hour peer-to-peer tech support in voice, and much more. Get answers to just about anything you need to know, whether it is blindness related or not, and make incredible friends. Follow who you like, mute those you don't. We're not alone in this blindness thing. Ask-alls range from "How to do X from an accessibility standpoint?" to "What do you keep in your bed other than yourself?" to "What word would you use to describe 2020? to "What word to describe your hopes for 2021?". Vorail is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
https://vorail.com/toptechtidbits
Sponsor Since: January 21st 2021
Website: https://www.vorail.com/toptechtidbits/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Vorail for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Vorail for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Mission: Vorail is the only platform in the world for the low vision and blind community where everybody can join conversations by voice on equal footing. Every day members of the Vorail community create ask-alls (questions) about life (news, health, technology, religion, sports and more) that allow us to see the world differently, and connect in a way that is deeper than 'liking' a photo. Vorail is an audio-only experience, voice is the window into a human soul. It does not matter if you are tall, short, wide, thin, white, or black when nobody sees your picture. Without the visuals, what counts is who you are, the person inside. That is the mission of Vorail, to create an extended family where we are judged for who we are, not what we look like.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Accessible Pharmacy, the new, home delivery pharmacy with a blind founder, is bringing its full range of support and services to Be My Eyes. Users of the Be My Eyes app can now call Accessible Pharmacy directly to get support with medication, medical devices, and even home delivery COVID testing. With a fully trained and discreet pharmacy staff on call from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Pacific, Accessible Pharmacy is the new way for blind and low vision consumers to get an easy, frictionless pharmacy experience. Call today — and you'll never have to take an Uber to the drugstore again.
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Revolution Cane Tip: Standard Roller Tip: $14.50 | Locator Dots: Small Pack of 6 (Clear or Orange): $2.00 | NFB Metal Cane Tip: $3.00 | TMAP - On Demand Tactile Street | Map (set of two maps): $25.00 | Ambutech Aluminum Folding Cane: $35.00 | NFB Chris Park Telescoping Cane: $45.00 | BoldWriter 20 Pen (Individual or 6-pack): $2.00 | Bump Dots: Mixed (50 count): $7.00 | Braille Apple Catalina VoiceOver Guide OSX 10.15 (3 volumes) - Latest Manual: $52.00 | SpeedDots iPhone Tactile Screen Protector, Phone Layout: $12.00 | NFB Chris Park 7-Piece Folding Cane: $50.00 | Visit https://adaptations.org/ to learn more today!
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Perfect for all ages, Audiojack's sound-based movies promote fun and creativity in educational, medical, and therapeutic settings. Choose from a variety of categories and activities to suit your needs. Learn more at:
https://www.aph.org/product/audiojack/
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Our new Non-Contact Infrared Talking Thermometer is by far the most consistent and accurate today; along with new talking BP upper arm and wrist models. Demos and audio walk-throughs: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/. New Evo 10 Media and Daisy Players back in stock, no BARD, but lots more: an audio editor, Ivona voices, Internet radio and podcatcher; $230.00. Call for bag specials! | Call Barry: (617) 969-7500 📱️; bscheur@scheur.com 📧️
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
If you're like me, you probably have more things to plug into your computer than available ports. That's why we've now added the Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub. Plug it into your laptop and you will get 3 USB ports, SD and Micro SD card slots, a USBC charging port, and an HDMI video port. It's available now for just $29.95:
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: John Panarese
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
John Panarese is a high profile apple trainer ready to help you break the Covid choke hold! Take advantage of his Winter and Spring course offerings! Visit https://www.macfortheblind.com for more information.
Director, https://www.MacForTheBlind.com
Authorized Apple Business Affiliate
Apple Certified Support Professional
Apple Certified Trainer
Assistive Technology Consultant
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://www.macfortheblind.com/ 🌐
Donate Course Time: https://donorbox.org/macfortheblind ❤
Email: john@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: Donna Jodhan
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Author, Donna Jodhan Publications
President, Sterling Creations
President, Barrier Free Canada / Canada sans Barrieres
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://donnajodhan.com/ 🌐
Donate: https://donorbox.org/author-donna-jodhan ❤
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.
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, March 11, 2021 - Volume 798 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, March 11, 2021 - Volume 798
The Week's News in Access Technologyhttps://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: APH ConnectCenter: Your One-Stop Hub for Resources About Thriving with Blindness or Low Vision
APH ConnectCenter's suite of websites: VisionAware, APH CareerConnect, and FamilyConnect are chock-full of information about thriving with blindness and low vision at all ages and stages of life. If you're new to life with vision loss - check out the Reader's Digest Getting Started Guide available on the VisionAware website. If you have blindness related questions call our I&R Line at (800) 232-5463 📱️. If you're looking for inspiring success stories from people thriving with blindness, informational webinars, blogs, resources for living with vision loss, and our blindness community calendar check out VisionAware, APH CareerConnect, and FamilyConnect at:
https://aphconnectcenter.org/
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) The 10 Breakthrough Technologies of 2021: (8.5% of all clicks.)https://www.technologyreview.com/2021/02/24/1014369/10-breakthrough-technologies-2021/
B.) 6 Clever Ways to Use the Windows Command Prompt: (8.3% of all clicks.)
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https://gizmodo.com/12-things-you-didnt-know-you-could-do-in-google-chrome-1846373120
E.) JAWS Power Tip: Create Row and Column Headers for Ranges that Read Automatically for JAWS Users: (5.0% of all clicks.)
https://doccenter.freedomscientific.com/doccenter/doccenter/rs25c51746a0cc/2013-09-25_ExcelAndWordHeaders/02_HeadersInExcel.htm
2) HIMS Announces The BrailleSense 6: 32-Cell Android Device Running Android 10
It has been rare in recent years to see exciting new product announcements at CSUN, but we have one this year. This YouTube link brings the announcement:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2I1642cdvto
And you can visit the BrailleSense 6 Page here:
https://hims-inc.com/bs6/
3) JAWS Power Tip: Using Voice Schemes
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/15.html4) Top Tech Tidbits Launches Blind and Visually Impaired Technology Listserv Directory:
If your list has been mentioned in Top Tech Tidbits in the past you should now find it listed within this new free directory. If you are the administrator of a Listserv dedicated to the discussion of Assistive Technology, and would like to have your Listserv included in this free directory, please visit:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
5) JAWS with Microsoft Teams Power Tip: Opening a File Using the Files Section of Microsoft Teams
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/14.html6) Accessibility Overlay Controversy
There has been a lot of social media discussion about "web accessibility" companies, one in particular, providing web accessibility overlays that make web sites less usable than they would otherwise be. Jonathan Mosen is carrying out an investigation on the subject on the Mosen At Large podcast to be recorded on Saturday, 13 March at 19:00 GmT, and people are welcome to join the live recording or listen to the podcast version:https://mosen.org/mosenatlarge/
7) ZoomText Power Tip: Seeing Two Places at One Time
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/12.html8) New 'Say My Meme" Podcast Describes Memes for People Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired
Episodes air every week. 6 episodes available so far. "I really, deeply believe that memes are important, and that blind people should be able to enjoy them and use them to enhance their social and cultural credibility," says Will Butler, VP of community at Be My Eyes. "This is how people communicate." To that end, Butler has started a new podcast, Say My Meme, which literally describes some of the internet's most famous memes for a blind audience. On the show, his cohost, Caroline Desrosiers, describes them to Butler, who is legally blind, meaning he gets the same experience as the audience in hearing about many of them for the first time. "Millions and millions of blind people and people with low vision are just not participating in this whole cultural expression," Butler says. "So, when she describes it to me, I feel like I'm being let in on a whole new slice of culture." He says that, just a few weeks into the show, he's been able to have more dynamic conversations with friends because he can now reference memes:https://www.fastcompany.com/90611875/this-delightful-new-podcast-describes-memes-for-blind-and-visually-impaired-people
9) CSUN 2021 | Booth Schedule for Google
There are still two days left, and visiting exhibitors' booths is free. You can drop in to discuss the topics that interest you according to the schedule:https://sites.google.com/view/csun2021/booth-schedule?authuser=0
10) NLS BARD Confirms That BARD No Longer Supports Any Version of iOS Earlier Than 11.0
NLS staff worked hard to find a way around this situation, but after an exhaustive search, we have found none. We realize that, especially in these difficult times, this poses a very real hardship for some of you, since the only solution for continuing to use BARD Mobile is to purchase a newer device:https://agenparl.eu/nls-bard-support-bard-and-older-ios-devices/
11) Microsoft's New 'Group Transcribe' iPhone App Offers Free Real-Time Transcription and Translation
Microsoft recently released a new iPhone app that's aiming to improve in-person meetings and conversations with a new take on smart transcription. The Group Transcribe iOS app is now available and boasts features like highly accurate real-time transcription, translation, speaker attribution, and more:https://9to5mac.com/2021/03/03/microsofts-group-transcribe-iphone-app-free-transcription-translation/
12) Sounding out Your Story with Audiojack from APH
Audiojack is a fully accessible iOS and Android app complete with sound-based movies and activities that prompt you to tell a story based on what you hear. An "Audiojack" is an audio-based movie comprised only of sound designs that, together, tell a story for your imagination. The Audiojack web and mobile app contain a library of Audiojacks and related activities appropriate for young students to older adults at all levels of experience:https://www.aph.org/sounding-out-your-story-with-audiojack-from-aph/
13) Recent BrailleCast Podcasts
The latest episodes of this braillecentric podcast include coverage of using braille for notetaking and public speaking:https://braillecast.com
14) Windows 10's Most Annoying Problems and How to Troubleshoot Them
This comes to us from CNET:https://www.cnet.com/how-to/windows-10s-most-annoying-problems-and-how-to-troubleshoot-them/
15) 15 Best Tips and Tricks for DuckDuckGo Search Users
Brought to us by MashTips:https://mashtips.com/duckduckgo-search-tips-tricks/
16) Vocalizer SAPI Voices for Any Screen Reader Now with 148 Voices
This $115 package includes voices for a lot of languages:https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=60_20&products_id=242
17) Apple-Friendly Debugger Helps Make Apps and Websites Accessible
At a time when accessibility in apps and websites matters more than ever, Evinced is a new debugging tool that helps developers achieve just that:https://www.computerworld.com/article/3610333/apple-friendly-debugger-helps-make-apps-and-websites-accessible.html
➜ Podcasts
1) Braillecast | Notetaking: Taking Notes for Yourself
March 2nd 2021 | Led by Holly Scott-Gardner, this session looked at how to take effective notes in braille for your own personal use. We covered increasing your speed when note taking, ways to organise your notes and the tools that you may wish to use:https://www.braillecast.com/podcast/
2) Damashe and Michael, Just Talking Tech 67 | Surge Protection ++
March 2nd 2021https://yourownpay.com/dm67/
3) Hadley Presents | Low Vision Support Groups
March 5th 2021 | Support groups can be a great way to connect with others who "get it." Listen in as we chat with low vision support group leaders Lynndah Lahey and Judy Davis describe how their groups are run and what their members get out of them:https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/low-vision-support-groups?utm_source=Learners&utm_campaign=c77cac07ee-hadleypresents-ep28-sf_03-05-2021&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_d1babd3418-c77cac07ee-52499638&mc_cid=c77cac07ee&mc_eid=8997daa19d
4) Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther 20 | Let's Go Skating - Blind!
March 5th 2021 | Ms Lilly has some schooling for us on when ice first took hold on planet earth, and how often our big beautiful blue planet freezes up and becomes a snowball. Lilly also found great examples of blind ice skaters who compete in dance, and I reach out to my friend Kevin Frost, the world's fastest blind speed skater, for his tips on speed skating blind and deaf. To wrap things up, I offer up some tips of my own on skating blind:https://www.stitcher.com/show/outdoors-with-lawrence-gunther/episode/episode-20-ice-and-skating-blind-82163772
5) That Real Blind Tech Show 22 | A Conversation with Dr. Bryan Wolynski, Your Not Just A Giant Eye!
March 6th 2021 | Brian and Ed welcome in Dr. Bryan Wolynski, a good friend of theirs to discuss his career, their experiences at CSUN 2020, and what they are expecting from the all virtual CSUN 2021 starting on March 6, 2021. Bryan goes in to detail about all of the Orcam devices, and the differences between them. We have a frank discussion about how doctors approach giving a patient a life altering visual diagnosis, the state of technology for the blind and visually impaired in 2021 and eye doctors knowledge of available technology:https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-22-a-conversation-with-dr-bryan-wolynski-your-not-just-a-giant-eye
6) Blind Android Users 13 | Every Android Phone Has A Launcher
March 7th 2021 | This episode includes an iInterview with the developer of shortcut maker, an android app that lets you add a shortcut of what ever you want to your home screen. Discussion about the home screen and launchers demo of pixel launcher and Hyperion launcher. A guide/ demo on how to uninstall Samsung talkback and install Google TalkBack on any Samsung phone running 1 ui 3.0 and higher:https://blindandroidusers.com
7) Say My Meme 6 | Celebrity Memes
March 8th 2021 | From Beyonce to Snoop Dogg, celebrities capture our imagination and serve as relatable avatars for our own emotional journey. To put it simply: they make funny faces and do funny things to make us laugh. That's why celebrity memes are some of the most shared, most recycled genre of meme out there. This week we start with some of the most notable celebrities you might see crop up in memes: Snoop Dogg, Beyonce, Leo DiCaprio and more..https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/say-my-meme/id1554583264
8) Eyes on Success 2111 | Using Tech Skills for Work and Pleasure
March 10th 2021 | In a previous episode, hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talked with Pranav Lal about the vOICe system that he has been using that enables the blind to "see" the environment around them by using sound. This week they talk with him about his career as a cybersecurity consultant and how he continues to make use of the vOICe system in daily life:https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202111.htm
9) Blind Tech Guys 76 | TalkBack 9.1 Tips And Tricks
On this week's episode of the pod, Nimer delves further into Talkback 9.1, providing many helpful tips and tricks, Nimer also demonstrates Network Manager Pro and Kirt shows off a great new voice feature using Talkback 9.1:March 10th 2021
https://www.blindtechguys.com/76
➜ Webinars and Training Courses (Upcoming)
1) ACB Community Call: Vispero Presentation | Discussing the Scratchpad Feature of The Focus Braille Displays
March 11th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 8PM GMT | Join Ron Miller to discuss the Focus Scratch Pad, Where, How, and Why? Sponsored by Vispero https://www.freedomscientific.com/. | One tap mobile: +13126266799,,88275409010# | Phone: (312) 626-6799 📱️ | Webinar ID: 882 7540 9010 | Passcode: 974968 | Join the webinar:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88275409010?pwd=dlZ1VFozQWlEcHZtSXBBZ25EQzRZdz09
2) ACB Community Call: Apple Presentation - What About The Mac?
March 12th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 8PM GMT | With all this talk about how awesome Apple products really are, should I consider a Mac? Join Apple Teacher Matt Vollbrecht and his team as they attempt to answer this question, by exploring situations in which you might need a Mac, and situations where you definitely won't. Also, learn about the various Mac models available today. Sponsored by The Tech Juggernaut at https://ttjtech.net/. | One tap mobile: +13126266799,,84439933345# | Phone: (312) 626-6799 📱️ | Webinar ID: 844 3993 3345 | Join the webinar:https://acb-org.zoom.us/j/84439933345
3) Wayaround App on Maryland Technology Group Call
March 13th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | The Wayaround App. Makes labeling with a smartphone easy. To hear about this app, dial into the program by calling (319) 527-4994 📱️:https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
4) Free iPad Course for VoiceOver Geared Toward Middle School / High School Students
March 16th 2021 | This six-session course invites students to come and play games using their iPad with VoiceOver. Through game-based learning, students will learn and reinforce VoiceOver specific skills and explore apps helpful to the VoiceOver user. Through scavenger hunts, murder mysteries, and escape rooms, students will make friendships and connect with peers who are also VoiceOver users. Learn more about this and other California School for the Blind Short Courses here:https://www.csb-cde.ca.gov/outreach/shortcourses/index.aspx
5) Microsoft Outlook with JAWS in Conjunction with a PC, Focus Braille Display, and the ElBraille
March 17th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | From Access Ingenuity. Here is the Zoom link to attend:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85689955338?pwd=TlU1NTBhdUNFUlZCNGZnMDVscXM4dz09
6) Free Training Course from Humanware and the California School for the Blind (CSB) | BrailleNote Touch Plus Notetaker for Teachers and Professionals
March 17th 2021 | 3:30 PM PT, 4:30 PM MT, 5:30 PM CT, 6:30 PM ET, 11:30 PM GMT | Presented by: Rachel Feinberg, West Coast Blindness Product Specialist on behalf of HumanWare Technologies. The very full agenda will cover: Introduction and orientation to the BrailleNote Touch Plus. Who benefits from use of the BrailleNote. Skills needed to prepare for BrailleNote use. Efficiency of the BrailleNote with built-in keyboard short-cuts as a "braille first" product. Use of BrailleNote vs. iPad with braille display. Overview of Google Drive/Google Docs. How to upload files to Google Drive/download files from Google Drive for editing in KeyWord. Explore EasyReader+. Download books from Bookshare and navigate contents. Web browsing using Chrome . Discussion of remote viewing of the BrailleNote screen including TeamViewer as well as other screen-sharing options. Overview of KeyMath. Q and A throughout training. Register here:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc2LZDZ1PQVsGVFyP9G-CI_icKbizjOvzok-Vis9lGlZgOmqQ/viewform
7) Envision App Webinar Q&A
March 17th 2021 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Register at:https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_HyLgTVMgRHiKaVDqFDryRQ?timezone_id=Europe%2FLondon
8) Training Course from Hartgen Consultancy | Winning Teams! Using Microsoft Teams with JAWS for Windows
March 17th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | Cost: £150.00 / $205.00 USD | Four training sessions starting on Wednesday, March 17th 2021 and then weekly each Wednesday thereafter. If you cannot make a live session, you will have access to the recording of it shortly after. Requirements, registration and what you will receive available here:http://www.hartgen.org/teams
9) Guidelights and Gadgets Product Demonstrations for The Florida Outreach Center for the Blind
March 18th 2021 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Zoom meeting. | This workshop is committed to describing and demonstrating unique products within three categories: gadgets and electronics, leather bags and pouches of all types and "all things dog" for handlers and their companions. One tap mobile: +13126266799,,#,# | Direct Dial: +1 (312) 626-6799 📱️ | Meeting ID: 561 642 0005 | If the system prompts you to enter a participant code just press the pound key. Join at:https://zoom.us/j/5616420005
10) Free Training Course from Humanware and the California School for the Blind (CSB) | BrailleNote Touch Plus Notetaker for Students, Teachers and Families.
March 31st 2021 | 3:30 PM PT, 4:30 PM MT, 5:30 PM CT, 6:30 PM ET, 11:30 PM GMT | Presented by: Rachel Feinberg, West Coast Blindness Product Specialist on behalf of HumanWare Technologies. The format of the training will be primarily question and answer.https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdzzuwVaRWiWtgsBmN_XPYsihhJ8b_vXAc8eYCV19CJrwNfcQ/viewform
11) TravelAbility Launches the World's First Pitchfest Featuring Adaptive Technology + Products from 9 Countries
April 1st 2021 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | TravelAbility LaunchPad will be the first of four TravelAbility events in 2021. TravelAbility is sponsored by Google, Expedia, AccessiBe and Design Sensory. Think "Shark Tank" at the intersection of travel and disability. LaunchPad will be promoted internationally to provide exposure to prospective investors, grant funders and travel industry professionals that may become possible distribution partners. Registration is $195. Check out the agenda and register here:http://travelability.net/agenda/
12) Microsoft 2021 Ability Summit
May 5th & 6th 2021 | The Microsoft Ability Summit is a two-day, free digital event experience that brings together people with disabilities, allies, and accessibility professionals to Imagine, Build, Include, and Empower the future of disability inclusion and accessibility. We encourage all to join and spread the word. Registration will open in March. In the meantime, learn more and check out the Ability Summit 2021 announcement video here:https://sway.office.com/Dbr2Uz14PIn31Dq8
13) National Federation of the Blind 2021 National Convention
July 6th 2021 through July 10th 2021 | Register for free to attend the largest gathering of blind people and take advantage of the opportunity to network with thousands of blind role models, connect with leaders in the field of blindness, attend presentations on a variety of empowering topics, and learn about the latest in technology and innovation. Learn more and register here:https://www.nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention
➜ Job Announcements
1) Virtual Career Fair For People With Disabilities
March 23rd 2021 | Are you a person with a disability, looking for a career opportunity or internship? This Virtual Career Fair is free for career seekers with disabilities to attend. Experienced professionals, recent college graduates and college students with disabilities meet online with employers across the nation to discuss competitive career opportunities. Candidates are invited to interact with employers via chat sessions. Learn more and register here:https://www.careereco.com/Fair/EventDetails?fairId=6a058ac1-e837-4b18-a883-ac4e0161fe77
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Overwatch Community Rallies Around Blind Player After Stunning Highlight
For many players the Overwatch community has become their family. After a legally blind player saved their team from defeat, Overwatch fandom has rallied behind them:https://www.dexerto.com/overwatch/overwatch-community-rallies-around-blind-player-after-stunning-highlight-1525220/
2) How YouTube's New Audio Feature is Helping Ubisoft Make its Trailers More Accessible
YouTube's new audio track feature offers companies a new option for making their videos more accessible to the visually impaired. The feature is still in beta, and only available to a small number of channels, but it allows for multiple audio tracks to be added to a video:https://www.techradar.com/news/how-youtubes-new-audio-feature-is-helping-ubisoft-make-its-trailers-more-accessible
3) Building the Bionic Eye... With Car Tech?
Dr. Michael Beyeler and his team at UC Santa Barbara are prepping a smart prosthesis that provides cues to the visually impaired, much like a computer vision system talks to a self-driving car:https://uk.pcmag.com/news/131896/building-the-bionic-eyewith-car-tech
➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: Brailiant BI 14 Portable Braille Display
Listing Date: 2/25/2021 | Price: $375.00 USD | Condition: Gently used. | Description: This display has a new main board , and a new battery. Comes with Executive Products Carrying Case. I will ship with in the Continental US. | Contact: jimoneill1@verizon.net 📧️ or (215) 317-9877 📱️ |2) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
APHConnectCenter has resources to help blind and low vision people thrive. Share the Reader's Digest Getting Started with Vision Loss Guide with people who need to know about living with vision loss.
https://visionaware.org/
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The wait is over! A redefined family of Brailliant refreshable Braille displays has arrived! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series will help you stay connected, download books from many participating online libraries and share information easily with your peers. You will enjoy the intuitive, seamless user experience of KeySoft Lite, the HumanWare flagship accessibility suite designed to make you more productive. Including the Brailliant BI 40X and the Brailliant BI 20X, this is the Brailliant idea you need!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/070120211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Deliver a positive experience to all of your customers by making your self-service stations accessible for all levels of sight. Choose SuperNova Kiosks and empower people with partial sight to explore the screen in comfort and provide complete access for people who are blind. Learn more about SuprNova Kiosks at:
https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/supernova-kiosks
Sponsor Since: January 28th 2021
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Phone (USA & Canada): +1 (866) 797-5921 📱️
Phone (UK, Europe & Asia): +44 01905 754577 📱️
Phone (Nordic & Baltic Contries): +46 0515 82175 📱️
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of GuideConnect
GuideConnect Trial
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of SuperNova
SuperNova Trial
About: Dolphin Computer Access offers a wide array of solutions for students, people in the workforce, and at home who are blind, visually impaired or have dyslexia. Each product is purposefully designed to help users, with varying levels of technology experience, do everyday things EASILY on computers and tablets. Founded in 1986 and located in Worcester England, Dolphin has grown to become a global market leader worldwide.
Sponsor: Vorail
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
24-hour peer-to-peer tech support in voice, and much more. Get answers to just about anything you need to know, whether it is blindness related or not, and make incredible friends. Follow who you like, mute those you don't. We're not alone in this blindness thing. Ask-alls range from "How to do X from an accessibility standpoint?" to "What do you keep in your bed other than yourself?" to "What word would you use to describe 2020? to "What word to describe your hopes for 2021?". Vorail is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
https://vorail.com/toptechtidbits
Sponsor Since: January 21st 2021
Website: https://www.vorail.com/toptechtidbits/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Vorail for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Vorail for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Mission: Vorail is the only platform in the world for the low vision and blind community where everybody can join conversations by voice on equal footing. Every day members of the Vorail community create ask-alls (questions) about life (news, health, technology, religion, sports and more) that allow us to see the world differently, and connect in a way that is deeper than 'liking' a photo. Vorail is an audio-only experience, voice is the window into a human soul. It does not matter if you are tall, short, wide, thin, white, or black when nobody sees your picture. Without the visuals, what counts is who you are, the person inside. That is the mission of Vorail, to create an extended family where we are judged for who we are, not what we look like.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Accessible Pharmacy, the new, home delivery pharmacy with a blind founder, is bringing its full range of support and services to Be My Eyes. Users of the Be My Eyes app can now call Accessible Pharmacy directly to get support with medication, medical devices, and even home delivery COVID testing. With a fully trained and discreet pharmacy staff on call from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Pacific, Accessible Pharmacy is the new way for blind and low vision consumers to get an easy, frictionless pharmacy experience. Call today — and you'll never have to take an Uber to the drugstore again.
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Revolution Cane Tip: Standard Roller Tip: $14.50 | Locator Dots: Small Pack of 6 (Clear or Orange): $2.00 | NFB Metal Cane Tip: $3.00 | TMAP - On Demand Tactile Street | Map (set of two maps): $25.00 | Ambutech Aluminum Folding Cane: $35.00 | NFB Chris Park Telescoping Cane: $45.00 | BoldWriter 20 Pen (Individual or 6-pack): $2.00 | Bump Dots: Mixed (50 count): $7.00 | Braille Apple Catalina VoiceOver Guide OSX 10.15 (3 volumes) - Latest Manual: $52.00 | SpeedDots iPhone Tactile Screen Protector, Phone Layout: $12.00 | NFB Chris Park 7-Piece Folding Cane: $50.00 | Visit https://adaptations.org/ to learn more today!
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Code JumperTM is a fully accessible and inclusive computer coding innovation, originally designed by Microsoft® and developed by APH (for Windows, Chromebook, and Android devices)! With Code Jumper, students across the vision spectrum can learn the basics of computer programming and computational thinking by tactually creating computer code that can tell stories and make music. Learn more at:
https://www.aph.org/product/code-jumper/.
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Our new Non-Contact Infrared Talking Thermometer is by far the most consistent and accurate one available; and also new BP meter; demos http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ $50 each. New Evo 10 Media and Daisy Players back in stock, no BARD, but lots more, even an audio editor, Ivona voices, $230.00 w/tutorial. New adjustable leather phone case, and many other bag specials! | Join us for a presentation: Florida Outreach Center March 18, 2021 at 11:00 AM EST | https://zoom.us/j/5616420005 | Or call: +1 312 626 6799 📱️ | Meeting ID: 5616420005 | Then press pound key. | Call Barry: (617) 969-7500 📱️; bscheur@scheur.com 📧️
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
If you're like me, you probably have more things to plug into your computer than available ports. That's why we've now added the Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub. Plug it into your laptop and you will get 3 USB ports, SD and Micro SD card slots, a USBC charging port, and an HDMI video port. It's available now for just $29.95:
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: John Panarese
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
John Panarese, world-renowned Apple Trainer and Consultant is at it again! He is offering new and exciting courses for the Spring! Not too late to register and cash in on the Winter offerings as well! Visit https://www.macfortheblind.com for more information.
Director, https://www.MacForTheBlind.com
Authorized Apple Business Affiliate
Apple Certified Support Professional
Apple Certified Trainer
Assistive Technology Consultant
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://www.macfortheblind.com/ 🌐
Donate Course Time: https://donorbox.org/macfortheblind ❤
Email: john@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: Donna Jodhan
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Author, Donna Jodhan Publications
President, Sterling Creations
President, Barrier Free Canada / Canada sans Barrieres
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://donnajodhan.com/ 🌐
Donate: https://donorbox.org/author-donna-jodhan ❤
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: Dean Martineau
➜ 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 if interested at:
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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.
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, March 4, 2021 - Volume 797 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, March 4, 2021 - Volume 797
The Week's News in Access Technologyhttps://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Start Looking Ahead to Better Days With Courses From MacForTheBlind!
Are you ready for Spring? There's no time like the present to start looking ahead to better days, and this is exactly what John Panarese is doing. You see John has started his Winter / Spring course offerings and there's still time to take advantage of his courses. Take a moment to refresh your knowledge when it comes to your Mac and iOS devices. John offers tutorials, complete courses, and discounts on his offerings. John is a world-renowned Apple consultant and trainer and he uses his experience to help you get closer to the world of Apple technology. He has years of experience under his belt so no excuse and no time to waste taking advantage of these incredible deals:
https://donorbox.org/macfortheblind.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) How to Fix Windows 10 File Explorer Not Responding: (8.4% of all clicks.)https://helpdeskgeek.com/windows-10/how-to-fix-windows-10-file-explorer-not-responding/
B.) JAWS Power Tip: Using Temporary Place Markers to Copy, Cut, Delete or Just About Anything Else You Might Want: (8.3% of all clicks.)
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/9.html
C.) JAWS with Microsoft Teams Power Tip: Sending and Receiving Chats with JAWS: (5.9% of all clicks.)
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/7.html
D.) New Features in JAWS, ZT, and Fusion: (5.8% of all clicks.)
https://webfriendlyhelp.com/new-features-in-jaws-zt-and-fusion/
E.) Supersense Introduces Super Lidar: (5.0% of all clicks.)
https://www.supersense.app/post/super-lidar-the-first-step-forward
2) Top Tech Tidbits Welcomes New Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter
Please join us in extending a very big thank you and welcome aboard to our newest sponsor, APH ConnectCenter. If you missed this opportunity to join us as a sponsor we encourage you to keep your name on our waiting list and we will notify you again the moment another sponsorship package becomes available. APH ConnectCenter replaces Sprint IP Relay, whom we would also like to thank for their support. The mission of the APH ConnectCenter is to offer curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives. Learn more today at:https://aphconnectcenter.org/
3) JAWS with Microsoft Teams Power Tip: Opening A File Attachment From A Channel
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/8.html4) JAWS Power Tip: Create Row and Column Headers for Ranges that Read Automatically for JAWS Users
https://doccenter.freedomscientific.com/doccenter/doccenter/rs25c51746a0cc/2013-09-25_ExcelAndWordHeaders/02_HeadersInExcel.htm5) ZoomText Power Tip: Zoom In and Out Faster with Favorite Zoom Levels
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/11.html6) The 10 Breakthrough Technologies of 2021
Every year, for the last 20 years, MIT Technology Review has compiled an annual selection of the year's most important technologies. Here's what they've got on their radar for 2021:https://www.technologyreview.com/2021/02/24/1014369/10-breakthrough-technologies-2021/
7) WSU Professor, Colleagues Work on Creating Comic Book App for the Visually Impaired
They hope to have an app on the App Store and Google Play by next year:https://www.ksn.com/news/ksn-extra/wsu-professor-colleagues-work-on-creating-comic-book-app-for-the-visually-impaired/
8) 6 Clever Ways to Use the Windows Command Prompt
Wired offers this article which demystifies a venerable Windows feature:https://www.wired.com/story/6-windows-command-prompt-clever-tips/?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social&utm_brand=wired&mbid=social_twitter&utm_social-type=owned
9) Microsoft's "Power Automate Desktop" Is Now Free and Can Do Your Work for You
This feature acts as a macro program which doesn't require you to learn any specific language to use it:https://www.reviewgeek.com/72556/microsofts-power-automate-desktop-is-now-free-and-can-do-your-work-for-you/
10) Module 7 of JAWS Training for Teachers and AT Instructors
This one is called "Using Surf's Up as a Teaching Tool." It provides a review of surfing the internet with JAWS and shows you how to navigate Surf's Up, access web page elements, navigate web pages, use JAWS Navigation Quick Keys, fill out forms and read tables:https://blog.freedomscientific.com/module-7-of-jaws-training-for-teachers-and-at-instructors/
11) NV Access In-Process | February 26th 2021
Here is a lot of information about the latest NVDA release among other things:https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-26th-february-2021/
12) How to Check Your PC's Full Specifications on Windows 10
Windows Central describes five tools for knowing what's in your computer:https://www.windowscentral.com/how-check-your-computer-full-specifications-windows-10?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+wmexperts+%28Windows+Central%29
13) 12 Things You Didn't Know You Could Do in Google Chrome
Dean Martineau is a big fan of the OmniBox, for instance:https://gizmodo.com/12-things-you-didnt-know-you-could-do-in-google-chrome-1846373120
14) Google Adds Voice Commands to Android TalkBack Screen Reader to Improve Accessibility
Google has added voice commands and other interactive features to the TalkBack screen reader for Android. TalkBack helps people with impaired vision use Android devices, and Google is implementing the new functions based on requests from the blind and low vision community:https://voicebot.ai/2021/02/25/google-adds-voice-commands-to-android-talkback-screen-reader-to-improve-accessibility/
15) Live Caption Now Available on Google Chrome on Desktops
Whether you're hard of hearing, deaf, in a loud environment, or forget to bring your headphones, Live Caption automatically transcribes any audio coming from your phone for you. We long knew that Live Caption is on its way to Chrome as well, and we just spotted it working on the stable Chrome 88 release - you just need to activate a flag:https://www.androidpolice.com/2021/02/25/live-caption-is-now-available-on-google-chrome-on-desktops/
16) Applevis Unlimited | What's New and Noteworthy for February 2021
This is the latest in the monthly series which highlights what's new and noteworthy on the AppleVis website:https://www.applevis.com/newsletter/applevis-unlimited-whats-new-and-noteworthy-february-2021
17) Alexa Skills That Are Actually Fun and Useful
Sure, you can add items to your shopping list, check the weather, and get random trivia. Now let's take your Echo to the next level:https://www.wired.com/story/alexa-skills-that-are-actually-fun-and-useful/
18) Switching From JAWS To NVDA
The purpose of this guide, which continues to receive updates, is to assist users of JAWS (Job Access With Speech) in switching to the open-source screen reader NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access) with ease. It assumes prior knowledge of JAWS and that you are proficient in its use. It is not intended to be a replacement of the included user guide, but as a means to make NVDA seem less daunting:https://github.com/nvaccess/nvda-community/wiki/SwitchingFromJawsToNVDA
19) The Ultimate Guide to Mac Backup in 2021
This article is incredibly thorough and may well live up to its name:https://thesweetbits.com/blog/ultimate-guide-to-mac-backup/
20) VoiceOver? Or NVDA? Which is Better?
Draw your own conclusions and listen to theirs in this opine from iphonegeeks:https://iphonegeeks.com/nvda-vs-voiceover-which-is-better/
21) Street Fighter V's Latest Patch Broke a Major Feature for Visually Impaired Players
A recent patch to Street Fighter V forces the game's audio into mono, which makes it nearly unplayable for visually impaired players:https://www.cbr.com/street-fighter-v-audio-blind/
22) Zoom Getting Automatic Closed Captions for All Users — How to Get Early Access
Zoom's free tier is getting a big boost with automatic closed captions:https://www.tomsguide.com/news/zoom-is-getting-a-killer-update-to-make-life-easier
23) Introducing the "Outdoors With Lawrence Gunther" Podcast Series
This AMI Audio original podcast is directed toward youth living with vision loss, and is meant to inform and inspire such youth to connect with nature. Lawrence Gunther is a life-long outdoor enthusiast and is totally blind himself. He has another popular podcast dealing with fish and fishing and he produces a lot of film and TV content. So if you are a nature enthusiast, please be sure to check out "Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther" for suggestions and tips for getting off the sidewalk and connecting with nature with low or no vision. 19 episodes currently available:https://lawrencegunther.com/
24) MiniVision2 Big Button Cell Phone For Individuals Who are Blind or Visually Impaired
A couple months ago we covered the BlindShell Classic, which is a cellphone made specifically for individuals with visual impairments. If you or a loved one are in the market for a new phone that caters to individuals with visual impairments, another available option is the MiniVision2 Cell Phone:https://www.eastersealstech.com/2021/02/23/minivision2-cell-phone-for-visually-impaired-blind/
25) MantisTM Q40 & ChameleonTM 20 Release Notes
New features and fixes:https://www.aph.org/release-notes/
26) Apple Stores Offering Free Sign Language Interpreter Appointments
Apple is now offering prescheduled support from sign language interpreters at hundreds of its retail stores in nearly a dozen countries. The service is provided to customers by appointment at no cost:https://9to5mac.com/2021/02/25/apple-retail-store-sign-language-interpreter-appointments/
➜ Podcasts
1) Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther 19 | Greenhouse Gases, Wind Power, Blind Sailing and Lake Superior's Sleeping Giant
February 19th 2021 | In this episode Lawrence talks Lake Superior and it's Sleeping Giant. Why the lake is changing and what we can do. Also, tips and stories about sailing blind:https://www.stitcher.com/show/outdoors-with-lawrence-gunther/episode/episode-19-greenhouse-gasses-wind-power-blind-sailing-and-lake-superiors-sleeping-giant-81790430
2) Sight and Sound Technology Podcast | Scribe for Windows
February 25th 2021 | Hear from the Sight and Sound Technology podcast about Pneuma Solutions and their product line:https://pneumasolutions.com/mike-and-matt-on-sight-and-sound-technology-podcast/
3) That Real Blind Tech Show 21 | Conversation with Niv Shah Developer for Ottoneu Fantasy Baseball
February 27th 2021 | Brian welcomes Niv Shah, Founder and Developer of Ottoneu Fantasy Baseball, a dynasty baseball format with more of an advanced analytics approach to fantasy. Niv discusses the format of the game, where the unique name to the game comes from, and his role with Ottoneu:https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-21-a-conversation-with-niv-shah-developer-for-ottoneu-fantasy-baseball
4) Blind Android Users 12 | Android Basics Revisited & Enlightened by Zen UI
February 28th 2021https://blindandroidusers.com
5) Blind Tech Guys 75 | A Deep Dive Into Dolphin ScreenReader
On this episode Nimer demonstrated the Dolphin ScreenReader, Marco ran through how to use Samsung Health and Kirt showed off Hotspot, plus they welcome a special guest to the show:March 2nd 2021
https://www.blindtechguys.com/
6) Eyes on Success 2110 | Some Favorite Tips of the Week
March 3rd 2021 | Every episode of Eyes On Success starts with a "Tip of the Week". These tips offer suggestions from people we interview about anything from the benefits of participating in sports to the importance of learning blindness skills. This week hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey share some of their favorite tips from the past 10 years with our listeners:https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202110.htm
➜ Webinars and Training Courses (Upcoming)
1) American Foundation for the Blind Centennial Gala Celebration
March 4th 2021 | 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 12AM GMT, 3/5 | The Art of Inclusion: AFB100 Concert & Celebration. An award-winning lineup of performers and other special guests. Available to stream via https://www.afb.org/ArtOfInclusion. Advance registration suggested at https://www.afb.org/100signup. Learn more:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/american-foundation-for-the-blind-announces-centennial-gala-celebration-301230831.html
2) Introduction to WeWalk
March 4th 2021 | 2AM PT, 3AM MT, 4AM CT, 5AM ET, 10AM GMT | This demo and discussion of the WeWalk Cane comes from Sight and Sound Technologies and SeaScape in the UK. Register here:https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_fyiQPZKWQPi7TVtEgOWlMg
3) Intracortical Visual Prosthesis Project Clinical Trial | Informational Session and Recruitment
March 9th 2021 | 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 12AM GMT, 3/10 | Zoom meeting. Link to Zoom session will be sent following registration. Conducted By: Illinois Institute of Technology & The Chicago Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired. | Learn from the researchers about an experimental device intended to restore visual perception for individuals who are blind. Learn about the intracortical visual prosthesis device, the study, expectations, possible risks and benefits, and post implant requirements. Interested individuals will receive contact information to speak with study personnel after the educational session is over. For more information and to reserve your spot please contact: Kelsey Stipp at (312) 567-5304 📱️, or ICVP@iit.edu 📧️. For more details:https://chicagolighthouse.org/icvp/
4) Wayaround App on Maryland Technology Group Call
March 13th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | The Wayaround App. Makes labeling with a smartphone easy. To hear about this app, dial into the program by calling (319) 527-4994 📱️:https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
5) Free iPad Course for VoiceOver Geared Toward Middle School / High School Students
March 16th 2021 | This six-session course invites students to come and play games using their iPad with VoiceOver. Through game-based learning, students will learn and reinforce VoiceOver specific skills and explore apps helpful to the VoiceOver user. Through scavenger hunts, murder mysteries, and escape rooms, students will make friendships and connect with peers who are also VoiceOver users. Learn more about this and other California School for the Blind Short Courses here:https://www.csb-cde.ca.gov/outreach/shortcourses/index.aspx
6) Free Training Course from Humanware and the California School for the Blind (CSB) | BrailleNote Touch Plus Notetaker for Teachers and Professionals
March 17th 2021 | 12:30 PM PT, 1:30 PM MT, 2:30 PM CT, 3:30 PM ET, 8:30 PM GMT | Presented by: Rachel Feinberg, West Coast Blindness Product Specialist on behalf of HumanWare Technologies. The very full agenda will cover: Introduction and orientation to the BrailleNote Touch Plus. Who benefits from use of the BrailleNote. Skills needed to prepare for BrailleNote use. Efficiency of the BrailleNote with built-in keyboard short-cuts as a "braille first" product. Use of BrailleNote vs. iPad with braille display. Overview of Google Drive/Google Docs. How to upload files to Google Drive/download files from Google Drive for editing in KeyWord. Explore EasyReader+. Download books from Bookshare and navigate contents. Web browsing using Chrome . Discussion of remote viewing of the BrailleNote screen including TeamViewer as well as other screen-sharing options. Overview of KeyMath. Q and A throughout training. Register here:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc2LZDZ1PQVsGVFyP9G-CI_icKbizjOvzok-Vis9lGlZgOmqQ/viewform
7) Training Course from Hartgen Consultancy | Winning Teams! Using Microsoft Teams with JAWS for Windows
March 17th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | Cost: £150.00 / $205.00 USD | Four training sessions starting on Wednesday, March 17th 2021 and then weekly each Wednesday thereafter. If you cannot make a live session, you will have access to the recording of it shortly after. Requirements, registration and what you will receive available here:http://www.hartgen.org/teams
8) Free Training Course from Humanware and the California School for the Blind (CSB) | BrailleNote Touch Plus Notetaker for Students, Teachers and Families.
March 31st 2021 | 12:30 PM PT, 1:30 PM MT, 2:30 PM CT, 3:30 PM ET, 8:30 PM GMT | Presented by: Rachel Feinberg, West Coast Blindness Product Specialist on behalf of HumanWare Technologies. The format of the training will be primarily question and answer.https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdzzuwVaRWiWtgsBmN_XPYsihhJ8b_vXAc8eYCV19CJrwNfcQ/viewform
9) TravelAbility Launches the World's First Pitchfest Featuring Adaptive Technology + Products from 9 Countries
April 1st 2021 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | TravelAbility LaunchPad will be the first of four TravelAbility events in 2021. TravelAbility is sponsored by Google, Expedia, AccessiBe and Design Sensory. Think "Shark Tank" at the intersection of travel and disability. LaunchPad will be promoted internationally to provide exposure to prospective investors, grant funders and travel industry professionals that may become possible distribution partners. Registration is $195. Check out the agenda and register here:http://travelability.net/agenda/
10) Microsoft 2021 Ability Summit
May 5th & 6th 2021 | The Microsoft Ability Summit is a two-day, free digital event experience that brings together people with disabilities, allies, and accessibility professionals to Imagine, Build, Include, and Empower the future of disability inclusion and accessibility. We encourage all to join and spread the word. Registration will open in March. In the meantime, learn more and check out the Ability Summit 2021 announcement video here:https://sway.office.com/Dbr2Uz14PIn31Dq8
11) National Federation of the Blind 2021 National Convention
July 6th 2021 through July 10th 2021 | Register for free to attend the largest gathering of blind people and take advantage of the opportunity to network with thousands of blind role models, connect with leaders in the field of blindness, attend presentations on a variety of empowering topics, and learn about the latest in technology and innovation. Learn more and register here:https://www.nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention
➜ Job Announcements
1) Membership Services Administrative Assistant | American Council of the Blind
Location: Remote (Work from home.) Compensation: $40,000 Annual Salary.https://acb.org/jobs#MembershipServices-Admin
2) Virtual Career Fair For People With Disabilities
March 23rd 2021 | Are you a person with a disability, looking for a career opportunity or internship? This Virtual Career Fair is free for career seekers with disabilities to attend. Experienced professionals, recent college graduates and college students with disabilities meet online with employers across the nation to discuss competitive career opportunities. Candidates are invited to interact with employers via chat sessions. Learn more and register here:https://www.careereco.com/Fair/EventDetails?fairId=6a058ac1-e837-4b18-a883-ac4e0161fe77
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) COVID Vaccine Websites Create Inequity for the Blind
Many COVID vaccination registration and information websites at the federal, state and local levels violate disability rights laws, hindering the ability of blind people to sign up for a potentially lifesaving vaccine, a KHN investigation has found:https://www.modernhealthcare.com/safety-quality/covid-vaccine-websites-violate-disability-laws-create-inequity-blind
2) It's Impossible for Blind People to Go Supermarket Shopping — That Needs to Change
Carley Gregory, who lost her eyesight aged 10, has started a petition to get manufacturers to make changes, while the RNIB reveals how technology can improve accessibility:https://inews.co.uk/news/real-life/blind-partially-sighted-visually-impaired-braille-supermarkets-products-kelloggs-navilens-874323
3) Microsoft's Investments Make Xbox a Leader in Gaming Accessibility, and Others Should Follow
Recent updates and a new developer-friendly service make Microsoft the current leader in gaming accessibility:https://www.windowscentral.com/microsofts-investments-make-xbox-leader-gaming-accessibility
4) Can Technology Open Spaceflight to Disabled Astronauts?
The European Space Agency wants to make sure its new astronaut class is more diverse. But it will take redesigned gear to make space accessible to everybody:https://www.wired.com/story/can-technology-open-spaceflight-to-disabled-astronauts/
➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: Brailiant BI 14 Portable Braille Display
Listing Date: 2/25/2021 | Price: $375.00 USD | Condition: Gently used. | Description: This display has a new main board , and a new battery. Comes with Executive Products Carrying Case. I will ship with in the Continental US. | Contact: jimoneill1@verizon.net 📧️ or (215) 317-9877 📱️ |2) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: Humanware
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The wait is over! A redefined family of Brailliant refreshable Braille displays has arrived! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series will help you stay connected, download books from many participating online libraries and share information easily with your peers. You will enjoy the intuitive, seamless user experience of KeySoft Lite, the HumanWare flagship accessibility suite designed to make you more productive. Including the Brailliant BI 40X and the Brailliant BI 20X, this is the Brailliant idea you need!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/070120211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Deliver a positive experience to all of your customers by making your self-service stations accessible for all levels of sight. Choose SuperNova Kiosks and empower people with partial sight to explore the screen in comfort and provide complete access for people who are blind. Learn more about SuprNova Kiosks at:
https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/supernova-kiosks
Sponsor Since: January 28th 2021
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Phone (USA & Canada): +1 (866) 797-5921 📱️
Phone (UK, Europe & Asia): +44 01905 754577 📱️
Phone (Nordic & Baltic Contries): +46 0515 82175 📱️
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of GuideConnect
GuideConnect Trial
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of SuperNova
SuperNova Trial
About: Dolphin Computer Access offers a wide array of solutions for students, people in the workforce, and at home who are blind, visually impaired or have dyslexia. Each product is purposefully designed to help users, with varying levels of technology experience, do everyday things EASILY on computers and tablets. Founded in 1986 and located in Worcester England, Dolphin has grown to become a global market leader worldwide.
Sponsor: Vorail
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
24-hour peer-to-peer tech support in voice, and much more. Get answers to just about anything you need to know, whether it is blindness related or not, and make incredible friends. Follow who you like, mute those you don't. We're not alone in this blindness thing. Ask-alls range from "How to do X from an accessibility standpoint?" to "What do you keep in your bed other than yourself?" to "What word would you use to describe 2020? to "What word to describe your hopes for 2021?". Vorail is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
https://vorail.com/toptechtidbits
Sponsor Since: January 21st 2021
Website: https://www.vorail.com/toptechtidbits/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Vorail for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Vorail for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Mission: Vorail is the only platform in the world for the low vision and blind community where everybody can join conversations by voice on equal footing. Every day members of the Vorail community create ask-alls (questions) about life (news, health, technology, religion, sports and more) that allow us to see the world differently, and connect in a way that is deeper than 'liking' a photo. Vorail is an audio-only experience, voice is the window into a human soul. It does not matter if you are tall, short, wide, thin, white, or black when nobody sees your picture. Without the visuals, what counts is who you are, the person inside. That is the mission of Vorail, to create an extended family where we are judged for who we are, not what we look like.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Accessible Pharmacy, the new, home delivery pharmacy with a blind founder, is bringing its full range of support and services to Be My Eyes. Users of the Be My Eyes app can now call Accessible Pharmacy directly to get support with medication, medical devices, and even home delivery COVID testing. With a fully trained and discreet pharmacy staff on call from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Pacific, Accessible Pharmacy is the new way for blind and low vision consumers to get an easy, frictionless pharmacy experience. Call today — and you'll never have to take an Uber to the drugstore again.
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Revolution Cane Tip: Standard Roller Tip: $14.50 | Locator Dots: Small Pack of 6 (Clear or Orange): $2.00 | NFB Metal Cane Tip: $3.00 | TMAP - On Demand Tactile Street | Map (set of two maps): $25.00 | Ambutech Aluminum Folding Cane: $35.00 | NFB Chris Park Telescoping Cane: $45.00 | BoldWriter 20 Pen (Individual or 6-pack): $2.00 | Bump Dots: Mixed (50 count): $7.00 | Braille Apple Catalina VoiceOver Guide OSX 10.15 (3 volumes) - Latest Manual: $52.00 | SpeedDots iPhone Tactile Screen Protector, Phone Layout: $12.00 | NFB Chris Park 7-Piece Folding Cane: $50.00 | Visit https://adaptations.org/ to learn more today!
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Code JumperTM is a fully accessible and inclusive computer coding innovation, originally designed by Microsoft® and developed by APH (for Windows, Chromebook, and Android devices)! With Code Jumper, students across the vision spectrum can learn the basics of computer programming and computational thinking by tactually creating computer code that can tell stories and make music. Learn more at:
https://www.aph.org/product/code-jumper/.
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Customers say that our new Non-Contact Infrared Talking Thermometer is by far the most consistent, accurate unit available; check out our demo, as well our new BP meter http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ $50 each and with quantity discounts. Our new Evo 10 Media and Daisy Player with Internet and FM Radio, Podcatcher, audio editor, Ivona voices, and lots more; $230 with Mystic Access 10 hour tutorial. New adjustable size phone case, and many other bag specials! Call Barry: (617) 969-7500 📱️; bscheur@scheur.com 📧️.
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
If you're like me, you probably have more things to plug into your computer than available ports. That's why we've now added the Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub. Plug it into your laptop and you will get 3 USB ports, SD and Micro SD card slots, a USBC charging port, and an HDMI video port. It's available now for just $29.95:
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: John Panarese
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
COVID has brought us some very daunting challenges! But this has not stopped John Panarese from solving the great mystery! His technical offerings will help you to better understand and navigate the world of Apple devices! Visit https://macfortheblind.com/ to learn more today!
Director, https://www.MacForTheBlind.com
Authorized Apple Business Affiliate
Apple Certified Support Professional
Apple Certified Trainer
Assistive Technology Consultant
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://www.macfortheblind.com/ 🌐
Donate Course Time: https://donorbox.org/macfortheblind ❤
Email: john@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: Donna Jodhan
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Author, Donna Jodhan Publications
President, Sterling Creations
President, Barrier Free Canada / Canada sans Barrieres
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://donnajodhan.com/ 🌐
Donate: https://donorbox.org/author-donna-jodhan ❤
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: Dean Martineau
➜ 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 if interested at:
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: APH ConnectCenter
Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021
Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐
Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️
APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET
Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube
About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.
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|
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, February 25, 2021 - Volume 796 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, February 25, 2021 - Volume 796
The Week's News in Access Technologyhttps://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: APH's Accessible Coding, Programming, and Electronics Tools Are a 'Snap' for Students Who are Blind and Visually Impaired!
APH has made the following commercially available Elenco® products accessible with braille parts labels, and braille/large print instructions:
• Snap Circuits® Jr Access Kit teaches children about circuits, current, resistance, switches, motors and other basic electronics concepts. Its parts are durable, colorful, and easy to assemble into projects that illuminate, make sounds, and more!
• Snapino TM Access Kit is an introduction to the open-source Arduino® hardware-software coding environment. Combined with Snap Circuits Jr, you can design larger circuits with speech capabilities.
• Coming Soon! With RC Snap Rover ® Access Kit, users of all ages can enjoy creating rovers and other fun devices. Snap Circuits BRIC: Structures® Access Kit will have you building a wiring your BRIC structure with lights, sounds, moving parts, and 3-D Circuits.
Also part of our coding family, Code JumperTM takes block coding off the screen with brightly colored pods that physically create computer code that tells stories, cracks jokes, and plays music.
Learn about these and other science technology products by reading our STEM Products blog, and by visiting our website at: https://www.aph.org/8-stem-products-for-inclusive-classrooms/
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) How to Replace Siri with Google Assistant on iPhone, iPad: (8.0% of all clicks.)https://wccftech.com/how-to/how-to-replace-siri-with-google-assistant-on-iphone-ipad/
B.) Narrator for a Day: (7.4% of all clicks.)
https://technologyisawesome.com/2021/02/16/narrator-for-a-day/
C.) Calliope, More Than Just a Media Player: (6.5% of all clicks.)
https://www.nathantech.net/products/software/calliope.php
D.) JAWS Power Tip: Identifying The Address of a Link: (6.3% of all clicks.)
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/6.html
E.) What's New in JAWS 2021 Screen Reading Software: (6.1% of all clicks.)
https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/JAWS/JAWSWhatsNew#Enhancements
2) JAWS with Microsoft Teams Power Tip: Sending and Receiving Chats with JAWS
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/7.html3) JAWS Power Tip: Using Temporary Place Markers to Copy, Cut, Delete or Just About Anything Else You Might Want
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/9.html4) ZoomText Power Tip: Three Ways to Zoom In and Out
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/10.html5) New Features in JAWS, ZT, and Fusion
A recap of the features made available in the latest Freedom Scientific product updates:https://webfriendlyhelp.com/new-features-in-jaws-zt-and-fusion/
6) Demo of Upcoming Scientific Calculator
Listen to this 9-minute demo of a forthcoming accessible scientific calculator:https://nathantech.net/productdemo.php
7) How to Fix Windows 10 File Explorer Not Responding
If you sometimes encounter this annoyance, here are some ways to get around it:https://helpdeskgeek.com/windows-10/how-to-fix-windows-10-file-explorer-not-responding/
8) February 2021 AccessWorld
This issue includes "Access Essentials for Your iOS Device: Must-Haves for People with Visual Impairments," "Sight Tech Global: A New and Different Mainstream Accessibility Conference," "The Smarter Phone: BlindShell Classic Lite," and "Video Streaming Services, Part 1: Getting Started with Netflix for People with Visual Impairments."https://www.afb.org/aw/22/2
9) Stanford Study Into "Zoom Fatigue" Explains Why Video Chats Are So Tiring
A lot of us will relate to this information:https://newatlas.com/telecommunications/zoom-fatigue-video-exhaustion-tips-help-stanford/
10) Microsoft Teams or Zoom? A Salesman Offers His Stunning Verdict
This comes to us from ZDNet:https://www.zdnet.com/article/microsoft-teams-or-zoom-a-salesman-offers-his-stunning-verdict/
11) Android 12 Has Landed - Here's What We Know So Far
https://www.androidcentral.com/android-1212) Magnification In Android 12 Is How It Should Have Always Been
With Android 12 you can magnify a smaller, more precise section of the display. As opposed to the whole thing. Android 12 achieves this by employing a floating square that shows the magnified area. And you can drag this square around to easily magnify other parts of the screen:https://www.androidheadlines.com/2021/02/android-12-magnification-feature-accessibility-developer-preview-1.html
13) Foundation for Blind Children | Introducing The See It Our Way Podcast
We'd like to send a huge shout out to Matthew at the Foundation for Blind Children along with all of the students involved in the See It Our Way podcast. They currently have 21 podcasts available on a range of topics:https://anchor.fm/seeitourway
14) Virtual Conferences Aren't as Accessible as You Might Think
Scientific American lays bare the reality that while virtual conferences have some advantages for people with disabilites, they still have plenty of problems as well:https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/virtual-conferences-arent-as-accessible-as-you-might-think/
15) These 7 New Accessible Vehicles Let People with Disabilities Access Micromobility
If you live in New York City and use a manual wheelchair, you may soon be able to use the Lime app to order a free rental of an attachment that turns it into a power vehicle. The design is one of seven adaptive vehicles the micromobility company recently developed to make its services more accessible:https://www.fastcompany.com/90605847/these-7-new-accessible-vehicles-let-people-with-disabilities-access-micromobility
16) What's New in NVDA 2020.4
This release includes new Chinese Input methods, an update to Liblouis and the elements list (NVDA+f7) now works in focus mode. Context sensitive help is now available when pressing F1 in NVDA dialogs. Improvements to symbol pronunciation rules, speech dictionary, Braille message and skim reading. Bug fixes and improvements to Mail, Outlook, Teams, Visual Studio, Azure Data Studio, Foobar2000. On the web, there are improvements to Google Docs, and greater support for ARIA. Plus many other important bug fixes and improvements:https://www.nvaccess.org/files/nvda/releases/2020.4/nvda_2020.4_changes.html
17) Microsoft Offers New Accessibility Testing Service for PC and XBox Games
Microsoft aims to make the PC and Xbox more inclusive with a new in-house testing service that compares games to the newly expanded Xbox Accessibility Guidelines:https://techcrunch.com/2021/02/17/microsoft-offers-new-accessibility-testing-service-for-pc-and-xbox-games/
18) Supersense Introduces Super Lidar
This new and free app from Supersense is one of the first apps to use LiDAR technology to analyze space and detect obstacles that might pose a danger to blind and low vision users:https://www.supersense.app/post/super-lidar-the-first-step-forward
➜ Podcasts
1) Hadley Presents | Painting Blind
February 19th 2021 | World-renowned artist John Bramblitt describes how vision loss has shaped his painting and his life.https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts
2) Blind Android Users 11 | Android with a Prospective of a Low Vision User
February 24th 2021https://blindandroidusers.com
3) Blind Tech Guys | TalkBack 9.1 Is Here and Screen Readers Delight
Check out the episodes to learn about upcoming TalkBack 9.1, and for a comparison of the three Windows screen readers:February 24th 2021
https://www.blindtechguys.com/
4) Access Tech Watch-360 Podcast | Accessible Business as a Blind Black Male Entrepreneur
February 24th 2021 | Hear from an audio production professional on this black history episode:https://accesstechwatch360.podbean.com/e/black-history-special-with-byron-harden-accessible-business-as-a-blind-black-male-entrepreneur/
5) Eyes on Success 2109 | NaviLens School Kits
February 24th 2021 | Tim Fahlberg is a math and computer science teacher at the Wisconsin School for The Blind. Inspired by a previous episode of Eyes On Success about the NaviLens system for creating accessible signage, Tim gathered some students to expand on the idea. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with them about the NaviLens School Kit they produced and how it is used.https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202109.htm
➜ Webinars and Training Courses (Upcoming)
1) FSOpenLine | Freedom Scientific Global Call-In Show
February 25th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 8PM GMT | In this show, we will talk about: Support for native math equations in Microsoft Word, new keystrokes for quickly adjusting JAWS and system volume, and how to verify the source of a link in an email or on a web page using screen sensitive help. Join via Zoom or call in: United States: +1 646 876 9923 or +1 669 900 6833 | Australia: +61 (0) 2 8015 2088 or +61 (0) 8 7150 1149 | Canada: +1 647 558 0588 | Germany: +49 (0) 30 3080 6188 or +49 (0) 30 5679 5800 | Ireland: +353 (0) 1 691 7488 | New Zealand: +64 (0) 4 831 8959 or +64 (0) 9 801 1188 | South Africa: +27 87 551 7702 | United Kingdom: +44 (0) 20 3051 2874 or +44 (0) 20 3695 0088 | Meeting ID: 727-803-8000. Learn more:http://blog.freedomscientific.com/category/fscast/
2) Getting Your Label On
February 25th 2021 | 4:30PM PT, 5:30PM MT, 6:30PM CT, 7:30PM ET, 12:30 AM GMT, 2/26 | This month's free Mystic Access event takes a fresh look at the various methods for labeling various items. Here is the Zoom link:https://mysticaccess.zoom.us/j/83830999626?pwd=SURBVkFERlRQS0VRNkM5blVRdlZOZz09
3) Using The Focus Braille Display With iOS | ACB Community Call: Vispero Presentation
February 25th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 8PM GMT | One Tap Mobile: +13126266799,,88275409010# | Phone: (312) 626-6799 📱️ | Webinar ID: 882 7540 9010 | Passcode: 974968 | Join the webinar:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88275409010?pwd=dlZ1VFozQWlEcHZtSXBBZ25EQzRZdz09
4) Timecheck: Using The Apple Watch | ACB Community Call: Apple Presentation
February 26th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 8PM GMT | Join Apple Teacher Matt Vollbrecht and the TTJ Team as they explain how to use an Apple Watch with Voiceover. Learn how to select the right size Apple Watch for you, then learn about how to set it up with Voiceover. Learn how to view and change watch faces, navigate content, get quick access to the information that matters most, and more. | One tap mobile: +13126266799,,84439933345# | Phone: (312) 626-6799 📱️ | Webinar ID: 844 3993 3345 | Join the webinar:https://acb-org.zoom.us/j/84439933345
5) Meet The Voice Dream Apps | NOAT Welcomes Winston Chen Founder of Voice Dream
February 26th 2021 | 10:30AM PT, 11:30AM MT, 12:30PMPM CT, 1:30PM ET, 6:30PM GMT | In this session, Winston will share the personal story of how he founded Voice Dream, and give a demo of Voice Dream Reader. He will also talk about where Voice Dream is going in the future, along with an overview of other Voice Dream Apps:https://sites.google.com/noat.ca/events/2021/meet-the-voice-dream-apps
6) iBug Apple Workshop
February 27th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 8PM GMT | Join us for this free training session to learn more about the iOS and MacOS accessibility features of Apple products. One tap mobile from a smartphone +1 346 248 7799,,7428486329# US | Dial from a landline: +1 346 248 7799 US | Join the Zoom meeting:https://zoom.us/j/7428486329?pwd=M003RmZaa3pTbWRlZ00xbSs4YTlmUT09
7) Exploring NVDA Using Google Forms | ACB Community Call
February 27th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 8PM GMT | This week we will be discussing how to create forms using Google Forms. Google Forms is a tool to create and manage forms for people to fill out. So, take a step with me and let's take a safari into the wonderful world of Google Forms. For ease of use we will use the Chrome browser. Each week we will go through the ins and outs of NVDA, a free and open source screen reader for Windows, as well as NVDA. We will take a deep dive into Windows products such as the office suite and Windows ecosystem. | One tap mobile: +13126266799,,85748494298# | Phone: (312) 626-6799 📱️ | Meeting ID: 857 4849 4298 | Passcode: 272636 | Join the webinar:https://acb-org.zoom.us/j/85748494298?pwd=QXY4ZmtJU045bWxvZXBIb2JldTEvQT09
8) Free 2021 Virtual Assistive Technology Expo
March 2nd 2021 | 5:30AM PT, 6:30AM MT, 7:30AM CT, 8:30AM ET, 1:30PM GMT | Sponsored by The South Carolina Assistive Technology Program. Keynote Speaker: Don Johnston, M.S. Target Audience: People with disabilities, their families, seniors, educators, veterans, and healthcare professionals. Learn more:https://scatp.med.sc.edu/expo/
9) American Foundation for the Blind Centennial Gala Celebration
March 4th 2021 | 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 12AM GMT, 3/5 | The Art of Inclusion: AFB100 Concert & Celebration. An award-winning lineup of performers and other special guests. Available to stream via https://www.afb.org/ArtOfInclusion. Advance registration suggested at https://www.afb.org/100signup. Learn more:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/american-foundation-for-the-blind-announces-centennial-gala-celebration-301230831.html
10) Introduction to WeWalk
March 4th 2021 | 2AM PT, 3AM MT, 4AM CT, 5AM ET, 10AM GMT | This demo and discussion of the WeWalk Cane comes from Sight and Sound Technologies and SeaScape in the UK. Register here:https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_fyiQPZKWQPi7TVtEgOWlMg
11) Intracortical Visual Prosthesis Project Clinical Trial | Informational Session and Recruitment
March 9th 2021 | 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 12AM GMT, 3/10 | Zoom meeting. Link to Zoom session will be sent following registration. Conducted By: Illinois Institute of Technology & The Chicago Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired. | Learn from the researchers about an experimental device intended to restore visual perception for individuals who are blind. Learn about the intracortical visual prosthesis device, the study, expectations, possible risks and benefits, and post implant requirements. Interested individuals will receive contact information to speak with study personnel after the educational session is over. For more information and to reserve your spot please contact: Kelsey Stipp at (312) 567-5304 📱️, or ICVP@iit.edu 📧️. For more details:https://chicagolighthouse.org/icvp/
12) Free iPad Course for VoiceOver Geared Toward Middle School / High School Students
March 16th 2021 | This six-session course invites students to come and play games using their iPad with VoiceOver. Through game-based learning, students will learn and reinforce VoiceOver specific skills and explore apps helpful to the VoiceOver user. Through scavenger hunts, murder mysteries, and escape rooms, students will make friendships and connect with peers who are also VoiceOver users. Learn more about this and other California School for the Blind Short Courses here:https://www.csb-cde.ca.gov/outreach/shortcourses/index.aspx
13) Free Training Course from Humanware and the California School for the Blind (CSB) | BrailleNote Touch Plus Notetaker for Teachers and Professionals
March 17th 2021 | 12:30 PM PT, 1:30 PM MT, 2:30 PM CT, 3:30 PM ET, 8:30 PM GMT | Presented by: Rachel Feinberg, West Coast Blindness Product Specialist on behalf of HumanWare Technologies. The very full agenda will cover: Introduction and orientation to the BrailleNote Touch Plus. Who benefits from use of the BrailleNote. Skills needed to prepare for BrailleNote use. Efficiency of the BrailleNote with built-in keyboard short-cuts as a "braille first" product. Use of BrailleNote vs. iPad with braille display. Overview of Google Drive/Google Docs. How to upload files to Google Drive/download files from Google Drive for editing in KeyWord. Explore EasyReader+. Download books from Bookshare and navigate contents. Web browsing using Chrome . Discussion of remote viewing of the BrailleNote screen including TeamViewer as well as other screen-sharing options. Overview of KeyMath. Q and A throughout training. Register here:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc2LZDZ1PQVsGVFyP9G-CI_icKbizjOvzok-Vis9lGlZgOmqQ/viewform
14) Training Course from Hartgen Consultancy | Winning Teams! Using Microsoft Teams with JAWS for Windows
March 17th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | Cost: £150.00 / $205.00 USD | Four training sessions starting on Wednesday, March 17th 2021 and then weekly each Wednesday thereafter. If you cannot make a live session, you will have access to the recording of it shortly after. Requirements, registration and what you will receive available here:http://www.hartgen.org/teams
15) Free Training Course from Humanware and the California School for the Blind (CSB) | BrailleNote Touch Plus Notetaker for Students, Teachers and Families.
March 31st 2021 | 12:30 PM PT, 1:30 PM MT, 2:30 PM CT, 3:30 PM ET, 8:30 PM GMT | Presented by: Rachel Feinberg, West Coast Blindness Product Specialist on behalf of HumanWare Technologies. The format of the training will be primarily question and answer.https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdzzuwVaRWiWtgsBmN_XPYsihhJ8b_vXAc8eYCV19CJrwNfcQ/viewform
➜ Job Announcements
1) European Space Agency Seeking Persons With Disability as Part of Their New Call For Astronauts
"To be very explicit, this individual would do a meaningful space mission. So, they would need to do the science; they would need to participate in all the normal operations of the International Space Station (ISS)."https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-56072219
2) New Organization Helps Blind Workers Find Dream Jobs in Cybersecurity
National Industries for the Blind (NIB) has officially launched a new enterprise called NSITE, designed to connect businesses with qualified job seekers who are blind or visually impaired (BVI), and/or military veterans:https://www.scmagazine.com/home/security-news/new-organization-helps-blind-workers-find-their-dream-jobs-in-cybersecurity/
3) Accessibility Consultant with Level Access
Level Access has immediate openings for Accessibility Consultants. As our Accessibility Consultant you will work with clients to test and validate user interfaces against accessibility requirements and consult on the effective technical implementation of digital accessibility requirements in client systems. You will utilize your significant experience working with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, and strong verbal and written communication skills.https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/2414704540/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) 2021 Muck Artist in Residence to Focus on Accessibility
The Muckenthaler Cultural Center has announced its third Artist-in-Residence, Erin Schalk, for the 2021 Season. During her residency she intends to focus on projects for the blind and visually impaired, including expanding art class access to that community and curating a gallery exhibition of work from visually impaired artists:https://fullertonobserver.com/2021/02/18/2021-muck-artist-in-residence-to-focus-on-accessibility/
2) Disability Friendly Fashion and Beauty Brands
The fashion and beauty industry have been excluding the blind and visually impaired for a really long time. With the recent surge of inclusivity in the fashion and beauty industries, change may be afoot:https://www.supersense.app/post/disability-friendly-fashion-and-beauty-brands
➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: Brailiant BI 14 Portable Braille Display
Listing Date: 2/25/2021 | Price: $375.00 USD | Condition: Gently used. | Description: This display has a new main board , and a new battery. Comes with Executive Products Carrying Case. I will ship with in the Continental US. | Contact: jimoneill1@verizon.net 📧️ or (215) 317-9877 📱️ |2) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Do you keep using the same Magnification or Screen-reading software you've always used because it's the very best or because migrating is scary? If you're an assessor, are you recommending what's best for your client, or what you're comfortable teaching? SuperNova 20 is hands down better than the competition in every single way, features, stability and you don't need a gaming-speed computer to run it. Give it a try FREE for 30 Days! Learn more and download the trial at:
https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/news?id=500
Sponsor Since: January 28th 2021
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Phone (USA & Canada): +1 (866) 797-5921 📱️
Phone (UK, Europe & Asia): +44 01905 754577 📱️
Phone (Nordic & Baltic Contries): +46 0515 82175 📱️
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of GuideConnect
GuideConnect Trial
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of SuperNova
SuperNova Trial
About: Dolphin Computer Access offers a wide array of solutions for students, people in the workforce, and at home who are blind, visually impaired or have dyslexia. Each product is purposefully designed to help users, with varying levels of technology experience, do everyday things EASILY on computers and tablets. Founded in 1986 and located in Worcester England, Dolphin has grown to become a global market leader worldwide.
Sponsor: Vorail
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
24-hour peer-to-peer tech support in voice, and much more. Get answers to just about anything you need to know, whether it is blindness related or not, and make incredible friends. Follow who you like, mute those you don't. We're not alone in this blindness thing. Ask-alls range from "How to do X from an accessibility standpoint?" to "What do you keep in your bed other than yourself?" to "What word would you use to describe 2020? to "What word to describe your hopes for 2021?". Vorail is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
https://vorail.com/toptechtidbits
Sponsor Since: January 21st 2021
Website: https://www.vorail.com/toptechtidbits/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Vorail for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Vorail for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Mission: Vorail is the only platform in the world for the low vision and blind community where everybody can join conversations by voice on equal footing. Every day members of the Vorail community create ask-alls (questions) about life (news, health, technology, religion, sports and more) that allow us to see the world differently, and connect in a way that is deeper than 'liking' a photo. Vorail is an audio-only experience, voice is the window into a human soul. It does not matter if you are tall, short, wide, thin, white, or black when nobody sees your picture. Without the visuals, what counts is who you are, the person inside. That is the mission of Vorail, to create an extended family where we are judged for who we are, not what we look like.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Accessible Pharmacy, the new, home delivery pharmacy with a blind founder, is bringing its full range of support and services to Be My Eyes. Users of the Be My Eyes app can now call Accessible Pharmacy directly to get support with medication, medical devices, and even home delivery COVID testing. With a fully trained and discreet pharmacy staff on call from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Pacific, Accessible Pharmacy is the new way for blind and low vision consumers to get an easy, frictionless pharmacy experience. Call today — and you'll never have to take an Uber to the drugstore again.
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: Sprint IP Relay
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
One challenge someone with a combined vision and hearing loss must address is accessing the phone system without adequate vision or hearing. Individuals with no hearing but vision can access the phone system using a videophone. Those with no vision, but who have hearing can use the phone as it was intended. How would someone with vision and hearing loss continue to call doctors, contact emergency services such as 911, arrange for medical appointments, contact businesses, or friends and family who do not text? One solution, for those living in the U.S. with a form of hearing loss, is Sprint IP Relay. Come learn more at our webinars, specialized for the DeafBlind community. To learn more send an email to deafblind@sprint.com. CART and ASL interpretation will be provided.
Sponsor Since: October 22nd 2020
Website: https://www.sprintip.com/ 🌐
Email: scott.davert@t-mobile.com 📧️
Download The App (iOS):
Sprint IP Relay for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Sprint IP Relay for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Accessibility Customer Care: (800) 676-3777 📱️
About: Sprint IP Relay allows people who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind or with a Speech Disability to make or receive phone calls using an internet connection, a computer, tablet or smartphone. Simply type what you want to say to the operator, the operator relays the message to the person you called and then types the caller's response back to you. This process is all done through text, so a user with a braille display, for example, would not need to see the screen or use their voice to communicate with the hearing caller. The Sprint IP Relay service is available at no charge for those who are eligible. Registration is required to verify an individual's identity and residency. If you are a person who is deaf, hard of hearing, DeafBlind or have a speech disability, you will qualify to register for the Sprint IP Relay Service. The user can call anyone at any time within the United States and its territories. Email scott.davert@t-mobile.com with any questions.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Revolution Cane Tip: Standard Roller Tip: $14.50 | Locator Dots: Small Pack of 6 (Clear or Orange): $2.00 | NFB Metal Cane Tip: $3.00 | TMAP - On Demand Tactile Street | Map (set of two maps): $25.00 | Ambutech Aluminum Folding Cane: $35.00 | NFB Chris Park Telescoping Cane: $45.00 | BoldWriter 20 Pen (Individual or 6-pack): $2.00 | Bump Dots: Mixed (50 count): $7.00 | Braille Apple Catalina VoiceOver Guide OSX 10.15 (3 volumes) - Latest Manual: $52.00 | SpeedDots iPhone Tactile Screen Protector, Phone Layout: $12.00 | NFB Chris Park 7-Piece Folding Cane: $50.00 | Visit https://adaptations.org/ to learn more today!
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Code JumperTM is a fully accessible and inclusive computer coding innovation, originally designed by Microsoft® and developed by APH (for Windows, Chromebook, and Android devices)! With Code Jumper, students across the vision spectrum can learn the basics of computer programming and computational thinking by tactually creating computer code that can tell stories and make music. Learn more at:
https://www.aph.org/product/code-jumper/.
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
News: Non-Contact Infrared Talking Thermometer; accurate, easy to use, English voice; talking BP meter, one cuff fits all, easy and accurate, each $50.00, quantity discounts. Braille Display Bonanza; Varioultra 20, $600; Chameleon, $1,000; Orbit 20 Plus; dis450. New! Patchwork Leather Tablet and Braille Display Case; 12' by 12' 8 pockets; $50. Call for bag specials! New! Evo 10 Media and Daisy Player with Internet/FM Radio, Podcatcher, audio sound editor, Ivona voices, recorder; 10hr tutorial, $230.00. Call Barry: (617) 969-7500 📱️; bscheur@scheur.com 📧️.
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
If you're like me, you probably have more things to plug into your computer than available ports. That's why we've now added the Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub. Plug it into your laptop and you will get 3 USB ports, SD and Micro SD card slots, a USBC charging port, and an HDMI video port. It's available now for just $29.95:
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: John Panarese
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
COVID has brought us some very daunting challenges! But this has not stopped John Panarese from solving the great mystery! His technical offerings will help you to better understand and navigate the world of Apple devices! Visit https://macfortheblind.com/ to learn more today!
Director, https://www.MacForTheBlind.com
Authorized Apple Business Affiliate
Apple Certified Support Professional
Apple Certified Trainer
Assistive Technology Consultant
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://www.macfortheblind.com/ 🌐
Donate Course Time: https://donorbox.org/macfortheblind ❤
Email: john@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: Donna Jodhan
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Author, Donna Jodhan Publications
President, Sterling Creations
President, Barrier Free Canada / Canada sans Barrieres
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://donnajodhan.com/ 🌐
Donate: https://donorbox.org/author-donna-jodhan ❤
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: Dean Martineau
➜ 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 if interested at:
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: Humanware
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The wait is over! A redefined family of Brailliant refreshable Braille displays has arrived! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series will help you stay connected, download books from many participating online libraries and share information easily with your peers. You will enjoy the intuitive, seamless user experience of KeySoft Lite, the HumanWare flagship accessibility suite designed to make you more productive. Including the Brailliant BI 40X and the Brailliant BI 20X, this is the Brailliant idea you need!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/070120211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, February 18, 2021 - Volume 795 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, February 18, 2021 - Volume 795
The Week's News in Access Technologyhttps://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: From GuideLights and Gadgets. Finally! Affordable, Accurate, Talking Devices to Monitor Temperature & Blood Pressure!
We are excited to offer a commercial-grade, accurate, talking, non-contact infrared thermometer, and a blood pressure meter ($50 each). Now, when your thermometer speaks, you get what we should have had long ago, accurate & consistent temperature readings! These units have been available to hospitals & DME providers; now blind consumers can purchase them directly. Listen to a complete demonstration of both units by Barry Scheur himself using this link: https://youtu.be/ff2vOdTEbpU. Our new Daisy Book and Entertainment "Non-BARD" players with Ivona voices, FM and Internet radio and podcatcher and more, including a 6-hour Mystic Access tutorial. And it now offers 2 things your Stream can't give you: the ability to edit audio files on the player AND a $140 lower price! For a wide variety of electronics, leather bags, and "all things dog" contact: Barry Scheur (617) 969-7500 📱️; bscheur@scheur.com 📧️ or KaeAnn Rausch (781) 286-1696 📱️; guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️ http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Top 5 Keyboard Shortcuts for Speeding Up Search in Outlook: (14.4% of all clicks.)https://www.toptechtidbits.com/5.html
B.) How To Scan A QR Code With Your iPhone - No App Required: (13.7% of all clicks.)
https://support.apple.com/guide/iphone/scan-a-qr-code-iphe8bda8762/ios
C.) DuckDuckGo: Why I Switched to it From Google Search: (9.8% of all clicks.)
https://9to5mac.com/2021/02/09/duckduckgo/
D.) New App AVA (Autonomous Vehicle Assistant) To Help The Visually Impaired and Seniors to Enjoy Ride-Sharing with Self-Driving Cars: (6.1% of all clicks.)
https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2021-01/uom-awh012921.php
E.) Microsoft Screen Reader Voices Survey: (4.4% of all clicks.)
https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=v4j5cvGGr0GRqy180BHbR7afTI9gwt5JlZ1kFok_MnZUM05MTlRLNTlaSUZKMEdZT0c1SDZEVDA2Sy4u
2) Narrator for a Day
A tech trainer resolves to use Narrator instead of JAWS for his computing activities for an entire day:https://technologyisawesome.com/2021/02/16/narrator-for-a-day/
3) JAWS Power Tip: Identifying The Address of a Link
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/5.html4) JAWS Virtual Cursor Support Now Available in Windows 10 Universal Apps
Apps such as Weather will be easier to navigate with this update, part of the February 2021 updates:https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/JAWS/JAWSWhatsNew?utm_content=154609552&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&hss_channel=tw-2382446636
5) Calliope, More Than Just a Media Player
This is the first offering from a newly-discovered blind developer and trainer. If you don't need to speed up playback, this free multi-function media player could be a godsend. It allows searching and downloading from YouTube, playlist management, bookmarks, audio streaming, file tagging, library organization, and more:https://www.nathantech.net/products/software/calliope.php
6) Calendar Craziness
Another free Windows program, this is a powerful calendar creator and manager with reminders, time display and chimes:https://www.nathantech.net/nathantechsoftware.php
7) Learn To Code In Python
This 14-lesson audio tutorial with text transcripts takes you from the beginning to coding a game:https://www.nathantech.net/products/tutorials/python/index.php
8) Learn To Use VoiceOver on iOS Devices
Here we have seven tutorials plus extras, all in audio and text format:https://nathantech.net/products/tutorials/ios/index.php
9) Learn To Code In HTML
This is an eight-lesson tutorial, almost all with text transcripts:https://www.nathantech.net/products/tutorials/html/index.php
10) Sunrise Waterfall, A Website Building Tool:
This final offering from Nathan, although there are many more on his site, is a website builder, documentation creator and Markdown Editor:https://www.nathantech.net/products/software/sunrisewaterfall.php
11) Bookworm - The Universally Accessible e-Book Reader
Here's another free Windows app aimed at blind users. This allows for reading EPUB, PDF and other books on a PC:https://blindpandas.com/bookworm/
12) How to Replace Siri with Google Assistant on iPhone, iPad
This could make for a more powerful digital assistant on the iPhone:https://wccftech.com/how-to/how-to-replace-siri-with-google-assistant-on-iphone-ipad/
13) Workplace Technology Study
AFB seeks blind people with all sorts of work history to take this survey:https://www.afb.org/research-and-initiatives/workplace-tech-study
14) What's New in JAWS 2021 Screen Reading Software
https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/JAWS/JAWSWhatsNew#Enhancements15) What's New in Fusion 2021 and ZoomText 2021
https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/Fusion/FusionWhatsNew#enhancements16) What's New in ZoomText 2021
https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/ZoomText/ZoomTextWhatsNew#enhancements17) Learning Management Systems Top 15 Report from Better Buys
This is an Excel file so we are providing it as a ZIP file here for easy download. While this breakdown is not specific to accessibility it may still help teachers and buyers to better understand the differences between the top systems being used today:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/downloads/Learning-Management-Systems-Top-15-Report.zip
18) Discover Podcasting at the Kansas State School for the Blind
Shout out to the teacher and students of this podcasting course at the Kansas State School for the Blind. Their teacher wrote in to let us know that they sometimes refer to Tidbits in their app classes and asked if we might be willing to list their podcast in future issues. Which we were more than happy to do. So here's a quick introduction. Discover Podcasting at KSSB. Podcasting has been an interest to kids with visual impairments at the Kansas State School for the Blind for several years. They recently purchased equipment and began recording in the Spring of 2020. Topics vary with each episode, but a complete list can be found here:https://discover-podcasting.simplecast.com/
19) Thunderbird Team Outlines Plans for the Email Client
The next major Thunderbird release is version 91. it is scheduled for a release in the third quarter of 2021. The developers have published a roadmap in which they list new features and improvements that they consider integrating in Thunderbird 91 and beyond:https://www.ghacks.net/2021/02/10/thunderbird-team-outlines-plans-for-the-email-client/
20) The Most Useful Thunderbird Keyboard Shortcuts
This guide lists some of the most useful keyboard shortcuts for the Thunderbird email client:https://www.ghacks.net/2021/02/08/the-most-useful-thunderbird-shortcuts/
21) JAWS QuickTips: Using Voice Schemes
From the Freedom Scientific YouTube Channel. Check out their new series "JAWS QuickTips" for insights into how you can optimize JAWS for the best experience for you. Here, Matt Ater demonstrates how to customize JAWS Voice Schemes:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8eCf4z_esBo
➜ Podcasts
1) Kansas State School For The Blind 16 | More Than a Second Career: How Kimberly Rhea Became a TVI
February 5th 2021 | Kimberly Rhea has made an interesting path for herself by the interests and careers experiences she has pursued over the years. She has worked in the business world, taught students in public school, lived through a tornado, and has written several books. In her spare time, she has road motorcycles; made wedding cakes, and told jokes on stage.https://discover-podcasting.simplecast.com/episodes/more-than-a-second-career-how-kimberly-rhea-become-a-tvi
2) Blind Android Users 9 | It's All About Supersense
February 14th 2021 | From all of us here at Tidbits, we would like to return the mega shout out that we received in this episode. Can't thank you all enough. We are so very happy to bring your information to our readers. In this episode they are joined by Shane Lo from the "Mediate Lab" group where they discuss the "Supersense app" and its capabilities including his experience with the app as well as some discussion around the "Super LIDAR" app from "Mediate Lab" that is only available on the Apple app store for the iPhone 12 Pro:https://blindandroidusers.com
3) Mosen At Large 98 | Some Apple Slices. Moving Apps, Using Voice Control with VoiceOver, and Reassigning Thumbkeys on the APH Mantis and Similar Braille Displays
February 16th 2021https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/4ac75ab9/some-apple-slices-moving-apps-using-voice-control-with-voiceover-and-reassigning-thumb-keys-on-the-aph-mantis-and-similar-braille-displays
4) Blind Tech Guys 73 | A Window into Windows
February 16th 2021 | On this episode of the pod, Nimer demonstrated how one can go about setting up Windows 10 from scratch by using Windows Narrator, Marco demonstrated using Unigram with Jaws For Windows on a Windows PC and Kirt ran us through the Task Manager and showed us how powerful it actually is:https://www.blindtechguys.com/73
5) Eyes on Success 2808 | Navilens Update
February 17th 2021 | NaviLens uses an app on your smart phone to find and identify customized signs and tags from as far away as 60 feet. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Javier Pita, founder and CEO of NavilLens, about how the system is being used in transportation and other venues to provide location, direction, and other dynamic data to the visually impaired:https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202108.htm
6) Blind Bargains Qast 221 | The Other Oppisitte Of That
February 17th 2021 | The first one of the year, with some new product demos:https://blindbargains.com/bargains.php?m=22072
➜ Webinars and Training Courses (General)
1) List of Free February 2021 AT Webinars from the Accessible Technology Coalition
Thanks to the Accessible Technology Coalition for compiling this listing of free webinars from around the Web. You can follow the ATC Facebook page for late additions. Each is one hour unless noted. Pre-registration is sometimes required. Fifteen options for this short winter month, especially thanks to SETC in Washington. Many are recorded and archived if you miss them:https://at3centerblog.com/2021/02/01/free-at-webinars-february-2021/
2) Mac For The Blind Announces the Continuation of Mac for the Blind Online Courses
Courses include: "Welcome to Your Mac," The VoiceOver Utility and the Commanders Features on the Mac," "What is an Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP)," "Using Safari and VoiceOver in iOS," "You ask me all about the Mac," "VoiceOver and Finder on the Mac," and "You ask me all about iOS." 4 of these courses are free to join. 3 these courses have a $20.00 registration fee. Paid courses will have additional benefits not available with the free courses. The courses will take place throughout the months of February, March and April 2021. Learn more and register here:https://macfortheblind.com/?page_id=3813
3) Mac Cafe Permanent Schedule
Group sessions where individual help is available for new Mac users now take place on the first and third Mondays of each month. | 7:30 AM PT, 8:30 AM MT, 9:30 AM CT, 10:30 AM ET, 11:30 AM GMT 4:30 PM GMT:https://sturitup.com/2021/02/01/maccafe-is-here-to-stay/
4) Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled Offers Free Monthly Meetings on Assistive Technology
Those curious about technology that can aid in education, employment, and access to information may want to join the Maryland Library for the Blind and Print Disabled Technology User Group's monthly conference call. The call is generally held at 10:00 AM EST on the 2nd Saturday of the month and can be joined by dialing (319) 527-4994 📱️. For more information and to listen to recordings of previous calls visit:https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
5) American Council of the Blind Weekly Community Event Schedule
Weekly webinars on a range of various topics:https://acb.org/weekly-community-events
➜ Webinars and Training Courses (Upcoming)
1) Hamburgers? Pizza? Wings? Chinese Food? You Name It. Florida Outreach Center for The Blind Discusses and Demonstrates Door Dash, Uber Eats and Many Others:
February 18th 2021 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | One tap mobile: +13126266799,,#,# | Dialing direct: +1 312 626 6799 📱️ | Meeting ID Number: 561 642 0005 | If the system prompts you to enter a participant code just press the # key. | We will be discussing and demonstrating such apps as Door Dash and Uber Eats along with many others. In addition, one lucky winner will be winning some free food compliments of The Florida Outreach Center for The Blind so please join us using the following link:https://zoom.us/j/5616420005
2) ZoomText, Magnifier Software from Freedom Scientific
February 18th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Do you use ZoomText or want to learn more about it? Please join top software expert Ben Knolls and bring your questions. They'll cover ways to use ZoomText features with JAWS, and navigate and customize ZoomText. Benefit from tips, tricks, and key, commands. Continuing education credits offered for attending this webinar. Get a chance to win a home annual license of ZoomText for attending this webinar:https://blog.freedomscientific.com/join-us-for-a-zoomtext-software-webinar/
3) Learn About The Envision Glasses from Florida Vision Technology
February 18th 2021 | 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 1AM GMT | Zoom meeting. | Jose Cintron, Blindness Products Specialist and Training Manager, Florida Vision Technology, will be talking about Envision Glasses. Envision glasses are AI for your eye. They use the power of speech to make everyday life more accessible for any visual impairment. | Phone: (312) 626-6799 📱️ | Meeting ID: 250 907 8857 | Passcode: 7172 | Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/2509078857?pwd=dWEwN0N1dnEwQ3pyUnlpUnJ1VFUyZz09
4) ACB Community Call: Apple Presentation | Voice Memos Explained
February 19th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 8PM GMT | Join certified Apple Teacher Matt Vollbrecht and the TTJ Instructor Team as they describe and demonstrate the Voice Memos app. Learn how to make recordings, rename and organize your recordings, and even how to add to and edit existing recordings. Finally, learn how to share what you've recorded with others in a variety of ways. Sponsored by The Tech Juggernaut. | One tap mobile: +13126266799,,84439933345# | Phone: (312) 626-6799 📱️ | Webinar ID: 844 3993 3345 | Join the webinar:https://acb-org.zoom.us/j/84439933345
5) 2021 Online AT Fundamentals Course
February 22nd 2021 through March 17th 2021 | 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 12AM GMT | The AT Fundamentals Course helps candidates review and refresh their assistive technology knowledge and may help identify areas they need to study for the ATP exam, but this is not an ATP exam prep course. This course will be an online instructor-led course designed as a convenient, cost-efficient and effective way for busy AT professionals to participate. | Online Mondays & Wednesdays from 7:00 PM ET - 9:00 PM ET | Registration Fees: $650 RESNA members, $800 nonmembers, $550 RESNA members, without book, $700 nonmembers, without book. Register here:https://resna.ps.membersuite.com/events/ViewEvent.aspx?contextID=0baafe32-0078-c746-d848-195740d3acb8
6) Tech It Out: Accessible Reading Apps and Gadgets Revisited
February 23rd 2021 | 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 1AM GMT, 2/24 | Where is the best place to find accessible books? Can your smart assistant read books to you, download directly to a braille display? And how can you decide what to read next? Bring your questions about all things reading, as we cover the best apps, gadgets and services for enjoying your next good read:https://hadley.edu/discussion-groups/tech-it-out
7) Next-Gen Accessibility Testing Tools Webinar from the Paciello Group
February 24th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | With so many options for testing for accessibility, it's hard to know what tools are best suited for different situations. In this webinar, Charlie Pike, product manager for SaaS tools at TPG, will demonstrate the right tools to use for a variety of use cases. See TPG's next-generation accessibility tools in action:https://www.paciellogroup.com/webinar-february-24-next-gen-accessibility-testing-tools/
8) Free 2021 Virtual Assistive Technology Expo
March 2nd 2021 | 5:30AM PT, 6:30AM MT, 7:30AM CT, 8:30AM ET, 1:30PM GMT | Sponsored by The South Carolina Assistive Technology Program. Keynote Speaker: Don Johnston, M.S. Target Audience: People with disabilities, their families, seniors, educators, veterans, and healthcare professionals. Learn more:https://scatp.med.sc.edu/expo/
9) Free iPad Course for VoiceOver Geared Toward Middle School / High School Students
March 16th 2021 | This six-session course invites students to come and play games using their iPad with VoiceOver. Through game-based learning, students will learn and reinforce VoiceOver specific skills and explore apps helpful to the VoiceOver user. Through scavenger hunts, murder mysteries, and escape rooms, students will make friendships and connect with peers who are also VoiceOver users. Learn more about this and other California School for the Blind Short Courses here:https://www.csb-cde.ca.gov/outreach/shortcourses/index.aspx
10) Free Training Course from Humanware and the California School for the Blind (CSB) | BrailleNote Touch Plus Notetaker for Teachers and Professionals
March 17th 2021 | 12:30 PM PT, 1:30 PM MT, 2:30 PM CT, 3:30 PM ET, 8:30 PM GMT | Presented by: Rachel Feinberg, West Coast Blindness Product Specialist on behalf of HumanWare Technologies. The very full agenda will cover: Introduction and orientation to the BrailleNote Touch Plus. Who benefits from use of the BrailleNote. Skills needed to prepare for BrailleNote use. Efficiency of the BrailleNote with built-in keyboard short-cuts as a "braille first" product. Use of BrailleNote vs. iPad with braille display. Overview of Google Drive/Google Docs. How to upload files to Google Drive/download files from Google Drive for editing in KeyWord. Explore EasyReader+. Download books from Bookshare and navigate contents. Web browsing using Chrome . Discussion of remote viewing of the BrailleNote screen including TeamViewer as well as other screen-sharing options. Overview of KeyMath. Q and A throughout training. Register here:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc2LZDZ1PQVsGVFyP9G-CI_icKbizjOvzok-Vis9lGlZgOmqQ/viewform
11) Training Course from Hartgen Consultancy | Winning Teams! Using Microsoft Teams with JAWS for Windows
March 17th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | Cost: £150.00 / $205.00 USD | Four training sessions starting on Wednesday, March 17th 2021 and then weekly each Wednesday thereafter. If you cannot make a live session, you will have access to the recording of it shortly after. Requirements, registration and what you will receive available here:http://www.hartgen.org/teams
12) Free Training Course from Humanware and the California School for the Blind (CSB) | BrailleNote Touch Plus Notetaker for Students, Teachers and Families.
March 31st 2021 | 12:30 PM PT, 1:30 PM MT, 2:30 PM CT, 3:30 PM ET, 8:30 PM GMT | Presented by: Rachel Feinberg, West Coast Blindness Product Specialist on behalf of HumanWare Technologies. The format of the training will be primarily question and answer.https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdzzuwVaRWiWtgsBmN_XPYsihhJ8b_vXAc8eYCV19CJrwNfcQ/viewform
➜ Job Announcements
1) Accessible Technology Assistant | University of California, Davis
February 24th 2021 application deadline. Salary Range: $23.89 - $32.81/Hr. Learn more and apply at:https://careerspub.universityofcalifornia.edu/psp/ucdavis/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM.HRS_APP_SCHJOB.GBL?Page=HRS_APP_JBPST&JobOpeningId=15327&PostingSeq=1&SiteId=7&languageCd=ENG&FOCUS=Applicant
2) Assistant Director, Digital Accessibility | Ohio State University
Reporting to the Deputy ADA Coordinator who oversees the Digital Accessibility Center, this position will support The Ohio State University's campus-wide digital accessibility compliance initiatives:https://osu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/OSUCareers/job/Columbus-Campus/Asst-Director--Digital-Accessibility_R6485-1
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Visually Impaired Face New Challenges Navigating a World Remade by COVID-19
Those in the blind and low-vision community have long faced challenges now synonymous with the pandemic: social isolation, mobility limitations, classroom dynamics that are less than ideal. But the crisis has exacerbated these problems:https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2021-02-13/blind-face-new-challenges-navigating-covid-19-world
2) After Super Bowl Breakthrough, Will Visually and Hearing-Impaired Audiences Stay in Brands' Plans?
For the first time in the history of the Big Game, this year saw Tide Detergent feature descriptive video, ensuring its Super Bowl spot was inclusive for the blind and visually impaired community. On the back of this accessibility milestone, The Drum explores its significance, questioning what more advertisers can do to reach blind audiences:https://www.thedrum.com/news/2021/02/16/dvs-the-super-bowl-what-s-next-visually-and-hearing-impaired-viewers
3) Tennis Australia Launches Audio Stream To Allow Blind To Follow Sport
Tennis Australia has developed a web-based audio stream that makes use of real-time ball monitoring to create a 3D spatialised audio experience:https://newsxpres.com/tennis-australia-launches-audio-stream-to-allow-blind-to-follow-sport-digital/
4) Researchers Identify Prevalence, Risk Factors Associated with Sleep Disorders in Visually Impaired Athletes
Researchers from the University of Tsukuba have identified the prevalence and risk factors associated with sleep disorders in visually impaired athletes:https://www.news-medical.net/news/20210214/Researchers-identify-prevalence-risk-factors-associated-with-sleep-disorders-in-visually-impaired-athletes.aspx
5) A New Company Pursues Total Recall — Starting With Zoom
"Our long-term ambition is to provide perfect recall of every memory," he says. "We want to help you remember everything." To make that happen, he started a company called Scribe.ai. The plan is to methodically capture and store all sorts of data — audio, video, and eventually biometric — that can be easily searched or cleverly invoked in a way that augments your actual memory with stuff you otherwise wouldn't have possibly remembered:https://www.wired.com/story/plaintext-new-company-total-recall-zoom/
6) Freedom Scientific Announces Changes to US Software Pricing
These changes represent price increases taking effect in March 2021 in the US:https://support.freedomscientific.com/About/News/Article/214
7) For Blind Students, Accessibility Makes All The Difference, This NYC Teacher Says
From making maps to touring city buses — it's all part of the job for one award-winning educator:https://ny.chalkbeat.org/2021/2/16/22286305/blind-students-accessibility-covid
8) 4 Tech Innovations That Support People with Disabilities Working From Home
For the 1.3 billion people across the world who live with some form of disability, remote working can be particularly tough. But technology is helping to overcome the barriers that risk excluding some people from the pandemic-era world of work:https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2021/02/tech-innovations-people-with-disabilities-covid/
9) Neurodiversity: Why People with Autism, Asperger's, Dyslexia, and ADHD Can Bring Massive Value to the Workplace
People with neurodivergent backgrounds tend to have a strong attention to detail and can excel at coding, and the use of technology and AI programming:https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2021/02/embracing-the-differences-neurodiversity-in-the-workplace/
10) FCC Seeks Outreach Partners for Emergency Broadband Benefit
On February 11, 2021, Federal Communications Commission Acting Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel announced that the FCC is seeking outreach partners to help share important consumer information about the Emergency Broadband Benefit - an FCC program being developed to provide relief to households that are struggling to pay for internet service during the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of the effort to inform consumers about the upcoming Emergency Broadband Benefit, the FCC has established a new website where stakeholders can sign up to help promote this new program. Program eligibility details and participating providers will be announced in the coming weeks:https://www.fcc.gov/broadbandbenefit
11) Library of Smells for the Blind and Visually Impaired to Open in Poland
The centre launched an appeal to find "interesting smells" and began to receive packages from around the world. Marek Jakubowski, a centre spokesman, told the Polish Press Agency (PAP) that dried flowers and spices, railway engine grease, perfume and even elephant dung will be among the scents to sample:https://www.euroweeklynews.com/2021/02/13/library-of-smells-for-the-blind-and-visually-impaired-to-open-in-poland/
➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: Humanware Braillenote Touch 32 Notetaker and Display
Listing Date: 1/28/2021 | Price: $1,885.00 USD | Condition: New | Description: This is a new in retail box with accessories Humanware Braillenote Touch 32 Notetaker and Braille Display for iPhone/Android/Computer/Mac. It is not used. Comes with everything. Only asking $1885 o.b.o. | Contact Chris at: cs567eml@gmail.com 📧️ or (408) 659-1374 📱️ |2) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: Vorail
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
24-hour peer-to-peer tech support in voice, and much more. Get answers to just about anything you need to know, whether it is blindness related or not, and make incredible friends. Follow who you like, mute those you don't. We're not alone in this blindness thing. Ask-alls range from "How to do X from an accessibility standpoint?" to "What do you keep in your bed other than yourself?" to "What word would you use to describe 2020? to "What word to describe your hopes for 2021?". Vorail is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
https://vorail.com/toptechtidbits
Sponsor Since: January 21st 2021
Website: https://www.vorail.com/toptechtidbits/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Vorail for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Vorail for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Mission: Vorail is the only platform in the world for the low vision and blind community where everybody can join conversations by voice on equal footing. Every day members of the Vorail community create ask-alls (questions) about life (news, health, technology, religion, sports and more) that allow us to see the world differently, and connect in a way that is deeper than 'liking' a photo. Vorail is an audio-only experience, voice is the window into a human soul. It does not matter if you are tall, short, wide, thin, white, or black when nobody sees your picture. Without the visuals, what counts is who you are, the person inside. That is the mission of Vorail, to create an extended family where we are judged for who we are, not what we look like.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Accessible Pharmacy, the new, home delivery pharmacy with a blind founder, is bringing its full range of support and services to Be My Eyes. Users of the Be My Eyes app can now call Accessible Pharmacy directly to get support with medication, medical devices, and even home delivery COVID testing. With a fully trained and discreet pharmacy staff on call from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Pacific, Accessible Pharmacy is the new way for blind and low vision consumers to get an easy, frictionless pharmacy experience. Call today — and you'll never have to take an Uber to the drugstore again.
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: Sprint IP Relay
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
One challenge someone with a combined vision and hearing loss must address is accessing the phone system without adequate vision or hearing. Individuals with no hearing but vision can access the phone system using a videophone. Those with no vision, but who have hearing can use the phone as it was intended. How would someone with vision and hearing loss continue to call doctors, contact emergency services such as 911, arrange for medical appointments, contact businesses, or friends and family who do not text? One solution, for those living in the U.S. with a form of hearing loss, is Sprint IP Relay. Come learn more at our webinars, specialized for the DeafBlind community. To learn more send an email to deafblind@sprint.com. CART and ASL interpretation will be provided.
Sponsor Since: October 22nd 2020
Website: https://www.sprintip.com/ 🌐
Email: scott.davert@t-mobile.com 📧️
Download The App (iOS):
Sprint IP Relay for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Sprint IP Relay for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Accessibility Customer Care: (800) 676-3777 📱️
About: Sprint IP Relay allows people who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind or with a Speech Disability to make or receive phone calls using an internet connection, a computer, tablet or smartphone. Simply type what you want to say to the operator, the operator relays the message to the person you called and then types the caller's response back to you. This process is all done through text, so a user with a braille display, for example, would not need to see the screen or use their voice to communicate with the hearing caller. The Sprint IP Relay service is available at no charge for those who are eligible. Registration is required to verify an individual's identity and residency. If you are a person who is deaf, hard of hearing, DeafBlind or have a speech disability, you will qualify to register for the Sprint IP Relay Service. The user can call anyone at any time within the United States and its territories. Email scott.davert@t-mobile.com with any questions.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Revolution Cane Tip: Standard Roller Tip: $14.50 | Locator Dots: Small Pack of 6 (Clear or Orange): $2.00 | NFB Metal Cane Tip: $3.00 | TMAP - On Demand Tactile Street | Map (set of two maps): $25.00 | Ambutech Aluminum Folding Cane: $35.00 | NFB Chris Park Telescoping Cane: $45.00 | BoldWriter 20 Pen (Individual or 6-pack): $2.00 | Bump Dots: Mixed (50 count): $7.00 | Braille Apple Catalina VoiceOver Guide OSX 10.15 (3 volumes) - Latest Manual: $52.00 | SpeedDots iPhone Tactile Screen Protector, Phone Layout: $12.00 | NFB Chris Park 7-Piece Folding Cane: $50.00 | Visit https://adaptations.org/ to learn more today!
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Code JumperTM is a fully accessible and inclusive computer coding innovation, originally designed by Microsoft® and developed by APH (for Windows, Chromebook, and Android devices)! With Code Jumper, students across the vision spectrum can learn the basics of computer programming and computational thinking by tactually creating computer code that can tell stories and make music. Learn more at:
https://www.aph.org/product/code-jumper/.
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Mystery Gadget or Doggy Bags; Through Jan. 31, we will double the value of your choice of $25 or $50 gadgets-leather or "all-things-dog" grab bags. Our new shoulder lambskin patchwork tablet and Braille display case will hold just about anything you need for a day $50; form fitting BN Touch Plus leather case $60; new $10 Stream pouch or new Orbit Writer and Phone "On the Go" pouch; write as you walk $35.00; ask about other bag deals. New! Evo 10 Daisy Player with Internet and FM Radio, Podcatcher, lots more; Ivona Joey and Sally; Mystic Access tutorial, leather case, $225. Call Barry:
(617) 969-7500 📱️ | bscheur@scheur.com.
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
If you're like me, you probably have more things to plug into your computer than available ports. That's why we've now added the Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub. Plug it into your laptop and you will get 3 USB ports, SD and Micro SD card slots, a USBC charging port, and an HDMI video port. It's available now for just $29.95:
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: John Panarese
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
COVID has brought us some very daunting challenges! But this has not stopped John Panarese from solving the great mystery! His technical offerings will help you to better understand and navigate the world of Apple devices! Visit https://macfortheblind.com/ to learn more today!
Director, https://www.MacForTheBlind.com
Authorized Apple Business Affiliate
Apple Certified Support Professional
Apple Certified Trainer
Assistive Technology Consultant
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://www.macfortheblind.com/ 🌐
Donate Course Time: https://donorbox.org/macfortheblind ❤
Email: john@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: Donna Jodhan
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Author, Donna Jodhan Publications
President, Sterling Creations
President, Barrier Free Canada / Canada sans Barrieres
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://donnajodhan.com/ 🌐
Donate: https://donorbox.org/author-donna-jodhan ❤
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: Dean Martineau
➜ 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 if interested at:
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: Humanware
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The wait is over! A redefined family of Brailliant refreshable Braille displays has arrived! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series will help you stay connected, download books from many participating online libraries and share information easily with your peers. You will enjoy the intuitive, seamless user experience of KeySoft Lite, the HumanWare flagship accessibility suite designed to make you more productive. Including the Brailliant BI 40X and the Brailliant BI 20X, this is the Brailliant idea you need!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/070120211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Do you keep using the same Magnification or Screen-reading software you've always used because it's the very best or because migrating is scary? If you're an assessor, are you recommending what's best for your client, or what you're comfortable teaching? SuperNova 20 is hands down better than the competition in every single way, features, stability and you don't need a gaming-speed computer to run it. Give it a try FREE for 30 Days! Learn more and download the trial at:
https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/news?id=500
Sponsor Since: January 28th 2021
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Phone (USA & Canada): +1 (866) 797-5921 📱️
Phone (UK, Europe & Asia): +44 01905 754577 📱️
Phone (Nordic & Baltic Contries): +46 0515 82175 📱️
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of GuideConnect
GuideConnect Trial
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of SuperNova
SuperNova Trial
About: Dolphin Computer Access offers a wide array of solutions for students, people in the workforce, and at home who are blind, visually impaired or have dyslexia. Each product is purposefully designed to help users, with varying levels of technology experience, do everyday things EASILY on computers and tablets. Founded in 1986 and located in Worcester England, Dolphin has grown to become a global market leader worldwide.
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|
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, February 11, 2021 - Volume 794 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, February 11, 2021 - Volume 794
The Week's News in Access Technologyhttps://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Meet Donna Jodhan! A Coach With A Passion to Assist Seniors and Adults Living with Sight Loss to Conquer the Challenges of COVID-19 and Much More
Meet Donna Jodhan! A coach with a passion to assist seniors and adults living with sight loss to conquer the challenges of COVID-19 and much more. As a coach, Donna will use her vast knowledge and life experience as an advocate, author, and entrepreneur to successfully assist you to navigate through life and to learn how to live with vision loss. As a person with sight loss herself, Donna recognizes and knows only too well how the colossal challenges of COVID-19 has changed the lives of us all; especially so for those living with sight loss. At the best of times, it is difficult enough to cope when sight loss sets in for anyone but when the world is unexpectedly and practically turned on its head and we are all now forced to find new ways to cope, the challenges of sight loss becomes even more acute. There is nothing better than having someone beside you who can provide personal and customized services to meet and accommodate your needs upon request. Donna is a high profile Apple certified trainer and consultant and world renowned author who has written and produced and continues to write as a blogger, editorialist, podcast commentator, writer, and fiction author. She produces meaningful and up to date info designed to assist the reader and listener to become more confident when dealing with sight loss. She has been coaching persons with sight loss since 2000 and now she is expanding her services to include the following: Coaching by phone, email, Facetime, Skype, and Zoom. Coaching you how to cope with sight loss in your homes, gardens, places of employment, and your home offices. Showing you how to navigate the fast moving and complicated world of technology and how to conquer bullying and scams. Donna will show you how to deal with those bothersome daily challenges; domestic, medical, social, mental, health and fitness, technical, and much more. Donna is presently updating her website at https://donnajodhan.com/ to better reflect her services but in the meantime please feel free to contact her at donnajodhan@gmail.com to learn more. Her updated website is scheduled for release by March 1st 2021. Donna looks forward to hearing from you.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) The Right Way to Rescue a Soaking Wet Smartphone: (10.2% of all clicks.)https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-rescue-a-wet-phone/
B.) This A Cappella Group is Scarily Good at Imitating Windows Sound Effects: (7.1% of all clicks.)
https://www.theverge.com/22252590/maytree-a-cappella-group-windows-10-singing
C.) Features and Accessibility of the Top Three Remote Meeting Platforms: Zoom, Teams, and Meet: (6.8% of all clicks.)
https://webfriendlyhelp.com/features-and-accessibility-of-the-top-three-remote-meeting-platforms-zoom-teams-and-meet/
D.) Chrome vs. Firefox vs. Microsoft Edge: Which Browser Gobbles Up the Most RAM?: (6.6% of all clicks.)
https://www.tomsguide.com/news/chrome-firefox-edge-ram-comparison
E.) Internet Archive Program for People with Print Disabilities: (6.0% of all clicks.)
https://archive.org/details/printdisabled&tab=about
2) CAPTCHA Be Gone | Alert | Service May No Longer Be Supported
After posting the contribution that we received last week regarding the CAPTCHA Be Gone subscription service we received several notifications from readers letting us know that while they were able to sign up for the service and download the plug-in, they were consistently unable to to contact anyone behind the service. This may mean that the CAPTCHA Be Gone service is no longer supported. If this is not the case, we encourage anyone behind the service to reach out to us so that we may update readers accordingly:enews@toptechtidbits.com
3) Flex Reader, Concept to Develop (MP3)
Perhaps you will find this experiment, allowing a user to read recipes line by line using SIRI, worth learning about and expanding:https://files.jantrid.net/FlexReaderDemo.mp3
4) DuckDuckGo: Why I Switched to it From Google Search
This 9to5Mac article explains the benefits:https://9to5mac.com/2021/02/09/duckduckgo/
5) Non-Contact Infrared Talking Thermometer Now Available from Guidelights and Gadgets
A talking blood pressure monitor is also available. For more information, write to Barry Scheur at:bscheur@scheur.com 📧️
6) BITS Tech Support During Zoom Chats
BITS is the tech affiliate of American Council of the Blind. They hold round tables and presentations for members. They also hold open chats a few nights a week, and they now use Zoom breakout rooms for people to discuss their technology issues and get assistance:https://bits-acb.org/drupal77/
7) Microsoft Screen Reader Voices Survey
In this survey, Microsoft wants to learn about the voices that you use with screen readers:https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=v4j5cvGGr0GRqy180BHbR7afTI9gwt5JlZ1kFok_MnZUM05MTlRLNTlaSUZKMEdZT0c1SDZEVDA2Sy4u
8) Blind Android Users Mailing List
You can join this list of Android enthusiasts by sending a blank message to:blindandroidusers+subscribe@groups.io 📧️
9) New App AVA (Autonomous Vehicle Assistant) To Help The Visually Impaired and Seniors to Enjoy Ride-Sharing with Self-Driving Cars
Self-driving cars will offer access to ride-sharing and ride-hailing with their suite of modern conveniences. However, many people with visual impairments who use these services rely on a human driver to safely locate their vehicle. AVA will help users request, find and enter a vehicle using a multisensory interface that provides guidance through audio and haptic feedback and high-contrast visual cues:https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2021-01/uom-awh012921.php
10) Scribe for Meetings Now Free for Webinars Worldwide
This service gives access to otherwise unreadable PowerPoints shared in webinars and Zoom meetings. Effective immediately, it is now available free for public webinars whose audience is primarily blind or visually impaired, anywhere in the world. If you are an agency, for-profit company, or nonprofit organization serving the blindness community, you can visit ScribeForMeetings.com and register for the free service. Simply provide the event URL and upload a copy of your PowerPoint presentation to be shared at your event. This offer is currently for Webinars only. If you are interested in using Scribe for your internal Zoom Meetings, you can check out their pricing structure:https://pneumasolutions.com/scribe-for-meetings-is-free-for-webinars-worldwide/
11) Top 5 Keyboard Shortcuts for Speeding Up Search in Outlook
There are many shortcuts to learn in Outlook, and some come in handy more often than others. If you receive a lot of emails, these shortcuts will help you navigate your inbox faster and more effectively:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/5.html
12) How To Scan A QR Code With Your iPhone - No App Required
Did you know that you can use your iPhone's native camera app to read QR Codes? And, there's an even more direct method from within Settings:https://support.apple.com/guide/iphone/scan-a-qr-code-iphe8bda8762/ios
13) Humanware Ending Support for BrailleNote Apex | Replacements and Trade-In Program
Humanware has stated that they will continue to offer limited support for the BrailleNote Apex, to the best of their ability, until February 28th 2021. Starting March 1st 2021 all support for BrailleNote Apex will come to an end:http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/260120211143-APEX_Final-US.htm
➜ Podcasts
1) Eyes on Success 2107 | Holzman Prize
February 10th 2021 | The Holman Prize was designed to support the growth of adventurous spirits, entrepreneurship and leadership within the blind community. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Caitlin O'Malior, a communications associate at San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired that sponsors the prize, about this unique award and how it works:http://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202107.htm
2) Mosen At Large 96 | Nick Zammarelli Reviews the New Version of Google Talkback Included with Samsung Smartphones
Samsung has recently released a new Galaxy range, plus they are going back and upgrading some older models to Android 11. As part of that upgrade, the Voice Assistant screen reader has been replaced by a new version of Talkback from Google. It boasts multitouch gestures and other improvements. In this episode, Nick Zammarelli introduces us to the new Google Talkback and shares his thoughts on his likes and dislikes:https://mosen.org/episode-96-nick-zammarelli-reviews-the-new-version-of-google-talkback-included-with-samsung-smartphones/
3) Blind Tech Guys 72 | Securing Your Digital Life And Accessible Fitness Apps
February 9th 2021 | On this week's episode, Marco discussed accessible fitness apps, Kirt reviewed Surfshark VPN and they chatted about how best to secure your digital life in order to protect yourself as best as you can from the internet nasties:https://www.blindtechguys.com/72
4) Blind Android Users 8
This podcast is up to episode 8, where the main topic is Lazarillo GPS app for the blind:https://blindandroidusers.com
5) Two-Hour Interview with NVDA Contributor Joseph Lee
This podcast covers a lot of ground, very thorough:https://www.techvb.net/2021/02/07/in-depth-interview-with-nvda-contributor-joseph-lee-we-talked-about-screen-readers-education-and-everything-else-accessibility-related/?fbclid=IwAR1wevrh3VVwCihpdqJDe50hC-l4E-fJ3HCHm1YrHzLxfIZC8CcJV45a8xQ
➜ Webinars and Training Courses (General)
1) Mac For The Blind Announces the Continuation of Mac for the Blind Online Courses
Courses include: "Welcome to Your Mac," The VoiceOver Utility and the Commanders Features on the Mac," "What is an Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP)," "Using Safari and VoiceOver in iOS," "You ask me all about the Mac," "VoiceOver and Finder on the Mac," and "You ask me all about iOS." 4 of these courses are free to join. 3 these courses have a $20.00 registration fee. Paid courses will have additional benefits not available with the free courses. The courses will take place throughout the months of February, March and April 2021. Learn more and register here:https://macfortheblind.com/?page_id=3813
2) Studio Recorder Course Now Available
You can buy the 4-hour archive of this course for about $62:http://www.hartgen.org/training
3) Mac Cafe Permanent Schedule
Group sessions where individual help is available for new Mac users now take place on the first and third Mondays of each month. | 7:30 AM PT, 8:30 AM MT, 9:30 AM CT, 10:30 AM ET, 11:30 AM GMT 4:30 PM GMT:https://sturitup.com/2021/02/01/maccafe-is-here-to-stay/
4) Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled Offers Free Monthly Meetings on Assistive Technology
Those curious about technology that can aid in education, employment, and access to information may want to join the Maryland Library for the Blind and Print Disabled Technology User Group's monthly conference call. The call is generally held at 10:00 AM EST on the 2nd Saturday of the month and can be joined by dialing (319) 527-4994 📱️. For more information and to listen to recordings of previous calls visit:https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
5) List of Free February 2021 AT Webinars from the Accessible Technology Coalition
Thanks to the Accessible Technology Coalition for compiling this listing of free webinars from around the Web. You can follow the ATC Facebook page for late additions. Each is one hour unless noted. Pre-registration is sometimes required. Fifteen options for this short winter month, especially thanks to SETC in Washington. Many are recorded and archived if you miss them:https://at3centerblog.com/2021/02/01/free-at-webinars-february-2021/
6) American Council of the Blind Weekly Community Event Schedule
Weekly webinars on a range of various topics:https://acb.org/weekly-community-events
➜ Webinars and Training Courses (Upcoming)
1) Vispero Presentation: Low Vision Devices | ACB Community Call
February 11th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 8PM GMT | Join Charles Madsen who will be available to answer your questions around which low vision device is right for you. | One tap mobile: +13126266799,,88275409010# | Phone: (312) 626-6799 📱️ | Webinar ID: 882 7540 9010 | Passcode: 974968 | Join the webinar:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88275409010?pwd=dlZ1VFozQWlEcHZtSXBBZ25EQzRZdz09
2) Webinar From Accessible Pharmacy And Be My Eyes: Talking Glucose Meters For Blind And Low Vision Diabetics
February 12th 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind and Be My Eyes are hosting a free webinar about talking glucose meters for blind and low vision diabetics. They will be joined by the team from Prodigy Diabetes Care and they will be discussing their products and the role that Accessible Pharmacy and Be My Eyes can play to help support patients. All attendees can get a free talking glucose meter to try. Register here:https://www.bemyeyes.com/diabetes-care-webinar
3) What To Do When Your PC Stops Talking | ACB Community Call
February 12th 2021 | 2PM PT, 3PM MT, 4PM CT, 5PM ET, 10PM GMT | You are alone at home and your Windows PC isn't talking! Deborah Armstrong, an experienced tech and screen reader user will help you prepare for that possible catastrophe and also show you ways to troubleshoot the problem when you appear to not have any speech. | One tap mobile: +13126266799,,93446190538# | Phone: (312) 626-6799 📱️ | Meeting ID: 934 4619 0538 | Passcode: 397612 | Join the call at:https://fhda-edu.zoom.us/j/93446190538?pwd=Q0kvMW9oQ3JXTFRyN3Urb0NaOVhnZz09
4) Free Train the Trainer Course for Dolphin GuideConnect V1.15
February 17th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | 6 Hour Training Course with Breaks. Register to get the training manual, slides and link to the training here:https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_NJPzWGKHStedHNUuePxVfw?mc_cid=1889c7a05c&mc_eid=163fcd73b2
5) 2021 Online AT Fundamentals Course
February 22nd 2021 - March 17th 2021 | 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 12AM GMT | The AT Fundamentals Course helps candidates review and refresh their assistive technology knowledge and may help identify areas they need to study for the ATP exam, but this is not an ATP exam prep course. This course will be an online instructor-led course designed as a convenient, cost-efficient and effective way for busy AT professionals to participate. | Online Mondays & Wednesdays from 7:00 PM ET - 9:00 PM ET | Registration Fees: $650 RESNA members, $800 nonmembers, $550 RESNA members, without book, $700 nonmembers, without book. Register here:https://resna.ps.membersuite.com/events/ViewEvent.aspx?contextID=0baafe32-0078-c746-d848-195740d3acb8
6) Free iPad Course for VoiceOver Geared Toward Middle School / High School Students
March 16th 2021 | This six-session course invites students to come and play games using their iPad with VoiceOver. Through game-based learning, students will learn and reinforce VoiceOver specific skills and explore apps helpful to the VoiceOver user. Through scavenger hunts, murder mysteries, and escape rooms, students will make friendships and connect with peers who are also VoiceOver users. Learn more about this and other California School for the Blind Short Courses here:https://www.csb-cde.ca.gov/outreach/shortcourses/index.aspx
7) Free Training Course from Humanware and the California School for the Blind (CSB) | BrailleNote Touch Plus Notetaker for Teachers and Professionals
March 17th 2021 | 12:30 PM PT, 1:30 PM MT, 2:30 PM CT, 3:30 PM ET, 8:30 PM GMT | Presented by: Rachel Feinberg, West Coast Blindness Product Specialist on behalf of HumanWare Technologies. The very full agenda will cover: Introduction and orientation to the BrailleNote Touch Plus. Who benefits from use of the BrailleNote. Skills needed to prepare for BrailleNote use. Efficiency of the BrailleNote with built-in keyboard short-cuts as a "braille first" product. Use of BrailleNote vs. iPad with braille display. Overview of Google Drive/Google Docs. How to upload files to Google Drive/download files from Google Drive for editing in KeyWord. Explore EasyReader+. Download books from Bookshare and navigate contents. Web browsing using Chrome . Discussion of remote viewing of the BrailleNote screen including TeamViewer as well as other screen-sharing options. Overview of KeyMath. Q and A throughout training. Register here:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc2LZDZ1PQVsGVFyP9G-CI_icKbizjOvzok-Vis9lGlZgOmqQ/viewform
8) Training Course from Hartgen Consultancy | Winning Teams! Using Microsoft Teams with JAWS for Windows
March 17th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | Cost: £150.00 / $205.00 USD | Four training sessions starting on Wednesday, March 17th 2021 and then weekly each Wednesday thereafter. If you cannot make a live session, you will have access to the recording of it shortly after. Requirements, registration and what you will receive available here:http://www.hartgen.org/teams
9) Free Training Course from Humanware and the California School for the Blind (CSB) | BrailleNote Touch Plus Notetaker for Students, Teachers and Families.
March 31st 2021 | 12:30 PM PT, 1:30 PM MT, 2:30 PM CT, 3:30 PM ET, 8:30 PM GMT | Presented by: Rachel Feinberg, West Coast Blindness Product Specialist on behalf of HumanWare Technologies. The format of the training will be primarily question and answer.https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdzzuwVaRWiWtgsBmN_XPYsihhJ8b_vXAc8eYCV19CJrwNfcQ/viewform
➜ Job Announcements
1) NIB Job Alert Moves to NSITEConnect
National Industries for the Blind has launched NSITEConnect, a free job board to connect job seekers who are blind or visually impaired with career opportunities with Corporate, Government and Non-Profit businesses across the country. NSITE Connect is Launching in two phases. Phase one is filling the site with talented Blind and Visually impaired job seekers. Phase two will include the businesses interested in partnering with NSITE Connect. The number of candidate profiles available on the site will have a significant effect on the number of companies who are drawn to register. So be the first in line, create your full profile today:https://www.nib.org/press/new-enterprise-tackles-workforce-diversity-challenges/
2) Oregon: Portland Office of Equity & Human Rights Hiring Disability Digital Access Coordinator
March 8th 2021 deadline to apply. | Salary: $55,370.00 - $102,648.00 Annually | Learn more at:https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/portlandor/jobs/2969963/disability-digital-access-coordinator-coordinator-ii#details-info
➜ Press Releases
1) National Federation of the Blind Performing Arts Division Delivering Singing Telegrams to Those You Love on Valentine's Day for Only $5!
On Sunday, February 14th, The National Federation of the Blind Performing Arts Division will be delivering singing telegrams to those you love for a donation of only $5. Send them to your spouse, partner, kids, grandparents, friends, neighbors, etc. Share the love with anyone. Because of the pandemic, many celebrations and gatherings are put on hold for the time-being, so you can brighten up someone's day by giving them something small to put a smile on their face, no contact necessary. Requests must be submitted by 8:00 PM EST on Friday, February 12th 2021:http://www.nfb-pad.org/telegrams
2) Comcast Provides Update on Decade-Long Commitment to Digital Equity. Announces Plans to Accelerate Efforts in 2021
Comcast made several announcements last week regarding its commitment to advancing digital equity, closing the digital divide, and addressing both digital literacy and the homework gap:https://corporate.comcast.com/press/releases/comcast-update-commitment-digital-equity-accelerate-efforts-2021
3) Invitation to Participate in Research on Accessibility and Usability of a Digital Library in Mobile Environment
A research team comprising blind and sighted scholars at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee is investigating the accessibility and usability of a digital library (DL) for users who are blind. The goal is to create digital library design guidelines to design DL in mobile environment that aid blind and visually impaired people in the effective search for information online via iPhone interface. You can earn a $100 gift card for participating in the study. Find out if you're eligible here:https://sites.uwm.edu/bvi/2018/11/15/invitation-to-participate-in-research-on-evaluating-digital-library-accessibility-and-usability-guidelines-blind-and-visually-impaired-users/
4) LibreOffice 7.1 Community Released by The Document Foundation
A brand new version of the free open source office suite, based on the LibreOffice Technology platform for desktop, mobile and cloud productivity is now available. The Community label underlines the fact that the software is not targeted at enterprises, and not optimized for their support needs. LibreOffice 7.1 Community, the volunteer-supported version of the open source office suite for desktop productivity, is now available for download from:https://www.libreoffice.org/download
➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: Humanware Braillenote Touch 32 Notetaker and Display
Listing Date: 1/26/2021 | Price: $1,885.00 USD | Condition: New | Description: This is a new in retail box with accessories Humanware Braillenote Touch 32 Notetaker and Braille Display for iPhone/Android/Computer/Mac. It is not used. Comes with everything. Only asking $1885 o.b.o. | Contact Chris at: cs567eml@gmail.com 📧️ or (408) 659-1374 📱️ |2) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Accessible Pharmacy, the new, home delivery pharmacy with a blind founder, is bringing its full range of support and services to Be My Eyes. Users of the Be My Eyes app can now call Accessible Pharmacy directly to get support with medication, medical devices, and even home delivery COVID testing. With a fully trained and discreet pharmacy staff on call from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Pacific, Accessible Pharmacy is the new way for blind and low vision consumers to get an easy, frictionless pharmacy experience. Call today — and you'll never have to take an Uber to the drugstore again.
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: Sprint IP Relay
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
One challenge someone with a combined vision and hearing loss must address is accessing the phone system without adequate vision or hearing. Individuals with no hearing but vision can access the phone system using a videophone. Those with no vision, but who have hearing can use the phone as it was intended. How would someone with vision and hearing loss continue to call doctors, contact emergency services such as 911, arrange for medical appointments, contact businesses, or friends and family who do not text? One solution, for those living in the U.S. with a form of hearing loss, is Sprint IP Relay. Come learn more at our webinars, specialized for the DeafBlind community. To learn more send an email to deafblind@sprint.com. CART and ASL interpretation will be provided.
Sponsor Since: October 22nd 2020
Website: https://www.sprintip.com/ 🌐
Email: scott.davert@t-mobile.com 📧️
Download The App (iOS):
Sprint IP Relay for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Sprint IP Relay for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Accessibility Customer Care: (800) 676-3777 📱️
About: Sprint IP Relay allows people who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind or with a Speech Disability to make or receive phone calls using an internet connection, a computer, tablet or smartphone. Simply type what you want to say to the operator, the operator relays the message to the person you called and then types the caller's response back to you. This process is all done through text, so a user with a braille display, for example, would not need to see the screen or use their voice to communicate with the hearing caller. The Sprint IP Relay service is available at no charge for those who are eligible. Registration is required to verify an individual's identity and residency. If you are a person who is deaf, hard of hearing, DeafBlind or have a speech disability, you will qualify to register for the Sprint IP Relay Service. The user can call anyone at any time within the United States and its territories. Email scott.davert@t-mobile.com with any questions.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Revolution Cane Tip: Standard Roller Tip: $14.50 | Locator Dots: Small Pack of 6 (Clear or Orange): $2.00 | NFB Metal Cane Tip: $3.00 | TMAP - On Demand Tactile Street | Map (set of two maps): $25.00 | Ambutech Aluminum Folding Cane: $35.00 | NFB Chris Park Telescoping Cane: $45.00 | BoldWriter 20 Pen (Individual or 6-pack): $2.00 | Bump Dots: Mixed (50 count): $7.00 | Braille Apple Catalina VoiceOver Guide OSX 10.15 (3 volumes) - Latest Manual: $52.00 | SpeedDots iPhone Tactile Screen Protector, Phone Layout: $12.00 | NFB Chris Park 7-Piece Folding Cane: $50.00 | Visit https://adaptations.org/ to learn more today!
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Code JumperTM is a fully accessible and inclusive computer coding innovation, originally designed by Microsoft® and developed by APH (for Windows, Chromebook, and Android devices)! With Code Jumper, students across the vision spectrum can learn the basics of computer programming and computational thinking by tactually creating computer code that can tell stories and make music. Learn more at:
https://www.aph.org/product/code-jumper/.
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Mystery Gadget or Doggy Bags; Through Jan. 31, we will double the value of your choice of $25 or $50 gadgets-leather or "all-things-dog" grab bags. Our new shoulder lambskin patchwork tablet and Braille display case will hold just about anything you need for a day $50; form fitting BN Touch Plus leather case $60; new $10 Stream pouch or new Orbit Writer and Phone "On the Go" pouch; write as you walk $35.00; ask about other bag deals. New! Evo 10 Daisy Player with Internet and FM Radio, Podcatcher, lots more; Ivona Joey and Sally; Mystic Access tutorial, leather case, $225. Call Barry:
(617) 969-7500 📱️ | bscheur@scheur.com.
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
If you're like me, you probably have more things to plug into your computer than available ports. That's why we've now added the Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub. Plug it into your laptop and you will get 3 USB ports, SD and Micro SD card slots, a USBC charging port, and an HDMI video port. It's available now for just $29.95:
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: John Panarese
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
COVID has brought us some very daunting challenges! But this has not stopped John Panarese from solving the great mystery! His technical offerings will help you to better understand and navigate the world of Apple devices! Visit https://macfortheblind.com/ to learn more today!
Director, https://www.MacForTheBlind.com
Authorized Apple Business Affiliate
Apple Certified Support Professional
Apple Certified Trainer
Assistive Technology Consultant
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://www.macfortheblind.com/ 🌐
Donate Course Time: https://donorbox.org/macfortheblind ❤
Email: john@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: Donna Jodhan
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Author, Donna Jodhan Publications
President, Sterling Creations
President, Barrier Free Canada / Canada sans Barrieres
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://donnajodhan.com/ 🌐
Donate: https://donorbox.org/author-donna-jodhan ❤
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: Dean Martineau
➜ 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 if interested at:
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: Humanware
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The wait is over! A redefined family of Brailliant refreshable Braille displays has arrived! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series will help you stay connected, download books from many participating online libraries and share information easily with your peers. You will enjoy the intuitive, seamless user experience of KeySoft Lite, the HumanWare flagship accessibility suite designed to make you more productive. Including the Brailliant BI 40X and the Brailliant BI 20X, this is the Brailliant idea you need!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/070120211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Do you keep using the same Magnification or Screen-reading software you've always used because it's the very best or because migrating is scary? If you're an assessor, are you recommending what's best for your client, or what you're comfortable teaching? SuperNova 20 is hands down better than the competition in every single way, features, stability and you don't need a gaming-speed computer to run it. Give it a try FREE for 30 Days! Learn more and download the trial at:
https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/news?id=500
Sponsor Since: January 28th 2021
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Phone (USA & Canada): +1 (866) 797-5921 📱️
Phone (UK, Europe & Asia): +44 01905 754577 📱️
Phone (Nordic & Baltic Contries): +46 0515 82175 📱️
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of GuideConnect
GuideConnect Trial
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of SuperNova
SuperNova Trial
About: Dolphin Computer Access offers a wide array of solutions for students, people in the workforce, and at home who are blind, visually impaired or have dyslexia. Each product is purposefully designed to help users, with varying levels of technology experience, do everyday things EASILY on computers and tablets. Founded in 1986 and located in Worcester England, Dolphin has grown to become a global market leader worldwide.
Sponsor: Vorail
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
24-hour peer-to-peer tech support in voice, and much more. Get answers to just about anything you need to know, whether it is blindness related or not, and make incredible friends. Follow who you like, mute those you don't. We're not alone in this blindness thing. Ask-alls range from "How to do X from an accessibility standpoint?" to "What do you keep in your bed other than yourself?" to "What word would you use to describe 2020? to "What word to describe your hopes for 2021?". Vorail is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
https://vorail.com/toptechtidbits
Sponsor Since: January 21st 2021
Website: https://www.vorail.com/toptechtidbits/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Vorail for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Vorail for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Mission: Vorail is the only platform in the world for the low vision and blind community where everybody can join conversations by voice on equal footing. Every day members of the Vorail community create ask-alls (questions) about life (news, health, technology, religion, sports and more) that allow us to see the world differently, and connect in a way that is deeper than 'liking' a photo. Vorail is an audio-only experience, voice is the window into a human soul. It does not matter if you are tall, short, wide, thin, white, or black when nobody sees your picture. Without the visuals, what counts is who you are, the person inside. That is the mission of Vorail, to create an extended family where we are judged for who we are, not what we look like.
Your Name Here
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, February 4, 2021 - Volume 793 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, February 4, 2021 - Volume 793
The Week's News in Access Technologyhttps://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: GuideConnect Provides Access to Computing Tasks People with Visual Impairments Need to Stay Independent & Digitally Connected
There's a new tool in town that's giving people who are blind or visually impaired access to all of the things they want to be able to do on the computer without the complexities of a screen-reader. GuideConnect's menu-driven, closed, computing-environment eliminates the navigation barriers many users face as they move from application to application and task to task. GuideConnect users successfully manage their email, surf the web, stream movie services, read and download books and newspapers through services like BARD and Newsline (which are directly connected within GuideConnect), listen to their favorite radio stations and podcasts, magnify or scan their paper mail and so much more. And now, GuideConnect has added video calling! GuideConnect users can call other users, as well as family and friends who don't use GuideConnect. Learn more and download the 30-Day Free Trial at:https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/products/individuals/guide-connect
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Secret Hotkey Opens Windows 10's New Emoji Picker in Any App: (13.3% of all clicks.)https://www.howtogeek.com/351344/how-to-use-windows-10%E2%80%99s-new-emoji-picker-in-any-app/
B.) YouTube Channel for VoiceOver Training: (11.2% of all clicks.)
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLCgk4Ja4_u4K6UE2KjSvm211Guv0cGRAZ
C.) Pazera Free Audio Extractor. Free Audio Converter: (8.7% of all clicks.)
https://www.pazera-software.com/products/audio-extractor/
D.) Watch this YouTube video on how to use GoodMaps Explorer and O&M Skills to get to a restaurant: (5.8% of all clicks.)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F-AMJcwqsrQ&feature=youtu.be E.) New Braille Devices from HumanWare: Windows and iOS: (5.5% of all clicks.)
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/070120211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-EN.htm
2) COVID-19 Resources by Accessibility Type
Anyone seeking authoritative information about COVID-19 in accessible formats may find useful the resources produced by the Center for Inclusive Design and Innovation (CIDI) at Georgia Tech. Subjects include symptoms, testing, use of masks, and how to protect your service animal. Materials are available in accessible Word documents, PDF, and hardcopy braille. The project was made possible with funding from the CDC Foundation. Resources on the site are adapted and accessible versions of the CDC's COVID-19 guidance:https://cidi.gatech.edu/covid
3) Features and Accessibility of the Top Three Remote Meeting Platforms: Zoom, Teams, and Meet
This article comes to us from Web Friendly Help:https://webfriendlyhelp.com/features-and-accessibility-of-the-top-three-remote-meeting-platforms-zoom-teams-and-meet/
4) Chrome vs. Firefox vs. Microsoft Edge: Which Browser Gobbles Up the Most RAM?
An informative article from Tom's Guide:https://www.tomsguide.com/news/chrome-firefox-edge-ram-comparison
5) It's Back! Accessible Apps Releases Chicken Nugget version 4.71, Bringing AI Image Descriptions, New Sounds, and More
This has been a popular Twitter client among blind users, and many are pleased to have it back: https://www.blindbargains.com/bargains.php?m=220606) This A Cappella Group is Scarily Good at Imitating Windows Sound Effects
Something a little different, courtesy of The Verge:https://www.theverge.com/22252590/maytree-a-cappella-group-windows-10-singing
7) CAPTCHA Be Gone: Solve CAPTCHAs by Browser Extension
This $3.50 per month subscription service has gotten consistently positive reviews. Solves an unlimited number of CAPTCHAs with a single keystroke. Currently available for the Firefox, Chrome, and Internet Explorer browsers and is also accessible to all modern Windows screen readers, including JAWS, NVDA, Narrator, Super Nova, System Access, and Window Eyes:https://captchabegone.com/
8) AWARE App Aims To Help Visually Impaired Explore Their Surroundings Independently
The app, by Sensible Innovations, offers turn-by-turn descriptive navigation for users, who can place their phone in their pocket and listen as the app announces places they pass. The AWARE app works with Sensible Innovations Electronic Stickers, to provide indoor directions and descriptions crafted with a visually impaired focus. The AWARE app is built with large fonts and high contrast or for a Braille display for those who prefer to read, and is completely audible for non-visual users. Learn more here:https://coolblindtech.com/aware-app-helps-visually-impaired-explore-their-surroundings-independently/
9) Samsung and Apple Upcoming Smart Watches May Allow Blood Glucose Monitoring
After bringing blood oxygen saturation, ECG, and blood pressure measurement to their smartwatches, Apple and Samsung have reportedly set their sights on another impressive feature for their upcoming smartwatches - blood sugar (or glucose) level measurement:https://pocketnow.com/samsung-and-apples-upcoming-smartwatches-might-allow-blood-glucose-monitoring
10) The Right Way to Rescue a Soaking Wet Smartphone
Wired Magazine insists that given the hundreds of ways your phone could come into life-threatening contact with liquid, that you should know what to do when it happens. And if you're thinking rice, well, let's just say that science can provide a better method:https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-rescue-a-wet-phone/
11) Using Twitterrific on the Mac with VoiceOver Demo
In this YouTube demo Herbert Allen takes you through the different tabs and menus for creating, replying, retweeting and much more. This video is intended to help blind individuals who only rely on hearing the speech output. Users with vision will not get any screen activity from this demo:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4oMkHSgXO0&feature=youtu.be
12) Apple is Bringing iCloud Keychain to the PC via a Chrome Extension
A new update to iCloud for Windows suggests iCloud Keychain is coming to Chrome on PC:https://www.imore.com/apple-bringing-icloud-keychain-pc-chrome-extension
13) How GoodMaps is Revolutionizing Accessible Independent Travel
The concept of accessible indoor navigation, while well discussed in the disability community, is still in its infancy when it comes to implementation. GoodMaps is working to change that:https://www.aph.org/how-goodmaps-is-revolutionizing-accessible-independent-travel/
14) APH Addresses iOS 14.4 Mantis and Chameleon Issues
APH reports that there are connection issues for the Mantis and Chameleon after upgrading to iOS 14.4. They are recommending that you turn off automatic updates and do not upgrade to 14.4 until a resolution has been found. This is a regression introduced by Apple in this release. APH has alerted Apple to this issue during 14.4 beta testing and they hope that Apple will correct it in a possible 14.4.1 release. Learn more here:https://www.aph.org/ios-14-4-mantis-and-chameleon-issues/
15) Internet Archive Program for People with Print Disabilities
Gain access to millions of books without a waitlist, all in digital formats that are fully accessible. If you have a disability that interferes with reading printed text then all of these books can be instantaneously available in your browser or via protected download. Applying for access is free but requires an archive.org account, which is also free. Learn more here:https://archive.org/details/printdisabled&tab=about
16) Now Available: Screenreader Compatible Versions of CC Cleaner for PC and Mac
For those that don't know what it is CC Cleaner is a small but effective utility for computers running Microsoft Windows, and now Mac as well, that cleans out the "junk" that accumulates on every device over time: temporary files, broken shortcuts, and other problems. Well it has been reported that recent versions of CCleaner now work a lot better with Voiceover and Windows screenreaders. Learn more here:https://www.ccleaner.com/knowledge/out-now-ccleaner-v572-compatible-with-the-worlds-most-popular-screen-reading-technologies
17) Testers Needed for Bookshare's Alexa Skill | 55 Years or Older
Alexa is joining the Bookshare family and they need your help. If you are 55 years or older you can help test the new skill. You will need to complete a survey to qualify:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1e323APf84pkw_mZhfo0-Ke-4UzwzdGF4Ds4Su_tsR24/viewform?edit_requested=true
➜ Podcasts
1) Mosen At Large Episode 92
January 27th 2021 | Listen to an interview with Microsoft Seeing AI founder Saqib Shaikh, and a walk around Mosen Towers to demonstrate Seeing AI's World Channel:https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/a308aae0/interview-with-microsoft-seeing-ai-founder-saqib-shaikh-and-a-walk-around-mosen-towers-to-demonstrate-seeing-ai-s-world-channel
2) Blind Tech Guys | Phones, Phones, And More Phones
February 2nd 2021 | On this week's episode they discuss the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra and the iPhone 12 Pro Max and their thoughts on both of these devices. They also talked about Seeing AI and Super LiDAR with Nimer demonstrating both apps:https://www.blindtechguys.com/71
3) Eyes on Success #2106 | Smart Phones Get Even Smarter
February 3rd 2021 | Today's Apple devices make use of advanced AI technologies to provide new features that can be particularly useful to people with vision loss. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Apple's Accessibility Evangelist Dean Hudson about some of these new and innovative features, how they work, and how you might benefit from using them:http://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202106.htm
➜ Webinars and Training Courses
1) Mac For The Blind Announces the Continuation of Mac for the Blind Online Courses
Courses include: "Welcome to Your Mac," The VoiceOver Utility and the Commanders Features on the Mac," "What is an Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP)," "Using Safari and VoiceOver in iOS," "You ask me all about the Mac," "VoiceOver and Finder on the Mac," and "You ask me all about iOS." 4 of these courses are free to join. 3 these courses have a $20.00 registration fee. Paid courses will have additional benefits not available with the free courses. The courses will take place throughout the months of February, March and April 2021. Learn more and register here:https://macfortheblind.com/?page_id=3813
2) Mac Cafe Permanent Schedule
Group sessions where individual help is available for new Mac users now take place on the first and third Mondays of each month. | 7:30 AM PT, 8:30 AM MT, 9:30 AM CT, 10:30 AM ET, 11:30 AM GMT 4:30 PM GMT:.https://sturitup.com/2021/02/01/maccafe-is-here-to-stay/
3) List of Free February 2021 AT Webinars from the Accessible Technology Coalition
Thanks to the Accessible Technology Coalition for compiling this listing of free webinars from around the Web. You can follow the ATC Facebook page for late additions. Each is one hour unless noted. Pre-registration is sometimes required. Fifteen options for this short winter month, especially thanks to SETC in Washington. Many are recorded and archived if you miss them:https://at3centerblog.com/2021/02/01/free-at-webinars-february-2021/
4) Intro to Zoom with Accessibility in Mind
February 4th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | From the New York Public Library, this meeting will provide lots of tips. Register here:https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIpcumurTkuH911q56EfcQnQ3LD8-jC-z7u
5) Webinar from the Technology User Group (TUG) of the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled | New & Exciting Apps
February 6th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | Technology User Group will demonstrate new and useful apps for your smart device. Learn which apps are going to make a difference in your everyday life and which ones to avoid. They will also demonstrate how to make it easier to fill in repetitious information with just a couple keystrokes using your virtual keyboard. The presentation will be virtual and may be joined by calling (319) 527-4994 📱️. Duration is approximately 90 minutes. You do not have to RSVP for this event:https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
6) Webinar from Florida Vision Technology | Meet The New Envision Glasses
February 9th 2021 | 1PM PT, 2PM MT, 3PM CT, 4PM ET, 9PM GMT | Envision glasses are AI for the eye. They use the power of speech to make everyday life more accessible for any visual impairment. Register here:https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_SFjNkFGVRlCVjfJ3LeZfeQ
7) Webinar from the Braillists Foundation | Using Braille as a Presentation Tool
February 9th 2021 | 11:30 AM PT, 12:30 PM MT, 1:30 PM CT, 2:30 PM ET, 7:30 PM GMT | This session will cover using a braille display with Microsoft PowerPoint and Google Slides. We'll guide you through how braille output works with these applications and the ways in which braille output can enable you to deliver more effective presentations. Register here:https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwoceivqz8rGtbEERfYGlXFSR2eIqx-oc9o
8) Webinar from Vispero | Assistive Technology and Accessibility Showcase
February 9th and 10th 2021 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Join representatives from Vispero's hardware, software, and consulting teams for a free two-day webinar. They'll cover the latest and greatest from each brand: Freedom Scientific, Enhanced Vision, Optelec, and The Paciello Group:https://vispero.com/events/vispero-assistive-technology-and-accessibility-showcase/
9) 2021 Online AT Fundamentals Course
February 22nd 2021 - March 17th 2021 | 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 12AM GMT | The AT Fundamentals Course helps candidates review and refresh their assistive technology knowledge and may help identify areas they need to study for the ATP exam, but this is not an ATP exam prep course. This course will be an online instructor-led course designed as a convenient, cost-efficient and effective way for busy AT professionals to participate. | Online Mondays & Wednesdays from 7:00 PM ET - 9:00 PM ET | Registration Fees: $650 RESNA members, $800 nonmembers, $550 RESNA members, without book, $700 nonmembers, without book. Register here:https://resna.ps.membersuite.com/events/ViewEvent.aspx?contextID=0baafe32-0078-c746-d848-195740d3acb8
10) Training Course from Hartgen Consultancy | Winning Teams! Using Microsoft Teams with JAWS for Windows
March 17th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | Cost: £150.00 / $205.00 USD | Four training sessions starting on Wednesday, March 17th 2021 and then weekly each Wednesday thereafter. If you cannot make a live session, you will have access to the recording of it shortly after. Requirements, registration and what you will receive available here:http://www.hartgen.org/teams
➜ Press Releases
1) Blind Driver Challenge: National Federation of the Blind In Collaboration with Dan Parker to Attempt to Break the Guinness Book of World Records for the "Fastest Speed for a Car Driven Blindfolded" in the Fall of 2021
The National Federation of the Blind is celebrating the ten year anniversary of the Blind Driver Challenge by accelerating it this year. They are collaborating with Dan Parker to build and operate a car to attempt to break the Guinness Book of World Records for the "Fastest Speed for a Car Driven Blindfolded" in the fall of 2021, anticipating reaching a speed of over two hundred miles per hour. Learn more here:https://www.nfb.org/programs-services/center-excellence-nonvisual-access/blind-driver-challenge
2) What's New in Duxbury DBT?
January 19th 2021 update. Duxbury Systems continually revises DBT to add new features, fix problems, and to respond to changes in braille rules, embosser and operating system updates, and third party changes. Below you will find their latest advances since the prior release:https://www.duxburysystems.com/dbt_new.asp?f3=USA
3) City University of New York (CUNY) 12th Annual Accessibility Conference Call for Proposals
Perspectives on Access: Innovations, Lessons Learned, and Looking Forward. April 6th to 9th 2021. CUNY is currently inviting proposals for engaging presentations that will foster meaningful discussion on a range of topics. Proposals are due by February 16th 2021 at 12:00 PM EST. Presentations will be 50 minutes, including questions and answers. You will be notified by the committee regarding the acceptance of your proposal by February 23rd 2021. Learn more here:https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=s_BgbwZfCU6XFZiduozH2I_mhufqVMhKkF6nbAPJwLhUNE5FUDM1WllVQUs4TVFTOVhORzFOR1lWUyQlQCN0PWcu
➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: Humanware Braillenote Touch 32 Notetaker and Display
Listing Date: 1/26/2021 | Price: $1,885.00 USD | Condition: New | Description: This is a new in retail box with accessories Humanware Braillenote Touch 32 Notetaker and Braille Display for iPhone/Android/Computer/Mac. It is not used. Comes with everything. Only asking $1885 o.b.o. | Contact Chris at: cs567eml@gmail.com 📧️ or (408) 659-1374 📱️ |2) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: Sprint IP Relay
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
One challenge someone with a combined vision and hearing loss must address is accessing the phone system without adequate vision or hearing. Individuals with no hearing but vision can access the phone system using a videophone. Those with no vision, but who have hearing can use the phone as it was intended. How would someone with vision and hearing loss continue to call doctors, contact emergency services such as 911, arrange for medical appointments, contact businesses, or friends and family who do not text? One solution, for those living in the U.S. with a form of hearing loss, is Sprint IP Relay. Come learn more at our webinars, specialized for the DeafBlind community. To learn more send an email to deafblind@sprint.com. CART and ASL interpretation will be provided.
Sponsor Since: October 22nd 2020
Website: https://www.sprintip.com/ 🌐
Email: scott.davert@t-mobile.com 📧️
Download The App (iOS):
Sprint IP Relay for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Sprint IP Relay for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Accessibility Customer Care: (800) 676-3777 📱️
About: Sprint IP Relay allows people who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind or with a Speech Disability to make or receive phone calls using an internet connection, a computer, tablet or smartphone. Simply type what you want to say to the operator, the operator relays the message to the person you called and then types the caller's response back to you. This process is all done through text, so a user with a braille display, for example, would not need to see the screen or use their voice to communicate with the hearing caller. The Sprint IP Relay service is available at no charge for those who are eligible. Registration is required to verify an individual's identity and residency. If you are a person who is deaf, hard of hearing, DeafBlind or have a speech disability, you will qualify to register for the Sprint IP Relay Service. The user can call anyone at any time within the United States and its territories. Email scott.davert@t-mobile.com with any questions.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Revolution Cane Tip: Standard Roller Tip: $14.50 | Locator Dots: Small Pack of 6 (Clear or Orange): $2.00 | NFB Metal Cane Tip: $3.00 | TMAP - On Demand Tactile Street | Map (set of two maps): $25.00 | Ambutech Aluminum Folding Cane: $35.00 | NFB Chris Park Telescoping Cane: $45.00 | BoldWriter 20 Pen (Individual or 6-pack): $2.00 | Bump Dots: Mixed (50 count): $7.00 | Braille Apple Catalina VoiceOver Guide OSX 10.15 (3 volumes) - Latest Manual: $52.00 | SpeedDots iPhone Tactile Screen Protector, Phone Layout: $12.00 | NFB Chris Park 7-Piece Folding Cane: $50.00 | Visit https://adaptations.org/ to learn more today!
Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Code JumperTM is a fully accessible and inclusive computer coding innovation, originally designed by Microsoft® and developed by APH (for Windows, Chromebook, and Android devices)! With Code Jumper, students across the vision spectrum can learn the basics of computer programming and computational thinking by tactually creating computer code that can tell stories and make music. Learn more at:
https://www.aph.org/product/code-jumper/.
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Mystery Gadget or Doggy Bags; Through Jan. 31, we will double the value of your choice of $25 or $50 gadgets-leather or "all-things-dog" grab bags. Our new shoulder lambskin patchwork tablet and Braille display case will hold just about anything you need for a day $50; form fitting BN Touch Plus leather case $60; new $10 Stream pouch or new Orbit Writer and Phone "On the Go" pouch; write as you walk $35.00; ask about other bag deals. New! Evo 10 Daisy Player with Internet and FM Radio, Podcatcher, lots more; Ivona Joey and Sally; Mystic Access tutorial, leather case, $225. Call Barry:
(617) 969-7500 📱️ | bscheur@scheur.com.
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
If you're like me, you probably have more things to plug into your computer than available ports. That's why we've now added the Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub. Plug it into your laptop and you will get 3 USB ports, SD and Micro SD card slots, a USBC charging port, and an HDMI video port. It's available now for just $29.95:
https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: John Panarese
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
See how John Panarese, world-renowned Apple Trainer and Consultant, is fighting back! He is using his endless talents to help others cope with technology! Through his gift certificates you can purchase very affordable tutorials and courses! To purchase your special gift certificate visit:
https://donorbox.org/macfortheblind
Director, https://www.MacForTheBlind.com
Authorized Apple Business Affiliate
Apple Certified Support Professional
Apple Certified Trainer
Assistive Technology Consultant
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://www.macfortheblind.com/ 🌐
Donate Course Time: https://donorbox.org/macfortheblind ❤
Email: john@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: Donna Jodhan
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Donna Jodhan is a well known coach and tutor to persons with disabilities! She is an Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP) and continues to mentor families in need of extra tutoring! Now she is helping families to clear the Covid Clutter! See how she does it! Visit her at:
https://donorbox.org/author-donna-jodhan
Author, Donna Jodhan Publications
President, Sterling Creations
President, Barrier Free Canada / Canada sans Barrieres
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://donnajodhan.com/ 🌐
Donate: https://donorbox.org/author-donna-jodhan ❤
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: Dean Martineau
➜ 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 if interested at:
topdot@gmail.com
Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: Humanware
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The wait is over! A redefined family of Brailliant refreshable Braille displays has arrived! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series will help you stay connected, download books from many participating online libraries and share information easily with your peers. You will enjoy the intuitive, seamless user experience of KeySoft Lite, the HumanWare flagship accessibility suite designed to make you more productive. Including the Brailliant BI 40X and the Brailliant BI 20X, this is the Brailliant idea you need!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/070120211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Do you keep using the same Magnification or Screen-reading software you've always used because it's the very best or because migrating is scary? If you're an assessor, are you recommending what's best for your client, or what you're comfortable teaching? SuperNova 20 is hands down better than the competition in every single way, features, stability and you don't need a gaming-speed computer to run it. Give it a try FREE for 30 Days! Learn more and download the trial at:
https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/news?id=500
Sponsor Since: January 28th 2021
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Phone (USA & Canada): +1 (866) 797-5921 📱️
Phone (UK, Europe & Asia): +44 01905 754577 📱️
Phone (Nordic & Baltic Contries): +46 0515 82175 📱️
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of GuideConnect
GuideConnect Trial
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of SuperNova
SuperNova Trial
About: Dolphin Computer Access offers a wide array of solutions for students, people in the workforce, and at home who are blind, visually impaired or have dyslexia. Each product is purposefully designed to help users, with varying levels of technology experience, do everyday things EASILY on computers and tablets. Founded in 1986 and located in Worcester England, Dolphin has grown to become a global market leader worldwide.
Sponsor: Vorail
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
24-hour peer-to-peer tech support in voice, and much more. Get answers to just about anything you need to know, whether it is blindness related or not, and make incredible friends. Follow who you like, mute those you don't. We're not alone in this blindness thing. Ask-alls range from "How to do X from an accessibility standpoint?" to "What do you keep in your bed other than yourself?" to "What word would you use to describe 2020? to "What word to describe your hopes for 2021?". Vorail is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
https://vorail.com/toptechtidbits
Sponsor Since: January 21st 2021
Website: https://www.vorail.com/toptechtidbits/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Vorail for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Vorail for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Mission: Vorail is the only platform in the world for the low vision and blind community where everybody can join conversations by voice on equal footing. Every day members of the Vorail community create ask-alls (questions) about life (news, health, technology, religion, sports and more) that allow us to see the world differently, and connect in a way that is deeper than 'liking' a photo. Vorail is an audio-only experience, voice is the window into a human soul. It does not matter if you are tall, short, wide, thin, white, or black when nobody sees your picture. Without the visuals, what counts is who you are, the person inside. That is the mission of Vorail, to create an extended family where we are judged for who we are, not what we look like.
Sponsor: Be My Eyes
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Accessible Pharmacy, the new, home delivery pharmacy with a blind founder, is bringing its full range of support and services to Be My Eyes. Users of the Be My Eyes app can now call Accessible Pharmacy directly to get support with medication, medical devices, and even home delivery COVID testing. With a fully trained and discreet pharmacy staff on call from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Pacific, Accessible Pharmacy is the new way for blind and low vision consumers to get an easy, frictionless pharmacy experience. Call today — and you'll never have to take an Uber to the drugstore again.
https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.
Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, January 28, 2021 - Volume 792 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, January 28, 2021 - Volume 792
The Week's News in Access Technologyhttps://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Top Tech Tidbits. The World's #1 Access Technology Publication. Brought to you by:
This issue made possible by sponsorship support from: Dean Martineau @ TopTechTidbits.com, Donna Jodhan @ DonnaJodhan.com, John Panarese @ MacForTheBlind.com, A. T. Guys @ ATGuys.com, Barry Scheur @ GuideLightsAndGadgets.us, American Printing House @ APH.org, LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store @ Adaptations.org, Sprint IP Relay @ SprintIP.com, Be My Eyes @ BeMyEyes.com, Vorail @ Vorail.com, Dolphin Computer Access @ YourDolphin.com, and HumanWare @ HumanWare.com.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) How to Scan QR Codes on iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch: (11.8% of all clicks.)https://appleinsider.com/articles/21/01/07/how-to-scan-qr-codes-on-iphone
B.) Blind Compass: (7.4% of all clicks.)
https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/blind-compass/id1546647415
C.) How to Search in Windows 10: (7.2% of all clicks.)
https://au.pcmag.com/how-to/52653/how-to-search-in-windows-10
E.) An up-to-date and in-depth Discord guide for Screenreaders: Windows and iOS: (5.7% of all clicks.)
https://www.starshipchangeling.net/discord/
D.) Google's TalkBack Screen Reader is Getting New Features Available First on Galaxy Phones: (5.6% of all clicks.)
https://www.xda-developers.com/google-talkback-screen-reader-galaxy-s21/
2) HumanWare Joins Top Tech Tidbits as 12th and Final Sponsor
We would like to open this week by welcoming aboard our 12th and final Sponsor in the form of HumanWare. From all of us here at Top Tech Tidbits, readers included, we sincerely thank you for your ongoing support. For anyone not familiar with them HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader🗘, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier. Learn more here:http://www.humanware.com/en-usa/home
3) We Would Still Like To Become A Tidbits Sponsor. What Can We Do Now?
If you would still like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor we encourage you to join our waiting list by sending an email to: sponsorships@toptechtidbits.com 📧️. Once you have joined our waiting list we will notify you the next time a current sponsor decides not to renew. You will then be given 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.4) YouTube Channel for VoiceOver Training
This YouTube Playlist is intended to fill the gap for those who may have received incomplete and/or fragmentary training on the gestures. These lessons fill in the gaps:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLCgk4Ja4_u4K6UE2KjSvm211Guv0cGRAZ
5) Holman Prize Submission: Help Pool Knowledge About Accessible Appliances
If Lucie Greko wins the prize, she and others will create a YouTube Channel where people can learn about the accessibility (or lack of it) for large and small appliances that we need to buy:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iBADy6-gDBY&feature=youtu.be
6) GuideConnect 1.15 Update
Users of Dolphin Guide Connect can now easily make video calls. This update brings other enhancements and fixes as well:https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/news?id=497
7) Pazera Free Audio Extractor. Free Audio Converter
This free program just got an upgrade, and might be worth a look:https://www.pazera-software.com/products/audio-extractor/
8) Getting Started With Visual Studio Code Using Screen Readers
This is the first of a proposed series of YouTube videos on accessibility topics:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZCwXDK-QPc&t=76s
9) Good Maps Demo Video
Watch this YouTube video on how to use GoodMaps Explorer and O&M Skills to get to a restaurant:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F-AMJcwqsrQ&feature=youtu.be
10) Audio Descriptions and Accessible Technology Usage Survey
The University of Washington is gathering information for a proposed audio description tool:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSekrpP91pb5K8rmrhPtTZWv7nrzymKHNiTz1zkxbwdStlz1lw/viewform
11) New Braille Devices from HumanWare
HumanWare has launched 2 new Braille Displays, the Brailliant BI 40X and the Brailliant BI 20X. More information can be found at this link:http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/070120211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-EN.htm
12) 2021 State of Accessibility Survey from Level Access | Open Until January 31st 2021
Level Access, the global leader in digital accessibility, in collaboration with G3ict and IAAP, have launched the State of Digital Accessibility survey. This is the third year for the survey, which asks professionals in various roles to describe their organization's commitment to creating inclusive technology, including websites, mobile apps, software, and hardware. As a thanks to the community for taking the time to answer the survey, Level Access is donating $5,000 to a disability-focused non-profit that you choose. The final question of the survey allows you to vote on the non-profit you'd like to receive their donation:https://www.levelaccess.com/sodar2021/
13) Do Accessible Websites Still Need to Support Internet Explorer 11?
As a developer who cares about accessibility, should you or shouldn't you be supporting Internet Explorer 11 (IE11)?https://www.hassellinclusion.com/blog/should-accessible-websites-still-support-ie11/
14) Secret Hotkey Opens Windows 10's New Emoji Picker in Any App
Windows 10 has a hidden emoji picker you can use to type emoji in any application, even desktop programs like Google Chrome, and it's accessible by pressing this short keyboard shortcut combination:https://www.howtogeek.com/351344/how-to-use-windows-10%E2%80%99s-new-emoji-picker-in-any-app/
➜ Podcasts
1) Podcast | Eyes on Success 2105 | Eric Damery and the Changing Field of Assistive Technology
January 27th 2021. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey continue their conversation from last week with Eric Damery, VP of Software Product Management at Freedom Scientific, a Vispero company. This week they discuss how the marketing and distribution of assistive technologies for people with vision loss have evolved over his long career in the field:http://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202105.htm
2) Podcast | Blind Tech Guys #70
Hear about SuperSense and Super Lidar, and a review of the Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro bluetooth in-ear buds:https://share.transistor.fm/s/fe2340c7
➜ Webinars and Training Courses
1) Webinars from the Tech Juggernaut | MacCafe Sessions by Trainer Kliph
These sessions will be held every 1st and 3rd Monday. | 8:30AM PT, 9:30AM MT, 10:30AM CT, 11:30AM ET, 4:30PM GMT | Cord Cutting, Apple Watch and Watch OS, HomePod, Apple Wallet, Apple Pay, Online Security, Financial Health, and iPad For All Computing. Free Courses. To register, put in the subject line of an email TTJ Course Registration and in the body which course you are interested in and send to sturitup@icloud.com 📧️. Learn more at:https://ttjtech.net/2021/01/17/maccafe/
2) Webinar Recording | ATI ZuperSense Zoom Conference
January 21st 2021:https://www.dropbox.com/s/6ctrj338oq97wyb/ATI%20SuperSense%20Zoom%20Conference%2C%20January%2021%2C%202021.mp3?dl=0
3) Webinar Recording | Apple Presentation, Dispelling the Myths
January 22nd 2020. Apple Presentation Dispelling the Myths: Screen Curtain save battery power? Is it ok to leave my phone plugged in over night? How important is the lighting when I use Face ID? And do I really need to force quit my apps all the time? As more and more rumors and myths flood the Apple user community, TTJ is here to set the record straight on some of the most popular and most controversial tech inaccuracies. Listen to this presentation, and we think you'll come away with a much more relaxed approach to using your devices - one that all but guarantees a pleasant experience.https://acb-community.pinecast.co/episode/15a803b4/20210122-apple-presentation-dispelling-the-myths-
4) Webinar from the Network of Assistive Technologists | How Can You Prove That AT Works?
January 29th 2021 | 10:30 AM PT, 11:30 AM MT, 12:30 PM CT, 1:30 PM ET, 6:30 PM GMT | Via: Zoom | Duration: 90 Minutes | The Network of Assistive Technologists welcomes Linda Petty, MSC. OT, OT REG. (ONT.) with an introduction into the rarely addressed topic of Assistive Technology Outcome Measures. Register at:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfVB4zSNPG_qsTW8OQc_PDE3_M-Spn_fn7yNs6CX7ZWdcRLSA/viewform
5) Webinar | SuperSense on Tek Talk
February 2nd 2021 | 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 1AM GMT | The first Tek of February also features the SuperSense app:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/839935813?pwd=eXFMRHpxNnhFZlRiMHAzRWNWYXM3Zz09
6) Webinar from the Technology User Group (TUG) of the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled | New & Exciting Apps
February 6th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | Technology User Group will demonstrate new and useful apps for your smart device. Learn which apps are going to make a difference in your everyday life and which ones to avoid. They will also demonstrate how to make it easier to fill in repetitious information with just a couple keystrokes using your virtual keyboard. The presentation will be virtual and may be joined by calling (319) 527-4994 📱️. Duration is approximately 90 minutes. You do not have to RSVP for this event:https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
7) Webinar from the Braillists Foundation | Using Braille as a Presentation Tool
February 9th 2021 | 11:30 AM PT, 12:30 PM MT, 1:30 PM CT, 2:30 PM ET, 7:30 PM GMT | This session will cover using a braille display with Microsoft PowerPoint and Google Slides. We'll guide you through how braille output works with these applications and the ways in which braille output can enable you to deliver more effective presentations. Register here:https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwoceivqz8rGtbEERfYGlXFSR2eIqx-oc9o
8) Webinar from Vispero | Assistive Technology and Accessibility Showcase
February 9th and 10th 2021 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Join representatives from Vispero's hardware, software, and consulting teams for a free two-day webinar. They'll cover the latest and greatest from each brand: Freedom Scientific, Enhanced Vision, Optelec, and The Paciello Group:https://vispero.com/events/vispero-assistive-technology-and-accessibility-showcase/
9) 2021 Online AT Fundamentals Course
February 22nd 2021 - March 17th 2021 | 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 12AM GMT | The AT Fundamentals Course helps candidates review and refresh their assistive technology knowledge and may help identify areas they need to study for the ATP exam, but this is not an ATP exam prep course. This course will be an online instructor-led course designed as a convenient, cost-efficient and effective way for busy AT professionals to participate. | Online Mondays & Wednesdays from 7:00 PM ET - 9:00 PM ET | Registration Fees: $650 RESNA members, $800 nonmembers, $550 RESNA members, without book, $700 nonmembers, without book. Register here:https://resna.ps.membersuite.com/events/ViewEvent.aspx?contextID=0baafe32-0078-c746-d848-195740d3acb8
10) Training Course from Hartgen Consultancy | Winning Teams! Using Microsoft Teams with JAWS for Windows
March 17th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | Cost: £150.00 / $205.00 USD | Four training sessions starting on Wednesday, March 17th 2021 and then weekly each Wednesday thereafter. If you cannot make a live session, you will have access to the recording of it shortly after. Requirements, registration and what you will receive available here:http://www.hartgen.org/teams
➜ Job Announcements
1) White House Website Makeover Boosts Accessibility And Adds A Secret Message. US Digital Services Could Be Looking For Applicants
The official White House website is getting a makeover, including a sleek dark mode, following the recent inauguration, but unless you're a coder, you may have missed an Easter egg nestled in the site's HTML code. This code is still there as of this writing. Simply view the source code for the page at https://www.whitehouse.gov/ and search for the HTML comment that reads, "If you're reading this, we need your help building back better. https://usds.gov/." The link included in the comment is a link to the US Digital Services' website, an organization meant to help the administration advance technologically. Check out the link or the code itself for more info.2) Job Announcement | Deputy Commissioner of Compliance for the City of Chicago
Annual Salary: $115,656.00. Learn more here:https://www.chicago.gov/content/dam/city/depts/dhr/general/Deputy_Commissioner_.pdf
3) Digital Accessibility Jobs List by WebAxe for January 2021
Many great opportunities in the field of digital accessibility. 13 positions listed. Some remote, some specific to geographic location. Learn more here:http://www.webaxe.org/digital-accessibility-jobs-jan-2021/
➜ Press Releases
1) Fable Partners with Benetech To Bring Accessible Ebooks To International Community of People with Disabilities
Last week Fable announced a partnership with Benetech's Bookshare initiative to provide Fable's community of people with disabilities access to the world's largest library of accessible ebooks. Through the partnership, Fable's community will have unlimited access to a diverse library of 400,000 ebooks to support both personal and professional development:https://www.prweb.com/releases/fable_partners_with_benetech_to_bring_accessible_ebooks_to_international_community_of_people_with_disabilities/prweb17672251.htm
2) What's New From Hartgen Consultancy 2021
Learn of many worthwhile developments in 2021:https://hartgen.org/node/535
3) How Samsung is Shaping Technology Accessibility For All
Samsung continuously collaborates with AFB Consulting to develop accessibility advancements for a quality user experience for people with disabilities. These advancements are accomplished not only through the use of expert accessibility engineers, but also focus groups consisting of users who are blind or visually impaired to provide authentic usability insights:https://news.samsung.com/us/samsung-shaping-technology-accessibility/
➜ Buy, Sell or Trade
1) FOR SALE: Humanware Braillenote Touch 32 Notetaker and Display
Listing Date: 1/26/2021 | Price: $1,885.00 USD | Condition: New | Description: This is a new in retail box with accessories Humanware Braillenote Touch 32 Notetaker and Braille Display for iPhone/Android/Computer/Mac. It is not used. Comes with everything. Only asking $1885 o.b.o. | Contact Chris at: cs567eml@gmail.com 📧️ or (408) 659-1374 📱️ |2) FOR SALE: Focus 14 Blue 5th Gen
Listing Date: 1/7/2021 | Price: $980.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used | Description: This is for a Focus 14 Blue 5th Gen Braille display only about 6 months old. All accessories are included Case and USB C cable included. Still under 2-year warrantee. Will ship free in the US. No signs of use. Appears to be new. | Contact: braille@stradone.net 📧️ |3) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short 10-step form ✔ to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html 🌐 |Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Featured Products: Revolution Cane Tip: Standard Roller Tip: $14.50 | Locator Dots: Small Pack of 6 (Clear or Orange): $2.00 | NFB Metal Cane Tip: $3.00 | TMAP - On Demand Tactile Street | Map (set of two maps): $25.00 | Ambutech Aluminum Folding Cane: $35.00 | NFB Chris Park Telescoping Cane: $45.00 | BoldWriter 20 Pen (Individual or 6-pack): $2.00 | Bump Dots: Mixed (50 count): $7.00 | Braille Apple Catalina VoiceOver Guide OSX 10.15 (3 volumes) - Latest Manual: $52.00 | SpeedDots iPhone Tactile Screen Protector, Phone Layout: $12.00 | NFB Chris Park 7-Piece Folding Cane: $50.00 | Visit https://adaptations.org/ to learn more today!Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Get Coding with Code JumperTM - a fully accessible and inclusive computer coding innovation, originally designed by Microsoft® and developed by APH (for Windows, Chromebook, and Android devices)! With Code Jumper, students across the vision spectrum can learn the basics of computer programming and computational thinking by tactually creating computer code that can tell stories and make music. Learn more at:https://www.aph.org/product/code-jumper/.
Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
GuideLights And Gadgets: New Year, Products, Pricing. Mystery Gadget or Doggy Bags; Through Jan. 31, we will double the value of your choice of $25 or $50 gadgets-leather or "all-things-dog" grab bags. Our new shoulder lambskin patchwork tablet and Braille display case will hold just about anything you need for a day $50; form fitting BN Touch Plus leather case $60; new $10 Stream pouch or new Orbit Writer and Phone "On the Go" pouch; write as you walk $35.00; ask about other bag deals. New! Evo 10 Daisy Player with Internet and FM Radio, Podcatcher, lots more; Ivona Joey and Sally; Mystic Access tutorial, leather case, $225. Call Barry: (617) 969-7500 📱️; bscheur@scheur.com.Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
If you're like me, you probably have more things to plug into your computer than available ports. That's why we've now added the Plugable USBC 7-in-1 Hub. Plug it into your laptop and you will get 3 USB ports, SD and Micro SD card slots, a USBC charging port, and an HDMI video port. It's available now for just $29.95:https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: John Panarese
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
A great way to kick off 2021! World renowned Apple trainer John Panarese offers you a way to get involved in the Apple world! Take advantage of his tutorials and courses! John will use your funds to help persons with disabilities to learn more! To purchase your special gift certificate visit:https://www.macfortheblind.com/
Director, https://www.MacForTheBlind.com
Authorized Apple Business Affiliate
Apple Certified Support Professional
Apple Certified Trainer
Assistive Technology Consultant
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://www.macfortheblind.com/ 🌐
Donate Course Time: https://donorbox.org/macfortheblind ❤
Email: john@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: Donna Jodhan
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
High profile educator, podcast commentator, and audio mysteries writer and producer! Donna Jodhan uses her expertise worldwide to ensure that persons with disabilities are not left out or left behind! Visit Donna at https://donorbox.org/author-donna-jodhan. Your donations will help to improve the lives of families with parents and kids with disabilities!Author, Donna Jodhan Publications
President, Sterling Creations
President, Barrier Free Canada / Canada sans Barrieres
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://donnajodhan.com/ 🌐
Donate: https://donorbox.org/author-donna-jodhan ❤
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: Dean Martineau
➜ 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.Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: Be My Eyes
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Accessible Pharmacy, the new, home delivery pharmacy with a blind founder, is bringing its full range of support and services to Be My Eyes. Users of the Be My Eyes app can now call Accessible Pharmacy directly to get support with medication, medical devices, and even home delivery COVID testing. With a fully trained and discreet pharmacy staff on call from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Pacific, Accessible Pharmacy is the new way for blind and low vision consumers to get an easy, frictionless pharmacy experience. Call today — and you'll never have to take an Uber to the drugstore again. https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: Vorail
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The true beauty of a person lies within and if you hear our voices, you'll quickly understand.24 hour peer to peer tech support in voice, and much more. Get answers to just about anything you need to know, whether it is blindness related or not, and make incredible friends. Follow who you like, mute those you don't. We're not alone in this blindness thing. Ask-alls range from "How to do X from an accessibility standpoint?" to "What do you keep in your bed other than yourself?" to "What word would you use to describe 2020? to "What word to describe your hopes for 2021?". Vorail is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
https://vorail.com/toptechtidbits
Sponsor Since: January 21st 2021
Website: https://www.vorail.com/toptechtidbits/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Vorail for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Vorail for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Mission: Vorail is the only platform in the world for the low vision and blind community where everybody can join conversations by voice on equal footing. Every day members of the Vorail community create ask-alls (questions) about life (news, health, technology, religion, sports and more) that allow us to see the world differently, and connect in a way that is deeper than 'liking' a photo. Vorail is an audio-only experience, voice is the window into a human soul. It does not matter if you are tall, short, wide, thin, white, or black when nobody sees your picture. Without the visuals, what counts is who you are, the person inside. That is the mission of Vorail, to create an extended family where we are judged for who we are, not what we look like.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Accessible Video Calling Now Available in Dolphin's GuideConnect!GuideConnect is a Windows program for people with visual impairments who have found screen-readers too complex. It enables users to do common computing tasks-send email, surf the web, download and read books and newspapers from BARD and Newsline, listen to radio and podcasts, and so much more! Now, GuideConnect users can make video calls between users AND to family and friends who don't use GuideConnect! Read the full blog and download GuideConnect FREE for 30 days! Learn more about GuideConnect:
https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/products/individuals/guide-connect
Sponsor Since: January 28th 2021
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Phone (USA & Canada): +1 (866) 797-5921 📱️
Phone (UK, Europe & Asia): +44 01905 754577 📱️
Phone (Nordic & Baltic Contries): +46 0515 82175 📱️
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of GuideConnect
GuideConnect Trial
Download a FREE 30-Day Trial of SuperNova
SuperNova Trial
About: Dolphin Computer Access offers a wide array of solutions for students, people in the workforce, and at home who are blind, visually impaired or have dyslexia. Each product is purposefully designed to help users, with varying levels of technology experience, do everyday things EASILY on computers and tablets. Founded in 1986 and located in Worcester England, Dolphin has grown to become a global market leader worldwide.
Sponsor: Humanware
Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021
Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐
Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-zqIKxAz39o 🎥
About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.
Sponsor: Sprint IP Relay
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
One challenge someone with a combined vision and hearing loss must address is accessing the phone system without adequate vision or hearing. Individuals with no hearing but vision can access the phone system using a videophone. Those with no vision, but who have hearing can use the phone as it was intended. How would someone with vision and hearing loss continue to call doctors, contact emergency services such as 911, arrange for medical appointments, contact businesses, or friends and family who do not text? One solution, for those living in the U.S. with a form of hearing loss, is Sprint IP Relay. Come learn more at our webinars, specialized for the DeafBlind community. 11/10 at 10 AM EST, 11/12 at 4:30 PM EST, 11/17 at 1:00 PM EST, or 11/19 at 1:00 PM EST. RSVP by November 6th 2020 to deafblind@sprint.com. CART and ASL interpretation will be provided.Sponsor Since: October 22nd 2020
Website: https://www.sprintip.com/ 🌐
Email: scott.davert@t-mobile.com 📧️
Download The App (iOS):
Sprint IP Relay for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Sprint IP Relay for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Accessibility Customer Care: (800) 676-3777 📱️
About: Sprint IP Relay allows people who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind or with a Speech Disability to make or receive phone calls using an internet connection, a computer, tablet or smartphone. Simply type what you want to say to the operator, the operator relays the message to the person you called and then types the caller's response back to you. This process is all done through text, so a user with a braille display, for example, would not need to see the screen or use their voice to communicate with the hearing caller. The Sprint IP Relay service is available at no charge for those who are eligible. Registration is required to verify an individual's identity and residency. If you are a person who is deaf, hard of hearing, DeafBlind or have a speech disability, you will qualify to register for the Sprint IP Relay Service. The user can call anyone at any time within the United States and its territories. Email scott.davert@t-mobile.com with any questions.
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|
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, January 21, 2021 - Volume 791 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, January 21, 2021 - Volume 791
The Week's News in Access Technologyhttps://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Support The World's #1 Access Technology Publication While Enjoying Some Really Incredible Benefits! Only 1 Spot Left!
Top Tech Tidbits is a sponsor and reader supported publication. Your sponsorships along with reader support are critical for us to be able to continue to provide free and unbiased access technology news to thousands of blind and visually impaired professionals, educators and enthusiasts all over the world, each week. If you are already a sponsor, or have already made a contribution, thank you! If you are unable to sponsor or donate for any reason, please ignore this message. We are happy to have you here.
Top Tech Tidbits is the world's leading not-for-profit access technology publication that reaches over 16,000 access technology professionals, educators and enthusiasts, all over the world, each week. Top Tech Tidbits offers a total of 12 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication. There are currently only 2 of these 12 packages still available. Secure one of these remaining packages today for just $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 the world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology, and enjoy these incredible benefits. Learn more today at https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html or contact Aaron Di Blasi of Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. at sponsorships@toptechtidbits.com.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 3 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) How to Answer iPhone Hands-Free: (16.6% of all clicks.)https://www.podfeet.com/blog/2021/01/dqc-iphone-hands-free/
B.) Accessibility Devices Playing Larger Role at CES: (6.9% of all clicks.)
https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/conventions/ces/accessibility-devices-playing-larger-role-at-ces-2250127/
C.) A Week in the Life of Jill's Apple Watch: (5.1% of all clicks.)
https://www.podfeet.com/blog/2021/01/apple-watch-week-jill/
2) Dolphin Computer Access Joins Top Tech Tidbits as 11th Sponsor
We would like to open this week by welcoming aboard our 11th Sponsor in the form of Dolphin Computer Access. From all of us here at Top Tech Tidbits, readers included, we sincerely thank you for your ongoing support. For anyone not familiar with them Dolphin provides accessibility solutions for sight loss and dyslexia to millions of blind, partially sighted and dyslexic people across the globe who have chosen Dolphin products for their personal and professional use. Learn more today at:https://www.yourdolphin.com/
3) How to scan QR codes on iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch
Thanks to Apple Insider we learn how to accomplish this increasingly necessary task:https://appleinsider.com/articles/21/01/07/how-to-scan-qr-codes-on-iphone
4) Training Course by Access Technology Institute | Microsoft Edge with JAWS for Windows
Access Technology Institute offers this six-lesson course for $259 USD:https://www.blind.training/downloads/microsoft-edge-with-jaws-for-windows-training-course/
5) Podcast | Apple's Audio Magic
This Tech Doctor podcast covers the new $550 AirPods Max headphones:https://www.dr-carter.com/
6) Using AI to Improve Photo Descriptions for People Who Are Blind and Visually Impaired
This describes improvements in Facebook's Automatic Alternative Text feature, used when people do not provide alt text for their photos:https://about.fb.com/news/2021/01/using-ai-to-improve-photo-descriptions-for-blind-and-visually-impaired-people/
7) An up-to-date and in-depth Discord guide for Screenreaders: Windows and iOS
This guide is an individual initiative and is kept up to date:https://www.starshipchangeling.net/discord/
8) Blind Compass
This ingenious free iOS app emits tones for the cardinal directions. It also has a mode for locking the direction when one needs to traverse a straight route:https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/blind-compass/id1546647415
9) Virtual Product Expo on Intuitive AI Solutions for PDF & STEM Image Accessibility
January 29th 2021 | 6:30 AM PT, 7:30 AM MT, 8:30 AM CT, 9:30 AM ET, 2:30 PM GMT:https://hubs.li/H0DPwhz0
10) AccessWorld January 2021
The first issue of the year contains "Braille in the 21st Century: How Far Have We Come?," "The 40-Cell Question: A Comparison of 40-Cell Braille Displays," "Braille by Sight: A Guide to Online Braille Workshops from Hadley," "Chromecast with Google TV: An Accessibility Review," and "What's New in MacOS Big Sur:"https://www.afb.org/aw/22/1
11) How to Search in Windows 10
The Windows 10 search feature seems pretty simple, but it can be even more effective. PC Mag shows us some ways to control our searches and find things even faster:https://au.pcmag.com/how-to/52653/how-to-search-in-windows-10
12) What is Windows 10X, and How Is It Unique from Windows 10?
One day every device will likely run on this new Windows operating system. It's built with the help of a new modern version of Windows called 'Windows Core OS' that has original components and features in favor of contemporary user experiences and enhanced security. For those unfamiliar, Windows 10X was originally designed for dual-screen devices, such as the Surface Neo, Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold, and Intel prototypes. Reports have suggested that Windows 10X will now launch in the Spring of 2021 and we've finally managed to get our first look, thanks to a leaked build:https://www.technotification.com/2021/01/what-is-windows-10x-and-how-is-it-unique-from-windows-10.html
13) Microsoft Edge Now Supports Voice Typing with Native Dictation
Microsoft Edge now allows typing using your voice with help of the native Dictation feature of Windows 10:https://winaero.com/microsoft-edge-now-supports-voice-typing-with-native-dictation/
14) Google's TalkBack Screen Reader is Getting New Features Available First on Galaxy Phones
Google says, "As part of our commitment to make computing as accessible to everyone, we've collaborated with Samsung to develop a new version of TalkBack, a Google screen reader, available first on Galaxy:https://www.xda-developers.com/google-talkback-screen-reader-galaxy-s21/
15) Alexa Care Hub: A New Feature To Remotely Check In On Your Loved Ones
Amazon recently rolled out a new feature on their Alexa devices called "Care Hub". The Care Hub is a free feature found in the Alexa app that gives families a way to remotely check in on aging parents or loved ones. This feature establishes a connection between two Alexa accounts, allowing one person to support a loved one through the Care Hub:https://ndassistive.org/blog/alexa-care-hub-a-new-feature-to-remotely-check-in-on-your-loved-ones/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=alexa-care-hub-a-new-feature-to-remotely-check-in-on-your-loved-ones
16) YouTube Adds Voice Commands to Search, Navigate, and Play
The last big update to YouTube on the web saw autoplay controls move inside the video player. YouTube.com is now gaining voice search for fast lookup and hands-free navigation commands:https://9to5google.com/2021/01/13/youtube-voice-commands/
17) Accessibility Devices at CES 2021 Reflect Growing Focus on Inclusive Tech
The products at CES that generate the most buzz are typically TVs, computers and phones, but there's also plenty of important and groundbreaking tech geared toward improving the everyday lives of users that doesn't receive as much attention. These include a range of products primarily focused on accessibility, from hearing aids to braille keyboards to apps that guide visually impaired users:https://www.cnet.com/health/accessibility-devices-at-ces-2021-reflect-growing-focus-on-inclusive-tech/#ftag=CAD590a51e
18) The Intersectionality of Identities with Disability
This resource comes to us from the National Center for College Students with Disabilities (NCCSD), a federally-funded project under the U.S. Department of Education, and provides a range of disability resources for people of different races, ethnicities, cultures, LGBTQI identities, and religions (listed in no particular order). Also includes a collection of self-care and identity resources:https://www.nccsdclearinghouse.org/intersectionality-of-identities.html
19) The Music of the Stars: Sounds from Space Teaching Astronomy to the Blind
The "Music of the Stars" program is a unique space exhibition that opens its doors to kids and adults in 2021, both in-person and virtually, and unlike other programs of its kind, it teaches the blind the magic of astronomy through real sounds from space:https://greekcitytimes.com/2021/01/09/music-of-the-stars-sounds-from-space/
20) Podcast | Blind Tech Guys | CES 2021, BBC Apps And How To Utilise Gestures
January 19th 2021 | On episode 69 of the Blind Tech Guys, they went through all that happened at CES 2021, Marco demonstrated two BBC apps and Nimer showed us how to go about setting up and utilising gestures on Android and iOS:https://www.blindtechguys.com/69
21) Podcast | Eyes on Success #2104 | Eric Damery and His Career
January 20th 2021 | Eric Damery has had a long career in the field of assistive technology and is currently VP of Software Product Management at Freedom Scientific, a Vispero company. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Eric about how he got started in the field and how he worked to bring these technologies to people with vision loss around the world:http://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202104.htm
22) Podcast by Tek Talk | Evo 10 Player
January 26th 2021 | 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 1AM GMT | Learn about a powerful recorder, player and DAISY reader:https://zoom.us/j/839935813
23) Webinar | JAWS OCR, What It Is and How It Works!
This is an archived Freedom Scientific webinar:https://www.freedomscientific.com/webinars/jaws-ocr-what-it-is-and-how-it-works/?utm_content=150593344&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&hss_channel=tw-2382446636
24) Webinar | Kindling Your Imagination:
January 21st 2021 | 3PM PT, 4PM MT, 5PM CT, 6PM ET, 11PM GMT | This Zoom call will focus on the Kindle Fire and perhaps the iOS app:.https://acb-org.zoom.us/j/82284124789?pwd=aUJLcFNqaVBRcnY2anZQZTNkZEtWdz09
25) Webinar by Freedom Scientific | Microsoft Teams and JAWS, Beyond the Basics
January 21st 2021 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Do you use Microsoft Teams with JAWS? Want more information about valuable features? Join us as we provide an overview of the Teams interface and discuss improved navigation options with JAWS 2021 and Fusion 2021:https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_PSgOhhs5RDaoH_7Y8NcWXg
26) Webinar | Apple Presentation Dispelling the Myths
January 22nd 2021 | 2PM PT, 3PM MT, 4PM CT, 5PM ET, 10PM GMT | Does Screen Curtain save battery power? Is it ok to leave my phone plugged in overnight? How important is the lighting when I use Face ID? And do I really need to force quit my apps all the time? These and more questions will be discussed:.https://acb-org.zoom.us/j/84439933345
27) Webinar by the Autistic Women & Nonbinary Network | Abolition, Deinstitutionalization, and Decarceration in the Pandemic
January 25th 2021 | 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 1AM GMT | The pandemic has hit hardest and deadliest in institutions including jails and prisons, psych hospitals, nursing homes, group homes, and large-scale developmental disabilities institutions. This webinar will discuss connections between disability justice and abolition, explain deinstitutionalization and decarceration, and explore strategies that advocates and organizers are using to challenge ableism, racism, and other forms of violence arising during the pandemic. ASL interpretation (with a CDI), CART captioning, and video and audio-only connection options will be provided. Regiser here:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/abolition-deinstitutionalization-and-decarceration-in-the-pandemic-tickets-136762491293
28) Webinar from Knowbility | Screen Readers in the Wild. A Celebration of the 35th Anniversary of the First Screen Reader, Released in 1986
January 25th 2021 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | $35 | IBM Researcher and Accessibility Pioneer, Jim Thatcher, created the first screen reader in 1986. The IBM Screen Reader worked with the text-based Desktop Operating System (DOS). It was initially only available within IBM. Jim and his team continued development and released IBM Screen Reader/2 to work with graphical operating systems such as Windows 95 and IBM OS/2. Register here:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/screen-readers-in-the-wild-tickets-135342363653
29) Webinar | Informational Session and Recruitment for the Intracortical Visual Prosthesis Project - A Clinical Trial
January 26th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | Learn from the researchers about an experimental device intended to restore visual perception for individuals who are blind. Learn about the intracortical visual prosthesis device, the study, expectations, possible risks and benefits, process and post implant requirements hosted by The Chicago Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired. Interested individuals will receive contact information to speak with study personnel after the educational session is over:https://chicagolighthouse.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/ICVP-Informational-Session-Flyer-3.pdf
30) Webinar from the Technology User Group (TUG) of the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled | New & Exciting Apps
February 6th 2021 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | Technology User Group will demonstrate new and useful apps for your smart device. Learn which apps are going to make a difference in your everyday life and which ones to avoid. They will also demonstrate how to make it easier to fill in repetitious information with just a couple keystrokes using your virtual keyboard. The presentation will be virtual and may be joined by calling (319) 527-4994 📱️. Duration is approximately 90 minutes. You do not have to RSVP for this event:https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
31) Training Course from Hartgen Consultancy | Winning Teams! Using Microsoft Teams with JAWS for Windows
March 17th 2021 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | Cost: £150.00 / $205.00 USD | Four training sessions starting on Wednesday, March 17th 2021 and then weekly each Wednesday thereafter. If you cannot make a live session, you will have access to the recording of it shortly after. Requirements, registration and what you will receive available here:http://www.hartgen.org/teams
32) Top Tech Tidbits Buy, Sell or Trade
We have one product for sale this week. Review it below or on the Tidbits website at:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html#listings
Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Get Coding with Code JumperTM - a fully accessible and inclusive computer coding innovation, originally designed by Microsoft® and developed by APH (for Windows, Chromebook, and Android devices)! With Code Jumper, students across the vision spectrum can learn the basics of computer programming and computational thinking by tactually creating computer code that can tell stories and make music. Learn more at:https://www.aph.org/product/code-jumper/.
Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
GuideLights And Gadgets: New Year, Products, Pricing. Mystery Gadget or Doggy Bags; Through Jan. 31, we will double the value of your choice of $25 or $50 gadgets-leather or "all-things-dog" grab bags. Our new shoulder lambskin patchwork tablet and Braille display case will hold just about anything you need for a day $50; form fitting BN Touch Plus leather case $60; new $10 Stream pouch or new Orbit Writer and Phone "On the Go" pouch; write as you walk $35.00; ask about other bag deals. New! Evo 10 Daisy Player with Internet and FM Radio, Podcatcher, lots more; Ivona Joey and Sally; Mystic Access tutorial, leather case, $225. Call Barry: (617) 969-7500 📱️; bscheur@scheur.com.Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
If you're like me, you probably have more things to plug into your computer than available ports. That's why we've now added the Plugable USBC 7-in-1 Hub. Plug it into your laptop and you will get 3 USB ports, SD and Micro SD card slots, a USBC charging port, and an HDMI video port. It's available now for just $29.95:https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: John Panarese
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
A great way to kick off 2021! World renowned Apple trainer John Panarese offers you a way to get involved in the Apple world! Take advantage of his tutorials and courses! John will use your funds to help persons with disabilities to learn more! To purchase your special gift certificate visit:https://www.macfortheblind.com/
Director, https://www.MacForTheBlind.com
Authorized Apple Business Affiliate
Apple Certified Support Professional
Apple Certified Trainer
Assistive Technology Consultant
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://www.macfortheblind.com/ 🌐
Donate Course Time: https://donorbox.org/macfortheblind ❤
Email: john@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: Donna Jodhan
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
High profile educator, podcast commentator, and audio mysteries writer and producer! Donna Jodhan uses her expertise worldwide to ensure that persons with disabilities are not left out or left behind! Visit Donna at https://donorbox.org/author-donna-jodhan. Your donations will help to improve the lives of families with parents and kids with disabilities!Author, Donna Jodhan Publications
President, Sterling Creations
President, Barrier Free Canada / Canada sans Barrieres
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://donnajodhan.com/ 🌐
Donate: https://donorbox.org/author-donna-jodhan ❤
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: Dean Martineau
➜ 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.Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: Be My Eyes
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Accessible Pharmacy, the new, home delivery pharmacy with a blind founder, is bringing its full range of support and services to Be My Eyes. Users of the Be My Eyes app can now call Accessible Pharmacy directly to get support with medication, medical devices, and even home delivery COVID testing. With a fully trained and discreet pharmacy staff on call from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Pacific, Accessible Pharmacy is the new way for blind and low vision consumers to get an easy, frictionless pharmacy experience. Call today — and you'll never have to take an Uber to the drugstore again. https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: Vorail
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
The true beauty of a person lies within and if you hear our voices, you'll quickly understand.24 hour peer to peer tech support in voice, and much more. Receive answers from folks who have gone through what you are going through. Help, and learn from others, like family. Ask-alls range from "How to do X from an accessibility standpoint?" to dealing with vision loss and potential eye surgeries. Light hearted ask-alls include "What do you keep in your bed other than yourself?" and "What word would you use to describe 2020?" "What word to describe your hopes for 2021?". Vorail is a 501(c)(3) non-profit.
https://vorail.com/toptechtidbits
Sponsor Since: January 21st 2021
Website: https://www.vorail.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Vorail for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Vorail for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Mission: Vorail is the only platform in the world for the low vision and blind community where everybody can join conversations by voice on equal footing. Every day members of the Vorail community create ask-alls (questions) about life (news, health, technology, religion, sports and more) that allow us to see the world differently, and connect in a way that is deeper than 'liking' a photo. Vorail is an audio-only experience, voice is the window into a human soul. It does not matter if you are tall, short, wide, thin, white, or black when nobody sees your picture. Without the visuals, what counts is who you are, the person inside. That is the mission of Vorail, to create an extended family where we are judged for who we are, not what we look like.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
Sponsor Since: January 28th 2021
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Phone (USA & Canada): +1 (866) 797-5921 📱️
Phone (UK, Europe & Asia): +44 01905 754577 📱️
Phone (Nordic & Baltic Contries): +46 0515 82175 📱️
Download The App (iOS):
Dolphin EasyReader for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Dolphin EasyReader for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Accessibility for sight loss and dyslexia. Join the millions of blind, partially sighted and dyslexic people across the globe who have chosen Dolphin products for their personal and professional use. Our software and free apps support users with all degrees of sight loss, computer experience and reading ability.
Sponsor: Sprint IP Relay
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
One challenge someone with a combined vision and hearing loss must address is accessing the phone system without adequate vision or hearing. Individuals with no hearing but vision can access the phone system using a videophone. Those with no vision, but who have hearing can use the phone as it was intended. How would someone with vision and hearing loss continue to call doctors, contact emergency services such as 911, arrange for medical appointments, contact businesses, or friends and family who do not text? One solution, for those living in the U.S. with a form of hearing loss, is Sprint IP Relay. Come learn more at our webinars, specialized for the DeafBlind community. 11/10 at 10 AM EST, 11/12 at 4:30 PM EST, 11/17 at 1:00 PM EST, or 11/19 at 1:00 PM EST. RSVP by November 6th 2020 to deafblind@sprint.com. CART and ASL interpretation will be provided.Sponsor Since: October 22nd 2020
Website: https://www.sprintip.com/ 🌐
Email: scott.davert@t-mobile.com 📧️
Download The App (iOS):
Sprint IP Relay for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Sprint IP Relay for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Accessibility Customer Care: (800) 676-3777 📱️
About: Sprint IP Relay allows people who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind or with a Speech Disability to make or receive phone calls using an internet connection, a computer, tablet or smartphone. Simply type what you want to say to the operator, the operator relays the message to the person you called and then types the caller's response back to you. This process is all done through text, so a user with a braille display, for example, would not need to see the screen or use their voice to communicate with the hearing caller. The Sprint IP Relay service is available at no charge for those who are eligible. Registration is required to verify an individual's identity and residency. If you are a person who is deaf, hard of hearing, DeafBlind or have a speech disability, you will qualify to register for the Sprint IP Relay Service. The user can call anyone at any time within the United States and its territories. Email scott.davert@t-mobile.com with any questions.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Featured Products: Revolution Cane Tip: Standard Roller Tip: $14.50 | Locator Dots: Small Pack of 6 (Clear or Orange): $2.00 | NFB Metal Cane Tip: $3.00 | TMAP - On Demand Tactile Street | Map (set of two maps): $25.00 | Ambutech Aluminum Folding Cane: $35.00 | NFB Chris Park Telescoping Cane: $45.00 | BoldWriter 20 Pen (Individual or 6-pack): $2.00 | Bump Dots: Mixed (50 count): $7.00 | Braille Apple Catalina VoiceOver Guide OSX 10.15 (3 volumes) - Latest Manual: $52.00 | SpeedDots iPhone Tactile Screen Protector, Phone Layout: $12.00 | NFB Chris Park 7-Piece Folding Cane: $50.00 | Visit https://adaptations.org/ to learn more today!Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, January 14, 2021 - Volume 790 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, January 14, 2020 - Volume 790
The Week's News in Access Technologyhttps://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Support The World's #1 Access Technology Publication While Enjoying Some Really Incredible Benefits! Only 2 Spots Left!
Top Tech Tidbits is a sponsor and reader supported publication. Your sponsorships along with reader support are critical for us to be able to continue to provide free and unbiased access technology news to thousands of blind and visually impaired professionals, educators and enthusiasts all over the world, each week. If you are already a sponsor, or have already made a contribution, thank you! If you are unable to sponsor or donate for any reason, please ignore this message. We are happy to have you here.
Top Tech Tidbits is the world's leading not-for-profit access technology publication that reaches over 16,000 access technology professionals, educators and enthusiasts, all over the world, each week. Top Tech Tidbits offers a total of 12 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication. There are currently only 2 of these 12 packages still available. Secure one of these remaining packages today for just $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 the world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology, and enjoy these incredible benefits. Learn more today at https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html or contact Aaron Di Blasi of Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. at sponsorships@toptechtidbits.com.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 3 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) 21 Ways You Didn't Know You Could Use Shortcuts on Your iPhone: (13.9% of all clicks.)https://mashable.com/article/iphone-shortcuts-app-uses/
B.) The Biggest Technology Failures of 2020: (11.2% of all clicks.)
https://www.technologyreview.com/2020/12/31/1015552/biggest-technology-failures-2020/
C.) A Complete List of VoiceOver Keyboard Shortcuts Available on MacOS: (7.7% of all clicks.)
https://www.applevis.com/guides/complete-list-voiceover-keyboard-shortcuts-available-macos
2) Vorail Joins Top Tech Tidbits as 10th Sponsor
We would like to open this week by welcoming aboard our 10th Sponsor in the form of the Vorail Community. From all of us here at Top Tech Tidbits, readers included, we sincerely thank you for your ongoing support. For those of you not familiar with them, Vorail is the only platform in the world for the low vision and blind community where everybody can join conversations by voice on equal footing. Learn more today at:https://www.vorail.com/
3) How to Answer iPhone Hands-Free
This blog post may teach you some intricacies of Apple device use:https://www.podfeet.com/blog/2021/01/dqc-iphone-hands-free/
4) A Week in the Life of Jill's Apple Watch
The answering iPhone item led me to this post for some creative Apple Watch use:https://www.podfeet.com/blog/2021/01/apple-watch-week-jill/
5) Zoom Webinar | Exploring the Apple Watch with Accessibility in Mind
January 14th 2021 | 3PM PT, 4PM MT, 5PM CT, 6PM ET, 11PM GMT | Register here:https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwvduqtrjouE9VtNZACkfOSsM7z8GEZLqrC
6) Zoom Webinar | Apple Presentation | Creating Blogs and Websites
January 15th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 8PM GMT | This is an ACB Zoom webinar. Join the meeting at:https://acb-org.zoom.us/j/84439933345
7) Zoom Webinar | An Introduction to Windows Keyboard Commands
January 16th 2021 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 8PM GMT | This is an ACB Zoom webinar. Join the meeting at:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82133188270?pwd=M1RoRkFFUElYbWZvRWo5UHArUnovdz09
8) How to Change the Windows 10 Startup Sound
Courtesy of Help Desk Geek:https://helpdeskgeek.com/windows-10/how-to-change-the-windows-10-startup-sound/
9) Getting Started with Windows 10: Using Windows 10 with Screen Readers
This National Braille Press book, at $22.00 - $24.50 depending on the chosen format, is something that a lot of people have been asking for:https://www.nbp.org/ic/nbp/WINDOWS.html
10) Scribe for Meetings
Pneuma Solutions (formerly Serotech) introduces a way for you to read PowerPoint slides and other shared documents via Zoom "in real time" and promises to expand to other platforms in the near future. It's free while it's in beta. With this new tool a meeting host can upload the slides for a meeting ahead of time and then share a link to accessible versions of the slides that are automatically synchronized with the presentation during the meeting:https://scribeformeetings.com/
11) Podcast | Episode #31 | Chaos in the Capitol Building from Talk Description to Me
This creative podcast for the blind continues to fill a useful purpose providing descriptions of images from the January 6th 2021 events:https://talkdescriptiontome.buzzsprout.com/1136756/7186318
12) Podcast | Eyes on Success #2103 | Supersense | January 13th 2021
Making use of advanced artificial intelligence algorithms, Supersense is a powerful and versatile scanning app that can be used to explore your environment, find specific objects, scan text, and much more. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Shane Lowe of the Supersense team about the capabilities of this app and what makes it unique:http://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202103.htm
13) An Even More Comprehensive List of Google Docs Keyboard Shortcuts Directly From Google
In a follow up to a post from last week around this same topic a reader by the name of Sergei brings us an even more comprehensive resource. Includes a complete list of all PC, Mac and Chrome OS keyboard shortcuts for Google Docs:https://support.google.com/docs/answer/179738?co=GENIE.Platform%3DDesktop&hl=en#zippy=%2Cpc-shortcuts
14) Teaching Braille Remotely During the Pandemic
This comes courtesy of the APH Family Cnnnect blog:
https://familyconnect.org/blog/uncategorized/louis-brailles-legacy-literacy-for-people-who-are-visually-impaired/
15) GoodMaps Explore Aims to Bring Step-by-Step Navigation to Indoor Spaces
Engadget provides information about this app for the blind:
https://www.engadget.com/goodmaps-explore-app-blind-visual-navigation-185053165.html
16) Accessibility Devices Playing Larger Role at CES
While much of the tech unveiled at this year's CES aims at easing daily life, some of the latest gadgets go one step further to improve the accessibility options for those with disabilities or impairments:https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/conventions/ces/accessibility-devices-playing-larger-role-at-ces-2250127/
17) The Best of CES 2021
Wired Magazine gives us the products, prototypes, and ideas that did the best job of signaling the future at this year's consumer tech showcase:https://www.wired.com/story/best-of-ces-2021/
18) Sony's New Lip-Reading Technology Could Boost Accessibility — or Invade Privacy
Sony's Visual Speech Enablement uses cameras and AI to read lips from far distances, no matter the noise. But are its accessibility benefits overshadowed by the potential for privacy violations?https://www.pcmag.com/news/sonys-new-lip-reading-technology-could-boost-accessibility-or-invade-privacy
19) Firefox 86 Will Block the 'Backspace-Key To Go Back' Action by Default
The Firefox web browser is one of the few web browsers left that supports using the Backspace-key to go back. Starting in Firefox 86, Firefox users won't be able to use the Backspace-key anymore to navigate back in history by default. The key won't have the action mapped to it anymore. The organization suggests that Firefox users start using Alt-Left-Arrow instead to navigate back. Here's how to restore this functionality if you need to:https://www.ghacks.net/2021/01/08/firefox-86-will-block-the-backspace-key-to-go-back-by-default/
20) IRS Services for the Visually Impaired
Visually impaired taxpayers who need assistance with a notice or letter in print format or need other information about the services available through the Alternative Media Center may contact the IRS at (800) 829-1040. In addition, the IRS has also made recent updates to its Accessible Forms & Publications page:https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/accessible-irs-tax-products
21) Bookshare Special Promotion for Veterans
Bookshare is an online library that offers over 925,000 ebooks including textbooks, bestsellers, award-winning favorites, career resources, periodicals, and more in audio, large text, and Braille. Veterans with vision loss, dyslexia, or physical disabilities that impact their ability to read a print book can use Bookshare to read in ways that work for them. For qualifying veterans who are students, membership is free. Veterans who are non-students are eligible for a three-month complimentary membership using promo code VET2020:https://www.nfb.org/images/nfb/publications/bm/bm21/bm2101/bm210119.htm
22) Microsoft Backs Development of Smart Cane for Visually Impaired
Jean Marc Feghali has Leber's Congenital Amaurosis, a disease that reduces his peripheral vision and renders him effectively blind at night. But the intelligent walking cane he's helping to develop has been life-changing, he says. It's also won support from Microsoft Corporation. Feghali said the company's goal is to create a product that blends key elements of devices like the FitBit or Apple Watch with hardware that's specifically built for people with limited or no vision. But at close to $600, the product is about ten times more expensive than a conventional white cane. It also requires a smartphone to make the most of its features and the company's free mobile app, which could put it out of reach for many people:About: https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/technology/microsoft-backs-development-of-smart-cane-for-visually-impaired/ar-BB1cvQAn
Buy The Cane: https://wewalk.io/en/
23) Segway Is Bringing the Hoverchairs From The Movie WALL-E to Life
Next week, Segway will debut new personal transporter pods at CES, the huge annual consumer electronics show in Las Vegas. It's called the S-Pod, and it doesn't float. Instead, it uses Segway's self-balancing technology to propel the user forward on two wheels, while sitting down:https://www.wired.com/story/segway-bringing-hoverchairs-wall-e-life/
24) Top Tech Tidbits Buy, Sell or Trade
We have one product for sale this week. Review it below or on the Tidbits website at:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html#listings
Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
GuideLights And Gadgets: New Year, Products, Pricing. Mystery Gadget or Doggy Bags; Through Jan. 31, we will double the value of your choice of $25 or $50 gadgets-leather or "all-things-dog" grab bags. Our new shoulder lambskin patchwork tablet and Braille display case will hold just about anything you need for a day $50; form fitting BN Touch Plus leather case $60; new $10 Stream pouch or new Orbit Writer and Phone "On the Go" pouch; write as you walk $35.00; ask about other bag deals. New! Evo 10 Daisy Player with Internet and FM Radio, Podcatcher, lots more; Ivona Joey and Sally; Mystic Access tutorial, leather case, $225. Call Barry: (617) 969-7500 📱️; bscheur@scheur.com.Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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: A. T. Guys
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
If you're like me, you probably have more things to plug into your computer than available ports. That's why we've now added the Plugable USBC 7-in-1 Hub. Plug it into your laptop and you will get 3 USB ports, SD and Micro SD card slots, a USBC charging port, and an HDMI video port. It's available now for just $29.95:https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: John Panarese
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
A great way to kick off 2021! World renowned Apple trainer John Panarese offers you a way to get involved in the Apple world! Take advantage of his tutorials and courses! John will use your funds to help persons with disabilities to learn more! To purchase your special gift certificate visit https://donorbox.org/macfortheblind today!Director, https://www.MacForTheBlind.com
Authorized Apple Business Affiliate
Apple Certified Support Professional
Apple Certified Trainer
Assistive Technology Consultant
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://www.macfortheblind.com/ 🌐
Donate Course Time: https://donorbox.org/macfortheblind ❤
Email: john@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: Donna Jodhan
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
High profile educator, podcast commentator, and audio mysteries writer and producer! Donna Jodhan uses her expertise worldwide to ensure that persons with disabilities are not left out or left behind! Visit Donna at https://donorbox.org/author-donna-jodhan. Your donations will help to improve the lives of families with parents and kids with disabilities!Author, Donna Jodhan Publications
President, Sterling Creations
President, Barrier Free Canada / Canada sans Barrieres
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://donnajodhan.com/ 🌐
Donate: https://donorbox.org/author-donna-jodhan ❤
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: Dean Martineau
➜ 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.Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: Be My Eyes
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Accessible Pharmacy, the new, home delivery pharmacy with a blind founder, is bringing its full range of support and services to Be My Eyes. Users of the Be My Eyes app can now call Accessible Pharmacy directly to get support with medication, medical devices, and even home delivery COVID testing. With a fully trained and discreet pharmacy staff on call from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Pacific, Accessible Pharmacy is the new way for blind and low vision consumers to get an easy, frictionless pharmacy experience. Call today — and you'll never have to take an Uber to the drugstore again. https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: Vorail
Sponsor Since: January 21st 2021
Website: https://www.vorail.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Vorail for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Vorail for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Mission: Vorail is the only platform in the world for the low vision and blind community where everybody can join conversations by voice on equal footing. Every day members of the Vorail community create ask-alls (questions) about life (news, health, technology, religion, sports and more) that allow us to see the world differently, and connect in a way that is deeper than 'liking' a photo. Vorail is an audio-only experience, voice is the window into a human soul. It does not matter if you are tall, short, wide, thin, white, or black when nobody sees your picture. Without the visuals, what counts is who you are, the person inside. That is the mission of Vorail, to create an extended family where we are judged for who we are, not what we look like.
Sponsor: Sprint IP Relay
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
One challenge someone with a combined vision and hearing loss must address is accessing the phone system without adequate vision or hearing. Individuals with no hearing but vision can access the phone system using a videophone. Those with no vision, but who have hearing can use the phone as it was intended. How would someone with vision and hearing loss continue to call doctors, contact emergency services such as 911, arrange for medical appointments, contact businesses, or friends and family who do not text? One solution, for those living in the U.S. with a form of hearing loss, is Sprint IP Relay. Come learn more at our webinars, specialized for the DeafBlind community. 11/10 at 10 AM EST, 11/12 at 4:30 PM EST, 11/17 at 1:00 PM EST, or 11/19 at 1:00 PM EST. RSVP by November 6th 2020 to deafblind@sprint.com. CART and ASL interpretation will be provided.Sponsor Since: October 22nd 2020
Website: https://www.sprintip.com/ 🌐
Email: scott.davert@t-mobile.com 📧️
Download The App (iOS):
Sprint IP Relay for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Sprint IP Relay for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Accessibility Customer Care: (800) 676-3777 📱️
About: Sprint IP Relay allows people who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind or with a Speech Disability to make or receive phone calls using an internet connection, a computer, tablet or smartphone. Simply type what you want to say to the operator, the operator relays the message to the person you called and then types the caller's response back to you. This process is all done through text, so a user with a braille display, for example, would not need to see the screen or use their voice to communicate with the hearing caller. The Sprint IP Relay service is available at no charge for those who are eligible. Registration is required to verify an individual's identity and residency. If you are a person who is deaf, hard of hearing, DeafBlind or have a speech disability, you will qualify to register for the Sprint IP Relay Service. The user can call anyone at any time within the United States and its territories. Email scott.davert@t-mobile.com with any questions.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Featured Products: Revolution Cane Tip: Standard Roller Tip: $14.50 | Locator Dots: Small Pack of 6 (Clear or Orange): $2.00 | NFB Metal Cane Tip: $3.00 | TMAP - On Demand Tactile Street | Map (set of two maps): $25.00 | Ambutech Aluminum Folding Cane: $35.00 | NFB Chris Park Telescoping Cane: $45.00 | BoldWriter 20 Pen (Individual or 6-pack): $2.00 | Bump Dots: Mixed (50 count): $7.00 | Braille Apple Catalina VoiceOver Guide OSX 10.15 (3 volumes) - Latest Manual: $52.00 | SpeedDots iPhone Tactile Screen Protector, Phone Layout: $12.00 | NFB Chris Park 7-Piece Folding Cane: $50.00 | Visit https://adaptations.org/ to learn more today!Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
APH's Braille Trail Reader LE refreshable braille display will start your students' braille journey with a positive technology experience that allows them to discover the joys of reading and writing. This 14-cell braille display features a Windows app for easy file transfer between teachers and students. Also perfect for the working adult: users can take notes, and create, edit and read text and braille files. Learn more at https://www.aph.org/product/braille-trail-reader-le/.Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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.
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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, January 7, 2021 - Volume 789 |
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, January 7, 2021 - Volume 789
The Week's News in Access Technologyhttps://toptechtidbits.com/
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/
About | Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
Web Version | Read this volume of Top Tech Tidbits online at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/tidbits2021/01072021/.
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This Week's Featured Advertisement: Don't Wait for Help: Be My Eyes Shares Reduced Wait Times, Home Covid Tests and Other New Specialized Services
Be My Eyes' mission is to deliver free video support to our users as fast as possible. So how are we doing with that goal? Well, last year we shared some data: 90% of Be My Eyes calls were answered in under 30 seconds. That's all calls, in every language, 24 hours a day. We accomplished this without ever charging users a cent. Today our wait times are even shorter (particularly in English, where wait times are often less than 10 seconds).
We've grown to more than just quick connections with volunteers, though. In 2020, we added dozens of new companies to the platform. These professionals offer tech support, personal health support, vision rehab services and more, Accessible Pharmacy, our newest provider, can support with medication, medical devices, and Covid-19 testing, all without leaving your home. Their fully trained and discreet pharmacy staff are on call from 10 AM to 3 PM Eastern. For an easy, frictionless drugstore experience, call today — and never Uber to the pharmacy again!
Download Today: https://www.bemyeyes.com/download.
Dear [[FIRSTNAME OR "Tidbits Subscriber"]],
1) Top 3 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) All The Windows 10 Tutorials You'll Ever Need: (8.5% of all clicks.)https://www.techsupportalert.com/content/all-windows-10-tutorials-you-ll-ever-need.htm
B.) Interactive Adventure and Escape Games with Alexa: (5.4% of all clicks.)
https://www.aph.org/fun-with-alexa-interactive-adventure-and-escape-games/
C.) How to Easily Batch Rename Files on Windows 10: (4.8% of all clicks.)
https://www.howtogeek.com/705534/how-to-easily-batch-rename-files-on-windows-10/
2) The Biggest Technology Failures of 2020
We all know it was a bad year, but since we can learn just as much from our mistakes as we can from our achievements we present this list from Wired Magazine outlining all of the most fantastic technology failures of 2020:https://www.technologyreview.com/2020/12/31/1015552/biggest-technology-failures-2020/
3) 4th Annual Accessible High and Low Tech Fitness Workshop | January 9th 2021
2PM ET | 1PM CT | 12PM MT | 11AM PT | 7PM GMT. Learn about and share information about accessible fitness equipment, training, and more. Register for this event at:https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUqfuqupj4pEtwrjCzr8yilHN_Ip__QICFb
4) SuperSense AI on Tech Time | Zoom | January 13th 2021
4PM ET | 3PM CT | 2PM MT | 1PM PT | 9PM GMT. This app combines OCR, money identification, bar code reading and more into one app. Tech Time is on Zoom at:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9357099741?pwd=YVhxTVg0Nm1KQytCQ0xJM1JvZDhYUT09
5) Essential Guide to Assistive Technology for the Home
You can email Dolphin Computer Access to receive their document:https://info.yourdolphin.com/en/essential-guide-to-assistive-technology-0
6) Podcast | Eyes on Success | January 6th 2021
David Bradburn, Vice-President, Global Sales at Humanware, has been involved in the access technology field for over 35 years. A lot has changed over that time. Listen in on a conversation between David as a salesman and host Peter Torpey as a user as they reminisce about the evolution of access technology equipment since the early days:http://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202102.htm
7) Thoughts on Screen Readers and Image Recognition
Leonie Watson explains why we need content-authored text descriptions:https://tink.uk/thoughts-on-screen-readers-and-image-recognition/
8) Remote Science Learning Advancements for the Blind
This comes from the January 2021 issue of The Braille Monitor:https://www.nfb.org/images/nfb/publications/bm/bm21/bm2101/bm210108.htm
9) A Complete List of VoiceOver Keyboard Shortcuts Available on MacOS:
This is a well-presented list:https://www.applevis.com/guides/complete-list-voiceover-keyboard-shortcuts-available-macos
10) Podcast | 3D Printing for the Blind and Visually Impaired. An Insightful Perception Through Touch
A transcript for this Blind Abilities podcast is provided:https://blindabilities.com/?p=6417
11) AppleVis Unlimited: What's New and Noteworthy for December 2020
Here's the December update from AppleVis:https://www.applevis.com/blog/applevis-unlimited-whats-new-and-noteworthy-december-2020?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter
12) 21 Ways You Didn't Know You Could Use Shortcuts on Your iPhone
This comes from Mashable:https://mashable.com/article/iphone-shortcuts-app-uses/
13) How Refreshable Braille Enhances Braille Literacy
This comes from the Freedom Scientific blog:https://blog.freedomscientific.com/how-refreshable-braille-enhances-braille-literacy/
14) Podcast | Looking Ahead to 2021
This is an RNIB Tech Talk podcast:https://audioboom.com/posts/7755681-a-tech-talk-special-looking-ahead-to-2021
15) Getty Images Partners with the National Federation of the Blind and Tactile Images to Deliver 25 Million Images to the World's Blind Population
Getty Images, a world leader in visual communications, and the National Federation of the Blind, America's civil rights and membership organization of the blind, have partnered with Tactile Images to deliver more than 25 million images to the world's blind population at museums, science centers, libraries, schools, and government agencies. This initiative will significantly enhance educational opportunities and cultural inclusion for blind and low-vision individuals worldwide:https://www.nfb.org/about-us/press-room/getty-images-partners-national-federation-blind-and-tactile-images-deliver-25
16) Webinar | Hearing Loss | CaptionMate Automated Speech Recognition (ASR) | January 12th 2020
2PM ET | 1PM CT | 12PM MT | 11AM PT | 7PM GMT. CaptionMate is a new, free telephone captioning application that can be used with all telephone calls, including for registered individuals dialing into web conference calls like Zoom. The FCC certified CaptionMate in June 2020, which means that CaptionMate is financed by a fund administered by the FCC. The product is only available to people with hearing loss. You can self-certify your hearing loss, which means you don't need a new appointment with your audiologist. CaptionMate works on Android, iOS and Web devices. You can use your landline, flip phone or smartphone to make and receive calls, while watching captions on any smart device, including your iPad, computer screen, smartphone, etc. CaptionMate uses Automated Speech Recognition (ASR) which means that there is NO Captioning Assistant or transcriptionist in the middle of your calls:https://hearingloss.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_oop-3zS-T2iLfwgRLw6UHQ
17) Internet Archive Now Has Better Scans of Computerworld Magazine
The Internet Archive has announced that it has made Computerworld's print issues from 1967-2014 available online in better quality than ever. The publication provides a historical record of sorts for computing, as it launched during a key period in the industry and documented significant events like a 75 minute Steve Jobs interview in 1995. The collection includes 50 years of reporting from mainframes to iPhones to AI, via a publication that was the progenitor of future properties like Macworld and PCWorld. The higher-quality issues are now available to all (with limited text search available for now), and can be read aloud:https://www.engadget.com/computer-world-vintage-print-issues-come-to-the-internet-archive-133040851.html
18) Braille Institute Celebrates "Technology Month" In January
For the second-straight year Braille Institute celebrates January as "Technology Month" and offers educational and interactive online technology workshops and tech-focused online content throughout the month:About: https://www.kpvi.com/news/national_news/braille-institute-celebrates-technology-month-in-january/article_154d0d6d-1d84-5436-9a27-5b4a42854af9.html
Schedule of Workshops: https://brailleinstitute.org/technology-workshops
19) Will AI Kill The reCAPTCHA Star?
An old attack method dating back to 2017 that uses voice-to-text to bypass CAPTCHA protections turns out to still work on Google's latest reCAPTCHA v3. The idea of the attack is very simple. You grab the MP3 file of the audio reCAPTCHA and you submit it to Google's own speech-to-text API. Google will return the correct answer in over 97 percent of all cases. Google did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the report. But it would seem that we are approaching a point in time in which the Turing Test can be solved by advanced AI, thus making CAPTCHAs harder and harder to implement:https://threatpost.com/researcher-breaks-recaptcha-speech-to-text-api/162734/
20) Job Opening | Assistive Technology Specialist | Shoreline Community College | Shoreline, WA |
Opening Date: 12/28/2020 | Closing Date: 1/14/2021 | Salary Range: $40,295 to $52,429 Annuallyhttps://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/shorelinecc/jobs/2927523/assistive-technology-specialist
21) JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion January 2021 Updates
JAWS 2021.2012.48https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/JAWS/JAWSWhatsNew#Enhancements
ZoomText 2021.2012.48
https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/ZoomText/ZoomTextWhatsNew#enhancements
Fusion 2021.2012.8
https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/Fusion/FusionWhatsNew#enhancements
22) Audio Documentation on 1Password From Mystic Access | To Be Released March 1st 2021 | $49
If you'd like audio documentation that walks you through how to use this cross-platform method for securely storing, organizing and managing your passwords from a blindness perspective, then the 1Password Audio Documentation from Mystic Access may be able to help:https://www.mysticaccess.com/product/audio-documentation-on-1password/#tab-description
23) Google Docs Keyboard Shortcuts for Windows 10 PC
Google Docs works with native Windows 10 keyboard shortcuts as well, so long as you're using an up-to-date web browser to access Google Docs, you can avail of these keyboard shortcuts:https://www.thewindowsclub.com/google-docs-keyboard-shortcuts
24) Imagine Being Blind and Trying to Attend a Virtual Event. Try That Next Time You Stage One
In this very informative and in-depth article from TechCrunch their developers explain how exactly they very recently tackled this very issue:https://techcrunch.com/2020/12/30/imagine-being-blind-and-trying-to-attend-a-virtual-event-try-that-next-time-you-stage-one/
25) Be My Eyes App Helping to Change the Lives of the Visually Impaired for the Better
With 4.8 out of 5 stars, the app has been a hit for users on both ends. In fact, sighted volunteers seem to be getting so much out of lending a set of eyes that the ratio of volunteers to blind people is abundant:https://www.click2houston.com/features/2020/12/17/this-app-is-helping-to-change-the-lives-of-the-visually-impaired-for-the-better/
26) AI Vision: Wearable AI Helps the Visually Impaired 'See' in Real-Time
OrCam MyEye is a voice-activated device that attaches to virtually any pair of glasses. It conveys visual information audibly in real-time, thereby helping the visually impaired or those with reading difficulties live a more independent life:https://www.financialexpress.com/industry/technology/ai-vision-wearable-ai-helps-the-visually-impaired-see-in-real-time/2155443/
27) Podcast | Blind Tech Guys | January 4th 2021 | How To Sort Out Your Android OS 11 Talkback Issues On A Samsung Phone
On this episode, Kirt takes us through how to go about removing Samsung's version of Talkback on a Samsung phone running OS 11 and installing Google's version of Talkback by using ADB:https://www.blindtechguys.com/67
28) Top Tech Tidbits Buy, Sell or Trade
We have one product for sale this week. Review it below or on the Tidbits website at:https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html#listings
Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor Classified Ads:
Sponsor: A. T. Guys
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
If you're like me, you probably have more things to plug into your computer than available ports. That's why we've now added the Plugable USBC 7-in-1 Hub. Plug it into your laptop and you will get 3 USB ports, SD and Micro SD card slots, a USBC charging port, and an HDMI video port. It's available now for just $29.95:https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331
Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys ✆
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍
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: John Panarese
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
A great way to kick off 2021! World renowned Apple trainer John Panarese offers you a way to get involved in the Apple world! Take advantage of his tutorials and courses! John will use your funds to help persons with disabilities to learn more! To purchase your special gift certificate visit https://donorbox.org/macfortheblind today!Director, https://www.MacForTheBlind.com
Authorized Apple Business Affiliate
Apple Certified Support Professional
Apple Certified Trainer
Assistive Technology Consultant
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://www.macfortheblind.com/ 🌐
Donate Course Time: https://donorbox.org/macfortheblind ❤
Email: john@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: Donna Jodhan
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
High profile educator, podcast commentator, and audio mysteries writer and producer! Donna Jodhan uses her expertise worldwide to ensure that persons with disabilities are not left out or left behind! Visit Donna at https://donorbox.org/author-donna-jodhan. Your donations will help to improve the lives of families with parents and kids with disabilities!Author, Donna Jodhan Publications
President, Sterling Creations
President, Barrier Free Canada / Canada sans Barrieres
Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020
Website: https://donnajodhan.com/ 🌐
Donate: https://donorbox.org/author-donna-jodhan ❤
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: Dean Martineau
➜ 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.Editor, Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter
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: Be My Eyes
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Accessible Pharmacy, the new, home delivery pharmacy with a blind founder, is bringing its full range of support and services to Be My Eyes. Users of the Be My Eyes app can now call Accessible Pharmacy directly to get support with medication, medical devices, and even home delivery COVID testing. With a fully trained and discreet pharmacy staff on call from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Pacific, Accessible Pharmacy is the new way for blind and low vision consumers to get an easy, frictionless pharmacy experience. Call today — and you'll never have to take an Uber to the drugstore again. https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/accessible-pharmacy-joins-be-my-eyes.Lead Contact: Will Butler, VP of Community
Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020
Website: https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 🌐
Download The App (iOS):
Be My Eyes for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Be My Eyes for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
About: Be My Eyes is a free mobile app that allows anyone who needs video support to get assistance from a dynamic range of volunteers and company customer support professionals from around the world. With more than 4 million volunteers and dozens of companies offering on-demand visual interpretation and support, Be My Eyes is a free, unlimited way to bridge gaps and get access to whatever information you need — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in any language. Download the app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Sponsor: Sprint IP Relay
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
One challenge someone with a combined vision and hearing loss must address is accessing the phone system without adequate vision or hearing. Individuals with no hearing but vision can access the phone system using a videophone. Those with no vision, but who have hearing can use the phone as it was intended. How would someone with vision and hearing loss continue to call doctors, contact emergency services such as 911, arrange for medical appointments, contact businesses, or friends and family who do not text? One solution, for those living in the U.S. with a form of hearing loss, is Sprint IP Relay. Come learn more at our webinars, specialized for the DeafBlind community. 11/10 at 10 AM EST, 11/12 at 4:30 PM EST, 11/17 at 1:00 PM EST, or 11/19 at 1:00 PM EST. RSVP by November 6th 2020 to deafblind@sprint.com. CART and ASL interpretation will be provided.Sponsor Since: October 22nd 2020
Website: https://www.sprintip.com/ 🌐
Email: scott.davert@t-mobile.com 📧️
Download The App (iOS):
Sprint IP Relay for iOS - From the Apple App Store 📱
Download The App (Android):
Sprint IP Relay for Android - From the Google Play Store 📱
Accessibility Customer Care: (800) 676-3777 📱️
About: Sprint IP Relay allows people who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind or with a Speech Disability to make or receive phone calls using an internet connection, a computer, tablet or smartphone. Simply type what you want to say to the operator, the operator relays the message to the person you called and then types the caller's response back to you. This process is all done through text, so a user with a braille display, for example, would not need to see the screen or use their voice to communicate with the hearing caller. The Sprint IP Relay service is available at no charge for those who are eligible. Registration is required to verify an individual's identity and residency. If you are a person who is deaf, hard of hearing, DeafBlind or have a speech disability, you will qualify to register for the Sprint IP Relay Service. The user can call anyone at any time within the United States and its territories. Email scott.davert@t-mobile.com with any questions.
Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
Featured Products: Revolution Cane Tip: Standard Roller Tip: $14.50 | Locator Dots: Small Pack of 6 (Clear or Orange): $2.00 | NFB Metal Cane Tip: $3.00 | TMAP - On Demand Tactile Street | Map (set of two maps): $25.00 | Ambutech Aluminum Folding Cane: $35.00 | NFB Chris Park Telescoping Cane: $45.00 | BoldWriter 20 Pen (Individual or 6-pack): $2.00 | Bump Dots: Mixed (50 count): $7.00 | Braille Apple Catalina VoiceOver Guide OSX 10.15 (3 volumes) - Latest Manual: $52.00 | SpeedDots iPhone Tactile Screen Protector, Phone Layout: $12.00 | NFB Chris Park 7-Piece Folding Cane: $50.00 | Visit https://adaptations.org/ to learn more today!Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020
Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐
Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 📱️
Local: (415) 694-7301 📱️
About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.
Sponsor: American Printing House (APH)
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
APH's Braille Trail Reader LE refreshable braille display will start your students' braille journey with a positive technology experience that allows them to discover the joys of reading and writing. This 14-cell braille display features a Windows app for easy file transfer between teachers and students. Also perfect for the working adult: users can take notes, and create, edit and read text and braille files. Learn more at https://www.aph.org/product/braille-trail-reader-le/.Website: https://www.aph.org/ 🌐
Toll Free and Customer Support: (800) 223-1839 📱️
Phone: (512) 895-2405 📱️
Fax: (512) 899-2284 ░
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/WENRlCNDsxQ 🎥
Free Apps & Actions from APH: https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/ 📱
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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ This Week's Classified Ad:
GuideLights And Gadgets: New Year, Products, Pricing. Mystery Gadget or Doggy Bags; Through Jan. 31, we will double the value of your choice of $25 or $50 gadgets-leather or "all-things-dog" grab bags. Our new shoulder lambskin patchwork tablet and Braille display case will hold just about anything you need for a day $50; form fitting BN Touch Plus leather case $60; new $10 Stream pouch or new Orbit Writer and Phone "On the Go" pouch; write as you walk $35.00; ask about other bag deals. New! Evo 10 Daisy Player with Internet and FM Radio, Podcatcher, lots more; Ivona Joey and Sally; Mystic Access tutorial, leather case, $225. Call Barry: (617) 969-7500 📱️; bscheur@scheur.com.Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
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!
Your Name Here
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Listing Date: 1/7/2021 | Price: $980.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used | Contact: braille@stradone.net 📧️ | Description: This is for a Focus 14 Blue 5th Gen Braille display only about 6 months old. All accessories are included Case and USB C cable included. Still under 2-year warrantee. Will ship free in the US. No signs of use. Appears to be new. |FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.)
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