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Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology. Masthead logo includes title as well as five stylized access logos, clockwise a long cane user, enlarged print, fingers signing interpreter, full braille cell, hearing aid user.

Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, April 29, 2021 - Volume 804

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: Commtech USA: Unbiased and Rock-Solid Support, Training and Information

The Commtech USA logo sits to the right of a QWERTY keyboard whose enter key has been replaced with a blue access key.

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 2021
https://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 2021
https://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.html

2) 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:

Where does your imagination take you? Embark on an audio adventure with APH and Audiojack - an app for iOS and Android devices, comprised only of sound designs that tell a story for your imagination!
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/

American Printing House (APH) logo.

Sponsor Since: July 2nd 2020 Calendar icon.

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:

A Month of Excitement. New Products For You:
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

GuideLights And Gadgets logo. The silhouette of a man with a cane in one hand and the harness of a trained guide dog in the other walk together through the grass at sunrise. GuideLights And Gadgets. Personal. Affordable. Responsive. Trusted.

Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020 Calendar icon.

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:

Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub
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

A. T. Guys logo.

Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020 Calendar icon.

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:

May 22nd 2021: Zoom Webinar by World-Renowned Apple Trainer and Consultant John Panarese and Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP) Donna Jodhan
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 📧️.

MacForTheBlind.com logo.

Director, https://www.MacForTheBlind.com
Authorized Apple Business Affiliate
Apple Certified Support Professional
Apple Certified Trainer
Assistive Technology Consultant

Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020 Calendar icon.

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:

Voice Training
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

Top Tech Tidbits logo.

Sponsor Since: June 4th 2020 Calendar icon.

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:

Training to Fit Your Needs Do you have a device you just don't understand? Do you want to advance your skills on a certain platform? Let Commtech help you out! From phones to note takers to computers and everything in between, let Commtech give you the skills you need to succeed. For more information, call (833) 345-8324 📱️ EXT 700 or visit our website:
https://commtechusa.net/store

Commtech USA logo.

Sponsor Since: April 22nd 2021 Calendar icon.

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:

Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays
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

Freedom Scientific logo.

Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021 Calendar icon.

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:

FREE Virtual National Coding Symposium
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/

APH ConnectCenter logo.

Sponsor Since: March 4th 2021 Calendar icon.

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:

BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here!
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

Humanware logo.

Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021 Calendar icon.

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:

SuperNova — It's Magnification and So Much More
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

Dolphin logo.

Sponsor Since: January 28th 2021 Calendar icon.

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 Joins Be My Eyes
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

Be My Eyes logo.

Sponsor Since: November 5th 2020 Calendar icon.

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:

LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store 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!

LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store logo.

Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020 Calendar icon.

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.


Your Name Here
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