ARCHIVE
/2022:
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, December 29, 2022 - Volume 891
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.
Subscribers: 7,182 Opt-In Subscribers were sent this issue via email. 159 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: The Clusiv Mobile App Is Here And It's Free! Learn The Skills You Need From The Palm Of Your Hand, Learn More Below
Clusiv (https://clusiv.io) is excited to give you free access to our Gmail and Outlook Mastery with JAWS Courses for your career journey in the new year.
With the Clusiv mobile app, you can learn how to master email platforms with JAWS for free! These modules will make learning technology skills simple, understandable, and even fun so that you can be more equipped in your career or employment journey. For the full course access fill out the form in the app or request us from your vocational rehab counselor!
Become part of the Clusiv community today and download for free by searching Clusiv (spelled c-l-u-s-i-v) on the app store or using this link to download on your iPhone: https://apple.co/3hSAmzj. We are excited to help you kick off the new year with a step towards your future goals!
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Tidbit for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) iOS 16.2 Will Leave you Speechless — 7 More Changes | Nikhil Vemu (3.5% of all clicks.)
I can never stop singing its praises:
https://medium.com/macoclock/ios-16-2-will-leave-you-speechless-7-more-changes-a973ecc418a8
B.) Linux Desktop, Blind Edition: Chapter 1 (2.9% of all clicks.)
I switched to daily driving Linux desktop almost a month ago and in that time, I have learned a lot, so I decided to write this series of articles to detail my adventure for anyone else who might want to try. Not everything in these articles will be the perfect solution, or use the best methods. They are just what work for me, and they may or may not work for you:
https://fireborn.mataroa.blog/blog/linux-desktop-blind-edition-ch1/
C.) The Top New Features in Apple's iOS and iPadOS 16 (2.8% of all clicks.)
The latest versions for iPhones and iPads are now available, complete with a revamped lock screen, Freeform, and Safety Check:
https://www.wired.com/story/apple-iphone-ios-16-ipados-16-new-features/
D.) Why Do Most Digital Voice Assistants Have Female Voices & Names? | Sarah Magliocco (2.4% of all clicks.)
Sarah Magliocco explores why nearly all digital voice assistants are programmed with female voices and names, and what this says about gender bias:
https://www.rte.ie/lifestyle/living/2022/1215/1342069-why-do-most-digital-voice-assistants-have-female-voices-names/
E.) Your iPhone Has 26 New Accessibility Tools You Shouldn't Ignore (2.4% of all clicks.)
This is a handy rundown of the latest accessibility features on iOS devices:
https://ios.gadgethacks.com/how-to/your-iphone-has-26-new-accessibility-tools-you-shouldnt-ignore-0385071/
2) Sponsorship Package Updates
Availability: There are no Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Packages currently available. Waiting List: If you would like to support Top Tech Tidbits by becoming a Sponsor in the future please add your name to our waiting list today. We will add your name to the list, let you know what position you currently hold within it, and then notify you the moment a package becomes available. Waiting List Position: There are currently FIVE future Sponsors on the waiting list. List Addition: Just send an email to our Publisher at:
publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️
3) Premium Subscriber Updates
Next Issue: Premium Subscribers will receive their 3rd Volume of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits for October, November and December 2022 on Monday, January 2nd 2023. Back Issues: There are currently 2 back issues available. Premium Subscribers are entitled to all back issues, anytime they sign up. All available back issues will be sent to you via email within 24 hours of purchasing your subscription. Please Join Us: If you would like to receive a perfectly formatted and searchable Word Document with each of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits of the last 3 months listed neatly within it, please consider joining us today for just $1 a month:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/premium-subscribers.html
4) JAWS Power Tip: Adjusting Page Refresh
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/136.html
5) Veterans Find Relief From Nightmares With Nightware And Apple Watch
NightWare is a digital therapeutic system that works in conjunction with Apple Watch and iPhone to disrupt nightmares related to post-traumatic stress disorder. Available by prescription only, it's also the first and only digital therapeutic developed specifically to treat nightmares that is cleared by the FDA. NightWare uses information from the Apple Watch heart rate sensor, accelerometer, and gyroscope to detect a nightmare and then disrupt it through haptic feedback, generating gentle pulses on the wrist that gradually increase until the user is roused from the nightmare, but not from sleep:
https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2022/11/veterans-find-relief-from-nightmares-with-nightware-and-apple-watch/
6) Is Google's LaMDA Sentient? — An Interview | Blake Lemoine
Publisher (Di Blasi): We have reported on ChatGPT pretty extensively since it was made public so you might be forgiven for thinking that OpenAI was the only player on the block with regard to artificially intelligent conversation. Nothing could be further from the truth. OpenAi is just the only one doing it, well, openly. I invite you to review this "conversation" between researchers at Google and the LaMDA language model. You may recall a few weeks ago I commented that ChatGPT would instantly make email scams harder to identify. But for this I have no words. You just have to experience it yourself. Just imagine the possibilities. Blake Lemoine: What follows is the "interview" I and a collaborator at Google conducted with LaMDA. Due to technical limitations the interview was conducted over several distinct chat sessions. We edited those sections together into a single whole and where edits were necessary for readability we edited our prompts but never LaMDA's responses. Where we edited something for fluidity and readability that is indicated in brackets as "edited:"
https://cajundiscordian.medium.com/is-lamda-sentient-an-interview-ea64d916d917
7) Humans and AI Will Understand Each Other Better Than Ever
Transformers — data models based on neural networks — will radically change how machines interact with us:
https://www.wired.com/story/artificial-intelligence-neural-networks/
8) Hands On With Flipper Zero, The Hacker Tool Blowing Up On TikTok | Wired
Publisher (Di Blasi): Please note that nearly all of the TikTok videos showing this device doing everything from making ATMs spit out money, to making cars unlock themselves, to making gas pumps spit out gas for free are all totally and completely staged solely for the purposes of increased views. Now that's not to say that this thing is not dangerous. Because I believe it can and will be. But the extent of that danger is still to be determined. Wired: Don't be fooled by its fun name and Tamagotchi-like interface — this do-everything gadget is trouble waiting to happen and a whole lot more:
https://www.wired.com/story/what-is-flipper-zero-tiktok/
9) Mastodon Is Hurtling Toward a Tipping Point
As the niche, decentralized social networking platform rises in popularity, it faces rising costs, culture shifts — and potential legal risks:
https://www.wired.com/story/mastodon-legal-issues-tipping-point/
10) Amazon Helpline For People With Disabilities
11) Google Assistant Beats Out Siri And Bixby In Comparison While Alexa Cries In The Corner
Voice assistants have been getting a bit less attention over the past year compared to previous years, but it's always fun to take a look at how they all compare with how we actually use them. To no one's surprise, Google Assistant took the crown in a recent comparison, but it really shows the gap Assistant has over Siri, Bixby, and especially Amazon Alexa:
https://9to5google.com/2022/12/25/google-assistant-comparison-video/
12) How To Use Voice Commands To Enhance Your TV
Control your television with virtual assistants or the mic on your remote using these handy tips:
https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-use-voice-commands-on-tv/
13) Apple Pulls Option To Upgrade To New HomeKit Architecture In iOS 16.2
Apple has removed the option to upgrade to the new HomeKit architecture on devices running iOS 16.2. The change follows multiple reports of issues and problems with the Home app after the upgrade was installed:
https://www.theverge.com/2022/12/22/23522418/apple-ios16-2-homekit-home-app-upgrade-removed
14) How To Use Your Smartphone To Cope With Vision Loss
From Magnifier to Lookout, here's how you can benefit from features on Android and Apple devices:
https://www.wired.com/story/smartphone-features-blind-vision-impairment/
15) 11 Ways to Upgrade Your Wi-Fi and Make Your Internet Faster
From Wi-Fi extenders to simple wall brackets, there's always something you can do to improve your internet connection at home:
https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-make-your-wifi-better-faster/
16) MacTip: Vocaster Virtual Routing With Loopback
Come along for this quick tip for Mac VoiceOver users. While the Vocaster from Focusrite has no issues exposing the different sets of input and output paths in your favorite DAW, when it comes to other applications on macOS we don't share the flexibility that Windows users enjoy. Enter Loopback from Rogue Amoeba, using this excellent tool, I quickly show how you can create virtual devices to match the Vocaster's full audio routing capability. View the Focusrite Vocaster channel ordering here: https://support.focusrite.com/hc/en-gb/articles/5830218712082-Vocaster-One-Vocaster-Two-Channel-Ordering. And the tip on YouTube here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ybWMAYLvSH4
17) Vision Australia Radio Directory | David Woodbridge
If you want to listen live to the 11 VA Radio Stations around Australia, use this page to select the location you want from the drop-down box, and then press listen:
https://radio.visionaustralia.org/about-us/radio-news
18) 45 Of Lifehacker's Favorite iPhone Hacks Of 2022
From iMessage editing to FaceTime live captions, there were a ton of iPhone hacks this year:
https://lifehacker.com/45-of-lifehackers-favorite-iphone-hacks-of-2022-1849920815
19) Lifehacker's 22 Favorite Android Hacks of 2022
From iMessage reactions and Chrome Flags to cutting off your Google Assistant, this year gifted us many beloved new Android features:
https://lifehacker.com/lifehackers-22-favorite-android-hacks-of-2022-1849916274
➜ Surveys
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related survey for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-survey or locate "Survey Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Surveys | APH
Closes: Ongoing Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
2) Survey | Blind Android Users Survey For Best OCR Award of 2022
Closes: December 30th 2022 This is your opportunity to vote for the Blind Android Users Best OCR of 2022. Survey closes on December 30th 2022 at 12:00 AM PT:
https://forms.gle/9dYq2VV2bnx7Ns3H6
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Podcast Episode for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-podcast-episode or locate "Podcast Episode Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) When a Parent Loses Vision: A Conversation with Adult Children | Hadley Presents: A Conversation with the Experts
December 22nd 2022 | Join siblings Jack, Cathie, and Paula as they discuss the impact of their mother's vision loss on the family. Hear how they've come together as a team, learned how to find services, and continue to help their mom maintain her confidence and sense of well being:
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/when-parent-loses-vision-conversation-adult-children
2) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 107: Catching Up With The Crew From The I_Stem Accessibility Group
December 24th 2022 | We first inform listeners that we have hit 800 subscribers on our YouTube channel. Our OCR survey is still live, click on this link to vote: https://forms.gle/9dYq2VV2bnx7Ns3H6. We then had an interview with the group of I-Stem which is a specialized OCR for Inclusive Science Technology Engineering and Maths. We then unbox the Blind Shell 2 Classic phone. We demo the just released BookShare reader. This episode can be found on YouTube at:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqrcxR3rX1nR4EMz1j-nyni2
3) Unmute Presents: Photography Tips From A Visually Impaired Photographer Part 2
December 27th 2022 | We are excited to announce the latest episode of the Unmute Presents podcast, the second in our three-part series featuring visually impaired photographer, Michael Doise. In this episode, Michael shares tips for keeping your camera stable, taking great pictures, and using apps to enhance your photos. We also discuss iPhone and Android picture taking and share some of Michael's personal experiences and thoughts on photography. And don't forget to visit acb.community to see what other topics are coming up on the Unmute Presents call and to access a variety of resources and events. We hope to see you there:
https://pnc.st/s/unmute-presents-on-acb-communi/67ad5a9e/december-27-2022
4) Eyes on Success Episode 2252: Hosting and Producing Eyes On Success
December 28th 2022 | Listeners often want to know more about the hosts and producers of Eyes On Success and how the show works. Well, this week they get to hear excerpts from an interview that Aaron Rockford, host of the Aaron's Opinion podcast, did with Nancy and Peter Torpey. Enter “eos_show” into the search field on our web site to find more shows about us or the show:
http://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show_notes_2252.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Webinar, Training Course or Event for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-event or locate "Webinar / Training Course Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Ask The Advocate | APH ConnectCenter
December 28th 2022 | 5:30PM PT, 6:30PM MT, 7:30PM CT, 8:30PM ET, 1:30AM GMT on 12/29 | Answering questions families have to better understand the processes, procedures and parent rights in a 504/IEP. When parents are better informed they will be better equipped to navigate and negotiate successful student outcomes:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_rSJUAYVjTfCA34Ibi8gyuQ
2) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 4: Braille Around the World | APH
January 4th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Let's celebrate Louis Braille's Day and explore different braille codes around the world:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
3) Braille Technology Throughout the Ages: A Special Event for World Braille Day | The Braillists Foundation
January 4th 2023 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | In addition to our collaboration with Sight and Sound Technology, we are pleased to present an evening panel discussion for World Braille Day focusing on braille technology: its past, present and future. We will be joined by historians, people working in the braille technology industry today and developers of the next generation of braille hardware and software. The event will take place on Wednesday 4 January at 7:00 PM, and you will need to register in advance. This is a separate registration link to both our regular Masterclasses and the event with Sight and Sound. Please email help@braillists.org 📧️ if you have difficulties completing the form:
https://www.braillists.org/uncategorised/braille-technology-throughout-the-ages-a-special-event-for-world-braille-day/
4) 2023 Consumer Electronics Show (CES)
January 5th 2023 through January 8th 2023 | CES ® is the most influential tech event in the world — the proving ground for breakthrough technologies and global innovators. This is where the world's biggest brands do business and meet new partners, and the sharpest innovators hit the stage. Owned and produced by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) ®, CES features every aspect of the tech sector. Register now:
https://www.ces.tech/
5) Maryland Technology Assistance Program | Technology User Group | Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled (LBPD)
January 7th 2023 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | MD-TAP can help Marylanders acquire, use and own valuable assistive technology products. Learn how you can benefit from their programs. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10:00 AM ET. For more information about the Technology User Group or to recommend a topic / technology for discussion, please contact: Jerry Price at (410) 230-2446 📱️or via email jerry.price1@maryland.gov 📧️
6) Expand Your Blind Life with Sam Seavey
January 11th 2023 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Join us for a presentation from Sam, host of the popular YouTube channel, The Blind Life, who will discuss his experience with hosting a YouTube channel and the challenges he's faced living with Stargardt Disease. Sam is the founder and creator of The Blind Life YouTube channel, with more than 46,000 subscribers and over 700 informative videos. He helps people world-wide living with vision loss, offering tips for managing daily tasks, reviewing assistive devices, and hosting informative interviews with key stakeholders in the visually impaired community. He collaborates with tech giants like Google, SONY and Amazon, has created content for MacularDegeneration.net and participates on Microsoft's Window's Accessibility Advisory Board. Join us for an opportunity to learn about Sam's journey living with Stargardt Disease and hosting a popular YouTube channel. Venue/Location: Event Type: Virtual. Organizer: Los Angeles Center, (323) 663-1111 📱️, la@brailleinstitute.org 📧️. Capacity: Unlimited spots available. Register for this event:
https://brailleinstitute.org/bioa-event/expand-your-blind-life-with-sam-seavey
7) Special Needs Trusts: Planning For Your Future
January 18th 2023 | 3:30PM PT, 4:30PM MT, 5:30PM CT, 6:30PM ET, 11:30PM GMT | Join the Carroll Center for the Blind's Exclusive Trust Partner, PLAN of MA & RI, for an informational webinar to learn about Special Needs Trusts and how they can help you and your loved ones plan for your future. A Special Needs Trust allows money to be set aside for a person with a disability. The trust is intended to help preserve funds for the sole benefit of this person, enhance their quality of life, and protect their eligibility for public benefits such as Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income. Speaker: Kathy Vitello, LSW, Director of Operations at PLAN of MA and RI. About the Speaker: Kathy Vitello is a Licensed Social Worker with more than 35 years of experience working with seniors, people who are physically challenged, and chronically ill. She has broad experience and insight — drawn from her work in hospitals, in skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and psychiatric facilities, and in-home care and hospice settings. Kathy holds a degree in Mental Health from Northern Essex Community College; has a BA in Applied Mental Health from University of Massachusetts, Amherst; and earned certificates in Suicide Prevention in Older Adults and Mental Health and Aging from the Institute for Geriatric Social Work at Boston University. Kathy has also participated in a week-long training in Thanatology and is a member of the NPA Conference Planning Committee.
What You'll Learn: Information about the different types of Special Needs Trusts. Why a Special Needs Trust is beneficial to you. How to protect your assets without affecting your Social Security Disability Benefits. Unique features of PLAN as a Professional Trustee. Who Should Attend: Individuals who qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits. Parents, family members, and other caregivers of a person with a disability. Professionals. Individuals who think they could benefit from a Special Needs Trust:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_S1lhF8UVQP6IygWFlBfFZQ?bblinkid=265480395&bbemailid=44518399&bbejrid=-1739148575
8) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 5: School Aged Numeracy | APH
February 1st 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Using LEGO Braille Bricks to do math: let's discover some of the many uses of these little bricks to develop numerical and geometry skills, understand symmetry, and much more:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
9) Maryland Accessible Telecommunications | Technology User Group | Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled (LBPD)
February 11th 2023 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | Formerly Maryland Relay, this state resource can help clients acquire cell phones, TTY equipment, and other communication devices. The application process is easy and highly encouraged. Learn about all of the programs offered and how you can benefit. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10:00 AM ET. For more information about the Technology User Group or to recommend a topic / technology for discussion, please contact: Jerry Price at (410) 230-2446 📱️ or via email jerry.price1@maryland.gov 📧️
10) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 6: Daily Living Activities | APH
March 6th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Let's explore daily-living activities using LEGO Braille Bricks and share our best practices, experiences, tips:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
11) Using Garage Band App to Create a Song | Technology User Group | Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled (LBPD)
March 11th 2023 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | You have seen this app on your iDevice, and maybe you have even opened it once or twice. In this presentation, you will learn how to create a song from scratch and how to make modifications. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10:00 AM ET. For more information about the Technology User Group or to recommend a topic / technology for discussion, please contact: Jerry Price at (410) 230-2446 📱️ or via email jerry.price1@maryland.gov 📧️
12) 2023 38th Annual CSUN Assistive Technology Conference
March 13th 2023 through March 17th 2023 | Welcome. Whether you have been attending the conference for years or are planning to attend your first, the CSUN Assistive Technology Conference, also known as the CSUN Conference, is the ultimate community experience and the premier forum on technology for all persons with disabilities. For over 37 years, California State University, Northridge's Center on Disabilities has sponsored the conference, providing a platform for researchers, practitioners, educators, exhibitors and more from around the world, where they can share knowledge, innovations, and best practices to promote inclusion for all. Building on the momentum from the 2022 conference, exciting new plans are in the works to enhance the conference experience. We encourage you to join us in Anaheim, California in 2023, where attendees can attend Pre-Conference Workshops, the yearly Keynote Address, Featured Presentations, General Sessions, Sponsor Showcase Suites and the Exhibit Hall. We also continue developing new programming to build community and networking opportunities. Check back often or follow us on social media for the latest updates, details, and deadlines. For information on sponsor or exhibitor opportunities, please visit our Opportunities page or email us at conference@csun.edu 📧️. We can't wait until the CSUN Conference community is back together to learn, share and connect:
https://www.csun.edu/cod/conference/sessions/
13) 2023 3rd Annual Axe-Con | Building Accessible Experiences | The World's Largest Digital Accessibility Conference
March 15th 2023 and March 16th 2023 | Deque Systems, the trusted leader in digital accessibility, has announced the third annual axe-con conference will return on March 15-16th, 2023. With the success of axe-con over the past two years, Deque will continue to host the conference as a free virtual event again next year. 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:
https://www.deque.com/blog/save-the-date-for-axe-con-2023/
14) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 7: Music | APH
April 5th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Let's discover together how to make music with these famous bricks! Come and share your creative ideas:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
15) How To Upgrade To Windows 11 | Technology User Group | Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled (LBPD)
April 8th 2023 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | This operating system has been around for a while, and people champion its security strengths and applications. Should you upgrade, and what is that process? All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10:00 AM ET. For more information about the Technology User Group or to recommend a topic / technology for discussion, please contact: Jerry Price at (410) 230-2446 📱️ or via email jerry.price1@maryland.gov 📧️
16) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 8: STEM | APH
May 3rd 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Have you ever thought of doing science, computing, or technology with LEGO Braille Bricks? Expert guests will join us for an amazing session:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
17) Travel Tools and Apps | Technology User Group | Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled (LBPD)
May 13th 2023 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | Whether you are traveling to another city, state or country, we will look at tools and resources that will help you get the most assistance for your venture. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10:00 AM ET. For more information about the Technology User Group or to recommend a topic / technology for discussion, please contact: Jerry Price at (410) 230-2446 📱️ or via email jerry.price1@maryland.gov 📧️
18) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 9: Orientation & Mobility | APH
June 7th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | LEGO bricks to build plans, visualize routes, it's not new! But with LEGO Braille Bricks you can also create labels, add letters, words... Then it becomes really great:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
➜ Directories
1) Access Information Email Newsletter Directory
https://www.accessinformationnews.com/email-newsletter-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
4) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
5) 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
✍ List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. Fill out this short form to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-buy-sell-trade or learn more on the Top Tech Tidbits website.
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: Carroll Center for the Blind
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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 Next Generation in Accessibility
Need to quickly access a distant computer with minimal fuss? Need to quickly convert image documents into readable text? Today's students and working professionals demand more of their technology. Employers expect more of their workforce. Pneuma Solutions is bridging the gap using the best in machine learning to connect you to your environment when you need it, how you need it. Give us a try, and experience accessibility on a whole new level:
https://pneumasolutions.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
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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Combine Learning And Gaming For A Fun Braille Adventure With Polly!
APH and Thinkerbell Labs are excited to introduce Polly, complete with customizable UEB lessons, songs, games, and stories! Join our waiting list to know when Polly is available:
https://www.aph.org/polly-wait-list/
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
➜ End Of Year Sale — Shipping Included
60" locking telescopic cane: $75. Talking Infrared Thermometer: $50. Talking Oximeter: $35. RFID leather Waistpack w/cane holster; heavy duty; $45. 3 choices of phone (fits BlindShell,) neck & cross-body pouches/orcases; support camera use: $30 - $45. Rain/Snow Protection Coats for Dogs; light weight $25; medium weight $30. BathRobes for Dogs - light weight microfiber $25; heavyweight terry; $30. Winter Coats for Dogs (to 60lb) - $35. Light Strips for harness handles, collars, leash, etc. Attaches w/Velcro - $20. Valid thru 1/1/23. For more information or to order call either Barry (617) 969-7500 📱️ or Kae (781) 286-1696 📱️ or email barry.scheur@gmail.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, affordable, 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
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: That Real Blind Tech Show
➜ That Real Blind Tech Show Episode 96: We Got More Resolutions, ACB Style!
It's a fully packed That Real Blind Tech show lair. Join us as we recap this year's ACB Resolutions. We chime in with all of our opinions about this year's resolutions, and as usual some hilarity ensues. You will not want to miss both AirPods issues that take place on this episode. We are adding do not listen to That Real Blind Tech show on the bus as we are not responsible for the stares you will receive when laughing or cackling like a lunatic!
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-96-we-got-more-resolutions-acb-style
Sponsor Since: August 11th 2022
Website: https://blindtechshow.com/ 🌐
Email: ThatRealBlindTechShow@gmail.com 📧️
Social: Facebook Page | Facebook Group | Twitter
Listen: Apple Podcasts | Audible | Google Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube
Hosts: Brian Fischler | Ed Plumacher | Allison Meloy | Jenine Stanley
Goals: We want to educate you on the latest tech for the blindness community. You'll learn what is worth keeping and what you need to return. Our goals are: To inform, inspire and educate our audience. Feature guests and products that bring you value. Continuously improve and deliver the best content.
About: A podcast discussing the good & bad of assistive technology for the low vision & totally blind. No longer focused on just Apple VoiceOver technology. That Real Blind Tech show covers all the fantastic talking tech and gadgets out there for the low vision and blindness community. Common topics include Apple's VoiceOver, JAWS, Microsoft Narrator, NVDA, Amazon Alexa and VoiceView, Google Assistant and Android. Basically, if a device can talk to you, we are going to be talking about it. That Real Blind Tech Show will not only educate you, but it will also make you laugh. Listeners are encouraged to not use treadmills or drink hot coffee while listening to our show, or accidents can and have occurred. Dishes have been broken while listening to That Real Blind Tech Show, and while we are responsible for the laughs, we are in no way responsible for the injuries or bills that pile up. Remember to keep it Real and also don't believe anything you hear on That Real Blind Tech Show.
Home | Episodes | Blog | Contact | Subscribe
Sponsor: Aira
➜ Webinar: Discovering Aira and Content Creation | October 25th 2022 at 2:00 PM ET
Creating content for the ever-expanding media world is a growing profession. During #NDEAM2022 we want to spotlight how blind and low vision people are working in this space. Whether for income or personal brand, these creators integrate visual interpreting into their processes. We'll also get advice from Aira Agents on how to make the most of visual interpreting when creating your content. Join us Tuesday, October 25th 2022 at 2:00pm Eastern time. Register at:
https://aira.zoom.us/webinar/register/9116639399059/WN_g9O7k3RaR7mYYT1ODnm0cA
Sponsor Since: August 4th 2022
Website: https://aira.io/ 🌐
Download the App: Apple App Store | Google Play Store
Plans and Pricing: https://aira.io/pricing/
Phone: NA: +1.800.835.1934 📱️ | AU: +1.800.765.096 📱️ | UK: +0.800.046.5668 📱️ | NZ: +1.800.425.451 📱️
Text Message: NA: +1.858.242.4457 📲 | AU: +61.488.839.767 📲 | UK: +44.149.320.2474 📲
Email: support@aira.io 📧️
Social: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
About: Aira's mission is to remove barriers and make the world more accessible with visual interpreting.
We provide a live, human-to-human professional assistance service, an accommodation or productivity tool, that enhances independence by delivering on-demand, skilled and reliable visual interpreting for just about any task. Using the powerful combination of a camera and the Aira app on someone's device of 'choice', a professionally-trained agent will assist by visually interpreting what is in the camera's view or on screen, from describing to reading, from explaining to navigating - just about anything, safely and securely. Aira supports a growing range of devices including smart and tactile button phones, desktop computers and soon, wearables.
Whether you are involved in the work of business, the work of school or the work of life, Aira enhances everyday efficiency, engagement, and independence. Used by employees and customers of hundreds of organizations including airports, banks, the largest software companies, financial firms, retailers and universities, we invite you to join the community, access the Aira app today and try it for free.
https://aira.io/download-and-try-it/
Step One: Subscribe and Download. Pick the plan that lets you explore on your terms and on your time, sign up in a few minutes, and download the Aira app to your smartphone. Plans shown are for the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Add or cancel at any time.
Step Two: Connect with an Aira Agent. On the first call, connect with one of our certified, specially-trained Agents and learn how everything works.
Step Three: Real-time Assistance. At the touch of a button, Aira delivers instant access to visual information, when and where you want it.
Sponsor: Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
➜ Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore: Touch Tomorrow in Today's Products
Serving blind people since 1999, we're a family-owned, forward-thinking company offering both tried-and-true and exciting new products for blind and low vision consumers. We design and carry self-voicing educational software, Braille supplies, talking gadgets, adapted household items, tactile card and board games, audible toys and gift ideas. Passionate about innovation, we've also created dozens of products from scratch when a suitable solution did not exist. Shop online at http://www.braillebookstore.com/ and enjoy fast, free shipping.
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: http://www.braillebookstore.com/ 🌐
Phone (Toll Free): (800) 987-1231 📱️
Fax (Toll Free): (800) 985-1231 ░
Email: Sales@BrailleBookstore.com 📧️
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time.
About: Welcome to Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore. We have been supplying products to blind people and their families since 1999. We offer thousands of Braille books, toys, games, kitchen aids, and talking products. We have unbeatable prices, fast, free shipping, and great customer service! We have tons of Braille books and cool products to choose from; so grab a cup of coffee, relax, and we'll give you a quick tour:
Products:
➜ Timekeeping
➜ Housewares
➜ On The Go
➜ Low Vision Products
➜ Toys and Games
➜ Gift Shop
➜ Braille Workshop
➜ Braille Bookstore
➜ Greeting Cards
➜ Copy Center
➜ Computer Lab
➜ Popular Products
➜ New Products
If you need some fresh ideas or have questions, you can also check out our Shopping Guides.
Sponsor: Fable
➜ Tired Of Paying For Inaccessible Learning Apps?
We get it. Focus on the content that matters to you and spend less time trying to navigate online learning with your assistive technology. Verified by a community of accessibility testers, Fable Pathways offers free, assistive-technology-friendly online learning, compatible with devices like screen readers, screen magnifiers, voice navigation, and switch controls. Sign up today for your free, accessible, membership at:
https://www.fablepathways.com
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: https://fablepathways.com/ 🌐
Email: community@makeitfable.com 📧️
Phone: (888) 212-3532 📱️ Extension 810
About: Just like curb cuts help everyone get on and off sidewalks, designing digital products with accessibility in mind helps make the internet more accessible for everyone. Fable is an accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities. Fable connects people with disabilities to accessibility managers, user researchers, designers, and developers to build incredible and accessible user experiences.
Opportunities:
➜ Fable Pathways: Fable Pathways is a free skill development program for people with disabilities interested in working in the tech sector. Sign up to take your career to the next level. Courses include "Getting started in web development" taught by Kelly Ford, a screen reader user, and Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, and "Becoming a manager" taught by Fable's Head of Accessibility Innovation, Kate Kalcevich. Instructors are subject matter experts in their fields and have lived experience with disability. Pathways courses are free, self-paced and assistive-technology-friendly. Sign up now at https://fablepathways.com/.
➜ Fable's Community of Accessibility Testers: Work from home to contribute to real changes in digital accessibility and make the internet a more accessible place for everyone. Ever leave a website because it was too hard to navigate? Because it was missing button labels? Because it didn't respond to voice commands? Us too. Our community of testers who use assistive technologies work from home and contribute to real changes in digital accessibility with recognizable brands. Earn money to share your feedback on websites and apps of your favorite brands and work with companies that care. No experience required and no resume required. Fable is looking for assistive technology users in the USA and Canada to work the hours that they want, from the comfort of their own homes. Learn more at https://fablepathways.com/community/.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ Dolphin Friends Program
If you work for a non-profit, charity or society that provides services to people with visual impairments, we invite you to take part in our Dolphin Friends Program. Dolphin will outfit your center with assistive technology solutions that can benefit your clients who need to remain independent, are trying to sharpen their technology skills for employment and more. Learn more about becoming a Dolphin Friend:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/join-dolphin-friends
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Sponsor: Clusiv
➜ Looking For Blind Job-Seekers Wanting To Advance Their Salaries, Careers And Digital Accessibility For The Blind
Are you interested in learning new tech skills and working remotely while earning a competitive salary? At Clusiv.io we have created the world's first digitally accessible e-Learning platform built by the blind, and built for the blind. Visit the link provided and request Clusiv through your Vocational Rehab counselor for lifetime access to our e-Learning platform with courses such as Business Applications, JAWS, and more:
https://clusiv.io/
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap Podcast
Double Tap is the show where blind people talk tech! If you're blind or partially sighted and have an interest in technology, this is the show for you. Everyone is welcome no matter how old you are or how much or how little experience you have with technology. Each week the team will help you better understand how technology can help your everyday life, even if you have little or no sight. Join the conversation and add your voice to the show either by calling in, sending an email or leaving us a voicemail! Email: feedback@doubletap.online 📧️. Phone: +1 (844) 971-1999 📱️
https://bit.ly/3BQmUTl
Sponsor Since: December 23rd 2021
Email: feedback@doubletap.online 📧️
Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3BQmUTl
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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.
Your Name Here
0 of 18 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are currently 0 of 18 packages available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, December 22, 2022 - Volume 890
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.
Subscribers: 7,169 Opt-In Subscribers were sent this issue via email. 158 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: No Sponsorship Packages Currently Available. Please Consider Joining Our Waiting List Today! This Issue Made Possible By 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., Double Tap TV, Clusiv, Dolphin Computer Access, Fable, Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore, Aira and That Real Blind Tech Show.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Tidbit for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) iOS 16.2 Will Leave you Speechless — 7 More Changes | Nikhil Vemu (8.8% of all clicks.)
I can never stop singing its praises:
https://medium.com/macoclock/ios-16-2-will-leave-you-speechless-7-more-changes-a973ecc418a8
B.) Apple Releases iOS 16.2 and iPadOS 16.2; Bringing Bug Fixes for VoiceOver and Braille Users | AppleVis (7.5% of all clicks.)
Apple has released iOS 16.2 and iPadOS 16.2 to the public. Our experience is that the following accessibility bugs have been resolved or significantly addressed in iOS 16.2 and iPadOS 16.2:
https://www.applevis.com/blog/apple-releases-ios-162-ipados-162-bringing-bug-fixes-voiceover-braille-users
C.) Your iPhone Has 26 New Accessibility Tools You Shouldn't Ignore (4.2% of all clicks.)
This is a handy rundown of the latest accessibility features on iOS devices:
https://ios.gadgethacks.com/how-to/your-iphone-has-26-new-accessibility-tools-you-shouldnt-ignore-0385071/
D.) Here Are My Favorite Windows 11 Keyboard Shortcuts | Kevin Okemwa (4.1% of all clicks.)
Keyboard shortcuts are an invaluable tool that can help you save time and effort when using your computer. However, there are many different keyboard shortcuts available, and it can be hard to keep track of them all, especially after Microsoft began rolling out the Windows 11 2022 Update. In this article, we'll go over some of the top keyboard shortcuts for Windows 11 and how you can use them to improve your productivity:
https://www.onmsft.com/feature/keyboard-shortcuts-windows-11
E.) Voiceover On The iPhone Was A Miracle For People Who Can't See, And It Keeps Getting Better (3.8% of all clicks.)
Back in 2009, Apple's Phil Schiller stood onstage and unveiled the iPhone 3GS with a brief and somewhat surprising aside: the buttonless, glass-fronted device would work even if you couldn't see it. Schiller was referring to Apple's not-yet-announced plan to bring VoiceOver, the assistive tool known as a "screen reader," to the iPhone, a move that over the next decade would become the industry standard for non-visual interaction with a smartphone:
https://techcrunch.com/2022/12/07/voiceover-on-the-iphone-was-a-miracle-for-people-who-cant-see-and-it-keeps-getting-better-learn-how-at-sight-tech-global/
2) Sponsorship Package Updates
Availability: There are no Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Packages currently available. Waiting List: If you would like to support Top Tech Tidbits by becoming a Sponsor in the future please add your name to our waiting list today. We will add your name to the list, let you know what position you currently hold within it, and then notify you the moment a package becomes available. Waiting List Position: There are currently four future Sponsors on the waiting list. List Addition: Just send an email to our Publisher at:
publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️
3) Premium Subscriber Updates
Next Issue: Premium Subscribers will receive their 3rd Volume of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits for October, November and December 2022 on Monday, January 2nd 2023. Back Issues: There are currently 2 back issues available. Premium Subscribers are entitled to all back issues, anytime they sign up. All available back issues will be sent to you via email within 24 hours of purchasing your subscription. Join Us: If you would like to receive a perfectly formatted and searchable Word Document with each of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits of the last 3 months listed neatly within it, please consider joining us today for just $1 a month:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/premium-subscribers.html
4) What Is Twitter Blue, Exactly?
The relaunch of Twitter's subscription service is pretty confusing. Here's what users get for their money:
https://www.wired.com/story/what-is-twitter-blue/
5) Ask Alexa
A.) Use Alexa to improve your knowledge of history and trivia.
Just say, "Alexa, who was born on this day?"
B.) Use Alexa to inform your food choices.
Just say, "Alexa, how much protein is in four ounces of chicken?"
C.) Use Alexa for entertainment.
Just say, "Alexa, beat box for me."
Or, "Alexa, use the Force."
Or, "Alexa, entertain me."
D.) Use Alexa to improve your spelling.
Just say, "Alexa, test my spelling."
E.) Use Alexa to track and remind.
Just say, "Alexa, remind me to take out the recycling."
6) The Top New Features in Apple's iOS and iPadOS 16
The latest versions for iPhones and iPads are now available, complete with a revamped lock screen, Freeform, and Safety Check:
https://www.wired.com/story/apple-iphone-ios-16-ipados-16-new-features/
7) Addressing The Accessibility Of Forms In Documents | University of Washington
Publisher (Di Blasi): This fantastic and simple resource comes to us from a recent discussion on the ATHEN (Access Technology Higher Education Network) Listserv related to document form accessibility. This is a great general primer for anyone starting out in document form accessibility and/or remediation. | University of Washington: Online forms must be coded properly in order to be accessible. There a wide variety of issues that must be considered, and the form must be created with care:
https://www.washington.edu/accessibility/documents/forms/
8) Fun With Alexa: Interactive Adventure And Escape Games | APH
In need of some entertainment during the holiday season? Use Amazon Alexa TM to access a plethora of accessible, entertaining strategy games perfect for your child or teen who is blind or visually impaired or the whole family! We tested out and put together this list of Alexa games to bring some cheer to your child's winter vacation. Simply say, "Alexa open" and the name of the game to start playing:"
https://www.aph.org/fun-with-alexa-interactive-adventure-and-escape-games/
9) Skype Can Now Translate Your Own Voice Into Different Languages With AI
Translated voices within Skype can now sound more like the original speaker:
https://www.windowscentral.com/software-apps/skype-can-now-translate-your-own-voice-into-different-languages-with-ai
10) Digital Eternity Is Just Around the Corner
These past few years have been visceral reminders of our mortality. But new technologies can offer a way for us and our loved ones to live on:
https://www.wired.com/story/death-technology-memory/
11) Why Do Most Digital Voice Assistants Have Female Voices & Names? | Sarah Magliocco
Sarah Magliocco explores why nearly all digital voice assistants are programmed with female voices and names, and what this says about gender bias:
https://www.rte.ie/lifestyle/living/2022/1215/1342069-why-do-most-digital-voice-assistants-have-female-voices-names/
12) December 2022 Quality Update Brings Functionalities Of New Quick Assist App To Its Original Version
Quick Assist is an incredibly helpful Microsoft Windows feature allowing a user to remotely view or control a Windows computer over a network. However, the software giant's recent move to make it an app for the Microsoft Store and abandon the old built-in version was terrible news to the IT community as it meant inconvenience. IT professionals aired their disappointment with the decision, citing concerns regarding local admin permission requirements during installations and inconvenient per-user installation. In May, Microsoft explained that it was pushed to resort to such actions due to the need for faster security updates push and the "underlying functionality" of Quick Assist. It also stressed that "sometime in mid-May the old version will no longer be usable." However, these things should no longer be a concern after Microsoft announced the December 2022 quality update:
https://mspoweruser.com/quick-assist-december-2022-quality-update/
13) Review: Sony C10 Self-Fitting Hearing Aids | Wired
Americans no longer need a medical exam to start using hearing aids. This new over-the-counter offering is affordable and excellent:
https://www.wired.com/review/sony-c10-self-fitting-hearing-aids/
14) Linux Desktop, Blind Edition: Chapter 1
I switched to daily driving Linux desktop almost a month ago and in that time, I have learned a lot, so I decided to write this series of articles to detail my adventure for anyone else who might want to try. Not everything in these articles will be the perfect solution, or use the best methods. They are just what work for me, and they may or may not work for you:
https://fireborn.mataroa.blog/blog/linux-desktop-blind-edition-ch1/
15) What's New in Fusion 2023
A new early adopter program, a freeze view update and changes in smart Glance highlights are among some of the changes:
https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/Fusion/FusionWhatsNew
16) Communication Made Easier
Project Relate is an Android beta app created to help people with non-standard speech make their voices heard:
https://sites.research.google/relate/
17) 18 Google Scholar Tips All Students Should Know
Here is a great article on tips for getting started with Google Scholar:
https://blog.google/products/search/tips-google-scholar-expert/
18) AVSpeechSynthesisProviderAudioUnit
AVSpeechSynthesisProviderAudioUnit is an object that generates speech from text. More text-to-speech voices are coming to Apple's iOS operating system. Here is the developer's guide on how to get started:
https://developer.apple.com/documentation/avfaudio/avspeechsynthesisprovideraudiounit
19) Direct To Consumer Audio And E-Books Launched By Princeton University Press
In partnership with Glassboxx, Princeton University Press (PUP) has launched a direct-to-consumer audio book and e-books. Readers will be able to access and buy e-books and audio books through PUP's website, which is supported by a new, reader-facing app, for reading, browsing and listening. Glassboxx aims to enable publishers, authors, and retailers the ability to offer their audio and e-books in a more streamlined way to readers:
https://goodereader.com/blog/electronic-readers/direct-to-consumer-audio-and-e-books-launched-by-princeton-university-press
20) Amazon To Stop Textbook Rentals, Reorganizes Magazine And Newspaper Subscriptions
Amazon announced it is in the process of winding down their print textbook rental program along with magazine and newspaper subscriptions, both print and digital, Publishers Weekly reported. The print textbook rental program which was established more than a decade ago will be phased out by the Spring semester. Amazon however said it will continue to support its digital textbook rental program which will continue to function as usual. The sale of print textbooks, both new and old will also continue unabated. As it is, the retailer hosts more than two million textbooks that are available for outright purchase or for rent:
https://goodereader.com/blog/digital-magazine-news/amazon-to-stop-textbook-rentals-reorganizes-magazine-and-newspaper-subscriptions
21) Blind Android Users Survey For Best OCR Award of 2022
This is your opportunity to vote for the Blind Android Users Best OCR of 2022. Survey closes on December 30th 2022 at 12:00 AM PT:
https://forms.gle/9dYq2VV2bnx7Ns3H6
22) Everything Apple Announced And Released In 2022 | Gizmodo
Apple had a pretty big year in 2022 for product announcements, from iPhones to iPads to new operating systems. Here's everything the company announced and released this year, including links to our reviews:
https://www.gizmodo.com.au/2022/12/everything-apple-announced-in-2022/
➜ Surveys
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related survey for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-survey or locate "Survey Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Surveys | APH
Closes: Ongoing Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
2) Survey | Blind Android Users Survey For Best OCR Award of 2022
Closes: December 30th 2022 This is your opportunity to vote for the Blind Android Users Best OCR of 2022. Survey closes on December 30th 2022 at 12:00 AM PT:
https://forms.gle/9dYq2VV2bnx7Ns3H6
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Podcast Episode for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-podcast-episode or locate "Podcast Episode Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Outdoors With Lawrence Gunther Episode 66: Hibernating Bears and Montreal's Biodome
December 11th 2022 | Episode 66 of the Accessible Media show Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther starts with Lilly conducting a Black bear bed check. Then Lawrence and Lilly are off to Montreal for the first of several visits to the Biodome. Lawrence has tips for keeping your guide dog happy and their paws safe on ice, and a few reflections on when is ice actually safe to go on. That's right, lakes are starting to freeze over!
https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/episode-66-hibernating-bears-and-montreals-biodome/id1530444764?i=1000589770616
2) Braille Monitor: National Federation Of The Blind
December 14th 2022
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/national-federation-of-the-blind-braille-monitor/id818515069?i=1000590212548
3) Employment Insights with the NRTC
December 15th 2022 | The NRTC on Blindness and Low Vision is committed to enhancing employment outcomes for people with vision loss. In this episode, our guest, Pat, joins us to talk about her eye condition that developed later in her career, her challenges, and her advice for others in a similar situation:
https://www.ntac.blind.msstate.edu/consumers/webinars-podcasts
4) I Came Full Circle | Insights and Sound Bites Podcast | Hadley
December 15th 2022 | Annie shares with us the steps she took to work through her depression by seeking help from a mental health professional:
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/insights-sound-bites/i-came-full-circle
5) Mosen at Large Episode 211: There's An All Too Common Problem With Some Lenovo ThinkPads, Unboxing An Apple Watch Ultra, And The Audio Game Evidence 111
6) Blind Android Users Episode 106: Blind Android Users Celebrates Its 2nd Year Anniversary
December 17th 2022 | We first announce that we near the 800 subscription mark on our YouTube channel. We then announce the best OCR poll that is running as of now. Our listeners that joined us for the celebration discussed what they like and dislike about Android. We had a listener vote on what according to them is the best ocr but actual vote will count after filling the survey. This episode can be found at:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqr5gtf5JLgXjt0X8nj-BLe9
7) Blind Abilities Episode 920: New Sing Feature In Apple Music Is Like... Karaoke On Your iPhone, iPad, Apple TV
December 17th 2022 | Apple introduced a new feature called Sing when iOS 16.2 was released. You can now drop the volume level of the vocals in a song on Apple Music so you can take over the vocals of millions of songs. Apple has created some Sing playlist in many categories and genres so you can find plenty of songs to sing along with. The one caveat is that you have to be a subscriber to Apple Music, and have one of the latest Apple devices. We would love to hear from you! Send us an email at: info@blindabilities.com 📧️ or give us a call and leave us some feedback at (612) 367-6093 📱️:
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7758
8) Blind Abilities Episode 921: The Kevin Chao Experience: A Blindness Perspective Of Sight Tech Global 2022 — Tactile Graphics, Digital Tactile Display, Autonomy, Ara From Strap, Pixar Audio Description And More
December 19th 2022 | Held the 3rd Annual Sight Tech Global 2022, virtual and in-person event. Kevin Chao attended virtually for the first 2 days and being just 20 minutes away, Kevin attended the first in-person event put on by the Vista Center and documented his experience. It was a pleasure to have Kevin back in the Blind Abilities Studio to tell us all about the Sight Tech Global 2022. From his hands-on demonstrations to his conversations with attendees, you will learn what caught Kevin's attention and how meeting the technology pioneers rounded out his virtual and in-person conference experience:
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7760
9) Unmute Presents | MP3
December 20th 2022 | This is a replay of the Unmute Presents call hosted live on Tuesday, December 20, 2022. In this call we answer listener questions and learn more about about tools and tips you can use to export contacts and so much more. Tune in to this replay, and remember to join us live every Tuesday. Visit: https://acb.org/acb-community-events to get the call in information:
https://pinecast.com/listen/74aae45f-dc84-4f85-871a-71bef4075b8d.mp3
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Webinar, Training Course or Event for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-event or locate "Webinar / Training Course Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Ask The Advocate | APH ConnectCenter
December 28th 2022 | 5:30PM PT, 6:30PM MT, 7:30PM CT, 8:30PM ET, 1:30AM GMT on 12/29 | Answering questions families have to better understand the processes, procedures and parent rights in a 504/IEP. When parents are better informed they will be better equipped to navigate and negotiate successful student outcomes:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_rSJUAYVjTfCA34Ibi8gyuQ
2) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 4: Braille Around the World | APH
January 4th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Let's celebrate Louis Braille's Day and explore different braille codes around the world:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
3) Braille Technology Throughout the Ages: A Special Event for World Braille Day | The Braillists Foundation
January 4th 2023 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | In addition to our collaboration with Sight and Sound Technology, we are pleased to present an evening panel discussion for World Braille Day focussing on braille technology: its past, present and future. We will be joined by historians, people working in the braille technology industry today and developers of the next generation of braille hardware and software. The event will take place on Wednesday 4 January at 7:00 PM, and you will need to register in advance. This is a separate registration link to both our regular Masterclasses and the event with Sight and Sound. Please email help@braillists.org 📧️ if you have difficulties completing the form:
https://www.braillists.org/uncategorised/braille-technology-throughout-the-ages-a-special-event-for-world-braille-day/
4) 2023 Consumer Electronics Show (CES)
January 5th 2023 through January 8th 2023 | CES ® is the most influential tech event in the world — the proving ground for breakthrough technologies and global innovators. This is where the world's biggest brands do business and meet new partners, and the sharpest innovators hit the stage. Owned and produced by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) ®, CES features every aspect of the tech sector. Register now:
https://www.ces.tech/
5) Maryland Technology Assistance Program | Technology User Group | Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled (LBPD)
January 7th 2023 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | MD-TAP can help Marylanders acquire, use and own valuable assistive technology products. Learn how you can benefit from their programs. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10:00 AM ET. For more information about the Technology User Group or to recommend a topic / technology for discussion, please contact: Jerry Price at (410) 230-2446 📱️or via email jerry.price1@maryland.gov 📧️
6) Special Needs Trusts: Planning For Your Future
January 18th 2023 | 3:30PM PT, 4:30PM MT, 5:30PM CT, 6:30PM ET, 11:30PM GMT | Join the Carroll Center for the Blind's Exclusive Trust Partner, PLAN of MA & RI, for an informational webinar to learn about Special Needs Trusts and how they can help you and your loved ones plan for your future. A Special Needs Trust allows money to be set aside for a person with a disability. The trust is intended to help preserve funds for the sole benefit of this person, enhance their quality of life, and protect their eligibility for public benefits such as Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income. Speaker: Kathy Vitello, LSW, Director of Operations at PLAN of MA and RI. About the Speaker: Kathy Vitello is a Licensed Social Worker with more than 35 years of experience working with seniors, people who are physically challenged, and chronically ill. She has broad experience and insight — drawn from her work in hospitals, in skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and psychiatric facilities, and in-home care and hospice settings. Kathy holds a degree in Mental Health from Northern Essex Community College; has a BA in Applied Mental Health from University of Massachusetts, Amherst; and earned certificates in Suicide Prevention in Older Adults and Mental Health and Aging from the Institute for Geriatric Social Work at Boston University. Kathy has also participated in a week-long training in Thanatology and is a member of the NPA Conference Planning Committee.
What You'll Learn: Information about the different types of Special Needs Trusts. Why a Special Needs Trust is beneficial to you. How to protect your assets without affecting your Social Security Disability Benefits. Unique features of PLAN as a Professional Trustee. Who Should Attend: Individuals who qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits. Parents, family members, and other caregivers of a person with a disability. Professionals. Individuals who think they could benefit from a Special Needs Trust:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_S1lhF8UVQP6IygWFlBfFZQ?bblinkid=265480395&bbemailid=44518399&bbejrid=-1739148575
7) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 5: School Aged Numeracy | APH
February 1st 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Using LEGO Braille Bricks to do math: let's discover some of the many uses of these little bricks to develop numerical and geometry skills, understand symmetry, and much more:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
8) Maryland Accessible Telecommunications | Technology User Group | Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled (LBPD)
February 11th 2023 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | Formerly Maryland Relay, this state resource can help clients acquire cell phones, TTY equipment, and other communication devices. The application process is easy and highly encouraged. Learn about all of the programs offered and how you can benefit. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10:00 AM ET. For more information about the Technology User Group or to recommend a topic / technology for discussion, please contact: Jerry Price at (410) 230-2446 📱️ or via email jerry.price1@maryland.gov 📧️
9) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 6: Daily Living Activities | APH
March 6th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Let's explore daily-living activities using LEGO Braille Bricks and share our best practices, experiences, tips:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
10) Using Garage Band App to Create a Song | Technology User Group | Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled (LBPD)
March 11th 2023 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | You have seen this app on your iDevice, and maybe you have even opened it once or twice. In this presentation, you will learn how to create a song from scratch and how to make modifications. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10:00 AM ET. For more information about the Technology User Group or to recommend a topic / technology for discussion, please contact: Jerry Price at (410) 230-2446 📱️ or via email jerry.price1@maryland.gov 📧️
11) 2023 38th Annual CSUN Assistive Technology Conference
March 13th 2023 through March 17th 2023 | Welcome. Whether you have been attending the conference for years or are planning to attend your first, the CSUN Assistive Technology Conference, also known as the CSUN Conference, is the ultimate community experience and the premier forum on technology for all persons with disabilities. For over 37 years, California State University, Northridge's Center on Disabilities has sponsored the conference, providing a platform for researchers, practitioners, educators, exhibitors and more from around the world, where they can share knowledge, innovations, and best practices to promote inclusion for all. Building on the momentum from the 2022 conference, exciting new plans are in the works to enhance the conference experience. We encourage you to join us in Anaheim, California in 2023, where attendees can attend Pre-Conference Workshops, the yearly Keynote Address, Featured Presentations, General Sessions, Sponsor Showcase Suites and the Exhibit Hall. We also continue developing new programming to build community and networking opportunities. Check back often or follow us on social media for the latest updates, details, and deadlines. For information on sponsor or exhibitor opportunities, please visit our Opportunities page or email us at conference@csun.edu 📧️. We can't wait until the CSUN Conference community is back together to learn, share and connect:
https://www.csun.edu/cod/conference/sessions/
12) 2023 3rd Annual Axe-Con | Building Accessible Experiences | The World's Largest Digital Accessibility Conference
March 15th 2023 and March 16th 2023 | Deque Systems, the trusted leader in digital accessibility, has announced the third annual axe-con conference will return on March 15-16th, 2023. With the success of axe-con over the past two years, Deque will continue to host the conference as a free virtual event again next year. 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:
https://www.deque.com/blog/save-the-date-for-axe-con-2023/
13) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 7: Music | APH
April 5th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Let's discover together how to make music with these famous bricks! Come and share your creative ideas:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
14) How To Upgrade To Windows 11 | Technology User Group | Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled (LBPD)
April 8th 2023 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | This operating system has been around for a while, and people champion its security strengths and applications. Should you upgrade, and what is that process? All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10:00 AM ET. For more information about the Technology User Group or to recommend a topic / technology for discussion, please contact: Jerry Price at (410) 230-2446 📱️ or via email jerry.price1@maryland.gov 📧️
15) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 8: STEM | APH
May 3rd 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Have you ever thought of doing science, computing, or technology with LEGO Braille Bricks? Expert guests will join us for an amazing session:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
16) Travel Tools and Apps | Technology User Group | Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled (LBPD)
May 13th 2023 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | Whether you are traveling to another city, state or country, we will look at tools and resources that will help you get the most assistance for your venture. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10:00 AM ET. For more information about the Technology User Group or to recommend a topic / technology for discussion, please contact: Jerry Price at (410) 230-2446 📱️ or via email jerry.price1@maryland.gov 📧️
17) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 9: Orientation & Mobility | APH
June 7th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | LEGO bricks to build plans, visualize routes, it's not new! But with LEGO Braille Bricks you can also create labels, add letters, words... Then it becomes really great:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
➜ Directories
1) Access Information Email Newsletter Directory
https://www.accessinformationnews.com/email-newsletter-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
4) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
5) 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
✍ List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. Fill out this short form to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-buy-sell-trade or learn more on the Top Tech Tidbits website.
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: Carroll Center for the Blind
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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 Next Generation in Accessibility
Need to quickly access a distant computer with minimal fuss? Need to quickly convert image documents into readable text? Today's students and working professionals demand more of their technology. Employers expect more of their workforce. Pneuma Solutions is bridging the gap using the best in machine learning to connect you to your environment when you need it, how you need it. Give us a try, and experience accessibility on a whole new level:
https://pneumasolutions.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
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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Combine Learning And Gaming For A Fun Braille Adventure With Polly!
APH and Thinkerbell Labs are excited to introduce Polly, complete with customizable UEB lessons, songs, games, and stories! Join our waiting list to know when Polly is available:
https://www.aph.org/polly-wait-list/
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
➜ End Of Year Sale On Our Most Popular Products — All Prices Include Shipping
60 inch titanium locking telescopic cane: $75; non-contact infrared talking thermometer, tested and accurate: $50; Talking Oximeter: $40; RFID Leather Waistpack with gun or cane holster, rugged for outdoor use, can carry up to a 14 inch item easily: $45; 3 choices of BlindShell neck and cross-body pouches or cases that support outside camera use: $30 to $45. For more information or to order call either Barry (617) 969-7500 📱️ or Kae (781) 286-1696 📱️ or email barry.scheur@gmail.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, affordable, 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
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: That Real Blind Tech Show
➜ That Real Blind Tech Show Episode 96: We Got More Resolutions, ACB Style!
It's a fully packed That Real Blind Tech show lair. Join us as we recap this year's ACB Resolutions. We chime in with all of our opinions about this year's resolutions, and as usual some hilarity ensues. You will not want to miss both AirPods issues that take place on this episode. We are adding do not listen to That Real Blind Tech show on the bus as we are not responsible for the stares you will receive when laughing or cackling like a lunatic!
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-96-we-got-more-resolutions-acb-style
Sponsor Since: August 11th 2022
Website: https://blindtechshow.com/ 🌐
Email: ThatRealBlindTechShow@gmail.com 📧️
Social: Facebook Page | Facebook Group | Twitter
Listen: Apple Podcasts | Audible | Google Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube
Hosts: Brian Fischler | Ed Plumacher | Allison Meloy | Jenine Stanley
Goals: We want to educate you on the latest tech for the blindness community. You'll learn what is worth keeping and what you need to return. Our goals are: To inform, inspire and educate our audience. Feature guests and products that bring you value. Continuously improve and deliver the best content.
About: A podcast discussing the good & bad of assistive technology for the low vision & totally blind. No longer focused on just Apple VoiceOver technology. That Real Blind Tech show covers all the fantastic talking tech and gadgets out there for the low vision and blindness community. Common topics include Apple's VoiceOver, JAWS, Microsoft Narrator, NVDA, Amazon Alexa and VoiceView, Google Assistant and Android. Basically, if a device can talk to you, we are going to be talking about it. That Real Blind Tech Show will not only educate you, but it will also make you laugh. Listeners are encouraged to not use treadmills or drink hot coffee while listening to our show, or accidents can and have occurred. Dishes have been broken while listening to That Real Blind Tech Show, and while we are responsible for the laughs, we are in no way responsible for the injuries or bills that pile up. Remember to keep it Real and also don't believe anything you hear on That Real Blind Tech Show.
Home | Episodes | Blog | Contact | Subscribe
Sponsor: Aira
➜ Webinar: Discovering Aira and Content Creation | October 25th 2022 at 2:00 PM ET
Creating content for the ever-expanding media world is a growing profession. During #NDEAM2022 we want to spotlight how blind and low vision people are working in this space. Whether for income or personal brand, these creators integrate visual interpreting into their processes. We'll also get advice from Aira Agents on how to make the most of visual interpreting when creating your content. Join us Tuesday, October 25th 2022 at 2:00pm Eastern time. Register at:
https://aira.zoom.us/webinar/register/9116639399059/WN_g9O7k3RaR7mYYT1ODnm0cA
Sponsor Since: August 4th 2022
Website: https://aira.io/ 🌐
Download the App: Apple App Store | Google Play Store
Plans and Pricing: https://aira.io/pricing/
Phone: NA: +1.800.835.1934 📱️ | AU: +1.800.765.096 📱️ | UK: +0.800.046.5668 📱️ | NZ: +1.800.425.451 📱️
Text Message: NA: +1.858.242.4457 📲 | AU: +61.488.839.767 📲 | UK: +44.149.320.2474 📲
Email: support@aira.io 📧️
Social: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
About: Aira's mission is to remove barriers and make the world more accessible with visual interpreting.
We provide a live, human-to-human professional assistance service, an accommodation or productivity tool, that enhances independence by delivering on-demand, skilled and reliable visual interpreting for just about any task. Using the powerful combination of a camera and the Aira app on someone's device of 'choice', a professionally-trained agent will assist by visually interpreting what is in the camera's view or on screen, from describing to reading, from explaining to navigating - just about anything, safely and securely. Aira supports a growing range of devices including smart and tactile button phones, desktop computers and soon, wearables.
Whether you are involved in the work of business, the work of school or the work of life, Aira enhances everyday efficiency, engagement, and independence. Used by employees and customers of hundreds of organizations including airports, banks, the largest software companies, financial firms, retailers and universities, we invite you to join the community, access the Aira app today and try it for free.
https://aira.io/download-and-try-it/
Step One: Subscribe and Download. Pick the plan that lets you explore on your terms and on your time, sign up in a few minutes, and download the Aira app to your smartphone. Plans shown are for the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Add or cancel at any time.
Step Two: Connect with an Aira Agent. On the first call, connect with one of our certified, specially-trained Agents and learn how everything works.
Step Three: Real-time Assistance. At the touch of a button, Aira delivers instant access to visual information, when and where you want it.
Sponsor: Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
➜ Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore: Touch Tomorrow in Today's Products
Serving blind people since 1999, we're a family-owned, forward-thinking company offering both tried-and-true and exciting new products for blind and low vision consumers. We design and carry self-voicing educational software, Braille supplies, talking gadgets, adapted household items, tactile card and board games, audible toys and gift ideas. Passionate about innovation, we've also created dozens of products from scratch when a suitable solution did not exist. Shop online at http://www.braillebookstore.com/ and enjoy fast, free shipping.
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: http://www.braillebookstore.com/ 🌐
Phone (Toll Free): (800) 987-1231 📱️
Fax (Toll Free): (800) 985-1231 ░
Email: Sales@BrailleBookstore.com 📧️
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time.
About: Welcome to Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore. We have been supplying products to blind people and their families since 1999. We offer thousands of Braille books, toys, games, kitchen aids, and talking products. We have unbeatable prices, fast, free shipping, and great customer service! We have tons of Braille books and cool products to choose from; so grab a cup of coffee, relax, and we'll give you a quick tour:
Products:
➜ Timekeeping
➜ Housewares
➜ On The Go
➜ Low Vision Products
➜ Toys and Games
➜ Gift Shop
➜ Braille Workshop
➜ Braille Bookstore
➜ Greeting Cards
➜ Copy Center
➜ Computer Lab
➜ Popular Products
➜ New Products
If you need some fresh ideas or have questions, you can also check out our Shopping Guides.
Sponsor: Fable
➜ Tired Of Paying For Inaccessible Learning Apps?
We get it. Focus on the content that matters to you and spend less time trying to navigate online learning with your assistive technology. Verified by a community of accessibility testers, Fable Pathways offers free, assistive-technology-friendly online learning, compatible with devices like screen readers, screen magnifiers, voice navigation, and switch controls. Sign up today for your free, accessible, membership at:
https://www.fablepathways.com
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: https://fablepathways.com/ 🌐
Email: community@makeitfable.com 📧️
Phone: (888) 212-3532 📱️ Extension 810
About: Just like curb cuts help everyone get on and off sidewalks, designing digital products with accessibility in mind helps make the internet more accessible for everyone. Fable is an accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities. Fable connects people with disabilities to accessibility managers, user researchers, designers, and developers to build incredible and accessible user experiences.
Opportunities:
➜ Fable Pathways: Fable Pathways is a free skill development program for people with disabilities interested in working in the tech sector. Sign up to take your career to the next level. Courses include "Getting started in web development" taught by Kelly Ford, a screen reader user, and Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, and "Becoming a manager" taught by Fable's Head of Accessibility Innovation, Kate Kalcevich. Instructors are subject matter experts in their fields and have lived experience with disability. Pathways courses are free, self-paced and assistive-technology-friendly. Sign up now at https://fablepathways.com/.
➜ Fable's Community of Accessibility Testers: Work from home to contribute to real changes in digital accessibility and make the internet a more accessible place for everyone. Ever leave a website because it was too hard to navigate? Because it was missing button labels? Because it didn't respond to voice commands? Us too. Our community of testers who use assistive technologies work from home and contribute to real changes in digital accessibility with recognizable brands. Earn money to share your feedback on websites and apps of your favorite brands and work with companies that care. No experience required and no resume required. Fable is looking for assistive technology users in the USA and Canada to work the hours that they want, from the comfort of their own homes. Learn more at https://fablepathways.com/community/.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ Dolphin Friends Program
If you work for a non-profit, charity or society that provides services to people with visual impairments, we invite you to take part in our Dolphin Friends Program. Dolphin will outfit your center with assistive technology solutions that can benefit your clients who need to remain independent, are trying to sharpen their technology skills for employment and more. Learn more about becoming a Dolphin Friend:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/join-dolphin-friends
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Sponsor: Clusiv
➜ Looking For Blind Job-Seekers Wanting To Advance Their Salaries, Careers And Digital Accessibility For The Blind
Are you interested in learning new tech skills and working remotely while earning a competitive salary? At Clusiv.io we have created the world's first digitally accessible e-Learning platform built by the blind, and built for the blind. Visit the link provided and request Clusiv through your Vocational Rehab counselor for lifetime access to our e-Learning platform with courses such as Business Applications, JAWS, and more:
https://clusiv.io/
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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 from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Control the climate of your home independently! The VIP 3000 is a universal heating — cooling talking thermostat This accessible digital thermostat is specifically designed to offer audio playback of indoor temperature, temperature settings and programming instructions so blind and visually impaired users can independently & precisely manage their indoor comfort. Don't over pay. Read more at:
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 every day 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.
Your Name Here
0 of 18 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are currently 0 of 18 packages available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, December 15, 2022 - Volume 889
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.
Subscribers: 7,152 Opt-In Subscribers were sent this issue via email. 157 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: No Sponsorship Packages Currently Available. Please Consider Joining Our Waiting List Today! This Issue Made Possible By 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., Double Tap TV, Clusiv, Dolphin Computer Access, Fable, Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore, Aira and That Real Blind Tech Show.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Tidbit for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Checking Out The New C.Crane CC Skywave SSB 2 Radio | Jock Elliott | KB2GOM (5.3% of all clicks.)
Folks who are regular readers of my posts here have already figured out that I am a big fan of the C.Crane Skywave SSB. It is easily the most versatile radio I own, receiving AM (medium wave), FM, shortwave, HF single sideband, NOAA weather stations with alert, and scannable civilian VHF frequencies, and I have written enthusiastically about it here on multiple occasions. I think of the Skywave SSB as my "anti-boredom machine." It's small enough to slide into a shirt or jacket pocket or tuck into any pack. Get stuck waiting in line, whip out the Skywave SSB, plug in a pair of ear buds, and listen to whatever is available:
https://swling.com/blog/2022/11/checking-out-the-new-c-crane-cc-skywave-ssb-2/
B.) Your iPhone Has 26 New Accessibility Tools You Shouldn't Ignore (4.6% of all clicks.)
This is a handy rundown of the latest accessibility features on iOS devices:
https://ios.gadgethacks.com/how-to/your-iphone-has-26-new-accessibility-tools-you-shouldnt-ignore-0385071/
C.) Microsoft Neural Voices on Speech Central (4.4% of all clicks.)
Speech Central has added support for Microsoft Neural Voices in the latest version. Those are the high quality voices provided online through Microsoft's servers:
https://www.applevis.com/forum/ios-ipados/microsoft-neural-voices-speech-central
D.) Version 1.1 Of StellarTrek: A Major Update Of Our Orientation And Mobility Digital Assistant | HumanWare (4.0% of all clicks.)
The StellarTrek has been out for a few months now. Still hesitating to buy one? These updates might change your mind:
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/3079
E.) The 7 Best AI Voice Generators (3.8% of all clicks.)
AI voice-generation technology is more sophisticated than it's ever been. Give these voice generators a try and see for yourself:
https://www.makeuseof.com/best-ai-voice-generators/
2) Sponsorship Package Updates
Availability: There are no Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Packages currently available. Waiting List: If you would like to support Top Tech Tidbits by becoming a Sponsor in the future please add your name to our waiting list today. We will add your name to the list, let you know what position you currently hold within it, and then notify you the moment a package becomes available. Waiting List Position: There are currently four future Sponsors on the waiting list. List Addition: Just send an email to our Publisher at:
publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️
3) Premium Subscriber Updates
Next Issue: Premium Subscribers will receive their 3rd Volume of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits for October, November and December 2022 on Monday, January 2nd 2023. Back Issues: There are currently 2 back issues available. Premium Subscribers are entitled to all back issues, anytime they sign up. All available back issues will be sent to you via email within 24 hours of purchasing your subscription. Join Us: If you would like to receive a perfectly formatted and searchable Word Document with each of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits of the last 3 months listed neatly within it, please consider joining us today for just $1 a month:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/premium-subscribers.html
4) Access Information News Launches First-Of-Its-Kind Email Newsletter Directory Dedicated To Access Information
Publisher (Di Blasi): Do you regularly send out access information via an email newsletter? I am very excited to announce that on Monday, December 12th 2022, Access Information News launched a first-of-its-kind Email Newsletter Directory dedicated to access information. This new Directory was created at the request of both readers and access information email newsletter providers who were looking for more optimal ways to locate each other. Learn all about the new Directory here:
https://www.accessinformationnews.com/3.html
5) Apple Releases iOS 16.2 and iPadOS 16.2; Bringing Bug Fixes for VoiceOver and Braille Users | AppleVis
Apple has released iOS 16.2 and iPadOS 16.2 to the public. Our experience is that the following accessibility bugs have been resolved or significantly addressed in iOS 16.2 and iPadOS 16.2:
https://www.applevis.com/blog/apple-releases-ios-162-ipados-162-bringing-bug-fixes-voiceover-braille-users
6) Apple Releases MacOS Ventura 13.1, WatchOS 9.2, TvOS 16.2, and HomePod Software Version 16.2 | AppleVis
Apple has released macOS Ventura 13.1, watchOS 9.2, tvOS 16.2, and HomePod software version 16.2 to the public. The macOS Ventura 13.1 release notes say that it “introduces Freeform, a new app that offers a great place to brainstorm and bring your ideas to life. This release also includes Advanced Data Protection for iCloud and other features and bug fixes for your Mac:"
https://www.applevis.com/blog/apple-releases-macos-ventura-131-watchos-92-tvos-162-homepod-software-version-162
7) Report: Apple Plans To Support Side Loading And Third-Party App Stores By 2024
This may mean 3rd party screen readers and other assistive technologies may become available on iOS devices in the future:
https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2022/12/report-apple-engineers-are-working-on-third-party-app-store-support-in-ios/
8) Exploring Everyday Possibilities in Markdown | A Review of iA Writer | Jisell Howe
It has been over a month since I purchased a license of iA Writer. Regrettably, I have not spent time exploring this fantastic tool as much as I should have as I was busy with personal projects: one of which involving a migration of my website from WordPress to Quarto/GitHub Pages. Before I get into a review of iA Writer, I want to provide more context that led to the decision in purchasing a license in the first place.
https://www.jisellhowe.com/posts/exploring-everyday-possibilities-in-markdown/
9) How to Use Google Alerts in Your Job Search
Using Google Alerts you can keep track of new job openings and keep up with the latest news. It's easy to set up, and free. Here's how to use it:
https://www.makeuseof.com/use-google-alerts-in-job-search/
10) ChatGPT's Most Charming Trick Is Also Its Biggest Flaw
The articulate new chatbot has won over the internet and shown how engaging conversational AI can be — even when it makes stuff up:
https://www.wired.com/story/openai-chatgpts-most-charming-trick-hides-its-biggest-flaw/?bxid=5bd66e062ddf9c6194383112&cndid=21712889
11) ChatGPT, Galactica, and the Progress Trap
When large language models fall short, the consequences can be serious. Why is it so hard to acknowledge that?
https://www.wired.com/story/large-language-models-critique/
12) ChatGPT's Fluent BS Is Compelling Because Everything Is Fluent BS
The AI chatbot was trained on text created by humans. Of course its writing is superficially impressive and lacking in substance:
https://www.wired.com/story/chatgpt-fluent-bs/
13) Making A Good Thing Better: The C.Crane CC Skywave SSB 2 Portable Shortwave Radio | The Swing Post
The CC Skywave SSB is my choice travel and EDC radio. I prefer it over any other portable I own (and I do have quite a lot) because it's so insanely useful, efficient, lightweight, compact, and durable:
https://swling.com/blog/2022/12/making-a-good-thing-better-the-c-crane-cc-skywave-ssb-2/
14) What's New in The EasyReader App — Version 10.03 Released December 13th 2022 | Dolphin
We are delighted to inform you that there has been an update to the EasyReader App to bring new features to EasyReader Premium subscribers. EasyReader Premium subscriptions are available for individuals and for educational organizations. As always, the EasyReader App remains free to download and use and continues to provide accessible ways to read for people with visual impairments, dyslexia and other print impairments:
https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/news?id=527
15) TWBlue Updates
TWBlue has been updated with Mastodon support, and some other fixes related to opening and running the program:
https://twblue.es/downloads/
16) Microsoft Is Rolling Out The Redesigned OneDrive App For Windows 11
Look-and-feel and notification management are among the enhancements:
https://www.neowin.net/news/microsoft-is-rolling-out-the-redesigned-onedrive-app-for-windows-11/
17) Use Live Captions In A Teams Meeting | Microsoft Support
Teams can detect what's said in a meeting and present real-time captions. And, if you've turned on the new meeting experience, your captions will include speaker attribution — so you'll see not only what's being said, but who's saying it:
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/use-live-captions-in-a-teams-meeting-4be2d304-f675-4b57-8347-cbd000a21260?WT.mc_id=eml_CXM_en-us_M365Comm_Usage_M365NewsletterEdition3_0_V00_EM_Pro_1134350_ENUS_FY23
18) Voiceover On The iPhone Was A Miracle For People Who Can't See, And It Keeps Getting Better
Back in 2009, Apple's Phil Schiller stood onstage and unveiled the iPhone 3GS with a brief and somewhat surprising aside: the buttonless, glass-fronted device would work even if you couldn't see it. Schiller was referring to Apple's not-yet-announced plan to bring VoiceOver, the assistive tool known as a "screen reader," to the iPhone, a move that over the next decade would become the industry standard for non-visual interaction with a smartphone:
https://techcrunch.com/2022/12/07/voiceover-on-the-iphone-was-a-miracle-for-people-who-cant-see-and-it-keeps-getting-better-learn-how-at-sight-tech-global/
19) iOS 16.2 Will Leave you Speechless — 7 More Changes | Nikhil Vemu
I can never stop singing its praises:https://medium.com/macoclock/ios-16-2-will-leave-you-speechless-7-more-changes-a973ecc418a8
20) "Spring for Twitter" Creator Announces New iOS App "Mona For Mastodon"
I'm excited to announce my new app: Mona for Mastodon, a Mastodon client for iPhone, iPad and Mac, powered by the same amazing features of “Spring for Twitter.” A preview version of Mona will be available to Spring customers soon. You can follow me on Twitter at:
https://twitter.com/theSpringApp
21) Electronic Second Skins Are the Wearables of the Future
Flexible e-skins could be used to measure wearers' blood pressure, temperature, and oxygen levels in real time, assisting with diagnoses and health care:
https://www.wired.com/story/electronic-second-skins/
22) Here Are My Favorite Windows 11 Keyboard Shortcuts | Kevin Okemwa
Keyboard shortcuts are an invaluable tool that can help you save time and effort when using your computer. However, there are many different keyboard shortcuts available, and it can be hard to keep track of them all, especially after Microsoft began rolling out the Windows 11 2022 Update. In this article, we'll go over some of the top keyboard shortcuts for Windows 11 and how you can use them to improve your productivity:
https://www.onmsft.com/feature/keyboard-shortcuts-windows-11
23) Video: New Android Mode Helps People Who Are Blind Or Low Vision Customize Display Options
As part of a raft of new Android features, Google has released Reading mode on Android devices to assist people who have vision impairments or are dyslexic. The new mode enables people who are blind, dyslexic, or have vision impairments personalize their display options. Android users can now customize options like contrast, font type, and size, as well as activate a text-to-speech function to help with speed control:
https://attoday.co.uk/video-new-android-mode-helps-people-who-are-blind-or-low-vision-customise-display-options/
24) Microsoft to Discontinue Its Soundscape App and Make the Code Available as Open-Source Software
Microsoft has announced that as of January 3, 2023, its Soundscape app will not be available for download and that existing installations will cease to work after the end of June 2023:
https://www.applevis.com/blog/microsoft-discontinue-its-soundscape-app-make-code-available-open-source-software
25) Microsoft Soundscape — New Horizons with a Community-Driven Approach
For more than six years, Microsoft Research has been honored to develop the Soundscape research project, which was designed to deliver information about a person's location and points of interest and has guided individuals to desired places and in unfamiliar spaces using augmented-reality and three-dimensional audio. While not a traditional turn-by-turn navigation mobile app, the Soundscape research project allowed us to explore ways that audio can enhance mobility and expand navigation experiences without the need to follow directions on a small display. Beginning January 3, 2023, the Soundscape code will be available as open-source software, so that anyone can continue to build on, and find new ways to leverage, this novel feature set for the growing navigation opportunities in today's world. As Microsoft Research continues to expand into new accessibility innovation areas, we hope the open-source software release of the Soundscape code supports the community in further developing confidence and utility of spatial audio navigation experiences:
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/blog/microsoft-soundscape-new-horizons-with-a-community-driven-approach/
26) OneNote Gets "Speech To Text" Transcribe
The Transcribe option is coming to OneNote for Windows to let you get a "speech to text" written transcript of either a live recording or an already saved audio file. It's an extension of the existing Transcribe feature in Word on the web (in a browser) and works the same way. That's not entirely a good thing because Microsoft has done nothing to fix annoyances in the current Transcribe:
https://office-watch.com/2022/onenote-gets-speech-to-text-transcribe/
27) How to Search All Streaming Services At Once: 9 Options
We've all had those moments when we wanted to find which streaming service has a specific film or show. Whether you realized you hadn't seen a classic show after hearing your friends discuss it, or you want to see if your favorite movie is streaming, you can save time by searching multiple streaming services to find what you want to watch:
https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-search-all-streaming-services/
28) The AppleVis Community Names Envision AI and Evidence 111 Its Golden Apples of 2022
We are pleased to announce that the winners of the Eleventh Annual AppleVis Golden Apple Awards are Envision AI and Evidence 111:
https://www.applevis.com/blog/applevis-community-names-envision-ai-evidence-111-its-golden-apples-2022
29) For Users Of The Duxbury Braille Translator: Using Tags In Refreshable Braille To Control Print Output | Caryn Navy | Duxbury Systems, Inc.
Do you sometimes wish you could control just about every aspect of a printed document, from headings to footnotes, by writing on your refreshable braille display? If so, you might be interested in testing a new tool. My coworker David Holladay at Duxbury Systems has been working on a program to turn a system of HTML-like tags in refreshable braille files into styles and codes in a Duxbury DBT file to control the format and structure of printed documents. The aim is to start with a refreshable braille file and use this new tool and DBT to create a Word document controlled by the tags in your refreshable braille. If you use DBT, you can use the link below to check out this tool and consider testing it:
https://www.duxburysystems.org/samples/brlhtm.htm
30) NV Access In-Process For December 14th 2022
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-14th-december-2022/
31) Top 5 Free Websites To Download Sound Effects For Windows | Shaant Minhas
A varied sound effect system is essential to a fulfilling user experience for most of us. And that's precisely why Microsoft comes packed with various sound effects; they make casual use way richer than it would've been otherwise. However, if you're the curious tinkerer like most people reading this, we're confident you'd want to try out something new. In this article, we've rounded up some cool sites for you, so you don't have to scroll through endless search results and Reddit posts; you can safely try out new sounds from these hand-picked sources:
https://www.onmsft.com/feature/download-windows-sound-effects
32) Learn Braille With Taptilo 4.0
Taptilo is a smart braille device that makes it "fun and easy" to learn braille. Braille beginners can learn braille patterns with the interactive braille display and audio feedback. According to the device's website, "Learning braille with Taptilo significantly reduces the average learning period. The average learning period decreases a half, compared to the traditional method." Additionally, the learning dropout rate is decreased by 20%:
https://www.eastersealstech.com/2022/12/07/learn-braille-with-taptilo-4-0/
33) Android 13 For TV Now Available With Improvements To Accessibility
Android 13 is now available for Android TV, Google's Smart TV platform. This update brings with it a number of new features and improvements, including support for user controls for preferred resolution and refresh rate on supported HDMI source devices, and better ways to deliver high-quality experiences to users on different device types:
https://sdtimes.com/software-development/android-13-for-tv-now-available-with-improvements-to-accessibility/
34) Comcast's New Remote Control Was Designed For — And With — Disabled Users
Bigger, brighter, with a wristband and an audio instruction manual, the new large-button remote aims to improve TV watching for people with disabilities:
https://www.fastcompany.com/90814402/comcasts-new-remote-control-was-designed-with-and-for-disabled-users
35) Amazon's Echo Show Adds More Accessibility Features, Including 'Gestures' And Text-To-Speech
Amazon has announced a handful of new features for its digital assistant Alexa that aim to make the device more accessible. The company is launching two new ways to interact with Alexa without speaking, including support for Gestures on Echo Show devices that will allow users to interact with the device by raising their hand — something that can also come in handy for anyone using Echo while cooking who want to quickly dismiss a timer without having to speak. In addition, Amazon is rolling out text-to-speech options and a way to turn on all closed captioning features at once across devices:
https://techcrunch.com/2022/12/13/amazons-echo-show-adds-more-accessibility-features-including-gestures-and-text-to-speech/
36) 3 New Alexa Features To Try Out On Your Echo Show
Raise your hand to dismiss timers, type out phrases and have them spoken out loud, and enable three different types of "captions with one click," are among the accessibility improvements:
https://www.aboutamazon.com/news/devices/echo-show-new-alexa-features
37) Sight Tech Global 2022 Day Two - Main Stage | YouTube Playlist
These are the video sessions from the main stage of Sight Tech Global Day Two December 8, 2022:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzaPe49p32aaHK2KE_rElfPihWR8Uw7bs
38) Time to Run (or Walk): How to Get Moving With Apple Fitness+ Audio Workouts
Apple's Fitness+ subscription service offers guided running and walking programs. Here's how to get started with Audio Workouts from your Apple Watch or iPhone:
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/time-to-run-walk-get-moving-with-apple-fitness-plus-audio-workouts
39) Chromecast With Google TV's Added Audio Cues For Navigation And Casting Are An Accessibility Win | Michael Perrigo
I'm not really sure when this became a thing, but what I do know is that it didn't exist the last time I browsed Google TV in my living room. Upon turning the TV on this week, I noticed that new audio cues accompanied my button presses as I navigated the UI to look for shows and movies:
https://chromeunboxed.com/chromecast-google-tv-audio-cues
40) PSA: Windows 8.1's End-Of-Support Date Is Only 30 Days Away
If your computers are still running Windows 8.1 this is a friendly reminder that the operating system (OS) officially has only 30 days to live before it reaches its end-of-support date:
https://www.neowin.net/news/psa-windows-81s-end-of-support-date-is-only-30-days-away/
41) Office 2021 vs Microsoft 365: Which Should You Buy?
Can't decide between Microsoft 365 or Office 2021? This guide will help you pick the best option for you:
https://www.windowscentral.com/office-2019-or-office-365-which-one-you-should-get
42) Internet Radio App Broadcasts Has a Fresh New Look, Improved Search, Shazam Integration, and More
Version 3 of Broadcasts, Steve Troughton-Smith's Internet radio app and a Club MacStories Recommends pick, is out with an updated design, improved search, Shazam integration, and a URL scheme that makes sharing stations simple. Together, the changes look fantastic and make enjoying Internet radio with the app easier and better than ever:
https://www.macstories.net/reviews/internet-radio-app-broadcasts-has-a-fresh-new-look-improved-search-shazam-integration-and-more/
43) The Great 78 Project: A Community Project For The Preservation, Research And Discovery Of 78rpm Records
The Great 78 Project is a community project for the preservation, research and discovery of 78rpm records. From about 1898 to the 1950s, an estimated 3 million sides (~3 minute recordings) have been made on 78rpm discs. While the commercially viable recordings will have been restored or remastered onto LP's or CD, there is still research value in the artifacts and usage evidence in the often rare 78rpm discs and recordings. Already, over 20 collections have been selected by the Internet Archive for physical and digital preservation and access. Started by many volunteer collectors, these new collections have been selected, digitized and preserved by the Internet Archive, George Blood LP, and the Archive of Contemporary Music:
https://great78.archive.org/
44) Seeking Persons Who Viewed The Three Most Recent Live Events On NBC — The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Special, And The People's Choice Awards | Kim Charlson | Perkins School for the Blind
We are looking for people who viewed the three most recent live events on NBC — The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Special, and the People's Choice Awards. If you tuned into any or all of these three programs, and would be willing to provide some feedback or participate in a focus group, please email me directly and let me know your name, email address, cell phone, and which programs you had the opportunity to watch. Thanks so much for your willingness to assist with this request:
kim.charlson@perkins.org 📧️
45) TPGi Newsletter | The Insider News on Accessibility — Straight From The Experts
Updates include: Include Accessibility Testing Through Continuous Integration | Spotlight On: Accessible Escape Room | Spotlight On: ARC User Flows | Using the "Text" Role:
https://email.tpgi.com/december-accessibility-newsletter-from-tpgi
➜ Surveys
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related survey for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-survey or locate "Survey Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Surveys | APH
Closes: Ongoing Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Podcast Episode for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-podcast-episode or locate "Podcast Episode Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Managing Social Gatherings with Vision Loss | Hadley Presents: A Conversation with the Experts
December 8th 2022 | Join us as we chat with author Hannah Fairbairn about the tips and tricks she has learned to take some of the stress out of holiday get-togethers, no matter your vision:
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/managing-social-gatherings-vision-loss
2) Mosen at Large Episode 210: Your Very Last Chance To Vote For Your Top 10 Holiday Songs, BlindShell USA, And Those Annoying Realtek Windows Drivers Again
3) Blind Android Users Episode 105: Android 13QPR1 Exits Beta, CSR, And More
December 10th 2022 | We now have a Facebook group which is at: https://bit.ly/3FOtzQm. This week, we look at Android 13 QPR1 feature drop for Pixel phones and explain what has been added in this quarterly platform release. In our CSR section, we show shortcut keys, schedule tasks and loading functions. In our app of the week section, we show you how to disable app tracking in DuckDuckGo browser:
https://blindandroidusers.com/
4) Blind Abilities Episode 917: Tech Abilities The December Grind: Aira Announces New Plans, Air Pods And Ear Wax, Audible Goes Alexa, Perkins Career Launch Suites And Workspace, And More Tech Tidbits
December 10th 2022 | Serina is back with Callie and Jeff in the Blind Abilities Studio bringing you this lushes Tech Abilities show. Seyoon is hard at the December Grind of College so we let him be and flipped on the microphones and hit the "On the Air" light outside the studio door. Here are just some of the planned items and topics however, in between the Tidbits are little nuggets of priceless wisdom and jewels placed within just for your discovery. Hope you enjoy! Belkin launches AirPods Cleaning Kit, claims to remove earwax plus restore acoustic performance. Microsoft Really Is Selling a Cozy Hoodie for Your Shivering Xbox Controller. Google Docs and Sheets on iPad. Aira: Laying the Groundwork for a Strong 2023. Ring App Accessibility Broken. Apple Music Launches New Replay Experience. Audible on iOS gets hands-free listening and more thanks to Alexa voice commands. Taylor Swift tickets. Audio description. Serina's Holiday songs from Bob:
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7750
5) Blind Abilities Episode 918: The All-Terrain Cane (ATC) From AwareWolf Gear: Meet Founder, Creator, Entrepreneur And Outdoorsman, Dave Epstein
December 11th 2022 | Our guest today is Dave Epstein, founder of AwareWolf Gear, the home of the All-Terrain Cane. Dave shares the origin of the ATC including all of the steps he took to create the cane, from borrowing tools and pieces from the local hiking store, to adding parts from other traditional canes, through developing three completed prototypes, finally landing on the final version of the All-Terrain Cane that we see Dave present to us today. This cane is currently being manufactured and is ready to be ordered from Dave's website at https://awarewolfgear.com/. Listen here:
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7752
6) Unmute Presents — Education Series — Taking Pictures
December 13th 2022 | In this first ever Unmute Presents education series Michael Doise joins the unmute presents team to share about taking pictures with a visual impairment. We answered your questions, and will be bringing Michael back the last week of the year. We review information about the camera lenses on iPhones, some tips and tricks for taking photos, and ideas that you can use to improve your picture taking abilities. Pacific time, 1 PM Eastern, dedicated to solving your technology problems. Please join us on these weekly:
https://pnc.st/s/unmute-presents-on-acb-communi/82b61bab/unmute-presents-education-series-taking-pictures-on-december-13-2022
7) Eyes on Success Episode 2250: Flight for Sight
December 14th 2022 | Blind people are capable of doing almost anything they want these days. But would you expect a blind person to be piloting a plane? Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Kaiya Armstrong, a blind college student, who learned to fly a plane and then flew herself cross country thanks to a program sponsored by the Foundation for Blind Children:
http://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show_notes_2250.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Webinar, Training Course or Event for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-event or locate "Webinar / Training Course Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Career Conversations with Joe Strechay | APH ConnectCenter
December 15th 2022 | 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 12AM on 12/16 GMT | Join us and meet Joe Strechay, a blind Film and Television Producer. No stranger to CareerConnect, Joe is back with us sharing his breakthrough into Television and film. Listen in and hear how as a blind professional, Joe works directly on set with actors and actresses who themselves are blind. From television and film sets both domestic and international, we will spend the hour engaging on this fascinating career:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_m0H5e0hpTeOLEeCIl-SH3g
2) Clear the Clutter: Personalize Your Web Experience with JAWS | Freedom Scientific
December 15th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Are you looking for ways to quickly locate information on web pages? Want to learn about JAWS features that will help you navigate more efficiently? Join us for a live webinar, "Clear the Clutter: Personalize Your Web Experience with JAWS." Objectives: We'll discuss different types of web content and show you how to: Use Flexible Web to quickly find or hide content. Hide/ignore inline frames. Use the Skim Reading tool to review page content. Navigate tables, forms, and web-based applications with Smart Navigation. Freedom Scientific Presenters: Elizabeth Whitaker, Cathy Johnson, and Rachel Buchanan. ACVREP Credits: ACVREP credits will be available for those who attend the live webinar. Help Us Spread the Word: Please feel free to share this with someone you think might benefit from attending. Register:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_S6hSiWGeRc-KLWIHjPK-rg
3) ZoomText, JAWS & Fusion: Latest Features (Assistive Technology Webinar) | Access Ingenuity
December 21st 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | It's that time again. Not only is it the holidays but also the time when there are important updates for ZoomText, JAWS, and Fusion. Join Ian Ramos and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity to explore what's new in the 2023 updates and some features within the past few years. Learning Outcomes: Briefly explain the differences between ZoomText, JAWS, and Fusion. Compare the different licenses and how you can find out if you are eligible for the latest updates. Explore new 2023 features such as Tethered View, Smart Glance, Notification History improvements, New Tables Only option for Smart Navigation, etc. Review recent features, including Docking the Quick Access Bar, Voice Assistant, Sound Splitter, New Vocalizer Expressive Voices and Languages, and more. Meeting ID: 827 9977 1867 | Passcode: 853407 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,82799771867#,,,,*853407# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82799771867?pwd=VVNHeWhjVVVLc1JDUUtSMlllMnlQZz09#success
4) Ask The Advocate | APH ConnectCenter
December 28th 2022 | 5:30PM PT, 6:30PM MT, 7:30PM CT, 8:30PM ET, 1:30AM GMT on 12/29 | Answering questions families have to better understand the processes, procedures and parent rights in a 504/IEP. When parents are better informed they will be better equipped to navigate and negotiate successful student outcomes:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_rSJUAYVjTfCA34Ibi8gyuQ
5) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 4: Braille Around the World | APH
January 4th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Let's celebrate Louis Braille's Day and explore different braille codes around the world:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
6) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 5: School Aged Numeracy | APH
February 1st 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Using LEGO Braille Bricks to do math: let's discover some of the many uses of these little bricks to develop numerical and geometry skills, understand symmetry, and much more:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
7) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 6: Daily Living Activities | APH
March 6th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Let's explore daily-living activities using LEGO Braille Bricks and share our best practices, experiences, tips:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
8) 2023 3rd Annual Axe-Con | Building Accessible Experiences | The World's Largest Digital Accessibility Conference
March 15th 2022 and March 16th 2023 | Deque Systems, the trusted leader in digital accessibility, has announced the third annual axe-con conference will return on March 15-16th, 2023. With the success of axe-con over the past two years, Deque will continue to host the conference as a free virtual event again next year. 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:
https://www.deque.com/blog/save-the-date-for-axe-con-2023/
9) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 7: Music | APH
April 5th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Let's discover together how to make music with these famous bricks! Come and share your creative ideas:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
10) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 8: STEM | APH
May 3rd 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Have you ever thought of doing science, computing, or technology with LEGO Braille Bricks? Expert guests will join us for an amazing session:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
11) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 9: Orientation & Mobility | APH
June 7th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | LEGO bricks to build plans, visualize routes, it's not new! But with LEGO Braille Bricks you can also create labels, add letters, words... Then it becomes really great:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
➜ Directories
1) Access Information Email Newsletter Directory
https://www.accessinformationnews.com/email-newsletter-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
4) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
5) 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
✍ List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. Fill out this short form to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-buy-sell-trade or learn more on the Top Tech Tidbits website.
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 Next Generation in Accessibility
Need to quickly access a distant computer with minimal fuss? Need to quickly convert image documents into readable text? Today's students and working professionals demand more of their technology. Employers expect more of their workforce. Pneuma Solutions is bridging the gap using the best in machine learning to connect you to your environment when you need it, how you need it. Give us a try, and experience accessibility on a whole new level:
https://pneumasolutions.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
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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Combine Learning And Gaming For A Fun Braille Adventure With Polly!
APH and Thinkerbell Labs are excited to introduce Polly, complete with customizable UEB lessons, songs, games, and stories! Join our waiting list to know when Polly is available:
https://www.aph.org/polly-wait-list/
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
➜ We're Insane To Do This, But It's The Holidays!
We are offering to the first 5 customers for this deal a combination of safety and security; our 60 inch locking telescopic titanium cane and a leather RFID waist pack with built in 14 inch cane holster (it's a CCW gun case that's also great with a cane.) This 9 section cane telescopes to 11 inches and you can lock individual sections to make it shorter (54 48.) The waist pack is 17.5 inches long by 7 inches deep and with back to front expansion of 4 inches. It holds a lot. The price is $100, incl. shipping. This is $25 off retail. We have 5 of these available. To order call either Barry (617) 969-7500 📱️ or Kae (781) 286-1696 📱️ or email barry.scheur@gmail.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, affordable, 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
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: That Real Blind Tech Show
➜ That Real Blind Tech Show Episode 96: We Got More Resolutions, ACB Style!
It's a fully packed That Real Blind Tech show lair. Join us as we recap this year's ACB Resolutions. We chime in with all of our opinions about this year's resolutions, and as usual some hilarity ensues. You will not want to miss both AirPods issues that take place on this episode. We are adding do not listen to That Real Blind Tech show on the bus as we are not responsible for the stares you will receive when laughing or cackling like a lunatic!
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-96-we-got-more-resolutions-acb-style
Sponsor Since: August 11th 2022
Website: https://blindtechshow.com/ 🌐
Email: ThatRealBlindTechShow@gmail.com 📧️
Social: Facebook Page | Facebook Group | Twitter
Listen: Apple Podcasts | Audible | Google Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube
Hosts: Brian Fischler | Ed Plumacher | Allison Meloy | Jenine Stanley
Goals: We want to educate you on the latest tech for the blindness community. You'll learn what is worth keeping and what you need to return. Our goals are: To inform, inspire and educate our audience. Feature guests and products that bring you value. Continuously improve and deliver the best content.
About: A podcast discussing the good & bad of assistive technology for the low vision & totally blind. No longer focused on just Apple VoiceOver technology. That Real Blind Tech show covers all the fantastic talking tech and gadgets out there for the low vision and blindness community. Common topics include Apple's VoiceOver, JAWS, Microsoft Narrator, NVDA, Amazon Alexa and VoiceView, Google Assistant and Android. Basically, if a device can talk to you, we are going to be talking about it. That Real Blind Tech Show will not only educate you, but it will also make you laugh. Listeners are encouraged to not use treadmills or drink hot coffee while listening to our show, or accidents can and have occurred. Dishes have been broken while listening to That Real Blind Tech Show, and while we are responsible for the laughs, we are in no way responsible for the injuries or bills that pile up. Remember to keep it Real and also don't believe anything you hear on That Real Blind Tech Show.
Home | Episodes | Blog | Contact | Subscribe
Sponsor: Aira
➜ Webinar: Discovering Aira and Content Creation | October 25th 2022 at 2:00 PM ET
Creating content for the ever-expanding media world is a growing profession. During #NDEAM2022 we want to spotlight how blind and low vision people are working in this space. Whether for income or personal brand, these creators integrate visual interpreting into their processes. We'll also get advice from Aira Agents on how to make the most of visual interpreting when creating your content. Join us Tuesday, October 25th 2022 at 2:00pm Eastern time. Register at:
https://aira.zoom.us/webinar/register/9116639399059/WN_g9O7k3RaR7mYYT1ODnm0cA
Sponsor Since: August 4th 2022
Website: https://aira.io/ 🌐
Download the App: Apple App Store | Google Play Store
Plans and Pricing: https://aira.io/pricing/
Phone: NA: +1.800.835.1934 📱️ | AU: +1.800.765.096 📱️ | UK: +0.800.046.5668 📱️ | NZ: +1.800.425.451 📱️
Text Message: NA: +1.858.242.4457 📲 | AU: +61.488.839.767 📲 | UK: +44.149.320.2474 📲
Email: support@aira.io 📧️
Social: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
About: Aira's mission is to remove barriers and make the world more accessible with visual interpreting.
We provide a live, human-to-human professional assistance service, an accommodation or productivity tool, that enhances independence by delivering on-demand, skilled and reliable visual interpreting for just about any task. Using the powerful combination of a camera and the Aira app on someone's device of 'choice', a professionally-trained agent will assist by visually interpreting what is in the camera's view or on screen, from describing to reading, from explaining to navigating - just about anything, safely and securely. Aira supports a growing range of devices including smart and tactile button phones, desktop computers and soon, wearables.
Whether you are involved in the work of business, the work of school or the work of life, Aira enhances everyday efficiency, engagement, and independence. Used by employees and customers of hundreds of organizations including airports, banks, the largest software companies, financial firms, retailers and universities, we invite you to join the community, access the Aira app today and try it for free.
https://aira.io/download-and-try-it/
Step One: Subscribe and Download. Pick the plan that lets you explore on your terms and on your time, sign up in a few minutes, and download the Aira app to your smartphone. Plans shown are for the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Add or cancel at any time.
Step Two: Connect with an Aira Agent. On the first call, connect with one of our certified, specially-trained Agents and learn how everything works.
Step Three: Real-time Assistance. At the touch of a button, Aira delivers instant access to visual information, when and where you want it.
Sponsor: Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
➜ Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore: Touch Tomorrow in Today's Products
Serving blind people since 1999, we're a family-owned, forward-thinking company offering both tried-and-true and exciting new products for blind and low vision consumers. We design and carry self-voicing educational software, Braille supplies, talking gadgets, adapted household items, tactile card and board games, audible toys and gift ideas. Passionate about innovation, we've also created dozens of products from scratch when a suitable solution did not exist. Shop online at http://www.braillebookstore.com/ and enjoy fast, free shipping.
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: http://www.braillebookstore.com/ 🌐
Phone (Toll Free): (800) 987-1231 📱️
Fax (Toll Free): (800) 985-1231 ░
Email: Sales@BrailleBookstore.com 📧️
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time.
About: Welcome to Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore. We have been supplying products to blind people and their families since 1999. We offer thousands of Braille books, toys, games, kitchen aids, and talking products. We have unbeatable prices, fast, free shipping, and great customer service! We have tons of Braille books and cool products to choose from; so grab a cup of coffee, relax, and we'll give you a quick tour:
Products:
➜ Timekeeping
➜ Housewares
➜ On The Go
➜ Low Vision Products
➜ Toys and Games
➜ Gift Shop
➜ Braille Workshop
➜ Braille Bookstore
➜ Greeting Cards
➜ Copy Center
➜ Computer Lab
➜ Popular Products
➜ New Products
If you need some fresh ideas or have questions, you can also check out our Shopping Guides.
Sponsor: Fable
➜ Tired Of Paying For Inaccessible Learning Apps?
We get it. Focus on the content that matters to you and spend less time trying to navigate online learning with your assistive technology. Verified by a community of accessibility testers, Fable Pathways offers free, assistive-technology-friendly online learning, compatible with devices like screen readers, screen magnifiers, voice navigation, and switch controls. Sign up today for your free, accessible, membership at:
https://www.fablepathways.com
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: https://fablepathways.com/ 🌐
Email: community@makeitfable.com 📧️
Phone: (888) 212-3532 📱️ Extension 810
About: Just like curb cuts help everyone get on and off sidewalks, designing digital products with accessibility in mind helps make the internet more accessible for everyone. Fable is an accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities. Fable connects people with disabilities to accessibility managers, user researchers, designers, and developers to build incredible and accessible user experiences.
Opportunities:
➜ Fable Pathways: Fable Pathways is a free skill development program for people with disabilities interested in working in the tech sector. Sign up to take your career to the next level. Courses include "Getting started in web development" taught by Kelly Ford, a screen reader user, and Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, and "Becoming a manager" taught by Fable's Head of Accessibility Innovation, Kate Kalcevich. Instructors are subject matter experts in their fields and have lived experience with disability. Pathways courses are free, self-paced and assistive-technology-friendly. Sign up now at https://fablepathways.com/.
➜ Fable's Community of Accessibility Testers: Work from home to contribute to real changes in digital accessibility and make the internet a more accessible place for everyone. Ever leave a website because it was too hard to navigate? Because it was missing button labels? Because it didn't respond to voice commands? Us too. Our community of testers who use assistive technologies work from home and contribute to real changes in digital accessibility with recognizable brands. Earn money to share your feedback on websites and apps of your favorite brands and work with companies that care. No experience required and no resume required. Fable is looking for assistive technology users in the USA and Canada to work the hours that they want, from the comfort of their own homes. Learn more at https://fablepathways.com/community/.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ Dolphin Friends Program
If you work for a non-profit, charity or society that provides services to people with visual impairments, we invite you to take part in our Dolphin Friends Program. Dolphin will outfit your center with assistive technology solutions that can benefit your clients who need to remain independent, are trying to sharpen their technology skills for employment and more. Learn more about becoming a Dolphin Friend:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/join-dolphin-friends
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Sponsor: Clusiv
➜ Looking For Blind Job-Seekers Wanting To Advance Their Salaries, Careers And Digital Accessibility For The Blind
Are you interested in learning new tech skills and working remotely while earning a competitive salary? At Clusiv.io we have created the world's first digitally accessible e-Learning platform built by the blind, and built for the blind. Visit the link provided and request Clusiv through your Vocational Rehab counselor for lifetime access to our e-Learning platform with courses such as Business Applications, JAWS, and more:
https://clusiv.io/
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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 from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Control the climate of your home independently! The VIP 3000 is a universal heating — cooling talking thermostat This accessible digital thermostat is specifically designed to offer audio playback of indoor temperature, temperature settings and programming instructions so blind and visually impaired users can independently & precisely manage their indoor comfort. Don't over pay. Read more at:
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 every day 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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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.
Your Name Here
0 of 18 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are currently 0 of 18 packages available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, December 8, 2022 - Volume 888
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.
Subscribers: 7,149 Opt-In Subscribers were sent this issue via email. 157 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Announcing New Monthly Webinar Series From The Lighthouse For The Blind, Inc.
What's roasting over that open fire, and what's nipping at my nose? There's an app for that.
December 14th 2022 | 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 12AM GMT on 12/15 | Come explore SuperSense and Seeing AI, two leading apps that leverage artificial intelligence to describe the world around you. We'll compare these apps in real world scenarios, learn to maximize their functionality, and help you decide which app might best meet your needs in this fun, interactive and informative webinar from the The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar. Register in advance at:
https://thelighthousefortheblindinc.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_54Ben7JCTBeh66IoXUzzWA
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Tidbit for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Check Out This Library Of Obsolete Sounds, Including Plenty Of Clips Of Old Tech (9.0% of all clicks.)
Obsolete Sounds is a new project that its creator Cities and Memory claims is "the world's biggest collection of obsolete and disappearing sounds."" It consists of over 150 sounds that are increasingly rare, ranging from sounds used in retro video games, recordings of old-fashioned transport, and plenty of mechanical sounds from outdated hardware:
https://www.theverge.com/2022/11/28/23481711/obsolete-sounds-project-cities-and-memory-modem
B.) Wonderful YouTube Video Containing Samples Of Many Old And Modern Text To Speech Engines/Humor | David Goldfield | Tech-VI List (8.6% of all clicks.)
The individual who produced this video either has too much time on their hands, too many text to speech engines or a combination of the two. This is a wonderful and light video to end the year and I personally found parts of it to be hilarious. Warning: some voices may be unexpectedly loud:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LsJS7SZdkAI
C.) Neuralink Co-Founder Unveils Cyborg Eye Prosthesis To Cure Blindness (8.2% of all clicks.)
The co-founder of Elon Musk's brain chip startup Neuralink has unveiled a visual prosthesis for blind patients as part of a new project. The Science Eye aims to target two forms of serious blindness that currently have no cure, before eventually serving as a brain-computer interface (BCI) by transmitting information through a wearer's optic nerve:
https://www.independent.co.uk/tech/neuralink-science-eye-brain-computer-interface-b2231585.html
D.) Use Gmail With A Screen Reader (7.4% of all clicks.)
We understand that this how-to article has recently been updated:
https://support.google.com/mail/answer/90559?hl=en
E.) Your iPhone Has 26 New Accessibility Tools You Shouldn't Ignore (6.3% of all clicks.)
This is a handy rundown of the latest accessibility features on iOS devices:
https://ios.gadgethacks.com/how-to/your-iphone-has-26-new-accessibility-tools-you-shouldnt-ignore-0385071/
2) Sponsorship Package Updates
There are no Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Packages currently available. If you would like to support Top Tech Tidbits by becoming a Sponsor in the future please add your name to our waiting list today by sending an email to our Publisher at the address below. We will add your name to the list, let you know what position you currently hold within it, and then notify you the moment a package becomes available. There are currently four future Sponsors on the waiting list:
publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️
3) Premium Subscriber Updates
Premium Subscribers are entitled to all back issues, anytime they sign up. All available back issues will be sent to you via email within 24 hours of purchasing your subscription. Premium Subscribers will receive their 3rd Volume of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits for October, November and December 2022 on Monday, January 2nd 2023. If you would like to receive a perfectly formatted and searchable Word Document with each of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits of the last 3 months listed neatly within it, please consider joining us today for just $1 a month:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/premium-subscribers.html
4) Apple Highlights Accessibility Features on iPhone, Mac, and More in New Ad
On November 30th 2022 Apple shared a new ad titled "The Greatest" that highlights accessibility features available on the iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch. Namely, the ad demonstrates the Door Detection, Sound Recognition, and Voice Control features on these devices:
https://www.macrumors.com/2022/11/30/apple-the-greatest-accessibility-ad/
5) Apple Music Sing Brings Karaoke Mode to Subscribers
The Spotify rival's new feature includes separate lyrics for backup vocals and duets:
https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/apple-music-sing-karaoke-mode-lets-you-unleash-your-inner-rock-star/#ftag=CAD590a51e
6) iOS 16 Accessibility: How To Use Live Captions and Accessibility Shortcuts | Meryl Evans
I finally got a sign it was time to upgrade from an iPhone 7 Plus. Of course, I like to use the latest technologies. But I also like to stretch my dollars. So, I drive cars (2008) and use technologies for as long as possible. What was the sign? Two words: Live Captions (beta). The catch? Live Captions would only be available for iPhone 11 and later. No way was I going to miss out on Live Captions. Here are the models that support Live Captions:
https://equalentry.com/ios-live-captions-accessibility/
7) ChatGPT: Optimizing Language Models for Dialogue | OpenAI
Publisher (Di Blasi): Would you like to text back and forth with the current state of artificial intelligence? Here at Tidbits we encourage you to give it a try. Not because the technology is amazing, because it is, but because you will immediately begin to understand, as a user of adaptive technology, just how transformative this technology might become. You will need to create a free account with OpenAI in order to use ChatGPT, or any of the other models that are currently open for exploration.
OpenAI: We've trained a model called ChatGPT which interacts in a conversational way. The dialogue format makes it possible for ChatGPT to answer follow-up questions, admit its mistakes, challenge incorrect premises, and reject inappropriate requests. ChatGPT is a sibling model to InstructGPT, which is trained to follow an instruction in a prompt and provide a detailed response:
https://openai.com/blog/chatgpt/
8) Why Everyone's Talking About ChatGPT, a Mindblowing AI Chatbot
This artificial intelligence bot is an impressive writer, but you should still be careful how much you trust its answers:
https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/why-everyones-obsessed-with-chatgpt-a-mindblowing-ai-chatbot/#ftag=CAD590a51e
9) Introducing OpenAI's ChatGPT Chat Bot Generating Detailed Human-like Responses | David Goldfield | Tech-VI List
This is an experimental chat bot which provides detailed responses to a variety of questions and challenges. It seems to be all the rage of those who I follow on Mastodon and it's easy to understand why. You'll need to create an OpenAI account to use it. Before I post OpenAI's announcement about the bot I will provide a few examples of some of ChatGPT's responses. These responses are from questions which I typed into the chatbot's edit field. The questions or challenges go from serious to extremely silly. I have not edited any of the bot's responses:
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/3109
10) Add ChatGPT Answers To Google Search
ChatGPT is a new product by OpenAI that has been optimized for dialogs. You communicate with the artificial intelligence, for instance, by asking a question, and getting an answer. Several browser extensions have been created in the past days that integrate the functionality on Google Search. The main idea behind these is to add an independent response to a user's query on Google Search. Depending on the query in question, it may work better than Google Search, or not:
https://www.ghacks.net/2022/12/07/add-chatgpt-answers-to-google-search/
11) Google's Reading Mode App Helps Visually Impaired People Read Long-Form Content
Google has launched a new app called Reading Mode. It helps people with visual imparities and dyslexia read the content on the screen — especially articles. The newly released app works on any device running Android 9.0 or above. Once you install it on your phone, you will have to turn on the toggle for the app under the Accessibility settings. This allows the app to have a floating button on the screen all the time, so you can turn any app or webpage into a more accessible version:
https://techcrunch.com/2022/12/01/googles-reading-mode-app-helps-visually-impaired-people-read-long-form-content/
12) Indie Game Studio 'Play By Ears' Publishes Their First Audio Game: Evidence 11
Publisher (Di Blasi): This information comes to us directly from the 'Play By Ears' studio.
Studio: We recently published our very first audio game by the name of Evidence 111. It is a detective story for mobile phones and you can influence how the story ends by your choices. The game is mixed in binaural audio so it gives you a very strong sense of presence when you play it. We also use our own accessibility system, so you don't have to rely on voiceover. So far we have had a very good reception from players. We offer a free demo version. If you like the game you can buy the full version for just $4.99:
Game Trailer: https://youtu.be/EfbgBDg6k3E
Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/evidence-111/id1550652340
Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.PlayByEars.Evidence111
13) Indie Game Studio 'Play By Ears' Launches English Version of Audio Game: Evidence 11
We are happy to announce that we have just launched the English version of the game. Evidence 111 is now available on Android and iOS and features some of the most highly-renowned voice actors, including Zoe Robins, Emmy Award winner Rosamund Pike and Kenny Blyth:
Press Release: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/documents/2.pdf
Game Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xynpM1aCkfg
Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/evidence-111/id1550652340
Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.PlayByEars.Evidence111
14) Microsoft Neural Voices on Speech Central
Speech Central has added support for Microsoft Neural Voices in the latest version. Those are the high quality voices provided online through Microsoft's servers:
https://www.applevis.com/forum/ios-ipados/microsoft-neural-voices-speech-central
15) An Oversimplified Guide To Setting Up Mastodon | Sarah Higley
This is a guide for anyone who, like me, is casting about for alternatives to Twitter and would like an absolute minimum, bare-bones walkthrough for getting started with Mastodon. No evangelizing or attempted explanations of the "fediverse" will be involved:
https://sarahmhigley.com/writing/mastodon/
16) Third-Party Twitter App Makers Turn Their Attention To Mastodon
Open source Twitter alternative Mastodon has gained a bit of attention in the wake of Elon Musk's Twitter acquisition. Now, it's gaining interest from third-party Twitter app developers, as well. The makers of popular Twitter clients, including Aviary and Tweetbot, have recently set their sights on building similar clients for the growing Mastodon user base:
https://techcrunch.com/2022/12/05/third-party-twitter-app-makers-turn-their-attention-to-mastodon/?guccounter=1
17) Learning MetaText and Mastodon with AnonyMouse: Part 1 | AppleVis
In the first episode of a two part miniseries, Thomas Domville gives us an in-depth look at Mastodon and the MetaText app for iOS:
https://www.applevis.com/podcasts/learning-metatext-mastodon-anonymouse-part-1
18) Project Aims to Convey Big Data With Sound and Touch
From functioning effectively at work to keeping up with the news, modern society increasingly expects people to not only be data-literate, but also data-savvy. Charts and infographics that can make a sea of numbers tangible often present a barrier for blind users, and existing accessibility tools like screen readers cannot yet provide an overview of large data sets or charts, let alone in-depth searches. Supported by $433,000 from the National Science Foundation, two University of Maryland researchers are turning to sound and touch to help people analyze large-scale data:
https://today.umd.edu/project-aims-to-convey-big-data-with-sound-and-touch
19) Technology Guides for Blind Users | Holiday Gift Ideas For Adaptive Technology Learners | National Braille Press
Most Recent Technology Books: The Power of PowerPoint: Using a Screen Reader to Create Attention-Grabbing Presentations , by Judy Dixon, $14.00. | Microsoft Windows 11 Keystroke Compendium, $10.00 and up. | An Introduction to Chromebooks: Big Productivity in a Small Package, by Kim Nova and Chris Nova, $14.00. | Designing Documents for Appearance: Using a Screen Reader to Create Eye-Catching Newsletters, Flyers, Certificates, and More, by Judy Dixon, $14.00. | Emoji Tactile Graphics: Names, Meanings, and Tactile Graphics of 97 Face Emoji, $28.00. Computer Basics for the Newly Blind User: An Introduction to Windows-Related Assistive Technology, by Kim Nova and Chris Nova, $14.00 and up:
https://www.nbp.org/ic/nbp/publications/technology.html
20) AppleVis Unlimited: What's New and Noteworthy for November 2022
https://www.applevis.com/blog/applevis-unlimited-whats-new-noteworthy-november-2022
21) Cast Your Votes Now for the AppleVis Golden Apples of 2022
AppleVis has announced nominees and is now seeking your votes for the best apps of the year in several categories. "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/blog/cast-your-votes-now-applevis-golden-apples-2022
22) Microsoft Teams Launches New Accessibility Feature
In a Microsoft blog post, Accessibility Architect Chris Sano announced the creation of a "best-in-class experience for the deaf and hard of hearing (D/HH) community" on Teams:
https://coolblindtech.com/microsoft-teams-launches-new-accessibility-feature/
23) All of Microsoft's PowerToys for Windows 10 and 11, Explained
Microsoft's PowerToys come installed with Windows and aim to help users get the most out of their operating system. There are many in the lineup, so we decided to take a closer look at them. This article gives an overview of Microsoft's PowerToys for Windows 10 and 11:
https://www.ghacks.net/microsofts-powertoys-windows-10-11
24) Blind Abilities Podcast Interview With Menus4All Vice President of Marketing Stephanie Jones | YouTube
Menus4All Vice president of Marketing, Stephanie Jones, returns to the blind Abilities studio to announce the launch of their new app, Menus4All. The largest and most accessible menu for the Blind and Visually Impaired. With over 750,000 unique menus from United States and Canada, this well organized and accessible app is the cat's meow. From the voiceover accessibility, headings, near me list population and ease of use, this is the best thing since slice bread. And yes, you can search for bread or any other menu item or zip code or many other options that will suit your needs:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8b-F2WJhOfk
25) Recording: NRTC Webinar: Linking Up with LinkedIn From November 30th 2022
With great interest in this webinar, we know many of you could not attend, or you may have attended but want to share this information with others. This webinar is now available to view on our Webinars and Podcasts page at:
https://www.ntac.blind.msstate.edu/consumers/webinars-podcasts
26) Upcoming Training Course From Hartgen Consultancy: Brave Words: Harnessing the Power of the Brave Browser With JAWS For Windows
Considering that most of us increasingly rely on the web browser to get things done, the search for the perfect web browser will never stop. Learning the facilities of an alternative browser to the one you currently use is always preferable so you can make the right choice. Discover how to gain the most from Brave in an accessible way and enter a brave new world:
https://www.hartgen.org/bravewords
27) NV Access | In-Process 2nd December 2022
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-2nd-december-2022/
28) New Features Have Arrived For The Pixel Family
VPN by Google, enhanced call quality, and call transcription with speaker labels are coming to Google phones:
https://blog.google/products/pixel/feature-drop-december-2022/
29) Giphy Is Adding Alt Text To Make Gifs More Accessible
Human professionals will add alternative text, not AI:
https://www.engadget.com/giphy-alt-text-gifs-screen-readers-accessibility-scribely-184931525.html
30) Apple Advances User Security With Powerful New Data Protections
Apple has expanded the types of data on its services that is encrypted end-to-end. Support for hardware security keys is also coming, both in 2023:
https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2022/12/apple-advances-user-security-with-powerful-new-data-protections/
31) Libre Office Getting Started Guide 7.4 and Impress Guide 7.4 Available for Download
The Impress Guide 7.4 was coordinated by Peter Schofield and revised by Kees Kriek. The guide is available in PDF as well as in ODF formats. An online version is available in the bookshelf website:
https://blog.documentfoundation.org/blog/2022/12/01/getting-started-guide-7-4-and-impress-guide-7-4-available-for-download/
32) Version 1.1 Of StellarTrek: A Major Update Of Our Orientation And Mobility Digital Assistant | Humanware
The StellarTrek has been out for a few months now. Still hesitating to buy one? These updates might change your mind:
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/3079
33) Announcing BrailleBlaster 2.0.42-stable
https://www.freelists.org/post/aphbrailleblaster-announce/Announcing-BrailleBlaster-2042stable
34) Explore Accessibility Via Amazon Alexa At Sight Tech Global 2022
A little-appreciated fact about Amazon's Alexa is where the voice service's public debut took place before it became widely available to customers. The venue was CSUN, the longstanding conference dedicated to assistive technology for people with disabilities, notably vision loss. No one had more to gain from a machine that could provide quick replies to spoken questions, and no group could provide more incisive feedback:
https://techcrunch.com/2022/12/01/explore-accessibility-via-amazon-alexa-at-sight-tech-global-2022/
35) The Challenge of Finding a Usable Table on the Web | The Idea Place | Kelly Ford
Publisher (Di Blasi): I, Aaron Di Blasi, Publisher for Access Information News, am also a web developer that specializes in using HTML and CSS to create custom user interfaces, and I would like to note here that the struggle involving accessible tables is real. Even to this day. I'm honestly not sure if it's gotten better, or if it's gotten worse. Why you ask? If tables can be coded in such a way as to make them fully accessible then what's the problem? Why are there still so many tables on the internet today that are still absolutely terrible to navigate with a screen reader? Because accessibility is not built in. It has to be coded for, specifically. And more often than not this specific accessibility coding is not done at the time the table is built. So it must be done after. Maybe after this table has already scaled to thousands of users. Or more. And that kind of scale can make such a task highly difficult to achieve. Or altogether cost-prohibitive. And so, we are left with inaccessible, or barely accessible tables, everywhere.
Kelly Ford: Several months ago, I started a podcast with a nephew of mine. In a quest to feed what I lovingly call the monster because the podcast always needs content, I was researching some NFL statistics and it was a poignant reminder of what a challenge it is to find consistently usable tables on the web:
https://theideaplace.net/the-challenge-of-finding-a-usable-table-on-the-web/
36) Potential Accessibility Concern: Microsoft Forms Are About To Get A Lot More Powerful | David Goldfield | Tech-VI List
As a regular user of Microsoft Forms I have a concern that the inclusion of this feature could result in data which will be inaccessible to screen reader users. Essentially, this feature will permit users to insert images as an answer or response in a form:
https://www.windowscentral.com/software-apps/microsoft-forms-will-support-inserting-images-in-quizzes-and-forms-by-the-end-of-this-year
37) With The Releasee Of iOS 16, Apple Brought Eloquence, And Now eSpeak Has Popped Up On The iOS App Store
The eSpeak NG is a compact open source software text-to-speech synthesizer. It supports more than 100 languages and accents. It is based on the eSpeak engine created by Jonathan Duddington. This app adds a compatibility layer between eSpeak NG library and Apple VoiceOver. eSpeak is here, on iOS, and macOS as well. You will need at least iOS 16.1.1 or macOS 13.0.1 or later for this to work:
AppleVis For More Info: https://www.applevis.com/apps/ios/utilities/espeak-ng
Apple App Store to Download App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/espeak-ng/id6444089174
38) Rocket Switch — Accessibility Done With Elegance
This is an accessibility-enabling controller, a USB HID device which interfaces to a wide variety of headphone-jack-connectable switches. With this device, someone unable to use a computer mouse can use two tactile buttons to control their computer, either by imitating mouse clicks or by sending keypresses into accessibility software equipped a control flow for such two-switch arrangements:
https://hackaday.com/2022/12/04/rocket-switch-accessibility-done-with-elegance/
39) What's New in JAWS 2023 Screen Reading Software | Freedom Scientific
https://support.freedomscientific.com/downloads/jaws/JAWSWhatsNew
40) From Hartgen Consultancy: JAWS Scripts For The Vocaster Hub Have Been Updated | Hartgen Consultancy
Scripts for the Vocaster Hub are updated. The following changes have been made since the previous version:
https://tweesecake.social/@hartgenconsult/109443614992188868
41) How We're Making Firefox Accessible And Delightful For Everyone | Jamie Teh
This International Day of Persons with Disabilities, I want to take a moment to share how we're working to make Firefox not just accessible. We want to make sure the browser is also delightful, efficient and easy to use for everyone, including the more than 1 billion people around the world who live with disabilities:
https://blog.mozilla.org/en/products/firefox/firefox-news/firefox-accessibility-text-recognition-screen-readers/
42) The 7 Best AI Voice Generators
AI voice-generation technology is more sophisticated than it's ever been. Give these voice generators a try and see for yourself:
https://www.makeuseof.com/best-ai-voice-generators/
43) Google Nest Thermostat vs. Nest Learning Thermostat: Which One Is Best for You?
Looking to invest in a smart thermostat but can't decide which one? This comparison between the Nest Learning and Nest Thermostat should help:
https://www.makeuseof.com/nest-thermostat-vs-nest-learning-thermostat/
44) Checking Out The New C.Crane CC Skywave SSB 2 Radio | Jock Elliott | KB2GOM
Folks who are regular readers of my posts here have already figured out that I am a big fan of the C.Crane Skywave SSB. It is easily the most versatile radio I own, receiving AM (medium wave), FM, shortwave, HF single sideband, NOAA weather stations with alert, and scannable civilian VHF frequencies, and I have written enthusiastically about it here on multiple occasions. I think of the Skywave SSB as my "anti-boredom machine." It's small enough to slide into a shirt or jacket pocket or tuck into any pack. Get stuck waiting in line, whip out the Skywave SSB, plug in a pair of ear buds, and listen to whatever is available:
https://swling.com/blog/2022/11/checking-out-the-new-c-crane-cc-skywave-ssb-2/
➜ Surveys
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related survey for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-survey or locate "Survey Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Surveys | APH
Closes: Ongoing Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Podcast Episode for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-podcast-episode or locate "Podcast Episode Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Hadley Insights and Sound Bites Podcast: You Can't Do This Alone
December 1st 2022 | Sharon shares with us how she worked through the isolation and found people just like her to get the support she needed:
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/insights-sound-bites/you-cant-do-alone
2) Mosen at Large Episode 209: Aira To Increase Prices And Make Free Offers Less Generous, Mastodon Adoption Increases Rapidly, And Be Sure To Vote For Your Top 10 Holiday Songs
3) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 104: Looking At The Google Autofill Settings
December 3rd 2022 | One plus has announced that from 2023, its flagships will get four years of Android updates and five years of security updates. Be careful of the password managers you use. LastPass recently suffered further security difficulties. This week, we look at the Autofill-related aspects of the Passwords and Accounts section of the Settings app. App of the week. We demo the recently released reading mode. Tip of the week. We show you how to find out more about the Wi-Fi network and band you are connected to. This episode can be found and downloaded from our website and on this playlist:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqo7ZIVx0y5IesM0eVWGxaZ6
4) Blind Abilities Episode 913: Menus4All App is Now in the App Store! Stephanie Jones Returns to Give Us All the Details and More
December 4th 2022 | Menus4All Vice president of Marketing, Stephanie Jones, returns to the blind Abilities studio to announce the launch of their new app, Menus4All. The largest and most accessible menu for the Blind and Visually Impaired. With over 750,000 unique menus from United States and Canada, this well organized and accessible app is the cat's meow. From the voiceover accessibility, headings, near me list population and ease of use, this is the best thing since slice bread. And yes, you can search for bread or any other menu item or zip code or many other options that will suit your needs. Co-hosting with Jeff Thompson in the studio is Serena Olsen, aka @BlindBroad from the Facebook Live show, The Blind Grind. Stephanie, Serena and Jeff share some experiences, laughs and a lot of information about the development, the usability and the multiple ways a user can buy, subscribe and utilize the Menus4All App:
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7730
5) Blind Abilities Episode 914: Tech Bootcamps For Microsoft Suite And Google Workspace By Career Launch @ Perkins — Job Training And Career Services For Blind Adults
December 5th 2022 | Program Director, Alicia Smith and Training and Program Specialist, Brian Switzer, join Jeff Thompson in the Blind Abilities studio to talk about the latest offerings at Perkins Career Launch at Perkins is currently offering week-long Tech Bootcamp sessions to help adults use access technology to work effectively and efficiently with the tools most commonly used in the workplace: Google Workspace and Microsoft Suite. Each week-long, virtual session costs $250 and includes 20 hours of coursework, including live classes taught via Zoom, independent assignments submitted via email as well as assessments before and after the session. Microsoft Session 1: January 23rd-27th. Google Session 1: January 30th -February 3rd. Microsoft Session 2: February 13th- 17th. Google Session 2: February 20th-24th:
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7732
6) Eyes on Success Episode 2249: Without Sight
December 7th 2022 | As many of our listeners know, despite being born blind, co-host of Eyes On Success Peter Torpey enjoyed math and science as a youth and went on to obtain a Ph.D. in Engineering Physics and work as a research scientist at Xerox Corporation. This week Marie Sina of Deutsche Welle talks to Peter about his educational and work experiences in science:
http://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show_notes_2249.htm
7) Blind Abilities, 416, ABLR Works: BVI Training Program for Digital Accessibility Testers — Meet CEO, Disability Awareness Speaker and Author, John Samuel
December 7th 2022 | When speaking to businesses ,adding Accessibility to Diversity Equity and Inclusion, an IDEA worth Spreading.is what John Samuel is all about. As CEO of ABLR Works, John talks about a new program that they have developed to teach Blind and Visually Impaired students to become Digital Accessibility Testers. ABLR Works has teamed up with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services' Division of Services for the Blind (DSB) to kick off the statewide initiative this month. With this model, John hopes the programs at ABLR Works will spread across the States. John talks about his Blindness journey and embracing his disability/authentic self and the release of his new book, "Don't Ask the Blind guy for Directions: A 30,000-Mile Journey for Love, Confidence, and a Sense of belonging:"
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7739
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Webinar, Training Course or Event for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-event or locate "Webinar / Training Course Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Gifts & Gab: A Holiday Gift Guide | Vispero
December 8th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Vispero Presenters: Mike Wood and Michelle Williams. Summary: Michelle and Mike will share the gift of gab as they cover popular low-vision products. They will share how each can be used around the holiday season and why they make such meaningful gifts! Bring your questions — this will be a very interactive session! Objectives: Attendees will learn the benefits of traveling with a video magnifier—determining proper storage and care while you travel with a screened product. Attendees will learn how to shop and look at price tags and vital information with a smaller screen magnifier. We will discuss the difference between sleep mode and turning the unit on and off. Learn how important proper lighting is while doing holiday tasks. ACVREP Credits: ACVREP credits will be available for those who attend the live webinar. Register for this webinar on Zoom:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_OT_SYdp_Qc-TelUVIyHoDA
2) 2022 Digital Accessibility Legal Update with Lainey Feingold | Free Webinar
December 8th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | What We'll Cover: A lot has happened in the digital accessibility legal space this year — have you kept up? Most recently, a new digital accessibility law was introduced in the United States Congress. If the law passes as written, it will result in digital accessibility regulations for both websites and software applications. Commercial providers who design, develop, and modify certain websites or applications are part of the proposed legislation. Speaker: Lainey Feingold. Lainey Feingold is a disability rights lawyer who has worked in the digital accessibility space since 1995. She is also an author and international speaker. Lainey, along with her blind clients and co-counsel, helped negotiate the first web accessibility agreement in the United States more than twenty years ago. She has worked with dozens of companies on their accessibility initiatives since that time. Lainey is the author of Structured Negotiation: A Winning Alternative to Lawsuits. Her book shares stories and strategies from twenty-five years of collaborations and relationship-building to help create an inclusive digital world. Register here:
https://go.3playmedia.com/wbnr-12-08-2022-lainey
3) TTS: Elevating Art Over compliance
December 9th 2022 | 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 12AM GMT on 12/10 | This is an audio event. TTS (text to speech) Audio Description has mixed reception from AD users, though the majority think it's awful. Despite this, TTS is growing in popularity among providers because it's cheaper than human narration and helps companies reach baseline legal compliance. If Audio Description is intended to bring communities together, inform and entertain, and be a respected art form and professional field, then the AD community (both audiences and professionals) must come together to influence companies to stop cutting costs by cutting corners on quality. Let's discuss the state of the industry, how we can reach streaming channels, filmmakers, and providers, and support a flourishing Audio Description field where art is elevated over compliance:
https://www.linkedin.com/events/tts-elevatingartovercompliance7004569396740317184/about/
4) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
December 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
5) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 3: Creative Manual Activities for Christmas | APH
December 12th 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Christmas is a great time to create crafts. Let's share amazing and fun tactile ideas adapted to visually impaired children:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
6) Basics of Accessibility Testing | TPGi
December 13th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Presenter: Aaron Farber, Senior Accessibility Platform Consultant. Accessibility testing is a critical step in delivering a modern online experience. This webinar goes beyond testing checklists to answer the fundamental questions people have when they start testing for web accessibility. For accessibility testing to be effective, organizations must understand what makes a digital experience equal. We'll cover web accessibility, the role and structure of Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), and how to quantify the risk associated with a guideline. Additionally, we'll discuss the following: How to set the scope for accessibility testing and feel confident you are covering the "right parts" of a website/web application. We'll document mouse-only, keyboard-only, and assistive technology testing plans. We'll delve into how web pages expose "semantics" and the tools to understand if your site is properly conveying its meaning to assistive technology. How to get expert support beyond your team to be sure that your accessibility testing results are accurate and more! Learn how to use the tools, access resources, and receive clear steps to perform a full-scale WCAG audit. Register:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-december-13-at-12pm-et-basics-of-accessibility-testing/
7) Partner Showcase: Audiojack's Newest O+M Experience | APH ConnectCenter
December 13th 2022 | 1PM PT, 2PM MT, 3PM CT, 4PM ET, 8PM GMT | The APH Partner Showcase for December features Audiojack and its creator David Tobin. Listen live to the latest O&M Audiojack in the Life category, located in the mobile app and on the website. Then, engage with other Audience members and David as you discuss the newest Audiojack. The APH Partner Showcase is part of Access Academy, but does not offer ACVREP credits. The Showcase is strictly informational/promotional, and highlights some of APH's partner vendors in the field, and their product(s):
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_GnG1mrKsT0SX60sz1MDs4g
8) Explore SuperSense and Seeing AI Webinar | Lighthouse For The Blind, Inc.
December 14th 2022 | 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 12AM GMT on 12/15 | Come explore SuperSense and Seeing AI, two leading apps that leverage artificial intelligence to describe the world around you. We'll compare these apps in real world scenarios, learn to maximize their functionality, and help you decide which app might best meet your needs in this fun, interactive and informative webinar from the The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar. Register in advance at:
https://thelighthousefortheblindinc.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_54Ben7JCTBeh66IoXUzzWA
9) Creating Accessible Promotional Materials (Digital Accessibility Webinar) | Access Ingenuity
December 14th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | As a document author, learn about choosing colors, selecting images, and laying out your brochure, poster, or flyer in an engaging yet accessible way. Join Rachel Reeves in reviewing the most accessible way to create PDF Promotional Material. Learning Outcomes: Review color contrast requirements. Address mistakes commonly made in the Layout/Reading Order of one-page posters or flyers. Understand obstacles commonly encountered if using authoring tools such as Canva or Illustrator. Analyze poor templates that have images and fonts that make PDF remediation difficult. Meeting ID: 865 1628 1737 | Passcode: 967492 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,86516281737#,,,,*967492# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86516281737?pwd=NTZDdzRmZUdieFBTWnRiMzFsQVhHdz09#success
10) Training Course: Catching Up with JAWS Chapter 4 for JAWS 2022 and 2023 | Hartgen Consultancy
December 14th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | Catching Up with JAWS is priced £35 which is approximately 40 American dollars. Now is your chance to get some high quality training on some of the latest features within the screen-reader JAWS for Windows which have been introduced over the past two years. This follows on from our previous popular training courses on this subject. These training courses are still popular and people are purchasing the older volumes in the series even today:
https://www.hartgen.org/catchup4
11) Career Conversations with Joe Strechay | APH ConnectCenter
December 15th 2022 | 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 12AM on 12/16 GMT | Join us and meet Joe Strechay, a blind Film and Television Producer. No stranger to CareerConnect, Joe is back with us sharing his breakthrough into Television and film. Listen in and hear how as a blind professional, Joe works directly on set with actors and actresses who themselves are blind. From television and film sets both domestic and international, we will spend the hour engaging on this fascinating career:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_m0H5e0hpTeOLEeCIl-SH3g
12) Clear the Clutter: Personalize Your Web Experience with JAWS | Freedom Scientific
December 15th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Are you looking for ways to quickly locate information on web pages? Want to learn about JAWS features that will help you navigate more efficiently? Join us for a live webinar, "Clear the Clutter: Personalize Your Web Experience with JAWS." Objectives: We'll discuss different types of web content and show you how to: Use Flexible Web to quickly find or hide content. Hide/ignore inline frames. Use the Skim Reading tool to review page content. Navigate tables, forms, and web-based applications with Smart Navigation. Freedom Scientific Presenters: Elizabeth Whitaker, Cathy Johnson, and Rachel Buchanan. ACVREP Credits: ACVREP credits will be available for those who attend the live webinar. Help Us Spread the Word: Please feel free to share this with someone you think might benefit from attending. Register:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_S6hSiWGeRc-KLWIHjPK-rg
13) ZoomText, JAWS & Fusion: Latest Features (Assistive Technology Webinar) | Access Ingenuity
December 21st 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | It's that time again. Not only is it the holidays but also the time when there are important updates for ZoomText, JAWS, and Fusion. Join Ian Ramos and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity to explore what's new in the 2023 updates and some features within the past few years. Learning Outcomes: Briefly explain the differences between ZoomText, JAWS, and Fusion. Compare the different licenses and how you can find out if you are eligible for the latest updates. Explore new 2023 features such as Tethered View, Smart Glance, Notification History improvements, New Tables Only option for Smart Navigation, etc. Review recent features, including Docking the Quick Access Bar, Voice Assistant, Sound Splitter, New Vocalizer Expressive Voices and Languages, and more. Meeting ID: 827 9977 1867 | Passcode: 853407 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,82799771867#,,,,*853407# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82799771867?pwd=VVNHeWhjVVVLc1JDUUtSMlllMnlQZz09#success
14) Ask The Advocate | APH ConnectCenter
December 28th 2022 | 5:30PM PT, 6:30PM MT, 7:30PM CT, 8:30PM ET, 1:30AM GMT on 12/29 | Answering questions families have to better understand the processes, procedures and parent rights in a 504/IEP. When parents are better informed they will be better equipped to navigate and negotiate successful student outcomes:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_rSJUAYVjTfCA34Ibi8gyuQ
15) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 4: Braille Around the World | APH
January 4th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Let's celebrate Louis Braille's Day and explore different braille codes around the world:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
16) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 5: School Aged Numeracy | APH
February 1st 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Using LEGO Braille Bricks to do math: let's discover some of the many uses of these little bricks to develop numerical and geometry skills, understand symmetry, and much more:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
17) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 6: Daily Living Activities | APH
March 6th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Let's explore daily-living activities using LEGO Braille Bricks and share our best practices, experiences, tips:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
18) 2023 3rd Annual Axe-Con | Building Accessible Experiences | The World's Largest Digital Accessibility Conference
March 15th 2022 and March 16th 2023 | Deque Systems, the trusted leader in digital accessibility, has announced the third annual axe-con conference will return on March 15-16th, 2023. With the success of axe-con over the past two years, Deque will continue to host the conference as a free virtual event again next year. 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:
https://www.deque.com/blog/save-the-date-for-axe-con-2023/
19) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 7: Music | APH
April 5th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Let's discover together how to make music with these famous bricks! Come and share your creative ideas:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
20) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 8: STEM | APH
May 3rd 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Have you ever thought of doing science, computing, or technology with LEGO Braille Bricks? Expert guests will join us for an amazing session:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
21) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 9: Orientation & Mobility | APH
June 7th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | LEGO bricks to build plans, visualize routes, it's not new! But with LEGO Braille Bricks you can also create labels, add letters, words... Then it becomes really great:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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
✍ List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. Fill out this short form to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-buy-sell-trade or learn more on the Top Tech Tidbits website.
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: Freedom Scientific
➜ 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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Combine Learning And Gaming For A Fun Braille Adventure With Polly!
APH and Thinkerbell Labs are excited to introduce Polly, complete with customizable UEB lessons, songs, games, and stories! Join our waiting list to know when Polly is available:
https://www.aph.org/polly-wait-list/
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
➜ We're Insane To Do This, But It's The Holidays!
We are offering to the first 5 customers for this deal a combination of safety and security; our 60 inch locking telescopic titanium cane and a leather RFID waist pack with built in 14 inch cane holster (it's a CCW gun case that's also great with a cane.) This 9 section cane telescopes to 11 inches and you can lock individual sections to make it shorter (54 48.) The waist pack is 17.5 inches long by 7 inches deep and with back to front expansion of 4 inches. It holds a lot. The price is $100, incl. shipping. This is $25 off retail. We have 5 of these available. To order call either Barry (617) 969-7500 📱️ or Kae (781) 286-1696 📱️ or email barry.scheur@gmail.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, affordable, 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
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: That Real Blind Tech Show
➜ That Real Blind Tech Show Episode 96: We Got More Resolutions, ACB Style!
It's a fully packed That Real Blind Tech show lair. Join us as we recap this year's ACB Resolutions. We chime in with all of our opinions about this year's resolutions, and as usual some hilarity ensues. You will not want to miss both AirPods issues that take place on this episode. We are adding do not listen to That Real Blind Tech show on the bus as we are not responsible for the stares you will receive when laughing or cackling like a lunatic!
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-96-we-got-more-resolutions-acb-style
Sponsor Since: August 11th 2022
Website: https://blindtechshow.com/ 🌐
Email: ThatRealBlindTechShow@gmail.com 📧️
Social: Facebook Page | Facebook Group | Twitter
Listen: Apple Podcasts | Audible | Google Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube
Hosts: Brian Fischler | Ed Plumacher | Allison Meloy | Jenine Stanley
Goals: We want to educate you on the latest tech for the blindness community. You'll learn what is worth keeping and what you need to return. Our goals are: To inform, inspire and educate our audience. Feature guests and products that bring you value. Continuously improve and deliver the best content.
About: A podcast discussing the good & bad of assistive technology for the low vision & totally blind. No longer focused on just Apple VoiceOver technology. That Real Blind Tech show covers all the fantastic talking tech and gadgets out there for the low vision and blindness community. Common topics include Apple's VoiceOver, JAWS, Microsoft Narrator, NVDA, Amazon Alexa and VoiceView, Google Assistant and Android. Basically, if a device can talk to you, we are going to be talking about it. That Real Blind Tech Show will not only educate you, but it will also make you laugh. Listeners are encouraged to not use treadmills or drink hot coffee while listening to our show, or accidents can and have occurred. Dishes have been broken while listening to That Real Blind Tech Show, and while we are responsible for the laughs, we are in no way responsible for the injuries or bills that pile up. Remember to keep it Real and also don't believe anything you hear on That Real Blind Tech Show.
Home | Episodes | Blog | Contact | Subscribe
Sponsor: Aira
➜ Webinar: Discovering Aira and Content Creation | October 25th 2022 at 2:00 PM ET
Creating content for the ever-expanding media world is a growing profession. During #NDEAM2022 we want to spotlight how blind and low vision people are working in this space. Whether for income or personal brand, these creators integrate visual interpreting into their processes. We'll also get advice from Aira Agents on how to make the most of visual interpreting when creating your content. Join us Tuesday, October 25th 2022 at 2:00pm Eastern time. Register at:
https://aira.zoom.us/webinar/register/9116639399059/WN_g9O7k3RaR7mYYT1ODnm0cA
Sponsor Since: August 4th 2022
Website: https://aira.io/ 🌐
Download the App: Apple App Store | Google Play Store
Plans and Pricing: https://aira.io/pricing/
Phone: NA: +1.800.835.1934 📱️ | AU: +1.800.765.096 📱️ | UK: +0.800.046.5668 📱️ | NZ: +1.800.425.451 📱️
Text Message: NA: +1.858.242.4457 📲 | AU: +61.488.839.767 📲 | UK: +44.149.320.2474 📲
Email: support@aira.io 📧️
Social: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
About: Aira's mission is to remove barriers and make the world more accessible with visual interpreting.
We provide a live, human-to-human professional assistance service, an accommodation or productivity tool, that enhances independence by delivering on-demand, skilled and reliable visual interpreting for just about any task. Using the powerful combination of a camera and the Aira app on someone's device of 'choice', a professionally-trained agent will assist by visually interpreting what is in the camera's view or on screen, from describing to reading, from explaining to navigating - just about anything, safely and securely. Aira supports a growing range of devices including smart and tactile button phones, desktop computers and soon, wearables.
Whether you are involved in the work of business, the work of school or the work of life, Aira enhances everyday efficiency, engagement, and independence. Used by employees and customers of hundreds of organizations including airports, banks, the largest software companies, financial firms, retailers and universities, we invite you to join the community, access the Aira app today and try it for free.
https://aira.io/download-and-try-it/
Step One: Subscribe and Download. Pick the plan that lets you explore on your terms and on your time, sign up in a few minutes, and download the Aira app to your smartphone. Plans shown are for the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Add or cancel at any time.
Step Two: Connect with an Aira Agent. On the first call, connect with one of our certified, specially-trained Agents and learn how everything works.
Step Three: Real-time Assistance. At the touch of a button, Aira delivers instant access to visual information, when and where you want it.
Sponsor: Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
➜ Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore: Touch Tomorrow in Today's Products
Serving blind people since 1999, we're a family-owned, forward-thinking company offering both tried-and-true and exciting new products for blind and low vision consumers. We design and carry self-voicing educational software, Braille supplies, talking gadgets, adapted household items, tactile card and board games, audible toys and gift ideas. Passionate about innovation, we've also created dozens of products from scratch when a suitable solution did not exist. Shop online at http://www.braillebookstore.com/ and enjoy fast, free shipping.
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: http://www.braillebookstore.com/ 🌐
Phone (Toll Free): (800) 987-1231 📱️
Fax (Toll Free): (800) 985-1231 ░
Email: Sales@BrailleBookstore.com 📧️
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time.
About: Welcome to Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore. We have been supplying products to blind people and their families since 1999. We offer thousands of Braille books, toys, games, kitchen aids, and talking products. We have unbeatable prices, fast, free shipping, and great customer service! We have tons of Braille books and cool products to choose from; so grab a cup of coffee, relax, and we'll give you a quick tour:
Products:
➜ Timekeeping
➜ Housewares
➜ On The Go
➜ Low Vision Products
➜ Toys and Games
➜ Gift Shop
➜ Braille Workshop
➜ Braille Bookstore
➜ Greeting Cards
➜ Copy Center
➜ Computer Lab
➜ Popular Products
➜ New Products
If you need some fresh ideas or have questions, you can also check out our Shopping Guides.
Sponsor: Fable
➜ Free and Accessible Training for the Tech Sector
Fable Pathways helps you gain the skills that you need to work in the tech sector with a free, accessible, and on-demand program. Learn from industry leaders with disabilities to take your career to the next level, like Kelly Ford, Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, who introduces GitHub and VS Code using a screen reader. Spend less time and energy trying to access courses with your assistive technology and focus on the content that matters to you, with Fable Pathways' accessible platform. Sign up today!
https://www.fablepathways.com/
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: https://fablepathways.com/ 🌐
Email: community@makeitfable.com 📧️
Phone: (888) 212-3532 📱️ Extension 810
About: Just like curb cuts help everyone get on and off sidewalks, designing digital products with accessibility in mind helps make the internet more accessible for everyone. Fable is an accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities. Fable connects people with disabilities to accessibility managers, user researchers, designers, and developers to build incredible and accessible user experiences.
Opportunities:
➜ Fable Pathways: Fable Pathways is a free skill development program for people with disabilities interested in working in the tech sector. Sign up to take your career to the next level. Courses include "Getting started in web development" taught by Kelly Ford, a screen reader user, and Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, and "Becoming a manager" taught by Fable's Head of Accessibility Innovation, Kate Kalcevich. Instructors are subject matter experts in their fields and have lived experience with disability. Pathways courses are free, self-paced and assistive-technology-friendly. Sign up now at https://fablepathways.com/.
➜ Fable's Community of Accessibility Testers: Work from home to contribute to real changes in digital accessibility and make the internet a more accessible place for everyone. Ever leave a website because it was too hard to navigate? Because it was missing button labels? Because it didn't respond to voice commands? Us too. Our community of testers who use assistive technologies work from home and contribute to real changes in digital accessibility with recognizable brands. Earn money to share your feedback on websites and apps of your favorite brands and work with companies that care. No experience required and no resume required. Fable is looking for assistive technology users in the USA and Canada to work the hours that they want, from the comfort of their own homes. Learn more at https://fablepathways.com/community/.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ Dolphin Friends Program
If you work for a non-profit, charity or society that provides services to people with visual impairments, we invite you to take part in our Dolphin Friends Program. Dolphin will outfit your center with assistive technology solutions that can benefit your clients who need to remain independent, are trying to sharpen their technology skills for employment and more. Learn more about becoming a Dolphin Friend:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/join-dolphin-friends
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Sponsor: Clusiv
➜ Looking For Blind Job-Seekers Wanting To Advance Their Salaries, Careers And Digital Accessibility For The Blind
Are you interested in learning new tech skills and working remotely while earning a competitive salary? At Clusiv.io we have created the world's first digitally accessible e-Learning platform built by the blind, and built for the blind. Visit the link provided and request Clusiv through your Vocational Rehab counselor for lifetime access to our e-Learning platform with courses such as Business Applications, JAWS, and more:
https://clusiv.io/
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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 from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Control the climate of your home independently! The VIP 3000 is a universal heating — cooling talking thermostat This accessible digital thermostat is specifically designed to offer audio playback of indoor temperature, temperature settings and programming instructions so blind and visually impaired users can independently & precisely manage their indoor comfort. Don't over pay. Read more at:
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 every day 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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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 Next Generation in Accessibility
Need to quickly access a distant computer with minimal fuss? Need to quickly convert image documents into readable text? Today's students and working professionals demand more of their technology. Employers expect more of their workforce. Pneuma Solutions is bridging the gap using the best in machine learning to connect you to your environment when you need it, how you need it. Give us a try, and experience accessibility on a whole new level:
https://pneumasolutions.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.
Your Name Here
0 of 18 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are currently 0 of 18 packages available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, December 1, 2022 - Volume 887
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.
Subscribers: 7,136 Opt-In Subscribers were sent this issue via email. 148 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: The Clusiv Mobile App Is Finally Here And It's Free! Learn The Skills You Need From The Palm Of Your Hand, Learn More Below
Clusiv is excited to announce the first E-learning Mobile App built for and by people who are blind!
With the Clusiv mobile app, you can learn how to master email platforms with JAWS through free access to select modules from our full paid course, Professional Skills for the Modern Workforce with JAWS. These modules will make learning technology skills simple, understandable, and even fun so that you can be more equipped in your career or employment journey.
Become part of the Clusiv community today and download for free by searching Clusiv on the app store or click here to download on your iPhone.
Want to learn more about our full courses, E-learning platform and how we are helping remove barriers to employment for the blind community? Visit our website at clusiv.io or download the app for iPhone at:
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/clusiv/id6443922292.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Tidbit for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Your iPhone Has 26 New Accessibility Tools You Shouldn't Ignore (18.8% of all clicks.)
This is a handy rundown of the latest accessibility features on iOS devices:
https://ios.gadgethacks.com/how-to/your-iphone-has-26-new-accessibility-tools-you-shouldnt-ignore-0385071/
B.) 'Moonwalkers': These Strap-On Shoes Can Make You Walk Three Times Faster (7.8% of all clicks.)
Imagine being able to make a quick grocery run or walk your dog as fast as if you were on a moving walkway. An American start-up, Shift Robotics, has invented a device designed to be strapped onto your own shoes to boost your walking speed by up to 250 percent. That's right, you could be walking at up to 11 km/h, about three times faster than you normally would. The "Moonwalkers" look like skates, but they're not freewheeling — so that you don't lose your balance. Thanks to machine learning algorithms, they only move when you do: they can stop when you want, be locked to go up or down stairs, and automatically regulate their speed when you're going downhill:
https://www.euronews.com/next/2022/11/18/moonwalkers-these-strap-on-shoes-can-make-you-walk-three-times-faster
C.) Introducing The New Menus4ALL App Providing 750,000 Accessible Restaurant Menus | Stephanie Jones (4.5% of all clicks.)
Publisher: Menus4ALL is a founding sponsor of the new Access Information News publication and a long time Top Tech Tidbits supporter. They've been working on this solution for some time and we are all so very happy to finally see it come to fruition. | Stephanie Jones: My name is Stephanie Jones and I am co-founder of an accessibility solutions company, Menus4ALL. Our mission is to provide folks accessible restaurant menus. Previously we offered 50,000 US accessible menus on our website for 3 years. This Fall we beta tested with the BVI community an iPhone app, available now in the App Store. The Menus4ALL iPhone app features 750,000 fully accessible restaurant menus. 500,000 menus in the U.S. and 250,000 menus in Canada. It supports Apple's dynamic type, VoiceOver, Voice Control and common Braille displays. And it's affordable for all at $2.99 a month, with a onetime 14-day trial:
https://www.applevis.com/forum/ios-ipados/introducing-new-menus4all-app-providing-750000-accessible-restaurant-menus
D.) Reading Recipes With Siri Or Apple Watch | Jamie Teh (3.6% of all clicks.)
I'm finally learning to cook some decent food, so I need to be able to read recipes. For a while, I was reading them out of SimpleNote on my iPhone. However, I encountered several frustrations with this approach (and this applies to any notes or text app really):
https://www.jantrid.net/2021/08/24/reading-recipes-with-siri-or-apple-watch/
E.) Google Just Launched A Slew Of Helpful Search Features (3.6% of all clicks.)
Google has announced a bevy of new search features to make searching easier and more helpful. The new features center around Google Maps, Search, Lens, and Shopping. Most of the features launched November 17th 2022, except one for Google Lens and another for Google Maps. Read more here:
https://www.androidauthority.com/google-search-features-3236058/
2) Sponsorship Package Updates
There are no Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Packages currently available. If you would like to support Top Tech Tidbits by becoming a Sponsor in the future please add your name to our waiting list today by sending an email to our Publisher at the address below. We will add your name to the list, let you know what position you currently hold within it, and then notify you the moment a package becomes available. There are currently four future Sponsors on the waiting list:
publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️
3) Premium Subscriber Updates
Premium Subscribers are entitled to all back issues, anytime they sign up. All available back issues will be sent to you via email within 24 hours of purchasing your subscription. Premium Subscribers will receive their 3rd Volume of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits for October, November and December 2022 on Monday, January 2nd 2023. If you would like to receive a perfectly formatted and searchable Word Document with each of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits of the last 3 months listed neatly within it, please consider joining us today for just $1 a month:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/premium-subscribers.html
4) Ask Alexa
A.) Browse curated selections of gifts to find picks everyone on your list is sure to love.
Just say, "Alexa, give me holiday gift ideas."
B.) Keep up with the latest scores and standings from the world of soccer.
Just say, "Alexa, what's the soccer scores?"
C.) Who's going to win the soccer championship? Cast your vote and then see which teams are predicted to win.
Just say, "Alexa, open the polls."
D.) Stay up to date with soccer's big moment in Qatar when you enable a daily routine to get tournament scores, news, and more from Alexa:
Just say, "Alexa, enable the Soccer Update routine."
E.) Easily reorder the items you purchase frequently — and need to get through the season.
Just say, "Alexa, reorder coffee."
5) Fusion Power Tip: Saving Your Settings by Default
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/67.html
6) Reader Review: Magnetic Kitchen Clips
Courtesy of Award Winning Sight Loss Coach, Advocate and Author Donna Jodhan:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/134.html
7) Recording: Hosting a Zoom Meeting with JAWS: Sharing a File in the Chat | Freedom Scientific | YouTube
Want to learn how to navigate the Zoom interface more efficiently with JAWS when scheduling meetings and other events? Listen to our series, "Hosting a Zoom meeting with JAWS:"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=suG5-o6zBCM
8) From Hartgen Consultancy: Leasey Version 8 | Brian Hartgen | Tech-VI List
As a company we would like to thank those of you who have already purchased Leasey version 8 as a special offer to be released in the new year. It's good that you have faith in us. I'm going to let you in on two of the features which are almost complete. There are others which are being worked on now, but the beta testers have not seen those so it's not particularly fair to divulge what they are:
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/3046
9) Upcoming Mastodon Training Course By Hartgen Consultancy Cancelled | Brian Hartgen
We have made a decision to cancel our training course on Mastodon for next week. There is simply not enough interest in this at the moment. All our other training courses are always well attended, but as of the time of writing, people are not interested in this particular one. For various reasons this can be well understood. Should the situation change in the future, perhaps early next year, we will consider delivering the training. Naturally, the small number of people who did purchase the training course will have their money refunded on November 30th 2022:
https://www.hartgen.org/node/597
10) Launch Your Podcast Website In Minutes | No Coding Required
Publisher: This online service, called podcastpage.io, has no free plans, but comes to us by way of Blind Android Users, who wanted to let readers know that it is a great accessible solution for Podcasters / YouTubers that want a website but don't know WordPress or other website builders. You can try it free for 14 days:
https://podcastpage.io/
11) Announcing Emacspeak 57.0 — Tilden!
Emacspeak has announced immediate worldwide availability of Emacspeak 57.0 (Tilden) — a powerful audio desktop that leverages today's evolving Data, Social and Assistant-Oriented Internet cloud to enable working efficiently and effectively from anywhere:
https://emacspeak.blogspot.com/2022/11/announcing-emacspeak-570-tilden.html
12) For Users Of Joseph Lee's NVDA Add-Ons: Important: Version 22.12 Add-On Releases From Joseph Lee Will Be The Last Releases To Support Old NVDA And Windows Releases | Tech-VI List
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/3051
13) JAWS Scripts From Drew Weber: Don't Have An Applications Key On Your Keyboard? Want To Open #Notepad With A Simple Keystroke From Anywhere In The Windows OS? #JAWS Scripts To Make Life Simpler
There are a couple things that I would like to do easier. For one, I don't have an applications key on my keyboard, and you have to hold the FN key along with Shift+F10 to bring one up. It's so much easier to just hit control+shift+a. Also, you never know when you will need to take a quick note, to be able to launch Notepad from anywhere in Windows without having to go to run and type in Notepad would be amazing! With these scripts, use control+shift+/ (slash). These scripts allow you to do both of these things:
https://drewsound.com/2022/11/24/dont-have-an-applications-key-on-your-keyboard-want-to-open-notepad-with-a-simple-keystroke-from-anywhere-in-the-windows-os-jas-scripts-to-make-life-simpler/
14) How to Make Autocorrect Work the Way You Want | Wired
Even when it's wrong, it's hilarious — but you still have options:
https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-improve-autocorrect-iphone-android/
15) New Paste Keyboard Shortcut For Excel
There's a new paste keyboard shortcut coming to Excel that will be very handy when pasting into a cell, but perhaps also a little confusing:
https://office-watch.com/2022/excel-new-paste-keyboard-shortcut/
16) The Let's Go Shopping 7 Audio For Holiday 2022 Is Here! | Accessible Insights Blog
If you're reluctant to leave home this holiday weekend, thanks to a resurgence of the latest Covid variants, the crazed crowds Black Friday bargain-hunting, or the general lethargy brought about by consuming 18,000 calories on Thanksgiving, I've got a great alternative for you. Shop 'til you drop, and do it from the comfort of your couch. Below, check out the complete recordings from the recent Let's Go Shopping event, held on November 4th and 5th 2022:
https://accessibleinsights.info/blog/2022/11/23/the-lets-go-shopping-7-audio-for-holiday-2022-is-here/
17) You Can Run Mac OS on the Nintendo Wii and Turn it Into the Ultimate Gaming and Productivity Machine
With over 100 million units sold since its debut in 2006, there's no denying the popularity of the Wii, but two Nintendo consoles later, people are still finding clever ways to expand the capabilities of the console. This hack focuses more on productivity than gaming, however, by turning the Wii into a Mac:
https://gizmodo.com/you-can-run-mac-os-on-the-nintendo-wii-and-turn-it-into-1849820408
18) Check Out This Library Of Obsolete Sounds, Including Plenty Of Clips Of Old Tech
Obsolete Sounds is a new project that its creator Cities and Memory claims is “the world's biggest collection of obsolete and disappearing sounds.” It consists of over 150 sounds that are increasingly rare, ranging from sounds used in retro video games, recordings of old-fashioned transport, and plenty of mechanical sounds from outdated hardware:
https://www.theverge.com/2022/11/28/23481711/obsolete-sounds-project-cities-and-memory-modem
19) Use Gmail With A Screen Reader
We understand that this how-to article has recently been updated:
https://support.google.com/mail/answer/90559?hl=en
20) Hands-Free Listening Comes to the Audible App - Just Ask Alexa
This update allows users to access Alexa services from within the iOS Audible app:
https://www.audible.com/about/newsroom/hands-free-listening-comes-to-the-audible-app-just-ask-alexa
21) Neuralink Co-Founder Unveils Cyborg Eye Prosthesis To Cure Blindness
The co-founder of Elon Musk's brain chip startup Neuralink has unveiled a visual prosthesis for blind patients as part of a new project. The Science Eye aims to target two forms of serious blindness that currently have no cure, before eventually serving as a brain-computer interface (BCI) by transmitting information through a wearer's optic nerve:
https://www.independent.co.uk/tech/neuralink-science-eye-brain-computer-interface-b2231585.html
22) Backup Software Macrium Reflect Free Is Being Retired
The free for non-commercial use version is being retired by parent company Paramount Software UK Limited on January 1, 2024:
https://www.ghacks.net/2022/11/27/backup-software-macrium-reflect-free-is-being-retired/
23) Thunderbird Android Update: K-9 Mail 6.400 Adds Customizable Swipe Actions
In what feels like the blink of an eye, four months have passed since announcing our plans for bringing Thunderbird to Android. The path to bringing you a great email experience on Android devices begins with K-9 Mail, which joined the Thunderbird product family earlier this Summer:
https://blog.thunderbird.net/2022/11/thunderbird-android-update-k-9-mail-6-400-adds-customizable-swipe-actions/
24) Introducing The Tactile Times 2022 Accessible Online Advent Calendar!
The Tactile Times, the world's first newspaper by young braillists, for young braillists is pleased to announce that its 2022 online advent calendar is now open for business! With a festive, braille-themed surprise waiting behind every door and an interactive countdown to the 25th, it's set to be the perfect way for young braille enthusiasts all around the world to celebrate the build-up to the big day:
https://www.braillists.org/uncategorised/introducing-the-tactile-times-2022-accessible-online-advent-calendar/
25) Wonderful YouTube Video Containing Samples Of Many Old And Modern Text To Speech Engines/Humor | David Goldfield | Tech-VI List
The individual who produced this video either has too much time on their hands, too many text to speech engines or a combination of the two. This is a wonderful and light video to end the year and I personally found parts of it to be hilarious. Warning: some voices may be unexpectedly loud:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LsJS7SZdkAI
26) Hadley Headlines Newsletter For November 2022
27) Be My Eyes Newsletter for November 2022
➜ Surveys
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related survey for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-survey or locate "Survey Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Surveys | APH
Closes: Ongoing Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Podcast Episode for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-podcast-episode or locate "Podcast Episode Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Blind Abilities Episode 910: Tech Abilities: Gratitude — Guide Dogs For The Blind K9 Buddy Program, Braille Readers Are Leaders, Netflix Kick Off, Twitter Yawn, And More Tech Tidbits From A Blindness Perspective
November 22nd 2022 | The crew minus one is back again and filled with gratitude and news from around the community, industry and all parts involved. Callie, Seyoon and Jeff take a dive into the latest news and tech tidbits and give a lot of their personal experience with everything mentioned. We hope you enjoy. Topics include: Registration has opened for the annual Braille Readers Are Leaders contest! Guide Dogs for the Blind's K9 Buddy Program Expands to Include the Entire United States and Adults of Any Age
K9 Buddy Program. Emergency SOS by Satellite is activated. Netflix lets you kick freeloading users off your streaming account. Elon Musk puts Twitter's Blue Verified relaunch on hold. It's already too late to order iPhone 14 Pro in time for Christmas. Apple Reveals Black Friday Deals for 2022. Gratitude. Thanks for Listening:
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7719
2) Blind Abilities Episode 911: Wellness Wednesday: Gratitude — The Little Things Matter Too! Ways To Think About And Express Gratitude With Beth Gustin And Robin Ennis
November 23rd 2022 | In this eighth episode of Wellness Wednesday, Beth Gustin, LPC and Robin Ennis, LCSW, CPC, explore how they think about gratitude and ways to express gratitude. It's not just the big things, the little things matter, too. Show Hosts: Robin Ennis on the web at http://www.robinennislcsw.com/, Beth Gustin, LPC, NCC, EMDRIA Approved Consultant, CAGCS, PLGS at: https://transitioningthroughchange.com/. You can message Beth and Robin by calling (612) 367-6093 📱️. They look forward to hearing from you:
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7723
3) The Blind Life: Tips on Technology and Low Vision | Hadley Presents: A Conversation with the Experts
November 24th 2022 | We're joined by the creator of The Blind Life YouTube channel, Sam Seavey. Sam shares his personal journey with vision loss and advice he has for people who are newer to vision loss:
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/blind-life-tips-technology-and-low-vision
4) Mosen at Large Episode 208: Why Mushroom FM Had Gone All In On Mastodon, Dan Clarke From Focusrite Talks About Their Accessibility Initiatives, And A Demo Of The Updated Vocaster Hub
5) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 103: Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 103 Autofill Service, CSR And More
November 26th 2022 | We first announce our partnership with Podcastpage.io and the redesign of our website. We then talk about autofill services, what it is, who needs it and advantages. Then we have a new CSR episode in which we talk about notifications, blacklist and whitelist. This episode can be found on our website at https://blindandroidusers.com/ or on YouTube at:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqqll_f1sjZwTfcan607KNbW
6) Eyes on Success Episode 2248: Hello Darkness, My Old Friend
November 30th 2022 | "Hello Darkness, My Old Friend" is the story of a young man who, after losing his eyesight to disease, finds the power to break through the darkness and fulfill his vision for a life of distinguished public service. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with author Sanford Greenberg about his journey and how enduring friendships made a difference in his life.:
http://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show_notes_2248.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Webinar, Training Course or Event for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-event or locate "Webinar / Training Course Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Using JAWS Inspect and JAWS Connect for Testing | TPGi
December 1st 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Presenter: Charlie Pike, Platform Success Lead Using transcripts of JAWS speech, you can quickly pinpoint accessibility and usability issues. This demonstration will walk you through some simple tests using both JAWS Inspect and JAWS Connect, explaining how these tools can be integrated into your test processes. Register today:.
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-december-1-at-12pm-et-using-jaws-inspect-and-jaws-connect-for-testing/
2) Blind Health Expo | The Accessible Pharmacy
December 2nd 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | The Accessible Pharmacy Blind Health Expo will be the largest virtual expo of healthcare information, products, services, and medication for individuals who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision. Join thousands of other attendees and register now for free!
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/blind-health-expo/
3) Microsoft Accessibility for Nonprofits Webinar
December 6th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | If you are part of a disability nonprofit organization, please join us for our Microsoft Accessibility for Nonprofits Webinar on Tuesday, December 6th. In this introductory session, you will learn about: Accessibility Nonprofit Tech Accelerator 2023 grant program that provides selected organizations with technology grants and dedicated specialist staff to support your mission. Access to Microsoft Philanthropies grants and discounts across our nonprofit cloud products including Azure, Dynamics 365, and Microsoft 365 for all registered 501 c3 organizations. Microsoft Accessibility team will share our commitment to disability nonprofit partners, our work on AI for Accessibility & Innovation. Register today for the Microsoft Accessibility for Nonprofit Webinar:
https://learning.eventbuilder.com/event/67484
4) The Current Legal Landscape for Digital Assets Accessibility Risks and How to Provide an Accessible Experience for Retail Customers
December 6th 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenter: Matt Ater, Lori Sommerfield, and Kim Phan
Join Matt Ater of Vispero, along with Lori Sommerfield & Kim Phan, partners at Troutman Pepper, for a discussion concerning the current state of legal risks for accessibility non-compliance and practical tips for making your retail business digital assets accessible for people with disabilities. We will discuss the current state of website and mobile application accessibility litigation, as well as the increasing threat of enforcement of the Americans with Disabilities Act for digital assets by the U.S. Department of Justice under the Biden administration. Learn how to mitigate legal risks by meeting digital accessibility requirements and creating a usable and accessible retail experience. Register today:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-december-6-at-11am-et-the-current-legal-landscape-for-digital-assets-accessibility-risks-and-how-to-provide-an-accessible-experience-for-retail-customers/
5) What's New With JAWS, ZoomText And Fusion In 2023 | APH ConnectCenter
December 6th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion 2023 contain several new features and enhancements that increase productivity at school, work, and play. Join us for a live webinar to learn about these features and see some of them in action:
https://aph.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=f36877787e431c3edc0020ff5&id=ee03fc7f7f&e=55c3c23403
6) ONYX Family of Magnifiers: Portable & Powerful (ACVREP CE Approved, Assistive Technology Webinar) | Access Ingenuity
December 7th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | The ONYX family of video magnifiers combines ease of use with powerful yet portable features to help people retain their independent lifestyle - reading, writing, viewing photographs, and engaging in hobbies. Did you know there are three different ONYX models? The ONYX Deskset and ONYX OCR offer larger screens and can adapt to multiple environments and tasks for productivity at school, work, and home. Modern camera technology and HD displays provide a clear, crisp picture with a wide range of magnification and color-coded controls. The ONYX Pro takes portability to the next level by combining it with the Surface 7 tablet to provide the ultimate tool for mobile magnification and reading tasks. During this webinar, we discuss the features and benefits all the ONYX models can give in specific situations. Join Ian Ramos and Joe McDaniel from Vispero as they dive deep into these powerful tools to help those challenged by vision loss. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: Features of all ONYX models. How to determine which model fits your needs best. How adding speech capability can take you further. Benefits of portable, powerful visual tools. Meeting ID: 821 2886 0126 | Passcode: 792304 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,82128860126#,,,,*792304# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose). Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82128860126?pwd=UHBhYXBzTHVGb0tCaktXZVc1anQ0dz09#success
7) 2022 Sight Tech Global — Shaping New Technologies to Create a More Accessible World for People with Blindness and Visual Impairments
December 7th 2022 and December 8th 2022 | Sponsored by Google, APH, Amazon, Humanware, Microsoft, Fable, LinkedIn, and Waymo, 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. Register for free:
https://sighttechglobal.com/
8) 2022 Digital Accessibility Legal Update with Lainey Feingold | Free Webinar
December 8th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | What We'll Cover: A lot has happened in the digital accessibility legal space this year — have you kept up? Most recently, a new digital accessibility law was introduced in the United States Congress. If the law passes as written, it will result in digital accessibility regulations for both websites and software applications. Commercial providers who design, develop, and modify certain websites or applications are part of the proposed legislation. Speaker: Lainey Feingold. Lainey Feingold is a disability rights lawyer who has worked in the digital accessibility space since 1995. She is also an author and international speaker. Lainey, along with her blind clients and co-counsel, helped negotiate the first web accessibility agreement in the United States more than twenty years ago. She has worked with dozens of companies on their accessibility initiatives since that time. Lainey is the author of Structured Negotiation: A Winning Alternative to Lawsuits. Her book shares stories and strategies from twenty-five years of collaborations and relationship-building to help create an inclusive digital world. Register here:
https://go.3playmedia.com/wbnr-12-08-2022-lainey
9) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
December 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
10) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 3: Creative Manual Activities for Christmas | APH
December 12th 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Christmas is a great time to create crafts. Let's share amazing and fun tactile ideas adapted to visually impaired children:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
11) Basics of Accessibility Testing | TPGi
December 13th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Presenter: Aaron Farber, Senior Accessibility Platform Consultant. Accessibility testing is a critical step in delivering a modern online experience. This webinar goes beyond testing checklists to answer the fundamental questions people have when they start testing for web accessibility. For accessibility testing to be effective, organizations must understand what makes a digital experience equal. We'll cover web accessibility, the role and structure of Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), and how to quantify the risk associated with a guideline. Additionally, we'll discuss the following: How to set the scope for accessibility testing and feel confident you are covering the "right parts" of a website/web application. We'll document mouse-only, keyboard-only, and assistive technology testing plans. We'll delve into how web pages expose "semantics" and the tools to understand if your site is properly conveying its meaning to assistive technology. How to get expert support beyond your team to be sure that your accessibility testing results are accurate and more! Learn how to use the tools, access resources, and receive clear steps to perform a full-scale WCAG audit. Register:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-december-13-at-12pm-et-basics-of-accessibility-testing/
12) Partner Showcase: Audiojack's Newest O+M Experience | APH ConnectCenter
December 13th 2022 | 1PM PT, 2PM MT, 3PM CT, 4PM ET, 8PM GMT | The APH Partner Showcase for December features Audiojack and its creator David Tobin. Listen live to the latest O&M Audiojack in the Life category, located in the mobile app and on the website. Then, engage with other Audience members and David as you discuss the newest Audiojack. The APH Partner Showcase is part of Access Academy, but does not offer ACVREP credits. The Showcase is strictly informational/promotional, and highlights some of APH's partner vendors in the field, and their product(s):
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_GnG1mrKsT0SX60sz1MDs4g
13) Creating Accessible Promotional Materials (Digital Accessibility Webinar) | Access Ingenuity
December 14th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | As a document author, learn about choosing colors, selecting images, and laying out your brochure, poster, or flyer in an engaging yet accessible way. Join Rachel Reeves in reviewing the most accessible way to create PDF Promotional Material. Learning Outcomes: Review color contrast requirements. Address mistakes commonly made in the Layout/Reading Order of one-page posters or flyers. Understand obstacles commonly encountered if using authoring tools such as Canva or Illustrator. Analyze poor templates that have images and fonts that make PDF remediation difficult. Meeting ID: 865 1628 1737 | Passcode: 967492 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,86516281737#,,,,*967492# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86516281737?pwd=NTZDdzRmZUdieFBTWnRiMzFsQVhHdz09#success
14) Training Course: Catching Up with JAWS Chapter 4 for JAWS 2022 and 2023 | Hartgen Consultancy
December 14th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | Catching Up with JAWS is priced £35 which is approximately 40 American dollars. Now is your chance to get some high quality training on some of the latest features within the screen-reader JAWS for Windows which have been introduced over the past two years. This follows on from our previous popular training courses on this subject. These training courses are still popular and people are purchasing the older volumes in the series even today:
https://www.hartgen.org/catchup4
15) Career Conversations with Joe Strechay | APH ConnectCenter
December 15th 2022 | 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 12AM on 12/16 GMT | Join us and meet Joe Strechay, a blind Film and Television Producer. No stranger to CareerConnect, Joe is back with us sharing his breakthrough into Television and film. Listen in and hear how as a blind professional, Joe works directly on set with actors and actresses who themselves are blind. From television and film sets both domestic and international, we will spend the hour engaging on this fascinating career:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_m0H5e0hpTeOLEeCIl-SH3g
16) ZoomText, JAWS & Fusion: Latest Features (Assistive Technology Webinar) | Access Ingenuity
December 21st 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | It's that time again. Not only is it the holidays but also the time when there are important updates for ZoomText, JAWS, and Fusion. Join Ian Ramos and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity to explore what's new in the 2023 updates and some features within the past few years. Learning Outcomes: Briefly explain the differences between ZoomText, JAWS, and Fusion. Compare the different licenses and how you can find out if you are eligible for the latest updates. Explore new 2023 features such as Tethered View, Smart Glance, Notification History improvements, New Tables Only option for Smart Navigation, etc. Review recent features, including Docking the Quick Access Bar, Voice Assistant, Sound Splitter, New Vocalizer Expressive Voices and Languages, and more. Meeting ID: 827 9977 1867 | Passcode: 853407 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,82799771867#,,,,*853407# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82799771867?pwd=VVNHeWhjVVVLc1JDUUtSMlllMnlQZz09#success
17) Ask The Advocate | APH ConnectCenter
December 28th 2022 | 5:30PM PT, 6:30PM MT, 7:30PM CT, 8:30PM ET, 1:30AM GMT on 12/29 | Answering questions families have to better understand the processes, procedures and parent rights in a 504/IEP. When parents are better informed they will be better equipped to navigate and negotiate successful student outcomes:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_rSJUAYVjTfCA34Ibi8gyuQ
18) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 4: Braille Around the World | APH
January 4th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Let's celebrate Louis Braille's Day and explore different braille codes around the world:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
19) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 5: School Aged Numeracy | APH
February 1st 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Using LEGO Braille Bricks to do math: let's discover some of the many uses of these little bricks to develop numerical and geometry skills, understand symmetry, and much more:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
20) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 6: Daily Living Activities | APH
March 6th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Let's explore daily-living activities using LEGO Braille Bricks and share our best practices, experiences, tips:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
21) 2023 3rd Annual Axe-Con | Building Accessible Experiences | The World's Largest Digital Accessibility Conference
March 15th 2022 and March 16th 2023 | Deque Systems, the trusted leader in digital accessibility, has announced the third annual axe-con conference will return on March 15-16th, 2023. With the success of axe-con over the past two years, Deque will continue to host the conference as a free virtual event again next year. 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:
https://www.deque.com/blog/save-the-date-for-axe-con-2023/
22) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 7: Music | APH
April 5th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Let's discover together how to make music with these famous bricks! Come and share your creative ideas:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
23) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 8: STEM | APH
May 3rd 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Have you ever thought of doing science, computing, or technology with LEGO Braille Bricks? Expert guests will join us for an amazing session:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
24) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 9: Orientation & Mobility | APH
June 7th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | LEGO bricks to build plans, visualize routes, it's not new! But with LEGO Braille Bricks you can also create labels, add letters, words... Then it becomes really great:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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
✍ List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. Fill out this short form to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-buy-sell-trade or learn more on the Top Tech Tidbits website.
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: APH ConnectCenter
➜ 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/
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Combine Learning And Gaming For A Fun Braille Adventure With Polly!
APH and Thinkerbell Labs are excited to introduce Polly, complete with customizable UEB lessons, songs, games, and stories! Join our waiting list to know when Polly is available:
https://www.aph.org/polly-wait-list/
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
➜ We're Insane To Do This, But It's The Holidays!
We are offering to the first 5 customers for this deal a combination of safety and security; our 60 inch locking telescopic titanium cane and a leather RFID waist pack with built in 14 inch cane holster (it's a CCW gun case that's also great with a cane.) This 9 section cane telescopes to 11 inches and you can lock individual sections to make it shorter (54 48.) The waist pack is 17.5 inches long by 7 inches deep and with back to front expansion of 4 inches. It holds a lot. The price is $100, incl. shipping. This is $25 off retail. We have 5 of these available. To order call either Barry (617) 969-7500 📱️ or Kae (781) 286-1696 📱️ or email barry.scheur@gmail.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, affordable, 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
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: That Real Blind Tech Show
➜ That Real Blind Tech Show Episode 96: We Got More Resolutions, ACB Style!
It's a fully packed That Real Blind Tech show lair. Join us as we recap this year's ACB Resolutions. We chime in with all of our opinions about this year's resolutions, and as usual some hilarity ensues. You will not want to miss both AirPods issues that take place on this episode. We are adding do not listen to That Real Blind Tech show on the bus as we are not responsible for the stares you will receive when laughing or cackling like a lunatic!
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-96-we-got-more-resolutions-acb-style
Sponsor Since: August 11th 2022
Website: https://blindtechshow.com/ 🌐
Email: ThatRealBlindTechShow@gmail.com 📧️
Social: Facebook Page | Facebook Group | Twitter
Listen: Apple Podcasts | Audible | Google Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube
Hosts: Brian Fischler | Ed Plumacher | Allison Meloy | Jenine Stanley
Goals: We want to educate you on the latest tech for the blindness community. You'll learn what is worth keeping and what you need to return. Our goals are: To inform, inspire and educate our audience. Feature guests and products that bring you value. Continuously improve and deliver the best content.
About: A podcast discussing the good & bad of assistive technology for the low vision & totally blind. No longer focused on just Apple VoiceOver technology. That Real Blind Tech show covers all the fantastic talking tech and gadgets out there for the low vision and blindness community. Common topics include Apple's VoiceOver, JAWS, Microsoft Narrator, NVDA, Amazon Alexa and VoiceView, Google Assistant and Android. Basically, if a device can talk to you, we are going to be talking about it. That Real Blind Tech Show will not only educate you, but it will also make you laugh. Listeners are encouraged to not use treadmills or drink hot coffee while listening to our show, or accidents can and have occurred. Dishes have been broken while listening to That Real Blind Tech Show, and while we are responsible for the laughs, we are in no way responsible for the injuries or bills that pile up. Remember to keep it Real and also don't believe anything you hear on That Real Blind Tech Show.
Home | Episodes | Blog | Contact | Subscribe
Sponsor: Aira
➜ Webinar: Discovering Aira and Content Creation | October 25th 2022 at 2:00 PM ET
Creating content for the ever-expanding media world is a growing profession. During #NDEAM2022 we want to spotlight how blind and low vision people are working in this space. Whether for income or personal brand, these creators integrate visual interpreting into their processes. We'll also get advice from Aira Agents on how to make the most of visual interpreting when creating your content. Join us Tuesday, October 25th 2022 at 2:00pm Eastern time. Register at:
https://aira.zoom.us/webinar/register/9116639399059/WN_g9O7k3RaR7mYYT1ODnm0cA
Sponsor Since: August 4th 2022
Website: https://aira.io/ 🌐
Download the App: Apple App Store | Google Play Store
Plans and Pricing: https://aira.io/pricing/
Phone: NA: +1.800.835.1934 📱️ | AU: +1.800.765.096 📱️ | UK: +0.800.046.5668 📱️ | NZ: +1.800.425.451 📱️
Text Message: NA: +1.858.242.4457 📲 | AU: +61.488.839.767 📲 | UK: +44.149.320.2474 📲
Email: support@aira.io 📧️
Social: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
About: Aira's mission is to remove barriers and make the world more accessible with visual interpreting.
We provide a live, human-to-human professional assistance service, an accommodation or productivity tool, that enhances independence by delivering on-demand, skilled and reliable visual interpreting for just about any task. Using the powerful combination of a camera and the Aira app on someone's device of 'choice', a professionally-trained agent will assist by visually interpreting what is in the camera's view or on screen, from describing to reading, from explaining to navigating - just about anything, safely and securely. Aira supports a growing range of devices including smart and tactile button phones, desktop computers and soon, wearables.
Whether you are involved in the work of business, the work of school or the work of life, Aira enhances everyday efficiency, engagement, and independence. Used by employees and customers of hundreds of organizations including airports, banks, the largest software companies, financial firms, retailers and universities, we invite you to join the community, access the Aira app today and try it for free.
https://aira.io/download-and-try-it/
Step One: Subscribe and Download. Pick the plan that lets you explore on your terms and on your time, sign up in a few minutes, and download the Aira app to your smartphone. Plans shown are for the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Add or cancel at any time.
Step Two: Connect with an Aira Agent. On the first call, connect with one of our certified, specially-trained Agents and learn how everything works.
Step Three: Real-time Assistance. At the touch of a button, Aira delivers instant access to visual information, when and where you want it.
Sponsor: Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
➜ Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore: Touch Tomorrow in Today's Products
Serving blind people since 1999, we're a family-owned, forward-thinking company offering both tried-and-true and exciting new products for blind and low vision consumers. We design and carry self-voicing educational software, Braille supplies, talking gadgets, adapted household items, tactile card and board games, audible toys and gift ideas. Passionate about innovation, we've also created dozens of products from scratch when a suitable solution did not exist. Shop online at http://www.braillebookstore.com/ and enjoy fast, free shipping.
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: http://www.braillebookstore.com/ 🌐
Phone (Toll Free): (800) 987-1231 📱️
Fax (Toll Free): (800) 985-1231 ░
Email: Sales@BrailleBookstore.com 📧️
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time.
About: Welcome to Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore. We have been supplying products to blind people and their families since 1999. We offer thousands of Braille books, toys, games, kitchen aids, and talking products. We have unbeatable prices, fast, free shipping, and great customer service! We have tons of Braille books and cool products to choose from; so grab a cup of coffee, relax, and we'll give you a quick tour:
Products:
➜ Timekeeping
➜ Housewares
➜ On The Go
➜ Low Vision Products
➜ Toys and Games
➜ Gift Shop
➜ Braille Workshop
➜ Braille Bookstore
➜ Greeting Cards
➜ Copy Center
➜ Computer Lab
➜ Popular Products
➜ New Products
If you need some fresh ideas or have questions, you can also check out our Shopping Guides.
Sponsor: Fable
➜ Free and Accessible Training for the Tech Sector
Fable Pathways helps you gain the skills that you need to work in the tech sector with a free, accessible, and on-demand program. Learn from industry leaders with disabilities to take your career to the next level, like Kelly Ford, Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, who introduces GitHub and VS Code using a screen reader. Spend less time and energy trying to access courses with your assistive technology and focus on the content that matters to you, with Fable Pathways' accessible platform. Sign up today!
https://www.fablepathways.com/
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: https://fablepathways.com/ 🌐
Email: community@makeitfable.com 📧️
Phone: (888) 212-3532 📱️ Extension 810
About: Just like curb cuts help everyone get on and off sidewalks, designing digital products with accessibility in mind helps make the internet more accessible for everyone. Fable is an accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities. Fable connects people with disabilities to accessibility managers, user researchers, designers, and developers to build incredible and accessible user experiences.
Opportunities:
➜ Fable Pathways: Fable Pathways is a free skill development program for people with disabilities interested in working in the tech sector. Sign up to take your career to the next level. Courses include "Getting started in web development" taught by Kelly Ford, a screen reader user, and Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, and "Becoming a manager" taught by Fable's Head of Accessibility Innovation, Kate Kalcevich. Instructors are subject matter experts in their fields and have lived experience with disability. Pathways courses are free, self-paced and assistive-technology-friendly. Sign up now at https://fablepathways.com/.
➜ Fable's Community of Accessibility Testers: Work from home to contribute to real changes in digital accessibility and make the internet a more accessible place for everyone. Ever leave a website because it was too hard to navigate? Because it was missing button labels? Because it didn't respond to voice commands? Us too. Our community of testers who use assistive technologies work from home and contribute to real changes in digital accessibility with recognizable brands. Earn money to share your feedback on websites and apps of your favorite brands and work with companies that care. No experience required and no resume required. Fable is looking for assistive technology users in the USA and Canada to work the hours that they want, from the comfort of their own homes. Learn more at https://fablepathways.com/community/.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ Dolphin Friends Program
If you work for a non-profit, charity or society that provides services to people with visual impairments, we invite you to take part in our Dolphin Friends Program. Dolphin will outfit your center with assistive technology solutions that can benefit your clients who need to remain independent, are trying to sharpen their technology skills for employment and more. Learn more about becoming a Dolphin Friend:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/join-dolphin-friends
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Sponsor: Clusiv
➜ Looking For Blind Job-Seekers Wanting To Advance Their Salaries, Careers And Digital Accessibility For The Blind
Are you interested in learning new tech skills and working remotely while earning a competitive salary? At Clusiv.io we have created the world's first digitally accessible e-Learning platform built by the blind, and built for the blind. Visit the link provided and request Clusiv through your Vocational Rehab counselor for lifetime access to our e-Learning platform with courses such as Business Applications, JAWS, and more:
https://clusiv.io/
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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 from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Control the climate of your home independently! The VIP 3000 is a universal heating — cooling talking thermostat This accessible digital thermostat is specifically designed to offer audio playback of indoor temperature, temperature settings and programming instructions so blind and visually impaired users can independently & precisely manage their indoor comfort. Don't over pay. Read more at:
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 every day 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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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 Next Generation in Accessibility
Need to quickly access a distant computer with minimal fuss? Need to quickly convert image documents into readable text? Today's students and working professionals demand more of their technology. Employers expect more of their workforce. Pneuma Solutions is bridging the gap using the best in machine learning to connect you to your environment when you need it, how you need it. Give us a try, and experience accessibility on a whole new level:
https://pneumasolutions.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
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 Android TM 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.
Your Name Here
0 of 18 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are currently 0 of 18 packages available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, November 24, 2022 - Volume 886
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.
Subscribers: 7,128 Opt-In Subscribers were sent this issue via email. 148 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Find All Your Talking, Braille and Tactile Gifts at Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
Christmas Eve is just one month away. Yikes! Not to worry; the Braille Superstore's crew of friendly elves is here with loads of holiday cheer. We have dozens of new products, gadgets and gifts for all the blind and low vision people on your list. Recording greeting cards, vibrating clocks, Braille pocket watches, audio Bibles, talking thermometers, Braille jewelry, wooden plaques, adapted card and board games ... The list goes on and on.
Our selection of Holiday Highlights presents our bestselling gift ideas, fun and practical stocking-stuffers, and favorite Christmas books for kids and adults.
Parents and teachers - check out our Teachers Corner for tactile craft supplies, innovative Braille learning and writing gear, educational games and boredom busters.
Visit our Gifts for Grandparents showcase for thoughtful, practical or useful gifts for those seniors in your life.
Order soon to enjoy free delivery by December 24th. Our online store is fully accessible - and just plain fun!
http://www.braillebookstore.com/
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Tidbit for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Your iPhone Has 26 New Accessibility Tools You Shouldn't Ignore (16.4% of all clicks.)
This is a handy rundown of the latest accessibility features on iOS devices:
https://ios.gadgethacks.com/how-to/your-iphone-has-26-new-accessibility-tools-you-shouldnt-ignore-0385071/
B.) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: Don't Forget About the F6 Key (10.5% of all clicks.)
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/133.html
C.) Overview Of The 6dot Braille Label Maker | Easterseals Crossroads (5.5% of all clicks.)
If you're looking for an easy-to-use Braille label maker, check out the 6dot Braille Label Maker from Logan Tech. This portable Braille label maker has a built-in Braille keyboard that supports all grades of Braille in "virtually every language:"
https://www.eastersealstech.com/2022/10/27/6dot-braille-label-maker/
D.) The 6 Best Speech-to-Text Apps for Note-Taking (4.7% of all clicks.)
Speech-to-text apps are the best way to take notes on the go. They can also save you time. Here are some of the best ones to use:
https://www.makeuseof.com/best-speech-to-text-apps/
E.) A Beginner's Guide To Mastodon, The Open Source Twitter Alternative (4.3% of all clicks.)
As Twitter users fret over the direction that new owner Elon Musk is taking the company, masses of users have hopped over to Mastodon, an open source Twitter alternative. Since October 27, when the SpaceX and Tesla CEO formalized his Twitter takeover, Mastodon has gained nearly 500,000 new users, effectively doubling its user base. But what is Mastodon, and should we all be getting our accounts set up?:
https://techcrunch.com/2022/11/08/what-is-mastodon/
2) Sponsorship Package Updates
There are no Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Packages currently available. If you would like to support Top Tech Tidbits by becoming a Sponsor in the future please add your name to our waiting list today by sending an email to our Publisher at the address below. We will add your name to the list, let you know what position you currently hold within it, and then notify you the moment a package becomes available. There are currently four future Sponsors on the waiting list:
publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️
3) Premium Subscriber Updates
Premium Subscribers are entitled to all back issues, anytime they sign up. All available back issues will be sent to you via email within 24 hours of purchasing your subscription. Premium Subscribers will receive their 3rd Volume of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits for October, November and December 2022 on Monday, January 2nd 2023. If you would like to receive a perfectly formatted and searchable Word Document with each of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits of the last 3 months listed neatly within it, please consider joining us today for just $1 a month:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/premium-subscribers.html
4) The Fediverse Is Happening. Here's How To Take Part. A Guide To Getting Started With Mastodon | Ben Werdmuller
I've been trying to explain what the fediverse actually is in a few different contexts. One thing that's revealed to me is that there's a whole generation of internet users whose entire model of how things work is based on the centralized, VC-funded service model. For them, a service is tied to a domain name and run by a company, and that's it — even though they likely use email every day. It's a surprising (to me) way that the prevailing business models for the web have changed the conversation:
https://benwerd.medium.com/the-fediverse-is-happening-heres-how-to-take-part-11c42f5ebefd
5) We Joined Mastodon. Here's What We Learned About Privacy and Security | The Markup
As Elon Musk sends Twitter into chaos, we're sharing what we picked up about Mastodon as we selected a server:
https://themarkup.org/the-breakdown/2022/11/21/we-joined-mastodon-heres-what-we-learned-about-privacy-and-security
6) New Mastodon Instance For Professionals and Consumers Interested in Audio Description
Editor: Scott Blanks has launched a Mastodon subscription instance for audio description. This is a space where professionals and fans can come together to learn, advocate, and work together towards the goal of quality AD in all environs. | Welcome to everyone with a connection to Audio Description. This server is a place to learn, advocate, network, and strive for great AD everywhere:
https://adforward.org/explore
7) Introducing The New Menus4ALL App Providing 750,000 Accessible Restaurant Menus | Stephanie Jones
Publisher: Menus4ALL is a founding sponsor of the new Access Information News publication and a long time Top Tech Tidbits supporter. They've been working on this solution for some time and we are all so very happy to finally see it come to fruition. | Stephanie Jones: My name is Stephanie Jones and I am co-founder of an accessibility solutions company, Menus4ALL. Our mission is to provide folks accessible restaurant menus. Previously we offered 50,000 US accessible menus on our website for 3 years. This Fall we beta tested with the BVI community an iPhone app, available now in the App Store. The Menus4ALL iPhone app features 750,000 fully accessible restaurant menus. 500,000 menus in the U.S. and 250,000 menus in Canada. It supports Apple's dynamic type, VoiceOver, Voice Control and common Braille displays. And it's affordable for all at $2.99 a month, with a onetime 14-day trial:
https://www.applevis.com/forum/ios-ipados/introducing-new-menus4all-app-providing-750000-accessible-restaurant-menus
8) Introducing Sign Language View for Teams Meetings | Microsoft
Today we are pleased to announce sign language view, a new meeting experience in Microsoft Teams that helps signers — people who are Deaf/hard of hearing, interpreters, and others who use sign language — keep one another prioritized on center stage, in a consistent location, throughout every meeting:
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/microsoft-teams-blog/introducing-sign-language-view-for-teams-meetings/ba-p/3671257
9) 'Moonwalkers': These Strap-On Shoes Can Make You Walk Three Times Faster
Imagine being able to make a quick grocery run or walk your dog as fast as if you were on a moving walkway. An American start-up, Shift Robotics, has invented a device designed to be strapped onto your own shoes to boost your walking speed by up to 250 percent. That's right, you could be walking at up to 11 km/h, about three times faster than you normally would. The "Moonwalkers" look like skates, but they're not freewheeling — so that you don't lose your balance. Thanks to machine learning algorithms, they only move when you do: they can stop when you want, be locked to go up or down stairs, and automatically regulate their speed when you're going downhill:
https://www.euronews.com/next/2022/11/18/moonwalkers-these-strap-on-shoes-can-make-you-walk-three-times-faster
10) This App Gives Your Screenshots Superpowers. That's Just The Beginning | Wired
Publisher: While this technology is still under development, and is not, strictly speaking, directly related to accessibility right now, I believe that all Tidbits readers will immediately recognize the power that this technology could bring to the blind and vision impaired community. | Wired: What if screenshots were linkable, or portals to the playlist, the mapped location, the shopping page you wanted to share? That's the reality Alex Mahedy has been trying to create for the past few years. The twentysomething New York City — based entrepreneur has even convinced some noteworthy venture capitalists to fund the idea. He just launched a new app for sharing link-enabled screenshots, called Pager. Here's how Pager works, and this may be its biggest barrier at the start: It's a separate mobile app that's currently only available through TestFlight, an Apple-owned app testing platform. This also means it's only available on iOS right now. The app first collates the existing screenshots in your camera roll. (It actually asks for permission to access all photos, a request that typically makes privacy advocates cringe, but Pager claims it's touching only your screenshots. And iOS now lets people select which photos they want to share with other apps:)
https://www.wired.com/story/pager-link-screenshots/
11) The Windows Subsystem For Linux In The Microsoft Store Is Now Generally Available
This will make updating Windows Subsystem for Linux much easier. It also brings GUI app support to Windows 10:
https://devblogs.microsoft.com/commandline/the-windows-subsystem-for-linux-in-the-microsoft-store-is-now-generally-available-on-windows-10-and-11/
12) Opening Windows — Learning to Use the Tools Built Into The Windows Operating System
Staying with the Windows theme, Brian Hartgen has completed his course on using tools built into the Windows operating system. The archive is now available for purchase. All topics are displayed here:
https://www.hartgen.org/openingwindows
13) TechVision Seeking Individuals Skilled at Visual Studio and Coding | Dr. Denise M. Robinson
Our company is looking to add more instructors, specifically those using Visual Studio and general coding. If anyone is interested in a position with us, please let us know and we will get an interview setup with you. Schedule is flexible and you work from home using Zoom to connect to students. Pay is also very competitive. Call (425) 220-6935 📱️ or visit:
https://yourtechvision.com/
14) Microsoft Windows 11 Keystroke Compendium | National Braille Press | $10 - $12.50
Comprehensive collection of keystrokes available in Windows 11, containing keystrokes which are either available anywhere in Windows or are used in many different apps, as well as application-specific keystrokes:
https://www.nbp.org/ic/nbp/WIN11-REF.html
15) Updated JAWS Scripts for Unigram by Doug Lee
https://www.dlee.org/unigram/#hist
16) Audible Now Works Independently On Apple Watch With Streaming And One-Tap Downloads
Amazon's Audible has delivered a valuable update for Apple Watch users. Shifting away from the reliance on a connection with your iPhone, the popular audiobook app now works independently on Apple Watch for both streaming and downloading content:
https://9to5mac.com/2022/11/17/audible-apple-watch-streaming/
17) For Those Interested In The Mac: Mac4TheBlind Tutorial Videos Available On The SturItUp YouTube Channel
Publisher: Just a quick reminder that John Panarese was one of the founding sponsors of the Top Tech Tidbits Publication, and is an incredibly knowledgeable and sought-after accessibility instructor. | SturItUp: Hello. John Panarese from Mac4TheBlind has graciously allowed me to post his free audio tutorials on the SturItUp YouTube page. It has its own playlist, and nothing but free audio Tutorials from John Panarese and Mac4TheBlind will be found on this play list. Find it here and save it to your favorites, sign up for alerts for it, however it works on YouTube. Currently, only 3 tutorials are there, but as John and I gather the ones he wants posted, they will be there. Enjoy. They can be found here:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOefEEZcxAG8VxmDYMkETHV1X7sXN64qo
18) NV Access In-Process For November 19th 2022
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-19th-november/
19) ARX Vision Headset — Intro And Hardware First Impressions | YouTube | David Nason
The ARX Vision headset is a wearable device aimed at helping blind and visually impaired people to interact with the visual world around them using a camera and AI. This video gives a quick intro and takes a first look at the hardware. If you have any questions please comment. This is a review unit which has been loaned to me by ARX:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RcjAFo0Kbqo
20) How To Use Emergency SOS Via Satellite Service On iPhone 14
Apple has launched its Emergency SOS via satellite service for iPhone 14 users in the US and Canada, with the feature coming to France, Germany, Ireland, and the UK in December 2022:
https://coolblindtech.com/how-to-use-emergency-sos-via-satellite-service-on-iphone-14/
21) Your Google Searches Are Quietly Evolving. Here's What's Next | Wired
We went behind the scenes to make sense of Shopping, Ads, and the changes that will shape your internet searches:
https://www.wired.com/story/google-search-shopping-ads-malware-trends/
22) Google Just Launched A Slew Of Helpful Search Features
Google has announced a bevy of new search features to make searching easier and more helpful. The new features center around Google Maps, Search, Lens, and Shopping. Most of the features launched November 17th 2022, except one for Google Lens and another for Google Maps. Read more here:
https://www.androidauthority.com/google-search-features-3236058/
23) Your iPhone Has 26 New Accessibility Tools You Shouldn't Ignore | Gadget Hacks
While it's not usually the first thing everyone looks at after installing a new iOS software update, I'd give the new accessibility features on your iPhone priority attention because there are some highly valuable tools that even users without disabilities can enjoy:
https://ios.gadgethacks.com/how-to/your-iphone-has-26-new-accessibility-tools-you-shouldnt-ignore-0385071/
24) 5 Anti-Spam Software For Microsoft Outlook That'll Protect Your Inbox
Microsoft is losing the war to spam. If your Outlook inbox is under spam siege, check out the top anti-spam tools for Outlook:
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/anti-spam-filters-microsoft-outlook/
25) GetBraille.com Offers Customizable Braille Holiday Messages | Mark Cadigan | GetBraille.com
This Holiday season GetBraille.com is offering customizable braille holiday messages. We offer both clear plastic braille overlays that can be cut to size and adhered to traditional commercial holiday greeting cards and personalized holiday letters/notes embossed on standard 8.5 by 11 braille paper. For braille overlays: Email us the greeting card language plus any personal note, provide the card dimensions, and specify what part of the card the text corresponds to E.G. text on the front or text inside the card. We will mail the completed overlays to you in UEB grade 1 or 2 depending on your preference. For personalized holiday letters/notes: Email us the text and specify if you want it in UEB Grade 1 or 2. Each overlay or card will cost $10. We offer second business day turn around if your order is placed by noon Eastern. We can ship via free matter for the blind or with tracking for an additional $5. We accept all major credit cards. Reach out to us via email at: mark@getbraille.com 📧️ for all your braille needs or visit us online at:
https://getbraille.com/
26) Spotify Wants To Make Your Podcast Sound Better With New One-Tap Feature For Anchor
Spotify has pushed more and more into podcasting in recent years, including its acquisition of the podcast creation platform Anchor in 2019. Now, Spotify is rolling out an update to the dedicated Anchor app on iPhone with a new feature it says can drastically improve the audio of your podcast with just one click:
https://9to5mac.com/2022/11/21/anchor-podcast-audio-feature-spotify/
27) Reading Recipes With Siri Or Apple Watch | Jamie Teh
I'm finally learning to cook some decent food, so I need to be able to read recipes. For a while, I was reading them out of SimpleNote on my iPhone. However, I encountered several frustrations with this approach (and this applies to any notes or text app really):
https://www.jantrid.net/2021/08/24/reading-recipes-with-siri-or-apple-watch/
28) 100 Days Of SwiftUI, My Foray Into Understanding A Bit More About How iOS Works | The Thoughts and Ramblings of Steve
Ever since I was able to accessibly use an iOS device, an iPhone 3GS, I've imagined how awesome it would be to be able to develop my own applications. That excitement was very short lived though as I soon became aware of just how complicated developing an application really is. It's a very involved process — or so it seemed to me — and for someone who hasn't written any code since C ++ was the talk of the town, it seemed like an impossibility. I wrongly assumed this was especially true for iOS because apps are often very visual and interactive and I just couldn't imagine how I'd tackle that without vision. And so I quickly decided that iOS app development was just not for me. Fast-forward quite a few years and Apple releases Swift and SwiftUI which, at the risk of over simplifying things quite a bit, is a more powerful and natural programming language for application development:
https://steves.life/2022/11/22/100-days-of-swiftui-my-foray-into-understanding-a-bit-more-about-how-ios-works/
➜ Surveys
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related survey for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-survey or locate "Survey Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Surveys | APH
Closes: Ongoing Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
2) Survey | PDF User Survey
Closes: November 30th 2022 Equidox Software Company provides PDF accessibility software and services and is conducting a survey of blind and low-vision adults who are assistive technology users. The goal is to gain information about the real experience of people who use assistive technology to access PDF documents. Tammy Albee, who created this survey, worked at the NFB national office for four years with Scott White, Director of NFB-NEWSLINE. Ms. Albee now works for Equidox and hopes to submit the results of this survey to the Journal of Blindness Innovation. The information will also be used to advocate for accessibility in government, education, and private enterprise organizations, presented at conferences, and made available on the Equidox website. The survey has 15 questions and will take about 10-15 minutes to complete. All responses and emails will be kept completely anonymous. If you have questions about this survey, please contact Tammy@equidox.co. The deadline for participation is November 30, 2022. To learn more about Equidox, please visit https://equidox.co/. You may complete the survey here:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/nfbaffiliate
3) Survey | Tennessee Specialized Services Survey
Closes: November 30th 2022 If you are or were a vocational rehabilitation client in the state of Tennessee, please complete this survey for Blind Citizens of Tennessee. Those who have tried to get basic licensing, assistive technology, orientation and mobility, and braille skills in Tennessee know that our state is a desert of services. This survey will assist the Blind Citizens of Tennessee in their research to determine the need for a standalone training facility for the blind in Tennessee:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd3lOO_LLUTFEZtqb1mrW0LfOiO2ZQwVuw5JwJLpeTE_TZ9tg/viewform?usp=sf_link
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Podcast Episode for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-podcast-episode or locate "Podcast Episode Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) LBPD TUG: Technology User Group | Maryland State Library Agency | 13th Annual Look At Assistive Technology Gifts for the Holidays
November 5th 2022 | On Saturday, November 5th 2022 the Technology User Group presented our 13th Annual Look At Assistive Technology Gifts for the Holidays! Gadgets, gizmos and exciting products for the home, office and play. Most items profiled cost less than $100. Many vendors also profiled their wares in this special two-hour event:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/maryland-state-library-agency/id1633488438?i=1000586151653
2) Tek Talk Features Stocking Stuffers Part 1 With Barry Scheur Of Guidelights And Gadgets And Krystle Zamudio Of Scentsy
November 7th 2022 | Barry will present in the first half hour from 8 to 8:30pm Eastern and Krystle will present in the second half hour from 8:30 to 9pm Eastern:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tek-talk/id1500954706?i=1000586203245
3) Tek Talk features Stocking Stuffers Part 2 with Denise Russell of Speak To Me Catalog and Barry Carver of Mountain Crafted
November 14th 2022 | Tek Talk features Stocking Stuffers Part 2 with Denise Russell of Speak To Me Catalog and Barry Carver of Mountain Crafted. Denise will present in the first half hour from 8 to 8:30pm Eastern and Barry will present in the second half hour from 8:30 to 9pm Eastern:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tek-talk/id1500954706?i=1000587023947
4) Eyes on Success Episode 2247: Training Low Vision Rehabilitation Optometrists
November 23rd 2022 | People with newly diagnosed vision problems may not get directed to low vision optometrists who can help them adapt to their vision changes. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Richard Jamara and Sarah Hinkley, two editors of a training guide for low vision optometrists, who hope to train more of them and increase awareness of their specialty:
http://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show_notes_2247.htm
5) National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina Podcast | Presentation From Oran McAllister With NaviLens
November 16th 2022 | The Computer Science & Technology Division (CSTD) of the NFB of SC had a presentation from Oran McAllister with NaviLens to tell us all about NaviLens. We have permission to share the recording of Oran's presentation to others who were not able to attend! You will be able to find the recording for the NaviLens presentation at the below links on the National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina's podcast. If you have any suggestions for future Technology Presentations, please send them to Steve Cook at cookcafe@sc.rr.com 📧️:
.
Part 1: https://anchor.fm/national-federation-of-the-blind-of-south-carolina/episodes/NaviLens-Part-1-e1qsqsn
Part 2: https://anchor.fm/national-federation-of-the-blind-of-south-carolina/episodes/NaviLens-Part-2-e1qstip
6) Mosen at Large Episode 207: The Windows Start Menu Verbosity Saga, Mastodon Continues To Gain Traction, And The Need To Make Data Journalism Accessible
7) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 102: Passwords And Accounts Saved Passwords, Autofill and Settings
November 19th 2022 | This week, we look at the password manager-related aspects of the Passwords and Accounts section of the Settings app. Tip of the week: John shows us how to find out what song is playing using the Google Assistant, regardless of the Android phone you have. We have a guide on how to register for discord on google chrome using this link: https://blindandroidusers.com/guide-to-registering-for-discord-on-chrome-browser/. This episode can be found at:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqrQdcSCN6NTaqKf9kZv3D5y
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Webinar, Training Course or Event for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-event or locate "Webinar / Training Course Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) ACB's 2022 Audio Description Awards Gala
November 29 2022 | The American Council of the Blind (ACB) proudly announces the second annual Audio Description Awards Gala on November 29, 2022. The Gala will once again celebrate outstanding achievements in audio description in media and expand awareness of its benefits. In recent years there has been enormous success in expanding audio description for audiences who are blind, low vision, or have other sensory disabilities that create barriers to full inclusion in visual media. "The Audio Description Awards Gala will celebrate the best of the best within the art and science of inclusive audio-described media," said Eric Bridges, ACB's Executive Director. "Together we will work to expand awareness of the transformative value that audio description brings to the lives of people with disabilities:"
https://acb.org/save-the-date-2022-AD-Awards
2) Linking Up with LinkedIn to Increase Employment Opportunities For Blind or Low Vision Users | Mississippi State University National Technical Assistance Center on Blindness & Low Vision
November 30th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | We are having our final webinar of the year, and you are invited! Brief Summary: The NRTC will partner with NSITE to discuss how people with vision loss can increase employment opportunities by using LinkedIn. Registration: Visit the Webinars & Podcasts page to learn more about this webinar, and register today:
https://www.ntac.blind.msstate.edu/consumers/webinars-podcasts
3) PDF Accessibility Training for Organizations | Access Ingenuity
November 30th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Creating accessible PDF documents is essential for most organizations' digital accessibility process. However, organizations often struggle to get their staff trained and efficient at creating accessible PDFs and other accessible digital content. The first step is identifying document creators within the organization and the types of documents they're developing. Depending on the findings, standard and advanced PDF accessibility training may be required. Join Michael Parker from Access Ingenuity to review lessons we learned from creating digital accessibility training and how to apply them to your organization. Learning Outcomes: Understand the components of a comprehensive PDF accessibility training program. Understand the importance of creating accessible templates and using accessible color palettes. Breaking the training down into manageable chunks - from beginners to advanced users. Meeting ID: 883 8806 6414 | Passcode: 878053 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,88388066414#,,,,*878053# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose). Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88388066414?pwd=RU9tQU02ZDlRVjZzWlpwZHVGZjBSUT09
4) Using JAWS Inspect and JAWS Connect for Testing | TPGi
December 1st 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Presenter: Charlie Pike, Platform Success Lead Using transcripts of JAWS speech, you can quickly pinpoint accessibility and usability issues. This demonstration will walk you through some simple tests using both JAWS Inspect and JAWS Connect, explaining how these tools can be integrated into your test processes. Register today:.
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-december-1-at-12pm-et-using-jaws-inspect-and-jaws-connect-for-testing/
5) Blind Health Expo | The Accessible Pharmacy
December 2nd 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | The Accessible Pharmacy Blind Health Expo will be the largest virtual expo of healthcare information, products, services, and medication for individuals who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision. Join thousands of other attendees and register now for free!
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/blind-health-expo/
6) Microsoft Accessibility for Nonprofits Webinar
December 6th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | If you are part of a disability nonprofit organization, please join us for our Microsoft Accessibility for Nonprofits Webinar on Tuesday, December 6th. In this introductory session, you will learn about: Accessibility Nonprofit Tech Accelerator 2023 grant program that provides selected organizations with technology grants and dedicated specialist staff to support your mission. Access to Microsoft Philanthropies grants and discounts across our nonprofit cloud products including Azure, Dynamics 365, and Microsoft 365 for all registered 501 c3 organizations. Microsoft Accessibility team will share our commitment to disability nonprofit partners, our work on AI for Accessibility & Innovation. Register today for the Microsoft Accessibility for Nonprofit Webinar:
https://learning.eventbuilder.com/event/67484
7) The Current Legal Landscape for Digital Assets Accessibility Risks and How to Provide an Accessible Experience for Retail Customers
December 6th 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenter: Matt Ater, Lori Sommerfield, and Kim Phan
Join Matt Ater of Vispero, along with Lori Sommerfield & Kim Phan, partners at Troutman Pepper, for a discussion concerning the current state of legal risks for accessibility non-compliance and practical tips for making your retail business digital assets accessible for people with disabilities. We will discuss the current state of website and mobile application accessibility litigation, as well as the increasing threat of enforcement of the Americans with Disabilities Act for digital assets by the U.S. Department of Justice under the Biden administration. Learn how to mitigate legal risks by meeting digital accessibility requirements and creating a usable and accessible retail experience. Register today:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-december-6-at-11am-et-the-current-legal-landscape-for-digital-assets-accessibility-risks-and-how-to-provide-an-accessible-experience-for-retail-customers/
8) ONYX Family of Magnifiers: Portable & Powerful (ACVREP CE Approved, Assistive Technology Webinar) | Access Ingenuity
December 7th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | The ONYX family of video magnifiers combines ease of use with powerful yet portable features to help people retain their independent lifestyle - reading, writing, viewing photographs, and engaging in hobbies. Did you know there are three different ONYX models? The ONYX Deskset and ONYX OCR offer larger screens and can adapt to multiple environments and tasks for productivity at school, work, and home. Modern camera technology and HD displays provide a clear, crisp picture with a wide range of magnification and color-coded controls. The ONYX Pro takes portability to the next level by combining it with the Surface 7 tablet to provide the ultimate tool for mobile magnification and reading tasks. During this webinar, we discuss the features and benefits all the ONYX models can give in specific situations. Join Ian Ramos and Joe McDaniel from Vispero as they dive deep into these powerful tools to help those challenged by vision loss. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: Features of all ONYX models. How to determine which model fits your needs best. How adding speech capability can take you further. Benefits of portable, powerful visual tools. Meeting ID: 821 2886 0126 | Passcode: 792304 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,82128860126#,,,,*792304# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose). Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82128860126?pwd=UHBhYXBzTHVGb0tCaktXZVc1anQ0dz09#success
9) 2022 Sight Tech Global — Shaping New Technologies to Create a More Accessible World for People with Blindness and Visual Impairments
December 7th 2022 and December 8th 2022 | Sponsored by Google, APH, Amazon, Humanware, Microsoft, Fable, LinkedIn, and Waymo, 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. Register for free:
https://sighttechglobal.com/
10) 2022 Digital Accessibility Legal Update with Lainey Feingold | Free Webinar
December 8th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | What We'll Cover: A lot has happened in the digital accessibility legal space this year — have you kept up? Most recently, a new digital accessibility law was introduced in the United States Congress. If the law passes as written, it will result in digital accessibility regulations for both websites and software applications. Commercial providers who design, develop, and modify certain websites or applications are part of the proposed legislation. Speaker: Lainey Feingold. Lainey Feingold is a disability rights lawyer who has worked in the digital accessibility space since 1995. She is also an author and international speaker. Lainey, along with her blind clients and co-counsel, helped negotiate the first web accessibility agreement in the United States more than twenty years ago. She has worked with dozens of companies on their accessibility initiatives since that time. Lainey is the author of Structured Negotiation: A Winning Alternative to Lawsuits. Her book shares stories and strategies from twenty-five years of collaborations and relationship-building to help create an inclusive digital world. Register here:
https://go.3playmedia.com/wbnr-12-08-2022-lainey
11) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
December 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
12) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 3: Creative Manual Activities for Christmas | APH
December 12th 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Christmas is a great time to create crafts. Let's share amazing and fun tactile ideas adapted to visually impaired children:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
13) Basics of Accessibility Testing | TPGi
December 13th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Presenter: Aaron Farber, Senior Accessibility Platform Consultant. Accessibility testing is a critical step in delivering a modern online experience. This webinar goes beyond testing checklists to answer the fundamental questions people have when they start testing for web accessibility. For accessibility testing to be effective, organizations must understand what makes a digital experience equal. We'll cover web accessibility, the role and structure of Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), and how to quantify the risk associated with a guideline. Additionally, we'll discuss the following: How to set the scope for accessibility testing and feel confident you are covering the "right parts" of a website/web application. We'll document mouse-only, keyboard-only, and assistive technology testing plans. We'll delve into how web pages expose "semantics" and the tools to understand if your site is properly conveying its meaning to assistive technology. How to get expert support beyond your team to be sure that your accessibility testing results are accurate and more! Learn how to use the tools, access resources, and receive clear steps to perform a full-scale WCAG audit. Register:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-december-13-at-12pm-et-basics-of-accessibility-testing/
14) Creating Accessible Promotional Materials (Digital Accessibility Webinar) | Access Ingenuity
December 14th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | As a document author, learn about choosing colors, selecting images, and laying out your brochure, poster, or flyer in an engaging yet accessible way. Join Rachel Reeves in reviewing the most accessible way to create PDF Promotional Material. Learning Outcomes: Review color contrast requirements. Address mistakes commonly made in the Layout/Reading Order of one-page posters or flyers. Understand obstacles commonly encountered if using authoring tools such as Canva or Illustrator. Analyze poor templates that have images and fonts that make PDF remediation difficult. Meeting ID: 865 1628 1737 | Passcode: 967492 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,86516281737#,,,,*967492# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86516281737?pwd=NTZDdzRmZUdieFBTWnRiMzFsQVhHdz09#success
15) Training Course: Catching Up with JAWS Chapter 4 for JAWS 2022 and 2023 | Hartgen Consultancy
December 14th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | Catching Up with JAWS is priced £35 which is approximately 40 American dollars. Now is your chance to get some high quality training on some of the latest features within the screen-reader JAWS for Windows which have been introduced over the past two years. This follows on from our previous popular training courses on this subject. These training courses are still popular and people are purchasing the older volumes in the series even today:
https://www.hartgen.org/catchup4
16) ZoomText, JAWS & Fusion: Latest Features (Assistive Technology Webinar) | Access Ingenuity
December 21st 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | It's that time again. Not only is it the holidays but also the time when there are important updates for ZoomText, JAWS, and Fusion. Join Ian Ramos and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity to explore what's new in the 2023 updates and some features within the past few years. Learning Outcomes: Briefly explain the differences between ZoomText, JAWS, and Fusion. Compare the different licenses and how you can find out if you are eligible for the latest updates. Explore new 2023 features such as Tethered View, Smart Glance, Notification History improvements, New Tables Only option for Smart Navigation, etc. Review recent features, including Docking the Quick Access Bar, Voice Assistant, Sound Splitter, New Vocalizer Expressive Voices and Languages, and more. Meeting ID: 827 9977 1867 | Passcode: 853407 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,82799771867#,,,,*853407# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82799771867?pwd=VVNHeWhjVVVLc1JDUUtSMlllMnlQZz09#success
17) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 4: Braille Around the World | APH
January 4th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Let's celebrate Louis Braille's Day and explore different braille codes around the world:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
18) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 5: School Aged Numeracy | APH
February 1st 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Using LEGO Braille Bricks to do math: let's discover some of the many uses of these little bricks to develop numerical and geometry skills, understand symmetry, and much more:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
19) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 6: Daily Living Activities | APH
March 6th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Let's explore daily-living activities using LEGO Braille Bricks and share our best practices, experiences, tips:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
20) 2023 3rd Annual Axe-Con | Building Accessible Experiences | The World's Largest Digital Accessibility Conference
March 15th 2022 and March 16th 2023 | Deque Systems, the trusted leader in digital accessibility, has announced the third annual axe-con conference will return on March 15-16th, 2023. With the success of axe-con over the past two years, Deque will continue to host the conference as a free virtual event again next year. 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:
https://www.deque.com/blog/save-the-date-for-axe-con-2023/
21) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 7: Music | APH
April 5th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Let's discover together how to make music with these famous bricks! Come and share your creative ideas:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
22) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 8: STEM | APH
May 3rd 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Have you ever thought of doing science, computing, or technology with LEGO Braille Bricks? Expert guests will join us for an amazing session:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
23) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 9: Orientation & Mobility | APH
June 7th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | LEGO bricks to build plans, visualize routes, it's not new! But with LEGO Braille Bricks you can also create labels, add letters, words... Then it becomes really great:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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
✍ List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. Fill out this short form to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-buy-sell-trade or learn more on the Top Tech Tidbits website.
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: Humanware
➜ 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/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
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)
➜ Combine Learning And Gaming For A Fun Braille Adventure With Polly!
APH and Thinkerbell Labs are excited to introduce Polly, complete with customizable UEB lessons, songs, games, and stories! Join our waiting list to know when Polly is available:
https://www.aph.org/polly-wait-list/
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 Holiday Sales
Our holiday sales, with some deeply cut prices through December 31st. Leather Purse Blow Out: approximately 6 by 10 inches with a very stylish design; has 6 zippered pockets; and a great half moon pocket on the front. Lots of room for essentials - $20. Hands free leather neck pouch; great for AIRA or Be My Eyes; works great with BlindShell. Front: velcro pocket; two full size phone slots, with a full size pocket on the back; down from $20 to $15. Talking Medical bundle with case and accessible "how to" mp: files on sd card. 2nd gen talking oximeter, infrared thermometer, and BP meter. Tested in doctors' offices - $140.00. Call either Barry or Kae (617) 969-7500 📱️ or (781) 286-1696 📱️ for information or for orders.
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, affordable, 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
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: That Real Blind Tech Show
➜ That Real Blind Tech Show Episode 96: We Got More Resolutions, ACB Style!
It's a fully packed That Real Blind Tech show lair. Join us as we recap this year's ACB Resolutions. We chime in with all of our opinions about this year's resolutions, and as usual some hilarity ensues. You will not want to miss both AirPods issues that take place on this episode. We are adding do not listen to That Real Blind Tech show on the bus as we are not responsible for the stares you will receive when laughing or cackling like a lunatic!
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-96-we-got-more-resolutions-acb-style
Sponsor Since: August 11th 2022
Website: https://blindtechshow.com/ 🌐
Email: ThatRealBlindTechShow@gmail.com 📧️
Social: Facebook Page | Facebook Group | Twitter
Listen: Apple Podcasts | Audible | Google Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube
Hosts: Brian Fischler | Ed Plumacher | Allison Meloy | Jenine Stanley
Goals: We want to educate you on the latest tech for the blindness community. You'll learn what is worth keeping and what you need to return. Our goals are: To inform, inspire and educate our audience. Feature guests and products that bring you value. Continuously improve and deliver the best content.
About: A podcast discussing the good & bad of assistive technology for the low vision & totally blind. No longer focused on just Apple VoiceOver technology. That Real Blind Tech show covers all the fantastic talking tech and gadgets out there for the low vision and blindness community. Common topics include Apple's VoiceOver, JAWS, Microsoft Narrator, NVDA, Amazon Alexa and VoiceView, Google Assistant and Android. Basically, if a device can talk to you, we are going to be talking about it. That Real Blind Tech Show will not only educate you, but it will also make you laugh. Listeners are encouraged to not use treadmills or drink hot coffee while listening to our show, or accidents can and have occurred. Dishes have been broken while listening to That Real Blind Tech Show, and while we are responsible for the laughs, we are in no way responsible for the injuries or bills that pile up. Remember to keep it Real and also don't believe anything you hear on That Real Blind Tech Show.
Home | Episodes | Blog | Contact | Subscribe
Sponsor: Aira
➜ Webinar: Discovering Aira and Content Creation | October 25th 2022 at 2:00 PM ET
Creating content for the ever-expanding media world is a growing profession. During #NDEAM2022 we want to spotlight how blind and low vision people are working in this space. Whether for income or personal brand, these creators integrate visual interpreting into their processes. We'll also get advice from Aira Agents on how to make the most of visual interpreting when creating your content. Join us Tuesday, October 25th 2022 at 2:00pm Eastern time. Register at:
https://aira.zoom.us/webinar/register/9116639399059/WN_g9O7k3RaR7mYYT1ODnm0cA
Sponsor Since: August 4th 2022
Website: https://aira.io/ 🌐
Download the App: Apple App Store | Google Play Store
Plans and Pricing: https://aira.io/pricing/
Phone: NA: +1.800.835.1934 📱️ | AU: +1.800.765.096 📱️ | UK: +0.800.046.5668 📱️ | NZ: +1.800.425.451 📱️
Text Message: NA: +1.858.242.4457 📲 | AU: +61.488.839.767 📲 | UK: +44.149.320.2474 📲
Email: support@aira.io 📧️
Social: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
About: Aira's mission is to remove barriers and make the world more accessible with visual interpreting.
We provide a live, human-to-human professional assistance service, an accommodation or productivity tool, that enhances independence by delivering on-demand, skilled and reliable visual interpreting for just about any task. Using the powerful combination of a camera and the Aira app on someone's device of 'choice', a professionally-trained agent will assist by visually interpreting what is in the camera's view or on screen, from describing to reading, from explaining to navigating - just about anything, safely and securely. Aira supports a growing range of devices including smart and tactile button phones, desktop computers and soon, wearables.
Whether you are involved in the work of business, the work of school or the work of life, Aira enhances everyday efficiency, engagement, and independence. Used by employees and customers of hundreds of organizations including airports, banks, the largest software companies, financial firms, retailers and universities, we invite you to join the community, access the Aira app today and try it for free.
https://aira.io/download-and-try-it/
Step One: Subscribe and Download. Pick the plan that lets you explore on your terms and on your time, sign up in a few minutes, and download the Aira app to your smartphone. Plans shown are for the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Add or cancel at any time.
Step Two: Connect with an Aira Agent. On the first call, connect with one of our certified, specially-trained Agents and learn how everything works.
Step Three: Real-time Assistance. At the touch of a button, Aira delivers instant access to visual information, when and where you want it.
Sponsor: Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
➜ Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore: Touch Tomorrow in Today's Products
Serving blind people since 1999, we're a family-owned, forward-thinking company offering both tried-and-true and exciting new products for blind and low vision consumers. We design and carry self-voicing educational software, Braille supplies, talking gadgets, adapted household items, tactile card and board games, audible toys and gift ideas. Passionate about innovation, we've also created dozens of products from scratch when a suitable solution did not exist. Shop online at http://www.braillebookstore.com/ and enjoy fast, free shipping.
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: http://www.braillebookstore.com/ 🌐
Phone (Toll Free): (800) 987-1231 📱️
Fax (Toll Free): (800) 985-1231 ░
Email: Sales@BrailleBookstore.com 📧️
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time.
About: Welcome to Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore. We have been supplying products to blind people and their families since 1999. We offer thousands of Braille books, toys, games, kitchen aids, and talking products. We have unbeatable prices, fast, free shipping, and great customer service! We have tons of Braille books and cool products to choose from; so grab a cup of coffee, relax, and we'll give you a quick tour:
Products:
➜ Timekeeping
➜ Housewares
➜ On The Go
➜ Low Vision Products
➜ Toys and Games
➜ Gift Shop
➜ Braille Workshop
➜ Braille Bookstore
➜ Greeting Cards
➜ Copy Center
➜ Computer Lab
➜ Popular Products
➜ New Products
If you need some fresh ideas or have questions, you can also check out our Shopping Guides.
Sponsor: Fable
➜ Free and Accessible Training for the Tech Sector
Fable Pathways helps you gain the skills that you need to work in the tech sector with a free, accessible, and on-demand program. Learn from industry leaders with disabilities to take your career to the next level, like Kelly Ford, Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, who introduces GitHub and VS Code using a screen reader. Spend less time and energy trying to access courses with your assistive technology and focus on the content that matters to you, with Fable Pathways' accessible platform. Sign up today!
https://www.fablepathways.com/
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: https://fablepathways.com/ 🌐
Email: community@makeitfable.com 📧️
Phone: (888) 212-3532 📱️ Extension 810
About: Just like curb cuts help everyone get on and off sidewalks, designing digital products with accessibility in mind helps make the internet more accessible for everyone. Fable is an accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities. Fable connects people with disabilities to accessibility managers, user researchers, designers, and developers to build incredible and accessible user experiences.
Opportunities:
➜ Fable Pathways: Fable Pathways is a free skill development program for people with disabilities interested in working in the tech sector. Sign up to take your career to the next level. Courses include "Getting started in web development" taught by Kelly Ford, a screen reader user, and Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, and "Becoming a manager" taught by Fable's Head of Accessibility Innovation, Kate Kalcevich. Instructors are subject matter experts in their fields and have lived experience with disability. Pathways courses are free, self-paced and assistive-technology-friendly. Sign up now at https://fablepathways.com/.
➜ Fable's Community of Accessibility Testers: Work from home to contribute to real changes in digital accessibility and make the internet a more accessible place for everyone. Ever leave a website because it was too hard to navigate? Because it was missing button labels? Because it didn't respond to voice commands? Us too. Our community of testers who use assistive technologies work from home and contribute to real changes in digital accessibility with recognizable brands. Earn money to share your feedback on websites and apps of your favorite brands and work with companies that care. No experience required and no resume required. Fable is looking for assistive technology users in the USA and Canada to work the hours that they want, from the comfort of their own homes. Learn more at https://fablepathways.com/community/.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ Dolphin Friends Program
If you work for a non-profit, charity or society that provides services to people with visual impairments, we invite you to take part in our Dolphin Friends Program. Dolphin will outfit your center with assistive technology solutions that can benefit your clients who need to remain independent, are trying to sharpen their technology skills for employment and more. Learn more about becoming a Dolphin Friend:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/join-dolphin-friends
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Sponsor: Clusiv
➜ Looking For Blind Job-Seekers Wanting To Advance Their Salaries, Careers And Digital Accessibility For The Blind
Are you interested in learning new tech skills and working remotely while earning a competitive salary? At Clusiv.io we have created the world's first digitally accessible e-Learning platform built by the blind, and built for the blind. Visit the link provided and request Clusiv through your Vocational Rehab counselor for lifetime access to our e-Learning platform with courses such as Business Applications, JAWS, and more:
https://clusiv.io/
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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 from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Control the climate of your home independently! The VIP 3000 is a universal heating — cooling talking thermostat This accessible digital thermostat is specifically designed to offer audio playback of indoor temperature, temperature settings and programming instructions so blind and visually impaired users can independently & precisely manage their indoor comfort. Don't over pay. Read more at:
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 every day 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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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 Next Generation in Accessibility
Need to quickly access a distant computer with minimal fuss? Need to quickly convert image documents into readable text? Today's students and working professionals demand more of their technology. Employers expect more of their workforce. Pneuma Solutions is bridging the gap using the best in machine learning to connect you to your environment when you need it, how you need it. Give us a try, and experience accessibility on a whole new level:
https://pneumasolutions.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
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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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.
Your Name Here
0 of 18 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are currently 0 of 18 packages available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, November 17, 2022 - Volume 885
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.
Subscribers: 7,121 Opt-In Subscribers were sent this issue via email. 148 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Tech the Halls with A. T. Guys: Holiday Deals, Free Shipping, and More Available Now
Our biggest sale of the year is now live, & we have the tech toys to fill those stockings. Plus, use coupon tidbits for free shipping on orders of $79 or more through November 30.
The BlindShell 2 just keeps getting better. Now with support for AIRA & Be My Eyes as well as many more apps, but still simple to use with spoken menus, tactile buttons, & a loud speaker. Get a free beep item locator when you purchase a BlindShell 2 while supplies last.
Save $5 on our new portable light detector, or grab our accessible power bank to charge your devices on the go. We have the Versa full-size & mini paperless slates, & new FlyBuds with a transparency mode for hearing the outside world. Check out the Shokz OpenComm headset, great when paired with your phone to take calls, Or our new 90-watt Bluetooth speaker, the Stormbox Blast. Save 10% on WayAround stickers, buttons, magnets, & clips.
Visit http://atguys.com/tidbits for all of our deals, & don't forget that coupon. Free shipping for U.S. customers.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Tidbit for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) iOS 16.2 To Introduce 'Custom Accessibility Mode' With Streamlined Experience For iPhone And iPad (9.6% of all clicks.)
This update to the iOS interface, now in beta, seeks to simplify the user experience for users:
https://9to5mac.com/2022/11/08/ios-16-2-custom-accessibility-mode/
B.) JAWS Power Tip: Using Smart Glance (9.5% of all clicks.)
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/130.html
C.) The 6 Best Speech-to-Text Apps for Note-Taking (8.7% of all clicks.)
Speech-to-text apps are the best way to take notes on the go. They can also save you time. Here are some of the best ones to use:
https://www.makeuseof.com/best-speech-to-text-apps/
D.) Reader Review: azzCardfile Personal Information Manager (PIM) (6.6% of all clicks.)
Dear Tidbits Readers. One of the applications that I always loved during these past 15 to 20 years is the azzCardfile Personal Information Manager (PIM) database. Basically its a simple freeform database that can be used for many different things / ideas. For example I have a personal telephone directory. I also have a database file with a lot of tips and tricks that I learned during my life about computers and if you like you can use it as a picture album because it supports the insertion of pictures directly into the cards:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/131.html
E.) The 27 Best Mac Apps That Will Make Your Life Easier | Wired (6.2% of all clicks.)
MacOS may be the apple of your eye, but some of its stock apps are a little rotten. Take a bite of these third-party apps instead:
https://www.wired.com/story/best-mac-apps/
2) Sponsorship Package Updates
There are no Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Packages currently available. If you would like to support Top Tech Tidbits by becoming a Sponsor in the future please add your name to our waiting list today by sending an email to our Publisher at the address below. We will add your name to the list, let you know what position you currently hold within it, and then notify you the moment a package becomes available. There are currently four future Sponsors on the waiting list:
publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️
3) Premium Subscriber Updates
Premium Subscribers are entitled to all back issues, anytime they sign up. All available back issues will be sent to you via email within 24 hours of purchasing your subscription. Premium Subscribers will receive their 3rd Volume of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits for October, November and December 2022 on Monday, January 2nd 2023. If you would like to receive a perfectly formatted and searchable Word Document with each of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits of the last 3 months listed neatly within it, please consider joining us today for just $1 a month:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/premium-subscribers.html
4) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: Don't Forget About the F6 Key
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/133.html
5) A Beginner's Guide To Mastodon, The Open Source Twitter Alternative | TechCrunch
Publisher: We begin this week by riding the elephant. | As Twitter users fret over the direction that new owner Elon Musk is taking the company, masses of users have hopped over to Mastodon, an open source Twitter alternative. Since October 27, when the SpaceX and Tesla CEO formalized his Twitter takeover, Mastodon has gained nearly 500,000 new users, effectively doubling its user base. But what is Mastodon, and should we all be getting our accounts set up?
https://techcrunch.com/2022/11/08/what-is-mastodon/?guccounter=1
6) Additional Links For Those Interested in Using Mastodon | David Goldfield | Tech-VI List
Here are some links regarding Mastodon as it relates to disabilities and accessibility. First, Mastodon servers are very accessible. Four servers that may be of interest to some in this community are:
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/2953
7) Mastodon 4.0 Released | David Goldfield | Tech-VI List
This is not a piece of software that most users will be downloading and installing unless they are running their own Mastodon server or, as it's often called, an instance. However, these changes should hopefully be making their way to the various Mastodon servers which are available. This new version includes 43 added features, 30 changes and 72 fixes:
https://github.com/mastodon/mastodon/releases/tag/v4.0.0
8) New Training Course From Hartgen Consultancy: Masto-Done; Riding the Elephant!
In the wake of the noisy takeover of Twitter, people have been looking for alternatives to the microblogging social media platform. Many of those fleeing or hedging their bets have turned to Mastodon, which has attracted hundreds of thousands of new users since Twitter's acquisition. Like Twitter, Mastodon allows users to post, follow people and organizations, and like and repost others' posts. But while Mastodon supports many of the same social networking features as Twitter, it is not a single platform:
https://www.hartgen.org/mastodone
9) A n00b's Guide To Mastodon | Jeremy Littau
With Twitter flailing, I spent a week trying to level up my experience on the major social network people are fleeing to. It has a learning curve, but that's why you've got me to help:
https://jeremylittau.medium.com/a-n00bs-guide-to-mastodon-806d1b367f2d
10) NVDA 2022.3.2 Released
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/nvda-2022-3-2/
11) How to Find Your Twitter Friends on Mastodon | Wired
If you're pondering a move to the decentralized social network, here's how to find the people you know and want to talk to:
https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-find-twitter-friends-on-mastodon/
12) Microsoft Accessibility Nonprofit Tech Accelerator Launches To Supply Technology And Funding Support To Disability Nonprofit Organizations Around The World
"The Accessibility NTA is a program that supports disability-focused nonprofit organizations with access to enterprise technology and grants to best serve the disability community." If you are an organization who is interested in applying, there is an online seminar on December 6th 2022 with more information:
https://blogs.microsoft.com/accessibility/microsoft-accessibility-nonprofit-tech-accelerator/
13) About Us, The Unwritten
This publication pays disabled writers for their contributions:
https://www.theunwritten.co.uk/about-us/
14) Introducing Our New Interactive Audio Game — Evidence 111 | Applevis
My name is Kamila and I am writing on behalf of a Czech indie game development studio Play By Ears. I would like to inform you about the release of our fully-accessible audio game called Evidence 111, launching November 15th 2022 on iOS and Android:
https://www.applevis.com/forum/ios-ipados-gaming/introducing-our-new-interactive-audio-game-evidence-111
15) This Modder Sells an Ingenious One-Handed Nintendo Switch Adapter | ReviewGeek
After building one-handed adapters for the Xbox and PS5, Akaki Kuumeri now sells a similar attachment for the Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons. The 3D-printed, fully mechanical adapter allows gamers to access the full range of Joy-Con controls using just one hand:
https://www.reviewgeek.com/127506/this-modder-sells-an-ingenious-one-handed-nintendo-switch-adapter/
16) Github Is Experimenting With A New Way To Let Programmers Create Code With Their Voice Inside Copilot
This system, now available in VS (Visual Studio) Code, will make it possible to control an IDE (Integrated Development Environment) with your voice. It has accessibility benefits for coders:
https://www.theverge.com/2022/11/9/23449175/hey-github-voice-copilot-code-programming-system
17) GitHub's Copilot Takes the Keyboard Out of Coding
It seems that Microsoft's love for accessibility is trickling down to GitHub. In a surprise announcement, GitHub says that it's testing a hands-free coding feature for its Copilot software. In time, a simple "Hey, GitHub" voice command will let you write, edit, and navigate code without a keyboard:
https://www.reviewgeek.com/136042/githubs-copilot-takes-the-keyboard-out-of-coding/
18) Hartgen Consultancy Holiday Sale | David Goldfield | Tech-VI List
While I personally can't and don't endorse all of the products that get mentioned on the Tech-VI list there are some products that I don't hesitate to endorse and recommend. The products from Hartgen Consultancy definitely fall into that category. I've been a user of Leasey since 2018 and I would not want to use JAWS without Leasey installed. I've also used his scripts for Zoom as well as for Teams and they have definitely enhanced and improved the user experience. I have purchased many of his training courses and I feel that he's one of the finest trainers we have in this industry. I have not been asked to make this recommendation and I have never received any discounts for the products which I have purchased beyond the sales he has offered for all of his customers:
https://www.hartgen.org/holiday2022
19) Significant Improvements for Screen Readers Now in Nightly Firefox
The nightly builds of Firefox have improvements for screen reader users. If all goes well, they will be in the stable release soon:
https://blog.mozilla.org/accessibility/significant-improvements-for-screen-readers-now-in-nightly-firefox/
20) Overview Of The 6dot Braille Label Maker | Easterseals Crossroads
If you're looking for an easy-to-use Braille label maker, check out the 6dot Braille Label Maker from Logan Tech. This portable Braille label maker has a built-in Braille keyboard that supports all grades of Braille in "virtually every language:"
https://www.eastersealstech.com/2022/10/27/6dot-braille-label-maker/
21) Sight Tech Global 2022 Agenda Announced | December 7th & 8th 2022
The third annual Sight Tech Global conference, a virtual, free and highly accessible event on December 7 and 8 convenes some of the world's top experts working on assistive tech, especially AI, for people who are blind or visually impaired. If you don't follow this topic, maybe you should, because a lot of cutting-edge tech over the years — think OCR and NLP — was developed at the outset with blind people in mind, and went from there to more mainstream uses. Register today:
https://techcrunch.com/2022/11/11/sight-tech-global-2022-agenda-announced/
22) New Quick Assist App Will Soon Be Integrated Into Windows
Microsoft announced the retiring of the integrated Quick Assist application of the Windows operating system in May 2022. Quick Assist is a remote assistance application, which may be used to get or give assistance. It is commonly used by technicians to provide remote assistance to an organization's workforce:
https://www.ghacks.net/2022/11/13/new-quick-assist-app-will-soon-be-integrated-into-windows/
23) Microsoft Office Is Getting an Updated Look On iPhone
The Microsoft Office apps have been around on iPhone, iPad, and Android for years, and every once in a while, they receive a significant update. Now another change is rolling out to the iPhone apps:
https://www.howtogeek.com/848116/microsoft-office-is-getting-an-updated-look-on-iphone/
24) Braille on Android | Devin Prater
In this article, I'll overview Android's past support for Braille, and talk about how it's current support works. I'll also compare it to Apple's implementation. Then, I'll discuss how things could be better on both systems:
https://write.as/devinprater/braille-on-android
25) Blind Android Users Launches New Discord Server
Discord is a free communications app that lets you share voice, video, and text chat with friends and colleagues. It has hundreds of millions of users, making it one of the most popular ways to connect with people online. Join the new Blind Android Users Discord server at:
https://discord.gg/GuNVWWGTxx
26) How To Have Your Android Phone's Google Assistant Read Articles Out Loud To You
The tool is called "Read it," and it works within Chrome, the Google app, or the Google News app. If you have an Android phone and a web article is pulled up on your browser, you can say, "Hey Google, read it," or "Hey Google, read this page," and it will immediately read the content of the web page as if it was a podcast:
https://chromeunboxed.com/how-to-android-read-it-assistant
27) Your iPhone Has 26 New Accessibility Tools You Shouldn't Ignore
This is a handy rundown of the latest accessibility features on iOS devices:
https://ios.gadgethacks.com/how-to/your-iphone-has-26-new-accessibility-tools-you-shouldnt-ignore-0385071/
28) The Best Apple Watch for 2022 | PC Mag
Can't decide between the Apple Watch Series 8, SE, Ultra, or an older model that's still on sale? We're here to help you figure out which Apple Watch is best for you:
https://www.pcmag.com/picks/the-best-apple-watch?taid=636ed3fd61b9590001775547
29) This Bluetooth Chessboard Rekindled My Love of Chess | Wired
Publisher: We currently have no information regarding the accessibility of this product but we would be more than happy to publish any that readers might wish to provide. | The Square Off Pro is an internet-connected board you can roll up to take anywhere — and to play with opponents around the world:
https://www.wired.com/story/square-off-pro-chessboard-rave/
30) Thunderbird Supernova Preview: The New Calendar Design
In 2023, Thunderbird will reinvent itself with the "Supernova" release, featuring a modernized interface and brand new features like Firefox Sync. One of the major improvements you can look forward to is an overhaul to our calendar UI (user interface). Today we're excited to give you a preview of what it looks like:
https://blog.thunderbird.net/2022/11/thunderbird-supernova-preview-the-new-calendar-design/
31) Latest Accessibility Features That Make Amazon Devices Disable Friendly | Sovan Mandal | Good eReader
It has been a constant endeavor at Amazon to offer devices and services that has the widest appeal and application in society. That includes reaching out to those with different forms of disabilities so that they too are able to make the most of the latest Amazon devices. With around a billion people living throughout the world with different forms of disabilities, it makes a lot of business sense as well reaching out to them with the right kind of devices and features, besides of course making things easier for them as well. I discuss here four ways Amazon has made Alexa or its devices more accessible instead of the usual voice commands, something that can be a boon for the disabled and help them be "connected, entertained, and independent:"
https://goodereader.com/blog/kindle/latest-accessibility-features-that-make-amazon-devices-disable-friendly
➜ Surveys
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related survey for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-survey or locate "Survey Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Surveys | APH
Closes: Ongoing Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
2) Survey | Programming Workspace Accessibility for Blind Individuals
Closes: November 17th 2022 A research team composed of blind and sighted scholars at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is conducting exploratory research on blind individuals' interactions with accessible programming workspaces and their approach towards comprehending and navigating code. In this context, an individual's level of visual impairment is based on The U.S. legal definition of blindness: visual acuity of not greater than 20/200 in the better eye with correction or a field not subtending an angle greater than 20 degrees. The expected value of this study is that we will get a better sense of the following topics based on blind programmers; experiences, which will in turn scientifically highlight the existing accessibility of programming workspaces and the opportunities to improve them to support blind programmers: The common accessibility issues of blind programmers. The patterns of interaction between blind programmers and the accessibility tools used to code. The level of navigability, glanceability, alertability, and discoverability the popular accessible programming workspaces have. Participants' personal information and data such as name, email, age, etc. collected from the interview will be systematically removed from the final results used to conduct analysis in order to make sure researchers will not disclose any of your personal information without your permission as well as skew the analysis. The research team would like to invite blind individuals to participate in an online interview consisting of two sections: a questionnaire regarding past coding experience and an interactive coding session. This will allow researchers to further investigate how blind programmers code and interact with technologies and tools. Participants will receive a $20 Amazon gift card upon completing the one-hour interview and coding activity. Eligible participants for the online interview are those: self-identifying themselves as an individual who is blind; age 18 or older; having any level of programming experience; having familiarity with Python, Java, C++ or C programming languages; having experience with screen readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, ORCA, etc. If you are interested in participating, or have a question, please contact our research team at:rshah257@illinois.edu 📧️
3) Survey | The Byte Size Training Tech Website Feedback Survey
Closes: November 18th 2022 This survey is where individuals with disabilities can provide feedback relating to the Byte Size Training Tech website and suggest improvements. Here is a link to the Byte Size Training Tech website at https://bytesizetrainingtech.com:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeJ1gqw4KFOduexJc5HY-nyGrybfODQhGLpJBP9gQ9wVL8swg/viewform?usp=sf_link
4) Survey | PDF User Survey
Closes: November 30th 2022 Equidox Software Company provides PDF accessibility software and services and is conducting a survey of blind and low-vision adults who are assistive technology users. The goal is to gain information about the real experience of people who use assistive technology to access PDF documents. Tammy Albee, who created this survey, worked at the NFB national office for four years with Scott White, Director of NFB-NEWSLINE. Ms. Albee now works for Equidox and hopes to submit the results of this survey to the Journal of Blindness Innovation. The information will also be used to advocate for accessibility in government, education, and private enterprise organizations, presented at conferences, and made available on the Equidox website. The survey has 15 questions and will take about 10-15 minutes to complete. All responses and emails will be kept completely anonymous. If you have questions about this survey, please contact Tammy@equidox.co. The deadline for participation is November 30, 2022. To learn more about Equidox, please visit https://equidox.co/. You may complete the survey here:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/nfbaffiliate
5) Survey | Tennessee Specialized Services Survey
Closes: November 30th 2022 If you are or were a vocational rehabilitation client in the state of Tennessee, please complete this survey for Blind Citizens of Tennessee. Those who have tried to get basic licensing, assistive technology, orientation and mobility, and braille skills in Tennessee know that our state is a desert of services. This survey will assist the Blind Citizens of Tennessee in their research to determine the need for a standalone training facility for the blind in Tennessee:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd3lOO_LLUTFEZtqb1mrW0LfOiO2ZQwVuw5JwJLpeTE_TZ9tg/viewform?usp=sf_link
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Podcast Episode for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-podcast-episode or locate "Podcast Episode Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Blind Abilities Podcast Episode 905: Tech Abilities - Education and Learning, Twitter Accessibility Team is Laid Off, Traveling Blind, BARD Update, and Resources for Learning and Knowledge with Blindness in Mind
November 6th 2022 | A Big salute to the entire Accessibility Experience Team formally at Twitter. As part of the takeover at Twitter and all the layoffs, the entire Accessibility Experience Team at Twitter has been laid off. Accessibility Experience Team Manager, Gerard Koen, released a twitter thread acknowledging the members of the Accessibility Experience Team, the work they did and is looking forward to working on accessibility for future companies. We play a voice over rendition of his Twitter thread he posted. In this episode of Tech Abilities the team, and no, Serina has not been laid off, comes together in the Blind Abilities Studio to talk about resources for general knowledge and learning on an everyday basis along with the latest news and tech tidbits from a Blindness perspective. Here are the topics and some links from the show: Wow, Twitter, Hmm. Learning - Where do we get our knowledge? Resources: Freedom Scientific Training Events. Hadley. Perkins. APH Educational R:
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7688
2) Reading After Vision Loss: Hadley Presents: A Conversation with the Experts
November 11th 2022 | Whether you like to read for enjoyment or need to check your mail, reading is an essential part of your day. We're sharing tips and tricks for how to continue reading, the best low-tech and high-tech gadgets, and the benefits of learning braille:
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/reading-after-vision-loss
3) Mosen at Large Episode 206: Mastering Mastodon, How Do You Get Started With Ham Radio, And A Fix For The Eset Issues Plaguing Screen Reader Users
4) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 101: BAU Podcast Crew Reflects On The Discussions Held In Episode 100
November 12th 2022 | In episode 101 we first thank our YouTube subscribers for taking us over the milestone of 775 subscribers. Our channel handle is @BlindAndroidUsers. Our YouTube channel can also be found at this link: https://www.youtube.com/@BlindAndroidUsers. First, we show you how to diagnose problems and device care available on Samsung phones. Then the podcast crew reflects on topics that were discussed on our 100-episode celebration in which our listeners had joined us. Topics include: Seeing move assistant and guided frames on Pixel and Samsung cameras. Warren demos it on Pixel 7 phone. Android marriage with Windows. Watch my demo of how to link any Android device to a PC running Windows 10 or 11. The demo is available on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/9Brg2H3ND1A. All about TTS in which we went down memory lane discussing the piko TTS available back in android 2.3.6 days and how some of the TTS may not work after Android 14 rolls out as it will be 64 bit only. And the most important of all, phone speakers and audio. in which we discuss beets audio, the best sounding phone and much more. To listen to this episode, you can visit:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqo9W1sv_ISoOUheGSRlvUDf
5) That Real Blind Tech Show, Episode 103: Twitter, The Technological Hindenburg
November 12th 2022 | The entire That Real Blind Tech Show team gets together to discuss the latest goings on at Twitter, Facebook, and Amazon. We discuss the upcoming Sight Tech Global, as Brian will be this year's Host. We also discuss the good and bad from our experiences running Mac OS Ventura:
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-103-twitter-the-technological-hindenburg
6) Eyes on Success Episode 2246: Over Every Hurdle
November 16th 2022 | "Over Every Hurdle" is the third book in a series whose protagonist suddenly loses her sight and adapts to life as a blind person. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with best-selling author Barbara Hinske and with Julie Rock, Manager, Adult and Transition Services at Foundation for Blind Children about how they interacted to make the series possible:
http://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show_notes_2246.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Webinar, Training Course or Event for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-event or locate "Webinar / Training Course Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) New features in JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion 2023 | Freedom Scientific
November 17th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Vispero Presenters: Elizabeth Whitaker, Cathy Johnson, and Rachel Buchanan. Summary: We will provide an overview of Fusion Suite 2023, plus discuss and demonstrate new features. Participants will learn how to: Access the What's New pages for JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion 2023. Get started using new features. Download and install the software. ACVREP credits will be available for those who attend the live webinar. Register for this webinar on Zoom:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_I8M3DYvBT0CQ-T-xGXOl4Q
2) Live and Virtual Technology Fair | Carroll Center for the Blind
November 22nd 2022 | The Carroll Center for the Blind's in person Technology Fair is back! 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. The Technology Fair is free and open to consumers, families, friends, and professionals:
https://carroll.org/events/live-and-virtual-technology-fair/
3) ACB's 2022 Audio Description Awards Gala
November 29 2022 | The American Council of the Blind (ACB) proudly announces the second annual Audio Description Awards Gala on November 29, 2022. The Gala will once again celebrate outstanding achievements in audio description in media and expand awareness of its benefits. In recent years there has been enormous success in expanding audio description for audiences who are blind, low vision, or have other sensory disabilities that create barriers to full inclusion in visual media. "The Audio Description Awards Gala will celebrate the best of the best within the art and science of inclusive audio-described media," said Eric Bridges, ACB's Executive Director. "Together we will work to expand awareness of the transformative value that audio description brings to the lives of people with disabilities:"
https://acb.org/save-the-date-2022-AD-Awards
4) PDF Accessibility Training for Organizations | Access Ingenuity
November 30th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Creating accessible PDF documents is essential for most organizations' digital accessibility process. However, organizations often struggle to get their staff trained and efficient at creating accessible PDFs and other accessible digital content. The first step is identifying document creators within the organization and the types of documents they're developing. Depending on the findings, standard and advanced PDF accessibility training may be required. Join Michael Parker from Access Ingenuity to review lessons we learned from creating digital accessibility training and how to apply them to your organization. Learning Outcomes: Understand the components of a comprehensive PDF accessibility training program. Understand the importance of creating accessible templates and using accessible color palettes. Breaking the training down into manageable chunks - from beginners to advanced users. Meeting ID: 883 8806 6414 | Passcode: 878053 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,88388066414#,,,,*878053# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose). Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88388066414?pwd=RU9tQU02ZDlRVjZzWlpwZHVGZjBSUT09
5) Using JAWS Inspect and JAWS Connect for Testing | TPGi
December 1st 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Presenter: Charlie Pike, Platform Success Lead Using transcripts of JAWS speech, you can quickly pinpoint accessibility and usability issues. This demonstration will walk you through some simple tests using both JAWS Inspect and JAWS Connect, explaining how these tools can be integrated into your test processes. Register today:.
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-december-1-at-12pm-et-using-jaws-inspect-and-jaws-connect-for-testing/
6) Blind Health Expo | The Accessible Pharmacy
December 2nd 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | The Accessible Pharmacy Blind Health Expo will be the largest virtual expo of healthcare information, products, services, and medication for individuals who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision. Join thousands of other attendees and register now for free!
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/blind-health-expo/
7) Microsoft Accessibility for Nonprofits Webinar
December 6th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | If you are part of a disability nonprofit organization, please join us for our Microsoft Accessibility for Nonprofits Webinar on Tuesday, December 6th. In this introductory session, you will learn about: Accessibility Nonprofit Tech Accelerator 2023 grant program that provides selected organizations with technology grants and dedicated specialist staff to support your mission. Access to Microsoft Philanthropies grants and discounts across our nonprofit cloud products including Azure, Dynamics 365, and Microsoft 365 for all registered 501 c3 organizations. Microsoft Accessibility team will share our commitment to disability nonprofit partners, our work on AI for Accessibility & Innovation. Register today for the Microsoft Accessibility for Nonprofit Webinar:
https://learning.eventbuilder.com/event/67484
8) The Current Legal Landscape for Digital Assets Accessibility Risks and How to Provide an Accessible Experience for Retail Customers
December 6th 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenter: Matt Ater, Lori Sommerfield, and Kim Phan
Join Matt Ater of Vispero, along with Lori Sommerfield & Kim Phan, partners at Troutman Pepper, for a discussion concerning the current state of legal risks for accessibility non-compliance and practical tips for making your retail business digital assets accessible for people with disabilities. We will discuss the current state of website and mobile application accessibility litigation, as well as the increasing threat of enforcement of the Americans with Disabilities Act for digital assets by the U.S. Department of Justice under the Biden administration. Learn how to mitigate legal risks by meeting digital accessibility requirements and creating a usable and accessible retail experience. Register today:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-december-6-at-11am-et-the-current-legal-landscape-for-digital-assets-accessibility-risks-and-how-to-provide-an-accessible-experience-for-retail-customers/
9) 2022 Sight Tech Global — Shaping New Technologies to Create a More Accessible World for People with Blindness and Visual Impairments
December 7th 2022 and December 8th 2022 | Sponsored by Google, APH, Amazon, Humanware, Microsoft, Fable, LinkedIn, and Waymo, 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. Register for free:
https://sighttechglobal.com/
10) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
December 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
11) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 3: Creative Manual Activities for Christmas | APH
December 12th 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Christmas is a great time to create crafts. Let's share amazing and fun tactile ideas adapted to visually impaired children:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
12) Basics of Accessibility Testing | TPGi
December 13th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Presenter: Aaron Farber, Senior Accessibility Platform Consultant. Accessibility testing is a critical step in delivering a modern online experience. This webinar goes beyond testing checklists to answer the fundamental questions people have when they start testing for web accessibility. For accessibility testing to be effective, organizations must understand what makes a digital experience equal. We'll cover web accessibility, the role and structure of Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), and how to quantify the risk associated with a guideline. Additionally, we'll discuss the following: How to set the scope for accessibility testing and feel confident you are covering the "right parts" of a website/web application. We'll document mouse-only, keyboard-only, and assistive technology testing plans. We'll delve into how web pages expose "semantics" and the tools to understand if your site is properly conveying its meaning to assistive technology. How to get expert support beyond your team to be sure that your accessibility testing results are accurate and more! Learn how to use the tools, access resources, and receive clear steps to perform a full-scale WCAG audit. Register:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-december-13-at-12pm-et-basics-of-accessibility-testing/
13) Training Course: Catching Up with JAWS Chapter 4 for JAWS 2022 and 2023 | Hartgen Consultancy
December 14th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | Catching Up with JAWS is priced £35 which is approximately 40 American dollars. Now is your chance to get some high quality training on some of the latest features within the screen-reader JAWS for Windows which have been introduced over the past two years. This follows on from our previous popular training courses on this subject. These training courses are still popular and people are purchasing the older volumes in the series even today:
https://www.hartgen.org/catchup4
14) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 4: Braille Around the World | APH
January 4th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Let's celebrate Louis Braille's Day and explore different braille codes around the world:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
15) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 5: School Aged Numeracy | APH
February 1st 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Using LEGO Braille Bricks to do math: let's discover some of the many uses of these little bricks to develop numerical and geometry skills, understand symmetry, and much more:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
16) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 6: Daily Living Activities | APH
March 6th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Let's explore daily-living activities using LEGO Braille Bricks and share our best practices, experiences, tips:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
17) 2023 3rd Annual Axe-Con | Building Accessible Experiences | The World's Largest Digital Accessibility Conference
March 15th 2022 and March 16th 2023 | Deque Systems, the trusted leader in digital accessibility, has announced the third annual axe-con conference will return on March 15-16th, 2023. With the success of axe-con over the past two years, Deque will continue to host the conference as a free virtual event again next year. 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:
https://www.deque.com/blog/save-the-date-for-axe-con-2023/
18) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 7: Music | APH
April 5th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Let's discover together how to make music with these famous bricks! Come and share your creative ideas:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
19) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 8: STEM | APH
May 3rd 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Have you ever thought of doing science, computing, or technology with LEGO Braille Bricks? Expert guests will join us for an amazing session:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
20) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 9: Orientation & Mobility | APH
June 7th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | LEGO bricks to build plans, visualize routes, it's not new! But with LEGO Braille Bricks you can also create labels, add letters, words... Then it becomes really great:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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
✍ List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. Fill out this short form to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-buy-sell-trade or learn more on the Top Tech Tidbits website.
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: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ 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!
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)
➜ Combine Learning And Gaming For A Fun Braille Adventure With Polly!
APH and Thinkerbell Labs are excited to introduce Polly, complete with customizable UEB lessons, songs, games, and stories! Join our waiting list to know when Polly is available:
https://www.aph.org/polly-wait-list/
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 Holiday Sales
Our holiday sales, with some deeply cut prices through December 31st. Leather Purse Blow Out: approximately 6 by 10 inches with a very stylish design; has 6 zippered pockets; and a great half moon pocket on the front. Lots of room for essentials - $20. Hands free leather neck pouch; great for AIRA or Be My Eyes; works great with BlindShell. Front: velcro pocket; two full size phone slots, with a full size pocket on the back; down from $20 to $15. Talking Medical bundle with case and accessible "how to" mp: files on sd card. 2nd gen talking oximeter, infrared thermometer, and BP meter. Tested in doctors' offices - $140.00. Call either Barry or Kae (617) 969-7500 📱️ or (781) 286-1696 📱️ for information or for orders.
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, affordable, 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
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: That Real Blind Tech Show
➜ That Real Blind Tech Show Episode 96: We Got More Resolutions, ACB Style!
It's a fully packed That Real Blind Tech show lair. Join us as we recap this year's ACB Resolutions. We chime in with all of our opinions about this year's resolutions, and as usual some hilarity ensues. You will not want to miss both AirPods issues that take place on this episode. We are adding do not listen to That Real Blind Tech show on the bus as we are not responsible for the stares you will receive when laughing or cackling like a lunatic!
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-96-we-got-more-resolutions-acb-style
Sponsor Since: August 11th 2022
Website: https://blindtechshow.com/ 🌐
Email: ThatRealBlindTechShow@gmail.com 📧️
Social: Facebook Page | Facebook Group | Twitter
Listen: Apple Podcasts | Audible | Google Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube
Hosts: Brian Fischler | Ed Plumacher | Allison Meloy | Jenine Stanley
Goals: We want to educate you on the latest tech for the blindness community. You'll learn what is worth keeping and what you need to return. Our goals are: To inform, inspire and educate our audience. Feature guests and products that bring you value. Continuously improve and deliver the best content.
About: A podcast discussing the good & bad of assistive technology for the low vision & totally blind. No longer focused on just Apple VoiceOver technology. That Real Blind Tech show covers all the fantastic talking tech and gadgets out there for the low vision and blindness community. Common topics include Apple's VoiceOver, JAWS, Microsoft Narrator, NVDA, Amazon Alexa and VoiceView, Google Assistant and Android. Basically, if a device can talk to you, we are going to be talking about it. That Real Blind Tech Show will not only educate you, but it will also make you laugh. Listeners are encouraged to not use treadmills or drink hot coffee while listening to our show, or accidents can and have occurred. Dishes have been broken while listening to That Real Blind Tech Show, and while we are responsible for the laughs, we are in no way responsible for the injuries or bills that pile up. Remember to keep it Real and also don't believe anything you hear on That Real Blind Tech Show.
Home | Episodes | Blog | Contact | Subscribe
Sponsor: Aira
➜ Webinar: Discovering Aira and Content Creation | October 25th 2022 at 2:00 PM ET
Creating content for the ever-expanding media world is a growing profession. During #NDEAM2022 we want to spotlight how blind and low vision people are working in this space. Whether for income or personal brand, these creators integrate visual interpreting into their processes. We'll also get advice from Aira Agents on how to make the most of visual interpreting when creating your content. Join us Tuesday, October 25th 2022 at 2:00pm Eastern time. Register at:
https://aira.zoom.us/webinar/register/9116639399059/WN_g9O7k3RaR7mYYT1ODnm0cA
Sponsor Since: August 4th 2022
Website: https://aira.io/ 🌐
Download the App: Apple App Store | Google Play Store
Plans and Pricing: https://aira.io/pricing/
Phone: NA: +1.800.835.1934 📱️ | AU: +1.800.765.096 📱️ | UK: +0.800.046.5668 📱️ | NZ: +1.800.425.451 📱️
Text Message: NA: +1.858.242.4457 📲 | AU: +61.488.839.767 📲 | UK: +44.149.320.2474 📲
Email: support@aira.io 📧️
Social: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
About: Aira's mission is to remove barriers and make the world more accessible with visual interpreting.
We provide a live, human-to-human professional assistance service, an accommodation or productivity tool, that enhances independence by delivering on-demand, skilled and reliable visual interpreting for just about any task. Using the powerful combination of a camera and the Aira app on someone's device of 'choice', a professionally-trained agent will assist by visually interpreting what is in the camera's view or on screen, from describing to reading, from explaining to navigating - just about anything, safely and securely. Aira supports a growing range of devices including smart and tactile button phones, desktop computers and soon, wearables.
Whether you are involved in the work of business, the work of school or the work of life, Aira enhances everyday efficiency, engagement, and independence. Used by employees and customers of hundreds of organizations including airports, banks, the largest software companies, financial firms, retailers and universities, we invite you to join the community, access the Aira app today and try it for free.
https://aira.io/download-and-try-it/
Step One: Subscribe and Download. Pick the plan that lets you explore on your terms and on your time, sign up in a few minutes, and download the Aira app to your smartphone. Plans shown are for the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Add or cancel at any time.
Step Two: Connect with an Aira Agent. On the first call, connect with one of our certified, specially-trained Agents and learn how everything works.
Step Three: Real-time Assistance. At the touch of a button, Aira delivers instant access to visual information, when and where you want it.
Sponsor: Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
➜ Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore: Touch Tomorrow in Today's Products
Serving blind people since 1999, we're a family-owned, forward-thinking company offering both tried-and-true and exciting new products for blind and low vision consumers. We design and carry self-voicing educational software, Braille supplies, talking gadgets, adapted household items, tactile card and board games, audible toys and gift ideas. Passionate about innovation, we've also created dozens of products from scratch when a suitable solution did not exist. Shop online at http://www.braillebookstore.com/ and enjoy fast, free shipping.
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: http://www.braillebookstore.com/ 🌐
Phone (Toll Free): (800) 987-1231 📱️
Fax (Toll Free): (800) 985-1231 ░
Email: Sales@BrailleBookstore.com 📧️
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time.
About: Welcome to Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore. We have been supplying products to blind people and their families since 1999. We offer thousands of Braille books, toys, games, kitchen aids, and talking products. We have unbeatable prices, fast, free shipping, and great customer service! We have tons of Braille books and cool products to choose from; so grab a cup of coffee, relax, and we'll give you a quick tour:
Products:
➜ Timekeeping
➜ Housewares
➜ On The Go
➜ Low Vision Products
➜ Toys and Games
➜ Gift Shop
➜ Braille Workshop
➜ Braille Bookstore
➜ Greeting Cards
➜ Copy Center
➜ Computer Lab
➜ Popular Products
➜ New Products
If you need some fresh ideas or have questions, you can also check out our Shopping Guides.
Sponsor: Fable
➜ Free and Accessible Training for the Tech Sector
Fable Pathways helps you gain the skills that you need to work in the tech sector with a free, accessible, and on-demand program. Learn from industry leaders with disabilities to take your career to the next level, like Kelly Ford, Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, who introduces GitHub and VS Code using a screen reader. Spend less time and energy trying to access courses with your assistive technology and focus on the content that matters to you, with Fable Pathways' accessible platform. Sign up today!
https://www.fablepathways.com/
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: https://fablepathways.com/ 🌐
Email: community@makeitfable.com 📧️
Phone: (888) 212-3532 📱️ Extension 810
About: Just like curb cuts help everyone get on and off sidewalks, designing digital products with accessibility in mind helps make the internet more accessible for everyone. Fable is an accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities. Fable connects people with disabilities to accessibility managers, user researchers, designers, and developers to build incredible and accessible user experiences.
Opportunities:
➜ Fable Pathways: Fable Pathways is a free skill development program for people with disabilities interested in working in the tech sector. Sign up to take your career to the next level. Courses include "Getting started in web development" taught by Kelly Ford, a screen reader user, and Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, and "Becoming a manager" taught by Fable's Head of Accessibility Innovation, Kate Kalcevich. Instructors are subject matter experts in their fields and have lived experience with disability. Pathways courses are free, self-paced and assistive-technology-friendly. Sign up now at https://fablepathways.com/.
➜ Fable's Community of Accessibility Testers: Work from home to contribute to real changes in digital accessibility and make the internet a more accessible place for everyone. Ever leave a website because it was too hard to navigate? Because it was missing button labels? Because it didn't respond to voice commands? Us too. Our community of testers who use assistive technologies work from home and contribute to real changes in digital accessibility with recognizable brands. Earn money to share your feedback on websites and apps of your favorite brands and work with companies that care. No experience required and no resume required. Fable is looking for assistive technology users in the USA and Canada to work the hours that they want, from the comfort of their own homes. Learn more at https://fablepathways.com/community/.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ Dolphin Friends Program
If you work for a non-profit, charity or society that provides services to people with visual impairments, we invite you to take part in our Dolphin Friends Program. Dolphin will outfit your center with assistive technology solutions that can benefit your clients who need to remain independent, are trying to sharpen their technology skills for employment and more. Learn more about becoming a Dolphin Friend:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/join-dolphin-friends
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Sponsor: Clusiv
➜ Looking For Blind Job-Seekers Wanting To Advance Their Salaries, Careers And Digital Accessibility For The Blind
Are you interested in learning new tech skills and working remotely while earning a competitive salary? At Clusiv.io we have created the world's first digitally accessible e-Learning platform built by the blind, and built for the blind. Visit the link provided and request Clusiv through your Vocational Rehab counselor for lifetime access to our e-Learning platform with courses such as Business Applications, JAWS, and more:
https://clusiv.io/
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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 from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Control the climate of your home independently! The VIP 3000 is a universal heating — cooling talking thermostat This accessible digital thermostat is specifically designed to offer audio playback of indoor temperature, temperature settings and programming instructions so blind and visually impaired users can independently & precisely manage their indoor comfort. Don't over pay. Read more at:
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 every day 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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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 Next Generation in Accessibility
Need to quickly access a distant computer with minimal fuss? Need to quickly convert image documents into readable text? Today's students and working professionals demand more of their technology. Employers expect more of their workforce. Pneuma Solutions is bridging the gap using the best in machine learning to connect you to your environment when you need it, how you need it. Give us a try, and experience accessibility on a whole new level:
https://pneumasolutions.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
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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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!
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/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.
Your Name Here
0 of 18 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are currently 0 of 18 packages available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, November 10, 2022 - Volume 884
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.
Subscribers: 7,116 Opt-In Subscribers were sent this issue via email. 148 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Register With Clusiv.io For A Chance To Win One Of Three $100 Amazon Gift Cards!
Clusiv, the world's first e-learning platform built by and for the blind is releasing our iOS app very soon! We are giving Top Tech Tidbits subscribers an exclusive opportunity to enter for a chance to win one of three $100 Amazon Gift Cards. Just register with Clusiv at:
https://clusiv.io/conference/
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Tidbit for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Why Are There Now Two "Outlook For Windows"? (6.4% of all clicks.)
Microsoft is hyping a new "Outlook for Windows" as a coming replacement to the familiar Windows program giving both the same "Outlook for Windows" name even though the two programs are completely different and the proposed replacement is quite crippled:
https://office-watch.com/2022/why-two-outlook-windows/
B.) Reader Review: 6-in-1 Multi-Opener (6.2% of all clicks.)
Courtesy of Award Winning Sight Loss Coach, Advocate and Author Donna Jodhan, Top Tech Tidbits reader:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/129.html
C.) How to Fix the Most Annoying Bluetooth Headphone Problems | Wired (6.0% of all clicks.)
Wireless headphones and earbuds are convenient, but they come with a host of tricky troubleshooting problems. Here's how to fix them all:
https://www.wired.com/story/bluetooth-headphone-troubleshooting-tips/
D.) Transcribing Audio With Word Online And A Screen Reader (5.9% of all clicks.)
Here is an article from Kelly Ford on making text transcripts using Word Online and a screen reader:
http://theideaplace.net/transcribing-audio-with-word-online-and-a-screen-reader/
E.) How to Control Your iPhone With Your Apple Watch (5.7% of all clicks.)
In WatchOS 9, Apple includes a feature that allows you to control your iPhone with your Apple Watch. Learn how it works:
https://www.macrumors.com/how-to/control-iphone-with-apple-watch/
2) Sponsorship Package Updates
There are no Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Packages currently available. If you would like to support Top Tech Tidbits by becoming a Sponsor in the future please add your name to our waiting list today by sending an email to our Publisher at the address below. We will add your name to the list, let you know what position you currently hold within it, and then notify you the moment a package becomes available. There are currently three future Sponsors on the waiting list:
publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️
3) Premium Subscriber Updates
Premium Subscribers are entitled to all back issues, anytime they sign up. All available back issues will be sent to you via email within 24 hours of purchasing your subscription. Premium Subscribers will receive their 3rd Volume of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits for October, November and December 2022 on Monday, January 2nd 2023. If you would like to receive a perfectly formatted and searchable Word Document with each of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits of the last 3 months listed neatly within it, please consider joining us today for just $1 a month:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/premium-subscribers.html
4) Top Tech Tidbits Publisher Updates for November 10th 2022
Updates this week include: (1) Attention Top Tech Tidbits Sponsors. Top Tech Tidbits To Transition All Future Sponsorship Renewals From One-Time Payments To Subscriptions At Your Request. Everything You Need To Know. | (2) Top Tech Tidbits "Cleans" Mailing List This Week To Remove 438 Subscribers Listed As "Suspended" | (3) A Word About CAPTCHA And Our Inability To Completely Remove It From The Top Tech Tidbits Subscription Process:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/132.html
5) Access Information News Publisher Updates For November 14th 2022
I know that many of you were waiting to find out just how many readers were going to stay on with the new Access Information News publication so I wanted to include this update in Tidbits ahead of the next issue just to keep everyone in the loop. Answers to all of your questions here:
https://www.accessinformationnews.com/1.html
6) JAWS Power Tip: Using Smart Glance
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/130.html
7) Reader Review: azzCardfile Personal Information Manager (PIM)
Dear Tidbits Readers. One of the applications that I always loved during these past 15 to 20 years is the azzCardfile Personal Information Manager (PIM) database. Basically its a simple freeform database that can be used for many different things / ideas. For example I have a personal telephone directory. I also have a database file with a lot of tips and tricks that I learned during my life about computers and if you like you can use it as a picture album because it supports the insertion of pictures directly into the cards:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/131.html
8) iOS 16.2 To Introduce 'Custom Accessibility Mode' With Streamlined Experience For iPhone And iPad
This update to the iOS interface, now in beta, seeks to simplify the user experience for users:
https://9to5mac.com/2022/11/08/ios-16-2-custom-accessibility-mode/
9) A Look At The October 2022 Games Accessibility Conference
This article summarizes the topics and themes covered in this year's conference for accessible video games:
https://www.eurogamer.net/a-look-at-this-octobers-games-accessibility-conference
10) Zoom Boosts Accessibility With Sign Language Interpretation View
Meeting hosts can now designate a live sign language translation professional to appear in a dedicated view during a zoom meeting:
https://www.uctoday.com/unified-communications/zoom-boosts-accessibility-with-sign-language-interpretation-view/
11) Do You Use Aira's Intuit Small Business Offer?
If you use Aira's Intuit Small Business offer to assist with visual tasks for your business they'd like to feature your story in their holiday shopping webinar. You can complete the form at:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScuOnJ1vGGu7-DblVZ4eBTLAv7exyYxKfbrlOYVRpnuX-gdIw/viewform?usp=sf_link
12) PowerToys 0.64 Launches With File Locksmith And Hosts File Editor
Microsoft has released PowerToys 0.64 Stable to the public. The new version of the open source tools collection for Windows includes two new programs and other changes:
https://www.ghacks.net/2022/11/03/powertoys-0-64-launches-with-file-locksmith-and-hosts-file-editor/
13) NV Access In-Process For November 3rd 2022
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-3rd-november-2022/
14) The 27 Best Mac Apps That Will Make Your Life Easier | Wired
MacOS may be the apple of your eye, but some of its stock apps are a little rotten. Take a bite of these third-party apps instead:
https://www.wired.com/story/best-mac-apps/
15) How To Speed Up Working On A Mac Using Custom Keyboard Shortcuts
Keyboard shortcuts don't stop at Command-Z, Command-C, and Command-V. Here's how to create your own keyboard shortcuts in every version of macOS:
https://appleinsider.com/inside/mac/tips/speed-up-working-on-a-mac-using-custom-keyboard-shortcuts
16) The 6 Best Speech-to-Text Apps for Note-Taking
Speech-to-text apps are the best way to take notes on the go. They can also save you time. Here are some of the best ones to use:
https://www.makeuseof.com/best-speech-to-text-apps/
➜ Surveys
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related survey for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-survey or locate "Survey Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Surveys | APH
Closes: Ongoing Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
2) Survey | Programming Workspace Accessibility for Blind Individuals
Closes: November 17th 2022 A research team composed of blind and sighted scholars at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is conducting exploratory research on blind individuals' interactions with accessible programming workspaces and their approach towards comprehending and navigating code. In this context, an individual's level of visual impairment is based on The U.S. legal definition of blindness: visual acuity of not greater than 20/200 in the better eye with correction or a field not subtending an angle greater than 20 degrees. The expected value of this study is that we will get a better sense of the following topics based on blind programmers; experiences, which will in turn scientifically highlight the existing accessibility of programming workspaces and the opportunities to improve them to support blind programmers: The common accessibility issues of blind programmers. The patterns of interaction between blind programmers and the accessibility tools used to code. The level of navigability, glanceability, alertability, and discoverability the popular accessible programming workspaces have. Participants' personal information and data such as name, email, age, etc. collected from the interview will be systematically removed from the final results used to conduct analysis in order to make sure researchers will not disclose any of your personal information without your permission as well as skew the analysis. The research team would like to invite blind individuals to participate in an online interview consisting of two sections: a questionnaire regarding past coding experience and an interactive coding session. This will allow researchers to further investigate how blind programmers code and interact with technologies and tools. Participants will receive a $20 Amazon gift card upon completing the one-hour interview and coding activity. Eligible participants for the online interview are those: self-identifying themselves as an individual who is blind; age 18 or older; having any level of programming experience; having familiarity with Python, Java, C++ or C programming languages; having experience with screen readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, ORCA, etc. If you are interested in participating, or have a question, please contact our research team at:rshah257@illinois.edu 📧️
3) Survey | The Byte Size Training Tech Website Feedback Survey
Closes: November 18th 2022 This survey is where individuals with disabilities can provide feedback relating to the Byte Size Training Tech website and suggest improvements. Here is a link to the Byte Size Training Tech website at https://bytesizetrainingtech.com:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeJ1gqw4KFOduexJc5HY-nyGrybfODQhGLpJBP9gQ9wVL8swg/viewform?usp=sf_link
4) Survey | PDF User Survey
Closes: November 30th 2022 Equidox Software Company provides PDF accessibility software and services and is conducting a survey of blind and low-vision adults who are assistive technology users. The goal is to gain information about the real experience of people who use assistive technology to access PDF documents. Tammy Albee, who created this survey, worked at the NFB national office for four years with Scott White, Director of NFB-NEWSLINE. Ms. Albee now works for Equidox and hopes to submit the results of this survey to the Journal of Blindness Innovation. The information will also be used to advocate for accessibility in government, education, and private enterprise organizations, presented at conferences, and made available on the Equidox website. The survey has 15 questions and will take about 10-15 minutes to complete. All responses and emails will be kept completely anonymous. If you have questions about this survey, please contact Tammy@equidox.co. The deadline for participation is November 30, 2022. To learn more about Equidox, please visit https://equidox.co/. You may complete the survey here:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/nfbaffiliate
XX) Survey | Tennessee Specialized Services Survey
Closes: November 30th 2022 If you are or were a vocational rehabilitation client in the state of Tennessee, please complete this survey for Blind Citizens of Tennessee. Those who have tried to get basic licensing, assistive technology, orientation and mobility, and braille skills in Tennessee know that our state is a desert of services. This survey will assist the Blind Citizens of Tennessee in their research to determine the need for a standalone training facility for the blind in Tennessee:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd3lOO_LLUTFEZtqb1mrW0LfOiO2ZQwVuw5JwJLpeTE_TZ9tg/viewform?usp=sf_link
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Podcast Episode for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-podcast-episode or locate "Podcast Episode Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Insights & Sound Bites Podcast Episode 1: Survive, Adapt, Overcome
October 28th 2022 | Larry shares how he found strength in his core beliefs to get him through the shock of his initial diagnosis:
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/insights-sound-bites/survive-adapt-overcome
2) iCantCU Podcast Episode 204: Tech Difficulties And Being Blind Doesn't Help
November 3rd 2022 | In this episode of iCantCU, I talk about various technical issues that have cropped up. The biggest one being with HostGator, our web host. Multiple down time over the past month has caused fewer visitors to iCantCU.com and fewer downloads of the podcast. Migrating to a new host will bring new issues and questions about their accessibility. I also talk about a problem with Facebook while using larger text:
https://www.iCantCU.com/204
3) Mosen at Large Episode 205: My Most Bizarre Windows Experience Ever, The Real-World Impact Of iOS Bugs, How To Maintain Maximum iPhone Battery Health For Years, And Audiobooks On The BlindShell Classic 2
4) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 100: The Centurion Celebration
November 5th 2022 | We first open with some fireworks as this is our 100th episode celebration and welcome our listeners. We then thanked all our listeners, donators, web developers for their valuable efforts and time. Then the listeners who joined us for our celebration introduced themselves. The discussion started from Guided Camera Frame available on Pixel 7 and later Samsung phones. It then moved to Android and Windows and then the Commentary Screen Reader vs Talkback debate. We then discussed TTS and Android losing ETI Eloquence in Android 14 as Eloquence is a 32-bit app, also the listeners spoke about the possible names of Android 14, and Upside-Down Cake was the winner. The podcast then concluded with which phone has the best audio speakers and other audio features. To listen to the podcast, visit our website or click on:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqqBEQR-ibKA2pfu0BjzGMBn
5) Eyes on Success Episode 2245: Waymap Navigation System
November 9th 2022 | The Waymap app was designed to assist visually impaired people navigate transportation systems in cities around the world. Requiring no signals, the app is accurate down to 1 meter both indoors and outdoors. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with CEO Tom Pey about the motivation for developing the app, how it works, and their plans to expand its use:
http://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show_notes_2245.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Webinar, Training Course or Event for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-event or locate "Webinar / Training Course Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) The Many Faces of BARD | Maryland State Library Agency
November 10th 2022 | 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 12AM GMT on 11/11 | The topic for the November The Many Faces of BARD program will be the new features in BARD Mobile 2.0 for iOS. The program is on November 10, 7:00 p.m. Eastern time and will last for one hour and be recorded. If participants do not want to be on the recording, they should refrain from speaking. The session will begin with a brief presentation. The remainder of the time will be spent answering questions about the presentation or other questions related to BARD. The session may be joined by going to the link below on a computer or calling +1 (669) 245-5252 📱️. Full Zoom invitation information follows. To call into a session, participants must use the telephone numbers provided here for Zoom.gov rather than the regular Zoom telephone numbers. One tap mobile: US: +16692545252,,1619486122# or +16468287666,,1619486122# | Meeting ID: 161 948 6122 | Passcode: 112643:
https://loc.zoomgov.com/j/1619486122?pwd=VVhxNkk1SGJlNHJXVFRtNUo5V3loZz09
2) Usability and Accessibility for Digital Marketers — Delight Your Audience With Inclusive UX
November 10th 2022 | Presenters: Digital Marketing Institute, TPGi's Principal UX David Swallow, TPGi's UX Practice Manager David Sload, and Marketing Educator and Author Will Francis. Digital channels provide an opportunity for you to effectively reach and grow your target audience, communicate with them, provide information, build brand relationships, and enable transactions. The related concepts of usability and accessibility address the importance of removing barriers to efficient, effective, and enjoyable digital interactions for all users, including users with disabilities. When barriers are present, we risk brand damage, losing our audience to competitors, and potentially unlawful discrimination against people with disabilities. But how can we ensure usable and accessible digital experiences? To mark World Usability Day 2022, accessibility and user experience specialists David Swallow and David Sloan will make the argument that a focus on the needs of people with disabilities can help digital marketers deliver better user experiences for everyone. We'll define key concepts of usability, accessibility, and inclusive design and provide practical tips that everyone involved in digital marketing can apply in their work to make their digital experiences more accessible and usable:
https://www.bigmarker.com/digital-marketing-institute/Usability-and-Accessibility-for-Digital-Marketers-Delight-Your-Audience-with-Inclusive-UX
3) National Federation of the Blind of Maryland 2022 Annual Convention
November 11th 2022 to November 14th 2022 | Get ready for a weekend of fun and fellowship. Come and be part of celebrating our accomplishments and planning for the future! Place: Sheraton Baltimore North Hotel, 903 Dulaney Valley Road, Towson, MD 21204. Meet our keynote speaker and National Representative, Donald Porterfield, President of the NFB of Arizona, Board Member of the NFB, and a criminal prosecutor. Explore opportunities through special workshops for parents and teachers of blind children, blind merchants and entrepreneurs, and students. Check out our technology workshops and more. Examine new products at the exhibit hall on Friday. Help us raise expectations for ourselves and for officials who manage services for the blind:
https://nfbmd.org/convention/2022
4) NaviLens | Computer Science & Technology Division | NFB of SC
November 12th 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | The Computer Science & Technology Division (CSTD) of the NFB of SC invites everyone to a presentation from NaviLens on Saturday, November 12, 2022 at 11:00 AM Eastern. Oran McAllister from NaviLens will join us for a presentation to tell us all about the app and what it does! Below is the Zoom information you will need to join us and a brief description of the app! NFB of SC Zoom. | Meeting ID: 803 254 3777 | Passcode: 124578 | One tap mobile: +19292056099,,8032543777# US (New York) | +13017158592,,8032543777# US (Germantown) | Dial by your location: +1 929 205 6099 US (New York) | NaviLens is a high-density artificial markers system for long distance reading. The tags generated by this system are designed in order to be read from a long distance, without the need of focusing and even in motion. This makes them useful for blind and low vision people. Join here:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8032543777?pwd=QTVQd2RzN3l6QnNmZ0FmSnp6NG8vQT09
5) Getting in Touch with Literacy | Conversations Session Five — Joyful Journey of Stories in a Virtual World | Paths To Literacy
November 14th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | While we wait to gather again in-person in 2023, we invite you to participate in a series of virtual conversations. These virtual sessions will capture the spirit of in-person interactions with robust conversations using a variety of breakout rooms and other online meeting tools. This fifth virtual "Conversations on Literacy: Content and Connections" will be a Joyful Journey of Stories in a Virtual World. Join Gwyn McCormack, from the United Kingdom, to discuss how to make literacy opportunities for families simple, possible, and doable using a multi-sensory approach in a virtual environment. Gwyn uses her many years of experience as a Qualified Teacher of the Visually Impaired (QTVI) and Head of Service to deliver imaginative and creative approaches, within easy-to-use frameworks. She founded Positive Eye in 2008, to provide practical courses and a range of resources for practitioners working with children and young people with vision impairments. Gwyn is also collaborating with the Deafblind Projects in the Southeast and Midwest States (USA) to bring Sparkly Story Shows to hundreds of children and their families. These Story Time Shows are strengthening the literacy outcomes for children with complex learning needs. Join us November 14, 2022, to learn more about these exciting projects. Register now:
https://www.pathstoliteracy.org/getting-in-touch-with-literacy/
6) Bytesize Training Tech Q and A Session
November 14th 2022 | 3PM PT, 4PM MT, 5PM CT, 6PM ET, 11PM GMT | This event is where I will be discussing the assistive technology training services that Byte Size Training Tech offers. In addition, there will be a Q and A session where participants will be able to have their questions answered:
https://www.clubhouse.com/event/MOXB7G84?utm_medium=ch_event&utm_campaign=pm-MMIuRiLSoGzDrb2BVkg-438223
7) Interactive Webinar: Windows Narrator: Not Just Another Voice In The Crowd | The Lighthouse For The Blind, Inc.
November 16th 2022 | 6PM PT, 7PM MT, 8PM CT, 9PM ET, 2AM GMT on 11/17 | Where: Online or via phone. Join us for a webinar about Windows Narrator! Windows Narrator is over 20 years old. There have been drastic improvements to this screen reader over the past several years, and this free screen reader is quickly becoming a recognizable voice in the crowd. Come explore some of narrators features, learn to maximize functionality, compare narrator to other leading screen readers, and ask questions during this interactive webinar from The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. Sign up via Eventbrite or reach out to Tim Paulding at (208) 771-4901 📱️ or TPaulding@LHBlind.org 📧️. Meet The Hosts: Timothy Paulding is the Services and Instructional Manager at The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. He has served in the blindness rehabilitation field for over ten years as a computer and assistive technology instructor and orientation and mobility specialist. He believes that people who are blind can be as independent as they want to be, given proper opportunity and training. Tim has masters degrees in Blindness and Low Vision Studies from Western Michigan University and is dual certified in orientation and mobility and vision rehabilitation therapy. Tim is a drummer and keyboard player and lives with his wife and children in Spokane Valley, Washington. Everett Elam, CATIS, is a computer and assistive technology instructor at The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. Prior to serving at the Lighthouse, Everett worked for a year in St. Louis, Missouri in the k-12 arena and also created and managed a curriculum for Assistive Technology Training. He has served in a variety of roles in the blindness rehabilitation field. He is a technology enthusiast who is passionate about helping people who are blind to reach their fullest potential. Everett believes that learning should be tailored to the learner, easy to apply in real world situations, and should most definitely be fun. In his free time, Everett is an award winning fiddle player and marathon runner and lives in Spokane, Washington. Click here to register:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/windows-narrator-not-just-another-voice-in-the-crowd-tickets-454175780987
8) Zoom Meeting for JAWS: Getting Help & Accessing Existing Training Materials | Access Ingenuity
November 16th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Get to know the various tools, help menu options, and free training materials that already exist with JAWS. Join Rachel Reeves, Marisa Church, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity to discover ways you can get assistance with concepts, commands, exercises, additional web resources, and more. Learning Outcomes: Various help tools of JAWS, including Keyboard Help, Screen Sensitive Help, etc. Additional help from the help menu includes the manual, web resources, and free training. Free training web resources include the Freedom Scientific Training YouTube channel, Free Webinars Training page, Surf's Up Training website, etc. | Meeting ID: 886 5246 9982 | Passcode: 215449 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,88652469982#,,,,*215449# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose). Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88652469982?pwd=WnB6L21JbnZwZEpMMEJVM0N2K3VuUT09#success
9) Live and Virtual Technology Fair | Carroll Center for the Blind
November 22nd 2022 | The Carroll Center for the Blind's in person Technology Fair is back! 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. The Technology Fair is free and open to consumers, families, friends, and professionals:
https://carroll.org/events/live-and-virtual-technology-fair/
10) ACB's 2022 Audio Description Awards Gala
November 29 2022 | The American Council of the Blind (ACB) proudly announces the second annual Audio Description Awards Gala on November 29, 2022. The Gala will once again celebrate outstanding achievements in audio description in media and expand awareness of its benefits. In recent years there has been enormous success in expanding audio description for audiences who are blind, low vision, or have other sensory disabilities that create barriers to full inclusion in visual media. "The Audio Description Awards Gala will celebrate the best of the best within the art and science of inclusive audio-described media," said Eric Bridges, ACB's Executive Director. "Together we will work to expand awareness of the transformative value that audio description brings to the lives of people with disabilities:"
https://acb.org/save-the-date-2022-AD-Awards
11) PDF Accessibility Training for Organizations | Access Ingenuity
November 30th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Creating accessible PDF documents is essential for most organizations' digital accessibility process. However, organizations often struggle to get their staff trained and efficient at creating accessible PDFs and other accessible digital content. The first step is identifying document creators within the organization and the types of documents they're developing. Depending on the findings, standard and advanced PDF accessibility training may be required. Join Michael Parker from Access Ingenuity to review lessons we learned from creating digital accessibility training and how to apply them to your organization. Learning Outcomes: Understand the components of a comprehensive PDF accessibility training program. Understand the importance of creating accessible templates and using accessible color palettes. Breaking the training down into manageable chunks - from beginners to advanced users. Meeting ID: 883 8806 6414 | Passcode: 878053 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,88388066414#,,,,*878053# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose). Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88388066414?pwd=RU9tQU02ZDlRVjZzWlpwZHVGZjBSUT09
12) Blind Health Expo | The Accessible Pharmacy
December 2nd 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | The Accessible Pharmacy Blind Health Expo will be the largest virtual expo of healthcare information, products, services, and medication for individuals who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision. Join thousands of other attendees and register now for free!
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/blind-health-expo/
13) 2022 Sight Tech Global — Shaping New Technologies to Create a More Accessible World for People with Blindness and Visual Impairments
December 7th 2022 and December 8th 2022 | Sponsored by Google, APH, Amazon, Humanware, Microsoft, Fable, LinkedIn, and Waymo, 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. Register for free:
https://sighttechglobal.com/
14) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
December 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
15) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 3: Creative Manual Activities for Christmas | APH
December 12th 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Christmas is a great time to create crafts. Let's share amazing and fun tactile ideas adapted to visually impaired children:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
16) Training Course: Catching Up with JAWS Chapter 4 for JAWS 2022 and 2023 | Hartgen Consultancy
December 14th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | Catching Up with JAWS is priced £35 which is approximately 40 American dollars. Now is your chance to get some high quality training on some of the latest features within the screen-reader JAWS for Windows which have been introduced over the past two years. This follows on from our previous popular training courses on this subject. These training courses are still popular and people are purchasing the older volumes in the series even today:
https://www.hartgen.org/catchup4
17) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 4: Braille Around the World | APH
January 4th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Let's celebrate Louis Braille's Day and explore different braille codes around the world:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
18) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 5: School Aged Numeracy | APH
February 1st 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Using LEGO Braille Bricks to do math: let's discover some of the many uses of these little bricks to develop numerical and geometry skills, understand symmetry, and much more:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
19) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 6: Daily Living Activities | APH
March 6th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Let's explore daily-living activities using LEGO Braille Bricks and share our best practices, experiences, tips:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
20) 2023 3rd Annual Axe-Con | Building Accessible Experiences | The World's Largest Digital Accessibility Conference
March 15th 2022 and March 16th 2023 | Deque Systems, the trusted leader in digital accessibility, has announced the third annual axe-con conference will return on March 15-16th, 2023. With the success of axe-con over the past two years, Deque will continue to host the conference as a free virtual event again next year. 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:
https://www.deque.com/blog/save-the-date-for-axe-con-2023/
21) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 7: Music | APH
April 5th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Let's discover together how to make music with these famous bricks! Come and share your creative ideas:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
22) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 8: STEM | APH
May 3rd 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | Have you ever thought of doing science, computing, or technology with LEGO Braille Bricks? Expert guests will join us for an amazing session:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
23) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 9: Orientation & Mobility | APH
June 7th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | LEGO bricks to build plans, visualize routes, it's not new! But with LEGO Braille Bricks you can also create labels, add letters, words... Then it becomes really great:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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
✍ List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. Fill out this short form to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-buy-sell-trade or learn more on the Top Tech Tidbits website.
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: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Combine Learning And Gaming For A Fun Braille Adventure With Polly!
APH and Thinkerbell Labs are excited to introduce Polly, complete with customizable UEB lessons, songs, games, and stories! Join our waiting list to know when Polly is available:
https://www.aph.org/polly-wait-list/
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 Holiday Sales
Our holiday sales, with some deeply cut prices through December 31st. Leather Purse Blow Out: approximately 6 by 10 inches with a very stylish design; has 6 zippered pockets; and a great half moon pocket on the front. Lots of room for essentials - $20. Hands free leather neck pouch; great for AIRA or Be My Eyes; works great with BlindShell. Front: velcro pocket; two full size phone slots, with a full size pocket on the back; down from $20 to $15. Talking Medical bundle with case and accessible "how to" mp: files on sd card. 2nd gen talking oximeter, infrared thermometer, and BP meter. Tested in doctors' offices - $140.00. Call either Barry or Kae (617) 969-7500 📱️ or (781) 286-1696 📱️ for information or for orders.
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, affordable, 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
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: That Real Blind Tech Show
➜ That Real Blind Tech Show Episode 96: We Got More Resolutions, ACB Style!
It's a fully packed That Real Blind Tech show lair. Join us as we recap this year's ACB Resolutions. We chime in with all of our opinions about this year's resolutions, and as usual some hilarity ensues. You will not want to miss both AirPods issues that take place on this episode. We are adding do not listen to That Real Blind Tech show on the bus as we are not responsible for the stares you will receive when laughing or cackling like a lunatic!
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-96-we-got-more-resolutions-acb-style
Sponsor Since: August 11th 2022
Website: https://blindtechshow.com/ 🌐
Email: ThatRealBlindTechShow@gmail.com 📧️
Social: Facebook Page | Facebook Group | Twitter
Listen: Apple Podcasts | Audible | Google Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube
Hosts: Brian Fischler | Ed Plumacher | Allison Meloy | Jenine Stanley
Goals: We want to educate you on the latest tech for the blindness community. You'll learn what is worth keeping and what you need to return. Our goals are: To inform, inspire and educate our audience. Feature guests and products that bring you value. Continuously improve and deliver the best content.
About: A podcast discussing the good & bad of assistive technology for the low vision & totally blind. No longer focused on just Apple VoiceOver technology. That Real Blind Tech show covers all the fantastic talking tech and gadgets out there for the low vision and blindness community. Common topics include Apple's VoiceOver, JAWS, Microsoft Narrator, NVDA, Amazon Alexa and VoiceView, Google Assistant and Android. Basically, if a device can talk to you, we are going to be talking about it. That Real Blind Tech Show will not only educate you, but it will also make you laugh. Listeners are encouraged to not use treadmills or drink hot coffee while listening to our show, or accidents can and have occurred. Dishes have been broken while listening to That Real Blind Tech Show, and while we are responsible for the laughs, we are in no way responsible for the injuries or bills that pile up. Remember to keep it Real and also don't believe anything you hear on That Real Blind Tech Show.
Home | Episodes | Blog | Contact | Subscribe
Sponsor: Aira
➜ Webinar: Discovering Aira and Content Creation | October 25th 2022 at 2:00 PM ET
Creating content for the ever-expanding media world is a growing profession. During #NDEAM2022 we want to spotlight how blind and low vision people are working in this space. Whether for income or personal brand, these creators integrate visual interpreting into their processes. We'll also get advice from Aira Agents on how to make the most of visual interpreting when creating your content. Join us Tuesday, October 25th 2022 at 2:00pm Eastern time. Register at:
https://aira.zoom.us/webinar/register/9116639399059/WN_g9O7k3RaR7mYYT1ODnm0cA
Sponsor Since: August 4th 2022
Website: https://aira.io/ 🌐
Download the App: Apple App Store | Google Play Store
Plans and Pricing: https://aira.io/pricing/
Phone: NA: +1.800.835.1934 📱️ | AU: +1.800.765.096 📱️ | UK: +0.800.046.5668 📱️ | NZ: +1.800.425.451 📱️
Text Message: NA: +1.858.242.4457 📲 | AU: +61.488.839.767 📲 | UK: +44.149.320.2474 📲
Email: support@aira.io 📧️
Social: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
About: Aira's mission is to remove barriers and make the world more accessible with visual interpreting.
We provide a live, human-to-human professional assistance service, an accommodation or productivity tool, that enhances independence by delivering on-demand, skilled and reliable visual interpreting for just about any task. Using the powerful combination of a camera and the Aira app on someone's device of 'choice', a professionally-trained agent will assist by visually interpreting what is in the camera's view or on screen, from describing to reading, from explaining to navigating - just about anything, safely and securely. Aira supports a growing range of devices including smart and tactile button phones, desktop computers and soon, wearables.
Whether you are involved in the work of business, the work of school or the work of life, Aira enhances everyday efficiency, engagement, and independence. Used by employees and customers of hundreds of organizations including airports, banks, the largest software companies, financial firms, retailers and universities, we invite you to join the community, access the Aira app today and try it for free.
https://aira.io/download-and-try-it/
Step One: Subscribe and Download. Pick the plan that lets you explore on your terms and on your time, sign up in a few minutes, and download the Aira app to your smartphone. Plans shown are for the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Add or cancel at any time.
Step Two: Connect with an Aira Agent. On the first call, connect with one of our certified, specially-trained Agents and learn how everything works.
Step Three: Real-time Assistance. At the touch of a button, Aira delivers instant access to visual information, when and where you want it.
Sponsor: Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
➜ Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore: Touch Tomorrow in Today's Products
Serving blind people since 1999, we're a family-owned, forward-thinking company offering both tried-and-true and exciting new products for blind and low vision consumers. We design and carry self-voicing educational software, Braille supplies, talking gadgets, adapted household items, tactile card and board games, audible toys and gift ideas. Passionate about innovation, we've also created dozens of products from scratch when a suitable solution did not exist. Shop online at http://www.braillebookstore.com/ and enjoy fast, free shipping.
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: http://www.braillebookstore.com/ 🌐
Phone (Toll Free): (800) 987-1231 📱️
Fax (Toll Free): (800) 985-1231 ░
Email: Sales@BrailleBookstore.com 📧️
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time.
About: Welcome to Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore. We have been supplying products to blind people and their families since 1999. We offer thousands of Braille books, toys, games, kitchen aids, and talking products. We have unbeatable prices, fast, free shipping, and great customer service! We have tons of Braille books and cool products to choose from; so grab a cup of coffee, relax, and we'll give you a quick tour:
Products:
➜ Timekeeping
➜ Housewares
➜ On The Go
➜ Low Vision Products
➜ Toys and Games
➜ Gift Shop
➜ Braille Workshop
➜ Braille Bookstore
➜ Greeting Cards
➜ Copy Center
➜ Computer Lab
➜ Popular Products
➜ New Products
If you need some fresh ideas or have questions, you can also check out our Shopping Guides.
Sponsor: Fable
➜ Free and Accessible Training for the Tech Sector
Fable Pathways helps you gain the skills that you need to work in the tech sector with a free, accessible, and on-demand program. Learn from industry leaders with disabilities to take your career to the next level, like Kelly Ford, Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, who introduces GitHub and VS Code using a screen reader. Spend less time and energy trying to access courses with your assistive technology and focus on the content that matters to you, with Fable Pathways' accessible platform. Sign up today!
https://www.fablepathways.com/
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: https://fablepathways.com/ 🌐
Email: community@makeitfable.com 📧️
Phone: (888) 212-3532 📱️ Extension 810
About: Just like curb cuts help everyone get on and off sidewalks, designing digital products with accessibility in mind helps make the internet more accessible for everyone. Fable is an accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities. Fable connects people with disabilities to accessibility managers, user researchers, designers, and developers to build incredible and accessible user experiences.
Opportunities:
➜ Fable Pathways: Fable Pathways is a free skill development program for people with disabilities interested in working in the tech sector. Sign up to take your career to the next level. Courses include "Getting started in web development" taught by Kelly Ford, a screen reader user, and Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, and "Becoming a manager" taught by Fable's Head of Accessibility Innovation, Kate Kalcevich. Instructors are subject matter experts in their fields and have lived experience with disability. Pathways courses are free, self-paced and assistive-technology-friendly. Sign up now at https://fablepathways.com/.
➜ Fable's Community of Accessibility Testers: Work from home to contribute to real changes in digital accessibility and make the internet a more accessible place for everyone. Ever leave a website because it was too hard to navigate? Because it was missing button labels? Because it didn't respond to voice commands? Us too. Our community of testers who use assistive technologies work from home and contribute to real changes in digital accessibility with recognizable brands. Earn money to share your feedback on websites and apps of your favorite brands and work with companies that care. No experience required and no resume required. Fable is looking for assistive technology users in the USA and Canada to work the hours that they want, from the comfort of their own homes. Learn more at https://fablepathways.com/community/.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ Dolphin Friends Program
If you work for a non-profit, charity or society that provides services to people with visual impairments, we invite you to take part in our Dolphin Friends Program. Dolphin will outfit your center with assistive technology solutions that can benefit your clients who need to remain independent, are trying to sharpen their technology skills for employment and more. Learn more about becoming a Dolphin Friend:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/join-dolphin-friends
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Sponsor: Clusiv
➜ Looking For Blind Job-Seekers Wanting To Advance Their Salaries, Careers And Digital Accessibility For The Blind
Are you interested in learning new tech skills and working remotely while earning a competitive salary? At Clusiv.io we have created the world's first digitally accessible e-Learning platform built by the blind, and built for the blind. Visit the link provided and request Clusiv through your Vocational Rehab counselor for lifetime access to our e-Learning platform with courses such as Business Applications, JAWS, and more:
https://clusiv.io/
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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 from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Control the climate of your home independently! The VIP 3000 is a universal heating — cooling talking thermostat This accessible digital thermostat is specifically designed to offer audio playback of indoor temperature, temperature settings and programming instructions so blind and visually impaired users can independently & precisely manage their indoor comfort. Don't over pay. Read more at:
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 every day 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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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 Next Generation in Accessibility
Need to quickly access a distant computer with minimal fuss? Need to quickly convert image documents into readable text? Today's students and working professionals demand more of their technology. Employers expect more of their workforce. Pneuma Solutions is bridging the gap using the best in machine learning to connect you to your environment when you need it, how you need it. Give us a try, and experience accessibility on a whole new level:
https://pneumasolutions.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
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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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!
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/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
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.
Your Name Here
0 of 18 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are currently 0 of 18 packages available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, November 3, 2022 - Volume 883
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.
Subscribers: 7,543 Opt-In Subscribers were sent this issue via email. 153 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: NDEAM2022 Employment Is Empowerment With Aira
Aira is a service that provides blind and low vision people access to trained visual interpreters through our app, now available on smart phones, computers and wearables. Hiring blind and low vision people whose native skills, coupled with ready access to assistive technology is having an impact. For both job candidates and employees who are blind or low vision, Aira's professional visual interpreting is a 'ready for work' tool to remove barriers throughout the employment lifecycle — from job seeking and recruitment, interviewing and hiring processes, through onboarding and training, to retention and career development. Our application gives people control of the assistance they need, on their terms. Subscribe to our RSS feed to stay up-to-date. Check out our podcast, Airacast. Or contact us +1 (800) 835-1934 📱️ or support@aira.io 📧️. Learn more today at:
https://aira.io
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Tidbit for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Announcing The See The World Through Your Ears App (9.2% of all clicks.)
A new and first of its kind spatial audio navigation app, See the World Through Your Ears is now available for Android and iOS. The app requires bone conduction headphones for proper and safe use.
Download link for iOS:
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/waveout/id1496541182
Download link for Android:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=io.dreamwaves.waveout
B.) Apple Releases iOS 16.1 And iPadOS 16.1 Bringing Many Fixes for VoiceOver Users | AppleVis (7.3% of all clicks.)
Apple has released iOS 16.1 and iPadOS 16.1 to the public. Our testing suggests that these releases resolve a number of the issues introduced for blind and low vision users with the initial release of iOS 16:
https://www.applevis.com/blog/apple-releases-ios-161-ipados-161-bringing-many-fixes-voiceover-users
C.) How to Extract the Text From Any Image | Wired (5.6% of all clicks.)
Whether it's for accessibility or research purposes, you have lots of tools to work with here:
https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-extract-text-from-any-image/
D.) What's New in JAWS 2023 Screen Reading Software | Freedom Scientific (5.2% of all clicks.)
Windows on ARM and better access to Windows Notifications are among the enhancements:
https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/JAWS/JAWSWhatsNew#Enhancements
E.) Collection of Third Party Sites Offering JAWS Scripts | David Goldfield | Tech-VI List (5.0% of all clicks.)
A few days ago someone posted a message to the JAWS for Windows (JFW) discussion group asking for addresses of websites which offer free or paid scripts to be used with the JAWS screen reader. I responded to this message by providing a list of such sites which were known to me. I am reposting my response to the Tech-VI list in case this information might be of interest or value:
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/2839
2) Sponsorship Package Updates
There are no Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Packages currently available. If you would like to support Top Tech Tidbits by becoming a Sponsor in the future please add your name to our waiting list today by sending an email to our Publisher at the address below. We will add your name to the list, let you know what position you currently hold within it, and then notify you the moment a package becomes available. There are currently three future Sponsors on the waiting list:
publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️
3) Premium Subscriber Updates
Premium Subscribers are entitled to all back issues, anytime they sign up. All available back issues will be sent to you via email within 24 hours of purchasing your subscription. Premium Subscribers will receive their 3rd Volume of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits for October, November and December 2022 on Monday, January 2nd 2023. If you would like to receive a perfectly formatted and searchable Word Document with each of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits of the last 3 months listed neatly within it, please consider joining us today for just $1 a month:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/premium-subscribers.html
4) An Open Letter To All Top Tech Tidbits Readers. We Need Your Help. Top Tech Tidbits To Spin Off Access Information News Section As Standalone Publication Beginning November 7th 2022. Everything You Need To Know.
If you missed this announcement last week we invite you to catch up using the link below. For those of you in the know you will notice that this issue of Tidbits is quite a bit shorter than usual. That's because this is the very first issue of Tidbits that does not include the "Access Information News" section. On November 7th 2022 this section will be published independently for the very first time. You will now receive it on Monday mornings at 4:00 AM and gain the ability to opt out of receiving it without affecting your Top Tech Tidbits subscription. That said, we sincerely hope you'll stick around, as we've got some really great things planned. In the meantime, can we all take a moment to enjoy a leaner and more focused Top Tech Tidbits this week? Hard-liners rejoice! Catch up here:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/128.html
5) Reader Review: 6-in-1 Multi-Opener
Courtesy of Award Winning Sight Loss Coach, Advocate and Author Donna Jodhan, Top Tech Tidbits reader:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/129.html
6) Ask Alexa
A.) Alexa knows when all the important dates are throughout the year. Ask about holidays, big events, and more.
Just say, "Alexa, when is Hannukah?"
B.) The best music trivia for Alexa, Song Quiz offers you music from every decade: 2010s, 2000s, 90s, 80s, 70s, and 60s! Challenge your friends and family in live competitions or compete head to head against music fans across the country.
Just say, "Alexa, open Song Quiz."
C.) Living in a cloud of statistics, Alexa loves to make predictions.
Just say, "Alexa, what's your World Series prediction?"
D.) Apple Podcasts now syncs your listening across Apple and Alexa devices. Once Apple Podcasts is set as your default podcast provider, just ask Alexa to pause when you're on the go and resume once you've returned.
Just say, "Alexa, resume my podcast on Apple Podcast."
E.) Get pumped for some football with this playlist from Prime Video's Thursday Night Football.
Just say, "Alexa, play the Thursday Night Football playlist on Amazon Music."
7) Transcribing Audio With Word Online And A Screen Reader
Here is an article from Kelly Ford on making text transcripts using Word Online and a screen reader:
http://theideaplace.net/transcribing-audio-with-word-online-and-a-screen-reader/
8) Microsoft Makes It Easier To Use Pictures From Your Android Phone In Word Or PowerPoint
Here is an article on how one can insert images taken from their Android smartphone and insert them into their document:
https://www.theverge.com/2022/11/1/23435298/microsoft-office-web-apps-word-powerpoint-android-qr-code
9) Navigating Slack With The JAWS Screen Reader | A11y Tutorials | Slack
This is a series of tutorials for navigating Slack with a screen reader. Slack is a popular chat and collaboration tool used in the workplace:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWlXaxtQ7fUbLVoC2vLrELjD9VXb-YA_0
10) New Mix-And-Match Computer Accessories Give People With Disabilities Easier Ways To Work And Create
This describes the adaptive accessories from Microsoft that we have covered in previous issues and how they can be used:
https://news.microsoft.com/features/new-mix-and-match-computer-accessories-give-people-with-disabilities-easier-ways-to-work-and-create/
11) New Coding Tool Could Aid Computer Programmers Who Are Blind Or Have Low Vision
The tool, called Grid Editor, serves as a modification to traditional code editors that programmers use to add lines of code when updating features and functions in software. Prior work has focused on making different parts of the coding process more accessible for blind and low-vision users, such as reading or navigating code. Grid Editor is the first to place emphasis on code editing — an important step in making continuous updates to software, in which programmers edit and update existing code that was previously written by other programmers:
https://www.psu.edu/news/information-sciences-and-technology/story/new-coding-tool-could-aid-computer-programmers-who-are/
12) Sound Notifications in Android Now Detect Custom Sounds For Deaf Users
Sound Notifications, an accessibility feature in Android, was introduced in 2020 to identify sounds in and around households and notify deaf and hard of hearing users. Originally, it came with a limited number of sounds in its alert library but now users can add their own custom sounds to the alert library to get notified the next time they sound:
https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2022/11/sound-notifications-android-deaf.html
13) Identify Common Errors In Text With The VoiceOver Text Checker On MacOS | AppleVis
In this podcast, Tyler demonstrates the VoiceOver Text Checker on macOS, a feature that identifies common errors in typed text such as misspellings, repeated spaces, and misplaced capital letters:
https://www.applevis.com/podcasts/identify-common-errors-text-voiceover-text-checker-macos
14) How to Control Your iPhone With Your Apple Watch
In WatchOS 9, Apple includes a feature that allows you to control your iPhone with your Apple Watch. Learn how it works:
https://www.macrumors.com/how-to/control-iphone-with-apple-watch/
15) Recording: Episode 65: Introducing The SmartVision 3 Mobile Phone With Tony Shrubb | Sight and Sound Technology
The SmartVision 3, the only Google certified smartphone designed specifically for people with low or no vision has recently joined our product portfolio. This handset, which integrates Google's Talkback screen reader, offers three ways to control your smartphone and access information, including a tactile keypad. Stuart caught up with Tony Shrubb from our field sales team to find out all about it:
https://audioboom.com/posts/8180376-episode-65-introducing-the-smartvision-3-mobile-phone-with-tony-shrubb
16) A Bug in Apple MacOS Ventura Breaks Third-Party Security Tools | Wired | October 26th 2022
Your anti-malware software may not work if you upgraded to the new operating system. But Apple says a fix is on the way:
https://www.wired.com/story/apple-macos-ventura-bug-security-tools/
17) New SuperSense AI Listserv
A group to discuss all things SuperSense and Super Lidar. This group is designed for technical support, idea sharing, and all discussion related to SuperSense and Super Lidar. It will be monitored by members of the team to answer questions and start conversations, as well as occasionally provide special deals and offers to list members:
https://www.freelists.org/list/supersenseai
18) Why Are There Now Two "Outlook For Windows"?
Microsoft is hyping a new "Outlook for Windows" as a coming replacement to the familiar Windows program giving both the same "Outlook for Windows" name even though the two programs are completely different and the proposed replacement is quite crippled:
https://office-watch.com/2022/why-two-outlook-windows/
19) Too Many Microsoft Outlook's — We Explain Them All
Once upon a time there was just one "Microsoft Outlook" but these days there are at least ten current programs or services under the "Outlook" name — and two programs called "Outlook for Windows". That's before counting past versions that are still supported:
https://office-watch.com/2022/many-faces-of-microsoft-outlook/
20) Add An iCalendar .ics To An Outlook Calendar But Be Careful
Inserting an .ics iCalendar item into Outlook is typical Microsoft Office. Seemingly easy if you believe the simplistic 'help' from Redmond but a little more involved in practice. iCalendar .ics files are small text files which contain an appointment or event. It's a common standard so they can be used by Outlook or any other calendar software or online service. They can arrive via email (Outlook uses them to send appointments) or some booking sites (airlines, events etc.) have a link to an .ics. Or sent by more secure means like instant messaging, document attachment, USB memory stick etc:
https://office-watch.com/2022/add-icalendar-ics-outlook-calendar-be-careful/
21) Inside Smart Copy and Paste in Word
When Microsoft Word was first released, all those years ago, it had a Paste feature but it was dumb and literal. These days Word's Paste (Word for Windows and Word for Mac) is a lot smarter and does very useful things that you may not fully realize or appreciate:
https://office-watch.com/2022/word-smart-copy-and-paste/
22) Copying/Moving Footnotes or Endnotes in Word
There's a small but important point about Microsoft Word with Footnotes and Endnotes:
https://office-watch.com/2022/word-footnote-endnote-copy-move/
23) Paste Tricks And Tips For Microsoft Word
There's more to Paste in Word than just the keyboard shortcut. This article demystifies the many paste options in Word and offers workarounds for troublesome situations:
https://office-watch.com/2020/paste-in-microsoft-word/
24) Important Notice For Those Using Joseph Lee's Add-Ons With The NVDA Screen Reader | Tech-VI List
Joseph Lee's add-ons will require Windows 10 and later, effective January 3, 2023 (exception: Add-on Updater):
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/2884
25) Overview: 6dot Braille Label Maker | YouTube | Jim Rinehart, Assistive Technology Specialist, Easter Seals Crossroads
Jim Rinehart, Assistive Technology Specialist at Easter Seals Crossroads shows us the 6dot Braille Maker, which is a portable Braille label maker:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pt3HXHhZTk0
26) How to Fix the Most Annoying Bluetooth Headphone Problems | Wired
Wireless headphones and earbuds are convenient, but they come with a host of tricky troubleshooting problems. Here's how to fix them all:
https://www.wired.com/story/bluetooth-headphone-troubleshooting-tips/
27) Recording: Freedom Scientific Training Podcast: Ask Sharky: Navigate File Explorer in Windows 11 With JAWS | October 28th 2022
In this pre-recorded Clubhouse session, Elizabeth and Rachel talk about tips they recommend for using the File Explorer in Windows 11 with JAWS:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/freedom-scientific-training-podcast/id1521340640?i=1000584286949
28) First eSpeak-NG Beta for iOS Now Available
https://applevis.com/forum/ios-ipados/first-espeak-ng-beta-ios-now-available
29) Freedom Scientific Releases Version 2023 of JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion
New Smart Glance feature, enhancements to Notification History, support for ARM 64 devices, changes that fix a long-standing issue with some Dell computers, and Tethered View in ZoomText:
https://support.freedomscientific.com/About/News/Article/224
30) Freedom Scientific November 2022 Training Events
https://blog.freedomscientific.com/november-2022-training-events/
31) AppleVis Unlimited: What's New and Noteworthy for October 2022
https://www.applevis.com/newsletter/applevis-unlimited-whats-new-noteworthy-october-2022
➜ Surveys
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related survey for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-survey or locate "Survey Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Surveys | APH
Closes: Ongoing Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
2) Survey | The Byte Size Training Tech Website Feedback Survey
Closes: November 18th 2022 This survey is where individuals with disabilities can provide feedback relating to the Byte Size Training Tech website and suggest improvements. Here is a link to the Byte Size Training Tech website at https://bytesizetrainingtech.com:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeJ1gqw4KFOduexJc5HY-nyGrybfODQhGLpJBP9gQ9wVL8swg/viewform?usp=sf_link
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Podcast Episode for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-podcast-episode or locate "Podcast Episode Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Blind Abilities Podcast Episode 902: Tech Abilities: Through the Lens of Experience We Share Our Views on Apple Products, Upcoming Apple Services, White Cane Safety Day and Awareness to the People, Plus, Tech Tidbits and News from a Blindness Perspective
October 27th 2022 | Serina, Callie, Seyoon and Jeff chill out in the Blind Abilities Studio to bring you the Tech Abilities Show. From Avatars getting legs, Apple's new Savings plan, Air Tag battery replacement, new iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max for Seyoon and jeff, to Air Friers being Accessible, new Apple TVs, iPads new and the massive iPad Pro with the M2 chip. Wow factor gets tested. But, is this too much iPad? With White Cane Safety Day in the Books we talk about the importance that bringing awareness to the general public has today and a big step for Audio Description on the 20,000 Hertz podcast. This is a healthy and longest Tech Abilities episode and it is just perfect for the times. We enjoyed the conversation and we hope you find something that helps you along your own journey. Give us a call at (612) 367-6093 📱️, email us at Info@BlindAbilities.com 📧️, we would love to hear from you:
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7682
2) That Real Blind Tech Show Episode 102: Apple 21st Century Mafia
October 28th 2022 | Join us for a recap of this year's Laugh For Sight in NYC. We then discuss Mac OS Ventura and the multitude of issues for VoiceOver users. We discuss iOS 16.1 and whether or not it is time to update. You may not have noticed the explosion of gambling ads appearing everywhere on the planet, but we have. We wrap up with a discussion of our go to devices for specific tasks:
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-102-apple-21st-century-mafia
3) Mosen at Large Episode 204: iOS 16 Bugs, More Envision Smart Glasses Feedback, And The History, Art, And Technicalities Of Audio Description With Joel Snyder
4) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 99: Seeing Assistant Move, A Navigational App For The Blind, CSR, And A Battle Of The Watches
October 29th 2022 | Our 100th episode celebration is next week, email contactus@blindandroidusers.com 📧️ to get the link to join us on the recording. We interview the developer of Seeing Assistant Move which is a navigation app for the visually impaired. For Android, the app can be downloaded here.. And for iOS it can be downloaded here. We also have a comparison between the just released Pixel Watch and the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5. We have a new episode in our CSR screen reader segment in which we see the new feature of ear piece settings and how to turn off and on speech. This episode can be found at:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqprz_c-45O70sG5Accsse7c
5) Blind Abilities Podcast Episode 904: Meet Matt Carson — Musician, Singer/Songwriter and Producer Who Happens To Be A TBVI (Teacher of the Blind and Visually Impaired)
November 1st 2022 | Jeff and Pete welcome mat Carson into the Blind Abilities studio today. Matt is a Teacher of the Visually Impaired, a musician, a singer songwriter who is proud to write and perform sad songs that fit neatly into the country music genre. Matt has written, performed, recorded and produced dozens of songs, most of which he produced himself in his home studio. Matt released his first full length album in 2019 entitled no regrets, on which he played all of the instruments with the exception of drums And pedal steel guitar. Matt has also been totally blind since birth. He shares all of these topics, with Jeff and Pete and as usual, they introduce quite a few excerpts of his music, not only from his no regrets album, but from his current project, a three song EP on which he welcomes Michael Cleveland, Bluegrass fiddler extraordinaire, whom Jeff and Pete introduced on Blind Abilities a couple of months ago:
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7686
6) Unmute Presents on ACB Community
November 1st 2022 | This is the weekly recording of Unmute Presents hosted every Tuesday on ACB Community. For information about ACB Community visit: https://acb.community. Unmute Presents is live every Tuesday at 10:00 AM PT / 1:00 PM Eastern. Join us each week as we share updates on the Access Technology Community and answer your questions regarding iPhones, Androids, Mac, and Windows. We will also give you insight into new apps; helpful information to stay up to date on accessibility technology; and the best podcasts to listen to:
https://pnc.st/s/unmute-presents-on-acb-communi/ae012751/november-1-2022
7) Eyes on Success Episode 2244: Writing a Novel as Therapy
November 2nd 2022 | Some people write for fun or because it is a job. Others have a story they want to share. When Aaron Spelker suddenly lost his sight, he found writing to be both therapeutic as well as a good activity for learning important blindness skills. Hosts Nancy and Peter talk with Aaron about how writing "The Bubonic Reorder" helped him navigate in a new world:
http://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show_notes_2244.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Webinar, Training Course or Event for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-event or locate "Webinar / Training Course Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) What's New with ARC Toolkit | TPGi
November 3rd 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | ARC Toolkit is more than just a way to quickly find accessibility issues by scanning a page; but is a series of tools that can help developers, QA, and accessibility testers alike perform the additional tests needed to determine if a screen is accessible. Learn about ARC Toolkit and ask questions about what it can do and what it can do for you:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-november-3-at-12pm-et-whats-new-with-arc-toolkit/
2) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 2: Emergent Literacy and LEGO Braille Bricks | APH
November 4th 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Let's discover together the countless possibilities for developing pre-braille skills using LEGO Braille Bricks and other manipulative tools:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
3) Let's Go Shopping 7 | Elegant Insights
November 4th 2022 | We're just a month away! The 2022 holiday edition of Let's Go Shopping is scheduled for Friday, November 4th 2022 and Saturday, November 5th 2022. Several business owners have already sent in their RSVP, with an intent to present attendees with a full slate of fabulous gift ideas, so you can shop 'til you drop right from the comfort of your home. I'll have a few new vendors for you, as well as returning favorites. I'll also have a new hour set aside just to help with overburdened budgets this year, thanks to inflation. Any vendor who joins us for the inflation-fighters hour has pledged to offer at least one item at a deep discount. While of course, every little bit helps, I'll be honest, a measly ten percent discount barely gets my attention. The Let's Go Shopping entrepreneurs have agreed to do better than that, at least for one special item. We'll also have the usual stocking stuffers hour, where vendors with smaller gifts that would make great "secret Santa," "white elephant" gift exchanges, or thoughtful stocking fillers will share their products, all under $20.00. Finally, we'll also have our end of the day happy hour, our casual Q and A session for those who may have missed some info during a vendor presentation. Here's the important part: If you know of anyone who would like to join us, either as a vendor, or as an attendee, please send them our link below. It's the main information page for Let's Go Shopping, and they can subscribe to our groups list for all the relevant details, including the Zoom virtual shopping mall login. They can also send a blank email to: lgs+subscribe@groups.io 📧️. to sign up to our announce list. This is where all the most important info is posted, including special sales, promos, giveaways, and the event schedule and vendor directory. So, please share this message! Get ready to shop for the best gifts from the best variety of small business owners anywhere, and get your gift list checked off early. Ready for a little retail therapy? Let's Go Shopping! Laura Legendary, Founder, Let's Go Shopping Virtual Events:
https://accessibleinsights.info/blog/lets-go-shopping/
4) Let's Go Shopping 7 | Elegant Insights
November 5th 2022 | We're just a month away! The 2022 holiday edition of Let's Go Shopping is scheduled for Friday, November 4th 2022 and Saturday, November 5th 2022. Several business owners have already sent in their RSVP, with an intent to present attendees with a full slate of fabulous gift ideas, so you can shop 'til you drop right from the comfort of your home. I'll have a few new vendors for you, as well as returning favorites. I'll also have a new hour set aside just to help with overburdened budgets this year, thanks to inflation. Any vendor who joins us for the inflation-fighters hour has pledged to offer at least one item at a deep discount. While of course, every little bit helps, I'll be honest, a measly ten percent discount barely gets my attention. The Let's Go Shopping entrepreneurs have agreed to do better than that, at least for one special item. We'll also have the usual stocking stuffers hour, where vendors with smaller gifts that would make great "secret Santa," "white elephant" gift exchanges, or thoughtful stocking fillers will share their products, all under $20.00. Finally, we'll also have our end of the day happy hour, our casual Q and A session for those who may have missed some info during a vendor presentation. Here's the important part: If you know of anyone who would like to join us, either as a vendor, or as an attendee, please send them our link below. It's the main information page for Let's Go Shopping, and they can subscribe to our groups list for all the relevant details, including the Zoom virtual shopping mall login. They can also send a blank email to: lgs+subscribe@groups.io 📧️. to sign up to our announce list. This is where all the most important info is posted, including special sales, promos, giveaways, and the event schedule and vendor directory. So, please share this message! Get ready to shop for the best gifts from the best variety of small business owners anywhere, and get your gift list checked off early. Ready for a little retail therapy? Let's Go Shopping! Laura Legendary, Founder, Let's Go Shopping Virtual Events:
https://accessibleinsights.info/blog/lets-go-shopping/
5) AT Gifts for the Holidays | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Our annual look at gadgets and gizmos that will make your holiday season a successful one. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
6) HLAA Webinar: The FDA Regulations for Over-the-Counter (OTC) Hearing Aids
November 8th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | On October 17, 2022, the FDA regulations on over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids went into effect, creating a new category of hearing devices that can be safely sold to adults 18 years of age and older with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss without the intervention of a hearing professional. These devices will be referred to as OTC hearing aids. In addition, the FDA will now refer to traditional hearing aids as prescription hearing aids. The regulations provide for technical and safety guidelines for those manufacturers who wish to make OTC hearing aids. This new pathway may empower consumers seeking to take responsibility for their own hearing loss. At the same time, education will be needed to help consumers find OTC hearing aids that work for them. This webinar will provide an overview of the key points of the regulation and how this may affect availability and access of both OTC and prescription hearing aids. In addition, we will provide suggestions on determining your hearing loss, accessing assistance from hearing professionals and key features to consider when purchasing OTC hearing aids. Presenter: Thomas A Powers, Ph.D., founder/managing member, Powers Consulting and strategic adviser, Hearing Industries Association
Thomas A. Powers, Ph.D., provides management consulting to the hearing health industry:
https://hearingloss.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_o0ZyrCxcSIGZsZwGZsRVcg
7) Workshop: High and Low-Tech Tools for Accessible Cooking | Chancey S. Fleet | Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library
November 9th 2022 | 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 11PM GMT | Find out about accessible recipe apps, appliances, labeling methods and tools that can help you cook with confidence as a blind or low-vision person:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYldeuvrTktE9DDwfXfzIcd1aOng9QZii51
8) Creating Source Files in Microsoft Office for PDF Remediation | Access Ingenuity
November 9th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Microsoft Office offers many tools that make remediation in PDF quicker and more successful. Join Rachel Reeves from Access Ingenuity to learn tips, tricks, and best practices for creating your documents in Microsoft Office with the intent to convert them to PDF. Learning Outcomes: Discover best practices in formatting standard document elements. Explore the WCAG 2.1 color requirements that may apply to your content. Introduction to creating PDFs directly from Microsoft Office. | Meeting ID: 874 1435 1888 | Passcode: 514898 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,87414351888#,,,,*514898# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose). Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87414351888?pwd=b0dvS2NPcUtjTnVYbzZCWEFBdVRhdz09#success
9) ATHEN Annual Meeting 2022
November 9th 2022 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Please hold the date for the ATHEN Annual Meeting. All are welcome to attend the ATHEN Annual Meeting which will take place Wednesday, November 9th 2022 from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM Eastern. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information and the Zoom link for joining the meeting. Real-Time Captioning will be provided. If you would like to request any additional disability-related accommodations, please indicate this on the Zoom form or contact me at: athenpresident@gmail.com 📧️. Register in advance for this meeting at:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUkd-qoqzkjHtfDz8f_4AG70f5HKm-EouSi
10) How Anyone Can Manage Accessibility Program — Ask Me Anything (AMA) | TPGi
November 9th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenter: Aaron Farber, Senior Accessibility Platform Consultant. The foundation for an accessibility program is having a clear, repeatable process for accessibility testing — with roles and responsibilities mapped to each step from design to development. If you are leading your organization's accessibility effort, you need an accessibility resource center to create accessible online experiences consistently and provide defensible data to stakeholders. Join TPGi's Aaron Farber, Senior Accessibility Platform Consultant, for an Ask Me Anything (AMA) session and get answers to your accessibility questions. This AMA session is great for product managers, content teams, UX teams, and marketers:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-november-9-at-12pm-et-how-anyone-can-manage-accessibility-program-ask-me-anything-ama/
11) How To Scale a Sustainable Accessibility Program | TPGi
November 9th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenters: Mark Miller, TPGi's Director of Sales, and Kelly Mahoney, 3Play Media's Content & Partner Marketing Specialist. This webinar will explore what it takes to scale accessibility programs for enterprise organizations. From the foundations of digital accessibility to the actionable steps your organization can take moving forward, we'll dig into the details of what it looks like to ensure accessible content, policies, and practices are baked in from the beginning. Key takeaways: What is digital accessibility and how should it influence your organization? Actionable steps you can take toward digital accessibility, including remediation tools and services. What do accessibility policies/programs look like at an enterprise organization?
https://www.tpgi.com/how-to-scale-a-sustainable-accessibility-program/
12) Usability and Accessibility for Digital Marketers — Delight Your Audience With Inclusive UX
November 10th 2022 | Presenters: Digital Marketing Institute, TPGi's Principal UX David Swallow, TPGi's UX Practice Manager David Sload, and Marketing Educator and Author Will Francis. Digital channels provide an opportunity for you to effectively reach and grow your target audience, communicate with them, provide information, build brand relationships, and enable transactions. The related concepts of usability and accessibility address the importance of removing barriers to efficient, effective, and enjoyable digital interactions for all users, including users with disabilities. When barriers are present, we risk brand damage, losing our audience to competitors, and potentially unlawful discrimination against people with disabilities. But how can we ensure usable and accessible digital experiences? To mark World Usability Day 2022, accessibility and user experience specialists David Swallow and David Sloan will make the argument that a focus on the needs of people with disabilities can help digital marketers deliver better user experiences for everyone. We'll define key concepts of usability, accessibility, and inclusive design and provide practical tips that everyone involved in digital marketing can apply in their work to make their digital experiences more accessible and usable:
https://www.bigmarker.com/digital-marketing-institute/Usability-and-Accessibility-for-Digital-Marketers-Delight-Your-Audience-with-Inclusive-UX
13) National Federation of the Blind of Maryland 2022 Annual Convention
November 11th 2022 to November 14th 2022 | Get ready for a weekend of fun and fellowship. Come and be part of celebrating our accomplishments and planning for the future! Place: Sheraton Baltimore North Hotel, 903 Dulaney Valley Road, Towson, MD 21204. Meet our keynote speaker and National Representative, Donald Porterfield, President of the NFB of Arizona, Board Member of the NFB, and a criminal prosecutor. Explore opportunities through special workshops for parents and teachers of blind children, blind merchants and entrepreneurs, and students. Check out our technology workshops and more. Examine new products at the exhibit hall on Friday. Help us raise expectations for ourselves and for officials who manage services for the blind:
https://nfbmd.org/convention/2022
14) Bytesize Training Tech Q and A Session
November 14th 2022 | 3PM PT, 4PM MT, 5PM CT, 6PM ET, 10PM GMT | This event is where I will be discussing the assistive technology training services that Byte Size Training Tech offers. In addition, there will be a Q and A session where participants will be able to have their questions answered:
https://www.clubhouse.com/event/MOXB7G84?utm_medium=ch_event&utm_campaign=pm-MMIuRiLSoGzDrb2BVkg-438223
15) Interactive Webinar: Windows Narrator: Not Just Another Voice In The Crowd | The Lighthouse For The Blind, Inc.
November 16th 2022 | 6PM PT, 7PM MT, 8PM CT, 9PM ET, 1AM GMT on 11/17 | Where: Online or via phone. Join us for a webinar about Windows Narrator! Windows Narrator is over 20 years old. There have been drastic improvements to this screen reader over the past several years, and this free screen reader is quickly becoming a recognizable voice in the crowd. Come explore some of narrators features, learn to maximize functionality, compare narrator to other leading screen readers, and ask questions during this interactive webinar from The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. Sign up via Eventbrite or reach out to Tim Paulding at (208) 771-4901 📱️ or TPaulding@LHBlind.org 📧️. Meet The Hosts: Timothy Paulding is the Services and Instructional Manager at The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. He has served in the blindness rehabilitation field for over ten years as a computer and assistive technology instructor and orientation and mobility specialist. He believes that people who are blind can be as independent as they want to be, given proper opportunity and training. Tim has masters degrees in Blindness and Low Vision Studies from Western Michigan University and is dual certified in orientation and mobility and vision rehabilitation therapy. Tim is a drummer and keyboard player and lives with his wife and children in Spokane Valley, Washington. Everett Elam, CATIS, is a computer and assistive technology instructor at The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. Prior to serving at the Lighthouse, Everett worked for a year in St. Louis, Missouri in the k-12 arena and also created and managed a curriculum for Assistive Technology Training. He has served in a variety of roles in the blindness rehabilitation field. He is a technology enthusiast who is passionate about helping people who are blind to reach their fullest potential. Everett believes that learning should be tailored to the learner, easy to apply in real world situations, and should most definitely be fun. In his free time, Everett is an award winning fiddle player and marathon runner and lives in Spokane, Washington. Click here to register:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/windows-narrator-not-just-another-voice-in-the-crowd-tickets-454175780987
16) Zoom Meeting for JAWS: Getting Help & Accessing Existing Training Materials | Access Ingenuity
November 16th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Get to know the various tools, help menu options, and free training materials that already exist with JAWS. Join Rachel Reeves, Marisa Church, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity to discover ways you can get assistance with concepts, commands, exercises, additional web resources, and more. Learning Outcomes: Various help tools of JAWS, including Keyboard Help, Screen Sensitive Help, etc. Additional help from the help menu includes the manual, web resources, and free training. Free training web resources include the Freedom Scientific Training YouTube channel, Free Webinars Training page, Surf's Up Training website, etc. | Meeting ID: 886 5246 9982 | Passcode: 215449 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,88652469982#,,,,*215449# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose). Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88652469982?pwd=WnB6L21JbnZwZEpMMEJVM0N2K3VuUT09#success
17) Live and Virtual Technology Fair | Carroll Center for the Blind
November 22nd 2022 | The Carroll Center for the Blind's in person Technology Fair is back! 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. The Technology Fair is free and open to consumers, families, friends, and professionals:
https://carroll.org/events/live-and-virtual-technology-fair/
18) ACB's 2022 Audio Description Awards Gala
November 29 2022 | The American Council of the Blind (ACB) proudly announces the second annual Audio Description Awards Gala on November 29, 2022. The Gala will once again celebrate outstanding achievements in audio description in media and expand awareness of its benefits. In recent years there has been enormous success in expanding audio description for audiences who are blind, low vision, or have other sensory disabilities that create barriers to full inclusion in visual media. "The Audio Description Awards Gala will celebrate the best of the best within the art and science of inclusive audio-described media," said Eric Bridges, ACB's Executive Director. "Together we will work to expand awareness of the transformative value that audio description brings to the lives of people with disabilities:"
https://acb.org/save-the-date-2022-AD-Awards
19) PDF Accessibility Training for Organizations | Access Ingenuity
November 30th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Creating accessible PDF documents is essential for most organizations' digital accessibility process. However, organizations often struggle to get their staff trained and efficient at creating accessible PDFs and other accessible digital content. The first step is identifying document creators within the organization and the types of documents they're developing. Depending on the findings, standard and advanced PDF accessibility training may be required. Join Michael Parker from Access Ingenuity to review lessons we learned from creating digital accessibility training and how to apply them to your organization. Learning Outcomes: Understand the components of a comprehensive PDF accessibility training program. Understand the importance of creating accessible templates and using accessible color palettes. Breaking the training down into manageable chunks - from beginners to advanced users. Meeting ID: 883 8806 6414 | Passcode: 878053 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,88388066414#,,,,*878053# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose). Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88388066414?pwd=RU9tQU02ZDlRVjZzWlpwZHVGZjBSUT09
20) Blind Health Expo | The Accessible Pharmacy
December 2nd 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | The Accessible Pharmacy Blind Health Expo will be the largest virtual expo of healthcare information, products, services, and medication for individuals who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision. Join thousands of other attendees and register now for free!
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/blind-health-expo/
21) 2022 Sight Tech Global — Shaping New Technologies to Create a More Accessible World for People with Blindness and Visual Impairments
December 7th 2022 and December 8th 2022 | Sponsored by Google, APH, Amazon, Humanware, Microsoft, Fable, LinkedIn, and Waymo, 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. Register for free:
https://sighttechglobal.com/
22) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
December 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
23) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 3: Creative Manual Activities for Christmas | APH
December 12th 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Christmas is a great time to create crafts. Let's share amazing and fun tactile ideas adapted to visually impaired children:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
24) Training Course: Catching Up with JAWS Chapter 4 for JAWS 2022 and 2023 | Hartgen Consultancy
December 14th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Catching Up with JAWS is priced £35 which is approximately 40 American dollars. Now is your chance to get some high quality training on some of the latest features within the screen-reader JAWS for Windows which have been introduced over the past two years. This follows on from our previous popular training courses on this subject. These training courses are still popular and people are purchasing the older volumes in the series even today:
https://www.hartgen.org/catchup4
25) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 4: Braille Around the World | APH
January 4th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Let's celebrate Louis Braille's Day and explore different braille codes around the world:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
26) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 5: School Aged Numeracy | APH
February 1st 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Using LEGO Braille Bricks to do math: let's discover some of the many uses of these little bricks to develop numerical and geometry skills, understand symmetry, and much more:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
27) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 6: Daily Living Activities | APH
March 6th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Let's explore daily-living activities using LEGO Braille Bricks and share our best practices, experiences, tips:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
28) 2023 3rd Annual Axe-Con | Building Accessible Experiences | The World's Largest Digital Accessibility Conference
March 15th 2022 and March 16th 2023 | Deque Systems, the trusted leader in digital accessibility, has announced the third annual axe-con conference will return on March 15-16th, 2023. With the success of axe-con over the past two years, Deque will continue to host the conference as a free virtual event again next year. 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:
https://www.deque.com/blog/save-the-date-for-axe-con-2023/
29) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 7: Music | APH
April 5th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Let's discover together how to make music with these famous bricks! Come and share your creative ideas:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
30) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 8: STEM | APH
May 3rd 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Have you ever thought of doing science, computing, or technology with LEGO Braille Bricks? Expert guests will join us for an amazing session:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
31) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 9: Orientation & Mobility | APH
June 7th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | LEGO bricks to build plans, visualize routes, it's not new! But with LEGO Braille Bricks you can also create labels, add letters, words... Then it becomes really great:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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
✍ List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. Fill out this short form to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-buy-sell-trade or learn more on the Top Tech Tidbits website.
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 To Present At Let's Go Shopping Event To Take Place on November 4th and 5th 2022
The Let's Go Shopping 7 event is being held this Friday and Saturday and both Kae and Barry are doing separate hour long segments. GuideLights will be presenting on Friday at 1 PM Pacific (4 PM Eastern) and GuideLight Dogs at 8 AM Pacific (11 AM Eastern) on Saturday. For the schedule and zoom information, along with other announcements, send a blank email to: lgs+subscribe@groups.io 📧️ to be added to the announcement list. The zoom info is as follows: Meeting ID: 886 0188 4692 | Passcode: 509750 | One tap mobile: +166990068331,88601884692#,,,,*509750# US (San Jose) | +171935945801,88601884692#,,,,*509750# US | We plan specials on leather, electronic, 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, affordable, 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
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: That Real Blind Tech Show
➜ That Real Blind Tech Show Episode 96: We Got More Resolutions, ACB Style!
It's a fully packed That Real Blind Tech show lair. Join us as we recap this year's ACB Resolutions. We chime in with all of our opinions about this year's resolutions, and as usual some hilarity ensues. You will not want to miss both AirPods issues that take place on this episode. We are adding do not listen to That Real Blind Tech show on the bus as we are not responsible for the stares you will receive when laughing or cackling like a lunatic!
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-96-we-got-more-resolutions-acb-style
Sponsor Since: August 11th 2022
Website: https://blindtechshow.com/ 🌐
Email: ThatRealBlindTechShow@gmail.com 📧️
Social: Facebook Page | Facebook Group | Twitter
Listen: Apple Podcasts | Audible | Google Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube
Hosts: Brian Fischler | Ed Plumacher | Allison Meloy | Jenine Stanley
Goals: We want to educate you on the latest tech for the blindness community. You'll learn what is worth keeping and what you need to return. Our goals are: To inform, inspire and educate our audience. Feature guests and products that bring you value. Continuously improve and deliver the best content.
About: A podcast discussing the good & bad of assistive technology for the low vision & totally blind. No longer focused on just Apple VoiceOver technology. That Real Blind Tech show covers all the fantastic talking tech and gadgets out there for the low vision and blindness community. Common topics include Apple's VoiceOver, JAWS, Microsoft Narrator, NVDA, Amazon Alexa and VoiceView, Google Assistant and Android. Basically, if a device can talk to you, we are going to be talking about it. That Real Blind Tech Show will not only educate you, but it will also make you laugh. Listeners are encouraged to not use treadmills or drink hot coffee while listening to our show, or accidents can and have occurred. Dishes have been broken while listening to That Real Blind Tech Show, and while we are responsible for the laughs, we are in no way responsible for the injuries or bills that pile up. Remember to keep it Real and also don't believe anything you hear on That Real Blind Tech Show.
Home | Episodes | Blog | Contact | Subscribe
Sponsor: Aira
➜ Webinar: Discovering Aira and Content Creation | October 25th 2022 at 2:00 PM ET
Creating content for the ever-expanding media world is a growing profession. During #NDEAM2022 we want to spotlight how blind and low vision people are working in this space. Whether for income or personal brand, these creators integrate visual interpreting into their processes. We'll also get advice from Aira Agents on how to make the most of visual interpreting when creating your content. Join us Tuesday, October 25th 2022 at 2:00pm Eastern time. Register at:
https://aira.zoom.us/webinar/register/9116639399059/WN_g9O7k3RaR7mYYT1ODnm0cA
Sponsor Since: August 4th 2022
Website: https://aira.io/ 🌐
Download the App: Apple App Store | Google Play Store
Plans and Pricing: https://aira.io/pricing/
Phone: NA: +1.800.835.1934 📱️ | AU: +1.800.765.096 📱️ | UK: +0.800.046.5668 📱️ | NZ: +1.800.425.451 📱️
Text Message: NA: +1.858.242.4457 📲 | AU: +61.488.839.767 📲 | UK: +44.149.320.2474 📲
Email: support@aira.io 📧️
Social: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
About: Aira's mission is to remove barriers and make the world more accessible with visual interpreting.
We provide a live, human-to-human professional assistance service, an accommodation or productivity tool, that enhances independence by delivering on-demand, skilled and reliable visual interpreting for just about any task. Using the powerful combination of a camera and the Aira app on someone's device of 'choice', a professionally-trained agent will assist by visually interpreting what is in the camera's view or on screen, from describing to reading, from explaining to navigating - just about anything, safely and securely. Aira supports a growing range of devices including smart and tactile button phones, desktop computers and soon, wearables.
Whether you are involved in the work of business, the work of school or the work of life, Aira enhances everyday efficiency, engagement, and independence. Used by employees and customers of hundreds of organizations including airports, banks, the largest software companies, financial firms, retailers and universities, we invite you to join the community, access the Aira app today and try it for free.
https://aira.io/download-and-try-it/
Step One: Subscribe and Download. Pick the plan that lets you explore on your terms and on your time, sign up in a few minutes, and download the Aira app to your smartphone. Plans shown are for the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Add or cancel at any time.
Step Two: Connect with an Aira Agent. On the first call, connect with one of our certified, specially-trained Agents and learn how everything works.
Step Three: Real-time Assistance. At the touch of a button, Aira delivers instant access to visual information, when and where you want it.
Sponsor: Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
➜ Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore: Touch Tomorrow in Today's Products
Serving blind people since 1999, we're a family-owned, forward-thinking company offering both tried-and-true and exciting new products for blind and low vision consumers. We design and carry self-voicing educational software, Braille supplies, talking gadgets, adapted household items, tactile card and board games, audible toys and gift ideas. Passionate about innovation, we've also created dozens of products from scratch when a suitable solution did not exist. Shop online at http://www.braillebookstore.com/ and enjoy fast, free shipping.
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: http://www.braillebookstore.com/ 🌐
Phone (Toll Free): (800) 987-1231 📱️
Fax (Toll Free): (800) 985-1231 ░
Email: Sales@BrailleBookstore.com 📧️
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time.
About: Welcome to Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore. We have been supplying products to blind people and their families since 1999. We offer thousands of Braille books, toys, games, kitchen aids, and talking products. We have unbeatable prices, fast, free shipping, and great customer service! We have tons of Braille books and cool products to choose from; so grab a cup of coffee, relax, and we'll give you a quick tour:
Products:
➜ Timekeeping
➜ Housewares
➜ On The Go
➜ Low Vision Products
➜ Toys and Games
➜ Gift Shop
➜ Braille Workshop
➜ Braille Bookstore
➜ Greeting Cards
➜ Copy Center
➜ Computer Lab
➜ Popular Products
➜ New Products
If you need some fresh ideas or have questions, you can also check out our Shopping Guides.
Sponsor: Fable
➜ Free and Accessible Training for the Tech Sector
Fable Pathways helps you gain the skills that you need to work in the tech sector with a free, accessible, and on-demand program. Learn from industry leaders with disabilities to take your career to the next level, like Kelly Ford, Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, who introduces GitHub and VS Code using a screen reader. Spend less time and energy trying to access courses with your assistive technology and focus on the content that matters to you, with Fable Pathways' accessible platform. Sign up today!
https://www.fablepathways.com/
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: https://fablepathways.com/ 🌐
Email: community@makeitfable.com 📧️
Phone: (888) 212-3532 📱️ Extension 810
About: Just like curb cuts help everyone get on and off sidewalks, designing digital products with accessibility in mind helps make the internet more accessible for everyone. Fable is an accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities. Fable connects people with disabilities to accessibility managers, user researchers, designers, and developers to build incredible and accessible user experiences.
Opportunities:
➜ Fable Pathways: Fable Pathways is a free skill development program for people with disabilities interested in working in the tech sector. Sign up to take your career to the next level. Courses include "Getting started in web development" taught by Kelly Ford, a screen reader user, and Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, and "Becoming a manager" taught by Fable's Head of Accessibility Innovation, Kate Kalcevich. Instructors are subject matter experts in their fields and have lived experience with disability. Pathways courses are free, self-paced and assistive-technology-friendly. Sign up now at https://fablepathways.com/.
➜ Fable's Community of Accessibility Testers: Work from home to contribute to real changes in digital accessibility and make the internet a more accessible place for everyone. Ever leave a website because it was too hard to navigate? Because it was missing button labels? Because it didn't respond to voice commands? Us too. Our community of testers who use assistive technologies work from home and contribute to real changes in digital accessibility with recognizable brands. Earn money to share your feedback on websites and apps of your favorite brands and work with companies that care. No experience required and no resume required. Fable is looking for assistive technology users in the USA and Canada to work the hours that they want, from the comfort of their own homes. Learn more at https://fablepathways.com/community/.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ Dolphin Friends Program
If you work for a non-profit, charity or society that provides services to people with visual impairments, we invite you to take part in our Dolphin Friends Program. Dolphin will outfit your center with assistive technology solutions that can benefit your clients who need to remain independent, are trying to sharpen their technology skills for employment and more. Learn more about becoming a Dolphin Friend:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/join-dolphin-friends
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Sponsor: Clusiv
➜ Looking For Blind Job-Seekers Wanting To Advance Their Salaries, Careers And Digital Accessibility For The Blind
Are you interested in learning new tech skills and working remotely while earning a competitive salary? At Clusiv.io we have created the world's first digitally accessible e-Learning platform built by the blind, and built for the blind. Visit the link provided and request Clusiv through your Vocational Rehab counselor for lifetime access to our e-Learning platform with courses such as Business Applications, JAWS, and more:
https://clusiv.io/
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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 from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Control the climate of your home independently! The VIP 3000 is a universal heating — cooling talking thermostat This accessible digital thermostat is specifically designed to offer audio playback of indoor temperature, temperature settings and programming instructions so blind and visually impaired users can independently & precisely manage their indoor comfort. Don't over pay. Read more at:
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 every day 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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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 Next Generation in Accessibility
Need to quickly access a distant computer with minimal fuss? Need to quickly convert image documents into readable text? Today's students and working professionals demand more of their technology. Employers expect more of their workforce. Pneuma Solutions is bridging the gap using the best in machine learning to connect you to your environment when you need it, how you need it. Give us a try, and experience accessibility on a whole new level:
https://pneumasolutions.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
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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Combine Learning And Gaming For A Fun Braille Adventure With Polly!
APH and Thinkerbell Labs are excited to introduce Polly, complete with customizable UEB lessons, songs, games, and stories! Join our waiting list to know when Polly is available:
https://www.aph.org/polly-wait-list/
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.
Your Name Here
0 of 18 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are currently 0 of 18 packages available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, October 27, 2022 - Volume 882
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.
Subscribers: 7,531 Opt-In Subscribers were sent this issue via email. 152 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Join The Carroll Center For Its' Annual In Person Tech Fair (Virtual Exhibits Too)
The Carroll Center for the Blind's in person Technology Fair is back! 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. The Technology Fair is free and open to consumers, families, friends, and professionals.
https://carroll.org/events/live-and-virtual-technology-fair/
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Tidbit for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) AccessWorld September 2022 (6.7% of all clicks.)
September updates include: Editor's Page Editor's Notes: Style Sheets and Hearthstone Access | Conference Coverage: A Wrap-Up of Apple's "Far Out" Product Launch Event | Access Matters Access Tech — The Future of Haptic Helpers | Product Reviews and Guides: The RealSAM Pocket — Is This the Phone You've Been Waiting For? | Amazon Fire-TV Recast: Accessible Over-The-Air TV Channels With No Cable Bill:
https://www.afb.org/aw/full-issue?id=18062
B.) Apple Glasses Accessibility Features Could Be A Huge Benefit, Suggests Disability Campaigner | Ben Lovejoy | 9To5Mac (6.2% of all clicks.)
Apple Glasses Accessibility features could see the long-rumored devices make a huge difference to the lives of those with disabilities. The point was made by Colin Hughes, the disability campaigner who recently shared the ways in which Apple tech allows him to live a more independent life despite almost no use of his limbs. I recently got to visit his London apartment to see for myself his combined Accessibility and HomeKit setup:
https://9to5mac.com/2022/10/17/apple-glasses-accessibility/
C.) A Blind Woman Just Piloted An Airplane Across The Country (5.6% of all clicks.)
"This is just such a huge moment, not just for me and my family, but the entire visually impaired community," Kaiya Armstrong said:
https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/2022/10/13/kaiya-armstrong-blind-pilot-airplane/
D.) Enhancements in JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion 2023 Public Beta 3 (5.3% of all clicks.)
The latest public beta for Jaws, ZoomText, and Fusion 2023 has been released by Freedom Scientific:
https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/PublicBeta
E.) How To Get The Windows 10 2022 Update (4.9% of all clicks.)
Microsoft has announced the availability of the Windows 10 2022 Update (also known as Windows 10, version 22H2):
https://blogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/2022/10/18/how-to-get-the-windows-10-2022-update/
3) Sponsorship Package Updates
There are no Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Packages currently available. If you would like to support Top Tech Tidbits by becoming a Sponsor in the future please add your name to our waiting list today by sending an email to our Publisher at the address below. We will add your name to the list, let you know what position you currently hold within it, and then notify you the moment a package becomes available. There are currently three future Sponsors on the waiting list:
publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️
4) Premium Subscriber Updates
Premium Subscribers are entitled to all back issues, anytime they sign up. All available back issues will be sent to you via email within 24 hours of purchasing your subscription. Premium Subscribers will receive their 3rd Volume of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits for October, November and December 2022 on Monday, January 2nd 2023. If you would like to receive a perfectly formatted and searchable Word Document with each of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits of the last 3 months listed neatly within it, please consider joining us today for just $1 a month:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/premium-subscribers.html
5) An Open Letter To All Top Tech Tidbits Readers. We Need Your Help. Top Tech Tidbits To Spin Off Access Information News Section As Standalone Publication Beginning November 7th 2022. Everything You Need To Know.
Do you consider yourself to be a Top Tech Tidbits hard-liner? Did you know there was such a thing? And if you did, do you know what it means to be one? These questions answered along with an update that we're all pretty excited about. And we think you will be too:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/128.html
6) Top Tech Tidbits Weekly Scramble
The Top Tech Tidbits Weekly Scramble presents a single word or phrase related to adaptive or assistive technology whose letters have been scrambled. Can you put the letters back in the proper order to determine this week's word? Check your work next week where we'll provide the answer along with a new challenge.
LAST WEEK'S SCRAMBLE: TRTA ITEELNATXEV = ALTERNATIVE TEXT
NEW SCRAMBLE: BITLDRIISS IGHTYA = (This phrase is 2 words with one space.)
7) Android Users Can Now 'Like' Messages From iPhones
Texting between Android and iPhones isn't always the smoothest experience. Photos and videos get pixelated, messages from Android users show up as the dreaded green chat bubble on iPhone, and then there are emoji reactions. When an iPhone user hits the thumbs-up or heart reaction emoji, that doesn't translate to Android, and it shows up as an awkward text description of the emoji instead. Google has been trying to fix some of that, though it faces the never-ending challenge of buy-in from Apple. This week, Google said that updates coming to Messages will allow Android users to respond to iPhone texts with emojis:
https://www.wired.com/story/android-users-can-like-iphone-messages-now/
8) Announcing The See The World Through Your Ears App
A new and first of its kind spatial audio navigation app, See the World Through Your Ears is now available for Android and iOS. The app requires bone conduction headphones for proper and safe use.
Download link for iOS:
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/waveout/id1496541182
Download link for Android:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=io.dreamwaves.waveout
9) Demonstration of AIRA Using The Envision Glasses on the In Touch Podcast
The piece begins at time index 11:49:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m001d5kq
10) Demo of Google Lookout On The BlindShell Classic 2 | YouTube
In this audio Michael Babcock takes his BlindShell Classic 2 phone into the kitchen to use Google Lookout so he can find the boxes and jars he is looking for. If you have been curious how Google Lookout works on the BlindShell Classic 2, we let you hear how this app works:
https://youtu.be/Mdf0lPYl--k
11) How to Set Up Your New Android Phone
Welcome to your shiny new Google-powered smartphone. It will be up and ready in no time with these handy tips:
https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-set-up-your-new-android-phone/
12) How to Extract the Text From Any Image | Wired
Whether it's for accessibility or research purposes, you have lots of tools to work with here:
https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-extract-text-from-any-image/
13) Apple Releases iOS 16.1, iPadOS 16.1 And macOS Ventura
Earlier this week, Apple released updates to its mobile and desktop operating systems. Here is a concise article describing the changes:
https://www.thurrott.com/apple/275106/apple-releases-ios-16-1-ipados-16-1-and-macos-ventura
14) Apple Releases iOS 16.1 And iPadOS 16.1 Bringing Many Fixes for VoiceOver Users | AppleVis
Apple has released iOS 16.1 and iPadOS 16.1 to the public. Our testing suggests that these releases resolve a number of the issues introduced for blind and low vision users with the initial release of iOS 16:
https://www.applevis.com/blog/apple-releases-ios-161-ipados-161-bringing-many-fixes-voiceover-users
15) The New Features, Changes, Improvements, And Bugs In macOS 13 Ventura For Blind And Low Vision Users | AppleVis
Apple has released macOS 13 Ventura 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-bugs-macos-13-ventura-blind-low-vision-users
16) A Quick Guide to the System Settings App in macOS Ventura
Here is a quick guide posted on AppleVis on the new settings app on MacOS X:
https://www.applevis.com/guides/quick-guide-system-settings-app-macos-ventura
17) Apple Releases WatchOS 9.1 and TvOS 16.1 | AppleVis
Apple has released WatchOS 9.1 and TvOS 16.1 to the public. According to the release notes, WatchOS 9.1 Includes the following changes:
https://www.applevis.com/blog/apple-releases-watchos-91-tvos-161
18) The New Features, Changes, Improvements, and Bugs in MacOS 13 Ventura For Blind and Low Vision Users | AppleVis
Apple has released macOS 13 Ventura 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-bugs-macos-13-ventura-blind-low-vision-users
19) The Top New Features in Apple's iOS and iPadOS 16 | Wired
The latest versions for iPhones and iPads are now available, complete with a revamped lock screen, editable Messages, and Safety Check:
https://www.wired.com/story/apple-iphone-ios-16-ipados-16-new-features/
20) What's New in JAWS 2023 Screen Reading Software | Freedom Scientific
Windows on ARM and better access to Windows Notifications are among the enhancements:https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/JAWS/JAWSWhatsNew#Enhancements
21) Magnifiers: What, How, and Where to Buy? | Hadley
A magnifier can be a handy tool, but it can be overwhelming to find the right one. Here are answers to the 3 most common questions we get about magnifiers:
https://hadley.edu/blog/magnifiers-what-how-and-where-buy
22) Review: Microsoft Releases PC Manager Beta to Optimize Windows Performance | David Goldfield | Tech-VI List
David's Review:
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/2831
Announcement:
https://www.tomshardware.com/news/pc-manager-beta-microsoft
23) For Amazon Echo Enthusiasts: Echo Tips Podcast From New Vision, Roanoke, VA
You can access this podcast within your client of choice as well as on an Amazon or Google Smart Speaker:
https://tunein.com/podcasts/Education-Podcasts/Echo-Tips-Podcast-p1118403/
24) Review And An Overview Of The Podcast Guru For iOS | Seeing In The Dark | October 19th 2022 | 50 Minutes
This in-depth demonstration runs for 50 minutes and is endorsed by David Goldfield of the Tech-VI List for anyone searching for a full-featured podcast client for their iOS device:
https://castro.fm/episode/ayvAbY
25) Recording: Hosting a Zoom Meeting with JAWS: Managing Participants in the Waiting Room | Freedom Scientific | YouTube
Want to learn how to navigate the Zoom interface more efficiently with JAWS when scheduling meetings and other events? Listen to our series, "Hosting a Zoom meeting with JAWS:"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E6lBI7MqHMo
26) Let's Play! — A Collection of Free Stepwise Braille and Audio Classical Guitar Lessons
Let's Play! is a collection of free stepwise Braille and audio classical guitar lessons. You'll need a guitar and a footstool. A footstool is something to put your left foot on so you can raise your left leg 5 to 20 inches and be able to hold the guitar properly:
https://www.letsplayguitar.org/
27) Windows Surface vs. Apple iPad: The Best Pro Tablets
This is a good article on the comparison between popular Windows and Apple Tablets:
https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/can-pro-tablets-replace-your-laptop/
28) Collection of Third Party Sites Offering JAWS Scripts | David Goldfield | Tech-VI List
A few days ago someone posted a message to the JAWS for Windows (JFW) discussion group asking for addresses of websites which offer free or paid scripts to be used with the JAWS screen reader. I responded to this message by providing a list of such sites which were known to me. I am reposting my response to the Tech-VI list in case this information might be of interest or value:
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/2839
29) How to Stop Microsoft Edge From Hogging System Resources
Microsoft Edge has earned its spot as a reputable browser, making it a fine default option for most Windows users. However, it isn't perfect. If Microsoft Edge is slowing your computer down, there are a few fixes you can try before switching to a different browser. We've combed through the app's performance settings to help you both speed up your browser and minimize its resource use on your PC:
https://lifehacker.com/how-to-stop-microsoft-edge-from-hogging-system-resource-1849680959
30) Upcoming Training Course From Hartgen Consultancy: Catching Up with JAWS Chapter 4 for JAWS 2022 and 2023 | Wednesday, December 14th 2022 at 2:00 PM ET
Catching Up with JAWS is priced £35 which is approximately 40 American dollars. Now is your chance to get some high quality training on some of the latest features within the screen-reader JAWS for Windows which have been introduced over the past two years. This follows on from our previous popular training courses on this subject. These training courses are still popular and people are purchasing the older volumes in the series even today:
https://www.hartgen.org/catchup4
31) Recording: Freedom Scientific Training Podcast: Hosting a Zoom Meeting with JAWS: Using Chat and Accessing Links in Chat Messages | October 21st 2022
Want to learn how to navigate the Zoom interface more efficiently with JAWS when scheduling meetings and other events? Listen to our series, "Hosting a Zoom meeting with JAWS." Objectives: Participants will learn how to: Navigate the Zoom interface Schedule a meeting Open and navigate the list of meeting participants Start/stop screen share Open accessibility settings:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/freedom-scientific-training-podcast/id1521340640?i=1000583449630
32) New Tech Lets Blind, Visually Impaired People Play Trackmania
A French organization is developing technology to give visually impaired people more ability to perceive their environment — and they're using videogames to test and expand it. In the process they've managed to make Trackmania accessible to those who are totally blind:
https://www.pcgamer.com/new-tech-lets-blind-visually-impaired-people-play-trackmania/
33) Review: Rode Procaster: Broadcast-Quality Microphone For Under $200 | ZDNET
Rode's Procaster microphone is built like a tank and provides excellent audio for new podcasters or video content creators:
https://www.zdnet.com/home-and-office/smart-office/rode-procaster-microphone-review/
34) How To Perform Common Tasks in Windows Command Prompt
All of the necessary basics to get you started:
https://www.tomshardware.com/how-to/use-windows-command-prompt
35) 2022 Sight Tech Global — Shaping New Technologies to Create a More Accessible World for People with Blindness and Visual Impairments | December 7th 2022
Sponsored by Google, APH, Amazon, Humanware, Microsoft, Fable, LinkedIn, and Waymo, 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. Register for free:
https://sighttechglobal.com/
36) Use Resume Assistant And LinkedIn For Great Resumes | Microsoft
Resume Assistant is being phased out, starting in September 2022. By the end of January 2023, it will be removed and no longer supported. For creating a resume that gets you noticed by recruiters and hiring managers, we recommend starting with a professionally designed resume template in Word or using the LinkedIn Resume Builder. Once you've created your resume, you can upload it to LinkedIn for job applications or for displaying on your profile:
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/use-resume-assistant-and-linkedin-for-great-resumes-444ff6f0-ef74-4a9c-9091-ffd7a9d1917a
37) A Quick Guide to the System Settings App in macOS Ventura
In macOS Ventura, Apple replaced the familiar System Preferences app with a new app called System Settings. This app is fully accessible with VoiceOver, however the interface is quite different and many settings have been relocated, which may at first be disorienting to longtime Mac users. However, the new layout may feel familiar if you've used iOS or iPadOS, and you may eventually find that the increased parody between the two platforms makes the experience of locating and changing settings easier and more predictable on both of them:
https://www.applevis.com/guides/quick-guide-system-settings-app-macos-ventura
38) Leasey For JAWS 2023 and Earlier Now Available
Version 7 of Leasey from Hartgen Consultancy has been updated and is now compatible with JAWS 2023. This version of Leasey will also work with earlier versions of JAWS:
https://www.hartgen.org/leaseydemo
39) LinkedIn Adds New Accessibility Features, Including Auto-Captions on Videos
As we all know October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month. To mark the event LinkedIn has announced a range of new updates to improve accessibility for LinkedIn users:
https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/LinkedIn-Adds-Accessibility-Features-Auto-Captions/634643/
40) How Does A Blind Person Find A Door With Their Phone? | Visual and Audio Walk Through | YouTube | Juan Alcazar
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/XlkgcvqBiCI
41) How A Blind Person Frames Themselves On Camera When Filming A Video | Visual and Audio Walk Through | YouTube | Juan Alcazar
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/N40IEIPQO5k
➜ Access Information News
✍ Submit your Access Information news item for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Tell Aira To Use 100% Accessible RIM Instead of TeamViewer
This pre-filled letter can be sent to Aira in order to request that they adopt Remote Incident Manager (RIM) in order to provide a more seamless remote support experience to Explorers. The letter begins: I would like to request an improvement be made to the Aira service. While my experience with Aira has been very positive, there is one area in which I have faced some difficulty. As is well known by now, a recent update to TeamViewer broke accessibility with screen readers. This makes it impossible to read the ID and password independently in order to help the agent connect to my computer:
https://t.co/Sehv9H3Sla
2) Q&A: UnlockedMaps Provides Real-Time Accessibility Information For Urban Rail Transit In Six Metro Areas
This web app and study demonstrates the inaccessibility of transit stations in urban locations:
https://www.washington.edu/news/2022/10/17/unlockedmaps-real-time-accessibility-information-urban-rail-transit-in-six-metro-areas/
3) Audio Only Computer Game Receives Innovation Award
An audio-only computer game developed by Lancaster University researchers was recognized at an awards ceremony organized by the national membership organization for sight loss charities. The game, which was tested by people with sight loss, received the Inspire Award at the annual Visionary Awards. The game uses abstract noises to guide players through 16 levels of an immersive maze. Sight Advice South Lakes recruited people with sight loss from across the country with computer game experience to take part in the testing of the technology:
https://www.aop.org.uk/ot/science-and-vision/technology/2022/10/21/audio-only-computer-game-receives-innovation-award
4) Blue's Clues & You Introduces a New Character with Albinism
Season 3, Episode 15 introduces a new classmate named Pearl the Bunny. Pearl is unique because she wears glasses, uses a cane, and her eyes "dance" because Pearl has albinism:
https://www.pathstoliteracy.org/blues-clues-you-introduces-a-new-character-with-albinism/
5) System Breaks Down Barriers for Blind Web Designers
Numerous applications help blind users surf the web — but what if someone with a visual impairment wants to design the visual layout of a page? Few tools are available to support them, particularly without the help of a sighted person. Now, researchers at the University of Maryland are increasing accessibility by developing a novel device that lets blind users design a web layout using touch and sound:
https://today.umd.edu/system-breaks-down-barriers-for-blind-web-designers
6) Announcing Democracy's Library | Internet Archive
The Internet Archive has officially announced a brand new initiative: Democracy's Library. We believe that free and open access to public information is critical for any functioning democracy, and that every citizen should be able to seek knowledge in the public domain. That's why we're working to collect important government documents, so that citizens everywhere can be better informed:
https://mailchi.mp/archive.org/20221020democlibryeng?e=6e9865d97d
7) While You Are Home: Activities for Children with Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI)
Activity ideas from Dr. Christine Roman for students with cortical visual impairment (CVI) in each of the three different phases:
https://www.pathstoliteracy.org/while-you-are-home-activities-children-cvi/
8) Greg Stilson on What Organizations Stand to Gain When They Prioritize Accessibility
It's no secret that blind and low vision individuals face heightened barriers when it comes to securing workplace opportunities and advancement. Join Aira in celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month as they spotlight individuals who overcome these barriers through assistive technologies like Aira:
https://aira.io/gregstilson/
9) OER Initiative Offers Tools to Expand Awareness of Digital Accessibility
Teach Access, a nonprofit focused on digital accessibility skills education, is launching a collection of free online teaching resources designed to help faculty teach accessibility across a range of computer science, technology, and design programs. Built in collaboration with iDesign, the Teach Access Curriculum Repository provides more than 250 open educational resources to help students better understand digital accessibility as they learn to design, develop, and build new technologies:
https://campustechnology.com/articles/2022/10/25/oer-initiative-offers-tools-to-expand-awareness-of-digital-accessibility.aspx
10) Science, Symbolism And Sight: Wellcome Collection Explores How We See And Are Seen
'In Plain Sight' at London's Wellcome Collection explores sight from every angle, spanning science and symbolism, art and eyewear, and experiences of the partially sighted and blind:
https://www.wallpaper.com/art/wellcome-collection-integrates-sensation-in-visions-of-history-spirituality-and-touch
11) Recording: Tek Talk Welcomes Peter Tucic, HumanWare Director of Strategic Partnerships To Discuss All That is New With HumanWare | October 10th 2022
Join Peter Tucic as he returns to Tek Talk with information on all that is new with HumanWare. Peter presents on recent updates to HumanWare's braille product portfolio including the implementation of text-to-speech on the Brailliant BI X series displays and direct cloud integration into the BrailleNote Touch Plus amongst other topics. Attendees also learn about the recently launched Steller Trek GPS device:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tek-talk/id1500954706?i=1000583301473
12) Blind to Problems: How VA's Electronic Record System Shuts Out Visually Impaired Patients
Sarah Sheffield, a nurse practitioner at a Veterans Affairs clinic in Eugene, Oregon, had a problem. Her patients — mostly in their 70s and beyond — couldn't read computer screens. It's not an unusual problem for older people, which is why you might think Oracle Cerner, the developers of the agency's new digital health record system, would have anticipated it. But they didn't:
https://khn.org/news/article/va-electronic-record-system-blind-visually-impaired/
13) Saying Goodbye to the Sonata Internet Audio Service on October 31st 2022 | British Wireless for the Blind Fund
We launched the Sonata Internet Audio Service over 13 years ago. Our commitment to the Sonata service and to its listeners has seen it go from strength to strength. However, we have now reached a point where the technology is no longer sustainable. Therefore, we are sad to announce that the Sonata service will cease operating on 31st October 2022. After this date Sonata Radio will no longer connect to the content it currently provides. We will of course, be able to offer our Sonata users an alternative device. We will be in contact with all Sonata recipients nearer the time to talk through the available options:
https://blind.org.uk/news/saying-goodbye-to-sonata/
14) 70 Percent Of Blind Adults Are Unemployed. Miami Lighthouse Is Helping To Change That
The Miami Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired may be best known for its impactful work bringing free eye exams to local schools and hosting early childhood education for vision impaired youth. A year ago, Miami Lighthouse opened Florida's first CVI center to respond to the leading cause of pediatric visual impairment. All this work continues, of course, but this 91-year-old award-winning Miami nonprofit organization has also long supported adults as well, and recently has been doubling down on its digital literacy programming as well as its website accessibility advocacy:
https://www.miamiherald.com/living/helping-others/article267163806.html
15) Douglas County Nebraska Demonstrates New Voting Machines For Blind | 6News WOWT
Douglas County Election Commissioner Brian Kruse said almost 70% of the early ballots cast so far this year have been dropped in a collection box. But for many of the 50 or so in attendance at Tuesday night's meeting of the Omaha Association of the Blind, he wanted to let voters know there are improved options for those who don't have that sort of freedom:
https://www.wowt.com/2022/10/19/douglas-co-demonstrates-new-voting-machines-blind/
16) Skateboarding Clinic Held For Visually Impaired Kids At Adidas Training Center | YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K5nq72N9oXk
17) Empowering the Blind Voter | NFB | YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FunBffhvSks
18) Barilla® Adds QR Codes on Packaging to Assist Visually Impaired Customers in Expanded Partnership with Be My Eyes
Barilla, a world leader in the markets of pasta, is expanding its partnership with Be My Eyes, a platform that provides live audio and visual support for blind and visually impaired consumers, by incorporating QR codes on the packaging of ten of Barilla's most popular classic pasta offerings:
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/barilla-adds-qr-codes-on-packaging-to-assist-visually-impaired-customers-in-expanded-partnership-with-be-my-eyes-301651355.html
➜ Surveys
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related survey for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-survey or locate "Survey Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Surveys | APH
Closes: Ongoing Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
2) Survey | Google | Keyboard-Only Navigation / Alternative Keyboard Users
Closes: October 28th Team: Google Material Design. Length of Study: 30 minutes. Date(s): October 24th 2022 to October 28th 2022. Details: Study is open to Keyboard-only navigation / Alternative Keyboard Users. Participants will evaluate a proposed design to evaluate assistive technology usage. Due to the nature of the design, we will not accept Screen-Reader users for this study. Incentive: $50 USD. Location: Remote USA/Canada. Link for participating:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScXe2NurYzKLjVlsxvzSKjQmuCdGTyGDPmSoTlb2FyOaJ7P5w/viewform
3) Survey: Paid Google Study For Those With Cognitive Accessibility Needs And / Or Those Who Aare Deaf / Hard of Hearing And Use A Tablet
Closes: October 31st 2022Google is undertaking a paid study for those with cognitive accessibility needs or those who are deaf / hard of hearing and use a tablet. Here is what is needed: User Type: Users with Cognitive Accessibility needs and users who are Deaf/Hard of Hearing. Product: Android. Length of Study: 90 minutes and short 3 day diary. Details: All users must use a Tablet Device (e.g. iPad, Samsung Galaxy Tab, Microsoft Surface, Lenovo Tab etc.) Open to Tablet users who also use Stylus, Tablet Keyboards, Smart Watches or Smart Displays. User will have a short 3-day follow up diary assignment. Thank-You Gifts: $100 USD / $125 CAD for 90 mins plus $45 USD / $60 CAD for short 3 day diary. Location: USA / Canada Remote. Link to participate with eligibility form:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfRSkeyvWv-EONUIW0b8i8A0V1CenF-lvmkoCve3l1QMgaeiQ/viewform?resourcekey=0-XdiLbrvGRjNN1l91oHSlIw
4) Survey | Google | Using Pixel 5 or Higher | Focus is on the Google Assistant
Closes: November 2nd 2022 Team: Assistant on Pixel. Length of Study: 90 minutes. Date(s): October 20th 2022 to November 2nd 2022. Details: All users must own a Pixel 5 or higher phone. All users must use Mobile Assistant weekly on their Pixel phone, preferably with SIM card. All users must use a mobile device that has screen sharing via Google Meet and a second device (laptop or computer) for audio communication. Incentive: $100 USD / $125 CAD for 90 mins. Location: Remote USA / Canada. Link for participating:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfRXhnv5rQgOlx42-Ulyj5OmedsasqQyea6XVMlgghmpTJN5A/viewform
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Podcast Episode for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-podcast-episode or locate "Podcast Episode Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Mosen at Large Episode 203: iPhone And iOS Feedback, Comments On The Envision Smart Glasses, Another Beatles Remix And More
October 22nd 2022https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/842775fd/iphone-and-ios-feedback-comments-on-the-envision-smart-glasses-another-beatles-remix-and-more
2) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 98: Navigating With Wave Out - Audio Navigation
October 22nd 2022 | In this episode we first inform our listeners that we have crossed the milestone of 750 YouTube subscribers. We then tell the listeners to join our 100th episode party email contactus@blindandroidusers.com 📧️ and we will share the link to join, the 100th episode will be recorded on November 5th 2022 at 9:00 AM PT. We then interview Hugo Furtado, developer of WaveOut an audio navigation app for Android and iOS. We then show you, the latest features of CSR, how to disable key echo and the shake your phone. In the tip of the week, we show the feature talked about at the Made by Google Event which as of this recording is only available in USA on Pixel 3A and higher, Hold For Me and Direct My Call. Listen here:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqqtLYqIQeJ0PX11zsbSJ4ZU
3) Eyes on Success Episode 2243: How to Find Accessible Games
October 26th 2022 | If you enjoy gaming on your iOS or other device and are also visually impaired, it is likely that you have experienced the frustration of finding a game that is accessible. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey speak with Aaron Spelker, who runs the Mobile Accessible Games (for the Blind) Facebook group, about his game reviews that can ease the frustration:
http://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show_notes_2243.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Webinar, Training Course or Event for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-event or locate "Webinar / Training Course Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) October 2022 Orbit Research Zoom Meeting
October 28th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Richard Turner, and his wife Carol, are inviting you to the October Orbit Research zoom meeting set for October 28, at 9 AM pacific, 11 AM Central, Noon Eastern, and 5 PM in the UK. Robert couldn't host this month so asked me to do it and since my wife has a paid account, she will be assisting on the call for raised hands, etc. | Meeting ID: 890 8115 2310 | Passcode: 735975 | One tap mobile: +12532158782,,89081152310#,,,,*735975# US (Tacoma) | +13462487799,,89081152310#,,,,*735975# US (Houston):
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89081152310?pwd=NHIwMlZqNUsvYy9ETnR2YXZSRDVXQT09
2) Inclusive Cybersecurity Workshop For Middle And High School Students
October 28th 2022 | 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 11PM GMT | The goal is to explore cybersecurity concepts with fun games and puzzles. This is for beginners and no experience needed in computer programming etc. At the end of the workshop, we believe that the kids would like to learn more about cyber and technology opportunities. The workshop is designed to be accessible to all. Agenda: Protecting Information online. Ciphers and Encryption. Online Scavenger Hunt. Quiz. Please enroll here to join:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1Nii4FvGm0Oe3mh76c9j7lCSCLrHYzWr8f4qqcVsAEz8/viewform?ts=633a4fdc&edit_requested=true
3) Fourth Annual Digital Accessibility Legal Summit | Sponsored By TPGi
November 1st 2022 and November 2nd 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | TPGi is proud to sponsor the Fourth Annual Digital Accessibility Legal Summit, a virtual conference and we invite you to join us on Tuesday & Wednesday, November 1st & 2nd, from 12:00 Noon to 5:00 PM Eastern Time each day. Attendees and presenters will range from digital accessibility consultants to governmental personnel to lawyers "from both the plaintiff and defendant side of the legal landscape." Come and attend a talk led by Vispero's (TPGi's parent company) Director of Business Development, Laura Boniello Miller, "Emerging legal issues in... Unattended Retail: What could possibly go wrong for customers with disabilities?" from 2:15 PM to 2:45 PM on day 2:
https://www.tpgi.com/tpgi-sponsor-fourth-annual-digital-accessibility-legal-summit/
4) Fourth Annual Digital Accessibility Legal Summit | Sponsored By TPGi
November 2nd 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | TPGi is proud to sponsor the Fourth Annual Digital Accessibility Legal Summit, a virtual conference and we invite you to join us on Tuesday & Wednesday, November 1st & 2nd, from 12:00 Noon to 5:00 PM Eastern Time each day. Attendees and presenters will range from digital accessibility consultants to governmental personnel to lawyers "from both the plaintiff and defendant side of the legal landscape." Come and attend a talk led by Vispero's (TPGi's parent company) Director of Business Development, Laura Boniello Miller, "Emerging legal issues in... Unattended Retail: What could possibly go wrong for customers with disabilities?" from 2:15 PM to 2:45 PM on day 2:
https://www.tpgi.com/tpgi-sponsor-fourth-annual-digital-accessibility-legal-summit/
5) WordPress Accessibility Day
November 2nd 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | WordPress Accessibility Day is a free, 24-hour online event scheduled to start at 15:00 UTC (11:00 US Eastern, 8:00 US Pacific) on Wednesday, November 2nd. The conference will be held virtually so you can present from anywhere worldwide. Here are some other important things to know about speaking at WordPress Accessibility Day: We will provide an accessible speaking experience — the presentation platform will be screen reader-friendly, and we will have captions and sign language interpretation available for speakers as needed. You don't have to have speaking experience! We would love to have first-time speakers present and can support you in presenting as needed. You don't have to be an "expert" or have any special certifications. Anyone with something to share related to accessibility on the web or in WordPress is invited to apply. You can share your journey learning about accessibility or your experience as a person with a disability even if you don't think you've reached the end of that journey yet. Your topic doesn't have to be explicitly WordPress related. While we want some talks specific to WordPress and want to encourage developer-level presentations, not all talks need to be specific to WordPress. General website accessibility talks with broad applications for websites of all types and people of all levels of technical abilities are welcome. If you have an idea for a talk to share your knowledge or experiences about the intersection of WordPress and accessibility, we'd love to hear it!
https://wpaccessibility.day/weekend-plans-apply-to-speak-at-wp-accessibility-day/
6) ONYX Family of Magnifiers: Portable & Powerful (ACVREP CE Approved) | Access Ingenuity
November 2nd 2022 | 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 11PM GMT | The ONYX family of video magnifiers combines ease of use with powerful yet portable features to help people retain their independent lifestyle - reading, writing, viewing photographs and engaging in hobbies. Did you know there are three different ONYX models? The ONYX DeskSet and ONYX OCR offer larger screens and can adapt to multiple environments and tasks for productivity at school, work, and home. Modern camera technology and HD displays provide a clear, crisp picture with a wide range of magnification and color-coded controls. The ONYX Pro takes portability to the next level by combining it with the Surface 7 tablet to provide the ultimate tool for mobile magnification and reading tasks. During this webinar, we discuss the features and benefits all the ONYX models can give in specific situations. Join Ian Ramos and Joe McDaniel from Vispero as they dive deep into these powerful tools to help those challenged by vision loss.
Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: Features of all ONYX models. How to determine which model fits your needs best. How adding speech capability can take you further. Benefits of portable, powerful visual tools. | Meeting ID: 859 6552 3448 | Passcode: 173081 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,85965523448#,,,,*173081# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85965523448?pwd=RklNZkpzQkRLcGc0bFprYjJGYzN1QT09#success
7) What's New with ARC Toolkit | TPGi
November 3rd 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | ARC Toolkit is more than just a way to quickly find accessibility issues by scanning a page; but is a series of tools that can help developers, QA, and accessibility testers alike perform the additional tests needed to determine if a screen is accessible. Learn about ARC Toolkit and ask questions about what it can do and what it can do for you:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-november-3-at-12pm-et-whats-new-with-arc-toolkit/
8) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 2: Emergent Literacy and LEGO Braille Bricks | APH
November 4th 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Let's discover together the countless possibilities for developing pre-braille skills using LEGO Braille Bricks and other manipulative tools:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
9) Let's Go Shopping 7 | Elegant Insights
November 4th 2022 | We're just a month away! The 2022 holiday edition of Let's Go Shopping is scheduled for Friday, November 4th 2022 and Saturday, November 5th 2022. Several business owners have already sent in their RSVP, with an intent to present attendees with a full slate of fabulous gift ideas, so you can shop 'til you drop right from the comfort of your home. I'll have a few new vendors for you, as well as returning favorites. I'll also have a new hour set aside just to help with overburdened budgets this year, thanks to inflation. Any vendor who joins us for the inflation-fighters hour has pledged to offer at least one item at a deep discount. While of course, every little bit helps, I'll be honest, a measly ten percent discount barely gets my attention. The Let's Go Shopping entrepreneurs have agreed to do better than that, at least for one special item. We'll also have the usual stocking stuffers hour, where vendors with smaller gifts that would make great "secret Santa," "white elephant" gift exchanges, or thoughtful stocking fillers will share their products, all under $20.00. Finally, we'll also have our end of the day happy hour, our casual Q and A session for those who may have missed some info during a vendor presentation. Here's the important part: If you know of anyone who would like to join us, either as a vendor, or as an attendee, please send them our link below. It's the main information page for Let's Go Shopping, and they can subscribe to our groups list for all the relevant details, including the Zoom virtual shopping mall login. They can also send a blank email to: lgs+subscribe@groups.io 📧️. to sign up to our announce list. This is where all the most important info is posted, including special sales, promos, giveaways, and the event schedule and vendor directory. So, please share this message! Get ready to shop for the best gifts from the best variety of small business owners anywhere, and get your gift list checked off early. Ready for a little retail therapy? Let's Go Shopping! Laura Legendary, Founder, Let's Go Shopping Virtual Events:
https://accessibleinsights.info/blog/lets-go-shopping/
10) Let's Go Shopping 7 | Elegant Insights
November 5th 2022 | We're just a month away! The 2022 holiday edition of Let's Go Shopping is scheduled for Friday, November 4th 2022 and Saturday, November 5th 2022. Several business owners have already sent in their RSVP, with an intent to present attendees with a full slate of fabulous gift ideas, so you can shop 'til you drop right from the comfort of your home. I'll have a few new vendors for you, as well as returning favorites. I'll also have a new hour set aside just to help with overburdened budgets this year, thanks to inflation. Any vendor who joins us for the inflation-fighters hour has pledged to offer at least one item at a deep discount. While of course, every little bit helps, I'll be honest, a measly ten percent discount barely gets my attention. The Let's Go Shopping entrepreneurs have agreed to do better than that, at least for one special item. We'll also have the usual stocking stuffers hour, where vendors with smaller gifts that would make great "secret Santa," "white elephant" gift exchanges, or thoughtful stocking fillers will share their products, all under $20.00. Finally, we'll also have our end of the day happy hour, our casual Q and A session for those who may have missed some info during a vendor presentation. Here's the important part: If you know of anyone who would like to join us, either as a vendor, or as an attendee, please send them our link below. It's the main information page for Let's Go Shopping, and they can subscribe to our groups list for all the relevant details, including the Zoom virtual shopping mall login. They can also send a blank email to: lgs+subscribe@groups.io 📧️. to sign up to our announce list. This is where all the most important info is posted, including special sales, promos, giveaways, and the event schedule and vendor directory. So, please share this message! Get ready to shop for the best gifts from the best variety of small business owners anywhere, and get your gift list checked off early. Ready for a little retail therapy? Let's Go Shopping! Laura Legendary, Founder, Let's Go Shopping Virtual Events:
https://accessibleinsights.info/blog/lets-go-shopping/
11) AT Gifts for the Holidays | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Our annual look at gadgets and gizmos that will make your holiday season a successful one. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
12) Creating Source Files in Microsoft Office for PDF Remediation | Access Ingenuity
November 9th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Microsoft Office offers many tools that make remediation in PDF quicker and more successful. Join Rachel Reeves from Access Ingenuity to learn tips, tricks, and best practices for creating your documents in Microsoft Office with the intent to convert them to PDF. Learning Outcomes: Discover best practices in formatting standard document elements. Explore the WCAG 2.1 color requirements that may apply to your content. Introduction to creating PDFs directly from Microsoft Office. | Meeting ID: 874 1435 1888 | Passcode: 514898 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,87414351888#,,,,*514898# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose). Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87414351888?pwd=b0dvS2NPcUtjTnVYbzZCWEFBdVRhdz09#success
13) ATHEN Annual Meeting 2022
November 9th 2022 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Please hold the date for the ATHEN Annual Meeting. All are welcome to attend the ATHEN Annual Meeting which will take place Wednesday, November 9th 2022 from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM Eastern. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information and the Zoom link for joining the meeting. Real-Time Captioning will be provided. If you would like to request any additional disability-related accommodations, please indicate this on the Zoom form or contact me at: athenpresident@gmail.com 📧️. Register in advance for this meeting at:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUkd-qoqzkjHtfDz8f_4AG70f5HKm-EouSi
14) How Anyone Can Manage Accessibility Program — Ask Me Anything (AMA) | TPGi
November 9th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenter: Aaron Farber, Senior Accessibility Platform Consultant. The foundation for an accessibility program is having a clear, repeatable process for accessibility testing — with roles and responsibilities mapped to each step from design to development. If you are leading your organization's accessibility effort, you need an accessibility resource center to create accessible online experiences consistently and provide defensible data to stakeholders. Join TPGi's Aaron Farber, Senior Accessibility Platform Consultant, for an Ask Me Anything (AMA) session and get answers to your accessibility questions. This AMA session is great for product managers, content teams, UX teams, and marketers:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-november-9-at-12pm-et-how-anyone-can-manage-accessibility-program-ask-me-anything-ama/
15) How To Scale a Sustainable Accessibility Program | TPGi
November 9th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenters: Mark Miller, TPGi's Director of Sales, and Kelly Mahoney, 3Play Media's Content & Partner Marketing Specialist. This webinar will explore what it takes to scale accessibility programs for enterprise organizations. From the foundations of digital accessibility to the actionable steps your organization can take moving forward, we'll dig into the details of what it looks like to ensure accessible content, policies, and practices are baked in from the beginning. Key takeaways: What is digital accessibility and how should it influence your organization? Actionable steps you can take toward digital accessibility, including remediation tools and services. What do accessibility policies/programs look like at an enterprise organization?
https://www.tpgi.com/how-to-scale-a-sustainable-accessibility-program/
16) Usability and Accessibility for Digital Marketers — Delight Your Audience With Inclusive UX
November 10th 2022 | Presenters: Digital Marketing Institute, TPGi's Principal UX David Swallow, TPGi's UX Practice Manager David Sload, and Marketing Educator and Author Will Francis. Digital channels provide an opportunity for you to effectively reach and grow your target audience, communicate with them, provide information, build brand relationships, and enable transactions. The related concepts of usability and accessibility address the importance of removing barriers to efficient, effective, and enjoyable digital interactions for all users, including users with disabilities. When barriers are present, we risk brand damage, losing our audience to competitors, and potentially unlawful discrimination against people with disabilities. But how can we ensure usable and accessible digital experiences? To mark World Usability Day 2022, accessibility and user experience specialists David Swallow and David Sloan will make the argument that a focus on the needs of people with disabilities can help digital marketers deliver better user experiences for everyone. We'll define key concepts of usability, accessibility, and inclusive design and provide practical tips that everyone involved in digital marketing can apply in their work to make their digital experiences more accessible and usable:
https://www.bigmarker.com/digital-marketing-institute/Usability-and-Accessibility-for-Digital-Marketers-Delight-Your-Audience-with-Inclusive-UX
17) National Federation of the Blind of Maryland 2022 Annual Convention
November 11th 2022 to November 14th 2022 | Get ready for a weekend of fun and fellowship. Come and be part of celebrating our accomplishments and planning for the future! Place: Sheraton Baltimore North Hotel, 903 Dulaney Valley Road, Towson, MD 21204. Meet our keynote speaker and National Representative, Donald Porterfield, President of the NFB of Arizona, Board Member of the NFB, and a criminal prosecutor. Explore opportunities through special workshops for parents and teachers of blind children, blind merchants and entrepreneurs, and students. Check out our technology workshops and more. Examine new products at the exhibit hall on Friday. Help us raise expectations for ourselves and for officials who manage services for the blind:
https://nfbmd.org/convention/2022
18) Zoom Meeting for JAWS: Getting Help & Accessing Existing Training Materials | Access Ingenuity
November 16th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Get to know the various tools, help menu options, and free training materials that already exist with JAWS. Join Rachel Reeves, Marisa Church, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity to discover ways you can get assistance with concepts, commands, exercises, additional web resources, and more. Learning Outcomes: Various help tools of JAWS, including Keyboard Help, Screen Sensitive Help, etc. Additional help from the help menu includes the manual, web resources, and free training. Free training web resources include the Freedom Scientific Training YouTube channel, Free Webinars Training page, Surf's Up Training website, etc. | Meeting ID: 886 5246 9982 | Passcode: 215449 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,88652469982#,,,,*215449# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose). Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88652469982?pwd=WnB6L21JbnZwZEpMMEJVM0N2K3VuUT09#success
19) Live and Virtual Technology Fair | Carroll Center for the Blind
November 22nd 2022 | The Carroll Center for the Blind's in person Technology Fair is back! 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. The Technology Fair is free and open to consumers, families, friends, and professionals:
https://carroll.org/events/live-and-virtual-technology-fair/
20) ACB's 2022 Audio Description Awards Gala
November 29 2022 | The American Council of the Blind (ACB) proudly announces the second annual Audio Description Awards Gala on November 29, 2022. The Gala will once again celebrate outstanding achievements in audio description in media and expand awareness of its benefits. In recent years there has been enormous success in expanding audio description for audiences who are blind, low vision, or have other sensory disabilities that create barriers to full inclusion in visual media. "The Audio Description Awards Gala will celebrate the best of the best within the art and science of inclusive audio-described media," said Eric Bridges, ACB's Executive Director. "Together we will work to expand awareness of the transformative value that audio description brings to the lives of people with disabilities:"
https://acb.org/save-the-date-2022-AD-Awards
21) PDF Accessibility Training for Organizations | Access Ingenuity
November 30th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Creating accessible PDF documents is essential for most organizations' digital accessibility process. However, organizations often struggle to get their staff trained and efficient at creating accessible PDFs and other accessible digital content. The first step is identifying document creators within the organization and the types of documents they're developing. Depending on the findings, standard and advanced PDF accessibility training may be required. Join Michael Parker from Access Ingenuity to review lessons we learned from creating digital accessibility training and how to apply them to your organization. Learning Outcomes: Understand the components of a comprehensive PDF accessibility training program. Understand the importance of creating accessible templates and using accessible color palettes. Breaking the training down into manageable chunks - from beginners to advanced users. Meeting ID: 883 8806 6414 | Passcode: 878053 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,88388066414#,,,,*878053# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose). Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88388066414?pwd=RU9tQU02ZDlRVjZzWlpwZHVGZjBSUT09
22) Blind Health Expo | The Accessible Pharmacy
December 2nd 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | The Accessible Pharmacy Blind Health Expo will be the largest virtual expo of healthcare information, products, services, and medication for individuals who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision. Join thousands of other attendees and register now for free!
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/blind-health-expo/
23) 2022 Sight Tech Global — Shaping New Technologies to Create a More Accessible World for People with Blindness and Visual Impairments
December 7th 2022 and December 8th 2022 | Sponsored by Google, APH, Amazon, Humanware, Microsoft, Fable, LinkedIn, and Waymo, 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. Register for free:
https://sighttechglobal.com/
24) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
December 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
25) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 3: Creative Manual Activities for Christmas | APH
December 12th 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Christmas is a great time to create crafts. Let's share amazing and fun tactile ideas adapted to visually impaired children:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
26) Training Course: Catching Up with JAWS Chapter 4 for JAWS 2022 and 2023 | Hartgen Consultancy
December 14th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Catching Up with JAWS is priced £35 which is approximately 40 American dollars. Now is your chance to get some high quality training on some of the latest features within the screen-reader JAWS for Windows which have been introduced over the past two years. This follows on from our previous popular training courses on this subject. These training courses are still popular and people are purchasing the older volumes in the series even today:
https://www.hartgen.org/catchup4
27) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 4: Braille Around the World | APH
January 4th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Let's celebrate Louis Braille's Day and explore different braille codes around the world:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
28) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 5: School Aged Numeracy | APH
February 1st 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Using LEGO Braille Bricks to do math: let's discover some of the many uses of these little bricks to develop numerical and geometry skills, understand symmetry, and much more:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
29) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 6: Daily Living Activities | APH
March 6th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Let's explore daily-living activities using LEGO Braille Bricks and share our best practices, experiences, tips:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
30) 2023 3rd Annual Axe-Con | Building Accessible Experiences | The World's Largest Digital Accessibility Conference
March 15th 2022 and March 16th 2023 | Deque Systems, the trusted leader in digital accessibility, has announced the third annual axe-con conference will return on March 15-16th, 2023. With the success of axe-con over the past two years, Deque will continue to host the conference as a free virtual event again next year. 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:
https://www.deque.com/blog/save-the-date-for-axe-con-2023/
31) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 7: Music | APH
April 5th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Let's discover together how to make music with these famous bricks! Come and share your creative ideas:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
32) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 8: STEM | APH
May 3rd 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Have you ever thought of doing science, computing, or technology with LEGO Braille Bricks? Expert guests will join us for an amazing session:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
33) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 9: Orientation & Mobility | APH
June 7th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | LEGO bricks to build plans, visualize routes, it's not new! But with LEGO Braille Bricks you can also create labels, add letters, words... Then it becomes really great:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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
✍ List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. Fill out this short form to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-buy-sell-trade or learn more on the Top Tech Tidbits website.
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
➜ 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
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: That Real Blind Tech Show
➜ That Real Blind Tech Show Episode 96: We Got More Resolutions, ACB Style!
It's a fully packed That Real Blind Tech show lair. Join us as we recap this year's ACB Resolutions. We chime in with all of our opinions about this year's resolutions, and as usual some hilarity ensues. You will not want to miss both AirPods issues that take place on this episode. We are adding do not listen to That Real Blind Tech show on the bus as we are not responsible for the stares you will receive when laughing or cackling like a lunatic!
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-96-we-got-more-resolutions-acb-style
Sponsor Since: August 11th 2022
Website: https://blindtechshow.com/ 🌐
Email: ThatRealBlindTechShow@gmail.com 📧️
Social: Facebook Page | Facebook Group | Twitter
Listen: Apple Podcasts | Audible | Google Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube
Hosts: Brian Fischler | Ed Plumacher | Allison Meloy | Jenine Stanley
Goals: We want to educate you on the latest tech for the blindness community. You'll learn what is worth keeping and what you need to return. Our goals are: To inform, inspire and educate our audience. Feature guests and products that bring you value. Continuously improve and deliver the best content.
About: A podcast discussing the good & bad of assistive technology for the low vision & totally blind. No longer focused on just Apple VoiceOver technology. That Real Blind Tech show covers all the fantastic talking tech and gadgets out there for the low vision and blindness community. Common topics include Apple's VoiceOver, JAWS, Microsoft Narrator, NVDA, Amazon Alexa and VoiceView, Google Assistant and Android. Basically, if a device can talk to you, we are going to be talking about it. That Real Blind Tech Show will not only educate you, but it will also make you laugh. Listeners are encouraged to not use treadmills or drink hot coffee while listening to our show, or accidents can and have occurred. Dishes have been broken while listening to That Real Blind Tech Show, and while we are responsible for the laughs, we are in no way responsible for the injuries or bills that pile up. Remember to keep it Real and also don't believe anything you hear on That Real Blind Tech Show.
Home | Episodes | Blog | Contact | Subscribe
Sponsor: Aira
➜ Webinar: Discovering Aira and Content Creation | October 25th 2022 at 2:00 PM ET
Creating content for the ever-expanding media world is a growing profession. During #NDEAM2022 we want to spotlight how blind and low vision people are working in this space. Whether for income or personal brand, these creators integrate visual interpreting into their processes. We'll also get advice from Aira Agents on how to make the most of visual interpreting when creating your content. Join us Tuesday, October 25th 2022 at 2:00pm Eastern time. Register at:
https://aira.zoom.us/webinar/register/9116639399059/WN_g9O7k3RaR7mYYT1ODnm0cA
Sponsor Since: August 4th 2022
Website: https://aira.io/ 🌐
Download the App: Apple App Store | Google Play Store
Plans and Pricing: https://aira.io/pricing/
Phone: NA: +1.800.835.1934 📱️ | AU: +1.800.765.096 📱️ | UK: +0.800.046.5668 📱️ | NZ: +1.800.425.451 📱️
Text Message: NA: +1.858.242.4457 📲 | AU: +61.488.839.767 📲 | UK: +44.149.320.2474 📲
Email: support@aira.io 📧️
Social: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
About: Aira's mission is to remove barriers and make the world more accessible with visual interpreting.
We provide a live, human-to-human professional assistance service, an accommodation or productivity tool, that enhances independence by delivering on-demand, skilled and reliable visual interpreting for just about any task. Using the powerful combination of a camera and the Aira app on someone's device of 'choice', a professionally-trained agent will assist by visually interpreting what is in the camera's view or on screen, from describing to reading, from explaining to navigating - just about anything, safely and securely. Aira supports a growing range of devices including smart and tactile button phones, desktop computers and soon, wearables.
Whether you are involved in the work of business, the work of school or the work of life, Aira enhances everyday efficiency, engagement, and independence. Used by employees and customers of hundreds of organizations including airports, banks, the largest software companies, financial firms, retailers and universities, we invite you to join the community, access the Aira app today and try it for free.
https://aira.io/download-and-try-it/
Step One: Subscribe and Download. Pick the plan that lets you explore on your terms and on your time, sign up in a few minutes, and download the Aira app to your smartphone. Plans shown are for the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Add or cancel at any time.
Step Two: Connect with an Aira Agent. On the first call, connect with one of our certified, specially-trained Agents and learn how everything works.
Step Three: Real-time Assistance. At the touch of a button, Aira delivers instant access to visual information, when and where you want it.
Sponsor: Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
➜ Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore: Touch Tomorrow in Today's Products
Serving blind people since 1999, we're a family-owned, forward-thinking company offering both tried-and-true and exciting new products for blind and low vision consumers. We design and carry self-voicing educational software, Braille supplies, talking gadgets, adapted household items, tactile card and board games, audible toys and gift ideas. Passionate about innovation, we've also created dozens of products from scratch when a suitable solution did not exist. Shop online at http://www.braillebookstore.com/ and enjoy fast, free shipping.
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: http://www.braillebookstore.com/ 🌐
Phone (Toll Free): (800) 987-1231 📱️
Fax (Toll Free): (800) 985-1231 ░
Email: Sales@BrailleBookstore.com 📧️
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time.
About: Welcome to Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore. We have been supplying products to blind people and their families since 1999. We offer thousands of Braille books, toys, games, kitchen aids, and talking products. We have unbeatable prices, fast, free shipping, and great customer service! We have tons of Braille books and cool products to choose from; so grab a cup of coffee, relax, and we'll give you a quick tour:
Products:
➜ Timekeeping
➜ Housewares
➜ On The Go
➜ Low Vision Products
➜ Toys and Games
➜ Gift Shop
➜ Braille Workshop
➜ Braille Bookstore
➜ Greeting Cards
➜ Copy Center
➜ Computer Lab
➜ Popular Products
➜ New Products
If you need some fresh ideas or have questions, you can also check out our Shopping Guides.
Sponsor: Fable
➜ Free and Accessible Training for the Tech Sector
Fable Pathways helps you gain the skills that you need to work in the tech sector with a free, accessible, and on-demand program. Learn from industry leaders with disabilities to take your career to the next level, like Kelly Ford, Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, who introduces GitHub and VS Code using a screen reader. Spend less time and energy trying to access courses with your assistive technology and focus on the content that matters to you, with Fable Pathways' accessible platform. Sign up today!
https://www.fablepathways.com/
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: https://fablepathways.com/ 🌐
Email: community@makeitfable.com 📧️
Phone: (888) 212-3532 📱️ Extension 810
About: Just like curb cuts help everyone get on and off sidewalks, designing digital products with accessibility in mind helps make the internet more accessible for everyone. Fable is an accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities. Fable connects people with disabilities to accessibility managers, user researchers, designers, and developers to build incredible and accessible user experiences.
Opportunities:
➜ Fable Pathways: Fable Pathways is a free skill development program for people with disabilities interested in working in the tech sector. Sign up to take your career to the next level. Courses include "Getting started in web development" taught by Kelly Ford, a screen reader user, and Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, and "Becoming a manager" taught by Fable's Head of Accessibility Innovation, Kate Kalcevich. Instructors are subject matter experts in their fields and have lived experience with disability. Pathways courses are free, self-paced and assistive-technology-friendly. Sign up now at https://fablepathways.com/.
➜ Fable's Community of Accessibility Testers: Work from home to contribute to real changes in digital accessibility and make the internet a more accessible place for everyone. Ever leave a website because it was too hard to navigate? Because it was missing button labels? Because it didn't respond to voice commands? Us too. Our community of testers who use assistive technologies work from home and contribute to real changes in digital accessibility with recognizable brands. Earn money to share your feedback on websites and apps of your favorite brands and work with companies that care. No experience required and no resume required. Fable is looking for assistive technology users in the USA and Canada to work the hours that they want, from the comfort of their own homes. Learn more at https://fablepathways.com/community/.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ Dolphin Friends Program
If you work for a non-profit, charity or society that provides services to people with visual impairments, we invite you to take part in our Dolphin Friends Program. Dolphin will outfit your center with assistive technology solutions that can benefit your clients who need to remain independent, are trying to sharpen their technology skills for employment and more. Learn more about becoming a Dolphin Friend:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/join-dolphin-friends
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Sponsor: Clusiv
➜ Looking For Blind Job-Seekers Wanting To Advance Their Salaries, Careers And Digital Accessibility For The Blind
Are you interested in learning new tech skills and working remotely while earning a competitive salary? At Clusiv.io we have created the world's first digitally accessible e-Learning platform built by the blind, and built for the blind. Visit the link provided and request Clusiv through your Vocational Rehab counselor for lifetime access to our e-Learning platform with courses such as Business Applications, JAWS, and more:
https://clusiv.io/
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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 from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Control the climate of your home independently! The VIP 3000 is a universal heating — cooling talking thermostat This accessible digital thermostat is specifically designed to offer audio playback of indoor temperature, temperature settings and programming instructions so blind and visually impaired users can independently & precisely manage their indoor comfort. Don't over pay. Read more at:
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 every day 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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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 Next Generation in Accessibility
Need to quickly access a distant computer with minimal fuss? Need to quickly convert image documents into readable text? Today's students and working professionals demand more of their technology. Employers expect more of their workforce. Pneuma Solutions is bridging the gap using the best in machine learning to connect you to your environment when you need it, how you need it. Give us a try, and experience accessibility on a whole new level:
https://pneumasolutions.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
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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Combine Learning And Gaming For A Fun Braille Adventure With Polly!
APH and Thinkerbell Labs are excited to introduce Polly, complete with customizable UEB lessons, songs, games, and stories! Join our waiting list to know when Polly is available:
https://www.aph.org/polly-wait-list/
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
➜ Fall Specials Means Take Advantage Of Our "Fall-Ing" Prices On These Items
Heavy-duty cowhide 19 inch rucksack style backpack; 50 percent off; now only $50.00. How low can you go with our 7 pocket 17.5 by 7 by 5 inch RFID and CCW leather waist pack with a built-in cane holder (that's what the holster is really for) $30.00 while supplies last. Valuables protection with our cowhide leather chest pack with flip up phone holder for use with AIRA; big ten inch square by 4 inch compartment can easily hold a day's essentials, reduced from $70 to $50; Our 60 inch titanium telescopic locking canes are flying out of here so fast that it feels like their winter sojourn is already happening; $80 including shipping; And, if you want to hibernate also, the most comfortable wired earbuds for sleepy listening you will ever find, from JVC $20.00. For these specials, call GuideLights and Gadgets: Barry at (617) 969-7500 📱️, or Kae at (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, affordable, and, whenever possible, fun! Our inventory is constantly changing, so a visit to us is never the same experience twice!
Your Name Here
0 of 18 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are currently 0 of 18 packages available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, October 20, 2022 - Volume 881
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.
Subscribers: 7,517 Opt-In Subscribers were sent this issue via email. 151 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Learn From Leading Disability Rights Advocate Judy Heumann, With Fable Pathways Latest Course, Advocating For Work
Everyone deserves the opportunity to work. As people with disabilities, some of us need to advocate for ourselves to get those opportunities. Learn the skills you need to advance your career from world-renowned disability rights advocate, Judy Heumann. Take Judy's course, Advocating for work (opens new link), with Fable's free, on-demand learning program, Fable Pathways.
Judy Heumann is an internationally recognized disability rights activist across the United States and beyond. She is featured in the award-winning documentary Crip Camp and is the host of the podcast 'The Heumann Perspective.' Whether you're entering the work sector for the first time or trying to get a promotion, this course will teach you how to gain access to new opportunities to advance your career. Gain confidence in how to expand your network, share your story, and disrupt the status quo.
Sign-up and learn more at: https://hubs.ly/Q01pZ-GT0.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Tidbit for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Three Features Make iOS 16 Great (8.7% of all clicks.)
This op ed is not accessibility specific, but offers some useful insights:
https://500ish.com/three-features-make-ios-16-great-93b509a9cea7
B.) Directly Editing Text Under Braille Screen Input Without Moving The Rotor | Applevis (4.6% of all clicks.)
The following guide has been inspired by this episode of the Apfel-Fleger Podcast, a podcast in German for blind users of Apple products. All credit goes to Jurgen Fleger and his friend for discovering and presenting this little trick:
https://www.applevis.com/guides/directly-editing-text-under-braille-screen-input-without-moving-rotor
C.) Everything New For Microsoft Edge From Ignite 2022 (3.5% of all clicks.)
Microsoft announced new security options, accessibility tools, and productivity features for Edge this week:
https://www.windowscentral.com/software-apps/browsing/everything-new-for-microsoft-edge-from-ignite-2022
D.) Lexmark Launches Two Accessibility Solutions For Printers And MFPs To Assist Visually Impaired Users (3.4% of all clicks.)
Lexmark International, Inc. has unveiled two features designed to provide people with visual impairments easier access to its range of printers and multi-function printers (MFPs):
https://www.albawaba.com/business/pr/lexmark-mfp-printers-442608
E.) Parcel Package Tracking App Updated With Siri Integration (3.0% of all clicks.)
Parcel is one of the most popular package tracking apps for iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch. This week, the app received a major update that added support for Siri commands, so users can now ask Apple's virtual assistant about the status of their packages:
https://9to5mac.com/2022/10/07/parcel-app-updated-with-siri-commands/
3) Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Packages | No Packages Currently Available
If you would like to support Top Tech Tidbits by becoming a Sponsor in the future please add your name to our waiting list today by sending an email to our Publisher at the address below. We will add your name to the list, let you know what position you currently hold within it, and then notify you the moment a package becomes available. There are currently three future Sponsors on the waiting list:
publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️
4) Premium Subscriber Updates
Premium Subscribers are entitled to all back issues, anytime they sign up. All available back issues will be sent to you via email within 24 hours of purchasing your subscription. Premium Subscribers will receive their 3rd Volume of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits for October, November and December 2022 on Monday, January 2nd 2023. If you would like to receive a perfectly formatted and searchable Word Document with each of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits of the last 3 months listed neatly within it, please consider joining us today for just $1 a month:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/premium-subscribers.html
5) Top Tech Tidbits Quarterly Sponsorship Rates Reduced From $325 USD Per Quarter to $300 USD Per Quarter Effective Immediately For All Quarterly Sponsors | Aaron Di Blasi | Publisher
As of today, Thursday, October 20th 2022, we are reducing the rate for all current and future Top Tech Tidbits Quarterly Sponsorship Packages from $325 USD per quarter to $300 USD per quarter. This now gives quarterly paying sponsors the very same discount that yearly paying sponsors currently enjoy. However, annual Sponsors will still enjoy the additional benefit of being able to schedule all 4 of their Featured Advertisements up to a year in advance. The purpose of this price difference initially was to provide an incentive for sponsors to choose the yearly payment option, which was incredibly helpful to us when we were attempting to build the ongoing funds necessary to maintain distribution of the publication. But now that we have these fund in place we don't want to continue taxing quarterly paying sponsors unnecessarily. So if you are a quarterly paying sponsor you will see this difference reflected on your next renewal invoice. On behalf of all of us here at Tidbits I would like to thank you, sincerely, for your ongoing support of the Top Tech Tidbits Publication. It means the world to so many. And we simply couldn't do it without you.
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/127.html
6) Top Tech Tidbits Weekly Scramble
The Top Tech Tidbits Weekly Scramble presents a single word or phrase related to adaptive or assistive technology whose letters have been scrambled. Can you put the letters back in the proper order to determine this week's word? Check your work next week where we'll provide the answer along with a new challenge.
LAST WEEK'S SCRAMBLE: CSEC SE SFOEAA = EASE OF ACCESS
NEW SCRAMBLE: TRTA ITEELNATXEV = (This phrase is 2 words with one space.)
7) AccessWorld September 2022
September updates include: Editor's Page
Editor's Notes: Style Sheets and Hearthstone Access | Conference Coverage: A Wrap-Up of Apple's "Far Out" Product Launch Event | Access Matters Access Tech — The Future of Haptic Helpers | Product Reviews and Guides: The RealSAM Pocket — Is This the Phone You've Been Waiting For? | Amazon Fire-TV Recast: Accessible Over-The-Air TV Channels With No Cable Bill:
https://www.afb.org/aw/full-issue?id=18062
8) Apple Announces New iPads and Apple TVs
A.) On Tuesday, October 18th 2022 Apple released new iPad devices:
https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2022/10/apple-unveils-completely-redesigned-ipad-in-four-vibrant-colors/
B.) iPad Pros:
https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2022/10/apple-introduces-next-generation-ipad-pro-supercharged-by-the-m2-chip/
C.) Apple TVs:
https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2022/10/apple-introduces-the-powerful-next-generation-apple-tv-4k/
9) Apple Glasses Accessibility Features Could Be A Huge Benefit, Suggests Disability Campaigner | Ben Lovejoy | 9To5Mac
Apple Glasses Accessibility features could see the long-rumored devices make a huge difference to the lives of those with disabilities. The point was made by Colin Hughes, the disability campaigner who recently shared the ways in which Apple tech allows him to live a more independent life despite almost no use of his limbs. I recently got to visit his London apartment to see for myself his combined Accessibility and HomeKit setup:
https://9to5mac.com/2022/10/17/apple-glasses-accessibility/
10) JAWS For Windows Scripts for Temporarily Suspending Braille
Some braille displays take quite a beating, as their dots dance up and down, trying to keep up with you as your jump around in a document or application with your keyboard. In many cases you are busy typing and listening, and are not even looking at the display. So, the wear and tear that occurred on the pins in the display was all for naught. You paid a wear and tear penalty but got nothing for it. And, if your display has a high failure rate, it's damage you would rather avoid. This simple script gives you a way to press a hot key, and freeze your display in place, until you press the key again, or until you do a say Line command to force an update. This free script can be incorporated into your default scripts, so it's available no matter where you are focused:
http://snowmanradio.com/SuspendBraille.html
11) Enhancements in JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion 2023 Public Beta 3
The latest public beta for Jaws, ZoomText, and Fusion 2023 has been released by Freedom Scientific:
https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/PublicBeta
12) Scheduling Secure Zoom Calls and Blocking Unwanted Guests
How can you set up a meeting and block uninvited people in Zoom for Mac too?
https://www.askdavetaylor.com/scheduling-secure-zoom-calls-and-blocking-unwanted-guests/
13) Enhancements in JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion 2023 Public Beta 3
https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/PublicBeta
14) NVDA 2022.3.1 Released
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/nvda-2022-3-1/
15) NVDA 2022.4 Beta 2 Available For Testing
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/nvda-2022-4beta2/
16) NV Access In Process for October 19th 2022
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-19th-october-2022/
17) From Vision Australia Radio: Leisure Link From October 15: Interview With David Bradburn of Humanware Regarding The Multi-line Braille Display From The Partnership of Humanware and APH | Tech-VI List | David Goldfield
This episode of Leisure Link starts out with Peter Greco interviewing David Bradburn, Humanware's Vice President for Global Sales. Peter talks about the multi-line Braille display being developed through the partnership between Humanware and APH. While the below link will take you to the page containing this episode Leisure Link can also be subscribed to as a podcast in your podcast player of choice:
https://omny.fm/shows/leisure-link/leisure-link-90min-15-oct-2022
18) How To Get The Windows 10 2022 Update
Microsoft has announced the availability of the Windows 10 2022 Update (also known as Windows 10, version 22H2):
https://blogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/2022/10/18/how-to-get-the-windows-10-2022-update/
19) Windows 11 Version 22H2 Optional Update Released
This update adds File Explorer tabs among other things:
https://www.thurrott.com/windows/274852/windows-11-version-22h2-optional-update-file-explorer-tabs
20) Making The Everyday Easier With New Experiences Available In Windows 11
Microsoft has announced the availability of new features in Windows 11 along with some exciting new experiences:
https://blogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/2022/10/18/making-the-everyday-easier-with-new-experiences-available-in-windows-11/
➜ Access Information News
✍ Submit your Access Information news item for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Cheaper Hearing Aids Hit Stores Today, Available Over The Counter For First Time
The U.S. The Food and Drug Administration approved the sale of over-the-counter hearing aids, and they go on sale on Tuesday, October 18th 2022. Often thousands of dollars and prescription only, aids now start at $199 at Walmart:
https://arstechnica.com/science/2022/10/cheaper-hearing-aids-hit-stores-today-available-over-the-counter-for-first-time/
2) Google on Alt Text SEO & Accessibility
Google's John Mueller and Lizzi Sassman discuss creating image alt text that's good for those using screen readers, briefly touching on what to do about decorative images and how it's tricky to write alt text that finds the balance between SEO and accessibility:
https://www.searchenginejournal.com/google-on-alt-text-seo-accessibility/468044/
3) Verizon's Call Filter Gets an Upgrade
Call Filter now helps identify callers by category so you can make more informed decisions on the calls you pick up and filter out the spam:
https://www.verizon.com/about/news/verizons-call-filter-gets-upgrade
4) October 2022 Accessibility Newsletter from TPGi
October 2022 updates include: Join us at the 10th M-Enabling Summit! | Accessibility Strategy Consulting | Single Page Applications | Improve your accessibility testing skills with FREE ARC training sessions:
https://email.tpgi.com/october-accessibility-newsletter-from-tpgi
5) From Pharrell's Inclusive Skincare Line To A Lube With Braille Writing, Consumer Brands Are Finally Starting To Think About Blind And Visually Impaired Customers | Berenice Magistretti | Forbes
Thinking inclusively as a brand sounds easy enough. Yet for the majority of companies out there, inclusion is an afterthought, often triggered by a PR scandal or public shaming on social media. Many brands don't think proactively about making their products and services accessible to those who live with a disability. On this World Sight Day, it's important to remember that globally, there are 43 million people who are blind and 295 million people who are visually impaired (including myself). And for those of us who cannot rely 100% on our vision, it's nice to "see" that some companies are more visionary than others:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/berenicemagistretti/2022/10/13/from-pharrells-inclusive-skincare-line-to-a-lube-with-braille-writing-consumer-brands-are-finally-starting-to-think-about-blind-and-visually-impaired-customers/?sh=123a05e95e41
6) After A Lifetime Of Blindness, Newly Sighted Can Immediately Identify Human Locomotion
A study on blind patients who recovered their sight suggests rethinking the belief that babies learn to recognize human movement through visual exposure:
https://news.mit.edu/2022/newly-sighted-can-immediately-identify-human-locomotion-1018
7) Meijer Partnership Makes Shopping Easier For The Blind And Visually Impaired
Meijer has partnered with the Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (ABVI) to make shopping in its stores much easier for blind and low-vision customers, this month and beyond:
https://www.fox17online.com/morning-mix/meijer-partnership-makes-shopping-easier-for-the-blind-and-visually-impaired
8) Online Archives in a Digitized World | APH
Have you ever done research in an archive? Maybe for a school project, or just researching a topic of personal interest? There's something special about visiting an archive, and burying your head in materials from a collection, hunting for that piece of information that will hopefully answer the question you're seeking — or possibly even send your research down a completely different path. Of course, COVID-19 threw a huge wrench in that experience. And although a lot of places (including APH) are welcoming in-person researchers once again, there may be other barriers to visiting an archive. Maybe the archive isn't located nearby, or you just need to look up one thing and don't need to search through the entire collection. While nothing can replace the experience of in-person research, there are a lot of practical benefits of online resources:
https://www.aph.org/online-archives-in-a-digitized-world/
9) Barilla® Adds QR Codes on Packaging to Assist Visually Impaired Customers in Expanded Partnership with Be My Eyes
The Italian family-owned food company continues first-of-its-kind collaboration with the innovative app to bring increased accessibility to consumers:
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/barilla-adds-qr-codes-on-packaging-to-assist-visually-impaired-customers-in-expanded-partnership-with-be-my-eyes-301651355.html
10) Haleon And Microsoft Use AI To Enhance Health Product Accessibility For People Who Are Blind Or Partially Sighted
On World Sight Day, October 13th 2022, Haleon and Microsoft launched a joint effort to make health products more accessible for people who are blind or have low vision, with artificial intelligence (AI) technology that narrates product labels:
Press Release: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/haleon-and-microsoft-use-ai-to-enhance-health-product-accessibility-for-people-who-are-blind-or-partially-sighted-301647940.html
Microsoft: https://news.microsoft.com/transform/haleon-harnesses-microsofts-seeing-ai-technology-to-make-health-product-information-more-accessible-for-people-who-are-blind-or-have-low-vision/
11) Chicago City Council Starts Delivery Robot Pilot
Chicago's city council has given the go-ahead for a pilot allowing delivery robots to use its pavements for making deliveries around the city. The University of Illinois Chicago pilot began by allowing Starship delivery robots to operate on its campus in 2021. The university has approached the city council to allow it to trial the robots on city streets outside of the campus. Alongside Starship, other delivery robot companies like NIO will also be allowed to apply for Emerging Business Permits too:
https://apex-insight.com/chicago-city-council-starts-delivery-robot-pilot/
12) New Xbox Service Lets Players Submit Accessibility Feedback To Developers
Xbox hosted its second annual Xbox Accessibility Showcase on October 13th 2022 as part of its month-long celebration of the Disability community, showcasing personal stories from gamers and announcing brand new features coming to their console and future titles. The updates include the introduction of a new service that lets players with disabilities submit feedback to developers:
https://www.digitaltrends.com/gaming/xbox-accessibility-showcase-news/
13) Abbott Has A New Glucose Monitor For Diabetics - It's So Small I Forgot I Was Wearing It | Erin Black | CNBC News
Abbott has just released its newest CGM, the FreeStyle Libre 3. It comes with an important upgrade. Whereas the previous systems were "flash" CGMs, which means you had to hold your reader or phone close to the sensor to get a reading, the new version sends data straight to your phone:
https://www.cnbc.com/2022/10/14/review-abbott-freestyle-libre-3-cgm-for-diabetics-.html
14) Be My Eyes and Vote.org Team Up Once Again To Make The Process of Registering and Preparing to Vote as Clear and Accessible as Possible | Be My Eyes
As blind and low-vision people, we are underestimated and underrepresented every day of our lives. Voting in an election is our chance to change that. We may only turn out a few million strong, but in an election, that can make a big difference. That's why, for the 2022 midterm election, Be My Eyes and Vote.org are teaming up again — to make sure that for any American with a visual impairment, the process of registering and preparing to vote is as clear and accessible as possible:
https://bit.ly/3EHVYYb
15) FDA Offers Clarification to States Regarding Final OTC Hearing Aid Rule
On October 13th 2022 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sent a letter to state officials offering clarifications about the Final Rule on OTC Hearing Aids, following requests by several professional organizations seeking to better understand the distinction between 'Prescription' and 'OTC' hearing aid categories:
https://hearinghealthmatters.org/hearingnewswatch/2022/fda-state-clarity-otc-hearing-aids/
16) 10K 'Easier-To-Use' COVID Tests For Visually Impaired Coming To NYC
The city will distribute 10,000 easier-to-read COVID-19 at-home test kits to visually-impaired New Yorkers. The at-home test kits — manufactured by Ellume and sent to New York City by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) — utilize easier-to-use test components for those who are blind or have low vision and communicate with a user's smartphone to give an electronic text readout of their result:
https://www.silive.com/coronavirus/2022/10/10k-easier-to-use-covid-tests-for-visually-impaired-coming-to-nyc.html
17) Retail And Information Kiosks And Bank ATMs Must Be Accessible Too
All the same drivers — ethical, legal, and commercial — apply to self-service machines. Think about where you've been over the last few weeks, or the last time you were in an airport. As you replay these journeys in your mind, note the number of self-service kiosks you encountered. One for depositing checks or withdrawing cash, another for purchasing tickets to a show or checking out at the grocery store, one more for finding your way at a shopping mall, and maybe several for ordering and paying for your meals. If you flew, you most likely interacted with the airline kiosk for checking in and securing your boarding pass:
https://www.deque.com/blog/retail-and-information-kiosks-and-bank-atms-must-be-accessible-too/
18) A Proclamation on Blind Americans Equality Day | 2022 | The White House
On Blind Americans Equality Day, we celebrate the essential contributions of blind and low-vision Americans, whose talents and strength shape every industry and every community:
https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2022/10/14/a-proclamation-on-blind-americans-equality-day-2022/
19) A Blind Woman Just Piloted An Airplane Across The Country
"This is just such a huge moment, not just for me and my family, but the entire visually impaired community," Kaiya Armstrong said:
https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/2022/10/13/kaiya-armstrong-blind-pilot-airplane/
20) Blind To Problems: VA's New Medical Record System Is Shutting Out Visually Impaired Patients
The VA has a new medical record system. One problem: The million patients and employees who are blind or low-vision say it's hard to use:
https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2022/10/18/veterans-affairs-record-system-visually-impaired-patients/10490153002/
➜ Surveys
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related survey for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-survey or locate "Survey Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Surveys | APH
Closes: Ongoing Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
2) Survey | Google | Keyboard-Only Navigation / Alternative Keyboard Users
Closes: October 28th Team: Google Material Design. Length of Study: 30 minutes. Date(s): October 24th 2022 to October 28th 2022. Details: Study is open to Keyboard-only navigation / Alternative Keyboard Users. Participants will evaluate a proposed design to evaluate assistive technology usage. Due to the nature of the design, we will not accept Screen-Reader users for this study. Incentive: $50 USD. Location: Remote USA/Canada. Link for participating:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScXe2NurYzKLjVlsxvzSKjQmuCdGTyGDPmSoTlb2FyOaJ7P5w/viewform
3) Survey: Paid Google Study For Those With Cognitive Accessibility Needs And / Or Those Who Aare Deaf / Hard of Hearing And Use A Tablet
Closes: October 31st 2022Google is undertaking a paid study for those with cognitive accessibility needs or those who are deaf / hard of hearing and use a tablet. Here is what is needed: User Type: Users with Cognitive Accessibility needs and users who are Deaf/Hard of Hearing. Product: Android. Length of Study: 90 minutes and short 3 day diary. Details: All users must use a Tablet Device (e.g. iPad, Samsung Galaxy Tab, Microsoft Surface, Lenovo Tab etc.) Open to Tablet users who also use Stylus, Tablet Keyboards, Smart Watches or Smart Displays. User will have a short 3-day follow up diary assignment. Thank-You Gifts: $100 USD / $125 CAD for 90 mins plus $45 USD / $60 CAD for short 3 day diary. Location: USA / Canada Remote. Link to participate with eligibility form:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfRSkeyvWv-EONUIW0b8i8A0V1CenF-lvmkoCve3l1QMgaeiQ/viewform?resourcekey=0-XdiLbrvGRjNN1l91oHSlIw
4) Survey | Google | Using Pixel 5 or Higher | Focus is on the Google Assistant
Closes: November 2nd 2022 Team: Assistant on Pixel. Length of Study: 90 minutes. Date(s): October 20th 2022 to November 2nd 2022. Details: All users must own a Pixel 5 or higher phone. All users must use Mobile Assistant weekly on their Pixel phone, preferably with SIM card. All users must use a mobile device that has screen sharing via Google Meet and a second device (laptop or computer) for audio communication. Incentive: $100 USD / $125 CAD for 90 mins. Location: Remote USA / Canada. Link for participating:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfRXhnv5rQgOlx42-Ulyj5OmedsasqQyea6XVMlgghmpTJN5A/viewform
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Podcast Episode for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-podcast-episode or locate "Podcast Episode Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Grandpa's White Cane | Hadley Presents: A Conversation with the Experts
October 14th 2022 | Jim Hoxie and Joanna Jones join us to discuss their children's book, "Grandpa's White Cane." Jim shares how vision loss shaped his life and how he and Joanna, a retired teacher, began instructing children about the importance of white cane awareness and the do's and don'ts for helping people with visual impairment:
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/grandpas-white-cane
2) Mosen at Large Episode 202: A Comprehensive Review And Demonstration Of The Envision Smart Glasses
October 15th 2022https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/9f3797ce/a-comprehensive-demonstration-and-review-of-the-envision-smart-glasses
3) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 97: Unboxing All Things Google
October 15th 2022 | In this episode we unbox all the things released in last week's Pixel Event. We unbox Google Chromecast 2022, Pixel Watch and Pixel 7 Pro. For our tip of the week, we show you how to use Google Voice dictation on a Samsung keyboard. If you want to join us on our upcoming 100th episode celebration on November 5th 2022, you can send an email to contactus@blindandroidusers.com 📧️. Listen here:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqp7ennprm_fujtdk8hzs-Ug
4) Blind Abilities Podcast | Episode 900: The Accessible Air Frier: Cosori Pro II — Second Generation Smart Device
October 17th 2022 | Whether you are on your own, off-campus living or just wanting access to an Air Frier, this 5.8 Quart basket Air Frier from Cosori is accessible through a free app as well as through the Amazon and Google smart devices. With just a little set up with the VeSync App, and the VeSync skill for your preferred smart device, the rest is all at your command. Set your time and Temp and you be cooking. Just like that! No buttons to label, mark or worry about. You can even receive a text message when the Cosori Pro II Air Frier is done cooking:
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7669
5) Unmute Presents S1 E10: October 18th 2022 Wayaround
October 18th 2022 | This week Marty Sobo and Michael Babcock of Unmute Presents have Michael Doise on to talk about Wayaround. WayAround is the app for your smart device that provides on-demand details about everyday things. The simple tag-and-scan approach lets you quickly and easily identify things around you. It also provides extra details, like how something works or when it expires. The result? Doing more of the things you want, with more confidence and more independence. You will receive a demo of the Wayaround app on an iPhone, an explanation of how the app is laid out, and some news Michael shared with the Unmute Listeners:
https://pnc.st/s/unmute-presents-on-acb-communi/719da73e/october-18th-wayaround
6) Eyes on Success Episode 2242: Remote Jazz Piano Instruction
October 19th 2022 | Have you always wanted to play the piano but just never got around to it or couldn't arrange the logistics? If so, then Mark Miller, who does business as the piano web man, has the answer for you. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Mark about how his remote piano lessons work for both sighted and visually impaired students alike:
http://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show_notes_2242.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Webinar, Training Course or Event for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-event or locate "Webinar / Training Course Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Hosting a Zoom Meeting with JAWS | Freedom Scientific
October 20th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Want to learn how to navigate the Zoom interface more efficiently with JAWS when scheduling meetings and other events? Objectives: Participants will learn how to: Navigate the Zoom interface. Schedule a meeting. Open and navigate the list of meeting participants. Start/stop screen share. Open accessibility settings. Freedom Scientific Presenters: Elizabeth Whitaker, Cathy Johnson, and Rachel Buchanan. ACVREP Credits: ACVREP credits will be available for those who attend the live webinar. Help Us Spread the Word: Please feel free to share this invitation with someone you think might benefit from attending. Register:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_URCFlNe4S0GF771EeDj0EQ
2) Democracy Live Workshop | Presenting The Latest in Accessible Electronic Voting | Florida Outreach Center for The Blind
October 20th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Please join The Florida Outreach Center for the Blind for our next exciting and informative workshop. We are excited to have a representative from Democracy Live. They will be presenting the latest electronic voting ballot where you can vote completely independently and in the comfort of your own home for the upcoming elections! This ballot is completely accessible and will allow an individual to use various screen readers/magnification software of their own choice. In addition, you can access the platform on your computer, tablet, or smart phone. A door prize will be given out at the conclusion of the meeting. If you have any questions regarding our workshop or any of our programs and services please call us at: (561) 642-0005 📱️ or email us at: info_focb@bellsouth.net 📧️. Also check us out on our brand-new web site at: https://www.floridaoutreachcenter.org/. We look forward to having you join us for our next exciting and informative workshop. Duration: 1:00 PM ET to 3:00 PM ET | Meeting ID: 835 8160 5488 | One tap mobile: +13126266799,,83581605488# | Dial directly: +1 312 626 6799 | Meeting ID: 835 8160 548. Zoom:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83581605488?pwd=UWYvTVZ2Q2RRejhJamVJREF4Rlltdz09
3) Where the Blind Work Webinar | NFB
October 21st 2022 | 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12AM, 10/22 GMT | Join the National Federation of the Blind as we celebrate the work and accomplishments of blind and low-vision people with a panel of successfully employed professionals. Plan to attend the Where the Blind Work Webinar scheduled for Friday, October 21, 2022, at 8:00 p.m., Eastern. Register for the Where the Blind Work Webinar for the Zoom details:
https://nfb.org/programs-services/employment/where-the-blind-work-webinars-registration
4) Intro to Mobile Accessibility Testing Tools | TPGi
October 25th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenters: Laurie Pagano, Senior Accessibility Engineer. 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 Senior 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:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-october-25-at-12pm-et-intro-to-mobile-accessibility-testing-tools/
5) Education Technology Accessibility Boutique | NFB
October 25 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Attend this accessibility boutique to discuss the accessibility of several educational technologies used in the classroom. This event is a great opportunity for teachers, administrators, parents of blind students, blind parents, students, and any education professional:
https://nfb.org/programs-services/center-excellence-nonvisual-access/events
6) Discovering Aira and Content Creation | Aira
October 25th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Creating content for the ever-expanding media world is a growing profession. During #NDEAM2022 we want to spotlight how blind and low vision people are working in this space. Whether for income or personal brand, these creators integrate visual interpreting into their processes. We'll also get advice from Aira Agents on how to make the most of visual interpreting when creating your content. Join us Tuesday, October 25th 2022 at 2:00 PM Eastern time. Register at:
https://aira.zoom.us/webinar/register/9116639399059/WN_g9O7k3RaR7mYYT1ODnm0cA
7) JAWS: Getting Help & Accessing Existing Training Materials | Access Ingenuity
October 26th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Get to know the various tools, help menu options, and free training materials that already exist with JAWS. Join Rachel Reeves, Marisa Church, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity to discover ways you can get assistance with concepts, commands, exercises, additional web resources, and more. Learning Outcomes: Various help tools in JAWS, including Keyboard Help, Screen Sensitive Help, etc. Additional help menu options, including the manual, web resources, and free training. Free training web resources such as the Freedom Scientific Training YouTube channel, Free Webinars Training page and the Surf's Up Training website. Meeting ID: 886 5246 9982 | Passcode: 215449 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,88652469982#,,,,*215449# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88652469982?pwd=WnB6L21JbnZwZEpMMEJVM0N2K3VuUT09#success
8) Virtual Career Fair During Blind Equality Achievement Month | National Federation of the Blind
October 26th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Join us Wednesday, October 26, 2022, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Eastern via Zoom for our fall virtual career fair. There is no charge for employers or job seekers. The National Federation of the Blind career fairs are events for blind people seeking jobs to connect with employers, and an opportunity for employers to seek more talent for their teams. The career fairs may be in-person or virtual and provide additional trainings for developing skills such as interviewing tips. Join us for the next career fair. Registration required by October 12, 2022. For more information on the career fair, please contact Dick Davis, Employment Committee Chair, at dickblind@gmail.com 📧️, John Dubay, Employer Liaison, at jdubay@leadsatscale.com, or Rachel Kuntz at rkuntz@saavi.us 📧️. About National Federation of the Blind Employment Initiatives
With opportunities to compete in the workplace in terms of equality, blind people can achieve careers based on their dreams, talents, and abilities. The National Federation of the Blind connects working-age blind people with opportunities and resources to compete in the workplace on terms of equality. For more information, contact Maurice Peret, NOMCT, Coordinator of Career Mentoring & Employment Programs, at mperet@nfb.org or (410) 659-9314 📱️, extension 2350.
Registration for Job Seekers: https://nfb.org/form/career-fair-jobseeker-registration
Registration for Employers: https://nfb.org/form/career-fair-employer-registration
9) Inclusive Cybersecurity Workshop For Middle And High School Students
October 28th 2022 | 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 11PM GMT | The goal is to explore cybersecurity concepts with fun games and puzzles. This is for beginners and no experience needed in computer programming etc. At the end of the workshop, we believe that the kids would like to learn more about cyber and technology opportunities. The workshop is designed to be accessible to all. Agenda: Protecting Information online. Ciphers and Encryption. Online Scavenger Hunt. Quiz. Please enroll here to join:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1Nii4FvGm0Oe3mh76c9j7lCSCLrHYzWr8f4qqcVsAEz8/viewform?ts=633a4fdc&edit_requested=true
10) Fourth Annual Digital Accessibility Legal Summit | Sponsored By TPGi
November 1st 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | TPGi is proud to sponsor the Fourth Annual Digital Accessibility Legal Summit, a virtual conference and we invite you to join us on Tuesday & Wednesday, November 1st & 2nd, from 12:00 Noon to 5:00 PM Eastern Time each day. Attendees and presenters will range from digital accessibility consultants to governmental personnel to lawyers "from both the plaintiff and defendant side of the legal landscape." Come and attend a talk led by Vispero's (TPGi's parent company) Director of Business Development, Laura Boniello Miller, "Emerging legal issues in... Unattended Retail: What could possibly go wrong for customers with disabilities?" from 2:15 PM to 2:45 PM on day 2:
https://www.tpgi.com/tpgi-sponsor-fourth-annual-digital-accessibility-legal-summit/
11) Fourth Annual Digital Accessibility Legal Summit | Sponsored By TPGi
November 2nd 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | TPGi is proud to sponsor the Fourth Annual Digital Accessibility Legal Summit, a virtual conference and we invite you to join us on Tuesday & Wednesday, November 1st & 2nd, from 12:00 Noon to 5:00 PM Eastern Time each day. Attendees and presenters will range from digital accessibility consultants to governmental personnel to lawyers "from both the plaintiff and defendant side of the legal landscape." Come and attend a talk led by Vispero's (TPGi's parent company) Director of Business Development, Laura Boniello Miller, "Emerging legal issues in... Unattended Retail: What could possibly go wrong for customers with disabilities?" from 2:15 PM to 2:45 PM on day 2:
https://www.tpgi.com/tpgi-sponsor-fourth-annual-digital-accessibility-legal-summit/
12) WordPress Accessibility Day
November 2nd 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | WordPress Accessibility Day is a free, 24-hour online event scheduled to start at 15:00 UTC (11:00 US Eastern, 8:00 US Pacific) on Wednesday, November 2nd. The conference will be held virtually so you can present from anywhere worldwide. Here are some other important things to know about speaking at WordPress Accessibility Day: We will provide an accessible speaking experience — the presentation platform will be screen reader-friendly, and we will have captions and sign language interpretation available for speakers as needed. You don't have to have speaking experience! We would love to have first-time speakers present and can support you in presenting as needed. You don't have to be an "expert" or have any special certifications. Anyone with something to share related to accessibility on the web or in WordPress is invited to apply. You can share your journey learning about accessibility or your experience as a person with a disability even if you don't think you've reached the end of that journey yet. Your topic doesn't have to be explicitly WordPress related. While we want some talks specific to WordPress and want to encourage developer-level presentations, not all talks need to be specific to WordPress. General website accessibility talks with broad applications for websites of all types and people of all levels of technical abilities are welcome. If you have an idea for a talk to share your knowledge or experiences about the intersection of WordPress and accessibility, we'd love to hear it!
https://wpaccessibility.day/weekend-plans-apply-to-speak-at-wp-accessibility-day/
13) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 2: Emergent Literacy and LEGO Braille Bricks | APH
November 4th 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Let's discover together the countless possibilities for developing pre-braille skills using LEGO Braille Bricks and other manipulative tools:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
14) Let's Go Shopping 7 | Elegant Insights
November 4th 2022 | We're just a month away! The 2022 holiday edition of Let's Go Shopping is scheduled for Friday, November 4th 2022 and Saturday, November 5th 2022. Several business owners have already sent in their RSVP, with an intent to present attendees with a full slate of fabulous gift ideas, so you can shop 'til you drop right from the comfort of your home. I'll have a few new vendors for you, as well as returning favorites. I'll also have a new hour set aside just to help with overburdened budgets this year, thanks to inflation. Any vendor who joins us for the inflation-fighters hour has pledged to offer at least one item at a deep discount. While of course, every little bit helps, I'll be honest, a measly ten percent discount barely gets my attention. The Let's Go Shopping entrepreneurs have agreed to do better than that, at least for one special item. We'll also have the usual stocking stuffers hour, where vendors with smaller gifts that would make great "secret Santa," "white elephant" gift exchanges, or thoughtful stocking fillers will share their products, all under $20.00. Finally, we'll also have our end of the day happy hour, our casual Q and A session for those who may have missed some info during a vendor presentation. Here's the important part: If you know of anyone who would like to join us, either as a vendor, or as an attendee, please send them our link below. It's the main information page for Let's Go Shopping, and they can subscribe to our groups list for all the relevant details, including the Zoom virtual shopping mall login. They can also send a blank email to: lgs+subscribe@groups.io 📧️. to sign up to our announce list. This is where all the most important info is posted, including special sales, promos, giveaways, and the event schedule and vendor directory. So, please share this message! Get ready to shop for the best gifts from the best variety of small business owners anywhere, and get your gift list checked off early. Ready for a little retail therapy? Let's Go Shopping! Laura Legendary, Founder, Let's Go Shopping Virtual Events:
https://accessibleinsights.info/blog/lets-go-shopping/
15) Let's Go Shopping 7 | Elegant Insights
November 5th 2022 | We're just a month away! The 2022 holiday edition of Let's Go Shopping is scheduled for Friday, November 4th 2022 and Saturday, November 5th 2022. Several business owners have already sent in their RSVP, with an intent to present attendees with a full slate of fabulous gift ideas, so you can shop 'til you drop right from the comfort of your home. I'll have a few new vendors for you, as well as returning favorites. I'll also have a new hour set aside just to help with overburdened budgets this year, thanks to inflation. Any vendor who joins us for the inflation-fighters hour has pledged to offer at least one item at a deep discount. While of course, every little bit helps, I'll be honest, a measly ten percent discount barely gets my attention. The Let's Go Shopping entrepreneurs have agreed to do better than that, at least for one special item. We'll also have the usual stocking stuffers hour, where vendors with smaller gifts that would make great "secret Santa," "white elephant" gift exchanges, or thoughtful stocking fillers will share their products, all under $20.00. Finally, we'll also have our end of the day happy hour, our casual Q and A session for those who may have missed some info during a vendor presentation. Here's the important part: If you know of anyone who would like to join us, either as a vendor, or as an attendee, please send them our link below. It's the main information page for Let's Go Shopping, and they can subscribe to our groups list for all the relevant details, including the Zoom virtual shopping mall login. They can also send a blank email to: lgs+subscribe@groups.io 📧️. to sign up to our announce list. This is where all the most important info is posted, including special sales, promos, giveaways, and the event schedule and vendor directory. So, please share this message! Get ready to shop for the best gifts from the best variety of small business owners anywhere, and get your gift list checked off early. Ready for a little retail therapy? Let's Go Shopping! Laura Legendary, Founder, Let's Go Shopping Virtual Events:
https://accessibleinsights.info/blog/lets-go-shopping/
16) AT Gifts for the Holidays | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Our annual look at gadgets and gizmos that will make your holiday season a successful one. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
17) ATHEN Annual Meeting 2022
November 9th 2022 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Please hold the date for the ATHEN Annual Meeting. All are welcome to attend the ATHEN Annual Meeting which will take place Wednesday, November 9th 2022 from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM Eastern. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information and the Zoom link for joining the meeting. Real-Time Captioning will be provided. If you would like to request any additional disability-related accommodations, please indicate this on the Zoom form or contact me at: athenpresident@gmail.com 📧️. Register in advance for this meeting at:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUkd-qoqzkjHtfDz8f_4AG70f5HKm-EouSi
18) ACB's 2022 Audio Description Awards Gala
November 29 2022 | The American Council of the Blind (ACB) proudly announces the second annual Audio Description Awards Gala on November 29, 2022. The Gala will once again celebrate outstanding achievements in audio description in media and expand awareness of its benefits. In recent years there has been enormous success in expanding audio description for audiences who are blind, low vision, or have other sensory disabilities that create barriers to full inclusion in visual media. "The Audio Description Awards Gala will celebrate the best of the best within the art and science of inclusive audio-described media," said Eric Bridges, ACB's Executive Director. "Together we will work to expand awareness of the transformative value that audio description brings to the lives of people with disabilities:"
https://acb.org/save-the-date-2022-AD-Awards
19) Blind Health Expo | The Accessible Pharmacy
December 2nd 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | The Accessible Pharmacy Blind Health Expo will be the largest virtual expo of healthcare information, products, services, and medication for individuals who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision. Join thousands of other attendees and register now for free!
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/blind-health-expo/
20) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
December 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
21) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 3: Creative Manual Activities for Christmas | APH
December 12th 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Christmas is a great time to create crafts. Let's share amazing and fun tactile ideas adapted to visually impaired children:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
22) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 4: Braille Around the World | APH
January 4th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Let's celebrate Louis Braille's Day and explore different braille codes around the world:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
23) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 5: School Aged Numeracy | APH
February 1st 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Using LEGO Braille Bricks to do math: let's discover some of the many uses of these little bricks to develop numerical and geometry skills, understand symmetry, and much more:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
24) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 6: Daily Living Activities | APH
March 6th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Let's explore daily-living activities using LEGO Braille Bricks and share our best practices, experiences, tips:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
25) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 7: Music | APH
April 5th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Let's discover together how to make music with these famous bricks! Come and share your creative ideas:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
26) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 8: STEM | APH
May 3rd 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Have you ever thought of doing science, computing, or technology with LEGO Braille Bricks? Expert guests will join us for an amazing session:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
27) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 9: Orientation & Mobility | APH
June 7th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | LEGO bricks to build plans, visualize routes, it's not new! But with LEGO Braille Bricks you can also create labels, add letters, words... Then it becomes really great:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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
✍ List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. Fill out this short form to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-buy-sell-trade or learn more on the Top Tech Tidbits website.
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: That Real Blind Tech Show
➜ That Real Blind Tech Show Episode 96: We Got More Resolutions, ACB Style!
It's a fully packed That Real Blind Tech show lair. Join us as we recap this year's ACB Resolutions. We chime in with all of our opinions about this year's resolutions, and as usual some hilarity ensues. You will not want to miss both AirPods issues that take place on this episode. We are adding do not listen to That Real Blind Tech show on the bus as we are not responsible for the stares you will receive when laughing or cackling like a lunatic!
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-96-we-got-more-resolutions-acb-style
Sponsor Since: August 11th 2022
Website: https://blindtechshow.com/ 🌐
Email: ThatRealBlindTechShow@gmail.com 📧️
Social: Facebook Page | Facebook Group | Twitter
Listen: Apple Podcasts | Audible | Google Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube
Hosts: Brian Fischler | Ed Plumacher | Allison Meloy | Jenine Stanley
Goals: We want to educate you on the latest tech for the blindness community. You'll learn what is worth keeping and what you need to return. Our goals are: To inform, inspire and educate our audience. Feature guests and products that bring you value. Continuously improve and deliver the best content.
About: A podcast discussing the good & bad of assistive technology for the low vision & totally blind. No longer focused on just Apple VoiceOver technology. That Real Blind Tech show covers all the fantastic talking tech and gadgets out there for the low vision and blindness community. Common topics include Apple's VoiceOver, JAWS, Microsoft Narrator, NVDA, Amazon Alexa and VoiceView, Google Assistant and Android. Basically, if a device can talk to you, we are going to be talking about it. That Real Blind Tech Show will not only educate you, but it will also make you laugh. Listeners are encouraged to not use treadmills or drink hot coffee while listening to our show, or accidents can and have occurred. Dishes have been broken while listening to That Real Blind Tech Show, and while we are responsible for the laughs, we are in no way responsible for the injuries or bills that pile up. Remember to keep it Real and also don't believe anything you hear on That Real Blind Tech Show.
Home | Episodes | Blog | Contact | Subscribe
Sponsor: Aira
➜ Webinar: Discovering Aira and Content Creation | October 25th 2022 at 2:00 PM ET
Creating content for the ever-expanding media world is a growing profession. During #NDEAM2022 we want to spotlight how blind and low vision people are working in this space. Whether for income or personal brand, these creators integrate visual interpreting into their processes. We'll also get advice from Aira Agents on how to make the most of visual interpreting when creating your content. Join us Tuesday, October 25th 2022 at 2:00pm Eastern time. Register at:
https://aira.zoom.us/webinar/register/9116639399059/WN_g9O7k3RaR7mYYT1ODnm0cA
Sponsor Since: August 4th 2022
Website: https://aira.io/ 🌐
Download the App: Apple App Store | Google Play Store
Plans and Pricing: https://aira.io/pricing/
Phone: NA: +1.800.835.1934 📱️ | AU: +1.800.765.096 📱️ | UK: +0.800.046.5668 📱️ | NZ: +1.800.425.451 📱️
Text Message: NA: +1.858.242.4457 📲 | AU: +61.488.839.767 📲 | UK: +44.149.320.2474 📲
Email: support@aira.io 📧️
Social: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
About: Aira's mission is to remove barriers and make the world more accessible with visual interpreting.
We provide a live, human-to-human professional assistance service, an accommodation or productivity tool, that enhances independence by delivering on-demand, skilled and reliable visual interpreting for just about any task. Using the powerful combination of a camera and the Aira app on someone's device of 'choice', a professionally-trained agent will assist by visually interpreting what is in the camera's view or on screen, from describing to reading, from explaining to navigating - just about anything, safely and securely. Aira supports a growing range of devices including smart and tactile button phones, desktop computers and soon, wearables.
Whether you are involved in the work of business, the work of school or the work of life, Aira enhances everyday efficiency, engagement, and independence. Used by employees and customers of hundreds of organizations including airports, banks, the largest software companies, financial firms, retailers and universities, we invite you to join the community, access the Aira app today and try it for free.
https://aira.io/download-and-try-it/
Step One: Subscribe and Download. Pick the plan that lets you explore on your terms and on your time, sign up in a few minutes, and download the Aira app to your smartphone. Plans shown are for the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Add or cancel at any time.
Step Two: Connect with an Aira Agent. On the first call, connect with one of our certified, specially-trained Agents and learn how everything works.
Step Three: Real-time Assistance. At the touch of a button, Aira delivers instant access to visual information, when and where you want it.
Sponsor: Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
➜ Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore: Touch Tomorrow in Today's Products
Serving blind people since 1999, we're a family-owned, forward-thinking company offering both tried-and-true and exciting new products for blind and low vision consumers. We design and carry self-voicing educational software, Braille supplies, talking gadgets, adapted household items, tactile card and board games, audible toys and gift ideas. Passionate about innovation, we've also created dozens of products from scratch when a suitable solution did not exist. Shop online at http://www.braillebookstore.com/ and enjoy fast, free shipping.
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: http://www.braillebookstore.com/ 🌐
Phone (Toll Free): (800) 987-1231 📱️
Fax (Toll Free): (800) 985-1231 ░
Email: Sales@BrailleBookstore.com 📧️
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time.
About: Welcome to Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore. We have been supplying products to blind people and their families since 1999. We offer thousands of Braille books, toys, games, kitchen aids, and talking products. We have unbeatable prices, fast, free shipping, and great customer service! We have tons of Braille books and cool products to choose from; so grab a cup of coffee, relax, and we'll give you a quick tour:
Products:
➜ Timekeeping
➜ Housewares
➜ On The Go
➜ Low Vision Products
➜ Toys and Games
➜ Gift Shop
➜ Braille Workshop
➜ Braille Bookstore
➜ Greeting Cards
➜ Copy Center
➜ Computer Lab
➜ Popular Products
➜ New Products
If you need some fresh ideas or have questions, you can also check out our Shopping Guides.
Sponsor: Fable
➜ Free and Accessible Training for the Tech Sector
Fable Pathways helps you gain the skills that you need to work in the tech sector with a free, accessible, and on-demand program. Learn from industry leaders with disabilities to take your career to the next level, like Kelly Ford, Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, who introduces GitHub and VS Code using a screen reader. Spend less time and energy trying to access courses with your assistive technology and focus on the content that matters to you, with Fable Pathways' accessible platform. Sign up today!
https://www.fablepathways.com/
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: https://fablepathways.com/ 🌐
Email: community@makeitfable.com 📧️
Phone: (888) 212-3532 📱️ Extension 810
About: Just like curb cuts help everyone get on and off sidewalks, designing digital products with accessibility in mind helps make the internet more accessible for everyone. Fable is an accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities. Fable connects people with disabilities to accessibility managers, user researchers, designers, and developers to build incredible and accessible user experiences.
Opportunities:
➜ Fable Pathways: Fable Pathways is a free skill development program for people with disabilities interested in working in the tech sector. Sign up to take your career to the next level. Courses include "Getting started in web development" taught by Kelly Ford, a screen reader user, and Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, and "Becoming a manager" taught by Fable's Head of Accessibility Innovation, Kate Kalcevich. Instructors are subject matter experts in their fields and have lived experience with disability. Pathways courses are free, self-paced and assistive-technology-friendly. Sign up now at https://fablepathways.com/.
➜ Fable's Community of Accessibility Testers: Work from home to contribute to real changes in digital accessibility and make the internet a more accessible place for everyone. Ever leave a website because it was too hard to navigate? Because it was missing button labels? Because it didn't respond to voice commands? Us too. Our community of testers who use assistive technologies work from home and contribute to real changes in digital accessibility with recognizable brands. Earn money to share your feedback on websites and apps of your favorite brands and work with companies that care. No experience required and no resume required. Fable is looking for assistive technology users in the USA and Canada to work the hours that they want, from the comfort of their own homes. Learn more at https://fablepathways.com/community/.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ Dolphin Friends Program
If you work for a non-profit, charity or society that provides services to people with visual impairments, we invite you to take part in our Dolphin Friends Program. Dolphin will outfit your center with assistive technology solutions that can benefit your clients who need to remain independent, are trying to sharpen their technology skills for employment and more. Learn more about becoming a Dolphin Friend:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/join-dolphin-friends
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Sponsor: Clusiv
➜ Looking For Blind Job-Seekers Wanting To Advance Their Salaries, Careers And Digital Accessibility For The Blind
Are you interested in learning new tech skills and working remotely while earning a competitive salary? At Clusiv.io we have created the world's first digitally accessible e-Learning platform built by the blind, and built for the blind. Visit the link provided and request Clusiv through your Vocational Rehab counselor for lifetime access to our e-Learning platform with courses such as Business Applications, JAWS, and more:
https://clusiv.io/
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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 from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Control the climate of your home independently! The VIP 3000 is a universal heating — cooling talking thermostat This accessible digital thermostat is specifically designed to offer audio playback of indoor temperature, temperature settings and programming instructions so blind and visually impaired users can independently & precisely manage their indoor comfort. Don't over pay. Read more at:
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 every day 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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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 Next Generation in Accessibility
Need to quickly access a distant computer with minimal fuss? Need to quickly convert image documents into readable text? Today's students and working professionals demand more of their technology. Employers expect more of their workforce. Pneuma Solutions is bridging the gap using the best in machine learning to connect you to your environment when you need it, how you need it. Give us a try, and experience accessibility on a whole new level:
https://pneumasolutions.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
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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Combine Learning And Gaming For A Fun Braille Adventure With Polly!
APH and Thinkerbell Labs are excited to introduce Polly, complete with customizable UEB lessons, songs, games, and stories! Join our waiting list to know when Polly is available:
https://www.aph.org/polly-wait-list/
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
➜ Fall Specials Means Take Advantage Of Our "Fall-Ing" Prices On These Items
Heavy-duty cowhide 19 inch rucksack style backpack; 50 percent off; now only $50.00. How low can you go with our 7 pocket 17.5 by 7 by 5 inch RFID and CCW leather waist pack with a built-in cane holder (that's what the holster is really for) $30.00 while supplies last. Valuables protection with our cowhide leather chest pack with flip up phone holder for use with AIRA; big ten inch square by 4 inch compartment can easily hold a day's essentials, reduced from $70 to $50; Our 60 inch titanium telescopic locking canes are flying out of here so fast that it feels like their winter sojourn is already happening; $80 including shipping; And, if you want to hibernate also, the most comfortable wired earbuds for sleepy listening you will ever find, from JVC $20.00. For these specials, call GuideLights and Gadgets: Barry at (617) 969-7500 📱️, or Kae at (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, affordable, 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
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 📱️.
Your Name Here
0 of 18 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are currently 0 of 18 packages available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, October 13, 2022 - Volume 880
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.
Subscribers: 7,506 Opt-In Subscribers were sent this issue via email. 145 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: No Sponsorship Packages Currently Available. Please Join Our Waiting List Today! This Issue Made Possible By 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., Double Tap TV, Clusiv, Dolphin Computer Access, Fable, Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore, Aira and That Real Blind Tech Show.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Tidbit for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Reader Review: The Talking Cooking Thermometer (8.0% of all clicks.)
Courtesy of Donna Jodhan, Top Tech Tidbits Reader:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/124.html
B.) We Spoke With the Last Person Standing in the Floppy Disk Business (3.2% of all clicks.)
Turns out the obsolete floppy is way more in demand than you'd think:
https://eyeondesign.aiga.org/we-spoke-with-the-last-person-standing-in-the-floppy-disk-business/
C.) Remote Incident Manager Versus The Other Players — Part 2: RIM vs. TeamViewer (3.2% of all clicks.)
I, Aaron Di Blasi, Publisher for Top Tech Tidbits, and former remote computer technician would like to provide some information on this topic that is directly related to an experience that I had recently in serving a blind client. We were attempting to connect via TeamViewer because that was the client's choice of software. Perhaps because it is free and perhaps because we had successfully used it to connect in previous sessions. Not so this time. The client could not use NVDA, Dolphin QS with Supernova or Windows Narrator to access the TeamViewer application. When the client reached out to these screen reader support groups she was informed by both Dolphin and NVDA that, "the current version of TeamViewer has broken accessibility in their user interface for all screen readers." This incident took place on September 29th 2022. With that, we give you the following article:
https://pneumasolutions.com/remote-incident-manager-vs-the-other-players-part-2-rim-vs-teamviewer/
D.) Software Developer Invents Assistant Glasses For Blind And Partially Sighted Users (3.1% of all clicks.)
A 25-year-old Turkish Software developer has invented special glasses, named "assistant glasses," that help visually impaired people to "recognize" people or "identify" objects. Graduated from the U.S. Brown College, Melis Gokalp, who is working in an international digital health systems company, wrote the software for the assistant glasses between 2019 and 2021. Here's how they work:
https://coolblindtech.com/software-developer-invents-assistant-glasses-for-blind-and-partially-sighted-users/
E.) Accessibility Resources From Amazon Specifically For Top Tech Tidbits Readers (2.9% of all clicks.)
Yes. You read that right. Amazon has reached out to Top Tech Tidbits and we have agreed to provide readers with ongoing accessibility updates provided directly by their Accessibility Department. Here are some interesting updates to kick off this new partnership:
A.) Amazon has just released a series of new videos, featuring people with disabilities (including an Amazon employee) using many of their accessibility features across Alexa, Fire TV, Kindle, and more. An attempt to help all of their customers (many of which are Tidbits readers) to learn how these features can help them be more connected, entertained, and independent:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLaQihAe6OdwIj3TkzYEKPN0Nycry8-Veo
B.) Additionally, Amazon has redesigned the accessibility portion of their site to make it easier to explore:
https://www.amazon.com/accessibility
C.) Amazon continues to build new features and offerings with all customers in mind, including Tap to Alexa on Fire tablets:
https://www.aboutamazon.com/news/devices/alexa-accessibility-features-extend-to-fire-tablets
D.) And Audio Streaming for Hearing Aids on Fire TV:
https://amazonfiretv.blog/fire-tv-launches-hearing-aid-pairing-423d56625683
E.) This video is Amazon's access flagship favorite:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gJ4vkkGvUbU&list=PLaQihAe6OdwIj3TkzYEKPN0Nycry8-Veo&index=1
F.) Finally, you can also visit the Amazon Accessibility blog at:
https://www.aboutamazon.com/news/devices/how-amazon-is-building-a-more-accessible-future
2) Top Tech Tidbits Reaches 7,500 Weekly Subscribers | Aaron Di Blasi | Publisher
Well it would seem that more has grown over the last year than just the sections within this newsletter. Insert bright smile here. I am incredibly happy to report that Top Tech Tidbits continues to experience positive subscriber growth, week over week, topping out this week at over 7,500 subscribers. I honestly don't know what else to say, except, thank you. Thank you to all the readers that trade feedback with me on a daily basis. Thank you to all of the content contributors that work with us each week as we sift through vast amounts of news. Thank you to all of the Sponsors that work with us to reach Tidbits readers in the most helpful and non-intrusive manner possible. And sincerest thanks to the Tidbits Editorial Team, who take their time each day to sift, sort, rate and submit. Tidbits would not be possible without the efforts of each and every one of you. I, am, frankly, amazed at the community that has formed around Top Tech Tidbits. It is a community that I am truly proud to be part of, and to serve. And here is where I would generally ask you for your support, in the form of a donation or a sponsorship, but thanks to the efforts of all of the aforementioned parties, the publication does not currently require it. So I'm going to close this by asking you to hold on to your money. For now. And to simply celebrate with us by continuing to read and share Top Tech Tidbits each week. We may however be making some future announcements in which your assistance might be incredibly useful. Until then, we celebrate:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/about.html
3) No Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Packages Currently Available
If you would like to support Top Tech Tidbits as a Sponsor in the future please add your name to our waiting list today by sending an email to our Publisher at the address below. We will add your name to the list, let you know what position you currently hold within it, and then notify you the moment a package becomes available. There are currently two future Sponsors on the waiting list:
publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️
4) Premium Subscriber Updates
Premium Subscribers are entitled to all back issues, anytime they sign up. Premium Subscribers will receive their 3rd Volume of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits for October, November and December 2022 on Monday, January 2nd 2023. If you would like to receive a perfectly formatted and searchable Word Document with each of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits of the last 3 months listed neatly within it, please consider joining us today for just $1 a month:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/premium-subscribers.html
5) Top Tech Tidbits Weekly Scramble
The Top Tech Tidbits Weekly Scramble presents a single word or phrase related to adaptive or assistive technology whose letters have been scrambled. Can you put the letters back in the proper order to determine this week's word? Check your work next week where we'll provide the answer along with a new challenge.
LAST WEEK'S SCRAMBLE: IIMCGNAFTAINO = MAGNIFICATION
NEW SCRAMBLE: CSEC SE SFOEAA = (This phrase is 3 words with two spaces.)
6) Fusion Power Tip: How To Capture A Magnified Area
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/125.html
7) How To Use SuperNova's Connect & View to Customize Your View of an Interactive Whiteboard
Courtesy of Dolphin Computer Access:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/126.html
8) Eyes on Success Podcast Tops One Million Downloads Since Its Inception | Please Join Us In Congratulating Them
Please join all of us here at Top Tech Tidbits in congratulating Peter and Nancy Torpey on this incredible milestone. I think I speak for many Tidbits readers when I say that we sincerely appreciate the wonderful work that you both do each week. If you are one of these readers, and you would like to see the show continue, please consider joining other listeners who have made a small donation to the show using the link below. As a reader and sponsor supported publication ourselves, we understand the importance of keeping a publication, or podcast, funded. Donation amount is your choice. No amount is too small. Each contribution helps to defray the cost of web hosting, upgrades, software and equipment. We just made our donation. Please consider making yours today:
https://bit.ly/eos-donation
9) Lego Braille Bricks Live Sessions From APH
We're excited to share that our friends at the LEGO Foundation are hosting nine 45-minute LEGO Braille Bricks live sessions! Anyone can join: whether you are following the current online course, have attended a previous webinar, or are just curious. These monthly interactive sessions are all independent and have specific topics and special international guests. This will be a great opportunity to speak live, share experiences/knowledge, and challenge each other to go further with LEGO Braille Bricks! Register today for each session at:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
10) NV Access In-Process For October 6th 2022
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-6th-october-2022/
11) What Is The Google Guided Frame Feature? | Gemma Ryles | Trusted Reviews
The new Guided Frame feature is an accessibility feature that aims to help visually-impaired and blind users take selfies with more ease. Guided Frame comes in the form of a voice and it helps guide users, helping them understand where they should hold their phone if they want to take a picture with the forward-facing camera. If a user opens the camera and holds it in front of their face, the voice will advise them to lift the camera up or down so they can get the best angle:
https://www.trustedreviews.com/explainer/what-is-the-google-guided-frame-feature-4272841
12) Google's Guided Frame Gives Visually Impaired Folks A Voice-Over For Selfies | Haje Jan Kamps | TechCrunch
Love 'em or hate 'em, selfies are an important aspect of photography; they help us connect with loved ones, and people spend an extraordinary amount of time thinking about how to look good in photos taken of yourself. (I should know; I wrote a whole damn book about 'em in a past life). People who are blind and vision impaired still use phones, of course — there's a ton of audio guidance available on modern smartphones — but taking photographs is much harder. Well, it was, at any rate, until Google introduced its Guided Frame, which sparked into life at one of Google's hackathon events:
https://techcrunch.com/2022/10/06/google-guided-frame/
13) Guided Frame on Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro | Audio Description | YouTube
Take a deeper look into Guided Frame — the newest accessibility feature helping blind and low-vision users take better selfies on Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x0I9CF6HZ6o
14) Directly Editing Text Under Braille Screen Input Without Moving The Rotor | Applevis
The following guide has been inspired by this episode of the Apfel-Fleger Podcast, a podcast in German for blind users of Apple products. All credit goes to Jurgen Fleger and his friend for discovering and presenting this little trick:
https://www.applevis.com/guides/directly-editing-text-under-braille-screen-input-without-moving-rotor
15) GuideConnect 1.23 Now Available
This update includes improvements for proof-reading documents, attaching files to emails, copying text from websites and more:
https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/news?id=525
16) Aira Is Looking For Content Creators For A Webinar | To Be Held On Tuesday, October 25th 2022 at 2:00 PM ET
Hello Explorers. Are you a social media content creator who is blind or has low vision? Do you work with visual formats as part of your job? Do you utilize Aira as part of your workflow? We want to hear from you. We're holding a webinar on Tuesday, October 25th 2022 at 2:00 PM Eastern time to "Discover Aira and Content Creation." If you'd like to be a panelist to discuss using tools like Canva, platforms like Instagram and YouTube, or creating other visual materials, send us an email at:
airacast@aira.io 📧️
17) Everything Google Announced at the "Made by Google" Pixel Event 2022
The new Pixel 7 phones, the Pixel Watch, and a closer look at the Pixel Tablet were the highlights of Google's 2022 hardware event:
https://www.makeuseof.com/everything-google-announced-at-the-pixel-event/
18) This App Uses Augmented Reality And A Camera To Guide Blind Travelers
A pair of young French engineering students are working to tackle the problem of navigating big cities by developing a augmented reality (AR) navigation app that identifies the most practical route for them and uses spatial sound, also known as 3D sound to guide them in the right direction:
https://coolblindtech.com/this-app-uses-augmented-reality-and-a-camera-to-guide-blind-travellers/
19) Google Pixel 7 Camera App Adds 'Cinematic Blur' And Accessibility Features
They also offer sharper zoom photos, new macro functions and improved skin tones:
https://www.engadget.com/pixel-7-pixel-7-pro-camera-features-150718081.html
20) Three Features Make iOS 16 Great
This op ed is not accessibility specific, but offers some useful insights:
https://500ish.com/three-features-make-ios-16-great-93b509a9cea7
21) NVDA 2022.4 Beta1 Available For Testing
Beta1 of NVDA 2022.4 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-2022-4beta1/
22) Parcel Package Tracking App Updated With Siri Integration
Parcel is one of the most popular package tracking apps for iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch. This week, the app received a major update that added support for Siri commands, so users can now ask Apple's virtual assistant about the status of their packages:
https://9to5mac.com/2022/10/07/parcel-app-updated-with-siri-commands/
23) Webinar Recordings | Sight and Sound Technology UK | Envision Products and Excel Basics | YouTube
Envision Products: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N9HxGsk9EXY
Excel Basics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PizNW3r4r_k
24) New Envision Products Discussion Group
Page on Groups.io: https://groups.io/g/envision
Website: https://www.letsenvision.com/
Subscribe: envision+subscribe@groups.io 📧️
25) Always On The Lookout
Lookout is an app for Android devices that uses Google's Artificial Intelligence toolkit to assist individuals, especially those who are blind or visually impaired. While the app isn't new to the scene, there are two new features for Lookout app users to explore:
https://www.eastersealstech.com/2022/10/05/always-on-the-lookout/
26) How To Use Summarize In MacOS To Shorten Documents
This article describes how to use Summarize from within MacOS for long documents. It does not work on PDF files:
https://appleinsider.com/inside/macos/tips/how-to-use-summarize-in-macos-to-shorten-documents?utm_medium=rss
27) The Best Touchscreen Gloves | Wired
We braved the cold to answer the modern dilemma: Can you keep your hands warm and use a smartphone at the same time?
https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-touchscreen-gloves/
28) Windows 11 Now Offers Automatic Phishing Protection
The latest September 2022 version 22H2 update for Windows 11 includes a new feature designed to keep you even safer than before from phishing attacks: the practice of bad actors attempting to get you to reveal your usernames and passwords so they can log in rather than break in to your accounts:
https://www.wired.com/story/windows-11-automatic-phishing-protection/
29) Microsoft Surface Event: Here's Everything That Was Announced
The Microsoft Surface 2022 event has concluded. Here's a roundup of all the unveilings:
https://www.windowscentral.com/hardware/laptops/microsoft-surface-event-heres-everything-that-was-announced
30) Introducing New Surface Devices That Take The Windows PC Into The Next Era Of Computing
Microsoft announced a new Surface Pro, Surface Laptop, adaptive accessories, as well as a presenter and audio dock for their Surface branded devices:
https://blogs.windows.com/devices/2022/10/12/introducing-new-surface-devices-that-take-the-windows-pc-into-the-next-era-of-computing/
31) Everything New For Microsoft Edge From Ignite 2022
Microsoft announced new security options, accessibility tools, and productivity features for Edge this week:
https://www.windowscentral.com/software-apps/browsing/everything-new-for-microsoft-edge-from-ignite-2022
32) New Tools From Microsoft 365, Edge, And Bing Bridge The Gap Between Productivity And Creativity
Along with the hardware announcement, Microsoft announced some new software experiences in Office and on their Edge browser:
A: Article:
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2022/10/12/new-tools-from-microsoft-365-edge-and-bing-bridge-the-gap-between-productivity-and-creativity/
B: And here is how you can sign up to be on the waitlist for the new Microsoft Designer tool:
https://designer.microsoft.com/
➜ Access Information News
✍ Submit your Access Information news item for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Roku To Launch New Smart Home Products At Walmart
Roku is partnering with Wizz to create a new smart home platform. The Wizz app and Roku are generally accessible, so we're hoping this new service will be as well:
https://newsroom.roku.com/news/2022/10/roku-to-launch-new-smart-home-products-at-walmart/nejuvvx8-1665506909
2) Advocating For Work With Judy Heumann | Fable Pathways Newest Free Course
Drawing from decades of committed action for the equitable treatment of people with disabilities worldwide, Heumann's course, Advocating for work, shares her perspective on self-advocacy in the workplace and beyond, covering topics like nurturing a professional network, interviewing, and how to collaborate for change. Participants will learn how to increase their confidence, along with the skills they need to enter or advance in the technology workforce:
https://makeitfable.com/pathways/advocating-for-work/
3) Your Questions Answered — What Jobseekers With Disabilities Need To Know To Enter Today's Job Market | Neil Barnett | Microsoft Director of Accessibility with Susan Lang, Founding CEO of Lime Connect
October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), a time to celebrate the contributions of America's workers with disabilities, past and present, while working to achieve parity with this year's theme "Disability: Part of the Equity Equation:"
https://blogs.microsoft.com/accessibility/your-questions-answered-what-jobseekers-with-disabilities-need-to-know-to-enter-todays-job-market/
4) New Bose, Lexie Hearing Aid To Enter The Over-The-Counter Market
The B2 is an updated version of Lexie Hearing's B1 aid, which also uses Bose technology. Both will be available at stores throughout the country next week:
https://www.cnet.com/health/medical/new-bose-lexi-hearing-device-entering-over-the-counter-hearing-aid-market/#ftag=CAD590a51e
5) Accessibility In The Workforce: A Blind Person's Perspective
It's National Disability Employee Awareness Month (NDEAM), a month to celebrate those with disabilities in the workplace while showing support, and inclusive policies and best practices. In 1945, Congress designated the first week of October as a time to acknowledge and honor the contributions of disabled people in the workplace. In 1988, that week was extended to a month, and October became NDEAM:
https://blog.usablenet.com/accessibility-in-the-workforce-a-blind-persons-perspective
6) The Magic Of Touch: How Deafblind People Taught Us To 'See' The World Differently During COVID
Issy McGrath has type 2 Usher syndrome. Completely blind and severely deaf, she has a passion for music and plays the flute. Using a combination of touch, smell and keen imagination — her "inner eye" — Issy says she frequently senses things that are beyond the grasp of sight: the "almost solid" nature of the winter air in the morning, or the enchanting atmosphere of a frozen landscape:
https://theconversation.com/the-magic-of-touch-how-deafblind-people-taught-us-to-see-the-world-differently-during-covid-191698
7) Driving Blind: This Headset Lets You Drive in a Car Without Windows
The Honeywell 360 Display combines camera and sensor data to create a "360 view dome" inside a vehicle, letting drivers see the road even if the windows are blacked out:
https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/honeywell-360-display-headset-lets-you-drive-in-a-car-without-windows/
8) Oral Argument for Orozco v. Merrick in Washington, DC | October 18th 2022
If you are in the DC/Maryland/Virginia area, please consider attending the Orozco v. Merrick oral argument in-person on October 18th 2022. NFB member Joe Orozco is appealing a federal district court decision finding that blind federal employees do not have a private right of action to directly enforce Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act against their federal employers. The impact of the decision could extend to both members of the public seeking to access federal electronic information technology as well as disabled federal employees using technology at work. For those who cannot attend in-person, audio of the oral argument will be live-streamed on the court's YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/USCourtsCADC
9) Lexmark Launches Two Accessibility Solutions For Printers And MFPs To Assist Visually Impaired Users
Lexmark International, Inc. has unveiled two features designed to provide people with visual impairments easier access to its range of printers and multi-function printers (MFPs):
https://www.albawaba.com/business/pr/lexmark-mfp-printers-442608
10) Montgomery County Receives $22.6 Million in Digital Equity Grants to Expand Computers and Broadband Services to Low-Income and Senior Residents
Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich today announced that Montgomery Connects, the County's digital equity program, has received more than $22.6 million in Federal and State grants to expand access to computers, broadband service and service discounts, and technology training for low-income residents and seniors:
https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=42233
11) TV Licence Fee: Some Britons Can Get A Discount On Their Bill | Are You Eligible?
To watch live television in the UK, people need to pay a fee of £159, however some groups are able to get a discount or for free:
https://www.express.co.uk/finance/personalfinance/1678073/tv-licence-fee-discount-bbc
12) Accessibility + AI: Enabling Content for the Visually Impaired
Researchers are experimenting with the use of AI to help develop appropriate alt-text descriptions. Often the alt-text needs to be developed from the context of the purpose of the whole web page and not the isolated image to which it will be attached:
https://formtek.com/blog/accessibility-ai-enabling-content-for-the-visually-impaired/
13) Thoughts On The Proposed Websites And Software Applications Accessibility Act | Aaron Gustafson
Last month, Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) and Representative John P. Sarbanes (D-Md.) introduced the Websites and Software Applications Accessibility Act — I'm gonna call it the WS3A for short — simultaneously in the U.S. Senate (S. 4998) and House of Representatives (H.R. 9021) to explicitly bring websites — and other forms of digital media that didn't exist when the ADA was signed into law — into the purview of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). I am definitely in favor of this effort as it removes the ambiguity that currently exists in U.S. law as to whether websites are governed by the ADA. The WS3A is a reasonable framework, but there is still a lot of work to be done when it (hopefully) passes:
https://www.aaron-gustafson.com/notebook/thoughts-on-the-proposed-websites-and-software-applications-accessibility-act/
14) See How Apple Accessibility Transforms Lives, Working Hand-In-Hand With HomeKit | Video
For severely disabled people, it's no exaggeration to say that Apple Accessibility transforms lives — but it can be difficult to appreciate the impact that even minor-sounding changes can make until you see it for yourself:
https://9to5mac.com/2022/10/06/apple-accessibility-transforms-lives/
15) Focus on AFB: Fall 2022 Newsletter | American Foundation for the Blind
Topics include: Blind Leaders Development Program's New Cohort is the Largest Yet | Donor Corner: Lifelong Blindness Advocate and Her Husband Leave a Lasting Legacy | Mind The Gap: AFB Report Provides Insights on Educational Challenges | Arielle Silverman: What Does the World Look Like to You? | AFB NEWS: Help AFB Put Every Dollar into Our Programs:
https://www.afb.org/newsletters/focus-afb-newsletter/focus-fall2022
16) In Its Latest Partnership With Disabled Community, Autonomous Driving Startup Waymo Announces New Waymo Accessibility Network
In a blog post published on October 6th 2022, autonomous driving startup Waymo announced the formation of what the Mountain View-based company calls the Waymo Accessibility Network. Waymo notes in the announcement the initiative is meant to "formalize and scale our longstanding collaboration with disability advocates, [and will] expand inclusion of their crucial voices and valuable perspectives as we work together to shape the future of transportation:"
https://www.forbes.com/sites/stevenaquino/2022/10/06/in-its-latest-partnership-with-disabled-people-autonomous-driving-startup-waymo-announces-new-waymo-accessibility-network/?sh=7d9ec78b38d8
17) No Longer Out of Sight, Effort Gets Underway to Combat Treatable Blindness
Africa and Latin America have the highest rates in the world of treatable sight problems, but a Spanish NGO is finding innovative ways to reverse this situation:
https://www.voanews.com/a/no-longer-out-of-sight-effort-gets-under-way-to-combat-treatable-blindness/6777047.html
18) Eye-Opening Discovery About Adult Brain's Ability To Recover Vision
A UCI team demonstrates the adult brain has the potential to partially recover from inherited blindness:
https://news.uci.edu/2022/10/05/eye-opening-discovery-about-adult-brains-ability-to-recover-vision/
19) Innovative Technology For The Hearing Impaired Makes Use Of Visual Cues
New visually-guided hearing aid uses eye gaze to focus amplification of sound signals from the direction of the user's attention:
https://europe.ophthalmologytimes.com/view/innovative-technology-for-the-hearing-impaired-makes-use-of-visual-cues
20) The Rise of Accessible Gaming
The online gaming community is one of vibrance and diversity. It is also enormous: More than 216 million people in the U.S. play video games regularly, and the booming industry is expected to grow to $321 billion by 2026 globally. Of the Americans that play video games, 46 million have one or more disabilities. For all consumers to enjoy their favorite video games, the games must be accessible to them. This need creates a large demand for accessibility in the gaming space:
https://www.3playmedia.com/blog/the-rise-of-accessible-gaming/
21) Experimental Gene Therapy Helps Restore Night Vision in People With Form of Childhood Blindness
Adults with a genetic form of childhood-onset blindness experienced striking recoveries of night vision within days of receiving an experimental gene therapy, according to researchers at the Scheie Eye Institute in the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania:
https://www.technologynetworks.com/tn/news/experimental-gene-therapy-helps-restore-night-vision-in-people-with-form-of-childhood-blindness-366449
➜ Surveys
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related survey for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-survey or locate "Survey Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Surveys: From APH
Closes: Ongoing Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
2) Survey: Aira Seeks Android Users for Closed Beta Testing
Closes: October 13th 2022Aira is excited to announce that we are working on improving our mobile app across both iOS and Android devices. As our apps evolve, we have invested in technology that allows us to write features once and have them available on multiple device types, which means for you, the pace of updates and new functionality will be more consistent. We are seeking individuals, particularly Android users, who are interested in participating in a closed Beta. We need people who are excited to try new technologies, enjoy giving feedback, and are not discouraged when things aren't working as expected. The closed beta will begin some time in the next month. To apply for consideration, please complete the form at:
https://bit.ly/airabeta
3) Survey: Alt Text | Karlen Communications
Closes: October 13th 2022I've launched a new iteration of the Alt Text Survey that I conducted last year. The 2022 version is now here: https://forms.office.com/r/QBLTwR5kg3
4) Survey: Paid Google Study For Those With Cognitive Accessibility Needs And / Or Those Who Aare Deaf / Hard of Hearing And Use A Tablet
Closes: October 31st 2022Google is undertaking a paid study for those with cognitive accessibility needs or those who are deaf / hard of hearing and use a tablet. Here is what is needed: User Type: Users with Cognitive Accessibility needs and users who are Deaf/Hard of Hearing. Product: Android. Length of Study: 90 minutes and short 3 day diary. Details: All users must use a Tablet Device (e.g. iPad, Samsung Galaxy Tab, Microsoft Surface, Lenovo Tab etc.) Open to Tablet users who also use Stylus, Tablet Keyboards, Smart Watches or Smart Displays. User will have a short 3-day follow up diary assignment. Thank-You Gifts: $100 USD / $125 CAD for 90 mins plus $45 USD / $60 CAD for short 3 day diary. Location: USA / Canada Remote. Link to participate with eligibility form:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfRSkeyvWv-EONUIW0b8i8A0V1CenF-lvmkoCve3l1QMgaeiQ/viewform?resourcekey=0-XdiLbrvGRjNN1l91oHSlIw
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Podcast Episode for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-podcast-episode or locate "Podcast Episode Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) That Real Blind Tech Show | Episode 100 | The Clip Show Part 5 The Finale
October 7th 2022 | Join us for our final listen back to our first 100 episodes. Disclaimer, you may not want to listen to this episode on public transportation as we are not responsible for the strange looks you get while you are laughing out loud. If you have never listened to That Real Blind Tech show, and you like a little humor with your blind tech, then this is our must listen to episode:
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-100-the-clip-show-part-5-the-finale
2) Mosen at Large Episode 201: Casting A Secret Ballot Shouldn't Be This Hard, Voiceover Quiet When On Phone Calls, And Is It Time Aira Ditched Its Free Calls
3) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 96: The Made By Google Event And Guest Appearance Of The Tech-Freedom Team
October 8th 2022 | in this episode, we have the developers of Tech Freedom. We also show you CSR quick browsing and content filter. We then have Milosz Nowicki joining us for his android journey:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jrpfuPchZMU
4) Eyes on Success Episode 2241: Getting Your Business to the Next Level
October 12th 2022 | The New Venture Competition awards winning participants cash prizes to help get their new or growing business to the next level. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with long-time organizer Colleen Wunderlich as well as with the 2021 winners of the competition, Bruno D'Avanzo and Jennifer Rhodes, about their experiences with the competition:
http://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show_notes_2241.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Webinar, Training Course or Event for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-event or locate "Webinar / Training Course Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) The Many Faces of BARD | Library of Congress | Spanish Language Only
October 13th 2022 | 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 11PM GMT | The Many Faces of BARD program for October will be presented in Spanish and led by Juana Gonzalez and Yanci Munoz, who are reader advisors at the Braille Institute in Los Angeles, CA. The program will begin at 7:00 p.m. eastern time on Thursday, October 13, and will last for one hour. The session will begin with a brief presentation. The remainder of the time will be spent answering questions related to the presentation or to BARD usage in general. Since the entire program will be presented in Spanish, we request that questions also be posed in Spanish. The session can be joined by going to the link below on a computer or calling +1 (669) 254-5252 📱️. Full Zoom invitation information follows. To call into a session, participants must use the telephone numbers provided here for Zoom.gov rather than the regular Zoom telephone numbers. Join Zoom Meeting: One tap mobile: US: +16692545252,,1611161911# or +16468287666,,1611161911# | Meeting ID: 161 116 1911 | Passcode: 489758 | Join by Telephone: For higher quality, dial a number based on your current location. Dial: US: +1 669 254 5252 or +1 646 828 7666 or +1 669 216 1590 or +1 551 285 1373 | Meeting ID: 161 116 1911 | International numbers: Join from an H.323/SIP room system. | H.323: | 161.199.138.10 (US West) 161.199.136.10 (US East) | Meeting ID: 161 116 1911 | Passcode: 489758 | SIP: 1611161911@sip.zoomgov.com 📧️ | Passcode: 489758 | Upon connecting, participants will be placed in a virtual waiting room until the program begins. When they enter the room, they will be on mute, and they should remain on mute unless the host calls on them to speak. At that time, they may unmute by using Alt-A from a computer or star 6 if dialing in by phone. All Many Faces of BARD programs are recorded. If participants do not want to be on the recording, they should refrain from speaking. Meeting URL:
https://loc.zoomgov.com/j/1611161911?pwd=bVh5ejFsWFBlL21KY0VqaHlRMUlSQT09
2) Women's Empowerment Conference | NFB DC
October 14th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | The NFB of DC proudly presents our 7th Annual Blind Women's Empowerment Conference via zoom. There will be a panel of talented women speaking to you from their hearts to your hearts. Get ready to be dazzled, rejuvenated, and inspired to live the life you want. This is a free event and all Women Are Welcome! No Registration Necessary! The Zoom information will be sent out on the week of the conference. For more information contact Libra Robinson at (202) 427-3600 📱️ or email leelibra342@gmail.com 📧️
3) Believe You Can 3rd Annual Talent Show | Dancing Dots
October 15th 2022 | 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12PM GMT, 10/16 | Dancing Dots Presents: Believe You Can! Hosted by the Keystone Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania. In Honor of Blind Equality Achievement Month #BEAM, we bring you a night of amazing talent! This is our 3rd Annual Talent Show and we are excited for another wonderful year! Come see and hear wonderful performers within the blind and visually impaired communities from all over the world. Performances include singers, dancers, comedians, musicians, and more! Tickets: $10 for Individual, and $25 for a Watch Party. Questions? Contact: BelieveYouCanShow@gmail.com 📧️. Purchase Tickets or Make A Donation at:
http://believeyoucan.live/tickets/
4) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 1: Experience Tool | APH
October 18th 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | How to observe children with visual impairment at play? How can we assess that an activity is joyful, physically engaging, socially interactive, iterative, and meaningful? Let's discover the special experience tool for visually impaired students:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
5) A Deeper Dive Into The Amigo 8 Portable Video Magnifier | Free Training Webinar | From Enhanced Vision
October 19th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Vispero Presenters: Mike Wood and Michelle Williams. Summary: Experience this step-by-step webinar on how to get the most from the new Amigo 8 by Enhanced Vision. We will teach you how to set up and customize your Amigo to get the most out of the new features. Don't miss out on this educational hour as we demonstrate live and answer your questions in real-time! Objectives: Learn the initial setup process. Navigating the menu with buttons. How to turn certain features on and off based on your client's needs and abilities. ACVREP Credits: ACVREP credits will be available for those who attend the live webinar. Help Us Spread the Word. Please feel free to share this invitation with someone you think might benefit from attending. Registration: Register for this webinar on Zoom:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_nNe4cSnbRQamQ3CvtlxqEw
6) Free Presentation | Introduction to Services Webinar | Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled
October 19th 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Join the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled on Wednesday, October 19th 2022 at 11:00 AM for an Introduction to Services Webinar. Geared to those new to the library's services, this 30-minute presentation will focus on the library's overall operation, qualifications for library service, and how to complete the application process. This program will be presented via Zoom. If you have any questions or require accommodation, please let the library know before October 12th 2022:
https://bit.ly/IntroLBPD
7) Meet the New RUBY 10 | ACVREP CE Approved | Access Ingenuity
October 19th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos from Access Ingenuity and Joe McDaniel from Vispero to as they demonstrate the advanced capabilities of the latest low vision solution from Freedom Scientific, the RUBY 10. The video magnifier has a 10-inch touchscreen and three dedicated cameras, and it can magnify letters, magazines, labels, and photos. The swing-out arm allows you to view items in your hand and write. When extended, it also enables full-page OCR. With a touch of a button, you can scan pages and have them read aloud to you. The third camera can see objects at a short distance, such as signs and menus on a wall. Users can utilize cutting-edge magnification features with industry-leading OCR to maximize the reading experience. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: How the RUBY 10 uses cutting-edge view modes not seen in any other device. Discover different uses of the RUBY 10. How the RUBY 10 differs from the other models. Why having OCR in a portable unit can be a game-changer. Meeting ID: 825 2253 8548 | Passcode: 942730 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,82522538548#,,,,*942730# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82522538548?pwd=M01GbVVEZGxqd1BYbXFjQjJPOVhYZz09#success
8) Hosting a Zoom Meeting with JAWS | Freedom Scientific
October 20th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Want to learn how to navigate the Zoom interface more efficiently with JAWS when scheduling meetings and other events? Objectives: Participants will learn how to: Navigate the Zoom interface. Schedule a meeting. Open and navigate the list of meeting participants. Start/stop screen share. Open accessibility settings. Freedom Scientific Presenters: Elizabeth Whitaker, Cathy Johnson, and Rachel Buchanan. ACVREP Credits: ACVREP credits will be available for those who attend the live webinar. Help Us Spread the Word: Please feel free to share this invitation with someone you think might benefit from attending. Register:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_URCFlNe4S0GF771EeDj0EQ
9) Democracy Live Workshop | Presenting The Latest in Accessible Electronic Voting | Florida Outreach Center for The Blind
October 20th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Please join The Florida Outreach Center for the Blind for our next exciting and informative workshop. We are excited to have a representative from Democracy Live. They will be presenting the latest electronic voting ballot where you can vote completely independently and in the comfort of your own home for the upcoming elections! This ballot is completely accessible and will allow an individual to use various screen readers/magnification software of their own choice. In addition, you can access the platform on your computer, tablet, or smart phone. A door prize will be given out at the conclusion of the meeting. If you have any questions regarding our workshop or any of our programs and services please call us at: (561) 642-0005 📱️ or email us at: info_focb@bellsouth.net 📧️. Also check us out on our brand-new web site at: https://www.floridaoutreachcenter.org/. We look forward to having you join us for our next exciting and informative workshop. Duration: 1:00 PM ET to 3:00 PM ET | Meeting ID: 835 8160 5488 | One tap mobile: +13126266799,,83581605488# | Dial directly: +1 312 626 6799 | Meeting ID: 835 8160 548. Zoom:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83581605488?pwd=UWYvTVZ2Q2RRejhJamVJREF4Rlltdz09
10) Intro to Mobile Accessibility Testing Tools | TPGi
October 25th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenters: Laurie Pagano, Senior Accessibility Engineer. 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 Senior 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:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-october-25-at-12pm-et-intro-to-mobile-accessibility-testing-tools/
11) JAWS: Getting Help & Accessing Existing Training Materials | Access Ingenuity
October 26th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Get to know the various tools, help menu options, and free training materials that already exist with JAWS. Join Rachel Reeves, Marisa Church, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity to discover ways you can get assistance with concepts, commands, exercises, additional web resources, and more. Learning Outcomes: Various help tools in JAWS, including Keyboard Help, Screen Sensitive Help, etc. Additional help menu options, including the manual, web resources, and free training. Free training web resources such as the Freedom Scientific Training YouTube channel, Free Webinars Training page and the Surf's Up Training website. Meeting ID: 886 5246 9982 | Passcode: 215449 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,88652469982#,,,,*215449# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88652469982?pwd=WnB6L21JbnZwZEpMMEJVM0N2K3VuUT09#success
12) Virtual Career Fair During Blind Equality Achievement Month | National Federation of the Blind
October 26th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Join us Wednesday, October 26, 2022, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Eastern via Zoom for our fall virtual career fair. There is no charge for employers or job seekers. The National Federation of the Blind career fairs are events for blind people seeking jobs to connect with employers, and an opportunity for employers to seek more talent for their teams. The career fairs may be in-person or virtual and provide additional trainings for developing skills such as interviewing tips. Join us for the next career fair. Registration required by October 12, 2022. For more information on the career fair, please contact Dick Davis, Employment Committee Chair, at dickblind@gmail.com 📧️, John Dubay, Employer Liaison, at jdubay@leadsatscale.com, or Rachel Kuntz at rkuntz@saavi.us 📧️. About National Federation of the Blind Employment Initiatives
With opportunities to compete in the workplace in terms of equality, blind people can achieve careers based on their dreams, talents, and abilities. The National Federation of the Blind connects working-age blind people with opportunities and resources to compete in the workplace on terms of equality. For more information, contact Maurice Peret, NOMCT, Coordinator of Career Mentoring & Employment Programs, at mperet@nfb.org or (410) 659-9314 📱️, extension 2350.
Registration for Job Seekers: https://nfb.org/form/career-fair-jobseeker-registration
Registration for Employers: https://nfb.org/form/career-fair-employer-registration
13) Inclusive Cybersecurity Workshop For Middle And High School Students
October 28th 2022 | 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 11PM GMT | The goal is to explore cybersecurity concepts with fun games and puzzles. This is for beginners and no experience needed in computer programming etc. At the end of the workshop, we believe that the kids would like to learn more about cyber and technology opportunities. The workshop is designed to be accessible to all. Agenda: Protecting Information online. Ciphers and Encryption. Online Scavenger Hunt. Quiz. Please enroll here to join:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1Nii4FvGm0Oe3mh76c9j7lCSCLrHYzWr8f4qqcVsAEz8/viewform?ts=633a4fdc&edit_requested=true
14) Fourth Annual Digital Accessibility Legal Summit | Sponsored By TPGi
November 1st 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | TPGi is proud to sponsor the Fourth Annual Digital Accessibility Legal Summit, a virtual conference and we invite you to join us on Tuesday & Wednesday, November 1st & 2nd, from 12:00 Noon to 5:00 PM Eastern Time each day. Attendees and presenters will range from digital accessibility consultants to governmental personnel to lawyers "from both the plaintiff and defendant side of the legal landscape." Come and attend a talk led by Vispero's (TPGi's parent company) Director of Business Development, Laura Boniello Miller, "Emerging legal issues in... Unattended Retail: What could possibly go wrong for customers with disabilities?" from 2:15 PM to 2:45 PM on day 2:
https://www.tpgi.com/tpgi-sponsor-fourth-annual-digital-accessibility-legal-summit/
15) Fourth Annual Digital Accessibility Legal Summit | Sponsored By TPGi
November 2nd 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | TPGi is proud to sponsor the Fourth Annual Digital Accessibility Legal Summit, a virtual conference and we invite you to join us on Tuesday & Wednesday, November 1st & 2nd, from 12:00 Noon to 5:00 PM Eastern Time each day. Attendees and presenters will range from digital accessibility consultants to governmental personnel to lawyers "from both the plaintiff and defendant side of the legal landscape." Come and attend a talk led by Vispero's (TPGi's parent company) Director of Business Development, Laura Boniello Miller, "Emerging legal issues in... Unattended Retail: What could possibly go wrong for customers with disabilities?" from 2:15 PM to 2:45 PM on day 2:
https://www.tpgi.com/tpgi-sponsor-fourth-annual-digital-accessibility-legal-summit/
16) WordPress Accessibility Day
November 2nd 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | WordPress Accessibility Day is a free, 24-hour online event scheduled to start at 15:00 UTC (11:00 US Eastern, 8:00 US Pacific) on Wednesday, November 2nd. The conference will be held virtually so you can present from anywhere worldwide. Here are some other important things to know about speaking at WordPress Accessibility Day: We will provide an accessible speaking experience — the presentation platform will be screen reader-friendly, and we will have captions and sign language interpretation available for speakers as needed. You don't have to have speaking experience! We would love to have first-time speakers present and can support you in presenting as needed. You don't have to be an "expert" or have any special certifications. Anyone with something to share related to accessibility on the web or in WordPress is invited to apply. You can share your journey learning about accessibility or your experience as a person with a disability even if you don't think you've reached the end of that journey yet. Your topic doesn't have to be explicitly WordPress related. While we want some talks specific to WordPress and want to encourage developer-level presentations, not all talks need to be specific to WordPress. General website accessibility talks with broad applications for websites of all types and people of all levels of technical abilities are welcome. If you have an idea for a talk to share your knowledge or experiences about the intersection of WordPress and accessibility, we'd love to hear it!
https://wpaccessibility.day/weekend-plans-apply-to-speak-at-wp-accessibility-day/
17) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 2: Emergent Literacy and LEGO Braille Bricks | APH
November 4th 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Let's discover together the countless possibilities for developing pre-braille skills using LEGO Braille Bricks and other manipulative tools:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
18) Let's Go Shopping 7 | Elegant Insights
November 4th 2022 | We're just a month away! The 2022 holiday edition of Let's Go Shopping is scheduled for Friday, November 4th 2022 and Saturday, November 5th 2022. Several business owners have already sent in their RSVP, with an intent to present attendees with a full slate of fabulous gift ideas, so you can shop 'til you drop right from the comfort of your home. I'll have a few new vendors for you, as well as returning favorites. I'll also have a new hour set aside just to help with overburdened budgets this year, thanks to inflation. Any vendor who joins us for the inflation-fighters hour has pledged to offer at least one item at a deep discount. While of course, every little bit helps, I'll be honest, a measly ten percent discount barely gets my attention. The Let's Go Shopping entrepreneurs have agreed to do better than that, at least for one special item. We'll also have the usual stocking stuffers hour, where vendors with smaller gifts that would make great "secret Santa," "white elephant" gift exchanges, or thoughtful stocking fillers will share their products, all under $20.00. Finally, we'll also have our end of the day happy hour, our casual Q and A session for those who may have missed some info during a vendor presentation. Here's the important part: If you know of anyone who would like to join us, either as a vendor, or as an attendee, please send them our link below. It's the main information page for Let's Go Shopping, and they can subscribe to our groups list for all the relevant details, including the Zoom virtual shopping mall login. They can also send a blank email to: lgs+subscribe@groups.io 📧️. to sign up to our announce list. This is where all the most important info is posted, including special sales, promos, giveaways, and the event schedule and vendor directory. So, please share this message! Get ready to shop for the best gifts from the best variety of small business owners anywhere, and get your gift list checked off early. Ready for a little retail therapy? Let's Go Shopping! Laura Legendary, Founder, Let's Go Shopping Virtual Events:
https://accessibleinsights.info/blog/lets-go-shopping/
19) Let's Go Shopping 7 | Elegant Insights
November 5th 2022 | We're just a month away! The 2022 holiday edition of Let's Go Shopping is scheduled for Friday, November 4th 2022 and Saturday, November 5th 2022. Several business owners have already sent in their RSVP, with an intent to present attendees with a full slate of fabulous gift ideas, so you can shop 'til you drop right from the comfort of your home. I'll have a few new vendors for you, as well as returning favorites. I'll also have a new hour set aside just to help with overburdened budgets this year, thanks to inflation. Any vendor who joins us for the inflation-fighters hour has pledged to offer at least one item at a deep discount. While of course, every little bit helps, I'll be honest, a measly ten percent discount barely gets my attention. The Let's Go Shopping entrepreneurs have agreed to do better than that, at least for one special item. We'll also have the usual stocking stuffers hour, where vendors with smaller gifts that would make great "secret Santa," "white elephant" gift exchanges, or thoughtful stocking fillers will share their products, all under $20.00. Finally, we'll also have our end of the day happy hour, our casual Q and A session for those who may have missed some info during a vendor presentation. Here's the important part: If you know of anyone who would like to join us, either as a vendor, or as an attendee, please send them our link below. It's the main information page for Let's Go Shopping, and they can subscribe to our groups list for all the relevant details, including the Zoom virtual shopping mall login. They can also send a blank email to: lgs+subscribe@groups.io 📧️. to sign up to our announce list. This is where all the most important info is posted, including special sales, promos, giveaways, and the event schedule and vendor directory. So, please share this message! Get ready to shop for the best gifts from the best variety of small business owners anywhere, and get your gift list checked off early. Ready for a little retail therapy? Let's Go Shopping! Laura Legendary, Founder, Let's Go Shopping Virtual Events:
https://accessibleinsights.info/blog/lets-go-shopping/
20) AT Gifts for the Holidays | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Our annual look at gadgets and gizmos that will make your holiday season a successful one. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
21) ATHEN Annual Meeting 2022
November 9th 2022 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Please hold the date for the ATHEN Annual Meeting. All are welcome to attend the ATHEN Annual Meeting which will take place Wednesday, November 9th 2022 from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM Eastern. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information and the Zoom link for joining the meeting. Real-Time Captioning will be provided. If you would like to request any additional disability-related accommodations, please indicate this on the Zoom form or contact me at: athenpresident@gmail.com 📧️. Register in advance for this meeting at:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUkd-qoqzkjHtfDz8f_4AG70f5HKm-EouSi
22) ACB's 2022 Audio Description Awards Gala
November 29 2022 | The American Council of the Blind (ACB) proudly announces the second annual Audio Description Awards Gala on November 29, 2022. The Gala will once again celebrate outstanding achievements in audio description in media and expand awareness of its benefits. In recent years there has been enormous success in expanding audio description for audiences who are blind, low vision, or have other sensory disabilities that create barriers to full inclusion in visual media. "The Audio Description Awards Gala will celebrate the best of the best within the art and science of inclusive audio-described media," said Eric Bridges, ACB's Executive Director. "Together we will work to expand awareness of the transformative value that audio description brings to the lives of people with disabilities:"
https://acb.org/save-the-date-2022-AD-Awards
23) Blind Health Expo | The Accessible Pharmacy
December 2nd 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | The Accessible Pharmacy Blind Health Expo will be the largest virtual expo of healthcare information, products, services, and medication for individuals who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision. Join thousands of other attendees and register now for free!
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/blind-health-expo/
24) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
December 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
25) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 3: Creative Manual Activities for Christmas | APH
December 12th 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Christmas is a great time to create crafts. Let's share amazing and fun tactile ideas adapted to visually impaired children:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
26) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 4: Braille Around the World | APH
January 4th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Let's celebrate Louis Braille's Day and explore different braille codes around the world:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
27) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 5: School Aged Numeracy | APH
February 1st 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Using LEGO Braille Bricks to do math: let's discover some of the many uses of these little bricks to develop numerical and geometry skills, understand symmetry, and much more:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
28) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 6: Daily Living Activities | APH
March 6th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Let's explore daily-living activities using LEGO Braille Bricks and share our best practices, experiences, tips:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
29) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 7: Music | APH
April 5th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Let's discover together how to make music with these famous bricks! Come and share your creative ideas:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
30) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 8: STEM | APH
May 3rd 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Have you ever thought of doing science, computing, or technology with LEGO Braille Bricks? Expert guests will join us for an amazing session:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
31) Lego Braille Bricks Live Session 9: Orientation & Mobility | APH
June 7th 2023 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | LEGO bricks to build plans, visualize routes, it's not new! But with LEGO Braille Bricks you can also create labels, add letters, words... Then it becomes really great:
https://www.aph.org/lego-braille-bricks-live-sessions/
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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
✍ List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. Fill out this short form to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-buy-sell-trade or learn more on the Top Tech Tidbits website.
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: Aira
➜ Webinar: Discovering Aira on the Blind Shell | September 27th 2022 at 2:00 PM ET
Join us for this monthly series featuring Diane Ducharme of BlindShell USA and Jenine Stanley of Aira as they discover all there is to know about using Aira on the BlindShell Classic 2 phone:
https://aira.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_g9O7k3RaR7mYYT1ODnm0cA
Sponsor Since: August 4th 2022
Website: https://aira.io/ 🌐
Download the App: Apple App Store | Google Play Store
Plans and Pricing: https://aira.io/pricing/
Phone: NA: +1.800.835.1934 📱️ | AU: +1.800.765.096 📱️ | UK: +0.800.046.5668 📱️ | NZ: +1.800.425.451 📱️
Text Message: NA: +1.858.242.4457 📲 | AU: +61.488.839.767 📲 | UK: +44.149.320.2474 📲
Email: support@aira.io 📧️
Social: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
About: Aira's mission is to remove barriers and make the world more accessible with visual interpreting.
We provide a live, human-to-human professional assistance service, an accommodation or productivity tool, that enhances independence by delivering on-demand, skilled and reliable visual interpreting for just about any task. Using the powerful combination of a camera and the Aira app on someone's device of 'choice', a professionally-trained agent will assist by visually interpreting what is in the camera's view or on screen, from describing to reading, from explaining to navigating - just about anything, safely and securely. Aira supports a growing range of devices including smart and tactile button phones, desktop computers and soon, wearables.
Whether you are involved in the work of business, the work of school or the work of life, Aira enhances everyday efficiency, engagement, and independence. Used by employees and customers of hundreds of organizations including airports, banks, the largest software companies, financial firms, retailers and universities, we invite you to join the community, access the Aira app today and try it for free.
https://aira.io/download-and-try-it/
Step One: Subscribe and Download. Pick the plan that lets you explore on your terms and on your time, sign up in a few minutes, and download the Aira app to your smartphone. Plans shown are for the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Add or cancel at any time.
Step Two: Connect with an Aira Agent. On the first call, connect with one of our certified, specially-trained Agents and learn how everything works.
Step Three: Real-time Assistance. At the touch of a button, Aira delivers instant access to visual information, when and where you want it.
Sponsor: Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
➜ Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore: Touch Tomorrow in Today's Products
Serving blind people since 1999, we're a family-owned, forward-thinking company offering both tried-and-true and exciting new products for blind and low vision consumers. We design and carry self-voicing educational software, Braille supplies, talking gadgets, adapted household items, tactile card and board games, audible toys and gift ideas. Passionate about innovation, we've also created dozens of products from scratch when a suitable solution did not exist. Shop online at http://www.braillebookstore.com/ and enjoy fast, free shipping.
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: http://www.braillebookstore.com/ 🌐
Phone (Toll Free): (800) 987-1231 📱️
Fax (Toll Free): (800) 985-1231 ░
Email: Sales@BrailleBookstore.com 📧️
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time.
About: Welcome to Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore. We have been supplying products to blind people and their families since 1999. We offer thousands of Braille books, toys, games, kitchen aids, and talking products. We have unbeatable prices, fast, free shipping, and great customer service! We have tons of Braille books and cool products to choose from; so grab a cup of coffee, relax, and we'll give you a quick tour:
Products:
➜ Timekeeping
➜ Housewares
➜ On The Go
➜ Low Vision Products
➜ Toys and Games
➜ Gift Shop
➜ Braille Workshop
➜ Braille Bookstore
➜ Greeting Cards
➜ Copy Center
➜ Computer Lab
➜ Popular Products
➜ New Products
If you need some fresh ideas or have questions, you can also check out our Shopping Guides.
Sponsor: Fable
➜ Free and Accessible Training for the Tech Sector
Fable Pathways helps you gain the skills that you need to work in the tech sector with a free, accessible, and on-demand program. Learn from industry leaders with disabilities to take your career to the next level, like Kelly Ford, Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, who introduces GitHub and VS Code using a screen reader. Spend less time and energy trying to access courses with your assistive technology and focus on the content that matters to you, with Fable Pathways' accessible platform. Sign up today!
https://www.fablepathways.com/
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: https://fablepathways.com/ 🌐
Email: community@makeitfable.com 📧️
Phone: (888) 212-3532 📱️ Extension 810
About: Just like curb cuts help everyone get on and off sidewalks, designing digital products with accessibility in mind helps make the internet more accessible for everyone. Fable is an accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities. Fable connects people with disabilities to accessibility managers, user researchers, designers, and developers to build incredible and accessible user experiences.
Opportunities:
➜ Fable Pathways: Fable Pathways is a free skill development program for people with disabilities interested in working in the tech sector. Sign up to take your career to the next level. Courses include "Getting started in web development" taught by Kelly Ford, a screen reader user, and Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, and "Becoming a manager" taught by Fable's Head of Accessibility Innovation, Kate Kalcevich. Instructors are subject matter experts in their fields and have lived experience with disability. Pathways courses are free, self-paced and assistive-technology-friendly. Sign up now at https://fablepathways.com/.
➜ Fable's Community of Accessibility Testers: Work from home to contribute to real changes in digital accessibility and make the internet a more accessible place for everyone. Ever leave a website because it was too hard to navigate? Because it was missing button labels? Because it didn't respond to voice commands? Us too. Our community of testers who use assistive technologies work from home and contribute to real changes in digital accessibility with recognizable brands. Earn money to share your feedback on websites and apps of your favorite brands and work with companies that care. No experience required and no resume required. Fable is looking for assistive technology users in the USA and Canada to work the hours that they want, from the comfort of their own homes. Learn more at https://fablepathways.com/community/.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ Dolphin Friends Program
If you work for a non-profit, charity or society that provides services to people with visual impairments, we invite you to take part in our Dolphin Friends Program. Dolphin will outfit your center with assistive technology solutions that can benefit your clients who need to remain independent, are trying to sharpen their technology skills for employment and more. Learn more about becoming a Dolphin Friend:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/join-dolphin-friends
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Sponsor: Clusiv
➜ Looking For Blind Job-Seekers Wanting To Advance Their Salaries, Careers And Digital Accessibility For The Blind
Are you interested in learning new tech skills and working remotely while earning a competitive salary? At Clusiv.io we have created the world's first digitally accessible e-Learning platform built by the blind, and built for the blind. Visit the link provided and request Clusiv through your Vocational Rehab counselor for lifetime access to our e-Learning platform with courses such as Business Applications, JAWS, and more:
https://clusiv.io/
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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 from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Control the climate of your home independently! The VIP 3000 is a universal heating — cooling talking thermostat This accessible digital thermostat is specifically designed to offer audio playback of indoor temperature, temperature settings and programming instructions so blind and visually impaired users can independently & precisely manage their indoor comfort. Don't over pay. Read more at:
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 every day 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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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 Next Generation in Accessibility
Need to quickly access a distant computer with minimal fuss? Need to quickly convert image documents into readable text? Today's students and working professionals demand more of their technology. Employers expect more of their workforce. Pneuma Solutions is bridging the gap using the best in machine learning to connect you to your environment when you need it, how you need it. Give us a try, and experience accessibility on a whole new level:
https://pneumasolutions.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
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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Combine Learning And Gaming For A Fun Braille Adventure With Polly!
APH and Thinkerbell Labs are excited to introduce Polly, complete with customizable UEB lessons, songs, games, and stories! Join our waiting list to know when Polly is available:
https://www.aph.org/polly-wait-list/
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
➜ Announcing The Availability of the 60 Inch Locking Titanium Telescopic Cane
Why hasn't somebody thought to produce a locking telescopic cane in multiple sizes? For a whole lot of years! Why hasn't there been accurate talking medical products where the thermometer gives you the same reading twice? And why do we get devices marketed to us where the USB port has a life expectancy of months rather than years? Haven't figured out how to solve the last one yet, but the first two, we have. Call Barry at: (617) 969-7500 📱️, or by email at barry.scheur@gmail.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, affordable, 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
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: That Real Blind Tech Show
➜ That Real Blind Tech Show Episode 96: We Got More Resolutions, ACB Style!
It's a fully packed That Real Blind Tech show lair. Join us as we recap this year's ACB Resolutions. We chime in with all of our opinions about this year's resolutions, and as usual some hilarity ensues. You will not want to miss both AirPods issues that take place on this episode. We are adding do not listen to That Real Blind Tech show on the bus as we are not responsible for the stares you will receive when laughing or cackling like a lunatic!
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-96-we-got-more-resolutions-acb-style
Sponsor Since: August 11th 2022
Website: https://blindtechshow.com/ 🌐
Email: ThatRealBlindTechShow@gmail.com 📧️
Social: Facebook Page | Facebook Group | Twitter
Listen: Apple Podcasts | Audible | Google Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube
Hosts: Brian Fischler | Ed Plumacher | Allison Meloy | Jenine Stanley
Goals: We want to educate you on the latest tech for the blindness community. You'll learn what is worth keeping and what you need to return. Our goals are: To inform, inspire and educate our audience. Feature guests and products that bring you value. Continuously improve and deliver the best content.
About: A podcast discussing the good & bad of assistive technology for the low vision & totally blind. No longer focused on just Apple VoiceOver technology. That Real Blind Tech show covers all the fantastic talking tech and gadgets out there for the low vision and blindness community. Common topics include Apple's VoiceOver, JAWS, Microsoft Narrator, NVDA, Amazon Alexa and VoiceView, Google Assistant and Android. Basically, if a device can talk to you, we are going to be talking about it. That Real Blind Tech Show will not only educate you, but it will also make you laugh. Listeners are encouraged to not use treadmills or drink hot coffee while listening to our show, or accidents can and have occurred. Dishes have been broken while listening to That Real Blind Tech Show, and while we are responsible for the laughs, we are in no way responsible for the injuries or bills that pile up. Remember to keep it Real and also don't believe anything you hear on That Real Blind Tech Show.
Home | Episodes | Blog | Contact | Subscribe
Your Name Here
0 of 18 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are currently 0 of 18 packages available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, October 6, 2022 - Volume 879
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.
Subscribers: 7,455 Opt-In Subscribers were sent this issue via email. 145 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: A Celebration of That Real Blind Tech Show's 100th Episode, The Clip Show. Listen In To Some Of The Shows Funniest Moments
That Real Blind Tech Show is a podcast that aims to inform you and make you laugh. We are not your Grandfather's Blind Tech Show. Co-Hosted by Brian Fischler, Ed Plumacher, and Allison Meloy we talk the latest in talking tech products, and give you our honest opinions. Additionally, if you are in NYC, please join us as the tech and comedy worlds collide on October 24th 2022 at Gotham Comedy Club for the return of Laugh For Sight! This year's benefit will feature comedy legend Robert Klein, Ophira Eisenberg, Aaron Berg, Keith Robinson, Joe Derosa, Brian Mccarthy, Andy Fiori, Boris Khaykin, and Brian Fischler with his guide dog Wesley. In honor of our 15th year, we will be presenting the Inaugural Laugh For Sight Lifetime Appreciation Award in which Larry Goldberg will be one of the recipients. All proceeds are being donated to Guiding Eyes For the Blind and the Schwarzman Animal Medical Center's Guide Dog Fund.
Featured in the full promo available here are all of this year's performing comedians which will star Robert Klein, Ophira Eisenberg, Joe Derosa, Keith Robinson, Aaron Berg, Andy Fiori, Boris Khaykin, Brian Fischler with his Guide Dog Wesley, and Host Brian Mccarthy. Also featured in the promo is a photo of GILBERT GOTTFRIED who will be one of this year's inaugural Laugh For Sight Lifetime Appreciation Award recipients. Other recipients include Robert Klein, Chris Mazzilli, and Larry Goldberg. Tickets are $40 for general admission plus a two drink minimum and $125 for VIP Reserved Seating with an open bar. Everyone is invited to come to the silent auction and cocktail hour which will start at 7:00 PM, the comedy show will start at 8: 30 PM.
For tickets visit: https://bit.ly/LFSNYC22.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Tidbit for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Everything Amazon Just Announced At Its Annual Hardware Event: A Kindle You Can Write On, A New TV, Four New Echo's And More (10.8% of all clicks.)
Amazon just announced a bunch of new hardware and software products and services:
https://www.wired.com/story/everything-amazon-announced-september-2022/
B.) Enhancements in JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion 2023 Public Beta 2 (4.0% of all clicks.)
https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/PublicBeta
C.) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: How To Create A To-Do Task In Outlook (3.9% of all clicks.)
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/122.html
D.) Dictating On The iPhone | How To Get The Best Results | 9to5Mac (3.8% of all clicks.)
Dictating on the iPhone is, I would confidently estimate, something I do more than typing. Siri is also the main way I control my HomeKit devices. Any time I've mentioned either of these things, there are always comments from people saying how terrible their experience is with both, so I thought I'd share a few things I think make a difference. If you've just updated to iOS 16, now is a particularly good time to give dictation another go, as you can now easily mix-and-match speaking and typing:
https://9to5mac.com/2022/09/14/dictating-on-the-iphone/
E.) How To Enable The New Power On And Off Sounds For iPhone 14 (3.8% of all clicks.)
Cool Blind Tech brings us instructions for enabling and disabling startup sounds on iOS making it easier for blind and low vision users to know when their phone boots or shuts down:
https://coolblindtech.com/how-to-enable-the-new-power-on-and-off-sounds-for-iphone-14/
2) Premium Subscriber Updates
Premium Subscribers will receive their 3rd Volume of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits for October, November and December 2022 on Monday, January 2nd 2023. Premium Subscribers are entitled to all back issues, anytime they sign up. If you would like to receive a perfectly formatted and searchable Word Document with each of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits of the last 3 months listed neatly within it, please consider joining us today for just $1 a month:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/premium-subscribers.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Weekly Scramble
The Top Tech Tidbits Weekly Scramble presents a single word or phrase related to adaptive or assistive technology whose letters have been scrambled. Can you put the letters back in the proper order to determine this week's word? Check your work next week where we'll provide the answer along with a new challenge.
LAST WEEK'S SCRAMBLE: ALELRBBER SSIEOM = BRAILLE EMBOSSER
NEW SCRAMBLE: IIMCGNAFTAINO =
4) Dolphin SuperNova With Microsoft Office Power Tip: Showing SuperNova Magnification and Visual Effects Through A Microsoft Teams Meeting
Courtesy of Dolphin Computer Access:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/123.html
5) Reader Review: The Talking Cooking Thermometer
Courtesy of Donna Jodhan, Top Tech Tidbits Reader:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/124.html
6) Tech-VI Listserv Celebrates 2 Year Anniversary With Over 1,000 Subscribers on October 10th 2022
Here at Top Tech Tidbits we have a very special appreciation for this list. David Goldfield and the many accurate and timely adaptive technology updates that he provides on a daily basis have become a centerpiece for the adaptive technology community. One that we are always happy to support in any way we can. So please join all of us here at Tidbits in wishing David and the entire Tech-VI List a very happy two year anniversary. To subscribe, send a blank message to:
tech-vi+subscribe@groups.io 📧️
7) Accessibility Resources From Amazon Specifically For Top Tech Tidbits Readers
Yes. You read that right. Amazon has reached out to Top Tech Tidbits and we have agreed to provide readers with ongoing accessibility updates provided directly by their Accessibility Department. Here are some interesting updates to kick off this new partnership:
A.) Amazon has just released a series of new videos, featuring people with disabilities (including an Amazon employee) using many of their accessibility features across Alexa, Fire TV, Kindle, and more. An attempt to help all of their customers (many of which are Tidbits readers) to learn how these features can help them be more connected, entertained, and independent:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLaQihAe6OdwIj3TkzYEKPN0Nycry8-Veo
B.) Additionally, Amazon has redesigned the accessibility portion of their site to make it easier to explore:
https://www.amazon.com/accessibility
C.) Amazon continues to build new features and offerings with all customers in mind, including Tap to Alexa on Fire tablets:
https://www.aboutamazon.com/news/devices/alexa-accessibility-features-extend-to-fire-tablets
D.) And Audio Streaming for Hearing Aids on Fire TV:
https://amazonfiretv.blog/fire-tv-launches-hearing-aid-pairing-423d56625683
E.) This video is Amazon's access flagship favorite:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gJ4vkkGvUbU&list=PLaQihAe6OdwIj3TkzYEKPN0Nycry8-Veo&index=1
F.) Finally, you can also visit the Amazon Accessibility blog at:
https://www.aboutamazon.com/news/devices/how-amazon-is-building-a-more-accessible-future
8) Amazon Wants to Cocoon You With 'Ambient Intelligence'
The company's new smart gadget uses radar to track your breathing while you sleep. It's part of Amazon's plan to weave its products invisibly into your life:
https://www.wired.com/story/amazon-wants-to-cocoon-you-with-ambient-intelligence/
9) Remote Incident Manager Versus The Other Players — Part 2: RIM vs. TeamViewer
I, Aaron Di Blasi, Publisher for Top Tech Tidbits, and former remote computer technician would like to provide some information on this topic that is directly related to an experience that I had recently in serving a blind client. We were attempting to connect via TeamViewer because that was the client's choice of software. Perhaps because it is free and perhaps because we had successfully used it to connect in previous sessions. Not so this time. The client could not use NVDA, Dolphin QS with Supernova or Windows Narrator to access the TeamViewer application. When the client reached out to these screen reader support groups she was informed by both Dolphin and NVDA that, "the current version of TeamViewer has broken accessibility in their user interface for all screen readers." This incident took place on September 29th 2022. With that, we give you the following article:
https://pneumasolutions.com/remote-incident-manager-vs-the-other-players-part-2-rim-vs-teamviewer/
10) Learn Why And How To Make Your Kiosks Accessible | Mary Jo Barry | Dolphin Computer Access
This past year, global reliance on self-service kiosks has grown by leaps and bounds. There is also greater awareness and understanding — both socially and politically — about our need to provide all kiosk users with an equal and accessible experience. If you're just starting to explore accessibility for your self-service kiosk project, we also recommend you check out our blog Make Your Self-Service Kiosk Accessible. There you'll find insight into the positive impacts of showing consideration for the needs of customers with visual impairments. When you make your self-service kiosk accessible, it's a win for your brand and a big win for prospective customers with a disability or neurodiversity:
https://blog.yourdolphin.com/blog/learn-why-and-how-to-make-your-kiosks-accessible
11) Google Calendar's New Keyboard Shortcuts Might Not Be For You, But They Are Very Important
Android phones are accessible to people across a wide price range, from budget handsets going for a few hundred dollars to flagships for more than a thousand. Thanks to Google's efforts, Android is also evolving into a more accessible platform for people with disabilities. The company's newest effort extends beyond the OS and into its web services. Google Calendar is getting keyboard shortcuts that verbally announce specific details for events:
https://www.androidpolice.com/google-calendar-easier-screen-reader-keyboard-shortcuts/
12) Two New Power Toys Useful For Office Users
Two new Windows Power Toys are especially useful for many Microsoft Office users. One is a better way to type accented characters and the other grabs text from images:
https://office-watch.com/2022/two-new-powertoys-useful-for-office-users/
13) Exploring Whether Dual-Frequency GPS on the iPhone 14 Pro Makes a Meaningful Difference to Real-World Navigation | Applevis | David Goodwin
The marquee features of thee iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max are unquestionably upgraded cameras; a new always-on display; and a Dynamic Island' that changes size and shape to accommodate various types of alerts, notifications, and interactions. For my circumstances and use case, I can roughly appraise these as having some potential utility, no utility, and some curiosity appeal. However, digging deep in to the new iPhones' technical specifications, I found something that piqued my interest and which I thought could potentially offer me significant utility, and that is their support for "precision dual-frequency GPS:"
https://applevis.com/blog/exploring-whether-dual-frequency-gps-iphone-14-pro-makes-meaningful-difference-real-world
14) Are Braille Bugs Biting You In iOS 16? Here Is Some Bug Repellent To Help | Scott Davert | Helen Keller National Center for Deafblind Youths and Adults
As many may already be aware, iOS 16 was released on September 12th 2022. For details about many of the new features and changes, please see my article What's New In iOS 16 Accessibility For Blind And DeafBlind Users. Along with every major release come new bugs, and iOS 16 is no exception. For a list of bugs present as detected by the AppleVis Editorial Team, you can visit the blog post entitled The Accessibility Bugs Introduced and Resolved in iOS 16 for Blind and Low Vision Users. Though Apple recently released iOS 16.0.2 which addresses some VoiceOver issues, it did not address a number of bugs related to the editing of text. Though not all users are experiencing these bugs, many are. They seem most common on the iPhone SE 2 and iPhone SE 3, but users on the iPhone 13 Mini and iPhone 12 Mini are also reporting these shortcomings. The purpose of this posting is to discuss workarounds for some of these bugs:
https://www.helenkeller.org/hknc/bug-repellent-help
15) Freedom Scientific October 2022 Training Events
The Freedom Scientific training team offers ongoing opportunities for you to join in live training sessions and advance your skills. You're sure to find something that will help you at work, school, or play:
https://blog.freedomscientific.com/october-2022-training-events/
16) Microsoft Wants You To Help With Assistive Tech | Jonathan Bennett
In college I had an exceptional piano teacher that was entirely blind. One day he noticed I had brought in my new-ish laptop, and his unexpected request — "can I look at your laptop?" — temporarily flabbergasted me. Naturally there wasn't much he could do with it, so he gave it a once over with his fingers to understand the keyboard layout, and that was that. I still think about this experience from time to time, and the most obvious lesson is that my paradigm for using a computer didn't map well to his abilities and disability. The folks at Microsoft are thinking about this problem, too, and they're doing a lot of work to make technology work for more users, like the excellent Xbox Adaptive Controller:
https://hackaday.com/2022/09/30/microsoft-wants-you-to-help-with-assistive-tech/
17) Talking Points | A Bi-Weekly Livestream | BlindShell USA
Talking Points is a bi-weekly livestream where you can learn everything about the BlindShell Classic 2 accessible phone, meet other BlindShell users, ask questions, discover tips and tricks, explore your favorite applications, learn every day hacks to help you streamline your communication skills, and much more. Talking Points is a free 45-minute livestream for anyone interested in learning more about the BlindShell Classic 2 accessible cell phone. Talking Points meets every other Thursday at 1:00 PM Eastern / 10:00 AM Pacific. Register today:
https://blindshellusa.com/talkingpoints/?mc_cid=43b873cc6a
18) Blind Shell Classic 2 Playlist
Payown Media, LLC is producing a series of short form videos about the Blind Shell Classic 2 phone. Currently the playlist consists of 29 videos, and more are being added regularly. The videos provide verbal direction and audio cues from the phone so that you can either follow along with your phone or listen to what the process would be like to complete the task outlined. Accessing this link will take you to the YouTube playlist where you can use heading navigation to navigate through the titles of each video in the playlist and choose that link to begin playback. There's also an opportunity to shuffle the videos or play the list in order:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNC7pndw1rKOpgBJVrx6a6mAKJE9BvxHm
19) Accessible Smart Energy Meters | RNIB
Blind and partially sighted people can now request a free Accessible In-Home Display (AIHD) from their energy supplier:
https://www.rnib.org.uk/living-with-sight-loss/assistive-aids-and-technology/everyday-tech/technology-in-the-home/accessible-smart-energy-meters/
20) AppleVis Unlimited: What's New and Noteworthy for September 2022
https://www.applevis.com/newsletter/applevis-unlimited-whats-new-noteworthy-september-2022
21) Software Developer Invents Assistant Glasses For Blind And Partially Sighted Users
A 25-year-old Turkish Software developer has invented special glasses, named "assistant glasses," that help visually impaired people to "recognize" people or "identify" objects. Graduated from the U.S. Brown College, Melis Gokalp, who is working in an international digital health systems company, wrote the software for the assistant glasses between 2019 and 2021. Here's how they work:
https://coolblindtech.com/software-developer-invents-assistant-glasses-for-blind-and-partially-sighted-users/
22) ASL Now Launches New Mobile App
Connect Direct has launched its new ASL Now app. This is the first-of-its-kind, free mobile app that with the touch of a button connects American Sign Language (ASL) users with trained customer service agents who are fluent in ASL — no interpreters or captions required:
https://www.csd.org/stories/asl-now-launches-new-mobile-app/
23) Upcoming Free Course: VoiceOver In and Out: iOS Edition | TTJ Tech | Mondays and Wednesdays Beginning October 3rd 2022 at 2PM ET
TTJ is now accepting registrations for the upcoming free course: VoiceOver In and Out: iOS Edition. Read on for how to register. This course teaches you everything you need to know about using an iPhone, both with and without VoiceOver, while offering particular emphasis on the fundamentals of navigating with the VoiceOver screen reader. Learn how to set up a new device, how to navigate, how to enter text, how to download and work with apps, how to communicate with others, and so much more, all with VoiceOver. This year's class promises to be our best one yet, and it's still completely free! The course will be held on Mondays and Wednesdays, beginning Monday, October 3, 2022 at 2PM Eastern Time. All sessions will be held in Zoom, with sessions also being posted to YouTube for those who are unable to attend. We strongly recommend that you do attend live sessions whenever possible, as you'll have opportunities to ask questions and try the various concepts we teach. If you will be attending live, please plan to join from a secondary device if at all possible. While this is not a requirement, it will make it easier for you to try what you've learned, while still listening to the session. To register, please use the below registration link, complete the form, and you're all set. You will receive an email confirmation from Zoom with the meeting join info within a few minutes of your registration. Please note that due to the need for registration, and the way that process is being handled, it is not ideal for us to add each live teaching session to our TTJ Public Calendar. Rather, you can quickly add all sessions to your own calendar. To do this, simply locate the Add to Calendar attachment link near the bottom of the Zoom confirmation email and click or tap it (double-tap if you are using VoiceOver). This will allow you to add all sessions to the calendar of your choosing within the Apple Calendar app:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIqceGgrj8jEtKwf9UcUXu8JK_MUbIfPYsU
24) NVDA 2022.2.4 Released
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/nvda-2022-2-4/
25) Speech Accessibility Project
This project at the University of Illinois seeks to help people with various speech disabilities benefit form speech recognition technology:
https://speechaccessibilityproject.beckman.illinois.edu/
26) Matter Is Now Official!
This is a smart home standard that will make device interoperability easier:
https://staceyoniot.com/matter-is-now-official/
27) Microsoft Quietly Releases HDR Calibration App For Windows 11
You can use this app to calibrate your HDR (high dynamic range) monitor or screen on your Windows 11 device:
https://www.thurrott.com/windows/windows-11/274302/microsoft-quietly-releases-hdr-calibration-app-for-windows-11?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter
28) Show Me The Money! | October 2022 Webinar Series | Maryland Department of Disabilities Assistive Technology Program
A month-long financial resiliency webinar series focused on knowledge-building, resources, and services for people with disabilities to increase financial independence:
https://conta.cc/3D2U43t
29) The Document Foundation Releases LibreOffice on Apple's Mac App Store
The Document Foundation (TDF) has announced the release of LibreOffice on Apple's Mac App Store, to support end users who want to get all of their desktop software from Apple's proprietary sales channel:
https://blog.documentfoundation.org/blog/2022/09/19/the-document-foundation-releases-libreoffice-on-apples-mac-app-store/
30) 19 Android Settings You May Not Know About
From using less mobile data to live captions for videos, these settings will make your phone run more smoothly:
https://www.wired.com/story/19-android-settings-tips/
31) Audiogames.net New Monthly Digest Available | JS | Top Tech Tidbits Reader
I'd like to let everyone who might be interested in blind accessible gaming know about the new monthly digest from audiogames.net. The audiogames.net forums have a sadly well deserved dubious reputation as of late, but the digest itself is a drama free, comprehensive, and to-the-point listing of new, upcoming, and updated games. It's not just audio or text only PC games anymore either, they also cover mobile games for both iOS and Android, games for smart assistance like the Amazon Echo, playable mainstream titles (including those for the console), and even mods written by the community which make existing games that would otherwise be inaccessible, possible for us to enjoy. So whether you're someone who's more (RS Games and Alteraeon), or whether The Last of Us II and Hearthstone is more your speed, you'll find something interesting here! If you'd like to sign up for the monthly updates, you can go to:
http://ctemm.me/agd
32) List of Accessibility and Inclusive Design Meetup Groups | Deborah Edwards-Onoro
Whether I'm on Twitter or attending an online event, every week someone asks me about accessibility and inclusive design meetup groups. So I decided to create a list of all the accessibility and inclusive design meetup groups I could find online. I've been updating the list since 2015. With over three dozen groups on the list, I wanted to make it easy for people to find a group. So I decided to organize groups first by region, then alphabetically by city within each region:
https://www.lireo.com/accessibility-inclusive-design-in-person-groups/
33) Speech Accessibility Project Aims to Make Voice Recognition More Inclusive
A new research initiative aims to make voice recognition technology more useful for people with a range of diverse speech patterns and disabilities. Big tech companies like Amazon are supporting the Speech Accessibility Project. The Speech Accessibility Project, which launched on October 3rd 2022, is spearheaded by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Amazon, Apple, Google, Meta and Microsoft are all supporting the project, as well as a handful of nonprofit disability organizations:
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/technology/speech-accessibility-project-aims-to-make-voice-recognition-more-inclusive/ar-AA12ymAn
34) Paid Google Study For Those With Cognitive Accessibility Needs And / Or Those Who Aare Deaf / Hard of Hearing And Use A Tablet | October 5th Through October 31st 2022
Google is undertaking a paid study for those with cognitive accessibility needs or those who are deaf / hard of hearing and use a tablet. Here is what is needed: User Type: Users with Cognitive Accessibility needs and users who are Deaf/Hard of Hearing. Product: Android. Length of Study: 90 minutes and short 3 day diary. Details: All users must use a Tablet Device (e.g. iPad, Samsung Galaxy Tab, Microsoft Surface, Lenovo Tab etc.) Open to Tablet users who also use Stylus, Tablet Keyboards, Smart Watches or Smart Displays. User will have a short 3-day follow up diary assignment. Thank-You Gifts: $100 USD / $125 CAD for 90 mins plus $45 USD / $60 CAD for short 3 day diary. Location: USA / Canada Remote. Link to participate with eligibility form:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfRSkeyvWv-EONUIW0b8i8A0V1CenF-lvmkoCve3l1QMgaeiQ/viewform?resourcekey=0-XdiLbrvGRjNN1l91oHSlIw
35) 1428: Shadows Over Silesia For The Blind
This game claims to be accessible. We'll be trying it out in the next few days:
https://blind.shadows1428.com/
36) 'First-Of-Its-Kind' Program To Train Visually Impaired As Digital Accessibility Testers
This program in North Carolina seeks to train people with visual impairments to assess websites for accessibility:
https://wraltechwire.com/2022/09/22/first-of-its-kind-program-to-train-visually-impaired-as-digital-accessibility-testers/
37) Ways To Make Your Home More Accessible Without Renovating
This article contains some low-cost solutions for improving your home's accessibility:
https://www.housedigest.com/1013836/ways-to-make-your-home-more-accessible-without-renovating/
38) Blind Android Users Turkish Sister Site Blind Android Turkey Launches New App
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tr.bi.erisilebilir.android
39) Audacity 3.2 Now Available
Audacity 3.2.0 is a gigantic release, adding: VST3 support, Realtime Effects support, the ability to upload and share audio with their new sister service, audio.com, and more:
https://www.audacityteam.org/audacity-3-2-is-out-now/
40) GoldWave Audio Editor Version 6.66 Released
New features include: Multiband Compressor effect. Multi-Device Recorder tool. Tempo setting in Time effect. Snap to zero crossing selection setting in Batch Processing. Blend At Marker in Batch Processing. Several fixes and other improvements:
https://goldwave.ca/forums/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=5797&sid=ec7d8eaf228d3087d6c3afc473c478b6
41) How God of War Made Accessibility a Core Part of Its Game Design
For the Ragnarok sequel, Santa Monica Studio incorporated regular feedback from disabled gamers, hosted public conversations on social media, and more:
https://www.wired.com/story/god-of-war-santa-monica-accessibility-game-design/
42) We Spoke With the Last Person Standing in the Floppy Disk Business
Turns out the obsolete floppy is way more in demand than you'd think:
https://eyeondesign.aiga.org/we-spoke-with-the-last-person-standing-in-the-floppy-disk-business/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Press Release or Other News item for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) AccessReady Reporter | Issue 31 | September 29th 2022
The Reporter Newsletter is a service of Access Ready Inc. which is an independent, non-profit, cross-disability education and advocacy organization promoting a policy of inclusion and accessibility of information and communications technology (ICT). For people with disabilities, accessible information and communications technology is a necessity, not a luxury or a convenience, which fosters independence, economic self-sufficiency, and active, meaningful participation in civic life:
https://accessreadyreporter.org/september-29-2022-issue-31.html
2) National Disability Employment Awareness Month, 2022 | The White House
During National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we celebrate the essential contributions to our workplaces, economy, and Nation made by disabled Americans and recommit to promoting equal opportunity for all people:
https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2022/09/30/a-proclamation-on-national-clean-energy-action-month-2022/
3) Senator Duckworth and Representative Sarbanes Introduce Bill to Make Websites and Mobile Applications Accessible to Individuals with Disabilities
The American Council of the Blind (ACB), the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB), the National Disability Rights Network (NDRN), and the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) commend Sen. Duckworth and Rep. Sarbanes for their leadership and for introducing this legislation with the full support and collaboration of the disability community. Once passed, this legislation would require the Department of Justice and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission to establish a clear and enforceable uniform national framework for website and software application accessibility, reaffirm that existing disability rights law covers websites and software applications, and ensure that accessibility standards keep pace with new and emerging technologies:
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/senator-duckworth-and-representative-sarbanes-introduce-bill-to-make-websites-and-mobile-applications-accessible-to-individuals-with-disabilities-301637276.html
4) A First Look at the Websites and Software Applications Accessibility Act Bill | Ben Myers
This week, Sen. Tammy Duckworth and Rep. John Sarbanes introduced a digital accessibility bill called the Websites and Software Applications Accessibility Act (or the #A11yAct, if you're on Twitter) to Congress. If passed, it would build on the Americans with Disabilities Act, and lead to clearer regulations for digital accessibility requirements in the US:
https://benmyers.dev/blog/a11yact-bill/
5) Please Contact your Members of Congress to Support the new Websites and Software Applications Accessibility Act | AFB Team
This week, the Websites and Software Applications Accessibility Act (S. 4998, H.R. 9021) was introduced in both houses of Congress by Senator Duckworth of Illinois and Representative Sarbanes of Maryland! AFB's Public Policy and Research Institute has been working with the National Federation of the Blind, the American Council of the Blind, and the National Disability Rights Network on the bill's introduction. Take Action on how you can contact your members of Congress
https://www.afb.org/take-action/web-app-bill?sourceid=1074348&emci=ffe563ee-2a40-ed11-b495-00224832e4ca&emdi=c3cb7dab-fe40-ed11-b495-00224832e4ca&ceid=9602623
6) The Prevalence of Social Isolation Among PWD (And How to Combat It)
This article argues for increased accessibility for persons with disabilities through gaming and technology:
https://ablegamers.org/the-prevalence-of-social-isolation-among-pwd-and-how-to-combat-it/
7) The IRS Alternative Media Center: Working To Ensure Tax Info Is Accessible To Everyone
The agency's Alternative Media Center offers a variety of resources and accessibility services for visually impaired taxpayers. Tax-related content is available in several formats for use with assistive technology. This includes screen reading software, refreshable Braille displays and screen magnifying software. People can view and download hundreds of tax forms and publications in alternative formats, many of which are available in Spanish, including:
https://www.bctv.org/2022/09/29/the-irs-alternative-media-center-working-to-ensure-tax-info-is-accessible-to-everyone/
8) Learning With Annie: How Thinkerbell Labs Is Rethinking Assistive Technology For The Visually Impaired
When we think about civil rights, equality, and nondiscrimination, we're mostly thinking about race and gender. Does disability come to mind? Especially, when it comes to employment and poverty regarding people who are blind:
https://yourstory.com/2022/10/thinkerbell-annie-rethinking-assistive-technology-visually-impaired/amp
9) Banking When Blind: The Importance of App and Web Accessibility | Lily Mordaunt
I am one of the 78% of Americans who does their banking online. I also happen to be one of the 1 in 4 with a disability. I have been fortunate to have had, for the most part, accessible banking experiences. But, with 58% of banks being inaccessible as recently as 2018, my positive experience may be in the minority. Read on to learn what 4 common banking experiences are like as a blind person, how these experiences can be accessible, and why accessibility on websites and apps is important to banking customers with disabilities like me:
https://blog.usablenet.com/banking-when-blind-the-importance-of-app-and-web-accessibility
10) FCC Gives the OK to More EAS Improvements
The changes adopted Thursday, September 29th 2022 at the commission's monthly meeting are meant to make the alerts from broadcasters more informative and easier to understand by the public, particularly for people with disabilities, the FCC said. The updated rules will replace the technical jargon that accompanies certain alerts - including test messages - with plain language terms, but the changes will affect radio broadcasters in other ways. New rules also will require broadcasters, cable systems and other Emergency Alert System (EAS) participants to transmit the Internet-based version of alerts to the public when available, rather than transmit the legacy version of alerts:
https://www.radioworld.com/news-and-business/business-and-law/fcc-gives-the-ok-to-more-eas-improvements
11) Florida Outreach Center for the Blind Announces New Website
We are extremely proud to announce our brand-new web site that reflects the Florida Outreach Center for the Blind along with its programs, services, outreach, and community events. We have been working hard on this project, and we are extremely excited to share the news with everybody. Please check it out and give us any feed back on how we can make it better and engage with you on what the Florida Outreach Center is all about:
https://www.floridaoutreachcenter.org/
12) Star Trek: Strange New Worlds a Finalist for Inaugural Audio People's Choice Award
The American Counsel of the Blind (ACB) has announced that it is launching its very first Audio Description People's Choice Award competition, and Star Trek: Strange New Worlds is one of the premiere ten finalists:
https://www.dailystartreknews.com/read/star-trek-strange-new-worlds-a-finalist-for-inaugural-audio-peoples-choice-award
13) Stimulation To Visual Cortex Could Reduce Hallucinations In Blind Patients
Using a non-invasive stimulation on the brain may be effective in reducing the frequency of visual hallucinations in blind patients, a new study has found:
https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-09-visual-cortex-hallucinations-patients.html
14) NSITE and WOS Partner to Increase IT/Tech Employment Opportunities for Blind/Low-Vision Individuals
As we approach October, National Disability Employment Awareness Month, it is important to note that despite the record-low unemployment rate of 3.7% in the United States, only 19% of disabled adults are employed, according to US Department of Labor (USDoL) statistics:
https://www.einnews.com/amp/pr_news/593026072/nsite-and-wos-partner-to-increase-it-tech-employment-opportunities-for-blind-low-vision-individuals
15) Radius XR, A New Fashion-Forward Wearable Technology Brand, Brings Together Multimodal Diagnostics, Practice Management, And Patient Engagement For The First Time
IrisVision co-founder and CEO Ammad Khan has introduced a new company, Radius XR, to coincide with the opening of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) 2022 meeting in Chicago. Radius XR builds on the therapeutic legacy of IrisVision by introducing diagnostic capability to the proprietary VR/AR assistive device:
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220928005007/en/Radius-XR-a-new-fashion-forward-wearable-technology-brand-brings-together-multimodal-diagnostics-practice-management-and-patient-engagement-for-the-first-time
16) MBTA Launches Online Applications For Tap And Blind Access Customers
The MBTA announced that eligible riders can now apply online for a new, renewal, or replacement TAP CharlieCard or Blind Access CharlieCard. People with disabilities (including low vision) and Medicare cardholders are eligible for reduced MBTA fares with a TAP CharlieCard and people who are legally blind are eligible for free MBTA fares with a Blind Access CharlieCard:
http://eastietimes.com/2022/09/28/mbta-launches-online-applications-for-tap-and-blind-access-customers/
17) Zola Class Action Claims Website Inaccessible To Visually Impaired, Blind Consumers
Retailer Zola does not make its website accessible to blind and visually impaired people using a screen reader in violation of the law, a new class action lawsuit alleges:
https://topclassactions.com/disability-class-action-lawsuit/zola-class-action-claims-website-inaccessible-to-visually-impaired-blind-consumers/
18) Braille Banners Of Support For Visually Impaired Runners At London Marathon
Vision impaired runners will be able to feel braille banners of support as they run at this year's London Marathon:
https://www.standard.co.uk/news/london/braille-banners-support-visually-impaired-runners-london-marathon-rsbc-b1029107.html
19) Skateboarder And TikTok Star Anthony Ferraro, Who Is Blind, Is Pushing Forward Inclusivity In Action Sports
When Anthony Ferraro and his then-girlfriend, Kelly, made a video in January 2021 about his daily life as someone who was born blind and posted it to TikTok, neither of them had very high expectations:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/michellebruton/2022/10/04/skateboarder-and-tiktok-star-anthony-ferraro-who-is-blind-is-pushing-forward-inclusivity-in-action-sports/?sh=3bb106885abb
➜ Surveys
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related survey for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-survey or locate "Survey Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Surveys: From APH
Closes: Ongoing Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
2) Survey: Aira Seeks Android Users for Closed Beta Testing
Closes: October 13th 2022Aira is excited to announce that we are working on improving our mobile app across both iOS and Android devices. As our apps evolve, we have invested in technology that allows us to write features once and have them available on multiple device types, which means for you, the pace of updates and new functionality will be more consistent. We are seeking individuals, particularly Android users, who are interested in participating in a closed Beta. We need people who are excited to try new technologies, enjoy giving feedback, and are not discouraged when things aren't working as expected. The closed beta will begin some time in the next month. To apply for consideration, please complete the form at:
https://bit.ly/airabeta
3) Survey: Alt Text | Karlen Communications
Closes: October 13th 2022I've launched a new iteration of the Alt Text Survey that I conducted last year. The 2022 version is now here: https://forms.office.com/r/QBLTwR5kg3
4) Survey: Paid Google Study For Those With Cognitive Accessibility Needs And / Or Those Who Aare Deaf / Hard of Hearing And Use A Tablet
Closes: October 31st 2022Google is undertaking a paid study for those with cognitive accessibility needs or those who are deaf / hard of hearing and use a tablet. Here is what is needed: User Type: Users with Cognitive Accessibility needs and users who are Deaf/Hard of Hearing. Product: Android. Length of Study: 90 minutes and short 3 day diary. Details: All users must use a Tablet Device (e.g. iPad, Samsung Galaxy Tab, Microsoft Surface, Lenovo Tab etc.) Open to Tablet users who also use Stylus, Tablet Keyboards, Smart Watches or Smart Displays. User will have a short 3-day follow up diary assignment. Thank-You Gifts: $100 USD / $125 CAD for 90 mins plus $45 USD / $60 CAD for short 3 day diary. Location: USA / Canada Remote. Link to participate with eligibility form:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfRSkeyvWv-EONUIW0b8i8A0V1CenF-lvmkoCve3l1QMgaeiQ/viewform?resourcekey=0-XdiLbrvGRjNN1l91oHSlIw
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Podcast Episode for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-podcast-episode or locate "Podcast Episode Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) That Real Blind Tech Show | Episode 100 | The Clip Show Part 1
August 3rd 2022 | Join us for a look back at some of our top moments celebrating our 100th Episode. You will laugh, you will cry, you will learn. Ok, so maybe no crying, but we guarantee you will laugh. Featured in Part 1 you will learn about the evolution of our show, and hear interview clips with David Kingsbury, Karen Kramer, and Jeanine Stanley:
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-100-the-clip-show-part-one
2) iBUG Today
September 21st 2022 | The President and Vice President join the National Federation of the Blind of SC for a presentation on IBUG today. We are a 501(C)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to promote the individual independence, social integration, and educational development of the blind through accessible technology training. iBUG has been serving the blind community since May 2011. In April 2021, iBUG was featured in the nationally renowned technology podcast Blind Abilities. We were also awarded the Dr. Jacob Bolotin Award on July 8, 2018, at the National Federation of the Blind National Convention in Orlando, Florida. The Dr. Jacob Bolotin Award honors individuals and organizations that are a positive force in the lives of blind people and whose work advances the goal of helping transform their dreams into reality. We provide technology training for the blind through virtual and in-person meetings. All of our training sessions are recorded:
https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/4OXdKRqRLtb
3) Jalapenos in the Oatmeal: Digesting Vision Loss | Hadley Presents: A Conversation with the Experts
September 30th 2022 | Blogger and social worker Jeff Flodin talks about his personal journey with vision loss and how his passion for helping people led him to blog about his experiences:
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/jalapenos-oatmeal-digesting-vision-loss
4) Marketplace Tech: For Blind People, Technology Can Offer A Way To Perceive Images Through Touch
September 30th 2022 | Chancey Fleet of the New York Public Library uses a graphic embosser to print tactile images for people who are blind or have low vision:
https://www.marketplace.org/shows/marketplace-tech/printer-tactile-images-blind-people/
5) Mosen at Large Episode 200: New Zealand Says Yes To Braille With An Uppercase B, Apple Feedback, Envision Glasses And More
October 1st 2022https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/cd7f9856/new-zealand-says-yes-to-braille-with-an-uppercase-b-apple-feedback-envision-glasses-and-more
6) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 95: Guest Appearances With Diane Ducharme The Blind Shell Phone Rep And Salih Kunduz
October 1st 2022 | In this episode we first talk about the news. We then interview Diane Ducharme, Program Manager, Blind Shell. And we hear from our sister site from Turkey. This episode can be found at:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqrzRN8sPMEHrapzVdkOemMl
7) Unmute Presents on ACB Community
October 4th 2022 | This is a recording of the Unmute Presents live call from Tuesday, October 4th 2022. ACB Community Unmute Presents is normally Marty Sobo and Michael Babcock, but Damashe steps in to assist Michael with answering your questions. We talked about iOS Updates and Sound Source on the Mac with controlling Audio Output on Windows. GPS apps and AIRA:
https://pnc.st/s/unmute-presents-on-acb-communi/2f667e0d/unmute-presents-october-4
8) Eyes on Success Episode 2240: NSITE Employment Services
October 5th 2022 | NSITE provides a full range of training resources, connections with potential employers, as well as internship opportunities for people who are visually impaired. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Marianne Haegeli, Program Director, NSITE Learning and Leadership, about the organization and how their services might benefit you:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202204.htm
9) That Real Blind Tech Show | Episode 100 | The Clip Show Part 3
October 5th 2022 | Join us for the third part in our epic five part Clip Show celebrating the 100th episode of That Real Blind Tech Show. In this part you will hear clips from Eddie Brill former warm up comic at the Late Show with David Letterman, Legendary Comedian Robert Klein, David Woodbridge, demos of HBO Max and Amazon Prime Video with audio description. Recaps from the ACB and NFB national conventions and a lot of laughs along the way:
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-100-the-clip-show-part-3
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Webinar, Training Course or Event for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-event or locate "Webinar / Training Course Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) U.S. Access Board Webinar: Accessible Amusement Rides
October 6th 2022 | 1PM PT, 2PM MT, 3PM CT, 4PM ET, 8PM GMT | Up and down, around and around! Amusement rides are enjoyed by many people, including those with disabilities. The 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design and the Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility Standards address accessibility for permanent amusement rides. The next webinar in the U.S. Access Board's free monthly series will take place October 6 from 2:30 - 4:00 p.m. (ET) and review scoping and technical provisions for amusement rides. For newly designed and constructed rides, scoping provisions provide the option to choose the type of access that is suitable for a particular ride or experience. Three options for providing accessibility onto a ride device include a wheelchair space on the ride, a ride seat designed for transfer, or a transfer device. This session will review the technical provisions for each type of access required on rides. Additionally, U.S. Access Board staff Bill Botten and Bobby Stinnette will address requirements for accessible routes, que lines, parking and passenger loading areas, signage, sales, and service counters. Visit Great Lakes ADA Center's AccessibilityOnline webpage for more information or to register. All webinars include video remote interpreting (VRI) and real-time captioning. Questions can be submitted in advance of the session or can be posed during the live webinar. Webinar attendees can earn continuing education credits. The webinar series is hosted by the ADA National Network in cooperation with the Board. Archived copies of previous Board webinars are available on the site:
https://www.accessibilityonline.org/ao/session/?id=111019
2) New Braille for Beginners Course Launch Event | The Braillists Foundation
October 10th 2022 | 11:30AM PT, 12:30PM MT, 1:30PM CT, 2:30PM ET, 6:30PM GMT | Since 2020, the Braillists Foundation has helped over 250 people learn braille through its revolutionary Braille for Beginners program. Taught remotely by expert braille tutors, it has increased the independence of dozens of blind and partially sighted adults by teaching them to read the entire braille alphabet, numbers and punctuation, and equipping them with the skills to develop their braille writing. We are now ready to lift the lid on the next phase of this pioneering project, which will allow us to reach hundreds more blind and partially sighted people who wish to learn to read braille by touch. We will be holding a special launch event for this new course during National Braille Week, and we'd love to see you there! At the event, you will hear first-hand from the people who put the course together, alongside past participants and established braille users. We will demonstrate the profound impact that braille has had on the lives of people who have learnt it and explain how this new incarnation of Braille for Beginners will work. Join us on Zoom at 7:00 PM BST on Monday 10 October and help us change the lives of blind and partially sighted people:
https://www.braillists.org/uncategorised/new-braille-for-beginners-course-coming-soon/
3) Windows Screen Readers: JAWS, NVDA & Narrator | Access Ingenuity
October 12th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Rachel Reeves, Marisa Church, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity for a demonstration and comparison of the screen readers available to use with the Microsoft Windows operating system. Learning Outcomes: Provide a basic overview of the three screen readers and their interfaces. Discuss some advantages and disadvantages of each screen reader and how they behave in different situations. Present a comparison of various factors with the three screen readers, such as price, optimal use cases, end user considerations, tech support, remote tools, availability of features, etc. Meeting ID: 844 5201 1049 | Passcode: 906065 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,84452011049#,,,,*906065# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84452011049?pwd=Y0g3dFVZUERQTUJEaEJnY2RjRXV3UT09#success
4) Accessibility Training | Ask Me Anything | TPGi
October 12th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenter: Brian Elton, Practice Manager, Training. Join TPGi for a live AMA event with Brian Elton. Brian is the manager of TPGi's training practice and has been with the company for just over three years after having spent the previous fifteen as a web developer and manager in various digital agencies in Toronto, Canada. He loves to share his experience and strong accessibility implementation knowledge with anyone who listens. Knowledge is power, and the reality is that most people working on creating inclusive experiences have learned about digital accessibility on the job. If you are unsure what accessibility training suits your team and are searching for answers to questions like: "What is accessibility training? Does my team need accessibility training?" Join us! Please bring your questions and get them answered during our live ask me anything session. Register:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-october-12-at-12pm-et-accessibility-training-ask-me-anything-ama/
5) Women's Empowerment Conference | NFB DC
October 14th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | The NFB of DC proudly presents our 7th Annual Blind Women's Empowerment Conference via zoom. There will be a panel of talented women speaking to you from their hearts to your hearts. Get ready to be dazzled, rejuvenated, and inspired to live the life you want. This is a free event and all Women Are Welcome! No Registration Necessary! The Zoom information will be sent out on the week of the conference. For more information contact Libra Robinson at (202) 427-3600 📱️ or email leelibra342@gmail.com 📧️
6) Believe You Can 3rd Annual Talent Show | Dancing Dots
October 15th 2022 | 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12PM GMT, 10/16 | Dancing Dots Presents: Believe You Can! Hosted by the Keystone Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania. In Honor of Blind Equality Achievement Month #BEAM, we bring you a night of amazing talent! This is our 3rd Annual Talent Show and we are excited for another wonderful year! Come see and hear wonderful performers within the blind and visually impaired communities from all over the world. Performances include singers, dancers, comedians, musicians, and more! Tickets: $10 for Individual, and $25 for a Watch Party. Questions? Contact: BelieveYouCanShow@gmail.com 📧️. Purchase Tickets or Make A Donation at:
http://believeyoucan.live/tickets/
7) Free Presentation | Introduction to Services Webinar | Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled
October 19th 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Join the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled on Wednesday, October 19th 2022 at 11:00 AM for an Introduction to Services Webinar. Geared to those new to the library's services, this 30-minute presentation will focus on the library's overall operation, qualifications for library service, and how to complete the application process. This program will be presented via Zoom. If you have any questions or require accommodation, please let the library know before October 12th 2022:
https://bit.ly/IntroLBPD
8) Meet the New RUBY 10 | ACVREP CE Approved | Access Ingenuity
October 19th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos from Access Ingenuity and Joe McDaniel from Vispero to as they demonstrate the advanced capabilities of the latest low vision solution from Freedom Scientific, the RUBY 10. The video magnifier has a 10-inch touchscreen and three dedicated cameras, and it can magnify letters, magazines, labels, and photos. The swing-out arm allows you to view items in your hand and write. When extended, it also enables full-page OCR. With a touch of a button, you can scan pages and have them read aloud to you. The third camera can see objects at a short distance, such as signs and menus on a wall. Users can utilize cutting-edge magnification features with industry-leading OCR to maximize the reading experience. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: How the RUBY 10 uses cutting-edge view modes not seen in any other device. Discover different uses of the RUBY 10. How the RUBY 10 differs from the other models. Why having OCR in a portable unit can be a game-changer. Meeting ID: 825 2253 8548 | Passcode: 942730 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,82522538548#,,,,*942730# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82522538548?pwd=M01GbVVEZGxqd1BYbXFjQjJPOVhYZz09#success
9) Intro to Mobile Accessibility Testing Tools | TPGi
October 25th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenters: Laurie Pagano, Senior Accessibility Engineer. 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 Senior 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:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-october-25-at-12pm-et-intro-to-mobile-accessibility-testing-tools/
10) JAWS: Getting Help & Accessing Existing Training Materials | Access Ingenuity
October 26th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Get to know the various tools, help menu options, and free training materials that already exist with JAWS. Join Rachel Reeves, Marisa Church, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity to discover ways you can get assistance with concepts, commands, exercises, additional web resources, and more. Learning Outcomes: Various help tools in JAWS, including Keyboard Help, Screen Sensitive Help, etc. Additional help menu options, including the manual, web resources, and free training. Free training web resources such as the Freedom Scientific Training YouTube channel, Free Webinars Training page and the Surf's Up Training website. Meeting ID: 886 5246 9982 | Passcode: 215449 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,88652469982#,,,,*215449# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88652469982?pwd=WnB6L21JbnZwZEpMMEJVM0N2K3VuUT09#success
11) Virtual Career Fair During Blind Equality Achievement Month | National Federation of the Blind
October 26th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Join us Wednesday, October 26, 2022, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Eastern via Zoom for our fall virtual career fair. There is no charge for employers or job seekers. The National Federation of the Blind career fairs are events for blind people seeking jobs to connect with employers, and an opportunity for employers to seek more talent for their teams. The career fairs may be in-person or virtual and provide additional trainings for developing skills such as interviewing tips. Join us for the next career fair. Registration required by October 12, 2022. For more information on the career fair, please contact Dick Davis, Employment Committee Chair, at dickblind@gmail.com 📧️, John Dubay, Employer Liaison, at jdubay@leadsatscale.com, or Rachel Kuntz at rkuntz@saavi.us 📧️. About National Federation of the Blind Employment Initiatives
With opportunities to compete in the workplace in terms of equality, blind people can achieve careers based on their dreams, talents, and abilities. The National Federation of the Blind connects working-age blind people with opportunities and resources to compete in the workplace on terms of equality. For more information, contact Maurice Peret, NOMCT, Coordinator of Career Mentoring & Employment Programs, at mperet@nfb.org or (410) 659-9314 📱️, extension 2350.
Registration for Job Seekers: https://nfb.org/form/career-fair-jobseeker-registration
Registration for Employers: https://nfb.org/form/career-fair-employer-registration
12) WordPress Accessibility Day
November 2nd 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | WordPress Accessibility Day is a free, 24-hour online event scheduled to start at 15:00 UTC (11:00 US Eastern, 8:00 US Pacific) on Wednesday, November 2nd. The conference will be held virtually so you can present from anywhere worldwide. Here are some other important things to know about speaking at WordPress Accessibility Day: We will provide an accessible speaking experience — the presentation platform will be screen reader-friendly, and we will have captions and sign language interpretation available for speakers as needed. You don't have to have speaking experience! We would love to have first-time speakers present and can support you in presenting as needed. You don't have to be an "expert" or have any special certifications. Anyone with something to share related to accessibility on the web or in WordPress is invited to apply. You can share your journey learning about accessibility or your experience as a person with a disability even if you don't think you've reached the end of that journey yet. Your topic doesn't have to be explicitly WordPress related. While we want some talks specific to WordPress and want to encourage developer-level presentations, not all talks need to be specific to WordPress. General website accessibility talks with broad applications for websites of all types and people of all levels of technical abilities are welcome. If you have an idea for a talk to share your knowledge or experiences about the intersection of WordPress and accessibility, we'd love to hear it!
https://wpaccessibility.day/weekend-plans-apply-to-speak-at-wp-accessibility-day/
13) AT Gifts for the Holidays | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Our annual look at gadgets and gizmos that will make your holiday season a successful one. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
14) ACB's 2022 Audio Description Awards Gala
November 29 2022 | The American Council of the Blind (ACB) proudly announces the second annual Audio Description Awards Gala on November 29, 2022. The Gala will once again celebrate outstanding achievements in audio description in media and expand awareness of its benefits. In recent years there has been enormous success in expanding audio description for audiences who are blind, low vision, or have other sensory disabilities that create barriers to full inclusion in visual media. "The Audio Description Awards Gala will celebrate the best of the best within the art and science of inclusive audio-described media," said Eric Bridges, ACB's Executive Director. "Together we will work to expand awareness of the transformative value that audio description brings to the lives of people with disabilities:"
https://acb.org/save-the-date-2022-AD-Awards
15) Blind Health Expo | The Accessible Pharmacy
December 2nd 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | The Accessible Pharmacy Blind Health Expo will be the largest virtual expo of healthcare information, products, services, and medication for individuals who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision. Join thousands of other attendees and register now for free!
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/blind-health-expo/
16) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
December 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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
✍ List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. Fill out this short form to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-buy-sell-trade or learn more on the Top Tech Tidbits website.
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: Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
➜ Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore: Touch Tomorrow in Today's Products
Serving blind people since 1999, we're a family-owned, forward-thinking company offering both tried-and-true and exciting new products for blind and low vision consumers. We design and carry self-voicing educational software, Braille supplies, talking gadgets, adapted household items, tactile card and board games, audible toys and gift ideas. Passionate about innovation, we've also created dozens of products from scratch when a suitable solution did not exist. Shop online at http://www.braillebookstore.com/ and enjoy fast, free shipping.
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: http://www.braillebookstore.com/ 🌐
Phone (Toll Free): (800) 987-1231 📱️
Fax (Toll Free): (800) 985-1231 ░
Email: Sales@BrailleBookstore.com 📧️
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time.
About: Welcome to Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore. We have been supplying products to blind people and their families since 1999. We offer thousands of Braille books, toys, games, kitchen aids, and talking products. We have unbeatable prices, fast, free shipping, and great customer service! We have tons of Braille books and cool products to choose from; so grab a cup of coffee, relax, and we'll give you a quick tour:
Products:
➜ Timekeeping
➜ Housewares
➜ On The Go
➜ Low Vision Products
➜ Toys and Games
➜ Gift Shop
➜ Braille Workshop
➜ Braille Bookstore
➜ Greeting Cards
➜ Copy Center
➜ Computer Lab
➜ Popular Products
➜ New Products
If you need some fresh ideas or have questions, you can also check out our Shopping Guides.
Sponsor: Fable
➜ Free and Accessible Training for the Tech Sector
Fable Pathways helps you gain the skills that you need to work in the tech sector with a free, accessible, and on-demand program. Learn from industry leaders with disabilities to take your career to the next level, like Kelly Ford, Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, who introduces GitHub and VS Code using a screen reader. Spend less time and energy trying to access courses with your assistive technology and focus on the content that matters to you, with Fable Pathways' accessible platform. Sign up today!
https://www.fablepathways.com/
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: https://fablepathways.com/ 🌐
Email: community@makeitfable.com 📧️
Phone: (888) 212-3532 📱️ Extension 810
About: Just like curb cuts help everyone get on and off sidewalks, designing digital products with accessibility in mind helps make the internet more accessible for everyone. Fable is an accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities. Fable connects people with disabilities to accessibility managers, user researchers, designers, and developers to build incredible and accessible user experiences.
Opportunities:
➜ Fable Pathways: Fable Pathways is a free skill development program for people with disabilities interested in working in the tech sector. Sign up to take your career to the next level. Courses include "Getting started in web development" taught by Kelly Ford, a screen reader user, and Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, and "Becoming a manager" taught by Fable's Head of Accessibility Innovation, Kate Kalcevich. Instructors are subject matter experts in their fields and have lived experience with disability. Pathways courses are free, self-paced and assistive-technology-friendly. Sign up now at https://fablepathways.com/.
➜ Fable's Community of Accessibility Testers: Work from home to contribute to real changes in digital accessibility and make the internet a more accessible place for everyone. Ever leave a website because it was too hard to navigate? Because it was missing button labels? Because it didn't respond to voice commands? Us too. Our community of testers who use assistive technologies work from home and contribute to real changes in digital accessibility with recognizable brands. Earn money to share your feedback on websites and apps of your favorite brands and work with companies that care. No experience required and no resume required. Fable is looking for assistive technology users in the USA and Canada to work the hours that they want, from the comfort of their own homes. Learn more at https://fablepathways.com/community/.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ Dolphin Friends Program
If you work for a non-profit, charity or society that provides services to people with visual impairments, we invite you to take part in our Dolphin Friends Program. Dolphin will outfit your center with assistive technology solutions that can benefit your clients who need to remain independent, are trying to sharpen their technology skills for employment and more. Learn more about becoming a Dolphin Friend:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/join-dolphin-friends
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Sponsor: Clusiv
➜ Looking For Blind Job-Seekers Wanting To Advance Their Salaries, Careers And Digital Accessibility For The Blind
Are you interested in learning new tech skills and working remotely while earning a competitive salary? At Clusiv.io we have created the world's first digitally accessible e-Learning platform built by the blind, and built for the blind. Visit the link provided and request Clusiv through your Vocational Rehab counselor for lifetime access to our e-Learning platform with courses such as Business Applications, JAWS, and more:
https://clusiv.io/
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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 from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Control the climate of your home independently! The VIP 3000 is a universal heating — cooling talking thermostat This accessible digital thermostat is specifically designed to offer audio playback of indoor temperature, temperature settings and programming instructions so blind and visually impaired users can independently & precisely manage their indoor comfort. Don't over pay. Read more at:
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 every day 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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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 Next Generation in Accessibility
Need to quickly access a distant computer with minimal fuss? Need to quickly convert image documents into readable text? Today's students and working professionals demand more of their technology. Employers expect more of their workforce. Pneuma Solutions is bridging the gap using the best in machine learning to connect you to your environment when you need it, how you need it. Give us a try, and experience accessibility on a whole new level:
https://pneumasolutions.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
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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Combine Learning And Gaming For A Fun Braille Adventure With Polly!
APH and Thinkerbell Labs are excited to introduce Polly, complete with customizable UEB lessons, songs, games, and stories! Join our waiting list to know when Polly is available:
https://www.aph.org/polly-wait-list/
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
➜ Announcing The Availability of the 60 Inch Locking Titanium Telescopic Cane
Why hasn't somebody thought to produce a locking telescopic cane in multiple sizes? For a whole lot of years! Why hasn't there been accurate talking medical products where the thermometer gives you the same reading twice? And why do we get devices marketed to us where the USB port has a life expectancy of months rather than years? Haven't figured out how to solve the last one yet, but the first two, we have. Call Barry at: (617) 969-7500 📱️, or by email at barry.scheur@gmail.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, affordable, 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
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: That Real Blind Tech Show
➜ That Real Blind Tech Show Episode 96: We Got More Resolutions, ACB Style!
It's a fully packed That Real Blind Tech show lair. Join us as we recap this year's ACB Resolutions. We chime in with all of our opinions about this year's resolutions, and as usual some hilarity ensues. You will not want to miss both AirPods issues that take place on this episode. We are adding do not listen to That Real Blind Tech show on the bus as we are not responsible for the stares you will receive when laughing or cackling like a lunatic!
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-96-we-got-more-resolutions-acb-style
Sponsor Since: August 11th 2022
Website: https://blindtechshow.com/ 🌐
Email: ThatRealBlindTechShow@gmail.com 📧️
Social: Facebook Page | Facebook Group | Twitter
Listen: Apple Podcasts | Audible | Google Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube
Hosts: Brian Fischler | Ed Plumacher | Allison Meloy | Jenine Stanley
Goals: We want to educate you on the latest tech for the blindness community. You'll learn what is worth keeping and what you need to return. Our goals are: To inform, inspire and educate our audience. Feature guests and products that bring you value. Continuously improve and deliver the best content.
About: A podcast discussing the good & bad of assistive technology for the low vision & totally blind. No longer focused on just Apple VoiceOver technology. That Real Blind Tech show covers all the fantastic talking tech and gadgets out there for the low vision and blindness community. Common topics include Apple's VoiceOver, JAWS, Microsoft Narrator, NVDA, Amazon Alexa and VoiceView, Google Assistant and Android. Basically, if a device can talk to you, we are going to be talking about it. That Real Blind Tech Show will not only educate you, but it will also make you laugh. Listeners are encouraged to not use treadmills or drink hot coffee while listening to our show, or accidents can and have occurred. Dishes have been broken while listening to That Real Blind Tech Show, and while we are responsible for the laughs, we are in no way responsible for the injuries or bills that pile up. Remember to keep it Real and also don't believe anything you hear on That Real Blind Tech Show.
Home | Episodes | Blog | Contact | Subscribe
Sponsor: Aira
➜ Webinar: Discovering Aira on the Blind Shell | September 27th 2022 at 2:00 PM ET
Join us for this monthly series featuring Diane Ducharme of BlindShell USA and Jenine Stanley of Aira as they discover all there is to know about using Aira on the BlindShell Classic 2 phone:
https://aira.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_g9O7k3RaR7mYYT1ODnm0cA
Sponsor Since: August 4th 2022
Website: https://aira.io/ 🌐
Download the App: Apple App Store | Google Play Store
Plans and Pricing: https://aira.io/pricing/
Phone: NA: +1.800.835.1934 📱️ | AU: +1.800.765.096 📱️ | UK: +0.800.046.5668 📱️ | NZ: +1.800.425.451 📱️
Text Message: NA: +1.858.242.4457 📲 | AU: +61.488.839.767 📲 | UK: +44.149.320.2474 📲
Email: support@aira.io 📧️
Social: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
About: Aira's mission is to remove barriers and make the world more accessible with visual interpreting.
We provide a live, human-to-human professional assistance service, an accommodation or productivity tool, that enhances independence by delivering on-demand, skilled and reliable visual interpreting for just about any task. Using the powerful combination of a camera and the Aira app on someone's device of 'choice', a professionally-trained agent will assist by visually interpreting what is in the camera's view or on screen, from describing to reading, from explaining to navigating - just about anything, safely and securely. Aira supports a growing range of devices including smart and tactile button phones, desktop computers and soon, wearables.
Whether you are involved in the work of business, the work of school or the work of life, Aira enhances everyday efficiency, engagement, and independence. Used by employees and customers of hundreds of organizations including airports, banks, the largest software companies, financial firms, retailers and universities, we invite you to join the community, access the Aira app today and try it for free.
https://aira.io/download-and-try-it/
Step One: Subscribe and Download. Pick the plan that lets you explore on your terms and on your time, sign up in a few minutes, and download the Aira app to your smartphone. Plans shown are for the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Add or cancel at any time.
Step Two: Connect with an Aira Agent. On the first call, connect with one of our certified, specially-trained Agents and learn how everything works.
Step Three: Real-time Assistance. At the touch of a button, Aira delivers instant access to visual information, when and where you want it.
Your Name Here
0 of 18 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are currently 0 of 18 packages available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, September 29, 2022 - Volume 878
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.
Subscribers: 7,480 Opt-In Subscribers were sent this issue via email. 143 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: No Sponsorship Packages Currently Available. Please Consider Joining Our Waiting List Today! This Issue Made Possible By 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., Double Tap TV, Clusiv, Dolphin Computer Access, Fable, Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore, Aira and That Real Blind Tech Show.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Tidbit for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Dictating On The iPhone | How To Get The Best Results | 9to5Mac (8.6% of all clicks.)
Dictating on the iPhone is, I would confidently estimate, something I do more than typing. Siri is also the main way I control my HomeKit devices. Any time I've mentioned either of these things, there are always comments from people saying how terrible their experience is with both, so I thought I'd share a few things I think make a difference. If you've just updated to iOS 16, now is a particularly good time to give dictation another go, as you can now easily mix-and-match speaking and typing:
https://9to5mac.com/2022/09/14/dictating-on-the-iphone/
B.) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: How To Create A Folder in Outlook (5.3% of all clicks.)
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/119.html
C.) Announcing BARD Mobile for iOS 2.0 (4.6% of all clicks.)
NLS has released version 2.0 of BARD Mobile for iOS. In this version, the BARD Website option is replaced by a new and powerful search engine that has the following abilities. The update is expected to be available by Friday, September 23rd 2022:
https://www.loc.gov/nls/?loclr=eabard
D.) New Accessibility Features in Windows 11 22 H2 | Paul Thurrott (4.5% of all clicks.)
While this article was published three months ago it applies to the newest version of Windows 11 which is now available. Windows 11 version 22 H2 includes three major new accessibility features. Unfortunately, all three are available in U.S. English only. They are:
https://www.thurrott.com/windows/windows-11/268756/new-in-22h2-accessibility
E.) Microsoft Windows 11 2022 Update: Every New Feature You Should Care About (4.0% of all clicks.)
The Windows 11 2022 update is here. Here we break down everything new:
https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/windows-11-2022-update-every-new-feature-you-should-care-about/#ftag=CAD590a51e
2) Premium Subscriber Updates
Premium Subscribers will receive their next issue of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits for July, August and September 2022 on Monday, October 3rd 2022. Premium Subscribers are entitled to all back issues, anytime they sign up. If you would like to receive a perfectly formatted and searchable Word Document with each of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits of the last 3 months listed neatly within it, please consider signing up here today for just $1 a month:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/premium-subscribers.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Weekly Scramble
The Top Tech Tidbits Weekly Scramble presents a single word or phrase related to adaptive or assistive technology whose letters have been scrambled. Can you put the letters back in the proper order to determine this week's word? Check your work next week where we'll provide the answer along with a new challenge.
LAST WEEK'S SCRAMBLE: IDIEMNTOEAR = REMEDIATION
NEW SCRAMBLE: ALELRBBER SSIEOM = (Note: This scramble is two words. The included space is not in the proper place.)
4) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: How To Create A To-Do Task In Outlook
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/122.html
5) Screen Gestures For Use With Dolphin's Free EasyReader App
Courtesy of Dolphin Computer Access:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/121.html
6) Aira Seeks Android Users for Closed Beta Testing
Aira is excited to announce that we are working on improving our mobile app across both iOS and Android devices. As our apps evolve, we have invested in technology that allows us to write features once and have them available on multiple device types, which means for you, the pace of updates and new functionality will be more consistent. We are seeking individuals, particularly Android users, who are interested in participating in a closed Beta. We need people who are excited to try new technologies, enjoy giving feedback, and are not discouraged when things aren't working as expected. The closed beta will begin sometime in the next month. To apply for consideration, please complete the form at:
https://bit.ly/airabeta
7) Everything Amazon Just Announced At Its Annual Hardware Event: A Kindle You Can Write On, A New TV, Four New Echo's And More
Amazon just announced a bunch of new hardware and software products and services:
https://www.wired.com/story/everything-amazon-announced-september-2022/
8) Describing Yourself in Meetings Survey Results and a New Alt Text Survey | Karlen Communications
The results of the survey I conducted about describing yourself during meetings or conference sessions are up on my website:
Article: https://www.karlencommunications.com/PDFsurvey.html
Tagged PDF: https://bit.ly/3RkyjzM
I've also launched a new iteration of the Alt Text Survey that I conducted last year. The 2022 version is now here: https://forms.office.com/r/QBLTwR5kg3
9) Bookshare Reader
The new Bookshare web reader was launched. Bookmarking and picking up from where you left off are some of the enhancements. This will make it easier to read Bookshare content from any computer. Note that other versions of the Bookshare Reader, including for smart speakers is coming later:
https://www.bookshare.org/cms/get-started/bookshare-reader
10) Intel's Unison App On Windows Will Let You Text And Send Files From Your Android Device Or iPhone
This app will allow users to access certain features on their smartphone from their Windows computer. It will be available on 12th and 13th generation Intel based computers. We hope it is accessible:
https://9to5google.com/2022/09/27/intel-unison-app-text-from-windows/
11) Exploring Whether Dual-Frequency GPS On The iPhone 14 Pro Makes A Meaningful Difference To Real-World Navigation
This post by David Goodwin describes some of the potential advantages dual-frequency GPS could provide for users of popular navigation apps for mobility. Results did not bear that out currently:
https://applevis.com/blog/exploring-whether-dual-frequency-gps-iphone-14-pro-makes-meaningful-difference-real-world
12) Google TV Will Curate Movies With Audio Descriptions In Accessibility Push
Google will curate movies available for purchase with audio description on Google TV through The Assistant:
https://9to5google.com/2022/09/08/google-tv-audio-descriptions/
13) How To Enable The New Power On And Off Sounds For iPhone 14
Cool Blind Tech brings us instructions for enabling and disabling startup sounds on iOS making it easier for blind and low vision users to know when their phone boots or shuts down:
https://coolblindtech.com/how-to-enable-the-new-power-on-and-off-sounds-for-iphone-14/
14) UX Win: Otter Basic Plan Updates Message | Deborah Edwards-Onoro
I've been a fan of Otter.ai, the speech to text web-based application which creates audio files and transcripts, for the past few years. It's one of my top recommendations to people looking to capture meeting notes, add transcripts to podcasts, or captions to videos. And for user experience researchers to record and transcribe user research interviews and usability test sessions. Having said that, you always want to edit autogenerated transcript. They're not 100% accurate. What I like about Otter.ai:
https://www.lireo.com/ux-win-otter-basic-plan-updates/
15) Enhancements in JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion 2023 Public Beta 2
https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/PublicBeta
16) Cloudflare Takes a Stab at a Captcha That Doesn't Suck
The internet infrastructure company has an alternative tool to check whether you're human — and it doesn't force you to pick out buses in tiny boxes:
https://www.wired.com/story/cloudflare-captcha-turnstile/?redirectURL=/story/cloudflare-captcha-turnstile/
17) Reminder: The Internet Archive Offers Free Access to Books For People With Qualifying Print Disabilities | Tech-VI List | David Goldfield
While the Internet Archive may not be the easiest page to navigate learning how to access it is well worth it as you will surely find content available from the site that may not be available elsewhere. If you are a user of BARD, Bookshare or the Ace Portal (Ontario) you can use your password from any of those sites to qualify your Internet Archive account for this service:
https://archive.org/details/printdisabled&tab=about
18) Windows 11 2022 Update: The Ultimate Resource Guide
Windows 11 version 22H2 has arrived, and here's what you need to know to get started:
https://www.windowscentral.com/software-apps/windows-11/windows-11-2022-update-the-ultimate-resource-guide
19) RIM Versus JAWS Tandem and NVDA Remote | Web Friendly Help
Pneuma Solutions has just released Remote Incident Manager. What is it? This is a software package that allows you to remotely control another computer. The way this is done is simple. The controller and the target both choose a keyword to type into an edit box, then the controller is connected. You can also setup unattended access, meaning that someone wanting help can allow for the tech support to connect automatically without needing to type a keyword first. This is the only remote-control package that is completely accessible to assistive technology users, without requiring the use of a specific access technology product. There are plenty of remote-control software packages out there. I've tried many, and I've always been sorely disappointed:
https://webfriendlyhelp.com/rim-versus-jaws-tandem-and-nvda-remote/
20) EasyReader Premium Launch | Dolphin
The EasyReader App remains free to download and use. You can browse, download and read books from over 60 accessible libraries around the world. EasyReader Premium offers additional features within the EasyReader App — these include synchronization, access to Google Classrooms files and use on Mac — so you can read and learn anywhere! Our library partnerships continue to flourish, and we are proud that EasyReader App has been inducted into the AppleVis Hall of Fame by a global community of blind and partially sighted app users. We continue to develop EasyReader App, so people with visual impairments or neurodiverse conditions such as dyslexia have better access to books and reading, in ways that suit their vision and reading preferences:
http://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/news?id=524
21) Apple Releases iOS 16.0.2 With Bug Fixes for VoiceOver Being Unusable After Rebooting, Copy/Paste, and More
Apple has released iOS 16.0.2 to the public. According to the release notes, iOS 16.0.2 resolves a bug which could cause VoiceOver to become unusable after rebooting your iPhone. The full list of fixes mentioned in the release notes are:
https://www.applevis.com/blog/apple-releases-ios-1602-bug-fixes-voiceover-being-unusable-after-rebooting-copypaste-more
22) Product Review Of Seeing AI
Seeing AI uses a combination of technologies to narrate text, people, objects, and scenes for blind or visually impaired kids. Main channels include a short text reader, document reader, scanner, and person identifier. Experimental channels include the scene, color, and handwriting readers. There are tutorials for every channel, but the tool's not hard to figure out. Just choose a channel, point your device at what you'd like to hear narrated, and tap the screen or wait for the capture:
https://www.thetechedvocate.org/product-review-of-seeing-ai/
23) Dynamic Tactile Device (DTD) Refreshable Braille and Tactile Graphics Display Fact Sheet | APH
The Dynamic Tactile Device (DTD) is a refreshable braille and tactile graphics display capable of showing traditional braille and tactile graphics on the same tactile surface. DTD is not its final name and just a working title. The final name will be announced closer to launch:
https://www.aph.org/dtd-fact-sheet/
24) Feelif Pro Tablet Fact Sheet | Irie AT
Untested by Top Tech Tidbits we provide this link for informational purposes only. Discover a whole new digital world of pictures, shapes and colors with a special tactile grid, vibrations and sounds. It only takes minutes to learn the basics:
https://irie-at.com/product/feelif-pro/?mc_cid=230c13bb05
25) Remixing Linux For Blind And Visually Impaired Users
Fegora, a Fedora project, is an unofficial Linux distribution aimed at visually impaired users:
https://opensource.com/article/22/9/linux-visually-impaired-users
26) Scientists Develop 3D Printed Glasses With The Potential To Cure Color Blindness
Researchers at Khalifa University have come up with a set of 3D printed glasses that could be capable of curing Color Vision Deficiency (CVD) disorders:
https://3dprintingindustry.com/news/scientists-develop-3d-printed-glasses-with-the-potential-to-cure-color-blindness-214927/
27) Recording: Airacast Explorer Call September 2022 Featuring Envision Glasses
Did you miss the Explorer Call? Here it is from the Airacast feed:https://pnc.st/s/airacast/c75d808b/explorer-call-september-2022-featuring-envision-glasses
28) Software Programmer Develops App To Help Bus Drivers See Blind Passengers
Software programmer Cassie Hames is a regular bus user, and is also legally blind. To make it easier to hail public buses, she's developing an app that would trigger an alert to the driver:
https://coolblindtech.com/software-programmer-develops-app-to-help-bus-drivers-see-blind-passengers/
29) Recording | Blindness and Diabetes Webinar: Dexom and FreeStyle Libre | Accessible Pharmacy Services For The Blind | September 23rd 2022 | YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JRK6KTgaBHs
30) Recording: Unmute Presents on ACB Community S1 E7 | September 27th 2022
This is a recording of the ACB Community Call Held on Tuesdays at 10AM PT, 1PM Eastern. Michael Babcock and Damashe Thomas answer questions that people have and the differences between the Vocaster with Loopback and Be My Eyes. Questions about cables and more also come up in this hour long episode:
https://pnc.st/s/unmute-presents-on-acb-communi
31) An RNIB Guide To Braille Displays For Blind And Partially Sighted People
An RNIB guide to braille displays, how they work, and how they are used by blind and partially sighted people:
https://www.rnib.org.uk/living-with-sight-loss/assistive-aids-and-technology/everyday-tech/reading-and-writing/an-rnib-guide-to-braille-displays-for-blind-and-partially-sighted-people/
32) An RNIB Guide To Accessible Televisions
Most mainstream televisions available today have accessibility features and tools built into them which help to make these devices accessible for people who are blind or partially sighted:
https://www.rnib.org.uk/living-with-sight-loss/assistive-aids-and-technology/everyday-tech/tv-audio-and-gaming/accessible-televisions/
33) An Invitation to Explore APH CareerConnect | APH | VisionAware
October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), a time we at the APH ConnectCenter focus on the important roles individuals who are blind or low vision possess in our workforce. If you are an older individual who is blind or low vision, your contributions to the workforce are valued! If you're interested in re-entering the workforce or mentoring those in the workforce, we invite you to visit APHCareerConnect:
https://visionaware.org/blog/visionaware-blog/an-invitation-to-explore-aph-careerconnect/
34) Maryland State Library Agency Tech Newsletter | Fall 2022 Edition
Including: Holiday Gift Ideas | Learning VoiceOver | The Varsity Network App | A Day In The Life Of An Amazon Echo Revisited | Events | Most Recent TUG Meeting:
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDLIBRARY/bulletins/32c7fcd
35) Hadley Headlines for September 2022
Including: Hidden Gems | What's New | Learner Spotlight | Discussion Groups | Hadley Hint:
https://bit.ly/3UOE8Im
36) TPGi Accessibility Updates for September 2022
Including: Spotlight on ARC Provider Package | Next Month: Attend #a11yTO! | An Argument Against CSS Opacity | Testing with Speech Recognition | Improve your accessibility testing skills with FREE ARC training sessions:
https://bit.ly/3E5Lbqi
➜ Press Releases and Other News
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Press Release or Other News item for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) American Foundation for the Blind Announces Free Digital Inclusion Toolkits for School Administrators, Teachers, Families, and Students
The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) has announced its Digital Inclusion Toolkits, a set of free resources to create, encourage, and advocate for more digitally inclusive classrooms. Designed for school administrators, teachers, families, and students who are blind or have low vision, the toolkits include planning tools for educators and administrators; information and resources for families and students with visual impairments that are designed to help them connect with others; advocacy tips; and lists of support organizations, hotlines, and other helpful resources:
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/american-foundation-for-the-blind-announces-free-digital-inclusion-toolkits-for-school-administrators-teachers-families-and-students-301634625.html
2) San Francisco LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Names Sharon Giovinazzo Chief Executive Officer
The San Francisco-based LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired has announced that it has named Sharon Giovinazzo as its new Chief Executive Officer. Founded in 1902, the LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired is one of the nation's largest and most established blindness organizations, providing comprehensive education, training, and advocacy for the community:
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/san-francisco-lighthouse-for-the-blind-and-visually-impaired-names-sharon-giovinazzo-chief-executive-officer-301633593.html
3) U.S. Access Board Seeks Public Comment on Accessibility Guidelines for Self-Service Transaction Machines
Touchscreen kiosks and other types of self-service transaction machines (SSTMs) are a common feature in places of public accommodation, government offices, and other buildings and facilities, allowing users to independently conduct a range of transactions and functions. The U.S. Access Board has issued an advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) on supplemental accessibility guidelines for different types of SSTMs, including electronic self-service kiosks, for persons with disabilities. The Board seeks comments on accessibility related to the various types of SSTMs, use and design of SSTMs, location of SSTMs, and economic impacts on small business, non-profit, and governmental entities in the implementation of accessible SSTMs:
https://www.access-board.gov/news/2022/09/27/u-s-access-board-seeks-public-comment-on-accessibility-guidelines-for-self-service-transaction-machines/
4) U.S. Midterm Candidate Websites Lacking In Basic Accessibility, Blind Charity Says
Significant swathes of voters with sight loss are already contending with access barriers when it comes to participating in the U.S. midterm elections due to take place in November 2022. According to research just published by Miami Lighthouse for the Blind, which looked at eight midterm races in five key swing states, major access barriers prevail across the 16 candidate websites under review:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/gusalexiou/2022/09/27/us-midterm-candidate-websites-lacking-in-basic-accessibility-blind-charity-says/?sh=672d7cd67c75
5) Copyright Act | Big Court Win For Visually Impaired | YouTube |
Section27 and Blind SA are celebrating a landmark judgment. The High Court ruled the Copyright Act is unconstitutional. It blocks books from being converted to accessible formats for the blind without permission of the copyright holder:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bOviyuZCMiY
6) Guide Dogs for the Blind and American Foundation for the Blind Release Research Study Findings
Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB) and the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) have announced the findings of The Role of Guide Dogs in 2022 and Beyond, a joint, two-year research study to examine the long-term outlook for guide dog use in the United States and Canada:
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220922005306/en/Guide-Dogs-for-the-Blind-and-American-Foundation-for-the-Blind-Release-Research-Study-Findings
7) Right to Know Week 2022 | OIPC Launches Accessible "Know Your Access Rights" Video
The Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner (OIPC) is inviting the public to "Know Your Rights" during the annual Right to Know (RTK) Week, held September 26th to October 2nd. RTK Week is promoted each year internationally evolving from International Right to Know Day, September 28th, which has been marked around the world since 2002:
https://www.gov.nl.ca/releases/2022/oipc/0926n02/
8) People Are Really Putting Aside Health And Wellbeing To Try And Manage Costs
Blind and partially sighted people are particularly vulnerable during the cost of living crisis, charities have warned:
https://www.aop.org.uk/ot/industry/charity/2022/09/26/people-are-really-putting-aside-health-and-wellbeing-to-try-and-manage-costs
9) A Global First As Aunt Bessie's Brings State-Of-The-Art Technology To The Freezer Aisle To Assist Blind And Partially Sighted People
Aunt Bessie's is bringing a first to the freezer aisle, by teaming up with RNIB (Royal National Institute of Blind People) and NaviLens to support people with sight loss when shopping and preparing frozen food:
https://www.essexmagazine.co.uk/2022/09/a-global-first-as-aunt-bessies-brings-state-of-the-art-technology-to-the-freezer-aisle-to-assist-blind-and-partially-sighted-people/
10) Foundation Fighting Blindness Launches #ShareYourVision Campaign for October Blindness Awareness Month
The Foundation Fighting Blindness, the world's leading organization committed to finding treatments and cures for blinding retinal diseases, launches a new social media campaign, #ShareYourVision. The new campaign coincides with October's Blindness Awareness Month:
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/foundation-fighting-blindness-launches-shareyourvision-campaign-for-october-blindness-awareness-month-301630205.html
11) Netflix's Head Of Accessibility Grew Up With Deaf Parents, And It Made Her More Aware That TV Subtitles Can Be Terrible
It was only when she watched TV at a friend's house as a child that Heather Dowdy realized people didn't always use subtitles. Dowdy, who was hired as Netflix's first director of product accessibility last year, used to watch shows like "Family Matters" at home when she grew up in Chicago in the 1990s. The subtitles would always be on, because her parents are deaf. "That's what my parents automatically had," she told Insider. This experience shapes her job at Netflix, where she is tasked with making the platform more accessible to people with disabilities:
https://www.businessinsider.com/netflix-accessibility-head-on-growing-up-with-deaf-parents-2022-9
12) How Disability Is Informing Better Products-And Better Organizations
It wasn't so long ago that businesses were operating in what Jenny Lay-Flurrie calls the "dark ages." As Microsoft's chief accessibility officer, and someone who describes herself as "profoundly deaf," Lay-Flurrie said that the concerns and needs of people with disabilities were almost completely ignored by the business world:
https://www.fastcompany.com/90792839/how-disability-is-informing-better-products-and-better-organizations
13) Asda Expands In-Store Navigation Trial For Blind Customers
Asda is set to expand its trial of the GoodMaps smartphone app which helps blind or partially sited customers to navigate around the Big 4 grocer's stores:
https://www.grocerygazette.co.uk/2022/09/22/asda-navigation-tool-blind/
14) 'First-Of-Its-Kind' Program To Train Visually Impaired As Digital Accessibility Testers
A "first-of-its-kind" workforce development program has launched in North Carolina to train people who are blind or visually impaired to become digital accessibility testers:
https://wraltechwire.com/2022/09/22/first-of-its-kind-program-to-train-visually-impaired-as-digital-accessibility-testers/
15) Disney On Ice Treat Aims To Make Show More Magical For Visually Impaired Children
A group of children with sight impairments will get to enjoy a whole new experience when much-loved show Disney on Ice comes to Newcastle in December:
https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/whats-on/family-kids-news/disney-ice-treat-aims-make-25091010
16) Mom Captures Video Of Visually Impaired Son Getting Chance To "See" Firefighter By Feeling
A mom captured a video of her visually impaired son getting the chance to "see" a firefighter by feeling the equipment and uniform with his hands. "His favorite part was spending time with this patient fire fighter who allowed Junie to feel all over his uniform and gear, touch whatever he wanted, hear the sounds his equipment made, and answered all of his questions!" the mother wrote in part on Facebook:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BpHc1m4VuMA
17) Asda Expands Trial Of UK's First Indoor Navigation Tool For Blind And Partially Sighted People
Asda is expanding its trial of new technology which will make it easier for blind and partially sighted customers to navigate their way through the store whilst they do their shopping:
https://corporate.asda.com/newsroom/2022/09/21/asda-expands-trial-of-uks-first-indoor-navigation-tool-for-blind-and-partially-sighted-people
18) Elon Among Dozens Of Universities Sued Over Website Accessibility
Plaintiff claims the university, athletics websites are not accessible for blind, visually-impaired consumers:
https://www.elonnewsnetwork.com/article/2022/09/elon-among-dozens-of-universities-sued-over-website-accessibility
➜ Surveys
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related survey for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-survey or locate "Survey Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Surveys: From APH
Closes: Ongoing Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
2) Survey: Robotics Institute at OSU is Testing A New Navigation Aid, The Optiband
Closes: October 1st 2022 The Robotics Institute at OSU is testing a new handheld navigation aid, the Optiband, which uses vibrations to help a user understand their environment better. The Optiband was designed with a blind stakeholder to be more than an obstacle avoidance device, and helps users gain spatial and depth perception. We are interested in talking to BVI persons about our device, and whether or not they are willing to test out a model of the device. We are running a study and are actively recruiting participants, to whom we will provide a device as well as cash compensation for their time. If you are interested or have any questions/concerns, please send an email to: bontulaa@oregonstate.edu 📧️ or send a text to (541)-360-9491 📱️.
3) Survey: Aira Seeks Android Users for Closed Beta Testing
Closes: October 13th 2022Aira is excited to announce that we are working on improving our mobile app across both iOS and Android devices. As our apps evolve, we have invested in technology that allows us to write features once and have them available on multiple device types, which means for you, the pace of updates and new functionality will be more consistent. We are seeking individuals, particularly Android users, who are interested in participating in a closed Beta. We need people who are excited to try new technologies, enjoy giving feedback, and are not discouraged when things aren't working as expected. The closed beta will begin some time in the next month. To apply for consideration, please complete the form at:
https://bit.ly/airabeta
4) Survey: Alt Text | Karlen Communications
Closes: October 13th 2022I've launched a new iteration of the Alt Text Survey that I conducted last year. The 2022 version is now here: https://forms.office.com/r/QBLTwR5kg3
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Podcast Episode for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-podcast-episode or locate "Podcast Episode Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Mosen at Large Episode 199: Meet The Hable One, And David Andrews Remembers The Early Days Of Assistive Computer Technology
September 24th 2022https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/01f71692/meet-the-hable-one-and-david-andrews-remembers-the-early-days-of-assistive-computer-technology
2) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 94: Safety, Emergency, SOS, Medical Info, Etc.
September 24th 2022 | In this episode, we let users know we are nearing our 100th episode. We talk about SOS, emergency, and medical info. We have a new CSR episode. We also talk about Chrome flags in which we force websites into dark mode:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqrPSzvucItB-zoXtbRwd-mc
3) Blind Abilities Episode 893: Tech Abilities: The School And Work Grind, Apples Galore, Twitter Alt Text Reminder, Amazon Announces Event, Apple 1, Block That Message, The Fart That Went Public And More Tech Tidbits To Boot!
September 26th 2022 | Serina Gilbert, Seyoon Choi and Jeff Thompson gather in the Blind Abilities Studio after the Apple Launch and dive right into the latest news and announcements from the 4 corners of the Earth. Yes, we record and then receive as like any other time, the Apples arrive and it is all good in the orchard as more apples will soon fall from the tree in this never ending routine of gadgetry. However, there is a lot more tech tidbits out there and we are bringing it. Here are some links to the topics we brought to the table,. But, there is also a nationally publicized fart, yes, fart and we brought it along as well. We would love to hear from you! See all the links and topics on the website and wherever you listen to the podcast! Send us an email at: info@BlindAbilities.com 📧️ or give us a call and leave us some feedback at (612) 367-6093 📱️. Listen here:
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7644
4) Eyes on Success Episode 2239: Images from the Webb Telescope
September 28th 2022 | If you can't see the image, you can still experience it. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Timothy Rhue II, principal informal education specialist, and Claire Blome, Principal Science Writer and author of some of the descriptions, both of the Space Telescope Science Institute, about how images from the James Webb Telescope are being made accessible to everyone:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202239.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Webinar, Training Course or Event for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-event or locate "Webinar / Training Course Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Train-The-Trainers Opportunity: Supporting Consumers Who Are Deafblind with Bluetooth QWERTY Keyboards on iOS | Technology Research and Innovation Center (TRIC) | Cost: $50.00
September 29th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | The Technology Research and Innovation Center (TRIC) announces Supporting Your Consumers Who Are Deafblind Using QWERTY Keyboards on iOS VoiceOver on an iPhone has been a popular access solution for many years. Many users also include accessories to utilize the operating system (iOS) more comfortably. Consumers who use speech, individuals who use a Mantis Q40 and for those who prefer typing on a QWERTY keyboard instead of a braille one, QWERTY keyboards often assist them in using their iOS device more efficiently. Demonstrations will be provided. Updated for iOS 16, topics in this seminar include: Reasons why a Deafblind individual may benefit from a Bluetooth keyboard over other access methods. Settings to consider when working with different parts of the Deafblind population. How to set up customized keyboard commands and why this may be necessary. On-screen sign language interpretation, voice over and captioning will be provided. This webinar will be taught by Scott Davert, an expert in the area of Deafblind technology. Time: 1 to 3 PM EDT. Cost: $50.00. CEU's available - please request when you register. Contact Information: If you have any questions about the webinar or registration, please contact us at: PLD@hknc.org 📧️. Please use this link to register and pay:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_7tSKJ78DRRilAXUqh31Ozw
2) iOS 16 Review And Editing Voice Memos | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
October 1st 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Every year we look for accessibility improvements in our i-devices. See what is new in this latest version of the Apple operating system. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
3) Byte Size Training Technology
October 3rd 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | The Taking A Byte Out Of Technology event is where I will be discussing the assistive technology training services that Byte Size Training Tech offers:
https://fb.me/e/3DPB9FOkI
4) Ensuring That The World's Knowledge Is Accessible By All: Canadian Blind Scholars Share Their Experiences Of Journal And Other Digital Content
October 3rd 2022 | The Canadian Research Knowledge Network (CRKN) and its members are critical partners in the work of ensuring access to the world's knowledge for a diversity of students and faculty with print disabilities. The 2016 CRKN model license was a step in the right direction. However, unless principles of accessibility are intentionally centred at all stages of CRKN's activities - from procurement of academic journal subscriptions and eBooks, to negotiation with vendors, and the digitization of existing and often historic print resources - CRKN members may actually create and sustain accessibility barriers for disabled readers. In this round table presentation, blind scholars from diverse academic fields of study at Canadian universities and at various stages of our academic careers will highlight why strong and reciprocal community collaboration and deliberate relationship building are essential for CRKN to ensure its activities support digital accessibility. The panel will demonstrate how blind scholars access journal articles and eBooks with screen readers and braille displays. We will describe the everyday access barriers we face when we try to engage with the journal articles and other digital materials we require to complete and teach courses and undertake a diversity of research projects. We will also describe the significant personal impacts of encountering inaccessible library materials. Finally, we will offer our perspectives on practical solutions that are grounded in an assertion that accessibility is necessarily facilitated by a collective commitment across CRKN members and a collaborative relationship that centers diverse disabled expertise in all aspects of this work:
https://www.crkn-rcdr.ca/en/conference/2022-crkn-conference-strength-community/program/ensuring-worlds-knowledge-accessible-all
5) Q&A: Tech for Blind and Low Vision Students | Thomas Pocklington Trust
October 4th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Calling all students. Maybe you have started the new academic year. Or university may be just in sight. But have you got all the tech you need to succeed? Do you know about built-in accessibility features that could make your life easier when studying? Join Thomas Pocklington Trust (TPT) for this tech Q&A webinar for students who are blind or low vision. We will have a panel of experts including education professionals, Student Voices volunteers and members of our education and tech teams. We are here to answer your questions! How can you make the most of the tech you are already using? Perhaps you want to know what built-in accessibility features you might find on college or university library computers. How can a screen reader help with accessing course textbooks? Our expert panel will bring a wealth of assistive technology experience from across school, college and university environments in the UK. If we can't answer your question ourselves, we will know who to ask:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_kqYMhy_2QwaH7gDMdynQUQ
6) Outlook Calendar, Contacts & Meetings with JAWS Using Speech & Braille | ACVREP CE Approved | Access Ingenuity
October 5th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Rachel Reeves, Marisa Church, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity with Joe McDaniel from Vispero to explore more tips on using Microsoft Outlook with JAWS while on a PC, with a QWERTY keyboard, Focus braille display, and the ElBraille. Previously, we presented working with emails using Microsoft Outlook and JAWS. This presentation will cover the other features of Microsoft Outlook, such as the calendar, contacts, tasks, notes, and starting a meeting. Even if you did not attend the previous session on Outlook email, this one is still beneficial. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: How to use keyboard commands to quickly switch among the various Outlook features such as mail, calendar, contacts, tasks, and notes. Work with keyboard commands to use the calendar, such as changing the calendar view and creating various appointments and meetings. Explore other Outlook features, such as contacts, tasks, and notes. Meeting ID: 815 1257 3200 | Passcode: 008291 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,81512573200#,,,,*008291# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose). Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81512573200?pwd=SGVQUEh6RytiZ2lINWZrZWFRbzlQdz09#success
7) U.S. Access Board Webinar: Accessible Amusement Rides
October 6th 2022 | 1PM PT, 2PM MT, 3PM CT, 4PM ET, 8PM GMT | Up and down, around and around! Amusement rides are enjoyed by many people, including those with disabilities. The 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design and the Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility Standards address accessibility for permanent amusement rides. The next webinar in the U.S. Access Board's free monthly series will take place October 6 from 2:30 - 4:00 p.m. (ET) and review scoping and technical provisions for amusement rides. For newly designed and constructed rides, scoping provisions provide the option to choose the type of access that is suitable for a particular ride or experience. Three options for providing accessibility onto a ride device include a wheelchair space on the ride, a ride seat designed for transfer, or a transfer device. This session will review the technical provisions for each type of access required on rides. Additionally, U.S. Access Board staff Bill Botten and Bobby Stinnette will address requirements for accessible routes, que lines, parking and passenger loading areas, signage, sales, and service counters. Visit Great Lakes ADA Center's AccessibilityOnline webpage for more information or to register. All webinars include video remote interpreting (VRI) and real-time captioning. Questions can be submitted in advance of the session or can be posed during the live webinar. Webinar attendees can earn continuing education credits. The webinar series is hosted by the ADA National Network in cooperation with the Board. Archived copies of previous Board webinars are available on the site:
https://www.accessibilityonline.org/ao/session/?id=111019
8) Windows Screen Readers: JAWS, NVDA & Narrator | Access Ingenuity
October 12th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Rachel Reeves, Marisa Church, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity for a demonstration and comparison of the screen readers available to use with the Microsoft Windows operating system. Learning Outcomes: Provide a basic overview of the three screen readers and their interfaces. Discuss some advantages and disadvantages of each screen reader and how they behave in different situations. Present a comparison of various factors with the three screen readers, such as price, optimal use cases, end user considerations, tech support, remote tools, availability of features, etc. Meeting ID: 844 5201 1049 | Passcode: 906065 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,84452011049#,,,,*906065# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84452011049?pwd=Y0g3dFVZUERQTUJEaEJnY2RjRXV3UT09#success
9) Accessibility Training | Ask Me Anything | TPGi
October 12th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenter: Brian Elton, Practice Manager, Training. Join TPGi for a live AMA event with Brian Elton. Brian is the manager of TPGi's training practice and has been with the company for just over three years after having spent the previous fifteen as a web developer and manager in various digital agencies in Toronto, Canada. He loves to share his experience and strong accessibility implementation knowledge with anyone who listens. Knowledge is power, and the reality is that most people working on creating inclusive experiences have learned about digital accessibility on the job. If you are unsure what accessibility training suits your team and are searching for answers to questions like: "What is accessibility training? Does my team need accessibility training?" Join us! Please bring your questions and get them answered during our live ask me anything session. Register:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-october-12-at-12pm-et-accessibility-training-ask-me-anything-ama/
10) Meet the New RUBY 10 | ACVREP CE Approved | Access Ingenuity
October 19th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos from Access Ingenuity and Joe McDaniel from Vispero to as they demonstrate the advanced capabilities of the latest low vision solution from Freedom Scientific, the RUBY 10. The video magnifier has a 10-inch touchscreen and three dedicated cameras, and it can magnify letters, magazines, labels, and photos. The swing-out arm allows you to view items in your hand and write. When extended, it also enables full-page OCR. With a touch of a button, you can scan pages and have them read aloud to you. The third camera can see objects at a short distance, such as signs and menus on a wall. Users can utilize cutting-edge magnification features with industry-leading OCR to maximize the reading experience. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: How the RUBY 10 uses cutting-edge view modes not seen in any other device. Discover different uses of the RUBY 10. How the RUBY 10 differs from the other models. Why having OCR in a portable unit can be a game-changer. Meeting ID: 825 2253 8548 | Passcode: 942730 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,82522538548#,,,,*942730# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82522538548?pwd=M01GbVVEZGxqd1BYbXFjQjJPOVhYZz09#success
11) Intro to Mobile Accessibility Testing Tools | TPGi
October 25th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenters: Laurie Pagano, Senior Accessibility Engineer. 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 Senior 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:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-october-25-at-12pm-et-intro-to-mobile-accessibility-testing-tools/
12) JAWS: Getting Help & Accessing Existing Training Materials | Access Ingenuity
October 26th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Get to know the various tools, help menu options, and free training materials that already exist with JAWS. Join Rachel Reeves, Marisa Church, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity to discover ways you can get assistance with concepts, commands, exercises, additional web resources, and more. Learning Outcomes: Various help tools in JAWS, including Keyboard Help, Screen Sensitive Help, etc. Additional help menu options, including the manual, web resources, and free training. Free training web resources such as the Freedom Scientific Training YouTube channel, Free Webinars Training page and the Surf's Up Training website. Meeting ID: 886 5246 9982 | Passcode: 215449 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,88652469982#,,,,*215449# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88652469982?pwd=WnB6L21JbnZwZEpMMEJVM0N2K3VuUT09#success
13) Virtual Career Fair During Blind Equality Achievement Month | National Federation of the Blind
October 26th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Join us Wednesday, October 26, 2022, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Eastern via Zoom for our fall virtual career fair. There is no charge for employers or job seekers. The National Federation of the Blind career fairs are events for blind people seeking jobs to connect with employers, and an opportunity for employers to seek more talent for their teams. The career fairs may be in-person or virtual and provide additional trainings for developing skills such as interviewing tips. Join us for the next career fair. Registration required by October 12, 2022. For more information on the career fair, please contact Dick Davis, Employment Committee Chair, at dickblind@gmail.com 📧️, John Dubay, Employer Liaison, at jdubay@leadsatscale.com, or Rachel Kuntz at rkuntz@saavi.us 📧️. About National Federation of the Blind Employment Initiatives
With opportunities to compete in the workplace in terms of equality, blind people can achieve careers based on their dreams, talents, and abilities. The National Federation of the Blind connects working-age blind people with opportunities and resources to compete in the workplace on terms of equality. For more information, contact Maurice Peret, NOMCT, Coordinator of Career Mentoring & Employment Programs, at mperet@nfb.org or (410) 659-9314 📱️, extension 2350.
Registration for Job Seekers: https://nfb.org/form/career-fair-jobseeker-registration
Registration for Employers: https://nfb.org/form/career-fair-employer-registration
14) WordPress Accessibility Day
November 2nd 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | WordPress Accessibility Day is a free, 24-hour online event scheduled to start at 15:00 UTC (11:00 US Eastern, 8:00 US Pacific) on Wednesday, November 2nd. The conference will be held virtually so you can present from anywhere worldwide. Here are some other important things to know about speaking at WordPress Accessibility Day: We will provide an accessible speaking experience — the presentation platform will be screen reader-friendly, and we will have captions and sign language interpretation available for speakers as needed. You don't have to have speaking experience! We would love to have first-time speakers present and can support you in presenting as needed. You don't have to be an "expert" or have any special certifications. Anyone with something to share related to accessibility on the web or in WordPress is invited to apply. You can share your journey learning about accessibility or your experience as a person with a disability even if you don't think you've reached the end of that journey yet. Your topic doesn't have to be explicitly WordPress related. While we want some talks specific to WordPress and want to encourage developer-level presentations, not all talks need to be specific to WordPress. General website accessibility talks with broad applications for websites of all types and people of all levels of technical abilities are welcome. If you have an idea for a talk to share your knowledge or experiences about the intersection of WordPress and accessibility, we'd love to hear it!
https://wpaccessibility.day/weekend-plans-apply-to-speak-at-wp-accessibility-day/
15) AT Gifts for the Holidays | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Our annual look at gadgets and gizmos that will make your holiday season a successful one. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
16) ACB's 2022 Audio Description Awards Gala
November 29 2022 | The American Council of the Blind (ACB) proudly announces the second annual Audio Description Awards Gala on November 29, 2022. The Gala will once again celebrate outstanding achievements in audio description in media and expand awareness of its benefits. In recent years there has been enormous success in expanding audio description for audiences who are blind, low vision, or have other sensory disabilities that create barriers to full inclusion in visual media. "The Audio Description Awards Gala will celebrate the best of the best within the art and science of inclusive audio-described media," said Eric Bridges, ACB's Executive Director. "Together we will work to expand awareness of the transformative value that audio description brings to the lives of people with disabilities:"
https://acb.org/save-the-date-2022-AD-Awards
17) Blind Health Expo | The Accessible Pharmacy
December 2nd 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | The Accessible Pharmacy Blind Health Expo will be the largest virtual expo of healthcare information, products, services, and medication for individuals who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision. Join thousands of other attendees and register now for free!
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/blind-health-expo/
18) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
December 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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
✍ List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. Fill out this short form to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-buy-sell-trade or learn more on the Top Tech Tidbits website.
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: Fable
➜ Free and Accessible Training for the Tech Sector
Fable Pathways helps you gain the skills that you need to work in the tech sector with a free, accessible, and on-demand program. Learn from industry leaders with disabilities to take your career to the next level, like Kelly Ford, Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, who introduces GitHub and VS Code using a screen reader. Spend less time and energy trying to access courses with your assistive technology and focus on the content that matters to you, with Fable Pathways' accessible platform. Sign up today!
https://www.fablepathways.com/
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: https://fablepathways.com/ 🌐
Email: community@makeitfable.com 📧️
Phone: (888) 212-3532 📱️ Extension 810
About: Just like curb cuts help everyone get on and off sidewalks, designing digital products with accessibility in mind helps make the internet more accessible for everyone. Fable is an accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities. Fable connects people with disabilities to accessibility managers, user researchers, designers, and developers to build incredible and accessible user experiences.
Opportunities:
➜ Fable Pathways: Fable Pathways is a free skill development program for people with disabilities interested in working in the tech sector. Sign up to take your career to the next level. Courses include "Getting started in web development" taught by Kelly Ford, a screen reader user, and Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, and "Becoming a manager" taught by Fable's Head of Accessibility Innovation, Kate Kalcevich. Instructors are subject matter experts in their fields and have lived experience with disability. Pathways courses are free, self-paced and assistive-technology-friendly. Sign up now at https://fablepathways.com/.
➜ Fable's Community of Accessibility Testers: Work from home to contribute to real changes in digital accessibility and make the internet a more accessible place for everyone. Ever leave a website because it was too hard to navigate? Because it was missing button labels? Because it didn't respond to voice commands? Us too. Our community of testers who use assistive technologies work from home and contribute to real changes in digital accessibility with recognizable brands. Earn money to share your feedback on websites and apps of your favorite brands and work with companies that care. No experience required and no resume required. Fable is looking for assistive technology users in the USA and Canada to work the hours that they want, from the comfort of their own homes. Learn more at https://fablepathways.com/community/.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ Dolphin Friends Program
Help businesses who are leveraging self-service kiosks to deliver their products and services understand your need for accessibility. Share the latest Dolphin Blog "Learn Why and How to Make Your Kiosks Accessible" on your social media accounts and tag businesses you use who need to implement more accessibility features within their kiosks. Together we can make a difference!
https://blog.yourdolphin.com/blog/learn-why-and-how-to-make-your-kiosks-accessible
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Sponsor: Clusiv
➜ Looking For Blind Job-Seekers Wanting To Advance Their Salaries, Careers And Digital Accessibility For The Blind
Are you interested in learning new tech skills and working remotely while earning a competitive salary? At Clusiv.io we have created the world's first digitally accessible e-Learning platform built by the blind, and built for the blind. Visit the link provided and request Clusiv through your Vocational Rehab counselor for lifetime access to our e-Learning platform with courses such as Business Applications, JAWS, and more:
https://clusiv.io/
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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 from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Control the climate of your home independently! The VIP 3000 is a universal heating — cooling talking thermostat This accessible digital thermostat is specifically designed to offer audio playback of indoor temperature, temperature settings and programming instructions so blind and visually impaired users can independently & precisely manage their indoor comfort. Don't over pay. Read more at:
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 every day 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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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 Next Generation in Accessibility
Need to quickly access a distant computer with minimal fuss? Need to quickly convert image documents into readable text? Today's students and working professionals demand more of their technology. Employers expect more of their workforce. Pneuma Solutions is bridging the gap using the best in machine learning to connect you to your environment when you need it, how you need it. Give us a try, and experience accessibility on a whole new level:
https://pneumasolutions.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
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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Combine Learning And Gaming For A Fun Braille Adventure With Polly!
APH and Thinkerbell Labs are excited to introduce Polly, complete with customizable UEB lessons, songs, games, and stories! Join our waiting list to know when Polly is available:
https://www.aph.org/polly-wait-list/
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
➜ Announcing The Availability of the 60 Inch Locking Titanium Telescopic Cane
Why hasn't somebody thought to produce a locking telescopic cane in multiple sizes? For a whole lot of years! Why hasn't there been accurate talking medical products where the thermometer gives you the same reading twice? And why do we get devices marketed to us where the USB port has a life expectancy of months rather than years? Haven't figured out how to solve the last one yet, but the first two, we have. Call Barry at: (617) 969-7500 📱️, or by email at barry.scheur@gmail.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, affordable, 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
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: That Real Blind Tech Show
➜ That Real Blind Tech Show Episode 96: We Got More Resolutions, ACB Style!
It's a fully packed That Real Blind Tech show lair. Join us as we recap this year's ACB Resolutions. We chime in with all of our opinions about this year's resolutions, and as usual some hilarity ensues. You will not want to miss both AirPods issues that take place on this episode. We are adding do not listen to That Real Blind Tech show on the bus as we are not responsible for the stares you will receive when laughing or cackling like a lunatic!
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-96-we-got-more-resolutions-acb-style
Sponsor Since: August 11th 2022
Website: https://blindtechshow.com/ 🌐
Email: ThatRealBlindTechShow@gmail.com 📧️
Social: Facebook Page | Facebook Group | Twitter
Listen: Apple Podcasts | Audible | Google Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube
Hosts: Brian Fischler | Ed Plumacher | Allison Meloy | Jenine Stanley
Goals: We want to educate you on the latest tech for the blindness community. You'll learn what is worth keeping and what you need to return. Our goals are: To inform, inspire and educate our audience. Feature guests and products that bring you value. Continuously improve and deliver the best content.
About: A podcast discussing the good & bad of assistive technology for the low vision & totally blind. No longer focused on just Apple VoiceOver technology. That Real Blind Tech show covers all the fantastic talking tech and gadgets out there for the low vision and blindness community. Common topics include Apple's VoiceOver, JAWS, Microsoft Narrator, NVDA, Amazon Alexa and VoiceView, Google Assistant and Android. Basically, if a device can talk to you, we are going to be talking about it. That Real Blind Tech Show will not only educate you, but it will also make you laugh. Listeners are encouraged to not use treadmills or drink hot coffee while listening to our show, or accidents can and have occurred. Dishes have been broken while listening to That Real Blind Tech Show, and while we are responsible for the laughs, we are in no way responsible for the injuries or bills that pile up. Remember to keep it Real and also don't believe anything you hear on That Real Blind Tech Show.
Home | Episodes | Blog | Contact | Subscribe
Sponsor: Aira
➜ Webinar: Discovering Aira on the Blind Shell | September 27th 2022 at 2:00 PM ET
Join us for this monthly series featuring Diane Ducharme of BlindShell USA and Jenine Stanley of Aira as they discover all there is to know about using Aira on the BlindShell Classic 2 phone:
https://aira.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_g9O7k3RaR7mYYT1ODnm0cA
Sponsor Since: August 4th 2022
Website: https://aira.io/ 🌐
Download the App: Apple App Store | Google Play Store
Plans and Pricing: https://aira.io/pricing/
Phone: NA: +1.800.835.1934 📱️ | AU: +1.800.765.096 📱️ | UK: +0.800.046.5668 📱️ | NZ: +1.800.425.451 📱️
Text Message: NA: +1.858.242.4457 📲 | AU: +61.488.839.767 📲 | UK: +44.149.320.2474 📲
Email: support@aira.io 📧️
Social: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
About: Aira's mission is to remove barriers and make the world more accessible with visual interpreting.
We provide a live, human-to-human professional assistance service, an accommodation or productivity tool, that enhances independence by delivering on-demand, skilled and reliable visual interpreting for just about any task. Using the powerful combination of a camera and the Aira app on someone's device of 'choice', a professionally-trained agent will assist by visually interpreting what is in the camera's view or on screen, from describing to reading, from explaining to navigating - just about anything, safely and securely. Aira supports a growing range of devices including smart and tactile button phones, desktop computers and soon, wearables.
Whether you are involved in the work of business, the work of school or the work of life, Aira enhances everyday efficiency, engagement, and independence. Used by employees and customers of hundreds of organizations including airports, banks, the largest software companies, financial firms, retailers and universities, we invite you to join the community, access the Aira app today and try it for free.
https://aira.io/download-and-try-it/
Step One: Subscribe and Download. Pick the plan that lets you explore on your terms and on your time, sign up in a few minutes, and download the Aira app to your smartphone. Plans shown are for the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Add or cancel at any time.
Step Two: Connect with an Aira Agent. On the first call, connect with one of our certified, specially-trained Agents and learn how everything works.
Step Three: Real-time Assistance. At the touch of a button, Aira delivers instant access to visual information, when and where you want it.
Sponsor: Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
➜ Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore: Touch Tomorrow in Today's Products
Serving blind people since 1999, we're a family-owned, forward-thinking company offering both tried-and-true and exciting new products for blind and low vision consumers. We design and carry self-voicing educational software, Braille supplies, talking gadgets, adapted household items, tactile card and board games, audible toys and gift ideas. Passionate about innovation, we've also created dozens of products from scratch when a suitable solution did not exist. Shop online at http://www.braillebookstore.com/ and enjoy fast, free shipping.
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: http://www.braillebookstore.com/ 🌐
Phone (Toll Free): (800) 987-1231 📱️
Fax (Toll Free): (800) 985-1231 ░
Email: Sales@BrailleBookstore.com 📧️
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time.
About: Welcome to Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore. We have been supplying products to blind people and their families since 1999. We offer thousands of Braille books, toys, games, kitchen aids, and talking products. We have unbeatable prices, fast, free shipping, and great customer service! We have tons of Braille books and cool products to choose from; so grab a cup of coffee, relax, and we'll give you a quick tour:
Products:
➜ Timekeeping
➜ Housewares
➜ On The Go
➜ Low Vision Products
➜ Toys and Games
➜ Gift Shop
➜ Braille Workshop
➜ Braille Bookstore
➜ Greeting Cards
➜ Copy Center
➜ Computer Lab
➜ Popular Products
➜ New Products
If you need some fresh ideas or have questions, you can also check out our Shopping Guides.
Your Name Here
0 of 18 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are currently 0 of 18 packages available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, September 22, 2022 - Volume 877
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.
Subscribers: 7,467 Opt-In Subscribers were sent this issue via email. 142 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: No Sponsorship Packages Currently Available. Please Consider Joining Our Waiting List Today! This Issue Made Possible By 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., Double Tap TV, Clusiv, Dolphin Computer Access, Fable, Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore, Aira and That Real Blind Tech Show.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Tidbit for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) What's New In iOS 16 Accessibility For Blind And Deafblind Users | AppleVis | Scott Davert (7.1% of all clicks.)
I'm back yet again. Just like in years past, September brings us a new major release of iOS. This latest edition includes many mainstream changes such as a revamped Lock screen; enhancements to privacy and safety features; Focus Mode enhancements; new functionality in Messages and Mail; along with many other improvements. For Apple's official list of iOS 16 features and changes, see this webpage which Highlights many. A lot of articles will cover these changes in detail, but far fewer will cover the accessibility enhancements and features for individuals who are blind or deafblind:
https://www.applevis.com/blog/whats-new-ios-16-accessibility-blind-deafblind-users
B.) Apple's Killing the Password. Here's Everything You Need to Know (4.2% of all clicks.)
With iOS 16 and macOS Ventura, Apple is introducing passkeys — a more convenient and secure alternative to passwords:
https://www.wired.com/story/apple-passkeys-password-iphone-mac-ios16-ventura/
C.) New Accessibility Features Are Coming To Android Devices (3.9% of all clicks.)
Android is introducing new features to improve accessibility, personalization, and productivity across various devices:
https://coolblindtech.com/new-accessibility-features-are-coming-to-android-devices/
D.) Accessibility Support Phone Lines You Should Know (3.2% of all clicks.)
With a welcomed emphasis on accessibility and inclusion, numerous companies now offer specialized support services for customers with vision loss. They are there to help you get the most out of their products and to ensure your devices are set right to accommodate your needs. This is an effort we greatly appreciate and are delighted to spread the word:
https://ophthalmicedge.org/patient/accessibility-support-phone-lines-you-should-know/
E.) iOS 16.1 Beta 1: Here Are All Of The New Features And Changes (3.2% of all clicks.)
iOS 16.1 is here and available to download for developer beta testers. As we expected, the update includes a number of changes and features. These include updates to features already included in iOS 16, the addition of features announced at WWDC in June, and more. Head below for the full roundup:
https://9to5mac.com/2022/09/14/ios-16-1-changes-features/
2) Premium Subscriber Updates
Premium Subscribers will receive their next issue of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits for July, August and September 2022 on Monday, October 3rd 2022. Premium Subscribers are entitled to all back issues, anytime they sign up. If you would like to receive a perfectly formatted and searchable Word Document with each of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits of the last 3 months listed neatly within it, please consider signing up here today for just $1 a month:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/premium-subscribers.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Weekly Scramble
The Top Tech Tidbits Weekly Scramble presents a single word or phrase related to adaptive or assistive technology whose letters have been scrambled. Can you put the letters back in the proper order to determine this week's word? Check your work next week where we'll provide the answer along with a new challenge.
LAST WEEK'S SCRAMBLE: RRREDECSNEEA = SCREENREADER
NEW SCRAMBLE: IDIEMNTOEAR =
4) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: How To Create A Folder in Outlook
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/119.html
5) Dolphin SuperNova With Microsoft Office Power Tip: Reviewing Applied Styles in Microsoft Word
Courtesy of Dolphin Computer Access:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/120.html
6) Permanently Unhide The "Safely Remove Hardware and Eject Media" Icon in Windows 11 | YouTube | DSurf | Dan Clark
The Taskbar corner in Windows 11 has been condensed to a "Show Hidden Icons" button along with a minimal number of other icons. While this looks great and is less cluttered, some of the icons for apps you may often use could be hidden within the Show Hidden Icons area when you need them. This is true of the "Safely Remove Hardware and Eject Media" icon. Here's how to find it and fix it in Windows 11:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2OXPKCma2gY&feature=youtu.be&themeRefresh=1
7) AccessWorld August 2022
Articles this month include: Editor's Notes: Entrepreneurship and Personal Finance | First Post Pandemic Conventions: Together In Nola, NFB 2022 | Online Payment Platforms: An Evaluation of Accessibility, Part II: Apple Pay | Prizmo Go and TextGrabber: A Review of Two Mainstream OCR Apps | ReVision Fitness: An Accessible Fitness Program for iOS, Android, and on the Web:
https://www.afb.org/aw/full-issue?id=18034
8) Android's New Notification Feature Is a Decade Overdue
In Android 13, apps have to ask permission before they send any kind of alerts. Finally:
https://www.wired.com/story/android-13-notifications-permission/
9) Onsite 60 Minute Google Study in New York City For Persons With Speech Impairments Involving A Prototype of Google Assistant | Sept 27th 2022 Through September 29th 2022 | Blind Android Users
If you live in the New York City area and have some speech impairment, Google is inviting you to participate in research involving a prototype of the Google Assistant. This is an in-person appearance, meaning, you would have to go to the Google Office in New York City to do the 60-minute study. Below is the info with the available dates and the URL to the form to fill out for participation in the study. User Type: Users with Speech Impairments. Product: Google Assistant. Length of Study: 60 minutes. Date(s): Tuesday, Sept 27th - Thursday, Sept 29th 2022. Details: User must be located and able to attend an in-person study at our New York City office. User will test a Google Assistant prototype. Thank-You Gift: $125 USD. Location: New York City , New York. Link for participating:
https://forms.gle/A54mECBv3wTuyv2TA
10) iPhone 14: How to Enable the New Power On and Off Sounds
For the iPhone 14 series, Apple has added an optional new accessibility feature that plays a sound when the iPhone is powered on and off. Here's how to enable them:
https://www.macrumors.com/how-to/enable-mac-like-startup-sound-turn-on-iphone-14/
11) NVDA 2022.2.3 Released
NV Access is pleased to announce that version 2022.2.3 of NVDA, the free screen reader for Microsoft Windows, is now available for download. This is a patch release to fix an accidental API breakage introduced in 2022.2.1, which broke compatibility with NVDA remote:
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/nvda-2022-2-3/
12) NV Access In Process For September 2022
The recent patch, NVDA 2022.3 Beta 5, NVDA Remote, and accessing the Windows Task Manager are discussed:
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-20th-september-2022/
13) Spotify Launches Audiobooks. Don't Forget Your Wallet
The service was always an unlimited buffet. Now you'll need to fork out for each audiobook — the biggest change to how you pay for Spotify in a decade:
https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/spotify-launches-audiobooks-dont-forget-your-wallet/#ftag=CAD590a51e
14) How to Unsend and Edit Messages in iOS 16
With one long press, you can finally unsend that ill-considered rant — as long as both you and your contact have iOS 16:
https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-unsend-and-edit-messages-ios-16/
15) Dictating On The iPhone | How To Get The Best Results | 9to5Mac
Dictating on the iPhone is, I would confidently estimate, something I do more than typing. Siri is also the main way I control my HomeKit devices. Any time I've mentioned either of these things, there are always comments from people saying how terrible their experience is with both, so I thought I'd share a few things I think make a difference. If you've just updated to iOS 16, now is a particularly good time to give dictation another go, as you can now easily mix-and-match speaking and typing:
https://9to5mac.com/2022/09/14/dictating-on-the-iphone/
16) Microsoft Windows 11 2022 Update: Every New Feature You Should Care About
The Windows 11 2022 update is here. Here we break down everything new:
https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/windows-11-2022-update-every-new-feature-you-should-care-about/#ftag=CAD590a51e
17) New Accessibility Features in Windows 11 22 H2 | Paul Thurrott
While this article was published three months ago it applies to the newest version of Windows 11 which is now available. Windows 11 version 22 H2 includes three major new accessibility features. Unfortunately, all three are available in U.S. English only. They are:
https://www.thurrott.com/windows/windows-11/268756/new-in-22h2-accessibility
18) OCR Video Series
While we have not yet had the opportunity to review these we are happy to pass on the information. The U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights is proud to announce a video series covering a variety of topics on digital access in education, including how people with disabilities use technology, applicable Federal regulations, and identifying and remediating barriers to access. Whether you are in the educational field or not, these videos have wide ranging coverage for those who want to know: What makes technology accessible for individuals with disabilities? And how can I make my site or platform more accessible?
https://adata.org/ocr-videos
19) Alexa Accessibility Features Extend To Fire Tablets
Useful for people with speech and/or mobility disabilities, Tap to Alexa with a compatible Bluetooth switch allows people with disabilities to navigate and interact with their Fire tablet. Tap to Alexa on Fire tablets (8th generation and later) is available in the U.S., UK, Germany, and Japan:
https://www.aboutamazon.com/news/devices/alexa-accessibility-features-extend-to-fire-tablets
20) 6 Helpful Accessibility Features in the Amazon Kindle
And while we're on the subject, PC Mag has a description of accessibility features in a Kindle Paperwhite:
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/accessibility-features-amazon-kindle
21) How to Fix Common iOS Accessibility Issues
iOS provides a lot of accessibility behavior for free, so it's a great start to making a mobile application accessible. Unfortunately, accessibility is more complicated than the iOS behavior can address, and using only default behavior can actually cause the app to have additional issues:
https://www.deque.com/blog/how-to-fix-common-ios-accessibility-issues/
22) Discussion Paper: Where You AT? Supporting Clients Through Virtual Assistive Technology | The AT3 Team | King's Western University — Canada
Hello fellow ATs. We've just released our discussion paper, Where you AT? Supporting Clients Through Virtual Assistive Technology. You can review insights from this discussion paper based on data from the AT3: An AT Survey for ATs by ATs. This discussion paper contains: An Executive Summary. Highlights from the AT3 survey. AT Tips for virtual support. Recommendations. We hope our discussion paper provides information and guidance that you can use to determine how you move forward with virtual AT support and improve accessibility for your students/clients. Please feel free to circulate this discussion paper among your AT networks:
Yumpu eBook Version: https://www.yumpu.com/en/document/view/67089992/where-you-at
Downloadable Accessible Low-Res Version: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IDau6BHz9NnoMfZxsagGaF8g7rEMJ4EY/view?usp=sharing
Downloadable Accessible High-Res Version: https://indd.adobe.com/view/c92b09cb-c4b0-4fe6-9518-e1f222c1e658
23) Closet Organization | Part of the Clothing Series | Hadley |
Learn tips to clean and organize your closet in the following workshop:
https://hadley.edu/workshops/clothing-series/clothing-closet-organization
24) The Document Foundation Releases LibreOffice on Apple's Mac App Store
The Document Foundation (TDF) has announced the release of LibreOffice on Apple's Mac App Store to support end users who want to get all of their desktop software from Apple's proprietary sales channel:
https://blog.documentfoundation.org/blog/2022/09/19/the-document-foundation-releases-libreoffice-on-apples-mac-app-store/
25) Announcing BARD Mobile for iOS 2.0
NLS has released version 2.0 of BARD Mobile for iOS. In this version, the BARD Website option is replaced by a new and powerful search engine that has the following abilities. The update is expected to be available by Friday, September 23rd 2022:
https://www.loc.gov/nls/?loclr=eabard
26) For Users of NVDA And Microsoft Office | Announcing Office Desk: A New Add-on To Improve Support for Microsoft 365 Apps | Joseph Lee | Tech-VI List
I'm delighted to announce a new add-on project specifically designed for Microsoft 365 users in mind: Office Desk, a new add-on designed to provide improved support for Microsoft Office applications. Borrowing concepts from Windows App Essentials, this add-on consists of a global plugin and a collection of app modules for Office apps such as Excel, Word, Access and others:
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/2658
27) The Inside Story of NVDA | Joseph Lee | Tech-VI List
First, thank you to Brian V for giving me permission to do something I've been dreaming about for the last few years: giving you a tour of NVDA screen reader internals. For the last few years, I wished I could take some time to tell you how a screen reader works from the inside, as well as add a much needed body of knowledge to screen reader research. When you do a forum archive search for terms such as "internals" and "development", you will come across posts from yours truly and others talking about writing a series of articles on screen reader internals. To quote a few:
Introduction and Overall Goals and Mindset (Technical): https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/2660
What A Screen Reader Is And Is Not, Possibilities And Constraints Of Screen Readers: https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/2659
28) Recording: Prep and Proof: Use Styles in Microsoft Word with JAWS | Freedom Scientific Training Podcast
We provide an overview of what styles are and how to use them, plus show you how to: Apply existing Word styles to a document Create new styles to customize formatting Create a Table of Contents using styles Freedom Scientific Presenters: Elizabeth Whitaker and Cathy Johnson:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/freedom-scientific-training-podcast/id1521340640?i=1000579681106
29) Telstra Builds A Buzzing, Vibrating Viewer For Visually Impaired AFL Fans
If you can't see the game, chances are you're going to have a different experience watching football, or even reading this article. But Telstra has been dabbling with a gadgety solution that can help you feel it:
https://www.pickr.com.au/news/2022/telstra-builds-a-buzzing-vibrating-viewer-for-visually-impaired-afl-fans/
30) Korean Trio Designs Guitar-Inspired Musical Instrument For The Visually Impaired
Korean design trio Eojin Roh, Seonjin Baek, and Yujeong Shin introduce 'VITAR', a Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) designed for the blind and visually impaired. Shaped like a guitar, and instead of the traditional strings, the instrument includes a Braille fingerboard made up of several embossed keys that user's sense and press with their left hand to play a tune. While operating the keys, electronic signals get sent to a Digital Audio Workstation through which the melody unfolds:
https://www.designboom.com/design/vitar-electric-guitar-inspired-musical-instrument-for-the-visually-impaired-09-07-2022/
31) Smartphone 3D Surface Imaging Offers Accessibility to Visually Impaired Pediatric Patients with Craniofacial Abnormalities
For many children, wearing the correct glasses is crucially important to ensuring lifelong, healthy vision. While finding the right prescription or style might be tedious, there are many commercially available glasses to fit the needs of most children. However, for pediatric patients with congenital or acquired craniofacial abnormalities, finding glasses that comfortably fit with their unique cranial anatomy can be a challenge. These children may have poor adherence to wearing glasses daily, and because of this, they are at an increased risk of vision loss secondary to refractive amblyopia:
https://www.docwirenews.com/docwire-pick/home-page-picks/smartphone-3d-surface-imaging-offers-accessibility-to-visually-impaired-pediatric-patients-with-craniofacial-abnormalities/
32) Sao Mai Braille 22.9.15 Released | A Free Word Editor And Braille Translation Software
Sao Mai Braille (SMB) is a free rich text editing and Braille translation software for Windows, developed by Sao Mai Center for the Blind. Sao Mai Center is a non-profit organization based in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam. With 19 new additional music Braille translation options, full math editing and Braille + speech conversion features, as well as many more new improvements, Sao Mai Braille (SMB) 22.9.15 excels in its support for editing and translating a variety of documents into Braille (text, graphics, math equations and music):
https://saomaicenter.org/en/smsoft/smb
➜ Press Releases and Other News
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Press Release or Other News item for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Canadian Family Taking World Tour Before Children Lose Their Vision
Their daughter Mia was just three years old when Canadian couple Edith Lemay and Sebastien Pelletier first noticed that she was having vision problems. A few years after they first took her to see a specialist, Mia, the eldest of their four children, was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, a rare genetic condition that causes a loss or decline in vision over time. By this point, Lemay and Pelletier, who've been married for 12 years, had noticed that two of their sons, Colin, now seven, and Laurent, now five, were experiencing the same symptoms:
https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/canadian-family-retinitis-pigmentosa/index.html
2) RNIB and Oxford Uni Press Partner
An agreement between Oxford University Press (OUP) and the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) has allowed those with a print disability to access more than 900,000 academic books:
https://www.opticianonline.net/news/rnib-and-oxford-uni-press-partner
3) If I Could Speak Again | Cai Emmons
I've been dreaming recently that I can talk. In these dreams I always know that my ability to speak will not last; it will come and go, so while it's available I have to speak quickly and efficiently to say everything I need to say. It's a positive dream, a real pleasure to be able to express myself again, if only for a limited period of time:
https://caiemmons.medium.com/if-i-could-speak-again-3fef979d1008
4) New Treaty Helps Visually Impaired To Access Books
China's effective implementation of the Marrakesh Treaty marks the country's continual efforts to ensure visually impaired people have equal rights to knowledge and education, experts said on Friday:
https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202209/17/WS63251ebea310fd2b29e78312.html
5) NewHaptics Awarded NIH SBIR Phase II Grant to Commercialize Multiline Braille and Graphical Tactile Display
NewHaptics, an innovative tactile display technology company, announced it has been awarded a Phase II Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant funded by the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH). The competitive $1.7M grant was awarded by the National Eye Institute, which aims to eliminate vision loss and improve quality of life through vision research. This is the third SBIR award received by NewHaptics to date, and supports the company's development of novel tactile display technology for a low-cost multiline refreshable braille display for the blind:
https://www.yahoo.com/now/newhaptics-awarded-nih-sbir-phase-191300993.html
6) Mida Solutions Launches New Attendant Console for Visually Impaired Agents
Building on its longstanding partnership with Vision Dept, an Italian distributor of products and services for visually impaired and blind people, Mida Solutions has been working closely with the distributor to understand how to improve Mida Attendant Console in order to allow blind and visually impaired people to use the latest version of the application smoothly, without any kind of limitations compared to sighted operators. This has resulted in the new user interface of Mida Attendant Console achieving the aim of placing blind and visually impaired operators on a level playing field with sighted workers:
https://www.uctoday.com/unified-communications/mida-solutions-launches-new-attendant-console-for-visually-impaired-agents/
7) Alibaba Deploys Inclusive Technologies to Help Elderly and Visually Impaired Access Daily Services
Alibaba says it is committed to narrowing the digital divide through scientific and technological innovation, such as by upgrading to barrier-free services, introducing AI to disease screening, as well as by taking care of the needs of vulnerable groups:
https://pandaily.com/alibaba-deploys-inclusive-technologies-to-help-elderly-and-visually-impaired-access-daily-services/
8) Northside Distilling Co. To Release Bourbon Whiskey For The Visually Impaired
The Cincinnati Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CABVI) is partnering with Northside Distilling Co. to release Braille Bourbon Whiskey later this month:
https://www.cincinnati.com/story/entertainment/dining/2022/09/14/braille-bourbon-whiskey-northside-distilling-co-partner-cabvi/69491871007/
9) Braille Institute Establishes Partnership With CSULA to Provide Orientation & Mobility (O&M) Internships
Braille Institute has entered into an agreement with California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA) to provide graduate students in their O&M program the ability to obtain hands-on experience by working with blind and visually impaired individuals at one of Braille Institute's seven centers through a formal internship training program:
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220913005063/en/Braille-Institute-Establishes-Partnership-With-CSULA-to-Provide-Orientation-Mobility-OM-Internships
10) Dining In The Dark Event Raises Awareness, Funds To Support Hoosiers Who Are Blind Or Visually Impaired
Tickets are on sale now for the Dining in the Dark event, which provides guests with an eye mask that allows them to experience how it feels to eat without being able to see. It's all part of a way to bring awareness to the training program offered at Bosma's Center for Visionary Solutions. Dining in the Dark is Bosma Visionary Opportunities Foundation's signature event. The gala will take place on Saturday, September 24th 2022 at the JW Marriott in Downtown Indianapolis starting at 7:00 PM:
https://www.wishtv.com/lifestylelive/dining-in-the-dark-event-raises-awareness-funds-to-support-hoosiers-who-are-blind-or-visually-impaired/
11) Viewpoint: Telehealth Disparities Exist Among Visually Impaired Populations
An article in Health Affairs shows that visually impaired patients often experience telehealth disparities due to difficulties with accessibility and navigation and shares recommendations to alleviate these issues:
https://mhealthintelligence.com/news/viewpoint-telehealth-disparities-exist-among-visually-impaired-populations
➜ Surveys
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related survey for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-survey or locate "Survey Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Surveys: From APH
Closes: Ongoing Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
2) Survey: Data Visualization Research at Boston College
Closes: September 22nd 2022 Hello, there! We are data visualization researchers at Boston College. We are currently studying how charts and graphs can be made more accessible for blind and low-vision users. For this, we are looking for people that meet the following requirements: blind or low-vision, screen reader user, in the USA, and at least 18 years or older. If this is you, please take part in our study! Your participation will help develop and improve different strategies to guide the exploration of charts. The study will take approximately 90 minutes. The study will be conducted online via a remote zoom call. We will compensate you with up to $50 in Amazon gift cards for your participation. To take part, send an email with the subject "Study Sign Up" to joynersh@bc.edu 📧️. If you have any questions, you can use the same address.
3) Survey: Seeking User Feedback On The Accessibility Of COVID And Home Diagnostics Tests | ACB On Behalf Of The National Institutes Of Health (NIH) And The Georgia Institute Of Technology
Closes: September 22nd 2022 Whether you have taken a COVID home test or not, your feedback is incredibly valuable to inform this research and improve all future forms of home diagnostic testing. Please help us gain more equitable access to at-home testing by taking 15-20 minutes to share your thoughts and experiences in response to this survey:
https://gatech.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bdqaz5GtByY4H1I
4) Survey: Robotics Institute at OSU is Testing A New Navigation Aid, The Optiband
Closes: October 1st 2022 The Robotics Institute at OSU is testing a new handheld navigation aid, the Optiband, which uses vibrations to help a user understand their environment better. The Optiband was designed with a blind stakeholder to be more than an obstacle avoidance device, and helps users gain spatial and depth perception. We are interested in talking to BVI persons about our device, and whether or not they are willing to test out a model of the device. We are running a study and are actively recruiting participants, to whom we will provide a device as well as cash compensation for their time. If you are interested or have any questions/concerns, please send an email to: bontulaa@oregonstate.edu 📧️ or send a text to (541)-360-9491 📱️.
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Podcast Episode for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-podcast-episode or locate "Podcast Episode Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Hadley Presents: A Conversation With The Experts: Tips for Fun and Accessible Travel
August 19th 2022 | Certified accessible travel advocate Melvin Reynolds joins the podcast to share tips for getting the most out of traveling, no matter your level of vision. Melvin gives advice on what to research ahead of a trip, considerations for traveling with a guide dog, and how a certified accessible travel advocate can help:
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/tips-fun-and-accessible-travel
2) Mosen at Large Episode 198: Microphone Advice, Laptop Advice, And One Of These 26 Things Is Not Like The Other
September 17th 2022https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/7ad52cf6/microphone-advice-laptop-advice-and-one-of-these-26-things-is-not-like-the-other
3) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 93: App Bonanza
September 17th 2022 | In this episode we have our quarterly App Bonanza. We demo, Wion, Smart Audio Book Player and Yuka - Food & Cosmetic Scan. And we have a tip of the week in which Samsung users can change their side key from Bixby to Google Assistant. This episode can be found at:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqpqOoiXXhw_Wimpf0YdhkD9
4) Blind Abilities Episode 892: iPhone101 QuickByte: Safari Ticking Be Gone! You Won't Miss It!
September 20th 2022 | Blind Abilities presents another QuickByte offering some troubleshooting for a possible problem you may be having in the Safari app on your iDevice. We think it's safe to assume many of us have experienced it... that distracting, irritating, downright annoying noise: what exactly would we call it? clicking? tapping... Pete Lane says "no," it's clearly ticking! And here is how to turn off that ticking sound: 1. Go to Settings, Accessibility, Voiceover, Audio, Sounds & Haptics, Sounds, and down to "Item Loading". Perform a single-finger double-tap and you'll hear Voiceover say: "On". This is its current position, so do another double tap to turn it "off". Voila! You should not be bothered again by the dreaded "ticking" sound! Listen here:
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7639
5) Eyes on Success Episode 2238: Living with a Blind Person
September 21st 2022 | Most episodes of Eyes On Success center on the experiences of a blind person, whether dealing with technology, employment, travelling or whatever. This week, hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey discuss raising and living with a blind person from everybody else's perspective, including interviews with Pete's mother, sister, wife, in-laws and children:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202238.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Webinar, Training Course or Event for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-event or locate "Webinar / Training Course Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Accessible Music Tech 2022
September 23rd 2022 | 2PM PT, 3PM MT, 4PM CT, 5PM ET, 9PM GMT | A one-day, fully online event with technical talks, panels, and musical demonstrations exploring the intersections of accessibility and music. This event is free and there is no need to register. Just come back here at the start of the event:
https://accessiblemusic.tech/events/2022/
2) Blindness & Diabetes Webinar: Dexcom vs Freestyle Libre | Accessible Pharmacy Services For The Blind
September 23rd 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Blindness and Diabetes Webinar: Dexcom vs Freestyle Libre. Please join Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind and University of Pennsylvania's Diabetes Education Center as we compare Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) devices available to our blind, deafblind, and low vision patients living with diabetes. We will be discussing differences between Dexcom and Freestyle Libre as well as their accessibility features. This webinar will have captioning and a live ASL interpreter. If you are unable to attend, please register to receive the webinar audio and video via email:
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/blindness-diabetes-webinar-dexcom-vs-freestyle-libre/
3) Discovering Aira on the Blind Shell | Aira
September 27th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Join us for this monthly series featuring Diane Ducharme of BlindShell USA and Jenine Stanley of Aira as they discover all there is to know about using Aira on the BlindShell Classic 2 phone:
https://aira.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_g9O7k3RaR7mYYT1ODnm0cA
4) TOPAZ Family of Magnifiers: Powerful Visual Aids (ACVREP CE Approved) | Access Ingenuity
September 28th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | The TOPAZ family of desktop video magnifiers combines ease of use with powerful features to help people retain their independent lifestyle - reading, writing, viewing photographs and engaging in hobbies. All TOPAZ models are available in a range of monitor sizes and provide a clear, crisp picture with a wide range of magnification and color-coded controls. The ergonomic design provides exceptional reading comfort for hours of use in the home, office, or school. During this webinar, hosted by Ian Ramos and Joe McDaniel from Vispero, we discuss the features of all the TOPAZ models and the benefits each can give in specific situations. We will dive deep into how these powerful tools to help those challenged by vision loss. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: Features of all TOPAZ models. How to determine which features fit your needs best. How adding speech capability can take you further. | Meeting ID: 836 4264 4156 | Passcode: 887513 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83642644156#,,,,*887513# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83642644156?pwd=dWF6cVBpMFRVVEMvRU9QeUVIYmdMdz09#success
5) Train-The-Trainers Opportunity: Supporting Consumers Who Are Deafblind with Bluetooth QWERTY Keyboards on iOS | Technology Research and Innovation Center (TRIC) | Cost: $50.00
September 29th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | The Technology Research and Innovation Center (TRIC) announces Supporting Your Consumers Who Are Deafblind Using QWERTY Keyboards on iOS VoiceOver on an iPhone has been a popular access solution for many years. Many users also include accessories to utilize the operating system (iOS) more comfortably. Consumers who use speech, individuals who use a Mantis Q40 and for those who prefer typing on a QWERTY keyboard instead of a braille one, QWERTY keyboards often assist them in using their iOS device more efficiently. Demonstrations will be provided. Updated for iOS 16, topics in this seminar include: Reasons why a Deafblind individual may benefit from a Bluetooth keyboard over other access methods. Settings to consider when working with different parts of the Deafblind population. How to set up customized keyboard commands and why this may be necessary. On-screen sign language interpretation, voice over and captioning will be provided. This webinar will be taught by Scott Davert, an expert in the area of Deafblind technology. Time: 1 to 3 PM EDT. Cost: $50.00. CEU's available - please request when you register. Contact Information: If you have any questions about the webinar or registration, please contact us at: PLD@hknc.org 📧️. Please use this link to register and pay:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_7tSKJ78DRRilAXUqh31Ozw
6) iOS 16 Review And Editing Voice Memos | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
October 1st 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Every year we look for accessibility improvements in our i-devices. See what is new in this latest version of the Apple operating system. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
7) U.S. Access Board Webinar: Accessible Amusement Rides
October 6th 2022 | 1PM PT, 2PM MT, 3PM CT, 4PM ET, 8PM GMT | Up and down, around and around! Amusement rides are enjoyed by many people, including those with disabilities. The 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design and the Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility Standards address accessibility for permanent amusement rides. The next webinar in the U.S. Access Board's free monthly series will take place October 6 from 2:30 - 4:00 p.m. (ET) and review scoping and technical provisions for amusement rides. For newly designed and constructed rides, scoping provisions provide the option to choose the type of access that is suitable for a particular ride or experience. Three options for providing accessibility onto a ride device include a wheelchair space on the ride, a ride seat designed for transfer, or a transfer device. This session will review the technical provisions for each type of access required on rides. Additionally, U.S. Access Board staff Bill Botten and Bobby Stinnette will address requirements for accessible routes, que lines, parking and passenger loading areas, signage, sales, and service counters. Visit Great Lakes ADA Center's AccessibilityOnline webpage for more information or to register. All webinars include video remote interpreting (VRI) and real-time captioning. Questions can be submitted in advance of the session or can be posed during the live webinar. Webinar attendees can earn continuing education credits. The webinar series is hosted by the ADA National Network in cooperation with the Board. Archived copies of previous Board webinars are available on the site:
https://www.accessibilityonline.org/ao/session/?id=111019
8) Virtual Career Fair During Blind Equality Achievement Month | National Federation of the Blind
October 26th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Join us Wednesday, October 26, 2022, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Eastern via Zoom for our fall virtual career fair. There is no charge for employers or job seekers. The National Federation of the Blind career fairs are events for blind people seeking jobs to connect with employers, and an opportunity for employers to seek more talent for their teams. The career fairs may be in-person or virtual and provide additional trainings for developing skills such as interviewing tips. Join us for the next career fair. Registration required by October 12, 2022. For more information on the career fair, please contact Dick Davis, Employment Committee Chair, at dickblind@gmail.com 📧️, John Dubay, Employer Liaison, at jdubay@leadsatscale.com, or Rachel Kuntz at rkuntz@saavi.us 📧️. About National Federation of the Blind Employment Initiatives
With opportunities to compete in the workplace in terms of equality, blind people can achieve careers based on their dreams, talents, and abilities. The National Federation of the Blind connects working-age blind people with opportunities and resources to compete in the workplace on terms of equality. For more information, contact Maurice Peret, NOMCT, Coordinator of Career Mentoring & Employment Programs, at mperet@nfb.org or (410) 659-9314 📱️, extension 2350.
Registration for Job Seekers: https://nfb.org/form/career-fair-jobseeker-registration
Registration for Employers: https://nfb.org/form/career-fair-employer-registration
9) WordPress Accessibility Day
November 2nd 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | WordPress Accessibility Day is a free, 24-hour online event scheduled to start at 15:00 UTC (11:00 US Eastern, 8:00 US Pacific) on Wednesday, November 2nd. The conference will be held virtually so you can present from anywhere worldwide. Here are some other important things to know about speaking at WordPress Accessibility Day: We will provide an accessible speaking experience — the presentation platform will be screen reader-friendly, and we will have captions and sign language interpretation available for speakers as needed. You don't have to have speaking experience! We would love to have first-time speakers present and can support you in presenting as needed. You don't have to be an "expert" or have any special certifications. Anyone with something to share related to accessibility on the web or in WordPress is invited to apply. You can share your journey learning about accessibility or your experience as a person with a disability even if you don't think you've reached the end of that journey yet. Your topic doesn't have to be explicitly WordPress related. While we want some talks specific to WordPress and want to encourage developer-level presentations, not all talks need to be specific to WordPress. General website accessibility talks with broad applications for websites of all types and people of all levels of technical abilities are welcome. If you have an idea for a talk to share your knowledge or experiences about the intersection of WordPress and accessibility, we'd love to hear it!
https://wpaccessibility.day/weekend-plans-apply-to-speak-at-wp-accessibility-day/
10) AT Gifts for the Holidays | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Our annual look at gadgets and gizmos that will make your holiday season a successful one. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
11) ACB's 2022 Audio Description Awards Gala
November 29 2022 | The American Council of the Blind (ACB) proudly announces the second annual Audio Description Awards Gala on November 29, 2022. The Gala will once again celebrate outstanding achievements in audio description in media and expand awareness of its benefits. In recent years there has been enormous success in expanding audio description for audiences who are blind, low vision, or have other sensory disabilities that create barriers to full inclusion in visual media. "The Audio Description Awards Gala will celebrate the best of the best within the art and science of inclusive audio-described media," said Eric Bridges, ACB's Executive Director. "Together we will work to expand awareness of the transformative value that audio description brings to the lives of people with disabilities:"
https://acb.org/save-the-date-2022-AD-Awards
12) Blind Health Expo | The Accessible Pharmacy
December 2nd 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | The Accessible Pharmacy Blind Health Expo will be the largest virtual expo of healthcare information, products, services, and medication for individuals who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision. Join thousands of other attendees and register now for free!
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/blind-health-expo/
13) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
December 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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
✍ List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. Fill out this short form to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-buy-sell-trade or learn more on the Top Tech Tidbits website.
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: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ Dolphin Friends Program
If you work for a non-profit, charity or society that provides services to people with visual impairments, we invite you to take part in our Dolphin Friends Program. Dolphin will outfit your center with assistive technology solutions that can benefit your clients who need to remain independent, are trying to sharpen their technology skills for employment and more. Learn more about becoming a Dolphin Friend.
https://info.yourdolphin.com/join-dolphin-friends
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Sponsor: Clusiv
➜ Looking For Blind Job-Seekers Wanting To Advance Their Salaries, Careers And Digital Accessibility For The Blind
Are you interested in learning new tech skills and working remotely while earning a competitive salary? At Clusiv.io we have created the world's first digitally accessible e-Learning platform built by the blind, and built for the blind. Visit the link provided and request Clusiv through your Vocational Rehab counselor for lifetime access to our e-Learning platform with courses such as Business Applications, JAWS, and more:
https://clusiv.io/
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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 from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Control the climate of your home independently! The VIP 3000 is a universal heating — cooling talking thermostat This accessible digital thermostat is specifically designed to offer audio playback of indoor temperature, temperature settings and programming instructions so blind and visually impaired users can independently & precisely manage their indoor comfort. Don't over pay. Read more at:
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 every day 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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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 Next Generation in Accessibility
Need to quickly access a distant computer with minimal fuss? Need to quickly convert image documents into readable text? Today's students and working professionals demand more of their technology. Employers expect more of their workforce. Pneuma Solutions is bridging the gap using the best in machine learning to connect you to your environment when you need it, how you need it. Give us a try, and experience accessibility on a whole new level:
https://pneumasolutions.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
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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Combine Learning And Gaming For A Fun Braille Adventure With Polly!
APH and Thinkerbell Labs are excited to introduce Polly, complete with customizable UEB lessons, songs, games, and stories! Join our waiting list to know when Polly is available:
https://www.aph.org/polly-wait-list/
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
➜ Announcing The Availability of the 60 Inch Locking Titanium Telescopic Cane
Why hasn't somebody thought to produce a locking telescopic cane in multiple sizes? For a whole lot of years! Why hasn't there been accurate talking medical products where the thermometer gives you the same reading twice? And why do we get devices marketed to us where the USB port has a life expectancy of months rather than years? Haven't figured out how to solve the last one yet, but the first two, we have. Call Barry at: (617) 969-7500 📱️, or by email at barry.scheur@gmail.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, affordable, 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
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: That Real Blind Tech Show
➜ That Real Blind Tech Show Episode 96: We Got More Resolutions, ACB Style!
It's a fully packed That Real Blind Tech show lair. Join us as we recap this year's ACB Resolutions. We chime in with all of our opinions about this year's resolutions, and as usual some hilarity ensues. You will not want to miss both AirPods issues that take place on this episode. We are adding do not listen to That Real Blind Tech show on the bus as we are not responsible for the stares you will receive when laughing or cackling like a lunatic!
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-96-we-got-more-resolutions-acb-style
Sponsor Since: August 11th 2022
Website: https://blindtechshow.com/ 🌐
Email: ThatRealBlindTechShow@gmail.com 📧️
Social: Facebook Page | Facebook Group | Twitter
Listen: Apple Podcasts | Audible | Google Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube
Hosts: Brian Fischler | Ed Plumacher | Allison Meloy | Jenine Stanley
Goals: We want to educate you on the latest tech for the blindness community. You'll learn what is worth keeping and what you need to return. Our goals are: To inform, inspire and educate our audience. Feature guests and products that bring you value. Continuously improve and deliver the best content.
About: A podcast discussing the good & bad of assistive technology for the low vision & totally blind. No longer focused on just Apple VoiceOver technology. That Real Blind Tech show covers all the fantastic talking tech and gadgets out there for the low vision and blindness community. Common topics include Apple's VoiceOver, JAWS, Microsoft Narrator, NVDA, Amazon Alexa and VoiceView, Google Assistant and Android. Basically, if a device can talk to you, we are going to be talking about it. That Real Blind Tech Show will not only educate you, but it will also make you laugh. Listeners are encouraged to not use treadmills or drink hot coffee while listening to our show, or accidents can and have occurred. Dishes have been broken while listening to That Real Blind Tech Show, and while we are responsible for the laughs, we are in no way responsible for the injuries or bills that pile up. Remember to keep it Real and also don't believe anything you hear on That Real Blind Tech Show.
Home | Episodes | Blog | Contact | Subscribe
Sponsor: Aira
➜ Webinar: Discovering Aira on the Blind Shell | September 27th 2022 at 2:00 PM ET
Join us for this monthly series featuring Diane Ducharme of BlindShell USA and Jenine Stanley of Aira as they discover all there is to know about using Aira on the BlindShell Classic 2 phone:
https://aira.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_g9O7k3RaR7mYYT1ODnm0cA
Sponsor Since: August 4th 2022
Website: https://aira.io/ 🌐
Download the App: Apple App Store | Google Play Store
Plans and Pricing: https://aira.io/pricing/
Phone: NA: +1.800.835.1934 📱️ | AU: +1.800.765.096 📱️ | UK: +0.800.046.5668 📱️ | NZ: +1.800.425.451 📱️
Text Message: NA: +1.858.242.4457 📲 | AU: +61.488.839.767 📲 | UK: +44.149.320.2474 📲
Email: support@aira.io 📧️
Social: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
About: Aira's mission is to remove barriers and make the world more accessible with visual interpreting.
We provide a live, human-to-human professional assistance service, an accommodation or productivity tool, that enhances independence by delivering on-demand, skilled and reliable visual interpreting for just about any task. Using the powerful combination of a camera and the Aira app on someone's device of 'choice', a professionally-trained agent will assist by visually interpreting what is in the camera's view or on screen, from describing to reading, from explaining to navigating - just about anything, safely and securely. Aira supports a growing range of devices including smart and tactile button phones, desktop computers and soon, wearables.
Whether you are involved in the work of business, the work of school or the work of life, Aira enhances everyday efficiency, engagement, and independence. Used by employees and customers of hundreds of organizations including airports, banks, the largest software companies, financial firms, retailers and universities, we invite you to join the community, access the Aira app today and try it for free.
https://aira.io/download-and-try-it/
Step One: Subscribe and Download. Pick the plan that lets you explore on your terms and on your time, sign up in a few minutes, and download the Aira app to your smartphone. Plans shown are for the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Add or cancel at any time.
Step Two: Connect with an Aira Agent. On the first call, connect with one of our certified, specially-trained Agents and learn how everything works.
Step Three: Real-time Assistance. At the touch of a button, Aira delivers instant access to visual information, when and where you want it.
Sponsor: Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
➜ Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore: Touch Tomorrow in Today's Products
Serving blind people since 1999, we're a family-owned, forward-thinking company offering both tried-and-true and exciting new products for blind and low vision consumers. We design and carry self-voicing educational software, Braille supplies, talking gadgets, adapted household items, tactile card and board games, audible toys and gift ideas. Passionate about innovation, we've also created dozens of products from scratch when a suitable solution did not exist. Shop online at http://www.braillebookstore.com/ and enjoy fast, free shipping.
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: http://www.braillebookstore.com/ 🌐
Phone (Toll Free): (800) 987-1231 📱️
Fax (Toll Free): (800) 985-1231 ░
Email: Sales@BrailleBookstore.com 📧️
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time.
About: Welcome to Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore. We have been supplying products to blind people and their families since 1999. We offer thousands of Braille books, toys, games, kitchen aids, and talking products. We have unbeatable prices, fast, free shipping, and great customer service! We have tons of Braille books and cool products to choose from; so grab a cup of coffee, relax, and we'll give you a quick tour:
Products:
➜ Timekeeping
➜ Housewares
➜ On The Go
➜ Low Vision Products
➜ Toys and Games
➜ Gift Shop
➜ Braille Workshop
➜ Braille Bookstore
➜ Greeting Cards
➜ Copy Center
➜ Computer Lab
➜ Popular Products
➜ New Products
If you need some fresh ideas or have questions, you can also check out our Shopping Guides.
Sponsor: Fable
➜ Free and Accessible Training for the Tech Sector
Fable Pathways helps you gain the skills that you need to work in the tech sector with a free, accessible, and on-demand program. Learn from industry leaders with disabilities to take your career to the next level, like Kelly Ford, Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, who introduces GitHub and VS Code using a screen reader. Spend less time and energy trying to access courses with your assistive technology and focus on the content that matters to you, with Fable Pathways' accessible platform. Sign up today!
https://www.fablepathways.com/
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: https://fablepathways.com/ 🌐
Email: community@makeitfable.com 📧️
Phone: (888) 212-3532 📱️ Extension 810
About: Just like curb cuts help everyone get on and off sidewalks, designing digital products with accessibility in mind helps make the internet more accessible for everyone. Fable is an accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities. Fable connects people with disabilities to accessibility managers, user researchers, designers, and developers to build incredible and accessible user experiences.
Opportunities:
➜ Fable Pathways: Fable Pathways is a free skill development program for people with disabilities interested in working in the tech sector. Sign up to take your career to the next level. Courses include "Getting started in web development" taught by Kelly Ford, a screen reader user, and Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, and "Becoming a manager" taught by Fable's Head of Accessibility Innovation, Kate Kalcevich. Instructors are subject matter experts in their fields and have lived experience with disability. Pathways courses are free, self-paced and assistive-technology-friendly. Sign up now at https://fablepathways.com/.
➜ Fable's Community of Accessibility Testers: Work from home to contribute to real changes in digital accessibility and make the internet a more accessible place for everyone. Ever leave a website because it was too hard to navigate? Because it was missing button labels? Because it didn't respond to voice commands? Us too. Our community of testers who use assistive technologies work from home and contribute to real changes in digital accessibility with recognizable brands. Earn money to share your feedback on websites and apps of your favorite brands and work with companies that care. No experience required and no resume required. Fable is looking for assistive technology users in the USA and Canada to work the hours that they want, from the comfort of their own homes. Learn more at https://fablepathways.com/community/.
Your Name Here
0 of 18 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are currently 0 of 18 packages available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, September 15, 2022 - Volume 876
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.
Subscribers: 7,459 Opt-In Subscribers were sent this issue via email. 139 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: No Sponsorship Packages Currently Available. Please Consider Joining Our Waiting List Today! This Issue Made Possible By 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., Double Tap TV, Clusiv, Dolphin Computer Access, Fable, Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore, Aira and That Real Blind Tech Show.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Tidbit for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Apple's Killing the Password. Here's Everything You Need to Know (11.7% of all clicks.)
With iOS 16 and macOS Ventura, Apple is introducing passkeys — a more convenient and secure alternative to passwords:
https://www.wired.com/story/apple-passkeys-password-iphone-mac-ios16-ventura/
B.) Outlook Quick Steps Can Save Time And Are An Accessibility Win For Me | The Idea Place | Kelly Ford (7.4% of all clicks.)
Over the years I've assisted multiple people with Outlook and one feature that I commonly use stands above the rest as far as being a time saver that most people seem to have not discovered. Quick Steps allow you to take multiple actions on an email message with just a couple mouse clicks or a single key press:
https://theideaplace.net/outlook-quick-steps-can-save-time-and-are-an-accessibility-win-for-me/
C.) 6 Things Slowing Down Your Wi-Fi (And What to Do About Them) (6.3% of all clicks.)
The degree to which we rely on the internet for everything from work to entertainment means sluggish Wi-Fi speeds are excruciating. Here are some common causes of Wi-Fi issues and what to do about them:
https://www.howtogeek.com/820065/things-slowing-down-your-wi-fi-and-what-to-do-about-them/
D.) AccessWorld July 2022 (4.4% of all clicks.)
July updates include: Editor's Page: Back To School | Book Review Double Feature: Designing Documents For Appearance And The Beauty Of Dusk | A "More" Accessible Covid Test From The US Government | Vision Tech: Voxlens — A Single Line Of Code That Can Enable Developers To Make Charts And Graphs More Accessible | Scanning And Reading Documents With Onestep Reader And Voice Dream Scanner | Bookshare Comes To The Amazon Echo | A Review Of Senior Sidekick | A Review Of Voice Dream Reader For The Mac:
https://www.afb.org/aw/23/7
E.) GuideLights and Gadgets Announces The Availability of the 60 Inch Locking Titanium Telescopic Cane | Barry Scheur (4.2% of all clicks.)
I am very excited to announce that for the first time, a 60 inch version of the locking titanium telescopic cane is now available for purchase from GuideLights and Gadgets. We have underwritten the cost of manufacturing this length and it will only be available through GuideLights:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/116.html
2) Premium Subscriber Updates
Premium Subscribers will receive their next issue of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits for July, August and September 2022 on Monday, October 3rd 2022. Just a reminder that Premium Subscribers are entitled to all back issues, anytime they sign up. If you would like to receive a perfectly formatted and searchable Word Document with each of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits of the last 3 months listed neatly within it, please consider signing up here today for just $1 a month:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/premium-subscribers.html
4) Top Tech Tidbits Click-To-Vote Quick Poll #875 Results | Sponsored By: Top Tech Tidbits | 169 Votes
Question: Opinion Poll. This is not a test. As a screen reader user, when I encounter an image on a web page that has no informational value, such as a spacer or decorative image, I, personally, would PREFER that the web page do the following:
C.) Include the ALT attribute within the image tag and identify it as a non-informational image. Example: alt="Decoration."
(76 Votes / 45% of all clicks.)
A.) Include no ALT attribute within the image tag at all.
(51 Votes / 30% of all clicks.)
B.) Include the ALT attribute within the image tag but leave it blank. Example: alt=""
(42 Votes / 25% of all clicks.)
Poll Results Link: https://bit.ly/ttt-poll875-results
5) Top Tech Tidbits Weekly Scramble
The Top Tech Tidbits Weekly Scramble presents a single word or phrase related to adaptive or assistive technology whose letters have been scrambled. Can you put the letters back in the proper order to determine this week's word? Check your work next week where we'll provide the answer along with a new challenge.
LAST WEEK'S SCRAMBLE: IPLOAECNMC = COMPLIANCE
NEW SCRAMBLE: RRREDECSNEEA =
6) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: How To Create Basic Rules in Outlook
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/117.html
7) Dolphin SuperNova Power Tip: How To Start SuperNova With The Same Setup Every Time
Courtesy of Dolphin Computer Access:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/118.html
8) New Accessibility Features Are Coming To Android Devices
Android is introducing new features to improve accessibility, personalization, and productivity across various devices:
https://coolblindtech.com/new-accessibility-features-are-coming-to-android-devices/
9) What's New In iOS 16 Accessibility For Blind And Deafblind Users | AppleVis | Scott Davert
I'm back yet again. Just like in years past, September brings us a new major release of iOS. This latest edition includes many mainstream changes such as a revamped Lock screen; enhancements to privacy and safety features; Focus Mode enhancements; new functionality in Messages and Mail; along with many other improvements. For Apple's official list of iOS 16 features and changes, see this webpage which Highlights many. A lot of articles will cover these changes in detail, but far fewer will cover the accessibility enhancements and features for individuals who are blind or deafblind:
https://www.applevis.com/blog/whats-new-ios-16-accessibility-blind-deafblind-users
10) The Top New Features in Apple's iOS and iPadOS 16
The latest iPhone update is now available for download, complete with a revamped lock screen, editable Messages, and more:
https://www.wired.com/story/apple-iphone-ios-16-ipados-16-new-features/
11) Apple Releases WatchOS 9 | Bringing New and Revamped Watch Faces | A New Medications App | More Voices for VoiceOver | And More
Apple has released WatchOS 9, mostly bringing iterative enhancements to existing features rather than big changes:
https://www.applevis.com/blog/apple-releases-watchos-9-bringing-new-revamped-watch-faces-new-medications-app-more-voices
12) iOS 16 Has 2 New Security Features for Worst-Case Scenarios
Safety Check and Lockdown Mode give people in vulnerable situations ways to quarantine themselves from acute risks:
https://www.wired.com/story/apple-ios-16-safety-check-lockdown-mode/
13) iOS 16 RC Tidbits: New Boot Chime For iPhone 14 Pro, Crash Detection API, More
Another new feature coming to iPhone 14 Pro models is a boot chime. More specifically, users will have the option to make the iPhone play a sound every time the device is turned on or off as part of the iOS accessibility features:
https://9to5mac.com/2022/09/07/ios-16-tidbits-boot-chime-crash-detection-api/
14) What Is eSIM and Does My Carrier Support It?
We're finally witnessing the death of physical SIM cards. The new iPhone 14 requires eSIM for mobile networking, and it's only a matter of time before other smartphones follow suit. Unfortunately, your carrier may not support eSIM yet:
https://www.reviewgeek.com/128893/what-is-esim-and-does-my-carrier-support-it/
15) 4 Ways to Sell or Trade In Your Old iPhone
If you plan to upgrade to one of Apple's new models, these tips will help you to get the maximum resale value for your current phone:
https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-trade-in-or-sell-your-iphone/
16) Mosen at Large Episode 197: iOS 16, Demo And Explanation Of Some Of Its New Features
While you can still find this episode in our Featured Podcasts section just as you do every week we wanted to highlight this particular episode of Mosen at Large because it devotes nearly two hours to explaining as well as demonstrating many of the new features found in iOS 16, many of which will be of great interest to many in the blindness community:
https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/c72aa07b/ios-16-demo-and-explanation-of-some-of-its-new-features
17) The Accessibility Bugs Introduced and Resolved in iOS 16 for Blind and Low Vision Users
Apple released iOS 16 to the public on Monday, September 12th 2022. As is their tradition for the major iOS release of the year, they have posted to the AppleVis website a list of the VoiceOver, low vision, and Braille bugs which they believe will be introduced in iOS 16; as well as details of the pre-existing bugs which they believe to be resolved:
https://applevis.com/blog/accessibility-bugs-introduced-resolved-ios-16-blind-low-vision-users
18) iOS 16.1 Beta 1: Here Are All Of The New Features And Changes
iOS 16.1 is here and available to download for developer beta testers. As we expected, the update includes a number of changes and features. These include updates to features already included in iOS 16, the addition of features announced at WWDC in June, and more. Head below for the full roundup:
https://9to5mac.com/2022/09/14/ios-16-1-changes-features/
19) Make Google Search Far Better With 12 Useful Chrome Extensions
Google Search is incredibly powerful, but you can beef it up a bit with the help of Chrome extensions. Here are 12 of the most useful:
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/google-search-better-chrome-extensions/
20) Telstra's New Haptic Tablet Prototype Could Bring Vision Impaired AFL Fans Closer To The Game
This device has the potential to make live, in person sport much more accessible to those who cannot see the action. Specifically, it will help users track the ball on the field:
https://www.gizmodo.com.au/2022/09/telstra-touch-and-track/
21) So Long PixelBook? I Can Live With That.
Kevin Tofel explains the Google PixelBook is going away but that there are a good number of viable options for high-end Chromebooks on the market:
https://www.aboutchromebooks.com/news/google-pixelbook-canceled/
22) Tactile Point Symbol Slate
APH is currently seeking field evaluators for the Tactile Point Symbol Slate. This unique slate can be used by teachers, braille transcribers, and students for preparing and embellishing tactile displays, worksheets, charts, artwork, and more. More information and a chance to sign up are at:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/test-a-product/
23) Student Career Development Series
The inaugural Teach Access Career Development series will feature guest speakers from EY, Walmart, World Institute on Disability, American Foundation for the Blind, VMWare, Microsoft, and the U.S. Department of Labor. All sessions will take place virtually on Zoom from 12:00pm-1:00pm Eastern Time (9:00am-10:00am Pacific Time). Note, you will need to register for the Zoom sessions separately once you registered for the series. Register at:
https://teachaccess.org/career-development-series/
24) Chrome Accessibility Video Series | Do You Use ChromeVox + A Chromebook At Work?
Have you found Chromebook / ChromeOS to be beneficial in your professional life? If so, Google would love to hear from you. They are looking for people to share their stories in an external facing Google video. Time commitment would be a one-day shoot with a film crew in your city. If you are interested in participating, please answer the following questions:
https://t.co/iMbyv2QFpb
25) Get Crisp Clear Voice Recordings From Audio and Video With LALAL.AI
Please note that this solution has not been tested for accessibility. Clear up voice recordings in an instant and extract the information you need with LALAL.AI:
https://www.makeuseof.com/lalalai-voice-cleaner/
26) Winamp 5.9 Final Released After Years Of Development
Two months ago, the developers of the audio player Winamp released a first release candidate of Winamp 5.9. The player, which many thought dead and buried, came back to life and users started to take notice again:
https://www.ghacks.net/2022/09/10/winamp-5-9-final-released-after-years-of-development/
27) From Brian Vogel: Controlling Your Email Traffic from Groups.io - Plus using the Group Archive
This information may be of value to anyone who is subscribed to any group from Groups.io:
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/2584
28) Forget Silicon. This Computer Is Made of Fabric
The jacket can raise and lower its own hood — without chips or batteries — and might one day help disabled wearers move:
https://www.wired.com/story/fabric-nylon-computer-jacket-disability-aid/
29) New Mailing List From APH Regarding The Dynamic Tactile Device
APH has created an email communication channel for anyone interested in receiving the latest information about the innovative Dynamic Tactile Device. Visit this link to subscribe:
https://bit.ly/3RBMMrq
30) Geeking Out With The NLS E-Reader | Deborah Armstrong | Tech-VI List
Disclaimer: I am not an NLS insider, and I have no special relationship with Humanware. What I am is a curious consumer with a programming background. Some of this information may not be completely accurate but I've tried to the best of my ability to eliminate any errors in the below. I only have the HumanWare e-Reader, so I'm unsure how much this applies to the E-Reader from Zoomax:
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/2616
31) NV Access In Process For September 8th 2022
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-8th-september/
32) What to Consider Before Picking Up a Hearing Aid at Best Buy or CVS
Access to over-the-counter hearing aids means a cheaper and more accessible alternative to $8,000 devices. But issues that vex the tech industry as a whole could also be at play here:
https://www.pcmag.com/news/what-to-consider-before-picking-up-a-hearing-aid-at-best-buy-or-cvs
33) Review of The Envision Glasses | YouTube | Unsightly Opinions | 22 Minutes
This video attempts to answer the question, "Are Envision's Blind Google Glasses Something You Need?"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EPXSqBkB3ik
34) Maryland State Library Agency Library for the Blind and Print Disabled September / October Newsletter
In this issue: Collection Highlights | New Releases | Youth Digest | Assistive Tech News | Recent Podcasts
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDLIBRARY/bulletins/32922b2
35) Top 5 Tips For ZoomText Beginners
If you're a beginner, here are our top tips for getting the most out of ZoomText:
https://www.sightandsound.co.uk/top-5-tips-for-zoomtext-beginners/
36) Bath University Develops Groundbreaking Technology For The Visually Impaired
Researchers at the University of Bath are looking at how they might be able to help those who are visually impaired to effectively 'see' with their tongue. A device is being developed which translates an image of the world around us into a moving pattern onto the user's tongue. By combining the device with artificial intelligence technology, it has the potential to change the lives of those who are sight impaired:
https://www.itv.com/news/westcountry/2022-09-08/university-develops-groundbreaking-technology-for-the-visually-impaired
37) Accessibility Support Phone Lines You Should Know
With a welcomed emphasis on accessibility and inclusion, numerous companies now offer specialized support services for customers with vision loss. They are there to help you get the most out of their products and to ensure your devices are set right to accommodate your needs. This is an effort we greatly appreciate and are delighted to spread the word:
https://ophthalmicedge.org/patient/accessibility-support-phone-lines-you-should-know/
38) Recording | 4th Annual TTJ Tech Summit | Next Level, New Heights | August 27th 2022 | YouTube
Watch the 4th Annual TTJ Tech Summit here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C_zHnQ2M-bM
39) Designers Craft Braille-Based Instrument For Visually Impaired Musicians
A trio of Korean designers have crafted an innovative new instrument that's likely to appeal to a new generation of visually impaired musicians. The Vitar, short for "visual guitar," was developed by Eojin Roh, Seonjin Baek, and Yujeong Shin. While few instruments exist today that are specifically catered to the visually impaired, the Vitar is servicing a populace of musicians who respond especially well to auditory stimulation:
https://edm.com/gear-tech/braille-based-instrument-visually-impaired-musicians
40) What's New in JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion 2023 Public Beta
https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/PublicBeta
41) Master Your Mantis Q40 | YouTube Playlist from APH
APH has uploaded ten videos covering various features of this 40-Cell braille display with a QWERTY keyboard and it is likely that the number of videos in this playlist will only increase:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUj6DcM1nN3GKpF2QB1b0LQlv0oA8_Ztd
42) Inclusive Design 24 #ID24, a Free, 24-hour, Virtual Accessibility Conference | September 21st 2022
Whether you're new to accessibility or an expert wanting to learn more about a specific topic, #ID24 has 24 talks you'll be interested in. This free, 24-hour virtual accessibility conference is hosted on YouTube and starts at 23:30 UTC on the 21st of September. You can pick and choose which sessions you want to view, from more technical talks like Rabab Gomaa's "The Recipe for Making Accessible Widgets!" to talks about overarching accessibility theories like Kate Every's "Dangerous Design: Why We Need to Think about Design Ethics." Also, Rachael Bradley Montgomery and Vispero's Matt Ater will be presenting a session called "Tips and Tradeoffs to Designing Accessible Escape Rooms." Save the date and check out the complete schedule:
https://www.tpgi.com/inclusive-design-24-a-24-hour-virtual-accessibility-conference/
43) Google Announces Accessibility Updates That Help Disabled People 'Get More Done And Have Fun'
In a post published on its Keyword blog last week, Google announced an important update to its Sound Notifications accessibility feature on Android that was introduced almost two years ago. The update is amongst a bevy of other new functionality designed to help Android users "get more done and have fun:"
https://www.forbes.com/sites/stevenaquino/2022/09/09/google-announces-accessibility-updates-that-help-disabled-people-get-more-done-and-have-fun/?sh=63c1de3d1957
44) Chinese Scientists Say New Device Mimics Sense Of Touch 'In High Definition'
Researchers say it could make it easier for blind people to read and write, help astronauts feel through thick gloves and let avatars shake hands in the metaverse. The technology is part of a project by tech giant Tencent to improve user experience in films, gaming and video calls:
https://www.scmp.com/news/china/science/article/3192017/chinese-scientists-say-new-device-mimics-sense-touch-high
45) What Is L5 'Precision Dual Frequency GPS', Why Is Apple Using It, And Do You Need It?
Apple is packing 'precision dual-frequency GPS' into the iPhone 14 Pro and the Apple Watch Ultra. But what is it, and what benefits will it bring?
https://www.zdnet.com/article/what-is-l5-precision-dual-frequency-gps-why-is-apple-using-it-and-do-you-need-it/#ftag=RSSbaffb68
46) How to Get Notifications When New Startup Apps Are Added to Windows 11
Windows 11 has an option that notifies you when a new startup app gets added. Here's how to enable and customize it:
https://www.makeuseof.com/windows-11-startup-app-notifications/
47) Best Microphone for Zoom: According to the CNET Staff Who Use Them
Online meetings are vital for remote workers, and having the best microphone helps everyone communicate effectively:
https://www.cnet.com/tech/best-microphone-for-zoom-according-to-the-cnet-staff-who-use-them/#ftag=CAD590a51e
48) Enhanced Braille Ready Format (EBRF) Working Group
The DAISY Consortium, in association with the American Printing House for the Blind, has established a working group for the development of the Enhanced Braille Ready Format (EBRF). For more information and to join the working group, visit the EBRF page on the DAISY website:
https://daisy.org/activities/projects/ebraille/
49) Braille Holiday Cards On Sale From Hadley Through December 9th 2022
Free Ground Shipping to all U.S. States. Call for international shipping rates. Sale ends December 9th 2022. In the Hadley tradition the 2022 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 joyful winter scene with two children tossing snowballs while a cheerful snowman looks on. For a tactile effect, the snowman and snowflakes have been embossed. About the artist: Nancy Iida has been a resident of Winnetka, IL where Hadley is headquartered, for 23 years. Nancy recently opened Heart Studio, an art studio in Winnetka, IL. She donates all proceeds from sales of her art to charity. Card and envelope imprinting available. Please allow 10 business days after the date your order is processed for delivery. Questions? Call (800) 323-4238 📱️ or email holidaycard@hadley.edu 📧️:
https://brailleholidaycard.hadley.edu/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Press Release or Other News item for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) CBS Commits to Better Disability Representation On TV
CBS is committing to feature more actors with disabilities:
https://www.disabilityscoop.com/2022/09/12/cbs-commits-to-better-disability-representation-on-tv/30032/
2) Eric Damery Reflects on the Impact of JAWS and Shares How Some of Your Favorite Features Came to Be
After more than 28 years advocating for JAWS and other software, plus impacting the industry with countless contributions, Eric Damery has retired. Along with announcing the availability of Fusion Suite Public Beta and the approach of the 2023 release, we want to reflect on the impact of JAWS from Eric's perspective and discuss a few of its most significant features:
https://blog.freedomscientific.com/eric-damery-reflects-on-the-impact-of-jaws-and-shares-how-some-of-your-favorite-features-came-to-be/
3) Microsoft Launches Call For Low-Cost Assistive Tech Innovations To Advance Access In Low-Income Countries
The Microsoft AI for Accessibility program is calling for project proposals that advance equitable access to assistive technology in low- and middle-income countries, with the option to incorporate AI:
https://attoday.co.uk/microsoft-launches-call-for-low-cost-assistive-tech-innovations-to-advance-access-in-low-income-countries/
4) US Open to Unveil Action Audio in Semifinals For Impaired Audience
The broadcast technology, geared toward those with vision or hearing impairments, will be implemented in matches starting September 8th 2022:
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/sports/us-open-to-unveil-action-audio-in-semifinals-for-impaired-audience/2933770/
5) Why Alt Text Is Important and How to Write It Properly
If you run a website or post a lot on social media, you'll know that alt text is a very common feature now, solidifying the importance of accessibility across the digital landscape:
https://www.makeuseof.com/why-alt-text-important-how-to-write/
6) Artificial Intelligence's Impact On The Lives Of People With Disabilities
The 21st century has made many impossible things possible. It has taken us to a day where the physically impaired walk and the deaf hears and responds. It is not a miracle, but technology is making extraordinary changes:
https://www.analyticsinsight.net/artificial-intelligences-impact-on-the-lives-of-people-with-disabilities/
7) If You Have Sleep Apnea and a Medical Device Implant, Check Your CPAP Mask
Some sleep therapy masks made by Philips Respironics present a potential risk of serious injury for people with pacemakers or other metallic implants:
https://www.cnet.com/health/medical/if-you-have-sleep-apnea-and-a-medical-device-implant-check-your-cpap-mask/#ftag=CAD590a51e
8) Britain's First 10k Race For Visually-Impaired Runners Returns To Bristol
Great Bristol Run is staging the second annual official 10k race for blind and partially-sighted runners. On September 22nd 2022, runners will be taking on The Visually Impaired Runners 10k Challenge, the UK's only dedicated event for blind and partially-sighted runners:
https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/whats-on/britains-first-10k-race-visually-7561243
9) How To Make Telemedicine Work For Visually Impaired Patients
Telemedicine came into its own during the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the CARES Act, physicians could bill the same amount for a telemedicine visit with Medicare patients as they could for an in-person visit. And many commercial healthcare insurers followed suit, relaxing restrictions for telemedicine for most patients. This "points to the fact that now that telehealth is mainstream, it is essential that no group be left behind if at all possible," Jonathan Weiner, a professor of health policy and management and health informatics at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, tells Fierce Healthcare. "This would include patients with disabilities that impact their use of telehealth as well as those facing technical or financial access barriers. And while telehealth rates may have decreased since the peak of the pandemic, we aren't going back to the pre-COVID era. This mode of care is here to stay, and we must view these barriers as an important potential cause of healthcare disparities:"
https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/health-tech/make-telemedicine-work-visually-impaired
10) Telstra Unveils 5G Touch And Track Prototype: A New Way For Vision Impaired Australians To Experience Live AFL
This footy finals season Telstra is demonstrating how 5G technology and the power of their network can bring the magic of near real-time sporting action to Australia's vision impaired audience:
https://exchange.telstra.com.au/telstra-unveils-5g-touch-and-track-prototype-a-new-way-for-vision-impaired-australians-to-experience-live-afl/
11) Improving Services to Taxpayers With Visual Disabilities
Millions of U.S. taxpayers are visually impaired and unable to read print material in a standard font size. As a result of a settlement agreement between the IRS and the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) on July 10, 2020, the IRS agreed to develop a process for taxpayers to request post-filing tax notices in a variety of acceptable formats, including Braille and large print. (See IRS statement, July 15, 2020.) This settlement resolved a case brought forth by several blind taxpayers and NFB who alleged the IRS was in violation of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which prohibits individuals with a disability from being excluded from the participation in, being denied the benefits of, or being subjected to discrimination under any executive agency:
https://www.taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov/news/nta-blog-improving-services-to-taxpayers-with-visual-disabilities/
12) Liberty Global and Nuance Expand Voice-Enabled TV Services to Provide Accessibility for Visually Impaired Customers
New capabilities allow for UK customers to change channels and search guides simply using their voice, making access to programming and customer service requirements easier than ever:
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/liberty-global-and-nuance-expand-voice-enabled-tv-services-to-provide-accessibility-for-visually-impaired-customers-301620356.html
13) Because Every Vote Counts: Making Elections More Accessible
According to data released earlier this month, an estimated 1.95 million people with disabilities had trouble voting in the 2020 election. Today marks the beginning of Disability Voting Rights Week 2022, an annual effort coordinated by the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) to make sure disabled voters in every community across the country are registered, ready to vote and have access to the ballot. Additionally, it's a day to engage with candidates and community leaders on issues impacting people with disabilities and to discuss better accessibility inclusion programs:
https://blogs.microsoft.com/on-the-issues/2022/09/12/disability-voting-rights-week-index/
14) 30 Hikers Who Are Visually Impaired Focus On What's Possible
On the trail there's a common thread among these hikers who have lost some or all their vision: We can do a lot more than people might think:
https://www.rmpbs.org/blogs/rocky-mountain-pbs/hikers-who-are-visually-impaired-focus-on-whats-possible/
➜ Surveys
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related survey for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-survey or locate "Survey Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Surveys: From APH
Closes: Ongoing Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
2) Survey: Product Testing Opportunity: Tactile Point Symbol Slate
Closes: September 20th 2022 American Printing House for the Blind (APH) is currently seeking field evaluators for the Tactile Point Symbol Slate. Evaluators will be asked to use the prototype to design, create, and embellish tactile displays of their own choosing using a variety of media. Note: The number of available field-test prototypes is limited. If you are interested in possibly serving as a field evaluator, please complete the Tactile Point Symbol Slate field test opportunity survey by September 20th 2022 at:
https://bit.ly/3pNiSVs
3) Survey: Data Visualization Research at Boston College
Closes: September 22nd 2022 Hello, there! We are data visualization researchers at Boston College. We are currently studying how charts and graphs can be made more accessible for blind and low-vision users. For this, we are looking for people that meet the following requirements: blind or low-vision, screen reader user, in the USA, and at least 18 years or older. If this is you, please take part in our study! Your participation will help develop and improve different strategies to guide the exploration of charts. The study will take approximately 90 minutes. The study will be conducted online via a remote zoom call. We will compensate you with up to $50 in Amazon gift cards for your participation. To take part, send an email with the subject "Study Sign Up" to joynersh@bc.edu 📧️. If you have any questions, you can use the same address.
4) Survey: Seeking User Feedback On The Accessibility Of COVID And Home Diagnostics Tests | ACB On Behalf Of The National Institutes Of Health (NIH) And The Georgia Institute Of Technology
Closes: September 22nd 2022 Whether you have taken a COVID home test or not, your feedback is incredibly valuable to inform this research and improve all future forms of home diagnostic testing. Please help us gain more equitable access to at-home testing by taking 15-20 minutes to share your thoughts and experiences in response to this survey:
https://gatech.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bdqaz5GtByY4H1I
5) Survey: Robotics Institute at OSU is Testing A New Navigation Aid, The Optiband
Closes: October 1st 2022 The Robotics Institute at OSU is testing a new handheld navigation aid, the Optiband, which uses vibrations to help a user understand their environment better. The Optiband was designed with a blind stakeholder to be more than an obstacle avoidance device, and helps users gain spatial and depth perception. We are interested in talking to BVI persons about our device, and whether or not they are willing to test out a model of the device. We are running a study and are actively recruiting participants, to whom we will provide a device as well as cash compensation for their time. If you are interested or have any questions/concerns, please send an email to: bontulaa@oregonstate.edu 📧️ or send a text to (541)-360-9491 📱️.
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Podcast Episode for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-podcast-episode or locate "Podcast Episode Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) That Real Blind Tech Show Episode 98: Apple Far Out Recap, It's Time To Stand
September 7th 2022 | Join the entire That Real Blind Tech Show gang, Brian, Ed, Allison, and Jeanine for a fun light hearted recap of Apple's Far Out event. We discuss the new Apple Watches, iPhones, and Air Bud Pro two's. We also discuss the newly announced Bose Quiet Comfort Buds two. We discuss whether or not VoiceOver users should be installing iOS 16 or wait until the first few updates to the operating system drop. You will not want to miss the strange time one of us is receiving those It's time to stand watch notifications:
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-99-apple-recap-far-out-its-time-to-stand
2) Careers For The Blind Episode 49: Chief Accessibility Officer - Jeff Wissel
September 8th 2022 | Discussion with Jeff Wissel about Disability:IN and his position. Disability:IN's role in the disability and inclusion landscape of corporate America, the Disability:IN conference, and initiatives they are taking to advance the equality of people with disabilities in the work place. The certification body of Disability Owned Businesses, and the Procure Access Initiative, are two examples given in the podcast:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/careers-for-the-blind/id1527098674?i=1000578745839
3) Mosen at Large Episode 197: iOS 16, Demo And Explanation Of Some Of Its New Features
September 10th 2022https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/c72aa07b/ios-16-demo-and-explanation-of-some-of-its-new-features
4) Blind Abilities Episode 889: Tech Abilities: 5 More Perspectives on Apple's Far Out Event
September 10th 2022 | The much anticipated Far Out event from the Fruit Company called Apple was back on Wednesday and this group of 5 took it all in and got together in the Blind Abilities Studio to give their perspectives on the event, the new iPhone 14 line up, the 3 new Apple watches and the 2nd Generation Air Pods Pro. Serina Gilbert, Callie Gray, Seyoon Choi, Jesse Anderson and Jeff Thompson get to the core of the Apple event and dabble around the orchard with opinions, perspectives and some Apple picking. You can watch the entire Apple Far Out Event on Apple's YouTube Channel. Thanks for listening and leave us a message, give us some feedback, suggestions or just say Hi at info@BlindAbilities.com 📧️ or give us a call at (612) 367-6093 📱️, we would love to hear from you. Subscribe to the Blind Abilities Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts and check out all the podcasts on the web at BlindAbilities.com. Listen here:
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7632
5) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 92: Location Services
September 10th 2022 | In episode 92, we talk about an important setting on android which is location services. We show how to take a look at apps requesting location access and how to grant or prevent apps from tracking you. In our app of the week section, we demo DayBridge which is a Calendar App which can also become a social networking app. This episode can be found at:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqph9dac-8ljbfrsjpPzjr2O
6) Eyes on Success Episode 2237: Raising A Sighted Child
September 14th 2022 | What is it like to raise a sighted child when one of the parents is blind? That is the question Ron and Denise Miller asked of hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey back in 2015. We talked with the Miller's about our experiences raising sighted children and aired a show based on the discussion. Now, seven years later, we follow up with Ron to see how it's been going:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202237.htm
7) FSCast 220: Archive of the August 2022 FSOpenLine
September 14th 2022 | On the Archive of the August FSOpenLine, Ryan Jones, Glen Gordon, and Rachel Buchanan take your calls on a variety of topics including: Math in Braille with JAWS, switching Braille tables on the fly, Quick Keys in Word, efficiently reading Windows event logs, and why new JAWS versions are installed alongside old ones.
https://blog.freedomscientific.com/fscast-220-archive-of-the-august-2022-fsopenline/
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Webinar, Training Course or Event for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-event or locate "Webinar / Training Course Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Prep and Proof: Use Styles in Microsoft Word with JAWS | Vispero Group
September 15th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Want to learn how to format documents more efficiently with JAWS? Join us on Thursday, September 15th 2022 at Noon Eastern time for a live webinar, "Prep and Proof: Use Styles in Microsoft Word with JAWS."
Objectives: We'll provide an overview of what styles are and how to use them, plus show you how to: Apply existing Word styles to a document. Create new styles to customize formatting. Create a Table of Contents using styles. Freedom Scientific Presenters: Elizabeth Whitaker, Cathy Johnson, and Rachel Buchanan. ACVREP Credits: ACVREP credits will be available for those who attend the live webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Ztnha7AxRI2CCzyg4JUUwQ
2) Deliver Accessible Materials With EasyReader | Learn How to Make Learning Materials Talk! | Dolphin Computer Access
September 15th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | If you're working in an educational setting, get information about Dolphin's Free Accessible Book Reader for IOS, Android, Windows and Fire. You'll learn how it works with accessible libraries like Bookshare, CELA and NLS-BARD. Webinars scheduled through December, click to attend one that works with your schedule:
https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/webinars/83796448920
3) 13th Annual Inclusion in Science, Learning A New Direction, Conference on Disability (ISLAND)
September 16th 2022 | The 13th annual Inclusion in Science, Learning A New Direction, Conference on Disability (ISLAND) will be held virtually on Friday, September 16 and Saturday, September 17, 2022. All times on the schedule are in the eastern time zone. This year's conference will be hosted by Princeton University. We want to thank everyone in advance for your interest in attending the 2022 ISLAND conference. Also, on-line registration is now open for this year's conference. There is a $25 registration fee for registration if it is completed by September 1, 2021. Please be sure to check back as the conference nears for final program and other details. For questions regarding this year's ISLAND conference, please contact the conference organizers at island@princeton.edu 📧️. For more information regarding registration and other details, go to:
https://islandconference.org/
4) 13th Annual Inclusion in Science, Learning A New Direction, Conference on Disability (ISLAND)
September 17th 2022 | The 13th annual Inclusion in Science, Learning A New Direction, Conference on Disability (ISLAND) will be held virtually on Friday, September 16 and Saturday, September 17, 2022. All times on the schedule are in the eastern time zone. This year's conference will be hosted by Princeton University. We want to thank everyone in advance for your interest in attending the 2022 ISLAND conference. Also, on-line registration is now open for this year's conference. There is a $25 registration fee for registration if it is completed by September 1, 2021. Please be sure to check back as the conference nears for final program and other details. For questions regarding this year's ISLAND conference, please contact the conference organizers at island@princeton.edu 📧️. For more information regarding registration and other details, go to:
https://islandconference.org/
5) Outlook Emails with JAWS using Speech & Braille (ACVREP CE Approved) | Access Ingenuity
September 21st 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Rachel Reeves, Marisa Church, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity with Joe McDaniel from Vispero to explore some tips on using Microsoft Outlook with JAWS. This presentation benefits anyone who wants to know about using Outlook with JAWS while on a PC, with a QWERTY keyboard, Focus Braille Display, and the ElBraille. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: Efficient methods to use JAWS to work with more and lesser-known Outlook features like Ribbons, Quick Find, Quick Access Toolbar, and File tabs. Basic techniques to work with the Message list, navigate emails, and more. Additional tools such as Advanced Find, edit mail folders, and Message options. | Meeting ID: 846 2544 0710 | Passcode: 614312 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,84625440710#,,,,*614312# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84625440710?pwd=MVdzL3VnL1hWSVZ1SFZXUEMxSlprdz09#success
6) Digital Accessibility - Ask Me Anything (AMA) | TPGi
September 21st 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenters: Mark Miller, Director of Sales and Host of the Real People, Real Stories Podcast. Join TPGi for a live AMA event with Mark Miller. Mark has over 10 years of digital accessibility knowledge and has supported accessibility teams at all points in their journey. No matter where you are on your accessibility journey, there is always something new to learn. Get answers to your top accessibility questions:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-september-21-at-12pm-et-digital-accessibility-ask-me-anything-ama/
7) Inclusive Design 24 #ID24, a Free, 24-hour, Virtual Accessibility Conference
September 21st 2022 | 3:30PM PT, 4:30PM MT, 5:30PM CT, 6:30PM ET, 10:30PM GMT | Whether you're new to accessibility or an expert wanting to learn more about a specific topic, #ID24 has 24 talks you'll be interested in. This free, 24-hour virtual accessibility conference is hosted on YouTube and starts at 23:30 UTC on the 21st of September. You can pick and choose which sessions you want to view, from more technical talks like Rabab Gomaa's "The Recipe for Making Accessible Widgets!" to talks about overarching accessibility theories like Kate Every's "Dangerous Design: Why We Need to Think about Design Ethics." Also, Rachael Bradley Montgomery and Vispero's Matt Ater will be presenting a session called "Tips and Tradeoffs to Designing Accessible Escape Rooms." Save the date and check out the complete schedule:
https://www.tpgi.com/inclusive-design-24-a-24-hour-virtual-accessibility-conference/
8) Blindness & Diabetes Webinar: Dexcom vs Freestyle Libre | Accessible Pharmacy Services For The Blind
September 23rd 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Blindness and Diabetes Webinar: Dexcom vs Freestyle Libre. Please join Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind and University of Pennsylvania's Diabetes Education Center as we compare Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) devices available to our blind, deafblind, and low vision patients living with diabetes. We will be discussing differences between Dexcom and Freestyle Libre as well as their accessibility features. This webinar will have captioning and a live ASL interpreter. If you are unable to attend, please register to receive the webinar audio and video via email:
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/blindness-diabetes-webinar-dexcom-vs-freestyle-libre/
9) TOPAZ Family of Magnifiers: Powerful Visual Aids (ACVREP CE Approved) | Access Ingenuity
September 28th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | The TOPAZ family of desktop video magnifiers combines ease of use with powerful features to help people retain their independent lifestyle - reading, writing, viewing photographs and engaging in hobbies. All TOPAZ models are available in a range of monitor sizes and provide a clear, crisp picture with a wide range of magnification and color-coded controls. The ergonomic design provides exceptional reading comfort for hours of use in the home, office, or school. During this webinar, hosted by Ian Ramos and Joe McDaniel from Vispero, we discuss the features of all the TOPAZ models and the benefits each can give in specific situations. We will dive deep into how these powerful tools to help those challenged by vision loss. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: Features of all TOPAZ models. How to determine which features fit your needs best. How adding speech capability can take you further. | Meeting ID: 836 4264 4156 | Passcode: 887513 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83642644156#,,,,*887513# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83642644156?pwd=dWF6cVBpMFRVVEMvRU9QeUVIYmdMdz09#success
10) iOS 16 Review And Editing Voice Memos | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
October 1st 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Every year we look for accessibility improvements in our i-devices. See what is new in this latest version of the Apple operating system. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
11) U.S. Access Board Webinar: Accessible Amusement Rides
October 6th 2022 | 1PM PT, 2PM MT, 3PM CT, 4PM ET, 8PM GMT | Up and down, around and around! Amusement rides are enjoyed by many people, including those with disabilities. The 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design and the Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility Standards address accessibility for permanent amusement rides. The next webinar in the U.S. Access Board's free monthly series will take place October 6 from 2:30 - 4:00 p.m. (ET) and review scoping and technical provisions for amusement rides. For newly designed and constructed rides, scoping provisions provide the option to choose the type of access that is suitable for a particular ride or experience. Three options for providing accessibility onto a ride device include a wheelchair space on the ride, a ride seat designed for transfer, or a transfer device. This session will review the technical provisions for each type of access required on rides. Additionally, U.S. Access Board staff Bill Botten and Bobby Stinnette will address requirements for accessible routes, que lines, parking and passenger loading areas, signage, sales, and service counters. Visit Great Lakes ADA Center's AccessibilityOnline webpage for more information or to register. All webinars include video remote interpreting (VRI) and real-time captioning. Questions can be submitted in advance of the session or can be posed during the live webinar. Webinar attendees can earn continuing education credits. The webinar series is hosted by the ADA National Network in cooperation with the Board. Archived copies of previous Board webinars are available on the site:
https://www.accessibilityonline.org/ao/session/?id=111019
12) WordPress Accessibility Day
November 2nd 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | WordPress Accessibility Day is a free, 24-hour online event scheduled to start at 15:00 UTC (11:00 US Eastern, 8:00 US Pacific) on Wednesday, November 2nd. The conference will be held virtually so you can present from anywhere worldwide. Here are some other important things to know about speaking at WordPress Accessibility Day: We will provide an accessible speaking experience — the presentation platform will be screen reader-friendly, and we will have captions and sign language interpretation available for speakers as needed. You don't have to have speaking experience! We would love to have first-time speakers present and can support you in presenting as needed. You don't have to be an "expert" or have any special certifications. Anyone with something to share related to accessibility on the web or in WordPress is invited to apply. You can share your journey learning about accessibility or your experience as a person with a disability even if you don't think you've reached the end of that journey yet. Your topic doesn't have to be explicitly WordPress related. While we want some talks specific to WordPress and want to encourage developer-level presentations, not all talks need to be specific to WordPress. General website accessibility talks with broad applications for websites of all types and people of all levels of technical abilities are welcome. If you have an idea for a talk to share your knowledge or experiences about the intersection of WordPress and accessibility, we'd love to hear it!
https://wpaccessibility.day/weekend-plans-apply-to-speak-at-wp-accessibility-day/
13) AT Gifts for the Holidays | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Our annual look at gadgets and gizmos that will make your holiday season a successful one. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
14) ACB's 2022 Audio Description Awards Gala
November 29 2022 | The American Council of the Blind (ACB) proudly announces the second annual Audio Description Awards Gala on November 29, 2022. The Gala will once again celebrate outstanding achievements in audio description in media and expand awareness of its benefits. In recent years there has been enormous success in expanding audio description for audiences who are blind, low vision, or have other sensory disabilities that create barriers to full inclusion in visual media. "The Audio Description Awards Gala will celebrate the best of the best within the art and science of inclusive audio-described media," said Eric Bridges, ACB's Executive Director. "Together we will work to expand awareness of the transformative value that audio description brings to the lives of people with disabilities:"
https://acb.org/save-the-date-2022-AD-Awards
15) Blind Health Expo | The Accessible Pharmacy
December 2nd 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | The Accessible Pharmacy Blind Health Expo will be the largest virtual expo of healthcare information, products, services, and medication for individuals who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision. Join thousands of other attendees and register now for free!
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/blind-health-expo/
16) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
December 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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
✍ List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. Fill out this short form to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-buy-sell-trade or learn more on the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) FOR SALE: One Index Basic D V5 Embosser
Listing Date: 8/25/2022 | Price: $4,500.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Show used only. Like new. Only used twice to show less than 50 pages total embossed. Index Basic D V5 Embosser. Includes Travel Lock. Will be shipped free matter unless arrangements for other shipping is made. $4,500 obo. | Contact: Ashley via email at: crazy4chemistry@att.net 📧️ or by phone / text at: (972) 369-6010 📱️. |
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: Clusiv
➜ Looking For Blind Job-Seekers Wanting To Advance Their Salaries, Careers And Digital Accessibility For The Blind
Are you interested in learning new tech skills and working remotely while earning a competitive salary? At Clusiv.io we have created the world's first digitally accessible e-Learning platform built by the blind, and built for the blind. Visit the link provided and request Clusiv through your Vocational Rehab counselor for lifetime access to our e-Learning platform with courses such as Business Applications, JAWS, and more:
https://clusiv.io/
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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 from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Control the climate of your home independently! The VIP 3000 is a universal heating — cooling talking thermostat This accessible digital thermostat is specifically designed to offer audio playback of indoor temperature, temperature settings and programming instructions so blind and visually impaired users can independently & precisely manage their indoor comfort. Don't over pay. Read more at:
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 every day 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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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 Next Generation in Accessibility
Need to quickly access a distant computer with minimal fuss? Need to quickly convert image documents into readable text? Today's students and working professionals demand more of their technology. Employers expect more of their workforce. Pneuma Solutions is bridging the gap using the best in machine learning to connect you to your environment when you need it, how you need it. Give us a try, and experience accessibility on a whole new level:
https://pneumasolutions.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
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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Combine Learning And Gaming For A Fun Braille Adventure With Polly!
APH and Thinkerbell Labs are excited to introduce Polly, complete with customizable UEB lessons, songs, games, and stories! Join our waiting list to know when Polly is available:
https://www.aph.org/polly-wait-list/
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
➜ Announcing The Availability of the 60 Inch Locking Titanium Telescopic Cane
I am very excited to announce that for the first time, a 60 inch version of the locking titanium telescopic cane is now available for purchase from GuideLights and Gadgets. We have underwritten the cost of manufacturing this length and it will only be available through GuideLights. Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/116.html. To kick this off, we are offering a combo cane / waistpack package with an included cane holder. $100 for 50 and 54 inch cane/waistpack; $120 for the 60 inch combo. Call Barry for this new product at (617) 969-7500 📱️, or by email at barry.scheur@gmail.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, affordable, 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
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: That Real Blind Tech Show
➜ That Real Blind Tech Show Episode 96: We Got More Resolutions, ACB Style!
It's a fully packed That Real Blind Tech show lair. Join us as we recap this year's ACB Resolutions. We chime in with all of our opinions about this year's resolutions, and as usual some hilarity ensues. You will not want to miss both AirPods issues that take place on this episode. We are adding do not listen to That Real Blind Tech show on the bus as we are not responsible for the stares you will receive when laughing or cackling like a lunatic!
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-96-we-got-more-resolutions-acb-style
Sponsor Since: August 11th 2022
Website: https://blindtechshow.com/ 🌐
Email: ThatRealBlindTechShow@gmail.com 📧️
Social: Facebook Page | Facebook Group | Twitter
Listen: Apple Podcasts | Audible | Google Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube
Hosts: Brian Fischler | Ed Plumacher | Allison Meloy | Jenine Stanley
Goals: We want to educate you on the latest tech for the blindness community. You'll learn what is worth keeping and what you need to return. Our goals are: To inform, inspire and educate our audience. Feature guests and products that bring you value. Continuously improve and deliver the best content.
About: A podcast discussing the good & bad of assistive technology for the low vision & totally blind. No longer focused on just Apple VoiceOver technology. That Real Blind Tech show covers all the fantastic talking tech and gadgets out there for the low vision and blindness community. Common topics include Apple's VoiceOver, JAWS, Microsoft Narrator, NVDA, Amazon Alexa and VoiceView, Google Assistant and Android. Basically, if a device can talk to you, we are going to be talking about it. That Real Blind Tech Show will not only educate you, but it will also make you laugh. Listeners are encouraged to not use treadmills or drink hot coffee while listening to our show, or accidents can and have occurred. Dishes have been broken while listening to That Real Blind Tech Show, and while we are responsible for the laughs, we are in no way responsible for the injuries or bills that pile up. Remember to keep it Real and also don't believe anything you hear on That Real Blind Tech Show.
Home | Episodes | Blog | Contact | Subscribe
Sponsor: Aira
Sponsor Since: August 4th 2022
Website: https://aira.io/ 🌐
Download the App: Apple App Store | Google Play Store
Plans and Pricing: https://aira.io/pricing/
Phone: NA: +1.800.835.1934 📱️ | AU: +1.800.765.096 📱️ | UK: +0.800.046.5668 📱️ | NZ: +1.800.425.451 📱️
Text Message: NA: +1.858.242.4457 📲 | AU: +61.488.839.767 📲 | UK: +44.149.320.2474 📲
Email: support@aira.io 📧️
Social: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
About: Aira's mission is to remove barriers and make the world more accessible with visual interpreting.
We provide a live, human-to-human professional assistance service, an accommodation or productivity tool, that enhances independence by delivering on-demand, skilled and reliable visual interpreting for just about any task. Using the powerful combination of a camera and the Aira app on someone's device of 'choice', a professionally-trained agent will assist by visually interpreting what is in the camera's view or on screen, from describing to reading, from explaining to navigating - just about anything, safely and securely. Aira supports a growing range of devices including smart and tactile button phones, desktop computers and soon, wearables.
Whether you are involved in the work of business, the work of school or the work of life, Aira enhances everyday efficiency, engagement, and independence. Used by employees and customers of hundreds of organizations including airports, banks, the largest software companies, financial firms, retailers and universities, we invite you to join the community, access the Aira app today and try it for free.
https://aira.io/download-and-try-it/
Step One: Subscribe and Download. Pick the plan that lets you explore on your terms and on your time, sign up in a few minutes, and download the Aira app to your smartphone. Plans shown are for the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Add or cancel at any time.
Step Two: Connect with an Aira Agent. On the first call, connect with one of our certified, specially-trained Agents and learn how everything works.
Step Three: Real-time Assistance. At the touch of a button, Aira delivers instant access to visual information, when and where you want it.
Sponsor: Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
➜ Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore: Touch Tomorrow in Today's Products
Serving blind people since 1999, we're a family-owned, forward-thinking company offering both tried-and-true and exciting new products for blind and low vision consumers. We design and carry self-voicing educational software, Braille supplies, talking gadgets, adapted household items, tactile card and board games, audible toys and gift ideas. Passionate about innovation, we've also created dozens of products from scratch when a suitable solution did not exist. Shop online at http://www.braillebookstore.com/ and enjoy fast, free shipping.
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: http://www.braillebookstore.com/ 🌐
Phone (Toll Free): (800) 987-1231 📱️
Fax (Toll Free): (800) 985-1231 ░
Email: Sales@BrailleBookstore.com 📧️
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time.
About: Welcome to Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore. We have been supplying products to blind people and their families since 1999. We offer thousands of Braille books, toys, games, kitchen aids, and talking products. We have unbeatable prices, fast, free shipping, and great customer service! We have tons of Braille books and cool products to choose from; so grab a cup of coffee, relax, and we'll give you a quick tour:
Products:
➜ Timekeeping
➜ Housewares
➜ On The Go
➜ Low Vision Products
➜ Toys and Games
➜ Gift Shop
➜ Braille Workshop
➜ Braille Bookstore
➜ Greeting Cards
➜ Copy Center
➜ Computer Lab
➜ Popular Products
➜ New Products
If you need some fresh ideas or have questions, you can also check out our Shopping Guides.
Sponsor: Fable
➜ Free and Accessible Training for the Tech Sector
Fable Pathways helps you gain the skills that you need to work in the tech sector with a free, accessible, and on-demand program. Learn from industry leaders with disabilities to take your career to the next level, like Kelly Ford, Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, who introduces GitHub and VS Code using a screen reader. Spend less time and energy trying to access courses with your assistive technology and focus on the content that matters to you, with Fable Pathways' accessible platform. Sign up today!
https://www.fablepathways.com/
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: https://fablepathways.com/ 🌐
Email: community@makeitfable.com 📧️
Phone: (888) 212-3532 📱️ Extension 810
About: Just like curb cuts help everyone get on and off sidewalks, designing digital products with accessibility in mind helps make the internet more accessible for everyone. Fable is an accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities. Fable connects people with disabilities to accessibility managers, user researchers, designers, and developers to build incredible and accessible user experiences.
Opportunities:
➜ Fable Pathways: Fable Pathways is a free skill development program for people with disabilities interested in working in the tech sector. Sign up to take your career to the next level. Courses include "Getting started in web development" taught by Kelly Ford, a screen reader user, and Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, and "Becoming a manager" taught by Fable's Head of Accessibility Innovation, Kate Kalcevich. Instructors are subject matter experts in their fields and have lived experience with disability. Pathways courses are free, self-paced and assistive-technology-friendly. Sign up now at https://fablepathways.com/.
➜ Fable's Community of Accessibility Testers: Work from home to contribute to real changes in digital accessibility and make the internet a more accessible place for everyone. Ever leave a website because it was too hard to navigate? Because it was missing button labels? Because it didn't respond to voice commands? Us too. Our community of testers who use assistive technologies work from home and contribute to real changes in digital accessibility with recognizable brands. Earn money to share your feedback on websites and apps of your favorite brands and work with companies that care. No experience required and no resume required. Fable is looking for assistive technology users in the USA and Canada to work the hours that they want, from the comfort of their own homes. Learn more at https://fablepathways.com/community/.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ Dolphin Friends Program
If you work for a non-profit, charity or society that provides services to people with visual impairments, we invite you to take part in our Dolphin Friends Program. Dolphin will outfit your center with assistive technology solutions that can benefit your clients who need to remain independent, are trying to sharpen their technology skills for employment and more. Learn more about becoming a Dolphin Friend.
https://info.yourdolphin.com/join-dolphin-friends
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Your Name Here
0 of 18 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are currently 0 of 18 packages available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, September 8, 2022 - Volume 875
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.
Subscribers: 7,445 Opt-In Subscribers were sent this issue via email. 132 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: The Carroll Store
The Carroll Store provides products and solutions for persons with vision loss, ranging from simple tools for daily living, to cutting-edge solutions like the latest in electronic assistive technologies. We sell a large variety of low vision magnifiers, canes, daily living aids, sunglasses, braille products, games, and video magnification devices. Leasing options available for video magnification devices. No matter your level of vision, reclaim your independence with low vision and non-visual products, adaptive devices, and technology from The Carroll Store. Call us at: (617) 969-6200 📱️, Extension 240 or visit our e-commerce site at:
https://carroll.org/store/
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Tidbit for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Reader Review: The Egg Pod (8.9% of all clicks.)
Courtesy of Donna Jodhan, Top Tech Tidbits Reader:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/114.html
B.) How to Use the Emergency SOS Feature on Your Smartphone (7.0% of all clicks.)
Let's hope you never need it — but it's important to know how it works on your phone:
https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-use-emergency-sos-smartphone/
C.) Hidden iPhone Tricks That Will Make Your Life Easier (6.1% of all clicks.)
While this article is not accessibility-specific, these tips, swipes, and settings are guaranteed to make using your phone both faster and simpler:
https://www.wired.com/story/hidden-iphone-tips-tricks/
D.) Human Sight Could Be Restored for Blind People, Thanks to These 4 New Technologies (5.9% of all clicks.)
From a photovoltaic retinal prosthesis to visual stimulation through ultrasound waves, these futuristic techniques offer hope for blindness:
https://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/a40835515/future-technologies-to-restore-sight/
E.) How Microsoft Soundscape Enables Anyone To Hear The World Around Them | YouTube | Microsoft (5.6% of all clicks.)
The Microsoft Soundscape app enables anyone to hear the physical world around them. It's a powerful tool that reimagines how technology can enhance independence and mobility, and was built with the help of Guide Dogs UK and San Francisco Lighthouse for the blind, organizations that empower the blind and people with low vision with technology, training and more. Throughout National Disability Employment Awareness Month, Microsoft shared examples of how advances in technology can make a difference in the lives of the more than 1 billion people with disabilities around the world, and in this video, Amos Miller shows CEO Satya Nadella how he uses the app to navigate the Microsoft campus in Redmond:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VmbQGCZmgsU
2) No Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Packages Currently Available
If you would like to secure a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Package in the future we encourage you to add your company or organization name to our waiting list today by sending an email to our Publisher. There are currently two future sponsors on our waiting list:
publisher@toptechtidbits.com
3) Premium Subscriber Updates
Premium Subscribers will receive their next issue of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits for July, August and September 2022 on Monday, October 3rd 2022. Just a reminder that Premium Subscribers are entitled to all back issues, anytime they sign up. If you would like to receive a perfectly formatted and searchable Word Document with each of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits of the last 3 months listed neatly within it, please consider signing up here today for just $1 a month:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/premium-subscribers.html
4) Top Tech Tidbits Click-To-Vote Quick Poll #875 | Sponsored By Top Tech Tidbits
Question: Opinion Poll. This is not a test. As a screen reader user, when I encounter an image on a web page that has no informational value, such as a spacer or decorative image, I, personally, would PREFER that the web page do the following:
A.) Include no ALT attribute within the image tag at all.
Click-To-Vote Link: https://bit.ly/ttt-poll875-a
B.) Include the ALT attribute within the image tag but leave it blank. Example: alt=""
Click-To-Vote Link: https://bit.ly/ttt-poll875-b
C.) Include the ALT attribute within the image tag and identify it as a non-informational image. Example: alt="Decoration."
Click-To-Vote Link: https://bit.ly/ttt-poll875-c
Poll Link: https://bit.ly/ttt-poll875
5) Top Tech Tidbits Weekly Scramble
The Top Tech Tidbits Weekly Scramble presents a single word or phrase related to adaptive or assistive technology whose letters have been scrambled. Can you put the letters back in the proper order to determine this week's word? Check your work next week where we'll provide the answer along with a new challenge.
NEW SCRAMBLE: IPLOAECNMC =
6) AccessWorld July 2022
July updates include: Editor's Page: Back To School | Book Review Double Feature: Designing Documents For Appearance And The Beauty Of Dusk | A "More" Accessible Covid Test From The US Government | Vision Tech: Voxlens — A Single Line Of Code That Can Enable Developers To Make Charts And Graphs More Accessible | Scanning And Reading Documents With Onestep Reader And Voice Dream Scanner | Bookshare Comes To The Amazon Echo | A Review Of Senior Sidekick | A Review Of Voice Dream Reader For The Mac:
https://www.afb.org/aw/23/7
7) AppleVis Unlimited: What's New and Noteworthy for August 2022
https://www.applevis.com/newsletter/applevis-unlimited-whats-new-noteworthy-august-2022
8) Everything Apple Announced At Far Out: iPhone 14, Apple Watch Ultra, and More
Wednesday's iPhone launch event saw the release of four new iPhone models, plus an Apple Watch built to take a beating:
https://www.wired.com/live/apple-event-liveblog-september-2022/
9) Apple Event: Far Out
Missed Wednesday's event? Watch or listen to it on YouTube here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ux6zXguiqxM
10) Apple's Killing the Password. Here's Everything You Need to Know
With iOS 16 and macOS Ventura, Apple is introducing passkeys — a more convenient and secure alternative to passwords:
https://www.wired.com/story/apple-passkeys-password-iphone-mac-ios16-ventura/
11) Outlook Quick Steps Can Save Time And Are An Accessibility Win For Me | The Idea Place | Kelly Ford
Over the years I've assisted multiple people with Outlook and one feature that I commonly use stands above the rest as far as being a time saver that most people seem to have not discovered. Quick Steps allow you to take multiple actions on an email message with just a couple mouse clicks or a single key press:
https://theideaplace.net/outlook-quick-steps-can-save-time-and-are-an-accessibility-win-for-me/
12) APH ConnectCenter Job Seekers Toolkit Now Available Online Through NSITE U (LMS)
Students and Job Seekers. Are you ready to hone your career exploration and job-seeking skills? You'll be thrilled to know ... drumroll, please! ... The APH ConnectCenter and NSITE have partnered to update the long-loved Job Seeker's Toolkit, an accessible, self-paced, free online training course featuring five modules: Self-Awareness; Career Exploration: Methods & Resources; Finding Employment; The Interview; and Maintaining Employment — Advancing Your Career! Educators and Rehabilitation practitioners, APH ConnectCenter is pleased to be providing this no cost tool for career curious students and adults. Contact us for classroom presentations throughout October and November 2022. Visit our online interactive Job Seekers Toolkit by visiting:
https://communities.nonprofitleadershipalliance.org/nsitecommunity/home
13) GuideLights and Gadgets Announces The Availability of the 60 Inch Locking Titanium Telescopic Cane | Barry Scheur
I am very excited to announce that for the first time, a 60 inch version of the locking titanium telescopic cane is now available for purchase from GuideLights and Gadgets. We have underwritten the cost of manufacturing this length and it will only be available through GuideLights:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/116.html
14) Windows 11 Version 22H2 Review: Refined, But Still Not Perfect
It's been almost a year since Windows 11 launched to the world, and Microsoft has been hard at work on "polishing" the vision it has for this era of Windows. Last year was the big bang new release with a brand-new design, sounds, animations, and features. This year is all about refining those experiences to ensure this release is the best version of Windows yet:
https://www.windowscentral.com/software-apps/windows-11/windows-11-version-22h2-review
15) From The Web Accessibility Initiative: Updated: Making Events Accessible — Checklist For Meetings, Conferences, Training, And Presentations That Are Remote / Virtual, In-Person, Or Hybrid
Making Events Accessible: Checklist for meetings, conferences, training, and presentations that are remote/virtual, in-person, or hybrid is updated. It helps presenters, participants, and organizers make events inclusive, particularly to people with disabilities. This benefits everyone, particularly international participants:
https://www.w3.org/WAI/news/2022-08-31/making-events-accessible/
16) Sign Up To Receive Braille Refresher Questions from APH
The American Printing House for the Blind have launched Braille Refresher Questions, a weekly email inviting you to answer a multiple choice question on a particular aspect of the braille code. They are topical and designed to keep your knowledge of braille sharp. These no-stakes Braille Refreshers are for fun, and are in no way a test. To subscribe to these emails at any time, please send your name and braille-related title to BrailleImprovement@aph.org 📧️.
17) American Council of the Blind To Host A Community Event With Representatives From The Space Telescope Science Institute
Have you experienced the beauty and awe of the incredible photos taken by NASA's James Webb Space Telescope? The scientists, writers, and educators from the Space Telescope Science Institute want to make space accessible for everyone, and have created vividly detailed alt text for every photo that has been released. These image descriptions can be found in the Webb's First Images Gallery under "Download Options." In recognition of this valuable resource, the American Council of the Blind will be hosting a community event with representatives from the Space Telescope Science Institute to discuss how their team have collaborated with one another to make the photos accessible to people who are blind or low vision. We would love to hear from you with any questions that you have for their team. If your question is selected, we will meet with you to pre-record your question, which will then be aired during the live event. If you would like to submit a question, please email kgasque@acb.org 📧️ by 11:59 PM on Friday, September 16th 2022. This event will be a great opportunity to learn how NASA and the Space Telescope Science Institute are bridging the gap in access and inclusion for people with disabilities. More details about the event will be coming soon, so please stay tuned:
https://webbtelescope.org/news/first-images/gallery
18) Guest Review of Remote Incident Manager (RIM) Version 3.0
Here is a review from Christopher Wright, a new user of just-launched RIM version 3.0:
https://pneumasolutions.com/guest-review-of-rim-v3/
19) LibreOffice Calc Guide 7.4 Released
The guide is for beginner to advanced users of Calc, the spreadsheet component of LibreOffice. The book introduces the features and functions of LibreOffice Calc. It is not a tutorial on using spreadsheets. Some chapters assume familiarity with basic spreadsheet usage when describing how to use Calc:
https://blog.documentfoundation.org/blog/2022/08/31/libreoffice-calc-guide-7-4-is-released/
20) Top 5 Tips For Choosing Assistive Technology
The range of assistive and accessible technology has increased dramatically in the last 20 years. It's fantastic to have so many options and clever solutions that make life more accessible for people who are blind or vision impaired, and for people with reading or learning difficulties. But all that choice can be a bit confusing, so we thought we'd bring you some tips to help with decision making:
https://www.sightandsound.co.uk/top-5-tips-for-choosing-assistive-technology/
21) Google Meet Launches New Accessibility Features
Google Meet users will soon find that their space button will now double as a mute toggle in Google Meet's latest update. Google announced through their own blog that Google Meet would receive a new suite of updates now that the popular video conferencing service has now hit web devices:
https://coolblindtech.com/google-meet-launches-new-accessibility-features/
22) 6 Things Slowing Down Your Wi-Fi (And What to Do About Them)
The degree to which we rely on the internet for everything from work to entertainment means sluggish Wi-Fi speeds are excruciating. Here are some common causes of Wi-Fi issues and what to do about them:
https://www.howtogeek.com/820065/things-slowing-down-your-wi-fi-and-what-to-do-about-them/
23) Comparing JAWS, NVDA, and VoiceOver
A 2021 research by WebAim found that from 1568 responders, more than 53.7 percent of people surveyed used JAWS on Windows, more than 30.7 percent of people used NVDA on Windows and a little over 6.5 percent of people used VoiceOver on macOS:
https://css-tricks.com/comparing-jaws-nvda-and-voiceover/
24) Aira Explorer App Now Available in the Blind Shell Classic 2 App Catalog
For more information about what to expect from this early release version, visit:
https://aira.io/blindshell
25) A Windows 11 Automation Tool Can Easily Be Hijacked
Hackers can use Microsoft's Power Automate to push out ransomware and key loggers — if they get machine access first:
https://www.wired.com/story/windows-11-power-automate-attack/
26) Hartgen Consultancy Product Compatibility With the Upcoming JAWS 2023 Public Beta | Brian Hartgen
I'm beginning to feel like the queen. Each year at Christmas, she delivers an annual message. But it is at this time of year where I have to give my very own annual message: my usual reminder about the upcoming version of JAWS and how our products fit into the upcoming public beta:
https://www.hartgen.org/node/587
27) Assistive Touch On My Apple Watch Makes Me Feel Like I'm Living In The Future
Along with the geeky joy, there's a deeper lesson about accessibility:
https://uxdesign.cc/assistivetouch-on-my-apple-watch-makes-me-feel-like-im-living-in-the-future-b30d85e2ab87
➜ Press Releases and Other News
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Press Release or Other News item for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Apple Settles Lawsuit With Developer Over App Store Scam Apps
Apple has reached a settlement with Kosta Eleftheriou, a developer who sued the company over scams in the App Store and copycat keyboards:
https://appleinsider.com/articles/22/09/01/apple-settles-lawsuit-with-developer-over-app-store-scam-apps?utm_medium=rss
2) Brian Hartgen To Be Guest Banquet Speaker at Pennsylvania Council of the Blind Annual Conference | Brian Hartgen
The Pennsylvania Council of the Blind Conference is the most important meeting of the organization. It is during this weekend that the members decide the direction of the organization by voting on resolutions and board members and directors. It is a time for both members and those interested in the mission of the Pennsylvania Council of the Blind to learn about the latest issues concerning persons with vision loss. The conference features presentations on topics like adjustment to blindness, access technology and more. Both professional and social networking opportunities are offered throughout the weekend. I am both thrilled and delighted this year to be the guest banquet speaker at the event. I am also more honored than I can say that the organization are presenting me with an award in recognition of the contribution given to the productivity of individuals with vision loss:
https://www.hartgen.org/node/588
3) August 2022 Updates To ADA, WCAG And Digital Accessibility
A collection of current articles on digital accessibility best practices, news, thought leadership, and insights:
https://blog.usablenet.com/aug-2022-update-on-ada-wcag-and-digital-accessibility
4) The Salvation Army Aids Visually Impaired Community During Water Crisis
Mississippi Industries for the Blind is the leading employer of Mississippians who are blind. They strive to provide training and employment for individuals who are blind or visually impaired, to facilitate independence and self-reliance in all aspects of their lives. Lakenya Moore, Chief Financial Officer spoke on the struggles their employees have faced during the water crisis. "We have been trying for a month to get access to water. We spoke with The Salvation Army this morning, and here they are. They stepped up when no one else has:"
https://disaster.salvationarmyusa.org/news/2022/09/01/the-salvation-army-aids-visually-impaired-community-during-water-crisis-
5) The Signs Of Hearing Loss You Shouldn't Ignore
This article describes some of the lesser-known symptoms of early hearing loss:
https://www.huffpost.com/entry/signs-hearing-loss-shouldnt-ignore_l_63050f96e4b00c150d655c91
6) Five Ways The Metaverse Could Be Revolutionary For People With Disabilities
This article describes how virtual reality is envisioned to be a benefit for persons with disabilities:
https://www.brunel.ac.uk/news-and-events/news/articles/Five-ways-the-metaverse-could-be-revolutionary-for-people-with-disabilities
7) How Public Broadcasters Manage Accessibility and Streaming Tech Upgrades
The ways that public broadcasters manage accessibility and tech upgrades on their streaming platforms are heavily influenced by government regulations and funding. Ravi Singh, Director of Streaming Platforms, Knowledge Network, talks with Nadine Krefetz, Consultant, Reality Software, and Contributing Editor at Streaming Media about the unique challenges that public broadcasting streaming platforms face:
https://www.streamingmedia.com/Articles/Editorial/Short-Cuts/How-Public-Broadcasters-Manage-Accessibility-and-Streaming-Tech-Upgrades-154707.aspx
8) Study: Blind People Watch TV About as Much as Sighted People
Ninety-six percent of visually impaired adults watch TV on a regular basis, according to Comcast and the American Foundation for the Blind:
https://www.thewrap.com/study-blind-people-watch-tv-about-as-much-as-sighted-people/
9) Legally-Blind Alabama Woman Helped Make McDonald's Orders Easier For Visually Impaired
Krista Hamilton, who is legally blind, helped McDonald's improve its self-service kiosks to make them more accessible for the visually impaired:
https://www.al.com/news/2022/09/legally-blind-alabama-woman-helped-make-mcdonalds-orders-easier-for-visually-impaired.html
10) Visually-Impaired Boy Lands Job at Microsoft by Learning Coding from YouTube
Suffering from congenital glaucoma, Yash lost his sight at age of 8 but not his dreams and grit to achieve big. After completing his engineering degree, he taught himself coding from YouTube and will now be joining Microsoft:
https://www.news18.com/news/education-career/visually-impaired-boy-lands-job-at-microsoft-by-learning-coding-from-youtube-5859175.html
11) Hearing Dogs Give Deaf People a New Lease of Life!
Hearing Dogs for Deaf People is a charity in Buckinghamshire England, that trains dogs to help deaf people live happy and fulfilling lives:
https://medium.com/petness/hearing-dogs-give-deaf-people-a-new-lease-of-life-a521edc5d6c3
12) Apple AI Conference Keynote Concentrates On Accessibility
Apple has given a rare speech at a global AI gathering, with vice president Ge Yue choosing to concentrate on Machine Learning in accessibility features:
https://appleinsider.com/articles/22/09/07/apple-ai-conference-keynote-concentrates-on-accessibility
13) New Funding Will Help Expand STEM Opportunities For The Visually Impaired
New funding, a university's ingenuity, and a leading advocate's guidance could now result in sought-after jobs in coding for the blind and visually impaired. Even with a lot of developments in recent years, much of the internet isn't accessible for people with visual impairments. In 2020, a technology called CodeJumper was launched by Microsoft. It has knobs to turn and makes sounds as you connect parts of the chain:
https://news4sanantonio.com/newsletter-daily/new-funding-will-help-expand-stem-opportunities-for-the-visually-impaired
14) When Do the Disabled Get the Respect and Services They Deserve?
Those with physical disabilities aren't invisible, and yet we fail to adequately plan for their needs and ability to contribute to our society:
https://medium.com/beingwell/when-do-the-disabled-get-the-respect-and-services-they-deserve-f49f3eb58eed
15) AudioSpot App At Disneyland Paris Increases Accessibility For The Visually Impaired
Blind and visually impaired guests at Disneyland Paris now have the ability to access audio description content via the AudioSpot mobile app to enhance their park-going experience:
https://attractionsmagazine.com/audiospot-app-at-disneyland-paris-increases-accessibility-for-the-visually-impaired/
16) Now, Visually Impaired Can 'Listen' To James Webb Telescope Images Of Universe
Although the main objective behind this project is to support visually impaired and low-vision listeners, its immersive experience captivates anyone who listens:
https://www.hindustantimes.com/technology/now-visually-impaired-can-listen-to-james-webb-telescope-images-of-universe-101662090262572.html
17) Mastercard and Ajman Bank Launch Payment Card For the Visually Impaired
Mastercard and Ajman Bank have unveiled an accessible payment card that lets blind and partially sighted people facilitate payments and distinguish between their cards:
https://thefintechtimes.com/mastercard-and-ajman-bank-launch-payment-card-for-the-visually-impaired/
➜ Surveys
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related survey for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-survey or locate "Survey Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Surveys: From APH
Closes: Ongoing Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
2) Survey: Product Testing Opportunity: Tactile Point Symbol Slate
Closes: September 20th 2022 American Printing House for the Blind (APH) is currently seeking field evaluators for the Tactile Point Symbol Slate. Evaluators will be asked to use the prototype to design, create, and embellish tactile displays of their own choosing using a variety of media. Note: The number of available field-test prototypes is limited. If you are interested in possibly serving as a field evaluator, please complete the Tactile Point Symbol Slate field test opportunity survey by September 20th 2022 at:
https://bit.ly/3pNiSVs
3) Survey: Data Visualization Research at Boston College
Closes: September 22nd 2022 Hello, there! We are data visualization researchers at Boston College. We are currently studying how charts and graphs can be made more accessible for blind and low-vision users. For this, we are looking for people that meet the following requirements: blind or low-vision, screen reader user, in the USA, and at least 18 years or older. If this is you, please take part in our study! Your participation will help develop and improve different strategies to guide the exploration of charts. The study will take approximately 90 minutes. The study will be conducted online via a remote zoom call. We will compensate you with up to $50 in Amazon gift cards for your participation. To take part, send an email with the subject "Study Sign Up" to joynersh@bc.edu 📧️. If you have any questions, you can use the same address.
4) Survey: Robotics Institute at OSU is Testing A New Navigation Aid, The Optiband
Closes: October 1st 2022 The Robotics Institute at OSU is testing a new handheld navigation aid, the Optiband, which uses vibrations to help a user understand their environment better. The Optiband was designed with a blind stakeholder to be more than an obstacle avoidance device, and helps users gain spatial and depth perception. We are interested in talking to BVI persons about our device, and whether or not they are willing to test out a model of the device. We are running a study and are actively recruiting participants, to whom we will provide a device as well as cash compensation for their time. If you are interested or have any questions/concerns, please send an email to: bontulaa@oregonstate.edu 📧️ or send a text to (541)-360-9491 📱️.
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Podcast Episode for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-podcast-episode or locate "Podcast Episode Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) That Real Blind Tech Show Episode 97: The Return of the Ed
August 27th 2022 | On our latest episode we discuss Ed Plumacher's European vacation which included the first international All Blind Italian Baseball Tournament which took place in the Netherlands. We discuss the arrival of Aira to the Envision glasses, the leak of the new high end Sonos speakers which are rumored to have directional audio, and a disastrous campaign targeting Tesla's automated driving features, and what this could mean for blind people eventually getting behind the wheel:
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-97-the-return-of-the-ed
2) Keeping Your Job After Vision Loss | Hadley Presents: A Conversation With The Experts
September 2nd 2022 | A change in your vision may make some parts of your job more challenging. But with a bit of help and some new skills, you may be able to stay in your job. Hadley Chief Program Officer Ed Haines and Learning Expert Steve Kelley join the podcast to talk about our new Working with Vision Loss workshops and to share tips for where to find support and how to ask for what you need:
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/keeping-your-job-after-vision-loss
3) Blind Abilities Episode 866: iPhone101: Blocking Callers and Senders of Unwanted Calls, Messages and Emails — A Deep Dive!
September 2nd 2022 | Blind Abilities adds to the iPhone101 Series with this in depth, comprehensive review of blocking callers and senders of unwanted text messages and emails. Pete Lane takes us through a detailed journey covering the various processes for eliminating and reducing these unwelcome contacts in multiple Apps across iOS. From blocking unknown phone numbers in our Messages and Phone Apps, to blocking and unsubscribing from sales, spam and scam emails, collectively referred to as Robocalls, Pete demonstrates step by step techniques for getting these nagging senders out of our virtual hair. Check out all of the iPhone101 and QuickByte demonstrations at BlindAbilities.com and subscribe to the Blind Abilities podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. That's 2 words, Blind Abilities. Listen here:
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7620
4) Mosen at Large Episode 195: One Guy's Thoughts On iOS Podcast Apps, Looking Ahead To Apple's Far Out Event, And Could The Dot Pad Be The Holy Braille?
5) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 91: IFA and More
September 3rd 2022 | In this episode, we focus on IFA2022, with special attention to HMD (Nokia), Huawei, Honour, and Samsung. LastPass has a data breach, so folks are advised to change their passwords. Consequently, Samsung customers in the U.S. and Canada should also change their passwords as Samsung also observed some data breach on its U.S. and Canadian servers. In our Spotlight we went all in on IFA2022, especially paying attention to Nokia's "Circular" subscription-based services with the introduction of its newest phones, the X30 and the G60. We talk about some new updates in the world of CSR along with a tip of the week:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqpjvN8QjbV1k8FWo3qL2-ip
6) Eyes on Success Episode 2236: NBP Center for Braille Innovation
September 7th 2022 | The National Braille Press (NBP) is well known for its mission of promoting braille literacy and producing a variety of braille books for all ages and interests. Perhaps less well known is their program to advance technologies to produce braille. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Brian MacDonald, President and CEO of NBP, about these efforts:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202236.htm
7) Mosen at Large Episode 196: Apple's Far Out Event From A Blindness Perspective
September 7th 2022https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/332dc7eb/apple-s-far-out-event-from-a-blindness-perspective
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Webinar, Training Course or Event for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-event or locate "Webinar / Training Course Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Learn All About the New and Improved Amigo by Enhanced Vision | Vispero Group
September 8th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, XXX GMT | Vispero Presenters: Mike Wood and Michelle Williams. Summary: In this webinar, you'll learn that our new, redesigned classic not only has an increased screen size and new unique contrast features, but the new Amigo has a total of 13 upgrades and improved features. This is another presentation you won't want to miss! Objectives: Learn about the benefits of next-level contrast features. Discover the advantages of having two dedicated cameras in one device. Learn about and see the all-new Live Image Panning feature and why you need it. Register for this webinar on Zoom:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_IP5cuf1PSdK1NEEWZ1p5tw
2) Pixel Phone | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
September 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Has Android bridged the gap with Apple with this remarkable new device? All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
3) Requirements Beyond WCAG: An Accessibility Decision Tree | TPGi
September 13th 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Presenter: Mitchell Evan, Senior Accessibility Engineer. WCAG is essential, but it's not the only accessibility standard. User needs go beyond WCAG for particular kinds of digital products, and regulations and standards such as Section 508 and EN 301 549 help address these needs. In this webinar, we'll show how these other standards apply to documents, native apps, hardware devices, and particular product functions of websites and ICT (information and communication technologies):
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-september-13-at-11am-et-requirements-beyond-wcag-an-accessibility-decision-tree/
4) Blind Shell USA | Unmute Presents
September 13th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Unmute presents a live event on September 13th, 2022, at 10:00 AM PT - 1:00 PM ET with Blind Shell USA. It will be a fun and entertaining session where you can ask your questions about the new accessible Blind Shell Classic 2, get the latest on apps, and learn from other users. You can get the zoom info when you send an email to community@acb.org 📧️ and share that you're looking to join the Unmute Presents call on the Blind Shell Classic 2 on September 13th. If you already receive the ACB Community daily emails, then you will receive the information on the email that's sent out on the day of the event. Bring your friends, colleagues, and family! As always, audience participation is encouraged and rewarded! It will be fun, don't miss it:
5) Chameleon 20 Basics Using Text-To-Speech | APH Access Academy
September 13th 2022 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Duration: 90 minutes. Description: Say WHAAAAAAT!? The Chameleon 20 refreshable braille display is now available in both English and Spanish with the 2.0 software update. Attend this webinar to learn more about this update, while also covering the basics from using the Editor and Library to connecting with an external device via the Terminal app. No prior knowledge is necessary, yet it is helpful to update the Chameleon to 2.0 before attending. Instructor: William Freeman, Tactile Technology Product Manager at APH. Primary Core or ECC Area: Assistive Technology. Target Audience: TVIs. Pre-requisite knowledge: None. Lesson Plan Goal: Explore Text-to-Speech on the Chameleon20. Learning Objectives: Setup your Chameleon 20 device to use the latest version via one of three methods for updating. Experiment with text-to-speech and how it interacts with the different apps. Compare three differences between the Editor and Library apps. Materials Needed: None. Collect ACVREP Credit. Credit is only available for the live presentation. To collect ACRVEP credit, please listen for the opening and closing codes, then submit these to the APH Hive's NEW webinar certificate portal within 30 days of the scheduled event. Following submission, a certificate is immediately available and stored:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_RSQuDDB_QXqhElByggx9rg
6) Alternative Formats & Accessible/Inclusive Language | Access Ingenuity
September 14th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Rachel Reeves from Access Ingenuity and learn more about the alternative format services Access Ingenuity can offer. Learning Outcomes: Learn about our Braille services. Discover how Audio CDs can be a solution. Discuss the standards for Large Print documents. Learn some language to use when creating websites and documents that promote inclusivity. | Meeting ID: 835 5959 8799 | Passcode: 876909 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83559598799#,,,,*876909# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83559598799?pwd=SUMwMnFsNmhVNmNQdnNpdkNGQVZHQT09#success
7) Prep and Proof: Use Styles in Microsoft Word with JAWS | Vispero Group
September 15th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Want to learn how to format documents more efficiently with JAWS? Join us on Thursday, September 15th 2022 at Noon Eastern time for a live webinar, "Prep and Proof: Use Styles in Microsoft Word with JAWS."
Objectives: We'll provide an overview of what styles are and how to use them, plus show you how to: Apply existing Word styles to a document. Create new styles to customize formatting. Create a Table of Contents using styles. Freedom Scientific Presenters: Elizabeth Whitaker, Cathy Johnson, and Rachel Buchanan. ACVREP Credits: ACVREP credits will be available for those who attend the live webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Ztnha7AxRI2CCzyg4JUUwQ
8) 13th Annual Inclusion in Science, Learning A New Direction, Conference on Disability (ISLAND)
September 16th 2022 | The 13th annual Inclusion in Science, Learning A New Direction, Conference on Disability (ISLAND) will be held virtually on Friday, September 16 and Saturday, September 17, 2022. All times on the schedule are in the eastern time zone. This year's conference will be hosted by Princeton University. We want to thank everyone in advance for your interest in attending the 2022 ISLAND conference. Also, on-line registration is now open for this year's conference. There is a $25 registration fee for registration if it is completed by September 1, 2021. Please be sure to check back as the conference nears for final program and other details. For questions regarding this year's ISLAND conference, please contact the conference organizers at island@princeton.edu 📧️. For more information regarding registration and other details, go to:
https://islandconference.org/
9) 13th Annual Inclusion in Science, Learning A New Direction, Conference on Disability (ISLAND)
September 17th 2022 | The 13th annual Inclusion in Science, Learning A New Direction, Conference on Disability (ISLAND) will be held virtually on Friday, September 16 and Saturday, September 17, 2022. All times on the schedule are in the eastern time zone. This year's conference will be hosted by Princeton University. We want to thank everyone in advance for your interest in attending the 2022 ISLAND conference. Also, on-line registration is now open for this year's conference. There is a $25 registration fee for registration if it is completed by September 1, 2021. Please be sure to check back as the conference nears for final program and other details. For questions regarding this year's ISLAND conference, please contact the conference organizers at island@princeton.edu 📧️. For more information regarding registration and other details, go to:
https://islandconference.org/
10) Outlook Emails with JAWS using Speech & Braille (ACVREP CE Approved) | Access Ingenuity
September 21st 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Rachel Reeves, Marisa Church, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity with Joe McDaniel from Vispero to explore some tips on using Microsoft Outlook with JAWS. This presentation benefits anyone who wants to know about using Outlook with JAWS while on a PC, with a QWERTY keyboard, Focus Braille Display, and the ElBraille. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: Efficient methods to use JAWS to work with more and lesser-known Outlook features like Ribbons, Quick Find, Quick Access Toolbar, and File tabs. Basic techniques to work with the Message list, navigate emails, and more. Additional tools such as Advanced Find, edit mail folders, and Message options. | Meeting ID: 846 2544 0710 | Passcode: 614312 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,84625440710#,,,,*614312# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84625440710?pwd=MVdzL3VnL1hWSVZ1SFZXUEMxSlprdz09#success
11) Digital Accessibility - Ask Me Anything (AMA) | TPGi
September 21st 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenters: Mark Miller, Director of Sales and Host of the Real People, Real Stories Podcast. Join TPGi for a live AMA event with Mark Miller. Mark has over 10 years of digital accessibility knowledge and has supported accessibility teams at all points in their journey. No matter where you are on your accessibility journey, there is always something new to learn. Get answers to your top accessibility questions:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-september-21-at-12pm-et-digital-accessibility-ask-me-anything-ama/
12) Blindness & Diabetes Webinar: Dexcom vs Freestyle Libre | Accessible Pharmacy Services For The Blind
September 23rd 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Blindness and Diabetes Webinar: Dexcom vs Freestyle Libre. Please join Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind and University of Pennsylvania's Diabetes Education Center as we compare Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) devices available to our blind, deafblind, and low vision patients living with diabetes. We will be discussing differences between Dexcom and Freestyle Libre as well as their accessibility features. This webinar will have captioning and a live ASL interpreter. If you are unable to attend, please register to receive the webinar audio and video via email:
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/blindness-diabetes-webinar-dexcom-vs-freestyle-libre/
13) TOPAZ Family of Magnifiers: Powerful Visual Aids (ACVREP CE Approved) | Access Ingenuity
September 28th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | The TOPAZ family of desktop video magnifiers combines ease of use with powerful features to help people retain their independent lifestyle - reading, writing, viewing photographs and engaging in hobbies. All TOPAZ models are available in a range of monitor sizes and provide a clear, crisp picture with a wide range of magnification and color-coded controls. The ergonomic design provides exceptional reading comfort for hours of use in the home, office, or school. During this webinar, hosted by Ian Ramos and Joe McDaniel from Vispero, we discuss the features of all the TOPAZ models and the benefits each can give in specific situations. We will dive deep into how these powerful tools to help those challenged by vision loss. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: Features of all TOPAZ models. How to determine which features fit your needs best. How adding speech capability can take you further. | Meeting ID: 836 4264 4156 | Passcode: 887513 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83642644156#,,,,*887513# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83642644156?pwd=dWF6cVBpMFRVVEMvRU9QeUVIYmdMdz09#success
14) iOS 16 Review And Editing Voice Memos | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
October 1st 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Every year we look for accessibility improvements in our i-devices. See what is new in this latest version of the Apple operating system. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
15) U.S. Access Board Webinar: Accessible Amusement Rides
October 6th 2022 | 1PM PT, 2PM MT, 3PM CT, 4PM ET, 8PM GMT | Up and down, around and around! Amusement rides are enjoyed by many people, including those with disabilities. The 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design and the Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility Standards address accessibility for permanent amusement rides. The next webinar in the U.S. Access Board's free monthly series will take place October 6 from 2:30 - 4:00 p.m. (ET) and review scoping and technical provisions for amusement rides. For newly designed and constructed rides, scoping provisions provide the option to choose the type of access that is suitable for a particular ride or experience. Three options for providing accessibility onto a ride device include a wheelchair space on the ride, a ride seat designed for transfer, or a transfer device. This session will review the technical provisions for each type of access required on rides. Additionally, U.S. Access Board staff Bill Botten and Bobby Stinnette will address requirements for accessible routes, que lines, parking and passenger loading areas, signage, sales, and service counters. Visit Great Lakes ADA Center's AccessibilityOnline webpage for more information or to register. All webinars include video remote interpreting (VRI) and real-time captioning. Questions can be submitted in advance of the session or can be posed during the live webinar. Webinar attendees can earn continuing education credits. The webinar series is hosted by the ADA National Network in cooperation with the Board. Archived copies of previous Board webinars are available on the site:
https://www.accessibilityonline.org/ao/session/?id=111019
16) WordPress Accessibility Day
November 2nd 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | WordPress Accessibility Day is a free, 24-hour online event scheduled to start at 15:00 UTC (11:00 US Eastern, 8:00 US Pacific) on Wednesday, November 2nd. The conference will be held virtually so you can present from anywhere worldwide. Here are some other important things to know about speaking at WordPress Accessibility Day: We will provide an accessible speaking experience — the presentation platform will be screen reader-friendly, and we will have captions and sign language interpretation available for speakers as needed. You don't have to have speaking experience! We would love to have first-time speakers present and can support you in presenting as needed. You don't have to be an "expert" or have any special certifications. Anyone with something to share related to accessibility on the web or in WordPress is invited to apply. You can share your journey learning about accessibility or your experience as a person with a disability even if you don't think you've reached the end of that journey yet. Your topic doesn't have to be explicitly WordPress related. While we want some talks specific to WordPress and want to encourage developer-level presentations, not all talks need to be specific to WordPress. General website accessibility talks with broad applications for websites of all types and people of all levels of technical abilities are welcome. If you have an idea for a talk to share your knowledge or experiences about the intersection of WordPress and accessibility, we'd love to hear it!
https://wpaccessibility.day/weekend-plans-apply-to-speak-at-wp-accessibility-day/
17) AT Gifts for the Holidays | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Our annual look at gadgets and gizmos that will make your holiday season a successful one. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
18) ACB's 2022 Audio Description Awards Gala
November 29 2022 | The American Council of the Blind (ACB) proudly announces the second annual Audio Description Awards Gala on November 29, 2022. The Gala will once again celebrate outstanding achievements in audio description in media and expand awareness of its benefits. In recent years there has been enormous success in expanding audio description for audiences who are blind, low vision, or have other sensory disabilities that create barriers to full inclusion in visual media. "The Audio Description Awards Gala will celebrate the best of the best within the art and science of inclusive audio-described media," said Eric Bridges, ACB's Executive Director. "Together we will work to expand awareness of the transformative value that audio description brings to the lives of people with disabilities:"
https://acb.org/save-the-date-2022-AD-Awards
19) Blind Health Expo | The Accessible Pharmacy
December 2nd 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | The Accessible Pharmacy Blind Health Expo will be the largest virtual expo of healthcare information, products, services, and medication for individuals who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision. Join thousands of other attendees and register now for free!
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/blind-health-expo/
20) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
December 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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
✍ List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. Fill out this short form to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-buy-sell-trade or learn more on the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) FOR SALE: One Index Basic D V5 Embosser
Listing Date: 8/25/2022 | Price: $4,500.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Show used only. Like new. Only used twice to show less than 50 pages total embossed. Index Basic D V5 Embosser. Includes Travel Lock. Will be shipped free matter unless arrangements for other shipping is made. $4,500 obo. | Contact: Ashley via email at: crazy4chemistry@att.net 📧️ or by phone / text at: (972) 369-6010 📱️. |
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: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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 from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Control the climate of your home independently! The VIP 3000 is a universal heating — cooling talking thermostat This accessible digital thermostat is specifically designed to offer audio playback of indoor temperature, temperature settings and programming instructions so blind and visually impaired users can independently & precisely manage their indoor comfort. Don't over pay. Read more at:
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 every day 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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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 Next Generation in Accessibility
Need to quickly access a distant computer with minimal fuss? Need to quickly convert image documents into readable text? Today's students and working professionals demand more of their technology. Employers expect more of their workforce. Pneuma Solutions is bridging the gap using the best in machine learning to connect you to your environment when you need it, how you need it. Give us a try, and experience accessibility on a whole new level:
https://pneumasolutions.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
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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Combine Learning And Gaming For A Fun Braille Adventure With Polly!
APH and Thinkerbell Labs are excited to introduce Polly, complete with customizable UEB lessons, songs, games, and stories! Join our waiting list to know when Polly is available:
https://www.aph.org/polly-wait-list/
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
➜ Announcing The Availability of the 60 Inch Locking Titanium Telescopic Cane
I am very excited to announce that for the first time, a 60 inch version of the locking titanium telescopic cane is now available for purchase from GuideLights and Gadgets. We have underwritten the cost of manufacturing this length and it will only be available through GuideLights. Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/116.html. Call Barry for this new product at (617) 969-7500 📱️, or by email at barry.scheur@gmail.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, affordable, 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
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: That Real Blind Tech Show
➜ That Real Blind Tech Show Episode 96: We Got More Resolutions, ACB Style!
It's a fully packed That Real Blind Tech show lair. Join us as we recap this year's ACB Resolutions. We chime in with all of our opinions about this year's resolutions, and as usual some hilarity ensues. You will not want to miss both AirPods issues that take place on this episode. We are adding do not listen to That Real Blind Tech show on the bus as we are not responsible for the stares you will receive when laughing or cackling like a lunatic!
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-96-we-got-more-resolutions-acb-style
Sponsor Since: August 11th 2022
Website: https://blindtechshow.com/ 🌐
Email: ThatRealBlindTechShow@gmail.com 📧️
Social: Facebook Page | Facebook Group | Twitter
Listen: Apple Podcasts | Audible | Google Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube
Hosts: Brian Fischler | Ed Plumacher | Allison Meloy | Jenine Stanley
Goals: We want to educate you on the latest tech for the blindness community. You'll learn what is worth keeping and what you need to return. Our goals are: To inform, inspire and educate our audience. Feature guests and products that bring you value. Continuously improve and deliver the best content.
About: A podcast discussing the good & bad of assistive technology for the low vision & totally blind. No longer focused on just Apple VoiceOver technology. That Real Blind Tech show covers all the fantastic talking tech and gadgets out there for the low vision and blindness community. Common topics include Apple's VoiceOver, JAWS, Microsoft Narrator, NVDA, Amazon Alexa and VoiceView, Google Assistant and Android. Basically, if a device can talk to you, we are going to be talking about it. That Real Blind Tech Show will not only educate you, but it will also make you laugh. Listeners are encouraged to not use treadmills or drink hot coffee while listening to our show, or accidents can and have occurred. Dishes have been broken while listening to That Real Blind Tech Show, and while we are responsible for the laughs, we are in no way responsible for the injuries or bills that pile up. Remember to keep it Real and also don't believe anything you hear on That Real Blind Tech Show.
Home | Episodes | Blog | Contact | Subscribe
Sponsor: Aira
Sponsor Since: August 4th 2022
Website: https://aira.io/ 🌐
Download the App: Apple App Store | Google Play Store
Plans and Pricing: https://aira.io/pricing/
Phone: NA: +1.800.835.1934 📱️ | AU: +1.800.765.096 📱️ | UK: +0.800.046.5668 📱️ | NZ: +1.800.425.451 📱️
Text Message: NA: +1.858.242.4457 📲 | AU: +61.488.839.767 📲 | UK: +44.149.320.2474 📲
Email: support@aira.io 📧️
Social: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
About: Aira's mission is to remove barriers and make the world more accessible with visual interpreting.
We provide a live, human-to-human professional assistance service, an accommodation or productivity tool, that enhances independence by delivering on-demand, skilled and reliable visual interpreting for just about any task. Using the powerful combination of a camera and the Aira app on someone's device of 'choice', a professionally-trained agent will assist by visually interpreting what is in the camera's view or on screen, from describing to reading, from explaining to navigating - just about anything, safely and securely. Aira supports a growing range of devices including smart and tactile button phones, desktop computers and soon, wearables.
Whether you are involved in the work of business, the work of school or the work of life, Aira enhances everyday efficiency, engagement, and independence. Used by employees and customers of hundreds of organizations including airports, banks, the largest software companies, financial firms, retailers and universities, we invite you to join the community, access the Aira app today and try it for free.
https://aira.io/download-and-try-it/
Step One: Subscribe and Download. Pick the plan that lets you explore on your terms and on your time, sign up in a few minutes, and download the Aira app to your smartphone. Plans shown are for the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Add or cancel at any time.
Step Two: Connect with an Aira Agent. On the first call, connect with one of our certified, specially-trained Agents and learn how everything works.
Step Three: Real-time Assistance. At the touch of a button, Aira delivers instant access to visual information, when and where you want it.
Sponsor: Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
➜ Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore: Touch Tomorrow in Today's Products
Serving blind people since 1999, we're a family-owned, forward-thinking company offering both tried-and-true and exciting new products for blind and low vision consumers. We design and carry self-voicing educational software, Braille supplies, talking gadgets, adapted household items, tactile card and board games, audible toys and gift ideas. Passionate about innovation, we've also created dozens of products from scratch when a suitable solution did not exist. Shop online at http://www.braillebookstore.com/ and enjoy fast, free shipping.
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: http://www.braillebookstore.com/ 🌐
Phone (Toll Free): (800) 987-1231 📱️
Fax (Toll Free): (800) 985-1231 ░
Email: Sales@BrailleBookstore.com 📧️
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time.
About: Welcome to Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore. We have been supplying products to blind people and their families since 1999. We offer thousands of Braille books, toys, games, kitchen aids, and talking products. We have unbeatable prices, fast, free shipping, and great customer service! We have tons of Braille books and cool products to choose from; so grab a cup of coffee, relax, and we'll give you a quick tour:
Products:
➜ Timekeeping
➜ Housewares
➜ On The Go
➜ Low Vision Products
➜ Toys and Games
➜ Gift Shop
➜ Braille Workshop
➜ Braille Bookstore
➜ Greeting Cards
➜ Copy Center
➜ Computer Lab
➜ Popular Products
➜ New Products
If you need some fresh ideas or have questions, you can also check out our Shopping Guides.
Sponsor: Fable
➜ Free and Accessible Training for the Tech Sector
Fable Pathways helps you gain the skills that you need to work in the tech sector with a free, accessible, and on-demand program. Learn from industry leaders with disabilities to take your career to the next level, like Kelly Ford, Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, who introduces GitHub and VS Code using a screen reader. Spend less time and energy trying to access courses with your assistive technology and focus on the content that matters to you, with Fable Pathways' accessible platform. Sign up today!
https://www.fablepathways.com/
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: https://fablepathways.com/ 🌐
Email: community@makeitfable.com 📧️
Phone: (888) 212-3532 📱️ Extension 810
About: Just like curb cuts help everyone get on and off sidewalks, designing digital products with accessibility in mind helps make the internet more accessible for everyone. Fable is an accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities. Fable connects people with disabilities to accessibility managers, user researchers, designers, and developers to build incredible and accessible user experiences.
Opportunities:
➜ Fable Pathways: Fable Pathways is a free skill development program for people with disabilities interested in working in the tech sector. Sign up to take your career to the next level. Courses include "Getting started in web development" taught by Kelly Ford, a screen reader user, and Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, and "Becoming a manager" taught by Fable's Head of Accessibility Innovation, Kate Kalcevich. Instructors are subject matter experts in their fields and have lived experience with disability. Pathways courses are free, self-paced and assistive-technology-friendly. Sign up now at https://fablepathways.com/.
➜ Fable's Community of Accessibility Testers: Work from home to contribute to real changes in digital accessibility and make the internet a more accessible place for everyone. Ever leave a website because it was too hard to navigate? Because it was missing button labels? Because it didn't respond to voice commands? Us too. Our community of testers who use assistive technologies work from home and contribute to real changes in digital accessibility with recognizable brands. Earn money to share your feedback on websites and apps of your favorite brands and work with companies that care. No experience required and no resume required. Fable is looking for assistive technology users in the USA and Canada to work the hours that they want, from the comfort of their own homes. Learn more at https://fablepathways.com/community/.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ SuperNova Supports Microsoft Teams
If you use Microsoft Teams, check out the new SuperNova update (all editions) for Teams support plus other cool improvements. Find out more about what's new and download a full, unrestricted 30-day trial of SuperNova today!
https://yourdolphin.com/SuperNova/Trial
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Sponsor: Clusiv
➜ Looking For Blind Job-Seekers Wanting To Advance Their Salaries, Careers And Digital Accessibility For The Blind
Are you interested in learning new tech skills and working remotely while earning a competitive salary? At Clusiv.io we have created the world's first digitally accessible e-Learning platform built by the blind, and built for the blind. Visit the link provided and request Clusiv through your Vocational Rehab counselor for lifetime access to our e-Learning platform with courses such as Business Applications, JAWS, and more:
https://clusiv.io/
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Your Name Here
0 of 18 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are currently 0 of 18 packages available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, September 1, 2022 - Volume 874
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.
Subscribers: 7,438 Opt-In Subscribers were sent this issue via email. 132 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Meet Polly — APH's Newest Talking Braille Device!
APH, in partnership with Thinkerbell Labs, is excited to bring to market a new, electronic Wi-Fi enabled device to Federal Quota and standard purchase customers within the United States. Polly will assist users in learning and reinforcing both contracted and uncontracted braille characters while also mastering beginning literacy skills. Polly's many components for input and output can provide practice and gamify the braille learning process for students.
Teachers will have the ability to create individualized vocabulary/spelling lists and customize the order of lessons on the device, tailoring to students' learning needs through the online portal, Helios, included with purchase. Customizing lessons enables Polly to reinforce any braille curriculum teachers may already be using with students. Progress data are displayed in accessible charts and graphs for ease of record keeping.
Please subscribe to our waiting list to receive ongoing information, such as the day Polly becomes available!
https://www.aph.org/polly-wait-list/
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Tidbit for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Hidden iPhone Tricks That Will Make Your Life Easier (15.7% of all clicks.)
While this article is not accessibility-specific, these tips, swipes, and settings are guaranteed to make using your phone both faster and simpler:
https://www.wired.com/story/hidden-iphone-tips-tricks/
B.) Shift + Enter Is a Secret Shortcut Everyone Should Know (8.7% of all clicks.)
The Enter key can mean several things based on context. It can produce a line feed and carriage return, or it can submit a form or text field. With Shift + Enter, you can often toggle between those two modes with ease. Here's why — and how to use it:
https://www.howtogeek.com/825393/shift-enter-is-a-secret-shortcut-everyone-should-know/
C.) HumanWare Introduces New Digital Orientation And Mobility Assistant, The StellarTrek (5.8% of all clicks.)
In addition to the link below look for two different webinars (listed in our "Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events" section) on September 1st discussing the launch:
https://store.humanware.com/hus/stellartrek.html
D.) The Best eBook Subscription Services for Every Kind of Reader (4.6% of all clicks.)
You can read countless eBooks, listen to audiobooks, or browse comics with one of these WIRED-tested digital reading subscriptions:
https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-ebook-subscription-services/
E.) Sorted. What Is Apple TV? Is Apple TV A Smart TV? What's The Difference Between A Smart TV And A Set Top Box? How Do I Tell The Difference? | Aaron Di Blasi, Publisher, Top Tech Tidbits (4.5% of all clicks.)
Here at Tidbits we monitor many different BVI listservs and the following questions were recently asked and answered in a somewhat fragmented fashion, so we thought that it might help to sort these questions out here, in complete detail, once and for all. And I believe the very best way to do that is to simply answer the questions that were asked in the most straightforward manner possible. One by one. So here goes:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/112.html
2) No Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Packages Currently Available
If you would like to secure a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Package in the future we encourage you to add your company or organization name to our waiting list today by sending an email to our Publisher. There are currently two future sponsors on our waiting list:
publisher@toptechtidbits.com
3) Premium Subscriber Updates
Premium Subscribers received their first issue of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits for April, May and June 2022 on July 4th 2022. Premium Subscribers will receive their next issue of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits for July, August and September 2022 on Monday, October 3rd 2022. We were so very happy to hear that so many of you found these documents useful. Just a reminder that Premium Subscribers are entitled to all back issues, anytime they sign up. We're currently working on an article for all readers, not just Premium Subscribers, that outlines the ways in which you can create a searchable archive from Top Tech Tidbits issues. I mean, sure, you could always just search the website, but we've learned that many readers prefer to keep their own offline archives for research purposes, and I believe we can recommend a few methods that might assist in this regard based on the way in which Tidbits is coded. More to come on this. But for now, if you'd prefer to have us do the work for you, and deliver you a perfectly formatted and searchable Word Document with each of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits of the last 3 months listed neatly within it, consider signing up here today for just $1 a month:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/premium-subscribers.html
4) Dolphin SuperNova Power Tip: Working With Side-by-Side Applications in a Multiple Monitor Setup With SuperNova
Courtesy of Dolphin Computer Access:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/115.html
5) Reader Review: The Egg Pod
Courtesy of Donna Jodhan, Top Tech Tidbits Reader:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/114.html
6) How Microsoft Soundscape Enables Anyone To Hear The World Around Them | YouTube | Microsoft
The Microsoft Soundscape app enables anyone to hear the physical world around them. It's a powerful tool that reimagines how technology can enhance independence and mobility, and was built with the help of Guide Dogs UK and San Francisco Lighthouse for the blind, organizations that empower the blind and people with low vision with technology, training and more. Throughout National Disability Employment Awareness Month, Microsoft shared examples of how advances in technology can make a difference in the lives of the more than 1 billion people with disabilities around the world, and in this video, Amos Miller shows CEO Satya Nadella how he uses the app to navigate the Microsoft campus in Redmond:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VmbQGCZmgsU
7) What Is WordPress And Should You Use It?
While this article is not specific to accessibility, I, Aaron Di Blasi, Publisher for Top Tech Tidbits, and web developer for Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd., can attest to the general accessibility of the WordPress suite for blind, visually impaired, deaf, deafblind and disabled website developers. Here at Mind Vault we host WordPress websites for several BVI clients that in turn administrate these sites themselves through WordPress. It is an incredibly flexible and accessible platform for web development and this article outlines many of the reasons that I recommend it to clients so often:
https://www.androidauthority.com/what-is-wordpress-3199470/
8) Apple Fixed a Serious iOS Security Flaw — Have You Updated Yet?
Plus: Chrome patches another zero-day flaw, Microsoft closes up 100 vulnerabilities, Android gets a significant patch, and more:
https://www.wired.com/story/apple-fixed-a-serious-ios-security-flaw-have-you-updated-yet/
9) Making Events Accessible
The W3C's Education and Outreach Working Group (EOWG) has updated the article, "Checklist for meetings, conferences, training, and presentations that are remote/virtual, in-person, or hybrid". Find it at:
https://www.w3.org/WAI/teach-advocate/accessible-presentations/
10) Lost in Transcription: Auto-Captions Often Fall Short on Zoom, Facebook, Google Meet, and YouTube
And here is a study on how well, or not, automatic subtitles work in many popular online meeting platforms:
https://www.consumerreports.org/disability-rights/auto-captions-often-fall-short-on-zoom-facebook-and-others-a9742392879/
11) Should I Use a Button or a Link?
This article from Ashlee M Boyer describes the difference between a button and a link on a webpage and when to use each from an accessibility perspective:
https://ashleemboyer.com/blog/should-i-use-a-button-or-a-link
12) Small Steps: Celebrating Four Accessibility Wins
Deborah Edwards-Oñoro highlights 4 well-known entities that have recently started including alternative text in their social media posts based on some advocacy. Do you have any accessibility success stories. If so, please feel free to share in the contact form or @samarositz on Twitter:
https://www.lireo.com/small-steps-celebrating-four-accessibility-wins/
13) The Last of Us Part 1 Accessibility Review — Can I Play That?
Can I Play That's Ben Bayliss has a mostly positive review of The Last of Us Part 1's accessibility features:
https://caniplaythat.com/2022/08/31/the-last-of-us-part-1-accessibility-review-can-i-play-that/
14) Mac Accessibility Resources
Here is a nice collection of Mac utilities and applications for accessibility curated by Aaron Hewitt:
https://aaron-gh.github.io/Mac-Accessibility-Hub/contact.html
15) CTRL + F6 Mystery Revealed in Excel
The Ctrl+F6 shortcut in Excel doesn't behave the same way as Word or PowerPoint. It changed a few years ago to behave differently from what most Office users expect. Ctrl + F6 will switch (cycle through) the open windows in Word or PowerPoint. It's a quick way to move between different documents/slides. Since Windows doesn't have a global shortcut to cycle through open windows of an app, it's a useful shortcut to remember:
https://office-watch.com/2022/ctrl-f6-mystery-revealed-in-excel/
16) An Introduction and Overview of Pages for macOS (The 2022 Edition)
To help start off a new school year, Tyler gives us a podcast demonstration covering some of the aspects of Pages for macOS using VoiceOver:
https://www.applevis.com/podcasts/introduction-overview-pages-macos-2022-edition
17) SuperNova 21.03 Now Available
We are pleased to announce that a free update is now available for all SuperNova and Dolphin screen reader customers running version 21:
https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/news?id=522
18) How To Make A Non-Contiguous Selection in Microsoft Word And File Explorer Using NVDA | YouTube | User Thee Quinn
Watch this video to find out how to make a non-contiguous selection in Microsoft Word and in File explorer with NVDA. This video was frequently suggested in my comments. The Clip Contents Designer add on is also featured in this video to make non-contiguous selection of text. Check out my website for the transcript for the video (website link is in the video description). Enjoy!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vRPRmUw0cqQ&t=3s
19) How to Use the Emergency SOS Feature on Your Smartphone
Let's hope you never need it — but it's important to know how it works on your phone:
https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-use-emergency-sos-smartphone/
20) Cache the World Opt-In Preview From Mozilla Firefox
Firefox's accessibility engine dates back many, many years, having received a hurried but less than ideal update with Firefox's move to a multi-process architecture about 5 years ago. The current Firefox multi-process accessibility architecture suffers from considerable, sometimes catastrophic performance issues and is more costly and difficult to maintain than they would like. These deficiencies prompted the team to design and build a newer, faster and more maintainable accessibility engine and the team has dubbed that project "Cache the World". It's called that because the new engine automatically sends information from web content processes to a cache in the browser's main process for consumption by assistive technologies:
https://blog.mozilla.org/accessibility/cache-the-world-opt-in-preview/
21) Six Months With Android: A Journey From A Blind Perspective
During the last six months, I've used Android exclusively as my primary device. I made calls with it, texted with it, read emails with it, browsed the web, Reddit, Twitter, and Facebook with it, and played games on it. Now, I'm going to express my thoughts on it, its advancements, and its issues. This will contain mostly opinions, or entirely opinions, depending on whether you really love Android or not. But whatever your stance, these are my experiences with the operating system. My issues may not be your issues, and so on:
https://medium.com/@r.d.t.prater/six-months-with-android-a-journey-from-a-blind-perspective-8637fa92fad4
22) News From The Technology Field | Perkins School for the Blind
Read about the latest news, participate in surveys, and learn about upcoming events and opportunities for educators and/or students with low vision and blindness:
https://www.perkins.org/paths-to-technology/news-updates-for-assistive-technology/
23) Microsoft Edge Dev 106.0.1363.0 Update Improves Narration
Microsoft Edge Dev's Narrator can now read aloud a thumbs up or down following a recent update:
https://www.windowscentral.com/software-apps/microsoft-edge-dev-106013630-update-improves-narration
24) NV Access In-Process for August 25th 2022
We've got lots of new things this week, including a surprise release and a new beta:
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-25th-august-2022/
25) TPGi Newsletter | July 2022 | The Insider News On Accessibility — Straight From The Experts
Topics include: Humans and Machines in Accessibility Testing | Section 508 Checklist for Accessibility | Make Any Web Page Accessible | Ensure Third Party Content is Accessible | Improve Your Accessibility Testing Skills With FREE ARC Training Sessions:
https://email.tpgi.com/july-accessibility-newsletter-from-tpgi
26) Ten Amazing AI Websites That You Can Try Right Now
This article, written by Tidbits Publisher Aaron Di Blasi for Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd., is not specific to accessibility, but we're including it in this week's Tidbits because we believe that a few of the tools may have benefit to BVI individuals as they develop, in addition to providing all readers with a general sense of the current state of AI:
https://mvsltd.com/news/ten-amazing-ai-websites-that-you-can-try-right-now/
27) Freedom Scientific September 2022 Training Events
The Freedom Scientific training team offers ongoing opportunities for you to join live training sessions and advance your skills:
https://blog.freedomscientific.com/september-2022-training-events/
28) 3D Printing Could Improve Accessibility By Helping Blind Scientists to Read Data
Accessibility, especially in academia, has been a topic of conversation for quite some time. People with a wide range of disabilities have the right to certain accommodations in order to allow them to work or study at the same level, however, often places do not even do the bare minimum. Thankfully, one Baylor Study has now shown how that does not need to be the case for blind scientists thanks to 3D printing. They hope that by turning scientific data into tactile graphics, they will be able to eliminate barriers that have caused the exclusion of individuals with blindness from pursuing chemistry education:
https://www.3dnatives.com/en/3d-printing-blind-scientists-260820224/
29) 'Mind-Reading' Technology Can Turn Brain Activity Into Images
Researchers at Radboud University in the Netherlands have developed technology that can "read minds" by turning a person's neurological activity into stunningly accurate pictures:
https://www.extremetech.com/extreme/339085-mind-reading-technology-can-turn-brain-activity-into-images
30) Human Sight Could Be Restored for Blind People, Thanks to These 4 New Technologies
From a photovoltaic retinal prosthesis to visual stimulation through ultrasound waves, these futuristic techniques offer hope for blindness:
https://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/a40835515/future-technologies-to-restore-sight/
31) Neosensory Launches New Hearing Loss Solution, Outperforming Hearing Aids
Neosensory, a technology company designing breakthrough solutions for hearing health, is thrilled to announce the launch of its latest solution: a wristband for people with hearing loss to experience speech without hearing aids or invasive surgery. Clarify is a ground-breaking wristband and the first alternative to hearing aids and sound amplifiers on the market in a generation:
https://ca.sports.yahoo.com/news/neosensory-launches-hearing-loss-solution-130000875.html?src=rss
32) Gene Therapy Partly Restores Cone Receptors in Children Born Completely Colorblind
Gene therapy has partly restored the function of the retina's cone receptors in two children who were born completely colorblind, reports a new study led by UCL researchers:
https://www.technologynetworks.com/tn/news/gene-therapy-partly-restores-cone-receptors-in-children-born-completely-colorblind-365039
➜ Press Releases and Other News
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Press Release or Other News item for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) AccessReady Reporter | Issue 30 | August 25th 2022
The Reporter Newsletter is a service of Access Ready Inc. which is an independent, non-profit, cross-disability education and advocacy organization promoting a policy of inclusion and accessibility of information and communications technology (ICT). For people with disabilities, accessible information and communications technology is a necessity, not a luxury or a convenience, which fosters independence, economic self-sufficiency, and active, meaningful participation in civic life:
https://accessreadyreporter.org/issue-30-august-25-2022.html
2) Aira and BlindShell Partner, Adding Another Choice to 'Aira Everywhere'
Aira and BlindShell have announced the availability of Aira in the BlindShell App Library and the 'Aira Everywhere' promotion for anyone new to Aira or new to the BlindShell phone:
https://aira.io/tactilephone/
3) ACB Immediate Past President Kim Charlson Receives Award for Excellence in Accessibility Leadership from The Kennedy Center
Kim Charlson was selected out of a diverse pool of nominees to receive a John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts Award for Excellence in Accessibility Leadership at the organization's Leadership Exchange in Arts and Disability (LEAD) conference held in Raleigh, NC, in early August, 2022. The Award for Excellence in Accessibility Leadership recognizes a lifetime of achievement in arts access, and was presented to Kim for her avid championing of audio description and life-long accessibility advocacy:
https://www.acb.org/kim-charlson-lead-award-2022
4) 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://goodmenproject.com/featured-content/why-getting-more-people-with-disabilities-developing-technology-is-good-for-everyone/
5) Blind Caregiver Doesn't Let Disability Slow Her Down From Caring For Bethesda Seniors
A Bethesda, Maryland blind caregiver is being recognized for her service to seniors living in the community:
https://wjla.com/news/local/bethesda-maryland-blind-caregiver-michelle-lindsay-disability-seniors-griswold-home-care-griswold-home-care-living-facility-doctor-jamaica
6) UOW's 3D-Printed Models Help Teach Chemistry To Vision-Impaired Students
A University of Wollongong lecturer has created a set of 3D-printed models of the body's molecules to make sure visually impaired students in his chemistry classes don't miss out on learning the intricacies of molecular biology:
https://www.theadvocate.com.au/story/7875167/3d-printed-models-help-teach-chemistry-to-vision-impaired-students/
7) Pieces of the Past: Cultural Artifacts Uncovered by PG&E Help Educate Visually-impaired Community
Napa County — While working to restore power and remove hazardous trees after the 2017 Nuns Fire, a PG&E forester found what turned out to be ancient artifacts in the mountains west of Napa that shed new light on the region's rich cultural history:
https://www.pgecurrents.com/2022/08/24/pieces-of-the-past-cultural-artifacts-uncovered-by-pge-help-educate-visually-impaired-community/
8) Disneyland Paris Introduces Audio Description Across the Resort for Those Who Are Visually Impaired
Disneyland Paris is introducing audio description across the resort for those who are visually impaired. There will be many locations equipped with this including attractions, restaurants, hotels and more:
https://www.laughingplace.com/w/news/2022/08/24/disneyland-paris-introduces-audio-description-across-the-resort-for-those-who-are-visually-impaired/
9) IRS Continues to Work Toward Accessibility for All Taxpayers
It can be intimidating to receive correspondence from the IRS — but what if you couldn't understand any of it?
https://news.bloombergtax.com/financial-accounting/irs-continues-to-work-toward-accessibility-for-all-taxpayers
➜ Surveys
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related survey for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-survey or locate "Survey Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Surveys: From APH
Closes: Ongoing Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
2) Survey: Data Visualization Research at Boston College
Closes: September 22nd 2022 Hello, there! We are data visualization researchers at Boston College. We are currently studying how charts and graphs can be made more accessible for blind and low-vision users. For this, we are looking for people that meet the following requirements: blind or low-vision, screen reader user, in the USA, and at least 18 years or older. If this is you, please take part in our study! Your participation will help develop and improve different strategies to guide the exploration of charts. The study will take approximately 90 minutes. The study will be conducted online via a remote zoom call. We will compensate you with up to $50 in Amazon gift cards for your participation. To take part, send an email with the subject "Study Sign Up" to joynersh@bc.edu 📧️. If you have any questions, you can use the same address.
3) Survey: Robotics Institute at OSU is Testing A New Navigation Aid, The Optiband
Closes: October 1st 2022 The Robotics Institute at OSU is testing a new handheld navigation aid, the Optiband, which uses vibrations to help a user understand their environment better. The Optiband was designed with a blind stakeholder to be more than an obstacle avoidance device, and helps users gain spatial and depth perception. We are interested in talking to BVI persons about our device, and whether or not they are willing to test out a model of the device. We are running a study and are actively recruiting participants, to whom we will provide a device as well as cash compensation for their time. If you are interested or have any questions/concerns, please send an email to: bontulaa@oregonstate.edu 📧️ or send a text to (541)-360-9491 📱️.
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Podcast Episode for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-podcast-episode or locate "Podcast Episode Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Mosen at Large Episode 194: Aira Comes To The Envision Smart Glasses, Apples Got New iPhones Coming, And A Final Discussion About Literacy In A Blindness Context
2) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 90: Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 90 (Part 3)
August 27th 2022 | In this episode we thank those who have donated. We then shift focus to Part 3 of Privacy Permissions Account Activity Controls. We have unboxing of Samsung Galaxy Watch 5, Buds 2, and Fold 4. We conclude the 4 finger gesture in our Talkback Highlights:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqq-oeLQHV3FbhKpymQHSuqE
3) Blind Abilities Episode 883: Aira Explorer App Goes Live on the BlindShell Classic 2 Accessible Cell Phone. Jenine Stanley, Director of Customer Communications at Aira Brings Us the Breaking News!
August 29th 2022 | Jenine Stanley joins Pete and Jeff in the Blind Abilities Studio to break the news that the Aira Explorer App is now on the BlindShell Classic 2 accessible Cell Phone. Listen in as Jenine demonstrates the BlindShell navigation, the voice and of course Aira Explorer being right in the menu. With all tactile buttons, the BlindShell Classic 2 is becoming the tactile button accessible cell phone we thought we would always have and now Aira is available in the BlindShell Classic 2 app library. To learn more about the specials offered by Aira and BlindShell, checkout the Aira Announcement here. Sign up for the Aira/BlindShell Webinar. Happening on August 30, 2022, at 02:00 PM in Eastern Time (US and Canada. And join the Aira WhatsApp Group to contribute and learn about the Aira Explorer experiences. You can also check out the BlindShell Classic 2 group on Groups.io. Listen here:
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7602
4) Eyes on Success Episode 2235: Pole Dancing for Fitness
August 31st 2022 | Have you ever considered becoming a pole dancer? Surprisingly, the experience might not be what you would have expected. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Lauren Back, a blind pole dancer, who has enjoyed participating in several pole dancing groups and extols the virtues of pole dancing as a means of exercise and socializing with others:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202235.htm
5) FSCast 219, Ryan Jones Previews Our 2023 Software Public Betas, And We Meet Svetlana, Freedom Scientific's July Student Of The Month
August 31st 2022 | On FSCast 219, we spend some time with Ryan Jones, Freedom Scientific's new Vice President of Software Product Management. He gives us a bit of his background, talks about what's coming in the JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion 2023 product betas, and demonstrates the new JAWS Smart Glance feature. Then a visit with Svetlana, the Freedom Scientific July Student of the Month:
https://blog.freedomscientific.com/fscast-219-ryan-jones-previews-our-2023-software-public-betas-and-we-meet-svetlana-freedom-scientifics-july-student-of-the-month/
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Webinar, Training Course or Event for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-event or locate "Webinar / Training Course Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) StellarTrek Launch Webinar Introducing Our New Digital Orientation And Mobility Assistant, The StellarTrek | Humanware
September 1st 2022 | 6AM PT, 7AM MT, 8AM CT, 9AM ET, 1PM GMT | How about a digital orientation assistant designed to help you travel independently and accomplish your daily tasks? Guiding you through the final 40 feet. Like a friend always ready to lend a hand, the StellarTrek's built-in optical sensor and artificial intelligence locate and recognize street addresses, doors and entrances, and provide audio and voice guidance to the last 40 feet of your destination. Recognizing and reading text aloud. It recognizes and reads aloud texts such as street or entrance signs, ingredient lists, receipts or nutritional values on food labels. Its cameras offer text recognition capability in 14 languages. Improving accessibility, mobility, and autonomy. With all-day battery life, there's no fear of your smartphone running out of steam for navigation tasks. Its advanced features and a touchscreen menu, StellarTrek now makes a world of possibilities available, independently and safely. Join us to discover the brand new StellarTrek, our new orientation and mobility device! We will be holding 2 sessions on September 1, 2022. On the agenda: 1. Out of the box experience. 2. Physical description of the device. 3. Features (OCR, address recognition, dictation). 4. Differences between the VR Trek and the StellarTrek. 5. Maps. 6. Prices. Register here for the September 1st 2022, 9:00 AM (EDT) session:
https://humanware.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN__qGQc7gkR_GYYmA-xVsDXg
2) StellarTrek Launch Webinar Introducing Our New Digital Orientation And Mobility Assistant, The StellarTrek | Humanware
September 1st 2022 | 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12PM GMT on 9/2 | How about a digital orientation assistant designed to help you travel independently and accomplish your daily tasks? Guiding you through the final 40 feet. Like a friend always ready to lend a hand, the StellarTrek's built-in optical sensor and artificial intelligence locate and recognize street addresses, doors and entrances, and provide audio and voice guidance to the last 40 feet of your destination. Recognizing and reading text aloud. It recognizes and reads aloud texts such as street or entrance signs, ingredient lists, receipts or nutritional values on food labels. Its cameras offer text recognition capability in 14 languages. Improving accessibility, mobility, and autonomy. With all-day battery life, there's no fear of your smartphone running out of steam for navigation tasks. Its advanced features and a touchscreen menu, StellarTrek now makes a world of possibilities available, independently and safely. Join us to discover the brand new StellarTrek, our new orientation and mobility device! We will be holding 2 sessions on September 1, 2022. On the agenda: 1. Out of the box experience. 2. Physical description of the device. 3. Features (OCR, address recognition, dictation). 4. Differences between the VR Trek and the StellarTrek. 5. Maps. 6. Prices. Register here for the September 1st 2022, 8:00 PM (EDT) session:
https://humanware.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_yYLEVSugSUmGmbihUcjzrQ
3) Introduction to NVDA (Non-Visual Desktop Access)
September 6th 2022 | 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 11PM GMT | Collaborated Sponsored by the Pennsylvania Organization of Parents of Blind Children and the Blind Parents Group with the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania. Facilitator: Chris Westbrook. Dates: Tuesdays, starting September 6, 2022 for 9 weeks. Time: 7PM to 8PM ET. Location: Virtually through Zoom. Price: Free. If you wish to join in, please email Stacie Leap at stacie.leap@gmail.com 📧️ with the following information: Full Name, Email Address, Phone Number, and your proficiency level with NVDA( beginner, intermediate, advanced, etc.) NVDA is a free screen reading software for blind and visually impaired that blind people use in order to navigate the digital world. More information about the program can be found at https://www.nvaccess.org/. You do not need to have NVDA installed on your computer prior to the start of this course. Chris will walk through everything so you have nothing to worry about. You do not need to be a parent to join us. NVDA is for everybody so this class is as well. For more information, please contact Chris Westbrook at westbchris@gmail.com 📧️ or (570) 506-4760 📱️.
4) Unseen Touchscreen | Canadian Council of the Blind
September 7th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Based on the free eBook Personal Power: Getting the Most From iOS as a Totally Blind user, this course is taught by the author. Michael Feir shares lessons learned over twelve years of owning an iPhone and using it completely blind. This course takes blind iPhone users through all aspects of getting the most from their devices. Topics discussed include: Setting up an iPhone without sighted assistance. How to use the VoiceOver screen reader. Using the apps included on your iPhone. The economics of owning an iPhone. Obtaining accessible apps from the app store. Using apps which promote mental and physical health. Reading books on and iPhone. Listening to Internet radio and podcasts. Participating in social media. Shopping online for goods and services. Playing accessible games on your iPhone. And many more topics:
https://ccbnational.net/shaggy/get-together-with-technology/
5) Learn All About the New and Improved Amigo by Enhanced Vision
September 8th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, XXX GMT | Vispero Presenters: Mike Wood and Michelle Williams. Summary: In this webinar, you'll learn that our new, redesigned classic not only has an increased screen size and new unique contrast features, but the new Amigo has a total of 13 upgrades and improved features. This is another presentation you won't want to miss! Objectives: Learn about the benefits of next-level contrast features. Discover the advantages of having two dedicated cameras in one device. Learn about and see the all-new Live Image Panning feature and why you need it. Register for this webinar on Zoom:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_IP5cuf1PSdK1NEEWZ1p5tw
6) Pixel Phone | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
September 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Has Android bridged the gap with Apple with this remarkable new device? All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
7) Requirements Beyond WCAG: An Accessibility Decision Tree | TPGi
September 13th 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Presenter: Mitchell Evan, Senior Accessibility Engineer. WCAG is essential, but it's not the only accessibility standard. User needs go beyond WCAG for particular kinds of digital products, and regulations and standards such as Section 508 and EN 301 549 help address these needs. In this webinar, we'll show how these other standards apply to documents, native apps, hardware devices, and particular product functions of websites and ICT (information and communication technologies):
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-september-13-at-11am-et-requirements-beyond-wcag-an-accessibility-decision-tree/
8) 13th Annual Inclusion in Science, Learning A New Direction, Conference on Disability (ISLAND)
September 16th 2022 | The 13th annual Inclusion in Science, Learning A New Direction, Conference on Disability (ISLAND) will be held virtually on Friday, September 16 and Saturday, September 17, 2022. All times on the schedule are in the eastern time zone. This year's conference will be hosted by Princeton University. We want to thank everyone in advance for your interest in attending the 2022 ISLAND conference. Also, on-line registration is now open for this year's conference. There is a $25 registration fee for registration if it is completed by September 1, 2021. Please be sure to check back as the conference nears for final program and other details. For questions regarding this year's ISLAND conference, please contact the conference organizers at island@princeton.edu 📧️. For more information regarding registration and other details, go to:
https://islandconference.org/
9) 13th Annual Inclusion in Science, Learning A New Direction, Conference on Disability (ISLAND)
September 17th 2022 | The 13th annual Inclusion in Science, Learning A New Direction, Conference on Disability (ISLAND) will be held virtually on Friday, September 16 and Saturday, September 17, 2022. All times on the schedule are in the eastern time zone. This year's conference will be hosted by Princeton University. We want to thank everyone in advance for your interest in attending the 2022 ISLAND conference. Also, on-line registration is now open for this year's conference. There is a $25 registration fee for registration if it is completed by September 1, 2021. Please be sure to check back as the conference nears for final program and other details. For questions regarding this year's ISLAND conference, please contact the conference organizers at island@princeton.edu 📧️. For more information regarding registration and other details, go to:
https://islandconference.org/
10) Digital Accessibility - Ask Me Anything (AMA) | TPGi
September 21st 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenters: Mark Miller, Director of Sales and Host of the Real People, Real Stories Podcast. Join TPGi for a live AMA event with Mark Miller. Mark has over 10 years of digital accessibility knowledge and has supported accessibility teams at all points in their journey. No matter where you are on your accessibility journey, there is always something new to learn. Get answers to your top accessibility questions:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-september-21-at-12pm-et-digital-accessibility-ask-me-anything-ama/
11) Blindness & Diabetes Webinar: Dexcom vs Freestyle Libre | Accessible Pharmacy Services For The Blind
September 23rd 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Blindness and Diabetes Webinar: Dexcom vs Freestyle Libre. Please join Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind and University of Pennsylvania's Diabetes Education Center as we compare Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) devices available to our blind, deafblind, and low vision patients living with diabetes. We will be discussing differences between Dexcom and Freestyle Libre as well as their accessibility features. This webinar will have captioning and a live ASL interpreter. If you are unable to attend, please register to receive the webinar audio and video via email:
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/blindness-diabetes-webinar-dexcom-vs-freestyle-libre/
12) iOS 16 Review And Editing Voice Memos | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
October 1st 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Every year we look for accessibility improvements in our i-devices. See what is new in this latest version of the Apple operating system. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
13) WordPress Accessibility Day
November 2nd 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | WordPress Accessibility Day is a free, 24-hour online event scheduled to start at 15:00 UTC (11:00 US Eastern, 8:00 US Pacific) on Wednesday, November 2nd. The conference will be held virtually so you can present from anywhere worldwide. Here are some other important things to know about speaking at WordPress Accessibility Day: We will provide an accessible speaking experience — the presentation platform will be screen reader-friendly, and we will have captions and sign language interpretation available for speakers as needed. You don't have to have speaking experience! We would love to have first-time speakers present and can support you in presenting as needed. You don't have to be an "expert" or have any special certifications. Anyone with something to share related to accessibility on the web or in WordPress is invited to apply. You can share your journey learning about accessibility or your experience as a person with a disability even if you don't think you've reached the end of that journey yet. Your topic doesn't have to be explicitly WordPress related. While we want some talks specific to WordPress and want to encourage developer-level presentations, not all talks need to be specific to WordPress. General website accessibility talks with broad applications for websites of all types and people of all levels of technical abilities are welcome. If you have an idea for a talk to share your knowledge or experiences about the intersection of WordPress and accessibility, we'd love to hear it!
https://wpaccessibility.day/weekend-plans-apply-to-speak-at-wp-accessibility-day/
14) AT Gifts for the Holidays | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Our annual look at gadgets and gizmos that will make your holiday season a successful one. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
15) ACB's 2022 Audio Description Awards Gala
November 29 2022 | The American Council of the Blind (ACB) proudly announces the second annual Audio Description Awards Gala on November 29, 2022. The Gala will once again celebrate outstanding achievements in audio description in media and expand awareness of its benefits. In recent years there has been enormous success in expanding audio description for audiences who are blind, low vision, or have other sensory disabilities that create barriers to full inclusion in visual media. "The Audio Description Awards Gala will celebrate the best of the best within the art and science of inclusive audio-described media," said Eric Bridges, ACB's Executive Director. "Together we will work to expand awareness of the transformative value that audio description brings to the lives of people with disabilities:"
https://acb.org/save-the-date-2022-AD-Awards
16) Blind Health Expo | The Accessible Pharmacy
December 2nd 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | The Accessible Pharmacy Blind Health Expo will be the largest virtual expo of healthcare information, products, services, and medication for individuals who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision. Join thousands of other attendees and register now for free!
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/blind-health-expo/
17) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
December 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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
✍ List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. Fill out this short form to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-buy-sell-trade or learn more on the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) FOR SALE: One Index Basic D V5 Embosser
Listing Date: 8/25/2022 | Price: $4,500.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Show used only. Like new. Only used twice to show less than 50 pages total embossed. Index Basic D V5 Embosser. Includes Travel Lock. Will be shipped free matter unless arrangements for other shipping is made. $4,500 obo. | Contact: Ashley via email at: crazy4chemistry@att.net 📧️ or by phone / text at: (972) 369-6010 📱️. |
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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 from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Control the climate of your home independently! The VIP 3000 is a universal heating — cooling talking thermostat This accessible digital thermostat is specifically designed to offer audio playback of indoor temperature, temperature settings and programming instructions so blind and visually impaired users can independently & precisely manage their indoor comfort. Don't over pay. Read more at:
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 every day 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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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 Next Generation in Accessibility
Need to quickly access a distant computer with minimal fuss? Need to quickly convert image documents into readable text? Today's students and working professionals demand more of their technology. Employers expect more of their workforce. Pneuma Solutions is bridging the gap using the best in machine learning to connect you to your environment when you need it, how you need it. Give us a try, and experience accessibility on a whole new level:
https://pneumasolutions.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
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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Combine Learning And Gaming For A Fun Braille Adventure With Polly!
APH and Thinkerbell Labs are excited to introduce Polly, complete with customizable UEB lessons, songs, games, and stories! Join our waiting list to know when Polly is available:
https://www.aph.org/polly-wait-list/
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
➜ New Products
New jumbo leather waist pack with cane holder, new no bouncy neck pouchy to keep your phone camera stable, new phone case neck pouch combo, new Victor Stream and Trek "protect and go" case, new Lyric scanner bag, and for our puppies, new raincoats and "portable place" very soft mats for use in rideshare vehicles, restaurants, etc., when you want your dog to be comfortable. Lots of products, lots of choices, and best of all, lots of bargains! Call Barry for either of these new products at (617) 969-7500 📱️, or by email at barry.scheur@gmail.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, affordable, 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
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: That Real Blind Tech Show
➜ That Real Blind Tech Show Episode 96: We Got More Resolutions, ACB Style!
It's a fully packed That Real Blind Tech show lair. Join us as we recap this year's ACB Resolutions. We chime in with all of our opinions about this year's resolutions, and as usual some hilarity ensues. You will not want to miss both AirPods issues that take place on this episode. We are adding do not listen to That Real Blind Tech show on the bus as we are not responsible for the stares you will receive when laughing or cackling like a lunatic!
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-96-we-got-more-resolutions-acb-style
Sponsor Since: August 11th 2022
Website: https://blindtechshow.com/ 🌐
Email: ThatRealBlindTechShow@gmail.com 📧️
Social: Facebook Page | Facebook Group | Twitter
Listen: Apple Podcasts | Audible | Google Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube
Hosts: Brian Fischler | Ed Plumacher | Allison Meloy | Jenine Stanley
Goals: We want to educate you on the latest tech for the blindness community. You'll learn what is worth keeping and what you need to return. Our goals are: To inform, inspire and educate our audience. Feature guests and products that bring you value. Continuously improve and deliver the best content.
About: A podcast discussing the good & bad of assistive technology for the low vision & totally blind. No longer focused on just Apple VoiceOver technology. That Real Blind Tech show covers all the fantastic talking tech and gadgets out there for the low vision and blindness community. Common topics include Apple's VoiceOver, JAWS, Microsoft Narrator, NVDA, Amazon Alexa and VoiceView, Google Assistant and Android. Basically, if a device can talk to you, we are going to be talking about it. That Real Blind Tech Show will not only educate you, but it will also make you laugh. Listeners are encouraged to not use treadmills or drink hot coffee while listening to our show, or accidents can and have occurred. Dishes have been broken while listening to That Real Blind Tech Show, and while we are responsible for the laughs, we are in no way responsible for the injuries or bills that pile up. Remember to keep it Real and also don't believe anything you hear on That Real Blind Tech Show.
Home | Episodes | Blog | Contact | Subscribe
Sponsor: Aira
Sponsor Since: August 4th 2022
Website: https://aira.io/ 🌐
Download the App: Apple App Store | Google Play Store
Plans and Pricing: https://aira.io/pricing/
Phone: NA: +1.800.835.1934 📱️ | AU: +1.800.765.096 📱️ | UK: +0.800.046.5668 📱️ | NZ: +1.800.425.451 📱️
Text Message: NA: +1.858.242.4457 📲 | AU: +61.488.839.767 📲 | UK: +44.149.320.2474 📲
Email: support@aira.io 📧️
Social: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
About: Aira's mission is to remove barriers and make the world more accessible with visual interpreting.
We provide a live, human-to-human professional assistance service, an accommodation or productivity tool, that enhances independence by delivering on-demand, skilled and reliable visual interpreting for just about any task. Using the powerful combination of a camera and the Aira app on someone's device of 'choice', a professionally-trained agent will assist by visually interpreting what is in the camera's view or on screen, from describing to reading, from explaining to navigating - just about anything, safely and securely. Aira supports a growing range of devices including smart and tactile button phones, desktop computers and soon, wearables.
Whether you are involved in the work of business, the work of school or the work of life, Aira enhances everyday efficiency, engagement, and independence. Used by employees and customers of hundreds of organizations including airports, banks, the largest software companies, financial firms, retailers and universities, we invite you to join the community, access the Aira app today and try it for free.
https://aira.io/download-and-try-it/
Step One: Subscribe and Download. Pick the plan that lets you explore on your terms and on your time, sign up in a few minutes, and download the Aira app to your smartphone. Plans shown are for the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Add or cancel at any time.
Step Two: Connect with an Aira Agent. On the first call, connect with one of our certified, specially-trained Agents and learn how everything works.
Step Three: Real-time Assistance. At the touch of a button, Aira delivers instant access to visual information, when and where you want it.
Sponsor: Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
➜ Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore: Touch Tomorrow in Today's Products
Serving blind people since 1999, we're a family-owned, forward-thinking company offering both tried-and-true and exciting new products for blind and low vision consumers. We design and carry self-voicing educational software, Braille supplies, talking gadgets, adapted household items, tactile card and board games, audible toys and gift ideas. Passionate about innovation, we've also created dozens of products from scratch when a suitable solution did not exist. Shop online at http://www.braillebookstore.com/ and enjoy fast, free shipping.
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: http://www.braillebookstore.com/ 🌐
Phone (Toll Free): (800) 987-1231 📱️
Fax (Toll Free): (800) 985-1231 ░
Email: Sales@BrailleBookstore.com 📧️
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time.
About: Welcome to Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore. We have been supplying products to blind people and their families since 1999. We offer thousands of Braille books, toys, games, kitchen aids, and talking products. We have unbeatable prices, fast, free shipping, and great customer service! We have tons of Braille books and cool products to choose from; so grab a cup of coffee, relax, and we'll give you a quick tour:
Products:
➜ Timekeeping
➜ Housewares
➜ On The Go
➜ Low Vision Products
➜ Toys and Games
➜ Gift Shop
➜ Braille Workshop
➜ Braille Bookstore
➜ Greeting Cards
➜ Copy Center
➜ Computer Lab
➜ Popular Products
➜ New Products
If you need some fresh ideas or have questions, you can also check out our Shopping Guides.
Sponsor: Fable
➜ Free and Accessible Training for the Tech Sector
Fable Pathways helps you gain the skills that you need to work in the tech sector with a free, accessible, and on-demand program. Learn from industry leaders with disabilities to take your career to the next level, like Kelly Ford, Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, who introduces GitHub and VS Code using a screen reader. Spend less time and energy trying to access courses with your assistive technology and focus on the content that matters to you, with Fable Pathways' accessible platform. Sign up today!
https://www.fablepathways.com/
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: https://fablepathways.com/ 🌐
Email: community@makeitfable.com 📧️
Phone: (888) 212-3532 📱️ Extension 810
About: Just like curb cuts help everyone get on and off sidewalks, designing digital products with accessibility in mind helps make the internet more accessible for everyone. Fable is an accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities. Fable connects people with disabilities to accessibility managers, user researchers, designers, and developers to build incredible and accessible user experiences.
Opportunities:
➜ Fable Pathways: Fable Pathways is a free skill development program for people with disabilities interested in working in the tech sector. Sign up to take your career to the next level. Courses include "Getting started in web development" taught by Kelly Ford, a screen reader user, and Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, and "Becoming a manager" taught by Fable's Head of Accessibility Innovation, Kate Kalcevich. Instructors are subject matter experts in their fields and have lived experience with disability. Pathways courses are free, self-paced and assistive-technology-friendly. Sign up now at https://fablepathways.com/.
➜ Fable's Community of Accessibility Testers: Work from home to contribute to real changes in digital accessibility and make the internet a more accessible place for everyone. Ever leave a website because it was too hard to navigate? Because it was missing button labels? Because it didn't respond to voice commands? Us too. Our community of testers who use assistive technologies work from home and contribute to real changes in digital accessibility with recognizable brands. Earn money to share your feedback on websites and apps of your favorite brands and work with companies that care. No experience required and no resume required. Fable is looking for assistive technology users in the USA and Canada to work the hours that they want, from the comfort of their own homes. Learn more at https://fablepathways.com/community/.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ SuperNova Supports Microsoft Teams
If you use Microsoft Teams, check out the new SuperNova update (all editions) for Teams support plus other cool improvements. Find out more about what's new and download a full, unrestricted 30-day trial of SuperNova today!
https://yourdolphin.com/SuperNova/Trial
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Sponsor: Clusiv
➜ Looking For Blind Job-Seekers Wanting To Advance Their Salaries, Careers And Digital Accessibility For The Blind
Are you interested in learning new tech skills and working remotely while earning a competitive salary? At Clusiv.io we have created the world's first digitally accessible e-Learning platform built by the blind, and built for the blind. Visit the link provided and request Clusiv through your Vocational Rehab counselor for lifetime access to our e-Learning platform with courses such as Business Applications, JAWS, and more:
https://clusiv.io/
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
Your Name Here
0 of 18 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are currently 0 of 18 packages available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, August 25, 2022 - Volume 873
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.
Subscribers: 7,420 Opt-In Subscribers were sent this issue via email. 132 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: How Does Getting Paid While Traveling For The Holidays Sound? Train For A Remote Career With Competitive Pay With Clusiv.io
We specialize in training our job seekers for purpose-driven careers with competitive salaries that they have earned and truly deserve. Our e-learning platform, which is built by the blind, and built for the blind will give you lifetime access to an ever-expanding curriculum list filled with courses such as JAWS Bootcamp, Business Applications, Computer Science and other Employment-Based educational courses that focus on resume and interview preparation.
Clusiv's goal is to not only train and prepare you for a meaningful career, but also to create a network of blind and visually impaired professionals that smash through digital accessibility barriers and ensure that emerging technologies focus on accessibility first, not last. If you're interested in our mission, then request us through your state or VA Vocational Rehab counselor and visit Clusiv.io to sign up. No money will come out of your pocket, just more money into it! Learn more today at:
https://clusiv.io/?utm_source=tttb_august&utm_medium=top_tech_tid_bits
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Tidbit for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) YouTube Keyboard Shortcuts That Help You Save Time On The Site (7.2% of all clicks.)
YouTube is one of the most popular video streaming sites on today's Internet. What many desktop users do not know is that it supports keyboard shortcuts that may help save time on the site or speed up certain actions:
https://www.ghacks.net/2022/08/12/youtube-keyboard-shortcuts-help-you-save-time-on-the-site/
B.) Free iOS App Which Recognizes Traffic Related Objects (Crosswalk Signal, Crosswalk, and Traffic Signals) And Alerts You Through Voice Alerts (5.7% of all clicks.)
Suresh Bala writes: My high school daughter has created a free app for the Blind and Visually Impaired (BVI) community. Features: Detects traffic lights, crosswalk, announces/buzz pedestrian traffic light "Don't walk/Walk". This works even without a cell connection or Wi-Fi. Optimized for the US, but could work in other countries. We'd love for people to test and give us feedback. Support email: WalkAssist.app@gmail.com 📧️. App can be downloaded here::
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/walkassist/id1615852366
C.) JAWS Power Tip: How To Ignore Inline Frames on Web Pages (4.9% of all clicks.)
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/66.html
D.) Study Uncovers How Blind and Visually Impaired Individuals Navigate Social Challenges (4.4% of all clicks.)
A recent study highlights the range of uncomfortable situations people living with blindness or visual impairment encounter due to interpersonal communication challenges, and outlines strategies people with visual impairment use to navigate these situations:
https://news.ncsu.edu/2022/08/blind-visually-impaired-challenges/
E.) How to Enable Reader Mode in Google Chrome and Firefox (4.4% of all clicks.)
Chrome and Firefox both come with a reader mode to help declutter pages. Here's how to use the feature in both browsers:
https://www.makeuseof.com/enable-reader-mode-chrome-firefox/
2) No Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Packages Currently Available
If you would like to secure a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Package in the future we encourage you to add your company or organization name to our waiting list today by sending an email to our Publisher. There are currently two future sponsors on our waiting list:
publisher@toptechtidbits.com
3) Dolphin SuperNova Power Tip: Moving Focus Between Monitors With Supernova
Courtesy of Dolphin Computer Access:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/113.html
4) Sorted. What Is Apple TV? Is Apple TV A Smart TV? What's The Difference Between A Smart TV And A Set Top Box? How Do I Tell The Difference? | Aaron Di Blasi, Publisher, Top Tech Tidbits
Here at Tidbits we monitor many different BVI listservs and the following questions were recently asked and answered in a somewhat fragmented fashion, so we thought that it might help to sort these questions out here, in complete detail, once and for all. And I believe the very best way to do that is to simply answer the questions that were asked in the most straightforward manner possible. One by one. So here goes:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/112.html
5) Thunderbird 114 Roadmap: Sync, Global Message Index, Conversational View And More
Thunderbird 102 has just been out for some months, but development on Thunderbird 114, the next major release of the open source email client, is already ongoing:
https://www.ghacks.net/2022/08/16/thunderbird-114-roadmap-sync-global-message-index-conversational-view-and-more/
6) HumanWare Introduces New Digital Orientation And Mobility Assistant, The StellarTrek
In addition to the link below look for two different webinars (listed in our "Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events" section below) on September 1st discussing the launch:
https://store.humanware.com/hus/stellartrek.html
7) Hidden iPhone Tricks That Will Make Your Life Easier
While this article is not accessibility-specific, these tips, swipes, and settings are guaranteed to make using your phone both faster and simpler:
https://www.wired.com/story/hidden-iphone-tips-tricks/
8) NVDA 2022.2.1 Released
NV Access is pleased to announce that version 2022.2.1 of NVDA, the free screen reader for Microsoft Windows, is now available for download. This is a security update which fixes 1 security issue present in older versions of NVDA. We encourage all users to upgrade to this version:
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/nvda-2022-2-1/
9) Find The Best AI-Powered App To Transcribe Your Audio
Otter.ai's pricing is changing. As a result, The Verge has a range of alternative automated transcription services:
https://www.theverge.com/23316220/transcription-ai-otter-temi-how-to
10) Remote Incident Manager (Public Beta)
Remote Incident Manager (RIM) is an accessible remote desktop product for technical support and training offered by Pneuma Solutions. Try RIM free of charge during the public beta:
https://getrim.app/
11) What is Chessmart?
Chessmart (chess: smart) is an add-on for NVDA that provides a fully featured, completely accessible chess playing environment for blind and visually impaired chess players. It was released on Saturday, August 13th 2022. We've only played it a couple of times since its release but the interface seems to work well. Here's hoping that online support is coming soon:
https://github.com/blindpandas/chessmart
12) Envision And Aira Announce Strategic Partnership To Enhance Envision Glasses For People Who Are Blind Or Have Low Vision
Aira is coming to the Envision glasses. Users of the glasses will be able to call an Aira agent and use the camera mounted on the glasses for a hands-free experience:
https://aira.io/press-release-envision/
13) Welcome To Aira Desktop
While we're discussing Aira, we noticed that Aira Desktop is now available as a web application with updates since August 8th 2022:
https://aira.io/desktop/
14) Over-The-Counter Hearing Aids Will Bring Relief, But With Some Confusion
The FDA adjusted rules around purchasing hearing aids, making it easier for consumers to purchase them, and for personal sound amplification products. NPR has a good article on the subject:
https://www.npr.org/2022/08/17/1117934920/hearing-aids-over-the-counter-paying
15) The Best Ebook Subscription Services for Every Kind of Reader
You can read countless eBooks, listen to audiobooks, or browse comics with one of these WIRED-tested digital reading subscriptions:
https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-ebook-subscription-services/
16) Shift + Enter Is a Secret Shortcut Everyone Should Know
The Enter key can mean several things based on context. It can produce a line feed and carriage return, or it can submit a form or text field. With Shift + Enter, you can often toggle between those two modes with ease. Here's why — and how to use it:
https://www.howtogeek.com/825393/shift-enter-is-a-secret-shortcut-everyone-should-know/
17) LibreOffice 7.4 Community Release
LibreOffice 7.4 Community was released on 18 August 2022. Here is the official blog post about it, with much more information about the release and about LibreOffice:
https://taming-libreoffice.com/2022/08/libreoffice-7-4-community-release/
18) Ancient Art Technique Helps Visually Impaired Chemists
People who study chemistry use their eyes a lot, from looking at molecular structures to interpreting graphs. But researchers at Baylor University have now found a way to make chemistry more accessible to people with visual impairments, thanks to a modern twist on an ancient art form:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/evaamsen/2022/08/19/ancient-art-technique-helps-visually-impaired-chemists/?sh=228948042b6d
19) Mozilla Plans To Add Text Recognition Support To Firefox
Text recognition is a new feature that Mozilla plans to integrate in Firefox Stable. The main idea behind the feature is to add an option to Firefox to extract text content from images:
https://www.ghacks.net/2022/08/19/mozilla-plans-to-add-text-recognition-support-to-firefox/
20) Tactile Map of the United States of America | National Braille Press | $15
A full-color tactile map of the United States. State abbreviations appear on the map, and larger dots indicate the state capitals. A key includes the full state names and the capitals:
https://www.nbp.org/ic/nbp/US-MAP.html
➜ Press Releases and Other News
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Press Release or Other News item for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Envision And Aira To Bring On-Demand Sighted Guidance For The Blind To Smart Glasses
Announcing a new partnership, Envision and Aira have teamed up to create a unique combination of assistive technology with the potential to enhance the independence of blind people in unprecedented ways:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/gusalexiou/2022/08/23/envision-and-aira-to-bring-on-demand-sighted-guidance-for-the-blind-to-smart-glasses/?sh=12f61a613d51
2) I'm Blind, But I Didn't Tell Microsoft When I Interviewed For My Job
When Sameer Doshi first applied for an engineering post at Microsoft, he didn't tell his future employer that he was blind. In fact, he was so over prepared for all presentations and internal chats that it wasn't until months down the line that he finally acknowledged his blindness. Now, as a Director of Healthcare Emerging Opportunities at Microsoft, Doshi couldn't be happier with how the tech giant reacted to his revelation:
https://www.hcamag.com/ca/specialization/diversity-inclusion/im-blind-but-didnt-tell-microsoft-when-i-interviewed-for-my-job/417858
3) Small Specialty Home Provides Big Impact On Quality Living for Elderly Blind Women
The Mary Culver Home for Visually Impaired Women is dedicated to making life comfortable for its special residents. Under the leadership of Executive Director Amy Lepper, the home provides long-term life care for senior women who are visually impaired and blind:
https://www.timesnewspapers.com/webster-kirkwoodtimes/small-specialty-home-provides-big-impact-on-quality-living-for-elderly-blind-women/article_b3e64032-1e45-11ed-a0b5-3b5e0f9245e3.html
4) Court Holds that Website Accessibility Doesn't Require 100% Compliance
If you've ever received a demand letter alleging that your company's website isn't accessible to the blind or visually-impaired, it's likely that the claimant's attorney attached a report outlining a number of accessibility errors on the website. That's not surprising because most — if not all — major websites are likely to have some errors. But while some errors may affect a blind or visually impaired person's ability to navigate the website, others do not. One question that hasn't been previously addressed by any court, though, is whether 100% accessibility is necessary to avoid liability under the ADA. A California district court recently opined that it is not:
https://www.adlawaccess.com/2022/08/articles/court-holds-that-website-accessibility-doesnt-require-100-compliance/
5) Growing Louisville Startup Lands Millions In VC Funding
GoodMaps recently closed on $3.5 million in fresh capital. The seed round was led by Louisville-based Strike Ventures, with participation from Future Labs Capital, Keyhorse Capital (KSTC), Brook Smith and several other local and regional angel investors. The American Printing House for the Blind also invested in the new round. Formerly known as Access Explorer, GoodMaps was founded by APH in 2019:
https://www.bizjournals.com/louisville/inno/stories/fundings/2022/08/18/goodmaps-closes-on-3-5m-seed-round.html
6) The Unintended Consequences of OTC Hearing Aids
Over-the-counter hearing aids will be available by October 2022. They'll benefit many but could lead to stigmatization, inadequate testing, and even hearing loss:
https://www.wired.com/story/fda-over-the-counter-hearing-aids-disability/
7) Blind Scientists Adapted A Centuries-Old Art To Make Data That Can Be Touched And Seen
Tools called lithophanes are physical images adorned with shallow engravings:
https://www.popsci.com/science/lithophane-blind-scientist-data/
8) This Technology Makes Data Accessible To Blind And Visually Impaired People
NPR's Mary Louise Kelly talks with Mona Minkara, a professor of bioengineering at Northeastern University who is also blind, about a new way to present science data to blind and sighted people alike:
https://www.npr.org/2022/08/19/1118521010/this-technology-makes-data-accessible-to-blind-and-visually-impaired-people
9) Congress Ordered Agencies To Use Tech That Works For People With Disabilities 24 Years Ago. Many Still Haven't.
The Senate Aging Committee is conducting oversight to get agencies to comply with the rules:
https://www.politico.com/news/2022/08/21/congress-people-with-disabilities-00052955
10) War Makes Life Even Harder For Ukraine's Visually Impaired
Viktor Solovyanenko has gone out as little as possible since Russia invaded Ukraine because he fears stepping on unexploded munitions or sharp objects. He is part of a small community of visually impaired people in the eastern city of Kharkiv who can hear the war but cannot see the damage wrought by nearly six months of Russian bombardment:
https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/war-makes-life-even-harder-ukraines-visually-impaired-2022-08-17/
11) With A Little Help, Blind Tourist Fulfills His Sense Of Adventure
Using one hand to grip the top of his white cane and the other to hold the arm of a conductor, Ian Perrault exited the train that had just arrived in Portland from Boston and walked slowly toward the city's bus and train station:
https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/little-help-blind-tourist-fulfills-080300686.html
12) 3D Printing Allows Blind Chemists To Visualize Scientific Data
A group of US-based chemists have transformed scientific charts and images into tactile materials that are accessible to blind and visually impaired researchers. This could help to reduce barriers faced by people with low vision who wish to study and work in science:
https://www.chemistryworld.com/news/3d-printing-allows-blind-chemists-to-visualise-scientific-data/4016113.article
13) ADA Website Compliance: A Better Experience for Law Firms and Clients
Information technology leader and civil rights lawyers weigh in on the vital need for website accessibility in the digital age, especially for law firms and companies like Best Lawyers:
https://www.bestlawyers.com/article/law-firms-strive-for-ada-website-compliance/4639
14) How One Nonprofit Helps Blind Workers Find Jobs
People who are blind play an integral role in the federal government's operations. Since 2010, National Industries for the Blind (NIB), a nonprofit in Alexandria, Va., has paired employees who have visual impairments with contract management support (CMS) services jobs in support of the federal government:
https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/hr-topics/behavioral-competencies/global-and-cultural-effectiveness/pages/how-one-nonprofit-helps-blind-workers-find-jobs.aspx
15) Native America Calling: Merging Native Languages With Braille
The resurgence of language revitalization helps keep cultural connections and exercise sovereignty. Those connections are diminished somewhat for those who are visually impaired and can't read the written page. But there are those who are taking on the work of merging Native languages with braille, extending the full power of their culture to more of their citizens:
https://www.indianz.com/News/2022/08/22/native-america-calling-merging-native-languages-with-braille/
16) How This Partially Sighted B.C. Gamer Learned To Play Super Mario
Jalen Berg memorizes patterns of the game using his sense of hearing:
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/video-game-mario-accessible-bc-1.6554371
➜ Surveys
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related survey for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-survey or locate "Survey Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Surveys: From APH
Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
2) Survey: Recruiting Participants For An In-Person Study About Augmenting Landmark Navigation Using Augmented Reality For Individuals With Low Vision
Closes: August 31st 2022 The University of Wisconsin-Madison is recruiting participants for an in-person study on the campus. The purpose of this study is to design a landmark-based navigation system using augmented reality (AR) for people with low vision to help them navigate effectively indoor and outdoor. The only requirements for this study are to be 18 years or older, have low vision, and be able to travel to the UW-Madison campus. The study will take roughly two hours to complete with compensation of 20$/hr and reimbursing up to 30$ of travel expenses. Some tasks you will encounter if you participate in the study are navigating several indoor routes around campus, completing a brainstorming session using a HoloLens 2 device, and a short interview about your visual condition and AR Experience. If you have any questions, contact information for the research is present on the survey form.
https://forms.gle/nekS8N8xSCGwPWw1A
3) Survey: Participate In An Upcoming Google Research Study
Closes: August 31st 2022 The Fitbit team is inviting people with only one functional biological arm for a new study (US residents only). If you're interested, learn more and sign up at:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe8Rqt-0ArQywc1IYdSsHsTMqglVFpgqAghlOhB8iFa-sDGrg/viewform
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Podcast Episode for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-podcast-episode or locate "Podcast Episode Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Tips for Fun and Accessible Travel | Hadley Presents A Conversation With The Experts
August 19th 2022 | Certified accessible travel advocate Melvin Reynolds joins the podcast to share tips for getting the most out of traveling, no matter your level of vision. Melvin gives advice on what to research ahead of a trip, considerations for traveling with a guide dog, and how a certified accessible travel advocate can help:
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/tips-fun-and-accessible-travel
2) Mosen at Large Episode 193: What Does Literacy Mean In A Blindness Context, Travel Tips, And A Thorough Look At The Zoom F3 Digital Field Recorder
3) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 89: Android 13 Stable Version Lands for Qualifying Pixel Phones
August 20th 2022 | In this episode, we focus on the August 15 stable Android 13 landing for qualifying Pixel phones. We also talked about things you ought to know after getting the update. You can choose to opt out of the Beta before September, that, meaning you will not be part of the "QPR"-Quarterly Platform Releases betas that Google pushes out for those in the program. So, in order not to be part of that, then after you update to the stable release, then navigate to this page and opt out of the beta. We also discussed the fact that if you have a Tensor-powered phone, e.g., Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro and the just released Pixel 6A, according to this Google Developer page, that you wouldn't be able to unroll back to Android 12 if you wanted to do so. The page does not tell us why, but according to this article from Android Police, the reason behind this is owed to an exploit in the boot loader of the Tensor-powered phones running Android12; thus, resulting in the anti-rollback as doing so, would reintroduce that exploit. App of the Week: For the "App of the Week," we demonstrate "Focus Reader," an excellent RSS Reader. Talkback Highlights: We bring to you installment 49 from the theme of "Highlights from Talkback" and this time, it is the sixth entry under the 4-finger-gesture heading:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqo6MUtxBEwH6y6NloCeZ4r7
4) Blind Abilities Episode 881: Tech Abilities: Sonic Graphs, Mac App Store, Kim Kardashian Beats, NASA's Ipad Journey And Are You A Buncher, Folder Or Wrapper? And, More Tech Tidbits For You All!
August 22nd 2022 | In this Tech Abilities episode Serina, Callie and Jeff welcome Seyoon Choi to the show. He is working on his major and undergrad simultaneously While playing Blind Hockey and working at the local fruit store. From Kardashian Beats Fit Pros, to NVDA at Texas State, Demos on the Audio Graphs in the iPhone and the Mac App Store navigation. That's just for beginners! We also dive into Fully Autonomous Vehicles, an autonomous Vehicle Assistant Being developed, Spotify acquires Book Stream company and a big summer opportunity to get on-board. Did you know that NASA is sending up an iPad to test Alexa? Sorry Seri, I'm working on that. Plus much more news and tidbits from around the 3rd rock from the sun, and all from our Blindness perspectives. Listen here:
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7572
5) Eyes on Success Episode 2234: Clusiv e-Learning Platform
August 24th 2022 | Clusiv is the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind people. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Luke Simianer, CEO and co-founder of Clusiv, about the motivation for starting Clusiv, how it works, and how they are partnering with regional vocational services around the country to train blind people for future employment:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202234.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Webinar, Training Course or Event for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-event or locate "Webinar / Training Course Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) 2022 TTJ Virtual Tech Summit
August 27th 2022 | 3PM PT, 4PM MT, 5PM CT, 6PM ET, 10PM GMT | Don't miss the 2022 TTJ Virtual Tech Summit, to be held on Saturday, August 27, 2022 at 6PM Eastern Time. The theme for the event is, "Next Level - New Heights". Don't miss this exciting opportunity to be part of our audience, as the trainers go head-to-head in "Stump the Instructor" and other games, as well as sharing fond memories of past training seasons. Most importantly, find out what's new for the 2022-23 TTJ training season. Learn what courses will be offered and how you can take part in everything that's coming up this year. Plus, ask your questions, interact with the team, and even have a chance to win awesome prizes. Once again, this exciting event will take place on Saturday, August 27 at 6PM Eastern. Use the link and join info below to join the Tech Summit via Zoom. TTJ is inviting you to a very special scheduled Zoom meeting. Topic: 2022 TTJ Tech Summit, "Next Level - New Hights". Time: Aug 27, 2022 06:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada). | Meeting ID: 812 3134 3030 | Passcode: 327030 | One tap mobile: +13017158592,,81231343030#,,,,*327030# US (Washington DC) | +13092053325,,81231343030#,,,,*327030# US | Meeting ID: 812 3134 3030 | Passcode: 327030 | Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kd6TUIZLMO | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81231343030?pwd=NzZKME1tVCtzTk1Yd3JtRVdYN0NwUT09
2) Essay Writer: a Visual Writing Tool | Call Scotland
August 31st 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Essay Writer is a visual writing tool for students, which is designed to support the development of organizing, writing, and referencing skills. Combining a visual mind map and linear text provokes meaningful learning. The software can help overcome barriers such as weak working memory, slow processing speeds and overwhelming feelings. In this webinar, Helen-Louise Rowe will demonstrate how the application of assistive technology can not only make learning and writing easier but also develop your own skills. Essay Writer utilizes writing tools such as, phrase banks, paragraph highlighting and automatic referencing; as well as offering easy ways to completely restructure essays without the worry of losing track and so much more:
https://www.callscotland.org.uk/professional-learning/webinars/WEB218/
3) ZoomText, JAWS, & Fusion: Products and Licenses | Access Ingenuity
August 31st 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | ZoomText Magnifier with and without speech, JAWS screen reader, and Fusion. What are they, and what are the differences? What are the distinctions among the different license options? In addition, what is a Software Maintenance Agreement? These are Frequently Asked Questions about ZoomText, JAWS, and Fusion. Join Ian Ramos and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity to learn about these products and license options. Learning Outcomes: Explain the difference between ZoomText Magnifier with and without speech, JAWS screen reader, and Fusion. Discuss the advantages of each program and the individuals who would benefit from them. Explore the different license options and understand what a Software Maintenance Agreement is. Meeting ID: 858 5495 8739 | Passcode: 930963 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,85854958739#,,,,*930963# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85854958739?pwd=RTR3ck9TZldMVFp6amM1ckVzSUJ6dz09#success
4) StellarTrek Launch Webinar Introducing Our New Digital Orientation And Mobility Assistant, The Stellartrek | Humanware
September 1st 2022 | 6AM PT, 7AM MT, 8AM CT, 9AM ET, 1PM GMT | How about a digital orientation assistant designed to help you travel independently and accomplish your daily tasks? Guiding you through the final 40 feet. Like a friend always ready to lend a hand, the StellarTrek's built-in optical sensor and artificial intelligence locate and recognize street addresses, doors and entrances, and provide audio and voice guidance to the last 40 feet of your destination. Recognizing and reading text aloud. It recognizes and reads aloud texts such as street or entrance signs, ingredient lists, receipts or nutritional values on food labels. Its cameras offer text recognition capability in 14 languages. Improving accessibility, mobility, and autonomy. With all-day battery life, there's no fear of your smartphone running out of steam for navigation tasks. Its advanced features and a touchscreen menu, StellarTrek now makes a world of possibilities available, independently and safely. Join us to discover the brand new StellarTrek, our new orientation and mobility device! We will be holding 2 sessions on September 1, 2022. On the agenda: 1. Out of the box experience. 2. Physical description of the device. 3. Features (OCR, address recognition, dictation). 4. Differences between the VR Trek and the StellarTrek. 5. Maps. 6. Prices. Register here for the September 1st 2022, 9:00 AM (EDT) session:
https://humanware.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN__qGQc7gkR_GYYmA-xVsDXg
5) StellarTrek Launch Webinar Introducing Our New Digital Orientation And Mobility Assistant, The Stellartrek | Humanware
September 1st 2022 | 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12PM GMT on 9/2 | How about a digital orientation assistant designed to help you travel independently and accomplish your daily tasks? Guiding you through the final 40 feet. Like a friend always ready to lend a hand, the StellarTrek's built-in optical sensor and artificial intelligence locate and recognize street addresses, doors and entrances, and provide audio and voice guidance to the last 40 feet of your destination. Recognizing and reading text aloud. It recognizes and reads aloud texts such as street or entrance signs, ingredient lists, receipts or nutritional values on food labels. Its cameras offer text recognition capability in 14 languages. Improving accessibility, mobility, and autonomy. With all-day battery life, there's no fear of your smartphone running out of steam for navigation tasks. Its advanced features and a touchscreen menu, StellarTrek now makes a world of possibilities available, independently and safely. Join us to discover the brand new StellarTrek, our new orientation and mobility device! We will be holding 2 sessions on September 1, 2022. On the agenda: 1. Out of the box experience. 2. Physical description of the device. 3. Features (OCR, address recognition, dictation). 4. Differences between the VR Trek and the StellarTrek. 5. Maps. 6. Prices. Register here for the September 1st 2022, 8:00 PM (EDT) session:
https://humanware.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_yYLEVSugSUmGmbihUcjzrQ
6) Pixel Phone | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
September 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Has Android bridged the gap with Apple with this remarkable new device? All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
7) Requirements Beyond WCAG: An Accessibility Decision Tree | TPGi
September 13th 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Presenter: Mitchell Evan, Senior Accessibility Engineer. WCAG is essential, but it's not the only accessibility standard. User needs go beyond WCAG for particular kinds of digital products, and regulations and standards such as Section 508 and EN 301 549 help address these needs. In this webinar, we'll show how these other standards apply to documents, native apps, hardware devices, and particular product functions of websites and ICT (information and communication technologies):
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-september-13-at-11am-et-requirements-beyond-wcag-an-accessibility-decision-tree/
8) Digital Accessibility - Ask Me Anything (AMA) | TPGi
September 21st 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenters: Mark Miller, Director of Sales and Host of the Real People, Real Stories Podcast. Join TPGi for a live AMA event with Mark Miller. Mark has over 10 years of digital accessibility knowledge and has supported accessibility teams at all points in their journey. No matter where you are on your accessibility journey, there is always something new to learn. Get answers to your top accessibility questions:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-september-21-at-12pm-et-digital-accessibility-ask-me-anything-ama/
9) Blindness & Diabetes Webinar: Dexcom vs Freestyle Libre | Accessible Pharmacy Services For The Blind
September 23rd 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Blindness and Diabetes Webinar: Dexcom vs Freestyle Libre. Please join Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind and University of Pennsylvania's Diabetes Education Center as we compare Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) devices available to our blind, deafblind, and low vision patients living with diabetes. We will be discussing differences between Dexcom and Freestyle Libre as well as their accessibility features. This webinar will have captioning and a live ASL interpreter. If you are unable to attend, please register to receive the webinar audio and video via email:
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/blindness-diabetes-webinar-dexcom-vs-freestyle-libre/
10) iOS 16 Review And Editing Voice Memos | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
October 1st 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Every year we look for accessibility improvements in our i-devices. See what is new in this latest version of the Apple operating system. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
11) WordPress Accessibility Day
November 2nd 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | WordPress Accessibility Day is a free, 24-hour online event scheduled to start at 15:00 UTC (11:00 US Eastern, 8:00 US Pacific) on Wednesday, November 2nd. The conference will be held virtually so you can present from anywhere worldwide. Here are some other important things to know about speaking at WordPress Accessibility Day: We will provide an accessible speaking experience — the presentation platform will be screen reader-friendly, and we will have captions and sign language interpretation available for speakers as needed. You don't have to have speaking experience! We would love to have first-time speakers present and can support you in presenting as needed. You don't have to be an "expert" or have any special certifications. Anyone with something to share related to accessibility on the web or in WordPress is invited to apply. You can share your journey learning about accessibility or your experience as a person with a disability even if you don't think you've reached the end of that journey yet. Your topic doesn't have to be explicitly WordPress related. While we want some talks specific to WordPress and want to encourage developer-level presentations, not all talks need to be specific to WordPress. General website accessibility talks with broad applications for websites of all types and people of all levels of technical abilities are welcome. If you have an idea for a talk to share your knowledge or experiences about the intersection of WordPress and accessibility, we'd love to hear it!
https://wpaccessibility.day/weekend-plans-apply-to-speak-at-wp-accessibility-day/
12) AT Gifts for the Holidays | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Our annual look at gadgets and gizmos that will make your holiday season a successful one. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
13) ACB's 2022 Audio Description Awards Gala
November 29 2022 | The American Council of the Blind (ACB) proudly announces the second annual Audio Description Awards Gala on November 29, 2022. The Gala will once again celebrate outstanding achievements in audio description in media and expand awareness of its benefits. In recent years there has been enormous success in expanding audio description for audiences who are blind, low vision, or have other sensory disabilities that create barriers to full inclusion in visual media. "The Audio Description Awards Gala will celebrate the best of the best within the art and science of inclusive audio-described media," said Eric Bridges, ACB's Executive Director. "Together we will work to expand awareness of the transformative value that audio description brings to the lives of people with disabilities:"
https://acb.org/save-the-date-2022-AD-Awards
14) Blind Health Expo | The Accessible Pharmacy
December 2nd 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | The Accessible Pharmacy Blind Health Expo will be the largest virtual expo of healthcare information, products, services, and medication for individuals who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision. Join thousands of other attendees and register now for free!
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/blind-health-expo/
15) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
December 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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
✍ List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. Fill out this short form to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-buy-sell-trade or learn more on the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) FOR SALE: One Index Basic D V5 Embosser
Listing Date: 8/25/2022 | Price: $4,500.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Show used only. Like new. Only used twice to show less than 50 pages total embossed. Index Basic D V5 Embosser. Includes Travel Lock. Will be shipped free matter unless arrangements for other shipping is made. $4,500 obo. | Contact: Ashley via email at: crazy4chemistry@att.net 📧️ or by phone / text at: (972) 369-6010 📱️. |
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
➜ VIP-3000 Talking Thermostat Now $199.99 from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Control the climate of your home independently! The VIP 3000 is a universal heating — cooling talking thermostat This accessible digital thermostat is specifically designed to offer audio playback of indoor temperature, temperature settings and programming instructions so blind and visually impaired users can independently & precisely manage their indoor comfort. Don't over pay. Read more at:
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 every day 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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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 Next Generation in Accessibility
Need to quickly access a distant computer with minimal fuss? Need to quickly convert image documents into readable text? Today's students and working professionals demand more of their technology. Employers expect more of their workforce. Pneuma Solutions is bridging the gap using the best in machine learning to connect you to your environment when you need it, how you need it. Give us a try, and experience accessibility on a whole new level:
https://pneumasolutions.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
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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Combine Learning And Gaming For A Fun Braille Adventure With Polly!
APH and Thinkerbell Labs are excited to introduce Polly, complete with customizable UEB lessons, songs, games, and stories! Join our waiting list to know when Polly is available:
https://www.aph.org/polly-wait-list/
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
➜ September Is The Month For Secrets
September is the month for secrets, but we're not good at keeping them, and the customers get the benefit: We have signed off on the production of the 60 inch titanium telescopic non-collapsing cane; it should be ready for shipment within the month and can be ordered now for $70; We are excited to introduce our new combination phone and Victor Stream or Trek on-the-go case. Keep both your phone and player protected in this heavy duty cowhide case; and when you want to use your player, just flip it to the outside of the case where the included commercial velcro attachment will hold it securely in place with all controls easily within reach. Only $35; we have a similar case available for the Orbit Writer and your phone. Call Barry for either of these new products at (617) 969-7500 📱️ to order, or by email at barry.scheur@gmail.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, affordable, 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
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: That Real Blind Tech Show
➜ That Real Blind Tech Show Episode 96: We Got More Resolutions, ACB Style!
It's a fully packed That Real Blind Tech show lair. Join us as we recap this year's ACB Resolutions. We chime in with all of our opinions about this year's resolutions, and as usual some hilarity ensues. You will not want to miss both AirPods issues that take place on this episode. We are adding do not listen to That Real Blind Tech show on the bus as we are not responsible for the stares you will receive when laughing or cackling like a lunatic!
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-96-we-got-more-resolutions-acb-style
Sponsor Since: August 11th 2022
Website: https://blindtechshow.com/ 🌐
Email: ThatRealBlindTechShow@gmail.com 📧️
Social: Facebook Page | Facebook Group | Twitter
Listen: Apple Podcasts | Audible | Google Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube
Hosts: Brian Fischler | Ed Plumacher | Allison Meloy | Jenine Stanley
Goals: We want to educate you on the latest tech for the blindness community. You'll learn what is worth keeping and what you need to return. Our goals are: To inform, inspire and educate our audience. Feature guests and products that bring you value. Continuously improve and deliver the best content.
About: A podcast discussing the good & bad of assistive technology for the low vision & totally blind. No longer focused on just Apple VoiceOver technology. That Real Blind Tech show covers all the fantastic talking tech and gadgets out there for the low vision and blindness community. Common topics include Apple's VoiceOver, JAWS, Microsoft Narrator, NVDA, Amazon Alexa and VoiceView, Google Assistant and Android. Basically, if a device can talk to you, we are going to be talking about it. That Real Blind Tech Show will not only educate you, but it will also make you laugh. Listeners are encouraged to not use treadmills or drink hot coffee while listening to our show, or accidents can and have occurred. Dishes have been broken while listening to That Real Blind Tech Show, and while we are responsible for the laughs, we are in no way responsible for the injuries or bills that pile up. Remember to keep it Real and also don't believe anything you hear on That Real Blind Tech Show.
Home | Episodes | Blog | Contact | Subscribe
Sponsor: Aira
Sponsor Since: August 4th 2022
Website: https://aira.io/ 🌐
Download the App: Apple App Store | Google Play Store
Plans and Pricing: https://aira.io/pricing/
Phone: NA: +1.800.835.1934 📱️ | AU: +1.800.765.096 📱️ | UK: +0.800.046.5668 📱️ | NZ: +1.800.425.451 📱️
Text Message: NA: +1.858.242.4457 📲 | AU: +61.488.839.767 📲 | UK: +44.149.320.2474 📲
Email: support@aira.io 📧️
Social: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
About: Aira's mission is to remove barriers and make the world more accessible with visual interpreting.
We provide a live, human-to-human professional assistance service, an accommodation or productivity tool, that enhances independence by delivering on-demand, skilled and reliable visual interpreting for just about any task. Using the powerful combination of a camera and the Aira app on someone's device of 'choice', a professionally-trained agent will assist by visually interpreting what is in the camera's view or on screen, from describing to reading, from explaining to navigating - just about anything, safely and securely. Aira supports a growing range of devices including smart and tactile button phones, desktop computers and soon, wearables.
Whether you are involved in the work of business, the work of school or the work of life, Aira enhances everyday efficiency, engagement, and independence. Used by employees and customers of hundreds of organizations including airports, banks, the largest software companies, financial firms, retailers and universities, we invite you to join the community, access the Aira app today and try it for free.
https://aira.io/download-and-try-it/
Step One: Subscribe and Download. Pick the plan that lets you explore on your terms and on your time, sign up in a few minutes, and download the Aira app to your smartphone. Plans shown are for the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Add or cancel at any time.
Step Two: Connect with an Aira Agent. On the first call, connect with one of our certified, specially-trained Agents and learn how everything works.
Step Three: Real-time Assistance. At the touch of a button, Aira delivers instant access to visual information, when and where you want it.
Sponsor: Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
➜ Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore: Touch Tomorrow in Today's Products
Serving blind people since 1999, we're a family-owned, forward-thinking company offering both tried-and-true and exciting new products for blind and low vision consumers. We design and carry self-voicing educational software, Braille supplies, talking gadgets, adapted household items, tactile card and board games, audible toys and gift ideas. Passionate about innovation, we've also created dozens of products from scratch when a suitable solution did not exist. Shop online at http://www.braillebookstore.com/ and enjoy fast, free shipping.
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: http://www.braillebookstore.com/ 🌐
Phone (Toll Free): (800) 987-1231 📱️
Fax (Toll Free): (800) 985-1231 ░
Email: Sales@BrailleBookstore.com 📧️
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time.
About: Welcome to Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore. We have been supplying products to blind people and their families since 1999. We offer thousands of Braille books, toys, games, kitchen aids, and talking products. We have unbeatable prices, fast, free shipping, and great customer service! We have tons of Braille books and cool products to choose from; so grab a cup of coffee, relax, and we'll give you a quick tour:
Products:
➜ Timekeeping
➜ Housewares
➜ On The Go
➜ Low Vision Products
➜ Toys and Games
➜ Gift Shop
➜ Braille Workshop
➜ Braille Bookstore
➜ Greeting Cards
➜ Copy Center
➜ Computer Lab
➜ Popular Products
➜ New Products
If you need some fresh ideas or have questions, you can also check out our Shopping Guides.
Sponsor: Fable
➜ Free and Accessible Training for the Tech Sector
Fable Pathways helps you gain the skills that you need to work in the tech sector with a free, accessible, and on-demand program. Learn from industry leaders with disabilities to take your career to the next level, like Kelly Ford, Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, who introduces GitHub and VS Code using a screen reader. Spend less time and energy trying to access courses with your assistive technology and focus on the content that matters to you, with Fable Pathways' accessible platform. Sign up today!
https://www.fablepathways.com/
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: https://fablepathways.com/ 🌐
Email: community@makeitfable.com 📧️
Phone: (888) 212-3532 📱️ Extension 810
About: Just like curb cuts help everyone get on and off sidewalks, designing digital products with accessibility in mind helps make the internet more accessible for everyone. Fable is an accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities. Fable connects people with disabilities to accessibility managers, user researchers, designers, and developers to build incredible and accessible user experiences.
Opportunities:
➜ Fable Pathways: Fable Pathways is a free skill development program for people with disabilities interested in working in the tech sector. Sign up to take your career to the next level. Courses include "Getting started in web development" taught by Kelly Ford, a screen reader user, and Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, and "Becoming a manager" taught by Fable's Head of Accessibility Innovation, Kate Kalcevich. Instructors are subject matter experts in their fields and have lived experience with disability. Pathways courses are free, self-paced and assistive-technology-friendly. Sign up now at https://fablepathways.com/.
➜ Fable's Community of Accessibility Testers: Work from home to contribute to real changes in digital accessibility and make the internet a more accessible place for everyone. Ever leave a website because it was too hard to navigate? Because it was missing button labels? Because it didn't respond to voice commands? Us too. Our community of testers who use assistive technologies work from home and contribute to real changes in digital accessibility with recognizable brands. Earn money to share your feedback on websites and apps of your favorite brands and work with companies that care. No experience required and no resume required. Fable is looking for assistive technology users in the USA and Canada to work the hours that they want, from the comfort of their own homes. Learn more at https://fablepathways.com/community/.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ 8 Easy Ways to Make Your Social Posts Accessible
Visit the Dolphin Blog to read one of our recent blog articles, 8 Easy Ways to Make Your Social Posts Accessible. While you're there, have a look at some of our other Blogs to read articles related to accessibility at home, work and in education:
https://blog.yourdolphin.com/blog/8-easy-ways-to-make-socials-accessible
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Sponsor: Clusiv
➜ Looking For Blind Job-Seekers Wanting To Advance Their Salaries, Careers And Digital Accessibility For The Blind
Are you interested in learning new tech skills and working remotely while earning a competitive salary? At Clusiv.io we have created the world's first digitally accessible e-Learning platform built by the blind, and built for the blind. Visit the link provided and request Clusiv through your Vocational Rehab counselor for lifetime access to our e-Learning platform with courses such as Business Applications, JAWS, and more:
https://clusiv.io/
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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.
Your Name Here
0 of 18 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are currently 0 of 18 packages available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, August 18, 2022 - Volume 872
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.
Subscribers: REPLACE opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email. REPLACE Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Helping Others with Computer Issues Just Got Ridiculously More Easy!
When we talk about remote computer access, we used to think of field technical support providers. These professionals are still likely the ones to get most excited about being able to navigate other computers, but with the increasing complexity of computer systems, it's not uncommon for our friends and family to tap us when their computers are not doing what they're supposed to. And now, thanks to this fresh overhaul of Remote Incident Manager, you too can expertly log into a remote computer with a fraction of the hassle and with a greater edge over competing products. So, whether you are the IT POC for your home, part of a robust IT workforce serving a corporate client, or want to start your own tech consulting business, consider beta testing our product! We think you'll find it hard to go back after the RIM experience.
https://getrim.app/
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Tidbit for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) 5 Empowering Microsoft Narrator Alternatives for Visually Impaired Windows Users (7.2% of all clicks.)
If Narrator isn't making the cut for you, try an alternative accessibility tool for Windows instead:
https://www.makeuseof.com/windows-narrator-alternatives/
B.) How to Enable Reader Mode in Google Chrome and Firefox (5.7% of all clicks.)
Chrome and Firefox both come with a reader mode to help declutter pages. Here's how to use the feature in both browsers:
https://www.makeuseof.com/enable-reader-mode-chrome-firefox/
C.) Google Search Tools Students Often Overlook (5.3% of all clicks.)
The default action for students to take when given a research task is to turn to Google. Unfortunately, many students won't venture much beyond the first couple of pages of Google.com results pages before declaring, "I can't find anything about this." But as Dan Russell reminds us in The Joy of Search, good search often requires the use of multiple tools. To that end, Google offers search tools beyond just Google.com. Unfortunately, students won't use those tools unless they know that those tools exist and how to use them. Here are some of the Google search tools that students often overlook:
https://www.freetech4teachers.com/2022/08/google-search-tools-students-often.html
D.) JAWS Power Tip: JAWS Settings for Specific Web Pages (5.1% of all clicks.)
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/109.html
E.) Here's Your Summer Reading List of Free eBooks (4.5% of all clicks.)
For centuries, libraries have offered access to the printed wisdom (and folly) of humanity, but only to "authorized personnel" in the beginning. Most people had to travel and pay for books, and that was hard on budgets. But now the Internet makes available more good books, old and new, than one person can read in a lifetime. Ready to curl up in your favorite chair (or at the beach) with a good page turner? Here are some places where you can find quality reads free of charge:
https://askbobrankin.com/heres_your_summer_reading_list_free_ebooks.html
2) No Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Packages Currently Available
If you would like to secure a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Package in the future we encourage you to add your company or organization name to our waiting list today by sending an email to our Publisher. There are currently two future sponsors on our waiting list:
publisher@toptechtidbits.com
3) Top Tech Tidbits Click-To-Vote Quick Poll #871 | Sponsored By Dolphin Computer Access | Results | 127 Votes
Question: As someone who uses a screen reader or screen magnifier (or both) at work, what was the main driver to determine which assistive technology product(s) you use in the workplace?
A.) I determined what tech I would use based on what I was already using and comfortable with.
(57 Votes / 45% of all clicks.)
B.) My organization's IT / Technical Team researched magnification and/or screen readers that would best fit within the organization's technical infrastructure and network.
(36 Votes / 28% of all clicks.)
C.) The person responsible for purchasing my accommodation decided based on cost.
(34 Votes / 27% of all clicks.)
Poll Results Link: https://bit.ly/ttt-poll871-results
4) Dolphin SuperNova Power Tip: Setting SuperNova To Start With The Same Setup Every Time
Courtesy of Dolphin Computer Access:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/110.html
5) JAWS Power Tip: How To Ignore Inline Frames on Web Pages
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/66.html
6) AccessWorld June 2022
Updates this month include: Editor's Notes: AccessWorld Premium Content and Accessible At-Home COVID-19 Tests | A Recap of Apple's 2022 WWDC (Worldwide Developers Conference) | Employment Matters: Nefertiti Matos Olivares, Audio Description Narrator And Writer | Access Matters Creating "Inclusion at work" through an interactive Ideathon. | Product Reviews and Guides | An Introduction to Accessible Audio Editing with Reaper | Canute 360: The World's First Multi-line Braille Display:
https://www.afb.org/aw/23/6
7) NV Access In Process August 2022
We're progressing towards NVDA 2022.3, we've got important news for add-on authors and a bunch more to cover this week, so let's get into it:
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-11th-august-2022/
8) Markdown Language Server
Microsoft is releasing Markdown Language Server that makes Visual Studio Code's Markdown support available to other editors. Markdown is popular to users who find it difficult to access more complex features in word processors for formatting, making it popular with people who are blind. This release should bring markdown to more text editors:
https://github.com/microsoft/vscode/tree/main/extensions/markdown-language-features/server
9) Special Olympics and Xbox Level Up for Another Gaming for Inclusion Esports Event
Gaming for Inclusion is a virtual, multi-day esports tournament taking place on September 10th and September 17th 2022:
https://news.xbox.com/en-us/2022/08/17/special-olympics-and-xbox-another-gaming-for-inclusion-esports-event/
10) Google Workspace Is Getting Some Welcome Accessibility Upgrades
You will now be able to set accessibility preferences in each of the Google workspace apps:
https://www.techradar.com/news/google-workspace-is-getting-some-welcome-accessibility-upgrades
11) Google Workspace: More Control Over Accessibility Preferences in Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Drawings
Over the years, we've launched features to support our ongoing accessibility efforts to ensure our products work well for everyone. For users of screen readers, braille devices, screen magnifiers, and more, we're improving the ability to adjust your accessibility preferences for Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Drawings separately:
https://workspaceupdates.googleblog.com/2022/08/docs-sheets-slides-drawings-accessibility-preferences.html?m=1
12) Making Mathematics Accessible
In a project awarded a grant by Microsoft's AI for Accessibility program, NWEA, a research-based, not-for-profit organization that supports students and educators worldwide, aims to create an improved accessible math assessment for middle school students with visual disabilities. A prototype is available on?NWEA prototypes And you can read more about the project on Microsoft's blog post at:
https://blogs.microsoft.com/accessibility/making-mathematics-accessible/
13) Everything Samsung Announced at Galaxy Unpacked 2022 | Wired
Say hello to two new foldable phones, new smartwatches, and a new pair of wireless earbuds:
https://www.wired.com/story/samsung-galaxy-unpacked-2022-z-flip-4-fold-4-watch5-buds2-pro/
14) A Bioengineered Cornea Can Restore Sight To Blind People
The implant, made from pig skin protein, could provide visually impaired people with more affordable transplants. Sources below from two authorities on the subject:
MIT Technology Review: https://www.technologyreview.com/2022/08/11/1057576/bioengineered-cornea-restored-sight/
Wired Magazine: https://www.wired.com/story/a-bioengineered-cornea-shows-it-can-improve-peoples-sight/
15) New Course From Hartgen Consultancy | Opening Windows; Learning to Use the Tools Built Into the Windows Operating System
Over the years at Hartgen Consultancy, we have produced training courses on a variety of different subjects. But we have never explored some of the useful tools within the operating system which drives your computer: Microsoft Windows:
https://www.hartgen.org/openingwindows
16) The 13 Top New Features in Android 13 — And How to Install It
The latest version of Google's mobile operating system is now available for Pixel phones:
https://www.wired.com/story/android-13-features-and-how-to-download/
17) Best Accessibility Features In Android 13
Android continues to improve its inclusivity:
https://www.androidpolice.com/android-13-best-accessibility-features/
18) YouTube Keyboard Shortcuts That Help You Save Time On The Site
YouTube is one of the most popular video streaming sites on today's Internet. What many desktop users do not know is that it supports keyboard shortcuts that may help save time on the site or speed up certain actions:
https://www.ghacks.net/2022/08/12/youtube-keyboard-shortcuts-help-you-save-time-on-the-site/
19) Free iOS App Which Recognizes Traffic Related Objects (Crosswalk Signal, Crosswalk, and Traffic Signals) And Alerts You Through Voice Alerts
Suresh Bala writes: My high school daughter has created a free app for the Blind and Visually Impaired (BVI) community. Features: Detects traffic lights, crosswalk, announces/buzz pedestrian traffic light "Don't walk/Walk". This works even without a cell connection or WiFi. Optimized for the US, but could work in other countries. We'd love for people to test and give us feedback. Support email: WalkAssist.app@gmail.com 📧️. App can be downloaded here:
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/walkassist/id1615852366
20) The Hacking of Starlink Terminals Has Begun | Wired
It cost a researcher only $25 worth of parts to create a tool that allows custom code to run on the satellite dishes.
https://www.wired.com/story/starlink-internet-dish-hack/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Press Release or Other News item for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) How To Talk About Disability Sensitively And Avoid Ableist Tropes
Here is an NPR article on ablest language:
https://www.npr.org/2022/08/08/1115682836/how-to-talk-about-disability-sensitively-and-avoid-ableist-tropes
2) Nature For All
This website provides locations and information about braille nature trails and sensory gardens for the visually impaired and those with other physical disabilities in the United States and around the world:
http://www.naturefortheblind.com/home
3) JAWS and ZoomText Now Available for Sale through the APH Website
We are excited to announce that JAWS® Student Edition and ZoomText Student Edition are now available for sale through the APH website. Previously, these products could only be purchased by contacting Customer Service directly, and while that is still an option, we hope you'll find it more convenient to order directly from the website:
https://www.aph.org/jaws-and-zoomtext-now-available-for-sale-through-the-aph-website/
4) Nasa Added Amazing Alt Text Image Descriptions To James Webb Space Telescope Photos
There was a ton of excitement when the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) was launched into space last month. What made the excitement exponentially larger was when NASA made the first few photos received from JWST public. The pictures were gorgeous and stunning, and the world was captivated by the sheer beauty of our universe as shown by these photos. These stunning photos, which are a feast for our eyes, were accompanied by something that made sure blind people enjoyed these photos as much as sighted people did — alt text! Now, the alt text attached to these images were not just 1-2 sentences giving a vague description of the images. These were descriptive, poetic, and scientifically accurate. It is clear that the team that wrote them (STCI — Space Telescope Science Institute) put a lot of thought and care into them:
https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2022/08/nasa-added-amazing-alt-text-image-descriptions-to-james-webb-space-telescope-photos.html
5) Five Government Resources on Assistive Technology | Perkins School for the Blind
A current list of government websites with information on assistive technology and disability:
https://www.perkins.org/resource/five-government-resources-assistive-technology/
6) Where to Get Discounts With Your Student Email Address
That .edu email is your ticket to exclusive savings on laptops, streaming services, software, and more:
https://www.wired.com/story/best-student-discounts/
7) Thompson Street Capital Partners Announces Launch of Allyant — The World's First Comprehensive Accessibility Solutions Company
The newly established brand represents the combination of three globally recognized accessibility solutions companies, including T-Base Communications, CommonLook and Accessible360. Now, Allyant's sole focus as a single entity is making accessibility simple, seamless, and efficient for organizations — ensuring equitable access to information for people with disabilities:
https://www.joplinglobe.com/region/national_business/thompson-street-capital-partners-announces-launch-of-allyant-the-worlds-first-comprehensive-accessibility-solutions-company/article_25dd1984-21e0-5ea1-8e0a-56abce7aecc7.html
8) FTC, Commercial Surveillance, and Overlays
Asking users to self-identify is built into accessibility overlay interfaces. They prompt users if they are using a screen reader, have dyslexia, or match pre-defined profiles such as ADHD, vision impaired, prone to seizures, and so on. In some cases, the overlay makes a guess based on how the user interacts with the page:
https://adrianroselli.com/2022/08/ftc-commercial-surveillance-and-overlays.html
9) Patent Issued For Voice Commands For The Visually Impaired To Move A Camera Relative To A Document (USPTO 11398215): United Services Automobile Association
News editors obtained the following quote from the background information supplied by the inventors: "Currently, a user may electronically deposit a negotiable instrument, such as a check, in a financial services institution using scanning and imaging techniques. Conventionally, the user uploads an image of the negotiable instrument to the financial services institution where it is stored in a storage device. An advisory is sent to the user from the financial services institution confirming that the image was uploaded successfully. The user responds to the advisory, which in turn activates an image processing servlet at the financial services institution which processes the image to deposit the negotiable instrument into an account specified by the user:"
https://insurancenewsnet.com/oarticle/patent-issued-for-voice-commands-for-the-visually-impaired-to-move-a-camera-relative-to-a-document-uspto-11398215-united-services-automobile-association
10) Perkins School Partnership Seeks More Accessible Voting
Perkins School for the Blind has partnered with a local election technology company to make it easier for visually-impaired voters to make their voices heard:
https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2022/08/11/perkins-school-accessible-voting-disabled
11) Waymo Designed New Features To Improve AV Access For Passengers With Disabilities
Waymo is introducing a raft of new features designed to make its fleet of autonomous taxis more accessible to passengers with visual impairments and other disabilities. The new features are sure to draw attention when they start hitting the streets. They include displaying the rider's initials on the rooftop dome as a visual way to identify their assigned vehicle at a near-to-medium distance. The display shows the user's customizable "Car ID," which consists of two colored letters that can be configured via the Waymo app:
https://www.theverge.com/2022/8/9/23298488/waymo-accessible-disability-dot-design-challenge-av
12) FCC Issues Reminder to Make Televised Emergency Information Accessible to Viewers with Disabilities
On August 9, 2022, the FCC released a Public Notice to remind video programming distributors, including broadcasters, cable operators, and satellite television services that deliver video programming directly to the home, of their obligation to make televised emergency information accessible to persons who are blind, visually impaired, deaf, or hard of hearing:
https://www.fcc.gov/fcc-issues-reminder-make-televised-emergency-information-accessible-viewers-disabilities-3
13) Study Uncovers How Blind and Visually Impaired Individuals Navigate Social Challenges
A recent study highlights the range of uncomfortable situations people living with blindness or visual impairment encounter due to interpersonal communication challenges, and outlines strategies people with visual impairment use to navigate these situations:
https://news.ncsu.edu/2022/08/blind-visually-impaired-challenges/
14) Nobody Is Playing Netflix's Games
New findings show 99 percent of subscribers may not even know the streaming giant's video games exist:
https://www.wired.com/story/netflix-mobile-games-no-one-playing/
15) How to Play Games From Your Netflix Account
The streaming giant offers free mobile games to all subscribers. Here's how to find them — and what you should play first:
https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-play-netflix-games/
16) NOAA Weather Radio "Needs Some Serious Upgrades"
The radio system that keeps us safe from extreme weather is under threat:
https://swling.com/blog/2022/08/noaa-weather-radio-needs-some-serious-upgrades/
17) World's First 'Self-Learning' Braille Device is Changing the Way Blind Kids Learn to Read, Write
Ed-tech startup Thinkerbell Labs have built the world's first 'self-learning' braille device, which aims to make it easier for children with visual impairments read, write, and type braille. Here's why their award-winning device could be a gamechanger:
https://www.thebetterindia.com/293875/worlds-first-braille-literacy-award-winning-device-annie-innovation-for-blind-children/
18) The Incredible Creations Of A Blind Carpenter Who Hits It On Instagram
John Furbiss attempted suicide at the age of 16and as a consequence, he went blind. It is a terrible introduction to introduce a person, but it is necessary to do it that way because it is a key event to understand what comes after:
https://www.ruetir.com/2022/08/14/the-incredible-creations-of-a-blind-carpenter-who-hits-it-on-instagram/
➜ Surveys
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related survey for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-survey or locate "Survey Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Surveys: From APH
Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
2) Survey: Do You Find It Helpful When People Describe Themselves During Meetings Or At Conferences?
Closes: August 19th 2022 Karen McCall has put together a short survey on whether someone should describe themselves in online meetings. Some of the arguments against this practice are that it takes up too much time, many people who are blind don't feel comfortable trying to describe themselves, and there is the issue of body confidence and body shaming among other posts and discussions. She says, "I've created a two-question anonymous survey to get feedback on whether the practice is helpful and collect any comments (good or bad) about the practice. I will be publishing the results so make sure there is no identifying information in your responses:"
https://forms.office.com/r/Qj5uCZNRTG
3) Survey: Recruiting Participants For An In-Person Study About Augmenting Landmark Navigation Using Augmented Reality For Individuals With Low Vision
Closes: August 31st 2022 The University of Wisconsin-Madison is recruiting participants for an in-person study on the campus. The purpose of this study is to design a landmark-based navigation system using augmented reality (AR) for people with low vision to help them navigate effectively indoor and outdoor. The only requirements for this study are to be 18 years or older, have low vision, and be able to travel to the UW-Madison campus. The study will take roughly two hours to complete with compensation of 20$/hr and reimbursing up to 30$ of travel expenses. Some tasks you will encounter if you participate in the study are navigating several indoor routes around campus, completing a brainstorming session using a HoloLens 2 device, and a short interview about your visual condition and AR Experience. If you have any questions, contact information for the research is present on the survey form.
https://forms.gle/nekS8N8xSCGwPWw1A
4) Survey: Participate In An Upcoming Google Research Study
Closes: August 31st 2022 The Fitbit team is inviting people with only one functional biological arm for a new study (US residents only). If you're interested, learn more and sign up at:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe8Rqt-0ArQywc1IYdSsHsTMqglVFpgqAghlOhB8iFa-sDGrg/viewform
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Podcast Episode for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-podcast-episode or locate "Podcast Episode Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Mosen at Large Episode 192: Listeners Respond To The Mark Riccobono Interview, Siri Reliability Issues, And Waymap Is New Navigation Technology
2) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 88: Samsung Unpack Week And More
August 13th 2022 | There is a giveaway in this episode. We dedicate this episode to talk about the just released Samsung Watch 5 Series, the Z Fold 4, Z Flip 4 and Buds 2. In our app of the week, we demo the Pixel Buds App, a companion of the Pixel Buds. In the TalkBack Highlights we come to Episode 48 in which we talk about part 5 of the 4-finger gesture:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqoHoUu5s4OpH190H8ah1xqN
3) That Real Blind Tech Show Episode 96: We Got More Resolutions, ACB Style!
August 14th 2022 | It's a fully packed That Real Blind Tech show lair. Join us as we recap this year's ACB Resolutions. We chime in with all of our opinions about this year's resolutions, and as usual some hilarity ensues. You will not want to miss both AirPods issues that take place on this episode. We are adding do not listen to That Real Blind Tech show on the bus as we are not responsible for the stares you will receive when laughing or cackling like a lunatic!
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-96-we-got-more-resolutions-acb-style
4) Blind Abilities Episode 878: Blind Abilities, Tech Abilities, Job Insights, iPhone 101, QuickBytes, Success Stories and a Sony Headphone with Noise Reduction, Dual Pairing and Alexa Ready
August 15th 2022 | In this brief episode from Blind Abilities, Jeff Thompson takes a look at the Sony WH- 1000XM4 Noise Canceling, Dual Pairing, Alexa ready Headphones he bought during the Amazon Prime Day sale. Right now you can get them refurbished for massive discounts as well. Jeff gives an overview of the Blind Abilities Podcast and where they are and what you can find in the Blind Abilities 880 plus episodes. This includes the Tech Abilities and Job Insights shows, the iPhone101 / QuickBytes Series, Success Stories, STEM, College and Careers and much more available from the Blind Abilities library of episodes. You can search and check out the category listings on the web at BlindAbilities.com. Subscribe to the Blind Abilities podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. That's 2 words, Blind Abilities. We would love to hear from you! Send us an email at: info@blindabilities.com 📧️ or give us a call and leave us some feedback at (612) 367-6093 📱️. Listen here:
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7540
5) Eyes on Success Episode 2233: Tribute to Eric Damery
August 17th 2022 | Eric Damery recently announced his retirement as VP of Software Product Management at Vispero / Freedom Scientific. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with him about his long career in the field of assistive technology and how the marketing and distribution of products for the visually impaired has changed over the years:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202233.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Webinar, Training Course or Event for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-event or locate "Webinar / Training Course Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) How To Access Digital Textbooks with JAWS | Back to School with Freedom Scientific
August 18th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Are you looking for ways to navigate and read textbooks? Join us on Thursday, August 18 at noon Eastern time for a live webinar, "Back to School with Freedom Scientific, Access Digital Textbooks with JAWS." Objectives: In this session, you'll learn how to: Open DAISY books using FSReader. Search for and download books on Bookshare. Open Kindle books and use advanced features. Freedom Scientific Presenters: Elizabeth Whitaker, Cathy Johnson, and Rachel Buchanan. ACVREP Credits: ACVREP credits will be available for those who attend the live webinar. Help Us Spread the Word: Please feel free to share this invitation with someone you think might benefit from attending. Register:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_9EHd1wnLSLmcdrNbTTvKuA
2) Online Workshop: Learn About Leasey: Introduction to Leasey and Using Leasey Select to Easily Select, Copy and Cut Text | David Goldfield
August 19th 2022 | 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12AM GMT on 8/20 | If you are a user of either JAWS or Fusion I would suggest that Leasey from Hartgen Consultancy is a program that you might want to consider using. It adds over sixty additional features and functions to JAWS. Users who are very new to using a computer or who may have cognitive challenges are sure to appreciate Leasey Basic which includes a consistent menu interface for accessing commonly used programs and tasks. Leasey Basic also includes friendly context- sensitive help. When using Leasey Basic the menus along with the context-sensitive help are spoken in a pleasant, human voice. Learn more and join the meeting at:
https://davidgoldfield.wordpress.com/2022/08/07/online-workshop-from-david-goldfield-learn-about-leasey-introduction-to-leasey-and-using-leasey-select-to-easily-select-copy-and-cut-text-friday-august-19-800-pm-eastern-time/
3) Learn About The ReVision Fitness App | Computer Science & Technology Division of the NFB of South Carolina
August 20th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Come join the Computer Science & Technology Division of the NFB of SC to Get Fit! We would like to invite everyone to join us to learn all about the Revision Fitness app that is 100% accessible using VoiceOver! Welcome to ReVision Fitness, the audio fitness program by ReVision Training LLC! We are so glad you're here! Whether you are a person looking for a place to start, an elite athlete training for your next big event, or somewhere in between, our goal is to bring all aspects of fitness to you in an accessible format. The ReVision Fitness app is an audio-based fitness program designed to be accessible for both blind and sighted users, to teach all you will need to know about fitness. The ReVision Fitness App is an audio-based fitness program universally designed to be accessible for both sighted and visually impaired and encompasses all levels of fitness and goals from beginner to expert, from no equipment to a full training facility. Each exercise lesson in the classroom, workout in the fitness studio, and schedule in the fitness plans is designed by blind personal trainer and 4 time Paralympic athlete Tyler Merren. Every classroom lesson is meticulously described using clockface directions, reference points, and step-by-step instructions to teach proper mechanics for any exercise. Each workout includes a beginner and advanced level and options for working out with music and without. The fitness plans include general guides and schedules for various fitness goals such as losing weight and toning up and provide useful action steps to help you get fit. Not sure how to set proper goals? We walk you through the process. Unsure of how to position yourself for particular exercises? We've got you covered. Looking for a fitness program that is accessible? This is the one for you. As a recipient of the prestigious Holman Prize for blind ambition from the LightHouse of San Francisco, the ReVision Fitness App is a program that will continue to grow to include anything and everything fitness-related. This app will be your one-stop-shop for accessible fitness. There are no hidden charges or in-app purchases, a simple monthly subscription of $5.99, or an annual subscription of $59.99 will give you full and unlimited access to every drop of material that we have released and will release as the program grows. Download today and enjoy a free 14 day trial on us. We are so confident you will love the program that we give you 2 weeks free to check it out. The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, and here is your first step. Download today and let's change the way we look at it! | Meeting ID: 803 254 3777 | Passcode: 124578 | One tap mobile: +19292056099,,8032543777# US (New York) | +13017158592,,8032543777# US (Germantown) | Dial by your location: +1 929 205 6099 US (New York) | Join at:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8032543777?pwd=QTVQd2RzN3l6QnNmZ0FmSnp6NG8vQT09
4) Advocacy Seminar How To Get Your Dream Job And Keep It | National Federation of the Blind of Maryland
August 20th 2022 | 10:30AM PT, 11:30AM MT, 12:30PM CT, 1:30PM ET, 5:30PM GMT | Don't miss the advocacy seminar on getting your dream job and keeping it. Place - Zoom. Send an email offline to nfbmdsm@gmail.com 📧️ to receive the zoom link. This seminar will answer such questions as: How can rehabilitation help me get a job? How can I get my employer to provide reasonable accommodations? What should I do if I feel I am being discriminated against by an employer? And more. See you Saturday.
5) Using Focus Braille Displays on VoiceOver with iPhone & iPad (ACVREP CE Approved) | Access Ingenuity
August 24th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | While it is possible to use VoiceOver on an iPhone and iPad with finger gestures and an external keyboard, are you aware that it is also possible to connect a braille display via Bluetooth and operate your iPhone and iPad? In addition, while VoiceOver has general braille commands while working with most braille displays, there are further keyboard key assignments with the Focus braille displays allowing you to navigate even more conveniently and efficiently. Join Rachel Reeves, Marisa Church, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity along with Joe McDaniel from Vispero to explore how to use a Focus braille display to increase your efficiency while using VoiceOver with your iPhone and iPad. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: Explore how to pair the Focus braille displays via Bluetooth. Understand how to auto-connect and auto-disconnect once paired. Discuss the braille options and how to work with them. Discover braille and Focus-specific commands. | Meeting ID: 814 9421 7204 | Passcode: 239395 | One tap mobile: +16694449171,,81494217204#,,,,*239395# US | Dial by your location: +1 669 444 9171 US | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81494217204?pwd=VExRZDJ2cEVvWklhNFNVQ1NDYjhnZz09#success
6) Essay Writer: a Visual Writing Tool | Call Scotland
August 31st 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Essay Writer is a visual writing tool for students, which is designed to support the development of organizing, writing, and referencing skills. Combining a visual mind map and linear text provokes meaningful learning. The software can help overcome barriers such as weak working memory, slow processing speeds and overwhelming feelings. In this webinar, Helen-Louise Rowe will demonstrate how the application of assistive technology can not only make learning and writing easier but also develop your own skills. Essay Writer utilizes writing tools such as, phrase banks, paragraph highlighting and automatic referencing; as well as offering easy ways to completely restructure essays without the worry of losing track and so much more:
https://www.callscotland.org.uk/professional-learning/webinars/WEB218/
7) ZoomText, JAWS, & Fusion: Products and Licenses | Access Ingenuity
August 31st 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | ZoomText Magnifier with and without speech, JAWS screen reader, and Fusion. What are they, and what are the differences? What are the distinctions among the different license options? In addition, what is a Software Maintenance Agreement? These are Frequently Asked Questions about ZoomText, JAWS, and Fusion. Join Ian Ramos and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity to learn about these products and license options. Learning Outcomes: Explain the difference between ZoomText Magnifier with and without speech, JAWS screen reader, and Fusion. Discuss the advantages of each program and the individuals who would benefit from them. Explore the different license options and understand what a Software Maintenance Agreement is. Meeting ID: 858 5495 8739 | Passcode: 930963 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,85854958739#,,,,*930963# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85854958739?pwd=RTR3ck9TZldMVFp6amM1ckVzSUJ6dz09#success
8) Pixel Phone | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
September 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Has Android bridged the gap with Apple with this remarkable new device? All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
9) Blindness & Diabetes Webinar: Dexcom vs Freestyle Libre | Accessible Pharmacy Services For The Blind
September 23rd 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Blindness and Diabetes Webinar: Dexcom vs Freestyle Libre. Please join Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind and University of Pennsylvania's Diabetes Education Center as we compare Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) devices available to our blind, deafblind, and low vision patients living with diabetes. We will be discussing differences between Dexcom and Freestyle Libre as well as their accessibility features. This webinar will have captioning and a live ASL interpreter. If you are unable to attend, please register to receive the webinar audio and video via email:
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/blindness-diabetes-webinar-dexcom-vs-freestyle-libre/
10) iOS 16 Review And Editing Voice Memos | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
October 1st 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Every year we look for accessibility improvements in our i-devices. See what is new in this latest version of the Apple operating system. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
11) WordPress Accessibility Day
November 2nd 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | WordPress Accessibility Day is a free, 24-hour online event scheduled to start at 15:00 UTC (11:00 US Eastern, 8:00 US Pacific) on Wednesday, November 2nd. The conference will be held virtually so you can present from anywhere worldwide. Here are some other important things to know about speaking at WordPress Accessibility Day: We will provide an accessible speaking experience — the presentation platform will be screen reader-friendly, and we will have captions and sign language interpretation available for speakers as needed. You don't have to have speaking experience! We would love to have first-time speakers present and can support you in presenting as needed. You don't have to be an "expert" or have any special certifications. Anyone with something to share related to accessibility on the web or in WordPress is invited to apply. You can share your journey learning about accessibility or your experience as a person with a disability even if you don't think you've reached the end of that journey yet. Your topic doesn't have to be explicitly WordPress related. While we want some talks specific to WordPress and want to encourage developer-level presentations, not all talks need to be specific to WordPress. General website accessibility talks with broad applications for websites of all types and people of all levels of technical abilities are welcome. If you have an idea for a talk to share your knowledge or experiences about the intersection of WordPress and accessibility, we'd love to hear it!
https://wpaccessibility.day/weekend-plans-apply-to-speak-at-wp-accessibility-day/
12) AT Gifts for the Holidays | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Our annual look at gadgets and gizmos that will make your holiday season a successful one. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
13) ACB's 2022 Audio Description Awards Gala
November 29 2022 | The American Council of the Blind (ACB) proudly announces the second annual Audio Description Awards Gala on November 29, 2022. The Gala will once again celebrate outstanding achievements in audio description in media and expand awareness of its benefits. In recent years there has been enormous success in expanding audio description for audiences who are blind, low vision, or have other sensory disabilities that create barriers to full inclusion in visual media. "The Audio Description Awards Gala will celebrate the best of the best within the art and science of inclusive audio-described media," said Eric Bridges, ACB's Executive Director. "Together we will work to expand awareness of the transformative value that audio description brings to the lives of people with disabilities:"
https://acb.org/save-the-date-2022-AD-Awards
14) Blind Health Expo | The Accessible Pharmacy
December 2nd 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | The Accessible Pharmacy Blind Health Expo will be the largest virtual expo of healthcare information, products, services, and medication for individuals who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision. Join thousands of other attendees and register now for free!
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/blind-health-expo/
15) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
December 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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
✍ List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. Fill out this short form to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-buy-sell-trade or learn more on the Top Tech Tidbits website.
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: Carroll Center for the Blind
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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 Next Generation in Accessibility
Need to quickly access a distant computer with minimal fuss? Need to quickly convert image documents into readable text? Today's students and working professionals demand more of their technology. Employers expect more of their workforce. Pneuma Solutions is bridging the gap using the best in machine learning to connect you to your environment when you need it, how you need it. Give us a try, and experience accessibility on a whole new level:
https://pneumasolutions.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
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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Combine Learning And Gaming For A Fun Braille Adventure With Polly!
APH and Thinkerbell Labs are excited to introduce Polly, complete with customizable UEB lessons, songs, games, and stories! Join our waiting list to know when Polly is available:
https://www.aph.org/polly-wait-list/
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: The Canes Are Coming; The Canes Are Coming!
We are excited to announce that the 60 inch non-collapsing telescopic cane will soon be available! GuideLights and Gadgets is manufacturing this cane exclusively and it will be available before September 15th. The cost will be $70; the 50 and 54 inch models are now available at $50. For more information, contact Barry Scheur at (617) 969-7500 📱️ / bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️ or Kae at (781) 286-1696 📱️ / guidelightdogs@gmail.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, affordable, 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
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: That Real Blind Tech Show
➜ That Real Blind Tech Show Episode 96: We Got More Resolutions, ACB Style!
It's a fully packed That Real Blind Tech show lair. Join us as we recap this year's ACB Resolutions. We chime in with all of our opinions about this year's resolutions, and as usual some hilarity ensues. You will not want to miss both AirPods issues that take place on this episode. We are adding do not listen to That Real Blind Tech show on the bus as we are not responsible for the stares you will receive when laughing or cackling like a lunatic!
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-96-we-got-more-resolutions-acb-style
Sponsor Since: August 11th 2022
Website: https://blindtechshow.com/ 🌐
Email: ThatRealBlindTechShow@gmail.com 📧️
Social: Facebook Page | Facebook Group | Twitter
Listen: Apple Podcasts | Audible | Google Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube
Hosts: Brian Fischler | Ed Plumacher | Allison Meloy | Jenine Stanley
Goals: We want to educate you on the latest tech for the blindness community. You'll learn what is worth keeping and what you need to return. Our goals are: To inform, inspire and educate our audience. Feature guests and products that bring you value. Continuously improve and deliver the best content.
About: A podcast discussing the good & bad of assistive technology for the low vision & totally blind. No longer focused on just Apple VoiceOver technology. That Real Blind Tech show covers all the fantastic talking tech and gadgets out there for the low vision and blindness community. Common topics include Apple's VoiceOver, JAWS, Microsoft Narrator, NVDA, Amazon Alexa and VoiceView, Google Assistant and Android. Basically, if a device can talk to you, we are going to be talking about it. That Real Blind Tech Show will not only educate you, but it will also make you laugh. Listeners are encouraged to not use treadmills or drink hot coffee while listening to our show, or accidents can and have occurred. Dishes have been broken while listening to That Real Blind Tech Show, and while we are responsible for the laughs, we are in no way responsible for the injuries or bills that pile up. Remember to keep it Real and also don't believe anything you hear on That Real Blind Tech Show.
Home | Episodes | Blog | Contact | Subscribe
Sponsor: Aira
Sponsor Since: August 4th 2022
Website: https://aira.io/ 🌐
Download the App: Apple App Store | Google Play Store
Plans and Pricing: https://aira.io/pricing/
Phone: NA: +1.800.835.1934 📱️ | AU: +1.800.765.096 📱️ | UK: +0.800.046.5668 📱️ | NZ: +1.800.425.451 📱️
Text Message: NA: +1.858.242.4457 📲 | AU: +61.488.839.767 📲 | UK: +44.149.320.2474 📲
Email: support@aira.io 📧️
Social: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
About: Aira's mission is to remove barriers and make the world more accessible with visual interpreting.
We provide a live, human-to-human professional assistance service, an accommodation or productivity tool, that enhances independence by delivering on-demand, skilled and reliable visual interpreting for just about any task. Using the powerful combination of a camera and the Aira app on someone's device of 'choice', a professionally-trained agent will assist by visually interpreting what is in the camera's view or on screen, from describing to reading, from explaining to navigating - just about anything, safely and securely. Aira supports a growing range of devices including smart and tactile button phones, desktop computers and soon, wearables.
Whether you are involved in the work of business, the work of school or the work of life, Aira enhances everyday efficiency, engagement, and independence. Used by employees and customers of hundreds of organizations including airports, banks, the largest software companies, financial firms, retailers and universities, we invite you to join the community, access the Aira app today and try it for free.
https://aira.io/download-and-try-it/
Step One: Subscribe and Download. Pick the plan that lets you explore on your terms and on your time, sign up in a few minutes, and download the Aira app to your smartphone. Plans shown are for the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Add or cancel at any time.
Step Two: Connect with an Aira Agent. On the first call, connect with one of our certified, specially-trained Agents and learn how everything works.
Step Three: Real-time Assistance. At the touch of a button, Aira delivers instant access to visual information, when and where you want it.
Sponsor: Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
➜ Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore: Touch Tomorrow in Today's Products
Serving blind people since 1999, we're a family-owned, forward-thinking company offering both tried-and-true and exciting new products for blind and low vision consumers. We design and carry self-voicing educational software, Braille supplies, talking gadgets, adapted household items, tactile card and board games, audible toys and gift ideas. Passionate about innovation, we've also created dozens of products from scratch when a suitable solution did not exist. Shop online at http://www.braillebookstore.com/ and enjoy fast, free shipping.
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: http://www.braillebookstore.com/ 🌐
Phone (Toll Free): (800) 987-1231 📱️
Fax (Toll Free): (800) 985-1231 ░
Email: Sales@BrailleBookstore.com 📧️
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time.
About: Welcome to Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore. We have been supplying products to blind people and their families since 1999. We offer thousands of Braille books, toys, games, kitchen aids, and talking products. We have unbeatable prices, fast, free shipping, and great customer service! We have tons of Braille books and cool products to choose from; so grab a cup of coffee, relax, and we'll give you a quick tour:
Products:
➜ Timekeeping
➜ Housewares
➜ On The Go
➜ Low Vision Products
➜ Toys and Games
➜ Gift Shop
➜ Braille Workshop
➜ Braille Bookstore
➜ Greeting Cards
➜ Copy Center
➜ Computer Lab
➜ Popular Products
➜ New Products
If you need some fresh ideas or have questions, you can also check out our Shopping Guides.
Sponsor: Fable
➜ Free and Accessible Training for the Tech Sector
Fable Pathways helps you gain the skills that you need to work in the tech sector with a free, accessible, and on-demand program. Learn from industry leaders with disabilities to take your career to the next level, like Kelly Ford, Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, who introduces GitHub and VS Code using a screen reader. Spend less time and energy trying to access courses with your assistive technology and focus on the content that matters to you, with Fable Pathways' accessible platform. Sign up today!
https://www.fablepathways.com/
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: https://fablepathways.com/ 🌐
Email: community@makeitfable.com 📧️
Phone: (888) 212-3532 📱️ Extension 810
About: Just like curb cuts help everyone get on and off sidewalks, designing digital products with accessibility in mind helps make the internet more accessible for everyone. Fable is an accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities. Fable connects people with disabilities to accessibility managers, user researchers, designers, and developers to build incredible and accessible user experiences.
Opportunities:
➜ Fable Pathways: Fable Pathways is a free skill development program for people with disabilities interested in working in the tech sector. Sign up to take your career to the next level. Courses include "Getting started in web development" taught by Kelly Ford, a screen reader user, and Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, and "Becoming a manager" taught by Fable's Head of Accessibility Innovation, Kate Kalcevich. Instructors are subject matter experts in their fields and have lived experience with disability. Pathways courses are free, self-paced and assistive-technology-friendly. Sign up now at https://fablepathways.com/.
➜ Fable's Community of Accessibility Testers: Work from home to contribute to real changes in digital accessibility and make the internet a more accessible place for everyone. Ever leave a website because it was too hard to navigate? Because it was missing button labels? Because it didn't respond to voice commands? Us too. Our community of testers who use assistive technologies work from home and contribute to real changes in digital accessibility with recognizable brands. Earn money to share your feedback on websites and apps of your favorite brands and work with companies that care. No experience required and no resume required. Fable is looking for assistive technology users in the USA and Canada to work the hours that they want, from the comfort of their own homes. Learn more at https://fablepathways.com/community/.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ Using Assistive Technology to Evaluate Website Accessibility
Visit the Dolphin Blog to read one of our recent blog articles, Using Assistive Technology to Evaluate Website Accessibility. While you're there, have a look at some of our other Blogs to read articles related to accessibility at home, work and in education:
https://blog.yourdolphin.com/blog/using-dolphin-screenreader-and-supernova-magnifier-speech-to-evaluate-web-accessibility
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Sponsor: Clusiv
➜ Looking For Blind Job-Seekers Wanting To Advance Their Salaries, Careers And Digital Accessibility For The Blind
Are you interested in learning new tech skills and working remotely while earning a competitive salary? At Clusiv.io we have created the world's first digitally accessible e-Learning platform built by the blind, and built for the blind. Visit the link provided and request Clusiv through your Vocational Rehab counselor for lifetime access to our e-Learning platform with courses such as Business Applications, JAWS, and more:
https://clusiv.io/
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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 from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Control the climate of your home independently! The VIP 3000 is a universal heating — cooling talking thermostat This accessible digital thermostat is specifically designed to offer audio playback of indoor temperature, temperature settings and programming instructions so blind and visually impaired users can independently & precisely manage their indoor comfort. Don't over pay. Read more at:
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 every day 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.
Your Name Here
0 of 18 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are currently 0 of 18 packages available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, August 11, 2022 - Volume 871
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.
Subscribers: 7,400 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email. 133 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Find All Your Accessible, Educational and Fun Back-to-School Supplies at Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
Missing a few essential school supplies? Whether you're a teacher or parent of blind children, we've got the tools and gadgets to make class go smoothly all year. Check out our Teachers Corner for audible balls, tactile craft supplies, innovative Braille learning and writing gear, adapted math aids, accessible recorders, educational games and boredom busters. Oh, and did we mention our growing selection of 2,000+ Braille books for all ages?
If you're a university student headed back to campus, or a blind professional wanting to up your game, we've got you covered, too. Our compilation of Bestselling Products includes talking clocks and watches, Braille gifts, family card and board games, accessible kitchen and bathroom tools, creative labeling and marking solutions ... The list goes on.
Finally, visit our Gifts for Grandparents showcase for thoughtful, practical or useful gifts for those seniors in your life. After all, they've given so much for so long that it's time to return the favor!
Learn more today at: http://www.braillebookstore.com/.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Tidbit for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Reader Review: Ice Cube Trays With Covers (5.7% of all clicks.)
Courtesy of Donna Jodhan, Top Tech Tidbits Reader:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/105.html
B.) For Readers With Qualifying Print Disabilities: Downloading Books From The Internet Archive | David Goldfield | Tech-VI List (5.4% of all clicks.)
Some really great information on this topic from David Goldfield himself:
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/2417
C.) Winamp 5.9 RC1 Has Been Released (5.1% of all clicks.)
Last year, we reported that Winamp would be making a comeback soon. Well, it's here. Winamp 5.9 RC1 has been released. This is the first update for the popular music player since Winamp 5.8 beta, that was released in 2018. Learn what's new and what's in store:
https://www.ghacks.net/2022/07/29/winamp-5-9-rc1-has-been-released/
D.) The Tongue: How One Of The Body's Most Sensitive Organs Is Helping Blind People 'See' (4.3% of all clicks.)
Ever wondered why kissing feels better than holding hands? The tongue is a pretty incredible piece of kit, though notoriously difficult to study, due to its position inside the mouth. Obviously, it gives us access to the wonderful world of taste, but more than that, it has greater sensitivity to touch than the fingertip. Without it, we aren't able to speak, sing, breathe efficiently or swallow delicious beverages. So why don't we use it even more? My new study investigates how to make the most of this strange organ — potentially as an interface to help people with visual impairments navigate and even exercise::
https://theconversation.com/the-tongue-how-one-of-the-bodys-most-sensitive-organs-is-helping-blind-people-see-182441
E.) Everything New With Siri and Dictation in iOS 16 (3.9% of all clicks.)
This guide outlines everything that's new with Siri, plus details on the updates to Dictation:
https://www.macrumors.com/guide/ios-16-siri/
2) Top Tech Tidbits Welcomes That Real Blind Tech Show
Please join us in offering a warm Tidbits welcome to That Real Blind Tech Show, who has so very graciously agreed to support the distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication via sponsorship for the next three months. That Real Blind Tech Show is a podcast discussing the good & bad of assistive technology for the low vision & totally blind. No longer focused on just Apple VoiceOver technology, That Real Blind Tech show covers all the fantastic talking tech and gadgets out there for the low vision and blindness community. Common topics include Apple's VoiceOver, JAWS, Microsoft Narrator, NVDA, Amazon Alexa and VoiceView, Google Assistant and Android. Basically, if a device can talk to you, they're going to be talking about it. That Real Blind Tech Show will not only educate you, but it will also make you laugh. Listeners are encouraged not to use treadmills or drink hot coffee while listening to the show, or accidents can and have occurred. Dishes have been broken while listening to That Real Blind Tech Show, and while they are responsible for the laughs, they are in no way responsible for the injuries or bills that pile up. Remember to keep it real, and don't believe anything you hear on That Real Blind Tech Show:
https://blindtechshow.com/
3) Top Tech Tidbits Publisher Updates for August 11th 2022
Updates this week include: Top Tech Tidbits Mailing List Scam Going Around. Important Information You Should Know | Full House. No More Sponsorship Packages Available. Important Note For All Current And Future Sponsors:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/107.html
4) Top Tech Tidbits Editor Alex Marositz And The San Gabriel Valley Panthers Beep Baseball Team Interviewed By NBC on The Today Show
| Listen or watch here:
https://www.nbc.com/today/video/how-beep-baseball-helps-the-visually-impaired-play-ball/NBCN164869873
5) Top Tech Tidbits Click-To-Vote Quick Poll #871 | Sponsored By Dolphin Computer Access
Question: As someone who uses a screen reader or screen magnifier (or both) at work, what was the main driver to determine which assistive technology product(s) you use in the workplace?
A.) I determined what tech I would use based on what I was already using and comfortable with.
Click-To-Vote Link: https://bit.ly/ttt-poll871-a
B.) My organization's IT / Technical Team researched magnification and/or screen readers that would best fit within the organization's technical infrastructure and network.
Click-To-Vote Link: https://bit.ly/ttt-poll871-b
C.) The person responsible for purchasing my accommodation decided based on cost.
Click-To-Vote Link: https://bit.ly/ttt-poll871-c
Poll Link: https://bit.ly/ttt-poll871
6) JAWS Power Tip: JAWS Settings for Specific Web Pages
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/109.html
7) Dolphin SuperNova With Microsoft Office Power Tip: Reviewing The Header Information in a Received Outlook Message
Courtesy of Dolphin Computer Access:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/108.html
8) Table Top Role Play Gaming Community
Have you ever been interested in Table Top Role Play Gaming, such as Dungeons and Dragons, but hesitant to give it a shot or didn't know how? Knights of the Braille is a community of blind, visually impaired, and sighted individuals who welcome everyone. We meet on Discord and the developers are aware of screen reader users, but check us out for yourself:
https://knightsofthebraille.com/
9) Online Workshop: Learn About Leasey: Introduction to Leasey and Using Leasey Select to Easily Select, Copy and Cut Text | August 19th 2022 | David Goldfield
If you are a user of either JAWS or Fusion I would suggest that Leasey from Hartgen Consultancy is a program that you might want to consider using. It adds over sixty additional features and functions to JAWS. Users who are very new to using a computer or who may have cognitive challenges are sure to appreciate Leasey Basic which includes a consistent menu interface for accessing commonly used programs and tasks. Leasey Basic also includes friendly context- sensitive help. When using Leasey Basic the menus along with the context-sensitive help are spoken in a pleasant, human voice. Learn more at:
https://davidgoldfield.wordpress.com/2022/08/07/online-workshop-from-david-goldfield-learn-about-leasey-introduction-to-leasey-and-using-leasey-select-to-easily-select-copy-and-cut-text-friday-august-19-800-pm-eastern-time/
10) BlindShell News: Alexa, Aira, Google Lookout and WhatsApp Now Available on the BlindShell Classic 2
Our team of developers continue to work around the clock to expand the BlindShell App Library (apps) with the new and exciting applications with one goal in mind. Provide greater independence for individuals living with sight loss conditions:
https://blindshellusa.com/?mc_cid=5d720f1e19&mc_eid=6aedce6a9e
11) Blind Android Users Podcast Now Available on Rumble in Addition to YouTube
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/blindandroidusers
Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/c-1771031
12) Microsoft Edge Dev Improves Accessibility With Narrator Improvements
Edge Dev Insiders have a new build to pick up that improves the browser's accessibility:
https://www.windowscentral.com/software-apps/browsing/microsoft-edge-dev-improves-accessibility-with-narrator-improvements
13) 5 Empowering Microsoft Narrator Alternatives for Visually Impaired Windows Users
If Narrator isn't making the cut for you, try an alternative accessibility tool for Windows instead:
https://www.makeuseof.com/windows-narrator-alternatives/
14) Survey: Do You Find It Helpful When People Describe Themselves During Meetings Or At Conferences?
Karen McCall has put together a short survey on whether someone should describe themselves in online meetings. Some of the arguments against this practice are that it takes up too much time, many people who are blind don't feel comfortable trying to describe themselves, and there is the issue of body confidence and body shaming among other posts and discussions. She says, "I've created a two-question anonymous survey to get feedback on whether the practice is helpful and collect any comments (good or bad) about the practice. I will be publishing the results so make sure there is no identifying information in your responses:"
https://forms.office.com/r/Qj5uCZNRTG
15) The Latest Video Game Controller Isn't Plastic. It's Your Face.
Enabled Play is a device that promises to learn to work with a user's facial expression, speech commands, and other motions in interact with videogame systems. It has many other possible applications too:
https://www.washingtonpost.com/video-games/2022/08/01/enabled-play-accessibility-device-video-games/
16) Oxford University Press (OUP) Digitizes Thousands Of Titles To Improve Accessibility Of Research
The publisher said it has migrated more than 42,000 books and 500,000 chapters to its Oxford Academic digital platform, which already hosts 500 journals and three million journal articles:
https://www.thebookseller.com/news/oup-digitises-thousands-of-titles-to-improve-accessibility-of-research
17) New Series of LeaseyBites Has Started | Hartgen Consultancy
The new series of LeaseyBites has started. Episodes are available here:
https://www.hartgen.org/leaseybites
You can also subscribe to a podcast feed of LeaseyBites, available in the iTunes store or here:
https://pinecast.com/feed/leaseybites
18) TeamViewer Quick Support: A Workaround For The TeamViewer Screen Reader Accessibility Challenges | David Goldfield
Many of us who use AIRA are familiar with the TeamViewer application. This gives AIRA agents the ability to remotely access and, if needed, control our computers. This is extremely convenient when we encounter accessibility challenges which require a bit of assistance from a trusted sighted agent. When opening TeamViewer we need to navigate to the fields which contain the TeamViewer partner ID and password to provide to the agent. In the past these edit fields were easily readable with screen readers. Lately, however, these edit fields became inaccessible. There are some workarounds to get around this, such as using the screen reader's speech history feature to review what was spoken, but this method isn't as convenient. The speech history feature is built into JAWS and can be used by installing an optional NVDA add-on:
https://davidgoldfield.wordpress.com/2022/08/10/teamviewer-quicksupport-a-workaround-for-the-teamviewer-screen-reader-accessibility-challenges/
19) WordPress Accessibility Day | November 2nd 2022 | 24-Hour Online Event | Seeking Speakers
WordPress Accessibility Day is a free, 24-hour online event scheduled to start at 15:00 UTC (11:00 US Eastern, 8:00 US Pacific) on Wednesday, November 2nd. The conference will be held virtually so you can present from anywhere worldwide. Here are some other important things to know about speaking at WordPress Accessibility Day: We will provide an accessible speaking experience — the presentation platform will be screen reader-friendly, and we will have captions and sign language interpretation available for speakers as needed. You don't have to have speaking experience! We would love to have first-time speakers present and can support you in presenting as needed. You don't have to be an "expert" or have any special certifications. Anyone with something to share related to accessibility on the web or in WordPress is invited to apply. You can share your journey learning about accessibility or your experience as a person with a disability even if you don't think you've reached the end of that journey yet. Your topic doesn't have to be explicitly WordPress related. While we want some talks specific to WordPress and want to encourage developer-level presentations, not all talks need to be specific to WordPress. General website accessibility talks with broad applications for websites of all types and people of all levels of technical abilities are welcome. If you have an idea for a talk to share your knowledge or experiences about the intersection of WordPress and accessibility, we'd love to hear it:
https://wpaccessibility.day/weekend-plans-apply-to-speak-at-wp-accessibility-day/
20) New Slack Updates To Make Your Digital HQ More Accessible And Equitable
Introducing new ways for users with disabilities to get the most out of Slack:
https://slack.com/blog/news/slack-updates-accessible-equitable
21) Working With Citations and Bibliographies in Microsoft Word Using NVDA | YouTube | Thee Quinn
In this video I show you how to insert and update citations and bibliographies in Microsoft Word with NVDA:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P_1GixLTX1I
22) 63 Best Google Docs Keyboard Shortcuts
Improve your workflow by using keyboard shortcuts for everything. You can even create custom shortcuts that work best for you. Shortcuts work on every app and system, from your Word document to the Windows interface. Many of them also stay the same no matter what program you're using. This article focuses on learning the best keyboard shortcuts for Google Docs:
https://www.online-tech-tips.com/google-softwaretips/63-best-google-docs-keyboard-shortcuts/
23) Here's Your Summer Reading List of Free eBooks
For centuries, libraries have offered access to the printed wisdom (and folly) of humanity, but only to "authorized personnel" in the beginning. Most people had to travel and pay for books, and that was hard on budgets. But now the Internet makes available more good books, old and new, than one person can read in a lifetime. Ready to curl up in your favorite chair (or at the beach) with a good page turner? Here are some places where you can find quality reads free of charge:
https://askbobrankin.com/heres_your_summer_reading_list_free_ebooks.html
24) How to Enable Reader Mode in Google Chrome and Firefox
Chrome and Firefox both come with a reader mode to help declutter pages. Here's how to use the feature in both browsers:
https://www.makeuseof.com/enable-reader-mode-chrome-firefox/
25) Google Search Tools Students Often Overlook
The default action for students to take when given a research task is to turn to Google. Unfortunately, many students won't venture much beyond the first couple of pages of Google.com results pages before declaring, "I can't find anything about this." But as Dan Russell reminds us in The Joy of Search, good search often requires the use of multiple tools. To that end, Google offers search tools beyond just Google.com. Unfortunately, students won't use those tools unless they know that those tools exist and how to use them. Here are some of the Google search tools that students often overlook:
https://www.freetech4teachers.com/2022/08/google-search-tools-students-often.html
26) Participate In An Upcoming Google Research Study
The Fitbit team is inviting people with only one functional biological arm for a new study (US residents only). If you're interested, learn more and sign up at:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe8Rqt-0ArQywc1IYdSsHsTMqglVFpgqAghlOhB8iFa-sDGrg/viewform
27) Accessibility Options For The Peloton Tread Including Using Talkback
Peloton offers information describing how to use Talkback on their Peloton Tread:
https://support.onepeloton.com/hc/en-gb/articles/7290834742036-Peloton-Tread-Accessibility-TalkBack-Screen-Reader
28) Ecobee Smart Thermostat Enhanced vs. Nest Thermostat: Is Ecobee or Nest the Best?
Is Ecobee's model worth the extra bucks? Let's find out:
https://www.cnet.com/home/energy-and-utilities/ecobee-smart-thermostat-enhanced-vs-nest-thermostat-is-ecobee-or-nest-the-best/#ftag=CAD590a51e
29) What Is Apple Arcade? Should You Subscribe? | Wired
Exclusive games and freedom from ads and in-app purchases make this subscription worth trying. We break down the cost, features, and highlights:
https://www.wired.com/story/what-is-apple-arcade/
30) 21 Home Theater Maintenance Tips and Tricks
This slightly off-topic but incredibly thorough article comes to us from a Top Tech Tidbits reader. Whether it's the vibration from the speakers themselves or just general movement, the screws that hold together the drivers (woofer & tweeter) can actually loosen over time unbeknownst to most. This can cause distortion from the driver vibrating against the cabinet, which can typically be heard in the form of some kind of rattling or buzzing. Ultimately this results in a muddy and stifled sound. So to fix this, and ideally prevent this, there's 2 things you can do:
https://easyhometheater.net/home-theater-maintenance-tips-tricks
➜ Press Releases and Other News
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Press Release or Other News item for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) BlindShell Partners with Aira to Debut Aira App on Award-Winning BlindShell Classic 2 Mobile Phone
BlindShell and Aira have announced the integration of the Aira app for live, on-demand visual interpreting with the BlindShell Classic 2 accessible cell phone, which combines a tactile keypad, voice control, and a high-volume speaker for flexibility and ease in operation, eliminating the barriers to communication found in traditional cell phones with touchscreen navigation. The Aira app connects those with vision loss to professionally trained visual interpreters, called Agents, who read documents, assist with navigation, access computers remotely, and provide any other visual information needed to accomplish a task:
https://blindshellusa.com/in-the-news/
2) Pottery Barn Launches Accessible Furniture Line
"The Accessible Home" collection includes bestselling pieces from Pottery Barn's regular lineup that have been tweaked to be more accessible. Chairs have been adapted to offer a lift function while tables, desks and other items have been adjusted to the appropriate height to roll up in a wheelchair. There are also grab bars, non-slip rugs, unbreakable plates and other tabletop products, adjustable beds, mirrors that pivot and more:
https://www.disabilityscoop.com/2022/07/28/pottery-barn-launches-accessible-furniture-line/29964/
3) FTA Issues NOFO For Rail Station Accessibility Program
The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) issued a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for $343 million available through the All-Stations Accessibility Program (ASAP), which is one of four new programs established under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) that was signed into law in November 2021:
https://www.masstransitmag.com/rail/infrastructure/article/21275331/fta-issues-nofo-for-rail-station-accessibility-program
4) Q&A: Jill Bateman Makes Online Accessibility A Priority At Ohio University
Here is an interview with Jill Bateman, digital accessibility coordinator, at Ohio University:
https://edtechmagazine.com/higher/article/2022/08/qa-jill-bateman-makes-online-accessibility-priority-ohio-university?amp
5) Google Glass Helps Kids With Autism Read Facial Expressions
Wearing a device that identifies other people's facial expressions can help children with autism develop better social skills, a Stanford pilot study has demonstrated:
https://med.stanford.edu/news/all-news/2018/08/google-glass-helps-kids-with-autism-read-facial-expressions.html
6) Uber Receives ADA Complaint Over Drivers' Refusal to Transport Guide Dog
A blind Florida resident sued Uber Technologies Inc. for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) violations relating to its drivers' refusal to transport the plaintiff because of his guide dog. The Southern District of Florida complaint argues that the discrimination the plaintiff has experienced is the fault of the company for failing to train its drivers even after notification of the recurring problem:
https://lawstreetmedia.com/news/tech/uber-receives-ada-complaint-over-drivers-refusal-to-transport-guide-dog/
7) Libraries Can Now Share Thoughts And Recommendations With Libby
Overdrive Libby has just gained new functionality for libraries to share thoughts, quotes, trivia and recommendations. Shelf Talkers provides a new space for each library to showcase their curatorial expertise and knowledge through personal notes to patrons within the Libby app. Shelf Talkers in Libby allow librarians to connect with readers by recommending titles, providing interesting facts about a title or author, showing curators' personalities and adding more library-specific flavor to their Libby collection:
https://goodereader.com/blog/digital-library-news/libraries-can-now-share-thoughts-and-recommendations-with-libby
8) Adaptive Sports, Support For Visually-Impaired Hoosiers | YouTube
A nonprofit called Bosma provides services for people in Indiana who are blind of visually impaired:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kM_8KEXUbJc
9) Our Story: U.S. Association of Blind Athletes
USABA was founded by Dr. Charles Buell in 1976 with the purpose of improving the lives of people who are blind and visually impaired. That year, 27 young men and women were selected to represent the United States in the first Olympiad for the Disabled in Toronto, Canada. As a result of this Olympic involvement, a group of national leaders, educators and coaches of the visually impaired met to discuss the need for an organization to structure, promote and sponsor competitions for people who are blind and visually impaired throughout the United States:
https://www.usaba.org/about/our-story/
10) South Western Railway Leads The Way In Sight Loss Trial
In an industry first, South Western Railway has embarked on a trial of new, cutting-edge technology which enables people with sight loss to navigate train stations with greater ease:
https://www.winchestertoday.co.uk/2022/08/swr-leads-the-way-in-sight-loss-trial/
11) Texas A&M Team Translates Thousands Of Pages Of Math Into Braille
A Texas A&M University Disability Resources team is dedicated to ensuring courses are accessible to all Aggie students:
https://today.tamu.edu/2022/08/04/texas-am-team-translates-thousands-of-pages-of-math-into-braille/
12) Riverside-Based Startup's 'Smart' Frames Eye Your Health
What started as eye pressure monitoring designed to track a patient's risk of glaucoma — the most common cause of irreversible blindness — expanded to an ocular health care platform called Blink, with a microscopic camera concealed in stylish eyeglass frames:
https://riversideca.gov/press/riverside-based-startup%E2%80%99s-%E2%80%98smart%E2%80%99-frames-eye-your-health
13) DOJ Announces Intent for Future Website Accessibility Regulations
In July 2022, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced its intent to establish new regulations providing technical standards for website accessibility under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA):
https://www.3playmedia.com/blog/doj-announces-intent-for-future-website-accessibility-regulations/
14) Kellogg's Trials Code For The Visually Impaired
The new code was developed by NaviLens from Spain, where the technology is already in use on public transport, for example. Kellogg's is the first food manufacturer to be using it. "There is a lot of information to be included on packaging. Often even in several languages. This means that everything is written in a small font, which does not make it easy to read. For visually impaired people, it is often even impossible", general manager Luc Houben of Kellogg's Benelux says in Belgian newspaper De Morgen:
https://www.retaildetail.eu/news/food/kelloggs-trials-code-visually-impaired-people/
15) Detroit Students Design Accessible Products, From Menstrual Cycle Apps To Better Walkers
From electronics to cookware, many of the products used in everyday life are developed for able-bodied individuals. But what about people who don't have the use of one of their five senses? Students at Detroit's College for Creative Studies (CCS) are coming up with innovative solutions, through design:
https://www.modeldmedia.com/features/CCSaccessibleproducts.aspx
➜ Surveys
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related survey for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-survey or locate "Survey Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Surveys: From APH
Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
2) Survey: Do You Find It Helpful When People Describe Themselves During Meetings Or At Conferences?
Closes: August 19th 2022 Karen McCall has put together a short survey on whether someone should describe themselves in online meetings. Some of the arguments against this practice are that it takes up too much time, many people who are blind don't feel comfortable trying to describe themselves, and there is the issue of body confidence and body shaming among other posts and discussions. She says, "I've created a two-question anonymous survey to get feedback on whether the practice is helpful and collect any comments (good or bad) about the practice. I will be publishing the results so make sure there is no identifying information in your responses:"
https://forms.office.com/r/Qj5uCZNRTG
3) Survey: Recruiting Participants For An In-Person Study About Augmenting Landmark Navigation Using Augmented Reality For Individuals With Low Vision
Closes: August 31st 2022 The University of Wisconsin-Madison is recruiting participants for an in-person study on the campus. The purpose of this study is to design a landmark-based navigation system using augmented reality (AR) for people with low vision to help them navigate effectively indoor and outdoor. The only requirements for this study are to be 18 years or older, have low vision, and be able to travel to the UW-Madison campus. The study will take roughly two hours to complete with compensation of 20$/hr and reimbursing up to 30$ of travel expenses. Some tasks you will encounter if you participate in the study are navigating several indoor routes around campus, completing a brainstorming session using a Hololens 2 device, and a short interview about your visual condition and AR Experience. If you have any questions, contact information for the research is present on the survey form.
https://forms.gle/nekS8N8xSCGwPWw1A
4) Survey: Participate In An Upcoming Google Research Study
Closes: August 31st 2022 The Fitbit team is inviting people with only one functional biological arm for a new study (US residents only). If you're interested, learn more and sign up at:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe8Rqt-0ArQywc1IYdSsHsTMqglVFpgqAghlOhB8iFa-sDGrg/viewform
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Podcast Episode for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-podcast-episode or locate "Podcast Episode Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) The Impact of Vision Loss on Marriage, Revisited | Hadley Presents | A Conversation With The Experts
August 5th 2022 | Karen and Dan Leonetti share how vision loss has changed their relationship and the advice they have for other couples:
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/impact-vision-loss-marriage-revisited?utm_source=sfmc&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Hadley+Presents+-+Episode+61+-+Marriage+Revisited&utm_term=title_link&utm_id=49321&sfmc_id=17577827
2) Mosen at Large Episode 191: National Federation of the Blind President, Mark Riccobono
August 6th 2022https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/243b20c3/national-federation-of-the-blind-president-mark-riccobono
3) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 87: Privacy, Permissions - Account Activity, Personal Data, Part Two
August 6th 2022 | In this episode we first announce the list of donations received. In our Android Basic section we continue focusing on Privacy Settings and Permission Manager. In our spotlight section we interview the developer of multilingual TTS and unbox the Pixel 6a. In our TalkBack Highlights we focus on the 4th part of the 4 finger gesture:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqolmTDlNDhA9SKGeawdcXcu
4) That Real Blind Tech Show Episode 95: Door Detection Is Damn Sexy
August 8th 2022 | On this episode Brian, Allison, Jeanine, and David Goldstein discuss iOS 16 beta, door detection, Amazon acquiring Roomba, HBO Max and Discovery Plus merging and what it means for accessibility, and a very special What's Pissing Off Brian Now as he has heard back from the Justice Department after being refused service at a business with his guide dog, and of course it is more of Watcha Streaming, Watcha Reading:
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-95-door-detection-is-damn-sexy
5) Eyes on Success Episode 2232: Blind Stand-Up Comedian
August 10th 2022 | During the day, Todd Blenkhorn is an I.T. specialist who works at the Canadian National Institute of the Blind. After work, however, Todd performs in local comedy clubs in Toronto. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Todd about getting into comedy and how he integrates some of his experiences as a blind person into his acts:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202232.htm
6) Blind Abilities Episode 877: iPhone101: A Deeper Dive — Screen Recording on the iPhone and Other iDevices — It's Not Just For Videos
August 10th 2022 | Blind Abilities expands its iPhone101 Series with a follow up episode on a topic which they previously touched upon, but this time they do a "deeper dive". In November of 2021, Pete Lane described the iOS Control Center, and in that review, touched on the iOS screen recording feature. This time, Pete has circled back to cover this feature, but in far greater detail. In this episode: Pete takes a thorough approach toward discussing the entire process of iOS screen recording, beginning with an explanation of what screen recording is, and why we might want to use the iOS screen recording feature. Takes us through the details of where and how to select the screen recording element from our iOS Settings app and add it to the Control Center on our iOS device. Discusses how sensitive our built-in iOS microphones are, and actually demonstrates this by using the built-in mic in an interesting segment of this demonstration, pointing out specific factors which might improve or damage the clarity and quality of your screen recording. These include such issues as your microphone technique, external and ambient sounds and your room conditions:
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7537
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Webinar, Training Course or Event for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-event or locate "Webinar / Training Course Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) What are the Benefits to a Campus, Building, or System-wide License? | Vispero
August 11th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT,11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | In this webinar we will discuss these licensing benefits and host a special guest that will share their reasons for choosing a campus-wide license of Fusion. We will describe the different types of licenses that are offered and the benefits to each of those licenses. We will also briefly cover the differences between ZoomText, JAWS, and Fusion. You won't want to miss this presentation! Learning Objectives: 1. Participants will learn the difference between ZoomText, JAWS, and Fusion. 2. Attendees will discover the benefits of having a multi-user license for their school or campus. 3. Participants will learn about different types of licenses and the benefits to each. Presenters: Michael Wood, Michelle Williams, Douglas Gerry, and Jason Buzzell. Enter to Win $500 Towards a Vispero Product! We'll be choosing one lucky winner to receive $500 towards the product of their choice from Freedom Scientific, Optelec, or Enhanced Vision! This offer is open to U.S. attendees only. You must be present at the time of the drawing to win. ACVREP Credits: ACVREP credits will be available for those who attend the live webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_zwPDKxFPToCa5HGsoFSyCQ
2) AT Update 2022 | Job Accommodation Network
August 11th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12AM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Are you wondering about what's new in the world of assistive technology (AT)? Are you curious about equipment and technology-related accommodation trends? Do you simply have a love of gadgets? Attend this training for an introduction to new and improved products and a discussion of how to apply them as workplace accommodations. JAN Consultants will discuss new accommodation approaches to a variety of accommodation challenges. Presenters: Teresa Goddard , Lead Consultant — Assistive Technology Services. Matthew McCord , Senior Consultant — Motor Team. Christy McCune , Consultant — Sensory Team:
https://askjan.org/events/index.cfm?calview=eventdetails&dtid=E7BA29E3-C79D-7B81-5B1AB0D1629406B4
3) Preparing Access Services for Deaf College Students: Tips and Resources | National Deaf Center
August 11th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Are you a disability services professional coordinating access for deaf students at your college or university? The National Deaf Center has a wide variety of tools and strategies to help create an accessible campus environment for deaf students. This presentation is designed to walk through the initial meeting with deaf students and how to engage in the interactive process that will inform effective accommodations. Presenters will also touch on common accommodations used by deaf students as well as our top tips to prepare for the beginning of the semester. NDC's Help Team specialists will also answer commonly asked questions from participants on implementing accommodations and campus-wide policies and procedures to support effective communication access. Participants will leave with NDC resources designed to support working with a variety of deaf students and communication needs. Interpreters and captioning will be provided for this event. Should you need any additional accommodations please email help@nationaldeafcenter.org 📧️ at least three (3) business days prior to event date. Can't make it but have questions about working with interpreters, captionists, assistive listening systems and other accommodations commonly used by deaf students? Contact our Help Team today at help@nationaldeafcenter.org 📧️ for support. For more information about this webinar or to register:
https://www.nationaldeafcenter.org/news/start-your-semester-strong-tips-resources-dss-professionals
4) NaviLens and Apple air Tags | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
August 13th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Labeling and tracking just got a whole lot easier! Learn how to use these exciting new products. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
5) Every Word Counts: Voice And Message Banking For People With ALS | ALS Association
August 15th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Webinar for the ALS community to learn about Voice and Message Banking:
https://als-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_H5bqTdslSZq9nTw_4n3wTA
6) SuperNova Everyday Essential Webinar: Making and Editing PowerPoints-Using Connect and View for Presentations
August 16th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Watch the recordings at your leisure or participate live every Tuesday at:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/en-us/supernova-everyday-essentials
7) Create Inclusive Customer Experiences: The Basics of Kiosk Accessibility
August 17th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenters: Laura Boniello Miller and Traci Murray, Kiosk Accessibility Experts. Creating inclusive and usable experiences does not only apply to your company website or application but also includes digital interfaces one may encounter at a restaurant, healthcare facility, airport, or movie theater, to name a few. More organizations are adopting self-service kiosk technologies to improve their customers' experience in areas such as self-check-in kiosks, self-service lockers, and escape rooms. However, as recent lawsuits suggest, many of these "out of the box" kiosks are not inclusive or usable by people with disabilities. This webinar is focused on helping teams think about creating more accessible and inclusive customer experiences from website to in-person self-serve kiosk engagements. Join Laura Boniello Miller & Traci Murray for this introduction to kiosk accessibility as they discuss the basics of what kiosk deployers should consider before launching their kiosks into the field:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-august-17-at-12pm-et-create-inclusive-customer-experiences-the-basics-of-kiosk-accessibility/
8) Video Game Accessibility | Pacer Center | Champions For Children with Disabilities
August 17th 2022 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Video games provide an opportunity for social inclusion with an individual's peers, but it can be hard when a lack of accessibility creates barriers. This workshop will showcase a variety of ways video games can be made accessible. Features covered will include Closed Captions and different adaptive devices:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Vwos7JiLRFWNblafwyVPBQ
9) RUBY Handheld Magnifiers: A Vision Solution for Every Situation (ACVREP CE Approved) | Access Ingenuity
August 17th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Did you know there are five RUBY models to help with your low-vision needs? RUBY handheld video magnifiers provide the help that many people with low vision need to read text and see details. All RUBY models have a crisp, sharp image, high-contrast modes, and built-in LEDs. The streamlined design means RUBY can go with you anywhere, giving you easy access to photos, letters, prescriptions, packaging labels, and menus, even in a dark restaurant. With its broad range of adjustable, undistorted magnification, a RUBY video magnifier outperforms a drawerful of traditional magnifiers. Join Ian Ramos from Access Ingenuity with Joe McDaniel from Vispero to discuss the features and benefits of all the RUBY models and the assistance each can give in specific situations. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: Features of all RUBY models. How to determine which size is right for you. How adding speech capability can take you further. Meeting ID: 886 6576 5413. Passcode: 174052. One tap mobile: +16699009128,,88665765413#,,,,*174052# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88665765413?pwd=Q1ZmRzREanBwcVE0V0RBVjRQdUxVdz09#success
10) Back to School with Freedom Scientific, Access Digital Textbooks with JAWS
August 18th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Are you looking for ways to navigate and read textbooks? Join us on Thursday, August 18 at noon Eastern time for a live webinar, "Back to School with Freedom Scientific, Access Digital Textbooks with JAWS." Objectives: In this session, you'll learn how to: Open DAISY books using FSReader. Search for and download books on Bookshare. Open Kindle books and use advanced features. Freedom Scientific Presenters: Elizabeth Whitaker, Cathy Johnson, and Rachel Buchanan. ACVREP Credits: ACVREP credits will be available for those who attend the live webinar. Help Us Spread the Word: Please feel free to share this invitation with someone you think might benefit from attending. Register:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_9EHd1wnLSLmcdrNbTTvKuA
11) Online Workshop: Learn About Leasey: Introduction to Leasey and Using Leasey Select to Easily Select, Copy and Cut Text | David Goldfield
August 19th 2022 | 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12AM GMT on 8/20 | If you are a user of either JAWS or Fusion I would suggest that Leasey from Hartgen Consultancy is a program that you might want to consider using. It adds over sixty additional features and functions to JAWS. Users who are very new to using a computer or who may have cognitive challenges are sure to appreciate Leasey Basic which includes a consistent menu interface for accessing commonly used programs and tasks. Leasey Basic also includes friendly context- sensitive help. When using Leasey Basic the menus along with the context-sensitive help are spoken in a pleasant, human voice. Learn more and join the meeting at:
https://davidgoldfield.wordpress.com/2022/08/07/online-workshop-from-david-goldfield-learn-about-leasey-introduction-to-leasey-and-using-leasey-select-to-easily-select-copy-and-cut-text-friday-august-19-800-pm-eastern-time/
12) Using Focus Braille Displays on VoiceOver with iPhone & iPad (ACVREP CE Approved) | Access Ingenuity
August 24th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | While it is possible to use VoiceOver on an iPhone and iPad with finger gestures and an external keyboard, are you aware that it is also possible to connect a braille display via Bluetooth and operate your iPhone and iPad? In addition, while VoiceOver has general braille commands while working with most braille displays, there are further keyboard key assignments with the Focus braille displays allowing you to navigate even more conveniently and efficiently. Join Rachel Reeves, Marisa Church, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity along with Joe McDaniel from Vispero to explore how to use a Focus braille display to increase your efficiency while using VoiceOver with your iPhone and iPad. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: Explore how to pair the Focus braille displays via Bluetooth. Understand how to auto-connect and auto-disconnect once paired. Discuss the braille options and how to work with them. Discover braille and Focus-specific commands. | Meeting ID: 814 9421 7204 | Passcode: 239395 | One tap mobile: +16694449171,,81494217204#,,,,*239395# US | Dial by your location: +1 669 444 9171 US | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81494217204?pwd=VExRZDJ2cEVvWklhNFNVQ1NDYjhnZz09#success
13) Essay Writer: a Visual Writing Tool | Call Scotland
August 31st 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Essay Writer is a visual writing tool for students, which is designed to support the development of organising, writing, and referencing skills. Combining a visual mind map and linear text provokes meaningful learning. The software can help overcome barriers such as weak working memory, slow processing speeds and overwhelming feelings. In this webinar, Helen-Louise Rowe will demonstrate how the application of assistive technology can not only make learning and writing easier but also develop your own skills. Essay Writer utilises writing tools such as, phrase banks, paragraph highlighting and automatic referencing; as well as offering easy ways to completely restructure essays without the worry of losing track and so much more:
https://www.callscotland.org.uk/professional-learning/webinars/WEB218/
14) ZoomText, JAWS, & Fusion: Products and Licenses | Access Ingenuity
August 31st 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | ZoomText Magnifier with and without speech, JAWS screen reader, and Fusion. What are they, and what are the differences? What are the distinctions among the different license options? In addition, what is a Software Maintenance Agreement? These are Frequently Asked Questions about ZoomText, JAWS, and Fusion. Join Ian Ramos and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity to learn about these products and license options. Learning Outcomes: Explain the difference between ZoomText Magnifier with and without speech, JAWS screen reader, and Fusion. Discuss the advantages of each program and the individuals who would benefit from them. Explore the different license options and understand what a Software Maintenance Agreement is. Meeting ID: 858 5495 8739 | Passcode: 930963 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,85854958739#,,,,*930963# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85854958739?pwd=RTR3ck9TZldMVFp6amM1ckVzSUJ6dz09#success
15) Pixel Phone | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
September 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Has Android bridged the gap with Apple with this remarkable new device? All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
16) Blindness & Diabetes Webinar: Dexcom vs Freestyle Libre | Accessible Pharmacy Services For The Blind
September 23rd 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Blindness and Diabetes Webinar: Dexcom vs Freestyle Libre. Please join Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind and University of Pennsylvania's Diabetes Education Center as we compare Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) devices available to our blind, deafblind, and low vision patients living with diabetes. We will be discussing differences between Dexcom and Freestyle Libre as well as their accessibility features. This webinar will have captioning and a live ASL interpreter. If you are unable to attend, please register to receive the webinar audio and video via email:
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/blindness-diabetes-webinar-dexcom-vs-freestyle-libre/
17) iOS 16 Review And Editing Voice Memos | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
October 1st 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Every year we look for accessibility improvements in our i-devices. See what is new in this latest version of the Apple operating system. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
18) WordPress Accessibility Day
November 2nd 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | WordPress Accessibility Day is a free, 24-hour online event scheduled to start at 15:00 UTC (11:00 US Eastern, 8:00 US Pacific) on Wednesday, November 2nd. The conference will be held virtually so you can present from anywhere worldwide. Here are some other important things to know about speaking at WordPress Accessibility Day: We will provide an accessible speaking experience — the presentation platform will be screen reader-friendly, and we will have captions and sign language interpretation available for speakers as needed. You don't have to have speaking experience! We would love to have first-time speakers present and can support you in presenting as needed. You don't have to be an "expert" or have any special certifications. Anyone with something to share related to accessibility on the web or in WordPress is invited to apply. You can share your journey learning about accessibility or your experience as a person with a disability even if you don't think you've reached the end of that journey yet. Your topic doesn't have to be explicitly WordPress related. While we want some talks specific to WordPress and want to encourage developer-level presentations, not all talks need to be specific to WordPress. General website accessibility talks with broad applications for websites of all types and people of all levels of technical abilities are welcome. If you have an idea for a talk to share your knowledge or experiences about the intersection of WordPress and accessibility, we'd love to hear it!
https://wpaccessibility.day/weekend-plans-apply-to-speak-at-wp-accessibility-day/
19) AT Gifts for the Holidays | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Our annual look at gadgets and gizmos that will make your holiday season a successful one. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
20) ACB's 2022 Audio Description Awards Gala
November 29 2022 | The American Council of the Blind (ACB) proudly announces the second annual Audio Description Awards Gala on November 29, 2022. The Gala will once again celebrate outstanding achievements in audio description in media and expand awareness of its benefits. In recent years there has been enormous success in expanding audio description for audiences who are blind, low vision, or have other sensory disabilities that create barriers to full inclusion in visual media. "The Audio Description Awards Gala will celebrate the best of the best within the art and science of inclusive audio-described media," said Eric Bridges, ACB's Executive Director. "Together we will work to expand awareness of the transformative value that audio description brings to the lives of people with disabilities:"
https://acb.org/save-the-date-2022-AD-Awards
21) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
December 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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
✍ List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. Fill out this short form to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-buy-sell-trade or learn more on the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) FOR SALE: One Focus 40, 5th Generation Braille Display
Listing Date: 7/21/2022 | Price: $1,825.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Selling a Brand New Freedom Scientific Vispero Focus 40 Blue 5th Generation Braille display and notetaker in retail box with all its new accessories including all software and cords and new premium leather carrying case. Text me anytime. | Contact: Chris via email at: cs567eml@gmail.com 📧️ or by text at: (225) 307-0008 📱️. |
2) FOR SALE: One Focus 40, 5th Generation
Listing Date: 7/21/2022 | Price: $1,500.00 USD | Condition: Gently used. | Description: In excellent condition. Works perfectly. Includes leather carrying case and strap, adapter and cord, and user's manual in braille. Asking $1500 or best offer. I will ship to U.S. or Canada. I accept PayPal. Thanks. | Contact: Roger via email at: roger@roger.ca 📧️ or by phone at: (519) 280-1643 📱️. |
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: Pneuma Solutions
➜ The Next Generation in Accessibility
Need to quickly access a distant computer with minimal fuss? Need to quickly convert image documents into readable text? Today's students and working professionals demand more of their technology. Employers expect more of their workforce. Pneuma Solutions is bridging the gap using the best in machine learning to connect you to your environment when you need it, how you need it. Give us a try, and experience accessibility on a whole new level:
https://pneumasolutions.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
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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Combine Learning And Gaming For A Fun Braille Adventure With Polly!
APH and Thinkerbell Labs are excited to introduce Polly, complete with customizable UEB lessons, songs, games, and stories! Join our waiting list to know when Polly is available:
https://www.aph.org/polly-wait-list/
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: The Canes Are Coming; The Canes Are Coming!
We are excited to announce that the 60 inch non-collapsing telescopic cane will soon be available! GuideLights and Gadgets is manufacturing this cane exclusively and it will be available before September 15th. The cost will be $70; the 50 and 54 inch models are now available at $50. For more information, contact Barry Scheur at (617) 969-7500 📱️ / bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️ or Kae at (781) 286-1696 📱️ / guidelightdogs@gmail.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, affordable, 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
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: That Real Blind Tech Show
➜ That Real Blind Tech Show Episode 95: Door Detection Is Damn Sexy
On this episode Brian, Allison, Jeanine, and David Goldstein discuss iOS 16 beta, door detection, Amazon acquiring Roomba, HBOMax and Discovery Plus merging and what it means for accessibility, and a very special What's Pissing Off Brian Now as he has heard back from the Justice Department after being refused service at a business with his guide dog, and of course it is more of Watcha Streaming, Watcha Reading:
https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-95-door-detection-is-damn-sexy
Sponsor Since: August 11th 2022
Website: https://blindtechshow.com/ 🌐
Email: ThatRealBlindTechShow@gmail.com 📧️
Social: Facebook Page | Facebook Group | Twitter
Listen: Apple Podcasts | Audible | Google Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube
Hosts: Brian Fischler | Ed Plumacher | Allison Meloy | Jenine Stanley
Goals: We want to educate you on the latest tech for the blindness community. You'll learn what is worth keeping and what you need to return. Our goals are: To inform, inspire and educate our audience. Feature guests and products that bring you value. Continuously improve and deliver the best content.
About: A podcast discussing the good & bad of assistive technology for the low vision & totally blind. No longer focused on just Apple VoiceOver technology. That Real Blind Tech show covers all the fantastic talking tech and gadgets out there for the low vision and blindness community. Common topics include Apple's VoiceOver, JAWS, Microsoft Narrator, NVDA, Amazon Alexa and VoiceView, Google Assistant and Android. Basically, if a device can talk to you, we are going to be talking about it. That Real Blind Tech Show will not only educate you, but it will also make you laugh. Listeners are encouraged to not use treadmills or drink hot coffee while listening to our show, or accidents can and have occurred. Dishes have been broken while listening to That Real Blind Tech Show, and while we are responsible for the laughs, we are in no way responsible for the injuries or bills that pile up. Remember to keep it Real and also don't believe anything you hear on That Real Blind Tech Show.
Home | Episodes | Blog | Contact | Subscribe
Sponsor: Aira
Sponsor Since: August 4th 2022
Website: https://aira.io/ 🌐
Download the App: Apple App Store | Google Play Store
Plans and Pricing: https://aira.io/pricing/
Phone: NA: +1.800.835.1934 📱️ | AU: +1.800.765.096 📱️ | UK: +0.800.046.5668 📱️ | NZ: +1.800.425.451 📱️
Text Message: NA: +1.858.242.4457 📲 | AU: +61.488.839.767 📲 | UK: +44.149.320.2474 📲
Email: support@aira.io 📧️
Social: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
About: Aira's mission is to remove barriers and make the world more accessible with visual interpreting.
We provide a live, human-to-human professional assistance service, an accommodation or productivity tool, that enhances independence by delivering on-demand, skilled and reliable visual interpreting for just about any task. Using the powerful combination of a camera and the Aira app on someone's device of 'choice', a professionally-trained agent will assist by visually interpreting what is in the camera's view or on screen, from describing to reading, from explaining to navigating - just about anything, safely and securely. Aira supports a growing range of devices including smart and tactile button phones, desktop computers and soon, wearables.
Whether you are involved in the work of business, the work of school or the work of life, Aira enhances everyday efficiency, engagement, and independence. Used by employees and customers of hundreds of organizations including airports, banks, the largest software companies, financial firms, retailers and universities, we invite you to join the community, access the Aira app today and try it for free.
https://aira.io/download-and-try-it/
Step One: Subscribe and Download. Pick the plan that lets you explore on your terms and on your time, sign up in a few minutes, and download the Aira app to your smartphone. Plans shown are for the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Add or cancel at any time.
Step Two: Connect with an Aira Agent. On the first call, connect with one of our certified, specially-trained Agents and learn how everything works.
Step Three: Real-time Assistance. At the touch of a button, Aira delivers instant access to visual information, when and where you want it.
Sponsor: Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
➜ Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore: Touch Tomorrow in Today's Products
Serving blind people since 1999, we're a family-owned, forward-thinking company offering both tried-and-true and exciting new products for blind and low vision consumers. We design and carry self-voicing educational software, Braille supplies, talking gadgets, adapted household items, tactile card and board games, audible toys and gift ideas. Passionate about innovation, we've also created dozens of products from scratch when a suitable solution did not exist. Shop online at http://www.braillebookstore.com/ and enjoy fast, free shipping.
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: http://www.braillebookstore.com/ 🌐
Phone (Toll Free): (800) 987-1231 📱️
Fax (Toll Free): (800) 985-1231 ░
Email: Sales@BrailleBookstore.com 📧️
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time.
About: Welcome to Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore. We have been supplying products to blind people and their families since 1999. We offer thousands of Braille books, toys, games, kitchen aids, and talking products. We have unbeatable prices, fast, free shipping, and great customer service! We have tons of Braille books and cool products to choose from; so grab a cup of coffee, relax, and we'll give you a quick tour:
Products:
➜ Timekeeping
➜ Housewares
➜ On The Go
➜ Low Vision Products
➜ Toys and Games
➜ Gift Shop
➜ Braille Workshop
➜ Braille Bookstore
➜ Greeting Cards
➜ Copy Center
➜ Computer Lab
➜ Popular Products
➜ New Products
If you need some fresh ideas or have questions, you can also check out our Shopping Guides.
Sponsor: Fable
➜ Advance Your Career With Fable Pathways' Free, Accessible Online Learning
Fable Pathways helps you gain the skills that you need to work in the tech sector with a free, accessible, and on-demand program. Learn from industry leaders with disabilities to take your career to the next level, like Kelly Ford, Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, who introduces GitHub and VS Code using a screen reader. Spend less time and energy trying to access courses with your assistive technology and focus on the content that matters to you, with Fable Pathways' accessible platform. Sign up today!
https://tinyurl.com/25jwux3p
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: https://fablepathways.com/ 🌐
Email: community@makeitfable.com 📧️
Phone: (888) 212-3532 📱️ Extension 810
About: Just like curb cuts help everyone get on and off sidewalks, designing digital products with accessibility in mind helps make the internet more accessible for everyone. Fable is an accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities. Fable connects people with disabilities to accessibility managers, user researchers, designers, and developers to build incredible and accessible user experiences.
Opportunities:
➜ Fable Pathways: Fable Pathways is a free skill development program for people with disabilities interested in working in the tech sector. Sign up to take your career to the next level. Courses include "Getting started in web development" taught by Kelly Ford, a screen reader user, and Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, and "Becoming a manager" taught by Fable's Head of Accessibility Innovation, Kate Kalcevich. Instructors are subject matter experts in their fields and have lived experience with disability. Pathways courses are free, self-paced and assistive-technology-friendly. Sign up now at https://fablepathways.com/.
➜ Fable's Community of Accessibility Testers: Work from home to contribute to real changes in digital accessibility and make the internet a more accessible place for everyone. Ever leave a website because it was too hard to navigate? Because it was missing button labels? Because it didn't respond to voice commands? Us too. Our community of testers who use assistive technologies work from home and contribute to real changes in digital accessibility with recognizable brands. Earn money to share your feedback on websites and apps of your favorite brands and work with companies that care. No experience required and no resume required. Fable is looking for assistive technology users in the USA and Canada to work the hours that they want, from the comfort of their own homes. Learn more at https://fablepathways.com/community/.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ Join the Dolphin Friends Program
Dolphin Friends supports, recognizes, and rewards the great work that charities and sight loss societies do to support the people in their community who are visually impaired. Members receive free Dolphin software, staff training on GuideConnect and SuperNova, computing accessories and a useful resource pack to help you advise your service users on Dolphin assistive technology. Join Dolphin Friends:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/join-dolphin-friends-us
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Sponsor: Clusiv
➜ Looking For Blind Job-Seekers Wanting To Advance Their Salaries, Careers And Digital Accessibility For The Blind
Are you interested in learning new tech skills and working remotely while earning a competitive salary? At Clusiv.io we have created the world's first digitally accessible e-Learning platform built by the blind, and built for the blind. Visit the link provided and request Clusiv through your Vocational Rehab counselor for lifetime access to our e-Learning platform with courses such as Business Applications, JAWS, and more:
https://clusiv.io/
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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 from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Control the climate of your home independently! The VIP 3000 is a universal heating — cooling talking thermostat This accessible digital thermostat is specifically designed to offer audio playback of indoor temperature, temperature settings and programming instructions so blind and visually impaired users can independently & precisely manage their indoor comfort. Don't over pay. Read more at:
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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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.
Your Name Here
0 of 18 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are currently 0 of 18 packages available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, August 4, 2022 - Volume 870
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.
Subscribers: 7,381 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email. 126 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Learn How To Code And Launch Your Career With Free, Accessible Courses From Fable Pathways
Frustrated with inaccessible online learning? Us too. That's why we launched Fable Pathways, a free, accessible, self-paced skill-building program for people with disabilities interested in working in the tech sector. Spend less time trying to access on-line learning and focus on gaining the skills that you need to advance your career.
Explore topics from web development to management with industry professionals with disabilities who know what it takes to become experts in their fields. Get your career in the tech industry started today with free, accessible, skill building from Fable Pathways. Unlock your free learning at: https://hubs.ly/Q01j9JBm0.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Tidbit for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Everything New With Siri and Dictation in iOS 16 (9.7% of all clicks.)
This guide outlines everything that's new with Siri, plus details on the updates to Dictation:
https://www.macrumors.com/guide/ios-16-siri/
B.) Apple's New Dictation Feature Changes Everything For Writers (9.4% of all clicks.)
Favorite Features: Auto-punctuation, select and replace with voice, and a hybrid voice-keyboard experience:
https://medium.com/swlh/apples-new-dictation-feature-changes-everything-for-writers-a0bc06be50e5
C.) What's New in JAWS 2022 Screen Reading Software | July 2022 (7.8% of all clicks.)
https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/JAWS/JAWSWhatsNew#Enhancements
D.) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: Outlook 365 and the Focused Inbox (7.7% of all clicks.)
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/61.html
E.) Review: The Joule Oven Air Fryer Pro by Breville | Wired (4.8% of all clicks.)
Breville's new countertop air fryer oven can be controlled by a mobile app. Unlike with many other connected appliances, that's a good thing:
https://www.wired.com/review/breville-joule-oven-air-fryer-pro/
2) Top Tech Tidbits Welcomes Aira
Please join us in offering a warm Tidbits welcome to Aira, who has so very graciously agreed to support the distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication via sponsorship for the next year. Aira is a service that connects people who are blind or have low vision to highly trained, remotely-located human agents. Through an app on your smartphone, Aira delivers instant access to visual information at the touch of a button — enhancing everyday efficiency, engagement, and independence. Download the Aira app today and try it for free:
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/aira/id1071584352
Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=io.aira.smart&hl=en_US&gl=US
3) One Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Package Currently Available
I am very happy to report that our waiting list has been cleared and there is currently one sponsorship package available to any potential Sponsor that might wish to secure it. So if you've been thinking about joining us, now is the perfect opportunity. If you're not sure if Tidbits is the right fit for your business or organization I encourage you to consider a quarterly trial. After 3 months of exposure in Tidbits you can decide for yourself the true value of a Sponsorship position. The first potential sponsor to reach out to publisher@toptechtidbits.com will be provided with links to secure a package. You will be able to choose between our $325 per quarter option or our $1200 per year option. Please note that you will only have 72 hours to secure your package by paying for it before it will be offered to the next potential sponsor on our waiting list, if there is a waiting list at the time. When there is not, we will always keep your invoices active until there is. Please consider joining us. Become one of the 18 industry leaders that support the world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology while enjoying some really incredible benefits:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html
4) Dolphin SuperNova With Microsoft Office Power Tip: Accessing The Office Quick Access Toolbar
Courtesy of Dolphin Computer Access:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/106.html
5) Reader Review: Ice Cube Trays With Covers
Courtesy of Donna Jodhan, Top Tech Tidbits Reader:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/105.html
6) PDF Accessibility Auto-Tag
Adobe is experimenting with a service to auto-tag PDFs for accessibility for its customers. If you want to join the early access program, complete their Early Access Program — Intake Questionnaire at:
https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=Wht7-jR7h0OUrtLBeN7O4W2e3DfyxtBEu1EvkmM_xbRURVJHNDRFMkFFMjZBU0Y3N1BWVzZTVUY1MC4u
7) TikTok Rolls Out New Accessibility And Translation Tools To Bring Its Content To More Users
TikTok is bringing auto-generated captions and language translation options:
https://techcrunch.com/2022/07/21/tiktok-new-accessibility-translation-tools/
8) Twitter Is Improving Its Accessibility Features - But There's More Work To Be Done
We've written about image descriptions on Twitter previously. TechRadar asks why this feature isn't on by default:
https://www.techradar.com/news/twitter-is-improving-its-accessibility-features-but-theres-more-work-to-be-done
9) New Blind Cloud Computing Discussion List
The Blind Cloud Computing List is for those wishing to learn how to build and manage cloud environments as a blind cloud computing professional or if you simply want to learn just what cloud computing is, its advantages it has for individuals and organizations, and how to learn to build and manage a cloud infrastructure under various operating systems such as Android, iOS, Linux, and Microsoft Windows. We also invite those charged with insuring that cloud platforms and their resources are accessible to and usable by blind cloud professionals. To subscribe to the Blind Cloud Computing List send an e-mail message to:
blindcloudcomputing+subscribe@googlegroups.com 📧️
10) NV Access In-Process for July 27th 2022
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-27th-july-2022/
11) For Readers With Qualifying Print Disabilities: Downloading Books From The Internet Archive | David Goldfield | Tech-VI List
Some really great information on this topic from David Goldfield himself:
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/2417
12) Tidbits Reader and PhD Candidate Rachelle Morissette Asks For Help From Tidbits Readers
Hello! My name is Rachelle Morissette. I'm a PhD candidate in Information Systems at the University of Pittsburgh. I'm looking for volunteers to participate in a research study titled "Internet decision making by users with visual impairments" (IDMUVI). The purpose of this study is to examine how people with visual impairments make decisions about search results and websites. To do that, I will be interviewing participants and asking them questions regarding their thought processes and preferences when browsing online. It will also include information about their background (e.g., age, race, gender, level of vision), as well as their opinions and experiences using websites. The interview process is expected to take between 45 minutes to one hour to complete. I'm looking for willing participants who are 18 years of age or older, have a level of vision that would be considered low vision or blindness, go online daily or almost daily, and use assistive technology to go online. Each participant will receive $15 as compensation via an Amazon gift card as a token of appreciation. There are no foreseeable risks associated with this project, nor are there any direct benefits to you. Any participation in this study is voluntary and participants may withdraw at any time with no effect on their relationship with the University of Pittsburgh. If you are interested in participating, please contact me by phone at (412) 339-0169 📱️ or email at katzvistudy@pitt.edu 📧️. Thank you!
13) The BlindShell Accessible Cell Phone with Tactile Buttons is Growing to Meet the Needs of the Blind and Visually Impaired. Yes, Tactile Buttons on a Smart Phone! Did we mention Aira? Yup, Aira! | Blind Abilities Podcast
One of our Partners, Blind Abilities Podcast, welcomes guests from BlindShell USA as they talk about the latest update to the BlindShell Accessible Cell Phone Classic 2:
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7491
14) APH Announces PageBlaster Extended Warranty
Extended warranties are now available for PageBlaster embossers. Created through a partnership with HumanWare, this powerful embosser for continuous fanfold paper can be purchased with Federal Quota funds:
https://www.aph.org/announcing-the-pageblaster-extended-warranty/
15) InclusionHub Launches Podcast Tackling Digital Inaccessibility & Non-Inclusion
To commemorate the 32nd anniversary of the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) being signed into law, online digital accessibility and inclusion resource directory InclusionHub has released the inaugural episode of a podcast series devoted to exposing the truth behind the current state of the web, and searching for meaningful solutions:
https://www.yahoo.com/now/inclusionhub-launches-podcast-tackling-digital-133000629.html
16) Freedom Scientific August 2022 Training Events
The Freedom Scientific training team offers ongoing opportunities for you to advance your skills:
https://blog.freedomscientific.com/join-us-for-our-august-2022-training-events/
17) AppleVis Unlimited: What's New and Noteworthy for July 2022
https://www.applevis.com/newsletter/applevis-unlimited-whats-new-noteworthy-july-2022
18) Help Us To Test LibreOffice 7.4 RC2
The LibreOffice Quality Assurance (QA) Team is happy to announce that LibreOffice 7.4 Release Candidate 2 (RC2) is available for testing:
https://qa.blog.documentfoundation.org/2022/08/01/help-us-to-test-libreoffice-7-4-rc2/
19) Free Online Spell Checker
This submission comes to us from a Tidbits reader. This tool allows you to check spelling by URL or text insertion and offers several other features:
https://www.websiteplanet.com/webtools/spell-checker/
20) It's A Boat! It's A Tank! It's The Physical Description Of The Nokia X100 Budget Phone | The Thoughts and Ramblings of Steve
21) Winamp 5.9 RC1 Has Been Released
Last year, we reported that Winamp would be making a comeback soon. Well, it's here. Winamp 5.9 RC1 has been released. This is the first update for the popular music player since Winamp 5.8 beta, that was released in 2018. Learn what's new and what's in store:
https://www.ghacks.net/2022/07/29/winamp-5-9-rc1-has-been-released/
22) Android 13 Beta Is Now Live For The Google Pixel 6a
Despite only being out for less than a week, the Google Pixel 6a is getting a welcome update. Google has released the Android 13 Beta, which is now available for download on the Pixel 6a. The update isn't a major one when it comes to looks, but it does bring a wealth of new features and minor cosmetic changes:
https://www.xda-developers.com/android-13-beta-for-the-google-pixel-6a/
23) New Facebook Group: Surveys And Research Opportunities For The Blind And Visually Impaired
This update comes to us from Top Tech Tidbits reader Adrijana Propenko. This group is designed to help people who do research and surveys for the blind connect with blind and visually impaired people. If you are blind or visually impaired and want to connect to people who do paid or free research and surveys regarding the blind or visually impaired, or are someone who does this type of research, you can find our Facebook Group by searching for: Surveys and Research Opportunities for the Blind or Visually Impaired, or by clicking the link below and opening the Join Group button:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1119297175660163?view=group
24) 3 Ways to Hear Dialogue Better on TV
Do you have a hard time hearing characters over big action sequences? Below, we're breaking down a few ways you can improve the intake of dialogue on TV ranging from adjusting your settings to using headphones:
https://www.tvinsider.com/1052014/fix-tv-sound-dialogue-settings-soundbar/
25) How to Access and Change Your Wi-Fi Router's Settings
Here's how to sign into a router to change your network's name, password, and other information:
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-access-your-wi-fi-routers-settings
26) Accessibility Overlays Make The Web Worse, Not Better | New York Times
A recent article written by Amanda Morris at the New York Times titled: 'For Blind Internet Users, the Fix Can Be Worse Than the Flaws,' has sparked conversation in the digital access industry about the benefits and issues of accessibility overlays:
https://www.accessibility.org.au/accessibility-overlays-make-the-web-worse-not-better-new-york-times/
27) The Tongue: How One Of The Body's Most Sensitive Organs Is Helping Blind People 'See'
Ever wondered why kissing feels better than holding hands? The tongue is a pretty incredible piece of kit, though notoriously difficult to study, due to its position inside the mouth. Obviously, it gives us access to the wonderful world of taste, but more than that, it has greater sensitivity to touch than the fingertip. Without it, we aren't able to speak, sing, breathe efficiently or swallow delicious beverages. So why don't we use it even more? My new study investigates how to make the most of this strange organ — potentially as an interface to help people with visual impairments navigate and even exercise:
https://theconversation.com/the-tongue-how-one-of-the-bodys-most-sensitive-organs-is-helping-blind-people-see-182441
28) 'A Dream Come True': The Dane County Organization Making Baseball Accessible
An example of accessible baseball:
https://www.wkow.com/news/a-dream-come-true-the-dane-county-organization-making-baseball-accessible/article_e15de6ae-08a2-11ed-8331-3f151c088335.html
29) 2022 National Beep Baseball World Series
We would like to congratulate the Indi Edge on their 2022 Beep Baseball World Series win:
https://www.nbba.org/2022ws/
And, if you would like to participate as a player, coach, or volunteer, you can contact the team nearest you at:
https://www.nbba.org/teams/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Press Release or Other News item for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) AccessReady Reporter | Issue 29 | July 28th 2022
The Reporter Newsletter is a service of Access Ready Inc. which is an independent, non-profit, cross-disability education and advocacy organization promoting a policy of inclusion and accessibility of information and communications technology (ICT). For people with disabilities, accessible information and communications technology is a necessity, not a luxury or a convenience, which fosters independence, economic self-sufficiency, and active, meaningful participation in civic life:.
https://accessreadyreporter.org/issue-29-july-28-2022.html
2) Beyoncé Changing Lyrics Over Disability Concerns
This is the second artist in a month to change Lyrics because of ablest language:
https://www.disabilityscoop.com/2022/08/02/beyonce-changing-lyrics-over-disability-concerns/29968/
3) For People With A Different Way Of Thinking, A Different Approach To Hiring
Mastercard recently introduced a pilot program geared toward employment of more neurodiverse people:
https://www.mastercard.com/news/perspectives/2022/supporting-neurodiversity-in-the-workforce/
4) Aussie Tech To Help The Blind Read Screens Hits US
Brisbane-based blind inventors Michael Curran and James Teh have signed up Texas State University to use their free screen reading software NVDA, marking a milestone for the open-sourced not-for-profit:
https://www.afr.com/technology/aussie-tech-to-help-the-blind-read-screens-hits-us-20220715-p5b1w3
5) The Good, the Bad, and the Current Landscape of COVID-19 At-Home Test Accessibility
The pandemic has exposed many life-threatening inequities in many "systems" for people who have disabilities, including blindness or low vision. In early 2022, the New York Times published a story with the headline: 'Covid Tests Inaccessible to the Blind', highlighting one issue in a series of serious issues that have arisen for people who are blind or low vision. Furthermore, The Flatten Inaccessibility Study, conducted during the first year of the coronavirus pandemic, documented many of the challenges those who are blind or low vision faced. Let's look at the potential inequities surrounding COVID-19, the process of obtaining an in-home test kit, the accessibility of test kits, and how accessibility is evolving and improving:
https://visionaware.org/blog/visionaware-blog/the-good-the-bad-and-the-current-landscape-of-covid-19-at-home-test-accessibility/
6) Two New Bots Can Help Newsrooms Prioritize Accessibility And Alt Text
With more than a decade of experience in visual journalism, user experience, and front-end development, Patrick Garvin shares how prioritizing accessibility is possible for all newsroom employees, not just tech staff:
https://www.niemanlab.org/2022/07/two-new-bots-can-help-newsrooms-prioritize-accessibility-and-alt-text/
7) How A Visual Language Evolves As Our World Does
Ubiquitous video technology and social media have given deaf people a new way to communicate. They're using it to transform American Sign Language:
https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2022/07/26/us/american-sign-language-changes.html
8) How AI Is Being Used To Help Blind Students 'Visualize' Graphs And Charts
Roll back the decades, or for the more youthful, a shorter few years, and reflect for a moment on the foundational educational importance of being able to interpret graphs and charts from early high school years onwards. Imagine then, the experience of young learners with sight loss who, when undertaking vital education in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) subjects, lack even a frame of reference for what a graph or chart is in the first place — let alone the data that it relays:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/gusalexiou/2022/07/27/how-ai-is-being-used-to-help-blind-students-visualize-graphs-and-charts/?sh=390f3b442c6d
9) Researchers Win Prize For Software That Makes Self-Driving Cars More Accessible
The VEMI lab at the University of Maine earned third place in a national competition and an invitation to the White House for developing an inclusive smartphone software platform that will provide navigational assistance to people with visual impairment and seniors who want to use self-driving cars for ride-sharing and hailing services:
https://coolblindtech.com/researchers-win-prize-for-software-that-makes-self-driving-cars-more-accessible/
10) Republicans Mock VP Harris For Offering Visual Description At Meeting With Disability Advocates
Vice President Kamala Harris was mocked by Republicans seizing on her introduction at a roundtable for disability advocates to mark the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Harris told the group gathered at the White House that her pronouns are she and her, and she described what she was wearing. The clip went viral in conservative circles, with the Republican Party and GOP members of Congress joining in to ridicule Harris:
https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2022/07/27/harris-gop-disability-blind/10164235002/
11) Spotify Paid Over $120 Million for DIY Audiobook Platform Findaway
The acquisition marks the music streaming giant's ambitions to become the world's leading audio platform, bringing music, podcast and audiobook streaming under one roof. Adding audiobooks to Spotify's ever-growing library would allow the streaming service to bring in a new base of content creators and listeners to the service:
https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/spotify-paid-120-million-to-acquire-an-audiobook-platform/#ftag=CAD590a51e
12) 'Talking' Glasses: How An Artificial Intelligence Device Helps Blind Students In Brazil | Innovation
"People don't always understand me. Few can really know what inclusion is. For me, having a technology that allows me to read different books by turning words into audio has brought me more confidence, security and independence". The testimony is from student Kayenne Alves, 16 years old, resident of Cuiabá, Mato Grosso. Visually impaired since she was born, the student at the Federal Institute of Mato Grosso (IFMT) received something from the institution that, according to her, has made her progress in her studies since April: the artificial intelligence device called Orcam MyEye:
https://thegoaspotlight.com/2022/07/28/talking-glasses-how-an-artificial-intelligence-device-helps-blind-students-in-brazil-innovation/
13) Building a More Accessible Social Virtual Reality World
Imagine trying to navigate a virtual space without being able to see the objects in it. If a host tells everyone to move to the outside space and you can't see where is outside and where is inside in the virtual world, then how do you do that?
https://equalentry.com/accessibility-social-virtual-reality-a11yvr/
14) A Blind Researcher Making A More Accessible World
Joshua Miele has spent his career trying to make the world more accessible for blind and visually impaired people. As a blind person, his lived experiences have shaped the way he thinks about technology and how it can be used to better serve disabled people. He's invented products like YouDescribe — a tool that adds audio description to YouTube videos — and Tactile Maps Automated Production, a software that creates tactile maps for people to feel:
https://www.sciencefriday.com/segments/joshua-miele-adaptive-technology/
15) Caught On Camera: Visually Impaired Woman, Service Animal Denied Uber Ride
Melisa Licon was born with a visual impairment, she has low vision but is legally blind. The number of times she's been denied rides by Uber drivers, she said, is frequent. So, she began recording the incidents:
https://kdvr.com/news/local/caught-on-camera-visually-impaired-woman-service-animal-denied-uber-ride/
16) Promoting Workplace Equity Through Inclusive Innovation: What's New In Microsoft 365 Accessibility For Summer 2022
Last week, we celebrated the thirty-second anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs, schools, transportation, and all public and private places that are open to the general public. The ADA helps ensure that people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else. At Microsoft, we support the ADA's goal by developing products and features that help our customers drive greater accessibility and inclusion across their organizations, especially as so many transition to hybrid and remote work. This summer, we've continued to push forward in three key areas crucial to inclusion in the hybrid workplace: making meetings more accessible to all, providing more flexible and streamlined options for creating and consuming content, and supporting mental health and neurodiversity through features that give you greater control over time and tasks:
https://blogs.microsoft.com/accessibility/whats-new-in-microsoft-365-accessibility-for-summer-2022/
➜ Surveys
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related survey for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-survey or locate "Survey Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Surveys: From APH
Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
2) Survey: Internet Decision Making By Users With Visual Impairments" (IDMUVI)
Closes: August 25th 2022 Tidbits Reader and PhD Candidate Rachelle Morissette Asks For Help From Other Tidbits Readers. Hello! My name is Rachelle Morissette. I'm a PhD candidate in Information Systems at the University of Pittsburgh. I'm looking for volunteers to participate in a research study titled "Internet Decision Making By Users With Visual Impairments" (IDMUVI). The purpose of this study is to examine how people with visual impairments make decisions about search results and websites. To do that, I will be interviewing participants and asking them questions regarding their thought processes and preferences when browsing online. It will also include information about their background (e.g., age, race, gender, level of vision), as well as their opinions and experiences using websites. The interview process is expected to take between 45 minutes to one hour to complete. I'm looking for willing participants who are 18 years of age or older, have a level of vision that would be considered low vision or blindness, go online daily or almost daily, and use assistive technology to go online. Each participant will receive $15 as compensation via an Amazon gift card as a token of appreciation. There are no foreseeable risks associated with this project, nor are there any direct benefits to you. Any participation in this study is voluntary and participants may withdraw at any time with no effect on their relationship with the University of Pittsburgh. If you are interested in participating, please contact me by phone at (412) 339-0169 📱️ or email at katzvistudy@pitt.edu 📧️. Thank you!
3) Survey: Recruiting Participants For An In-Person Study About Augmenting Landmark Navigation Using Augmented Reality For Individuals With Low Vision
Closes: August 31st 2022 The University of Wisconsin-Madison is recruiting participants for an in-person study on the campus. The purpose of this study is to design a landmark-based navigation system using augmented reality (AR) for people with low vision to help them navigate effectively indoor and outdoor. The only requirements for this study are to be 18 years or older, have low vision, and be able to travel to the UW-Madison campus. The study will take roughly two hours to complete with compensation of 20$/hr and reimbursing up to 30$ of travel expenses. Some tasks you will encounter if you participate in the study are navigating several indoor routes around campus, completing a brainstorming session using a Hololens 2 device, and a short interview about your visual condition and AR Experience. If you have any questions, contact information for the research is present on the survey form.
https://forms.gle/nekS8N8xSCGwPWw1A
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Podcast Episode for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-podcast-episode or locate "Podcast Episode Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) BrailleCast 44: Braille Without a Braille Display: Braille Screen Input and More
July 5th 2022 2022 | If you have an iPhone, iPad or Android device, it's highly likely that you can braille in grade 2 directly on the touch screen and have it back translated instantly — a perfect replacement for the on screen keyboard. In this episode, Matthew Horspool and special guest Chris Norman demonstrate how this works on both iOS and Android:
https://www.braillecast.com/podcast/x044/
2) FSCast 218: Eric Damery Looks Back on his Career
July 27th 2022 | On FSCast 218, Eric Damery joins Glen Gordon for what will probably be the last time. After over 28 years tirelessly advocating for JAWS and other software, and generally always being around to help users who are having problems, he's decided to retire. This time, rather than talking about a new product feature, Eric is here to reflect upon some of the highlights of his career:
https://blog.freedomscientific.com/xfscast-218-eric-damery-looks-back-on-his-career/
3) Airacast Episode 41: The Blind Shell Classic2 Phone
July 29th 2022 | Next in our Aira Everywhere series we talk with Diane Ducharme of Blind Shell USA about the Blind Shell Classic2, a tactile phone with many features for those who don't want to use a touch screen. For more information about this phone, on which Aira will appear soon, go to http://blindshellusa.com. To find a dealer outside the US, go to http://blindshell.com/where-to-buy. Listen at:
https://pnc.st/s/airacast/feaf7d55/airacast-41-the-blind-shell-classic-2-phone
4) Mosen at Large Episode 190: The Visual Description Debate Goes Viral, More On Abuse At Schools For The Blind, And Remote Incident Manager From Pneuma Solutions
5) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 86: Privacy, Permissions and More
July 30th 2022 | In this episode we talk about all things privacy. We talk about a general overview of the privacy settings on Pixel and Samsung phones. We then demo the first 2 options. The accessibility usage and privacy dashboard on Pixel and the Permission Manager on Samsung. For the app of the week, we demo Rumble, a video streaming app. We have part 3 of the 4-finger gesture in the Talkback Highlights. This podcast can be found at:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqox63JsMm8qytemvu2Nv3h_
6) Eyes on Success Episode 2231: Marine Biology
August 3rd 2022 | Maureen Hayden is completing her PhD in marine biology. With limited vision, she uses a variety of tools to assist her when working in the field, in the lab, as well as to teach. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with her about how she got interested in the subject, how she does her research and how her results will impact the health of the planet.
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202231.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Webinar, Training Course or Event for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-event or locate "Webinar / Training Course Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Braille Room | ACB Community
August 7th 2022 | 3PM PT, 4PM MT, 5PM CT, 6PM ET, 10PM GMT | This webinar is part of a community call. Braille learners, whatever their level, or anyone interested in teaching other persons Braille may get the Zoom info by emailing:
comunnity@acb.org 📧️
2) Supporting the Next Billion Users: Personalization & the Web
August 9th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenter: Matthew Atkinson, Senior Accessibility Engineer at TPGi, and co-chair of the W3C's Accessible Platform Architectures (APA) working group. Content must be understandable to be accessible. The W3C is working on standards that will help you empower people who may struggle to understand your content and interfaces. In the future, the web will adapt to users' needs. Learn how to use (with technical examples) and shape these exciting emerging developments. Register today:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-august-9-at-12pm-et-supporting-the-next-billion-users-personalization-the-web/
3) AT Update 2022 | Job Accomodation Network
August 11th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12AM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Are you wondering about what's new in the world of assistive technology (AT)? Are you curious about equipment and technology-related accommodation trends? Do you simply have a love of gadgets? Attend this training for an introduction to new and improved products and a discussion of how to apply them as workplace accommodations. JAN Consultants will discuss new accommodation approaches to a variety of accommodation challenges. Presenters: Teresa Goddard , Lead Consultant — Assistive Technology Services. Matthew McCord , Senior Consultant — Motor Team. Christy McCune , Consultant — Sensory Team:
https://askjan.org/events/index.cfm?calview=eventdetails&dtid=E7BA29E3-C79D-7B81-5B1AB0D1629406B4
4) Preparing Access Services for Deaf College Students: Tips and Resources | National Deaf Center
August 11th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Are you a disability services professional coordinating access for deaf students at your college or university? The National Deaf Center has a wide variety of tools and strategies to help create an accessible campus environment for deaf students. This presentation is designed to walk through the initial meeting with deaf students and how to engage in the interactive process that will inform effective accommodations. Presenters will also touch on common accommodations used by deaf students as well as our top tips to prepare for the beginning of the semester. NDC's Help Team specialists will also answer commonly asked questions from participants on implementing accommodations and campus-wide policies and procedures to support effective communication access. Participants will leave with NDC resources designed to support working with a variety of deaf students and communication needs. Interpreters and captioning will be provided for this event. Should you need any additional accommodations please email help@nationaldeafcenter.org 📧️ at least three (3) business days prior to event date.Can't make it but have questions about working with interpreters, captionists, assistive listening systems and other accommodations commonly used by deaf students? Contact our Help Team today at help@nationaldeafcenter.org 📧️ for support. For more information about this webinar or to register:
https://www.nationaldeafcenter.org/news/start-your-semester-strong-tips-resources-dss-professionals
5) NaviLens and Apple air Tags | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
August 13th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Labeling and tracking just got a whole lot easier! Learn how to use these exciting new products. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
6) Every Word Counts: Voice And Message Banking For People With ALS | ALS Association
August 15th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Webinar for the ALS community to learn about Voice and Message Banking:
https://als-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_H5bqTdslSZq9nTw_4n3wTA
7) SuperNova Everyday Essential Webinar: Keboard Mapping For More Advanced Users Who Are Using SuperNova With Other Applications
August 16th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Watch the recordings at your leisure or participate live every Tuesday at:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/en-us/supernova-everyday-essentials
8) Create Inclusive Customer Experiences: The Basics of Kiosk Accessibility
August 17th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenters: Laura Boniello Miller and Traci Murray, Kiosk Accessibility Experts. Creating inclusive and usable experiences does not only apply to your company website or application but also includes digital interfaces one may encounter at a restaurant, healthcare facility, airport, or movie theater, to name a few. More organizations are adopting self-service kiosk technologies to improve their customers' experience in areas such as self-check-in kiosks, self-service lockers, and escape rooms. However, as recent lawsuits suggest, many of these "out of the box" kiosks are not inclusive or usable by people with disabilities. This webinar is focused on helping teams think about creating more accessible and inclusive customer experiences from website to in-person self-serve kiosk engagements. Join Laura Boniello Miller & Traci Murray for this introduction to kiosk accessibility as they discuss the basics of what kiosk deployers should consider before launching their kiosks into the field:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-august-17-at-12pm-et-create-inclusive-customer-experiences-the-basics-of-kiosk-accessibility/
9) Video Game Accessibility | Pacer Center | Champions For Children with Disabilities
August 17th 2022 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Video games provide an opportunity for social inclusion with an individual's peers, but it can be hard when a lack of accessibility creates barriers. This workshop will showcase a variety of ways video games can be made accessible. Features covered will include Closed Captions and different adaptive devices:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Vwos7JiLRFWNblafwyVPBQ
10) Essay Writer: a Visual Writing Tool | Call Scotland
August 31st 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | Essay Writer is a visual writing tool for students, which is designed to support the development of organising, writing, and referencing skills. Combining a visual mind map and linear text provokes meaningful learning. The software can help overcome barriers such as weak working memory, slow processing speeds and overwhelming feelings. In this webinar, Helen-Louise Rowe will demonstrate how the application of assistive technology can not only make learning and writing easier but also develop your own skills. Essay Writer utilises writing tools such as, phrase banks, paragraph highlighting and automatic referencing; as well as offering easy ways to completely restructure essays without the worry of losing track and so much more:
https://www.callscotland.org.uk/professional-learning/webinars/WEB218/
11) Pixel Phone | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
September 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Has Android bridged the gap with Apple with this remarkable new device? All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
12) Blindness & Diabetes Webinar: Dexcom vs Freestyle Libre | Accessible Pharmacy Services For The Blind
September 23rd 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Blindness and Diabetes Webinar: Dexcom vs Freestyle Libre. Please join Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind and University of Pennsylvania's Diabetes Education Center as we compare Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) devices available to our blind, deafblind, and low vision patients living with diabetes. We will be discussing differences between Dexcom and Freestyle Libre as well as their accessibility features. This webinar will have captioning and a live ASL interpreter. If you are unable to attend, please register to receive the webinar audio and video via email:
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/blindness-diabetes-webinar-dexcom-vs-freestyle-libre/
13) iOS 16 Review And Editing Voice Memos | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
October 1st 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Every year we look for accessibility improvements in our i-devices. See what is new in this latest version of the Apple operating system. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
14) AT Gifts for the Holidays | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Our annual look at gadgets and gizmos that will make your holiday season a successful one. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
15) ACB's 2022 Audio Description Awards Gala
November 29 2022 | The American Council of the Blind (ACB) proudly announces the second annual Audio Description Awards Gala on November 29, 2022. The Gala will once again celebrate outstanding achievements in audio description in media and expand awareness of its benefits. In recent years there has been enormous success in expanding audio description for audiences who are blind, low vision, or have other sensory disabilities that create barriers to full inclusion in visual media. "The Audio Description Awards Gala will celebrate the best of the best within the art and science of inclusive audio-described media," said Eric Bridges, ACB's Executive Director. "Together we will work to expand awareness of the transformative value that audio description brings to the lives of people with disabilities:"
https://acb.org/save-the-date-2022-AD-Awards
16) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
December 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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
✍ List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. Fill out this short form to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-buy-sell-trade or learn more on the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) FOR SALE: One Focus 40, 5th Generation Braille Display
Listing Date: 7/21/2022 | Price: $1,825.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Selling a Brand New Freedom Scientific Vispero Focus 40 Blue 5th Generation Braille display and notetaker in retail box with all its new accessories including all software and cords and new premium leather carrying case. Text me anytime. | Contact: Chris via email at: cs567eml@gmail.com 📧️ or by text at: (225) 307-0008 📱️. |
2) FOR SALE: One Focus 40, 5th Generation
Listing Date: 7/21/2022 | Price: $1,500.00 USD | Condition: Gently used. | Description: In excellent condition. Works perfectly. Includes leather carrying case and strap, adapter and cord, and user's manual in braille. Asking $1500 or best offer. I will ship to U.S. or Canada. I accept PayPal. Thanks. | Contact: Roger via email at: roger@roger.ca 📧️ or by phone at: (519) 280-1643 📱️. |
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
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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Combine Learning And Gaming For A Fun Braille Adventure With Polly!
APH and Thinkerbell Labs are excited to introduce Polly, complete with customizable UEB lessons, songs, games, and stories! Join our waiting list to know when Polly is available:
https://www.aph.org/polly-wait-list/
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: The Canes Are Coming; The Canes Are Coming!
We are excited to announce that the 60 inch non-collapsing telescopic cane will soon be available! GuideLights and Gadgets is manufacturing this cane exclusively and it will be available before September 15th. The cost will be $70; the 50 and 54 inch models are now available at $50. For more information, contact Barry Scheur at (617) 969-7500 📱️ / bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️ or Kae at (781) 286-1696 📱️ / guidelightdogs@gmail.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, affordable, 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
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: Aira
Sponsor Since: August 4th 2022
Website: https://aira.io/ 🌐
Download the App: Apple App Store | Google Play Store
Plans and Pricing: https://aira.io/pricing/
Phone: NA: +1.800.835.1934 📱️ | AU: +1.800.765.096 📱️ | UK: +0.800.046.5668 📱️ | NZ: +1.800.425.451 📱️
Text Message: NA: +1.858.242.4457 📲 | AU: +61.488.839.767 📲 | UK: +44.149.320.2474 📲
Email: support@aira.io 📧️
Social: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
About: Aira's mission is to remove barriers and make the world more accessible with visual interpreting.
We provide a live, human-to-human professional assistance service, an accommodation or productivity tool, that enhances independence by delivering on-demand, skilled and reliable visual interpreting for just about any task.Using the powerful combination of a camera and the Aira app on someone's device of 'choice', a professionally-trained agent will assist by visually interpreting what is in the camera's view or on screen, from describing to reading, from explaining to navigating - just about anything, safely and securely. Aira supports a growing range of devices including smart and tactile button phones, desktop computers and soon, wearables.
Whether you are involved in the work of business, the work of school or the work of life, Aira enhances everyday efficiency, engagement, and independence. Used by employees and customers of hundreds of organizations including airports, banks, the largest software companies, financial firms, retailers and universities, we invite you to join the community, access the Aira app today and try it for free.
https://aira.io/download-and-try-it/
Step One: Subscribe and Download. Pick the plan that lets you explore on your terms and on your time, sign up in a few minutes, and download the Aira app to your smartphone. Plans shown are for the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Add or cancel at anytime.
Step Two: Connect with an Aira Agent. On the first call, connect with one of our certified, specially-trained Agents and learn how everything works.
Step Three: Real-time Assistance. At the touch of a button, Aira delivers instant access to visual information, when and where you want it.
Sponsor: Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
➜ Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore: Touch Tomorrow in Today's Products
Serving blind people since 1999, we're a family-owned, forward-thinking company offering both tried-and-true and exciting new products for blind and low vision consumers. We design and carry self-voicing educational software, Braille supplies, talking gadgets, adapted household items, tactile card and board games, audible toys and gift ideas. Passionate about innovation, we've also created dozens of products from scratch when a suitable solution did not exist. Shop online at http://www.braillebookstore.com/ and enjoy fast, free shipping.
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: http://www.braillebookstore.com/ 🌐
Phone (Toll Free): (800) 987-1231 📱️
Fax (Toll Free): (800) 985-1231 ░
Email: Sales@BrailleBookstore.com 📧️
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time.
About: Welcome to Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore. We have been supplying products to blind people and their families since 1999. We offer thousands of Braille books, toys, games, kitchen aids, and talking products. We have unbeatable prices, fast, free shipping, and great customer service! We have tons of Braille books and cool products to choose from; so grab a cup of coffee, relax, and we'll give you a quick tour:
Products:
➜ Timekeeping
➜ Housewares
➜ On The Go
➜ Low Vision Products
➜ Toys and Games
➜ Gift Shop
➜ Braille Workshop
➜ Braille Bookstore
➜ Greeting Cards
➜ Copy Center
➜ Computer Lab
➜ Popular Products
➜ New Products
If you need some fresh ideas or have questions, you can also check out our Shopping Guides.
Sponsor: Fable
➜ Advance Your Career With Fable Pathways' Free, Accessible Online Learning
Fable Pathways helps you gain the skills that you need to work in the tech sector with a free, accessible, and on-demand program. Learn from industry leaders with disabilities to take your career to the next level, like Kelly Ford, Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, who introduces GitHub and VS Code using a screen reader. Spend less time and energy trying to access courses with your assistive technology and focus on the content that matters to you, with Fable Pathways' accessible platform. Sign up today!
https://tinyurl.com/25jwux3p
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: https://fablepathways.com/ 🌐
Email: community@makeitfable.com 📧️
Phone: (888) 212-3532 📱️ Extension 810
About: Just like curb cuts help everyone get on and off sidewalks, designing digital products with accessibility in mind helps make the internet more accessible for everyone. Fable is an accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities. Fable connects people with disabilities to accessibility managers, user researchers, designers, and developers to build incredible and accessible user experiences.
Opportunities:
➜ Fable Pathways: Fable Pathways is a free skill development program for people with disabilities interested in working in the tech sector. Sign up to take your career to the next level. Courses include "Getting started in web development" taught by Kelly Ford, a screen reader user, and Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, and "Becoming a manager" taught by Fable's Head of Accessibility Innovation, Kate Kalcevich. Instructors are subject matter experts in their fields and have lived experience with disability. Pathways courses are free, self-paced and assistive-technology-friendly. Sign up now at https://fablepathways.com/.
➜ Fable's Community of Accessibility Testers: Work from home to contribute to real changes in digital accessibility and make the internet a more accessible place for everyone. Ever leave a website because it was too hard to navigate? Because it was missing button labels? Because it didn't respond to voice commands? Us too. Our community of testers who use assistive technologies work from home and contribute to real changes in digital accessibility with recognizable brands. Earn money to share your feedback on websites and apps of your favorite brands and work with companies that care. No experience required and no resume required. Fable is looking for assistive technology users in the USA and Canada to work the hours that they want, from the comfort of their own homes. Learn more at https://fablepathways.com/community/.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ Join the Dolphin Friends Program
Dolphin Friends supports, recognizes, and rewards the great work that charities and sight loss societies do to support the people in their community who are visually impaired. Members receive free Dolphin software, staff training on GuideConnect and SuperNova, computing accessories and a useful resource pack to help you advise your service users on Dolphin assistive technology. Join Dolphin Friends:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/join-dolphin-friends-us
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Sponsor: Clusiv
➜ Looking For Blind Job-Seekers Wanting To Advance Their Salaries, Careers And Digital Accessibility For The Blind
Are you interested in learning new tech skills and working remotely while earning a competitive salary? At Clusiv.io we have created the world's first digitally accessible e-Learning platform built by the blind, and built for the blind. Visit the link provided and request Clusiv through your Vocational Rehab counselor for lifetime access to our e-Learning platform with courses such as Business Applications, JAWS, and more:
https://clusiv.io/
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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 from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Control the climate of your home independently! The VIP 3000 is a universal heating — cooling talking thermostat This accessible digital thermostat is specifically designed to offer audio playback of indoor temperature, temperature settings and programming instructions so blind and visually impaired users can independently & precisely manage their indoor comfort. Don't over pay. Read more at:
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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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 Next Generation in Accessibility
Need to quickly access a distant computer with minimal fuss? Need to quickly convert image documents into readable text? Today's students and working professionals demand more of their technology. Employers expect more of their workforce. Pneuma Solutions is bridging the gap using the best in machine learning to connect you to your environment when you need it, how you need it. Give us a try, and experience accessibility on a whole new level:
https://pneumasolutions.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.
Your Name Here
1 of 18 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are 1 of 18 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, July 28, 2022 - Volume 869
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.
Subscribers: 7,370 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email. 127 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Clusiv.io, Your Path To A Remote Career With The Competitive Salary You Deserve
We specialize in training our job seekers for purpose-driven careers with competitive salaries that they have earned and truly deserve. Our e-learning platform, which is built by the blind, and built for the blind will give you lifetime access to an ever-expanding curriculum list filled with courses such as JAWS Bootcamp, Business Applications, and other Employment-Based educational courses that focus on resume and interview preparation.
Clusiv's goal is to not only train and prepare you for a meaningful career, but also to create a network of blind and visually impaired professionals that smash through digital accessibility barriers and ensure that emerging technologies focus on accessibility first, not last. If you're interested in our mission, then request us through your state or VA Vocational Rehab counselor and visit Clusiv.io to sign up. No money will come out of your pocket, just more money into it! Learn more today at:
https://clusiv.io/new-student/
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Tidbit for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) JAWS Power Tip: Using Speech on Demand (7.2% of all clicks.)
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/99.html
B.) My Experience Taking The Covid-19 Home Accessible Test | Scott Davert | Tech-VI List (6.4% of all clicks.)
I had to take a Covid test over the weekend and figured I would share my experience. Since I do not have any vision, I'm not able to provide feedback from that perspective. First, the box that arrives contained 2 tests:
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/2356
C.) Fast Highlighting Using Two Keyboard Shortcuts In Word (6.2% of all clicks.)
There are two keyboard shortcuts to highlight text in Word, for some reason Microsoft has hidden the main one and the alternative has an annoying inconsistency:
https://office-watch.com/2022/fast-highlighting-two-shortcuts-word/
D.) Tips For Soup and Salad | Hadley Dining Out Series (4.6% of all clicks.)
Learn a few tips to enjoy soup and salad with skill, no matter what's on the menu - and no matter your level of vision:
https://hadley.edu/workshops/dining-out-series/tips-for-soup-and-salad
E.) What Are the Top 6 Problem Spots for Blind Testers in Accessibility Testing? (4.1% of all clicks.)
Here is an article on barriers blind testers may face when checking for accessibility issues on the web:
https://equalentry.com/accessibility-problems-blind-testers/
2) Two Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Packages Currently Available
I am very happy to report that our waiting list has been cleared and there are currently two sponsorship packages available to any potential Sponsor that might wish to secure one. So if you've been thinking about joining us, now is the perfect opportunity. If you're not sure if Tidbits is the right fit for your business or organization I encourage you to consider a quarterly trial. After 3 months of exposure in Tidbits you can decide for yourself the true value of a Sponsorship position. The first two potential sponsors to reach out to publisher@toptechtidbits.com will be provided with links to secure a package. You will be able to choose between our $325 per quarter option or our $1200 per year option. Please note that you will only have 72 hours to secure your package by paying for it before it will be offered to the next potential sponsor on our waiting list, if there is a waiting list at the time. When there is not, we will always keep your invoices active until there is. Please consider joining us. Become one of the 18 industry leaders that support the world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology while enjoying some really incredible benefits:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Publisher Updates for July 28th 2022
Updates this week include: New Publisher Updates Section Now Available on the Top Tech Tidbits Website | Top Tech Tidbits Now Offers Submission Forms To Content Contributors For All Sections of the Newsletter | Calendar For Sponsors Updated To Include Usage Information:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/103.html
4) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: Outlook 365 and the Focused Inbox
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/61.html
5) Dolphin SuperNova Power Tip: Adding A Permanent Place Marker To A Web Page
Courtesy of Dolphin Computer Access:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/104.html
6) AccessWorld June 2022
Updates this month include: Editor's Notes: AccessWorld Premium Content and Accessible At-Home COVID-19 Tests | A Recap of Apple's 2022 WWDC (Worldwide Developers Conference) | Employment Matters: Nefertiti Matos Olivares, Audio Description Narrator And Writer | Creating "Inclusion at work" through an interactive Ideathon | An Introduction to Accessible Audio Editing with Reaper | Canute 360: The World's First Multi-line Braille Display:
https://www.afb.org/aw/full-issue?id=17968
7) Listserv for BlindShell Users or Potential Users
Christopher Gray runs this Listserv. To join please send a blank email to:
blindshell2+subscribe@groups.io 📧️
8) New Firmware for the BrailleSense 6 and Polaris Line of Notetakers
HIMS is pleased to announce this maintenance update for BrailleSense 6 and BrailleSense 6 mini notetakers. This firmware is available immediately as an online upgrade or you can find the firmware file on the resource page for offline installation:
https://mailchi.mp/hims-inc.com/the-new-braillesense-6-and-6-mini-firmware-is-here-11531479?e=30ab869171
9) Apple's New Dictation Feature Changes Everything For Writers
Favorite Features: Auto-punctuation, select and replace with voice, and a hybrid voice-keyboard experience:
https://medium.com/swlh/apples-new-dictation-feature-changes-everything-for-writers-a0bc06be50e5
10) Aira Version 5.2.1 for iOS Released
Aira version 5.2.1 for iOS has been released and is available for update in the App Store. This update fixes an issue with the public beta of iOS16 in which audio is lost once a call is connected:
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/aira/id1071584352
11) Making Your Home Low Vision Friendly | Hadley | Ask The Experts
Imagine going from one room of your home to the next and the next without ever bumping into, knocking over, or breaking ... anything. Every room's well-lit and organized. There's a nice balance of color contrast. It all feels custom made just for you and your level of vision. Well, this doesn't have to live only in your imagination. Let's make things easier to see, prevent injuries and make your home fit your needs, by making some simple changes:
https://hadley.edu/workshops/low-vision-series/making-your-home-low-vision-friendly
12) What's New in JAWS 2022 Screen Reading Software | July 2022
https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/JAWS/JAWSWhatsNew#Enhancements
13) NLS Promotes Braille on Demand to Patrons
Braille Books Patrons Can Keep. As part of its braille modernization initiative, NLS launched the Braille-on-Demand pilot project on Monday, June 20, 2022. This project allows active NLS patrons to request and receive one hard-copy braille title per month, which they can retain for their personal use. If an individual who is not registered as a patron submits an order, NLS will refer the individual to their local network library to begin the process of becoming a patron:
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDLIBRARY/bulletins/31f77cb
14) JAWS Scripts for the Vocaster Hub | Hartgen Consultancy
For those people who have a FocusRite Vocaster one or two product, you will have noticed that you need to use the software management tool Vocaster Hub. This allows you to control many aspects of your device for hosts, guests and general settings:
https://www.hartgen.org/vocasterhub
15) How to Use Your Smartphone to Cope With Hearing Loss | Wired
From live transcriptions to sound filtering, here's how you can benefit from features on Android and Apple devices:
https://www.wired.com/story/smartphone-features-deaf-hard-of-hearing/
16) Everything New With Siri and Dictation in iOS 16
This guide outlines everything that's new with Siri, plus details on the updates to Dictation:
https://www.macrumors.com/guide/ios-16-siri/
17) Self-Directed Digital Accessibility Courses Now Available From Where It's AT — Assistive Technology Blog — Maryland Department of Disabilities
Two courses on digital accessibility are now live. These courses, provided through the AT3 Center, are FREE for you to take. The first course focuses on Accessible Web Page Design & Content. The second is Web Accessibility Testing: Basic Course. Additional courses are also in the works. Learn more about the courses, how to register and earning credentials at:
http://www.equipmentlink.org/blog/?p=5095
18) 9 Ways to Fix a Bluetooth Audio Delay in Windows 11
There is nothing worse than delayed audio, especially when it comes from Bluetooth hardware you've spent a fortune on. Typically, this issue lies with the operating system, not the hardware, and Windows 11 users are more prone to experiencing it:
https://www.makeuseof.com/windows-11-bluetooth-delay-fix/
19) For NVDA Users Who Use Add-ons: Release of Add-on Updater and Windows App Essentials 22.08
After weeks of hard work I'm delighted to announce the immediate release of Add-on Updater and Windows App Essentials 22.08. Add-on Updater 22.08 is a major update, while Windows App Essentials 22.08 is a minor release filled with bug fixes. For now you must download these releases manually (I have queued these add-ons for distribution on community add-ons website):
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/2390
20) Review: The Joule Oven Air Fryer Pro by Breville | Wired
Breville's new countertop air fryer oven can be controlled by a mobile app. Unlike with many other connected appliances, that's a good thing:
https://www.wired.com/review/breville-joule-oven-air-fryer-pro/
21) Microsoft May Be Lowering Windows 11 22H2 Startup Sound Quality
A couple of months ago during a Computex 2022 talk, Microsoft's Panos Panay, the Executive Vice President and Chief Product Officer, reminded everyone that the main driving factor throughout the Windows 11 development process is ensuring the quality of the OS. However, contrary to that, it looks like Microsoft has lowered the bit rate of the Windows 11 Startup sound in the upcoming version 22H2 (Sun Valley 2). The reduction was spotted by Twitter user and prolific leakster Xeno who saw that the audio file for the Startup sound has a reduced bit rate of 1,536 Kbps, down from 2,304 Kbps in last year's build 22463. This change was noticed in Beta Channel build 22621 which has been confirmed to be the RTM release candidate for Windows 11 22H2:
https://www.neowin.net/news/microsoft-may-be-lowering-windows-11-22h2-startup-sound-quality/
22) This Finger Tape Device Helps The Visually Impaired Correct Braille Misprints
The Braille Correction Device is a hand-worn finger tape that, as its name suggests, addresses an issue that not many of us consider — writing in Braille. Publishing in Braille is far more challenging and rare than regular printing, and field tests have shown that it has a very high error rate, making it even more difficult to edit typos and misprints without risking paper damage. The Braille Correction Device tapes over simple, easy-to-fix mistakes, just as correction fluid fixes tiny errors (not entire phrases or paragraphs). The device has earned the Golden Pin Design Award in the Product Design category because it is straightforward, user-friendly, and created to be a totally analog instrument:
https://www.designboom.com/design/finger-tape-device-braille-correct-braille-typos-misprints-07-21-2022/
23) Talk Online Using a Mobile Glove — Communication Via Touch
A device, called the Mobile Lorm Glove, has been developed in a Berlin lab. A glove kitted out with fabric pressure-sensors that functions as a communication and translation device for the deaf-blind. The prototype translates the hand-touch alphabet "Lorm", a common form of communication used by people with both hearing and vision impairment in German speaking countries, into text and vice versa:
https://i-hls.com/archives/115182
24) Google Pixel 6A Released For Global Pre-Order
https://store.google.com/product/pixel_6a?hl=en-US
25) All the New Features Coming to Your Mac This Fall
Apple has given a guided tour of MacOS 13, which is nicknamed Ventura. Here's what to expect from Stage Manager, Messages, and more:
https://www.wired.com/story/apple-ventura-macos-13-preview/
26) National Braille Press: Designing Documents for Appearance: Using a Screen Reader to Create Eye-Catching Newsletters, Flyers, Certificates, and More | In Braille (1 vol.), BRF, DAISY, or Word: $14.00
Technology writer Judy Dixon explores how to make visually-appealing documents using Microsoft Word, JAWS, and NVDA. Coverage includes basic design considerations such as balance, contrast, consistency, and color; formatting options such as fonts, text alignment, tables, headings, columns, and borders; visual elements such as text boxes, shapes, SmartArt, and WordArt; creating and modifying styles and templates; checking your formatting; sharing your work online; and much more. Read the table of contents and order the book here:
https://www.nbp.org/ic/nbp/DESIGN-DOCS.html
➜ Press Releases and Other News
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Press Release or Other News item for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or locate "Tidbit Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) The Unexpected Star Of NASA's Webb Images — The Alt Text Descriptions
A team in Baltimore was responsible for the words that made the stunning photos accessible to everyone:
https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2022/07/20/nasa-images-accessible-text/
2) Accessibility in Astronomy
As a follow up to "Making Astronomy Accessible For Blind And Visually Impaired Astronomers", one of the people interviewed has written in explaining their involvement and giving some more detail about the interview:
https://museumsenses.org/accessibility-in-astronomy/
3) Am I an Idiot for Wanting a Dumber Phone?
Wired's spiritual advice columnist offers counsel to a reader overwhelmed by apps, dings, and beeps:
https://www.wired.com/story/am-i-an-idiot-for-wanting-a-dumber-phone/
4) Tactile Features Included In Currency For Visually Impaired Persons: Reserve Bank of India
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Monday told the Bombay High Court it has included several tactile features in currency notes for the visually impaired:
https://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/tactile-features-included-in-currency-for-visually-impaired-persons-rbi-122072500822_1.html
5) Diving Into Android, A Journey Of Rediscovery | The Thoughts and Ramblings of Steve
As those of you who may have followed this blog for a while probably know, every few years or so, I generally switch my primary mobile operating system between iOS and Android:
https://steves.life/2022/07/24/diving-into-android-a-journey-of-rediscovery/
6) Creative Options To Help Your Website Be More Accessible To Disabled Individuals
In this fast-paced world we live in, people consume information in various ways. Whether it's by listening to the radio, watching YouTube videos or scrolling through pages online, there is one thing we know for sure — information must be made available to everybody regardless of where they are in life's journey:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/theyec/2022/07/21/creative-options-to-help-your-website-be-more-accessible-to-disabled-individuals/?sh=45751ffa30cd
7) 'Endless Potential': Ireland's First Dedicated Radio Station Launches For Visually Impaired Listeners
Ireland's first radio station for blind and vision-impaired listeners has launched this week — finally addressing a gap in broadcasting services that's stood for over a century:
https://www.irishexaminer.com/lifestyle/people/arid-40922342.html
8) How a Transit App for the Blind Could Revolutionize How Everyone Rides
A groundbreaking new technology aimed at making every inch of the transit network accessible to people with visual impairments could also help dismantle one of the steepest barriers that many Americans face when they first try to use a shared mode: navigating the labyrinthine underground landscapes that GPS can't reach. And it's coming to U.S. transit networks:
https://usa.streetsblog.org/2022/07/21/how-a-transit-app-for-the-blind-could-revolutionize-how-everyone-rides/
9) She Fought On Behalf Of Her Blind Son. Now BUSD Will Make Online Learning Tools More Accessible
The National Federation of the Blind hopes a settlement the mother reached with BUSD will become a blueprint for other school districts:
https://www.berkeleyside.org/2022/07/21/busd-lawsuit-students-disabilities-accessibility-technology
10) VR Is Here to Stay. It's Time to Make It Accessible
The platform is relatively new — which means now is the opportunity to advocate for all players:
https://www.wired.com/story/virtual-reality-accessibility-disabilities/
11) Steps To Improve Digital Accessibility At Your Institution
Why is this relevant to education institutions? A recent report by the Central Digital & Data Office (CDDO) on compliance with the digital accessibility regulations for public sector websites and mobile apps identified accessibility issues on nearly all the websites tested:
https://www.timeshighereducation.com/campus/steps-improve-digital-accessibility-your-institution
12) 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/
13) Morgan Stanley, Ally Financial Class Actions Claim Websites Not Accessible To Blind, Visually Impaired
Who: Alexandra Hobbs filed separate class action lawsuits against Ally Financial Inc. and Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC. Why: Hobbs claims Ally Financial and Morgan Stanley have failed to design, construct and maintain their websites in a way that would make them fully accessible to individuals who are blind or visually impaired:
https://topclassactions.com/disability-class-action-lawsuit/morgan-stanley-ally-financial-class-actions-claim-websites-not-accessible-to-blind-visually-impaired/
➜ Surveys
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related survey for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-survey or locate "Survey Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) Survey Research On Data Sonification | Converting Quantitative Ocean Data Into Sounds To Improve Accessibility To Non-Visual Learners
Close Date: August 4th 2022 | We are a group of researchers working to make authentic scientific data accessible to blind and visually impaired learners through sonification. In this pilot & feasibility study funded by the National Science Foundation Advancing Informal STEM Learning program (NSF AISL #2115751) we will leverage existing curated ocean datasets, known as "Data Nuggets", from the NSF-funded Ocean Observatories Initiative to produce and evaluate the feasibility of using integrated auditory displays to communicate tiered learning objectives of oceanographic principles in informal learning environments (ILEs). We are seeking feedback on the sonic foundations we have identified for each of the Data Nuggets being explored in this project:
https://gatech.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_baec3AHB49Ct7BY
2) APH Surveys Page
Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
3) Audible Vision Baseline Survey
This baseline survey aims to understand how assistive technology users conduct certain activities:
https://bit.ly/Audiblevision
4) Audible Vision App Survey
This survey aims to understand how assistive technology users use the Audible Vision app:
https://bit.ly/AudibleVisionForm2
5) NVDA Satisfaction Survey 2022
Nonvisual Desktop Access (NVDA) is asking users to complete a short satisfaction survey. It is at:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe-nr8XMipBx8jrXBTK7M_pxsw7GQR11Vt9E8VG52fK7op15Q/viewform
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Podcast Episode for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-podcast-episode or locate "Podcast Episode Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina Podcast: Clusiv
July 12th 2022 | Luke Simianer and I (Steve Cook) recorded a podcast about his company Clusiv! This podcast can now be found using your favorite podcast platform by searching for the National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina podcast. Be sure and listen and contact Luke if you have any further questions. "Clusiv is the world's first accessible e-learning platform built for & by people who are blind or visually impaired. We solve the global problem of blind inclusion in the workforce and society as a whole by empowering the blind learner through accessible education and up-skilling."
https://anchor.fm/national-federation-of-the-blind-of-south-carolina/episodes/Clusive-e1lga6g
2) Creating a Braille Sefer Torah | Hadley Presents: A Conversation with the Experts
July 22nd 2022 | Rabbi Lenny Sarko joins us to talk about how his vision loss journey led him to create a first-of-its-kind braille Sefer Torah that people around the country can access:
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/creating-braille-sefer-torah
3) Mosen at Large Episode 189: Giving Public Evidence On School For The Blind Abuse, More On Ableist Language, And A Comprehensive Demonstration Of The Vocaster Two Audio Interface From Focusrite
4) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 85: Security, Screen-Lock, Find My Device, Etc.
July 24th 2022 | In this podcast, we talk about: Google Pixel being released for order. In the "Android Basic" segment, we discussed the "Security, Smart Lock, Google Protect, Find My Device," as found in the "System Settings" of the Pixel and "Stock Android" phones and compared it to what it is like on a Samsung phone. This podcast can be found at:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqqtLrWPkI6YGC_P_Z1ARR5C
5) Blind Abilities Podcast Episode 871: Tech Abilities: Bunnies, Elephants and Rabbits, BATA Bada Bing Bada Boom. Clusiv, PC/Mac, Twitter Alt Text, Back Tap, Zoom Invites and more Tech Tidbits and News
July 25th 2022 | Serina, Callie and Jeff cool down in the Blind Abilities Studio and dive into Clusiv, PC/Mac, Google Workspace, Fruit Freshness and expiration dates. Twitter's Alt Text reminder launched and a lot more Tech Tidbits and news from around the scorching planet Earth. Hopefully, you are staying cool and enjoying this latest episode of Tech Abilities. Here is a list of some of the topics and links mentioned in the show: Is Clusiv the answer to Vocational Rehab? | A Twitter test will remind you to add alt text to images. | Braille Berries and freshness and Expiration in your home. | Bringing on the PC for Microsoft and Google Suites. | Sharing Zoom Links through the Calendar. | Back Tap Double Tap | Job Insights is Back! | Bose SoundLink Revolve 2 Speaker | Sony Bluetooth Headphones WH-1000XM4 | TV mount or not?
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7475
6) Eyes on Success Episode 2230: Encore of 1907 Prosthetic Eyes and Anaplastology
July 27th 2022 | Barbara Spohn-Lillo is the owner and founder of Prosthetic Illusions which develops custom prostheses for various body parts including eyes. Both she and her daughter Chelsea Lillo, with whom she works, are anaplastologists and ocularists. Join hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey as they discuss how these prostheses are made and cared for.
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202230.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
✍ Submit your adaptive technology-related Webinar, Training Course or Event for consideration within this section using this form: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/submit-event or locate "Webinar / Training Course Submission Form" within the main menu of the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) ACB Community Event: Ten JAWS Power Tips to Increase Productivity | Freedom Scientific
July 28th 2022 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Discover ten JAWS power tips for increasing productivity when navigating apps and completing tasks. American Council of the Blind. To request an invitation, email community@acb.org 📧️.
2) SuperNova Everyday Essential Webinar: Excel at Excel - Making And Presenting PowerPoints — Creation Tips And Using Connect & View For Presentations
August 3rd 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Watch the recordings at your leisure or participate live every Tuesday at:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/en-us/supernova-everyday-essentials
3) Supporting the Next Billion Users: Personalization & the Web
August 9th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenter: Matthew Atkinson, Senior Accessibility Engineer at TPGi, and co-chair of the W3C's Accessible Platform Architectures (APA) working group. Content must be understandable to be accessible. The W3C is working on standards that will help you empower people who may struggle to understand your content and interfaces. In the future, the web will adapt to users' needs. Learn how to use (with technical examples) and shape these exciting emerging developments. Register today:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-august-9-at-12pm-et-supporting-the-next-billion-users-personalization-the-web/
4) NaviLens and Apple air Tags | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
August 13th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Labeling and tracking just got a whole lot easier! Learn how to use these exciting new products. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
5) Create Inclusive Customer Experiences: The Basics of Kiosk Accessibility
August 17th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenters: Laura Boniello Miller and Traci Murray, Kiosk Accessibility Experts. Creating inclusive and usable experiences does not only apply to your company website or application but also includes digital interfaces one may encounter at a restaurant, healthcare facility, airport, or movie theater, to name a few. More organizations are adopting self-service kiosk technologies to improve their customers' experience in areas such as self-check-in kiosks, self-service lockers, and escape rooms. However, as recent lawsuits suggest, many of these "out of the box" kiosks are not inclusive or usable by people with disabilities. This webinar is focused on helping teams think about creating more accessible and inclusive customer experiences from website to in-person self-serve kiosk engagements. Join Laura Boniello Miller & Traci Murray for this introduction to kiosk accessibility as they discuss the basics of what kiosk deployers should consider before launching their kiosks into the field:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-august-17-at-12pm-et-create-inclusive-customer-experiences-the-basics-of-kiosk-accessibility/
6) Pixel Phone | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
September 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Has Android bridged the gap with Apple with this remarkable new device? All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
7) Blindness & Diabetes Webinar: Dexcom vs Freestyle Libre | Accessible Pharmacy Services For The Blind
September 23rd 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Blindness and Diabetes Webinar: Dexcom vs Freestyle Libre. Please join Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind and University of Pennsylvania's Diabetes Education Center as we compare Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) devices available to our blind, deafblind, and low vision patients living with diabetes. We will be discussing differences between Dexcom and Freestyle Libre as well as their accessibility features. This webinar will have captioning and a live ASL interpreter. If you are unable to attend, please register to receive the webinar audio and video via email:
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/blindness-diabetes-webinar-dexcom-vs-freestyle-libre/
8) iOS 16 Review And Editing Voice Memos | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
October 1st 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Every year we look for accessibility improvements in our i-devices. See what is new in this latest version of the Apple operating system. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
9) AT Gifts for the Holidays | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Our annual look at gadgets and gizmos that will make your holiday season a successful one. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
10) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
December 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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
✍ List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5.00 USD. Fill out this short form to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-buy-sell-trade or learn more on the Top Tech Tidbits website.
1) FOR SALE: One Focus 40, 5th Generation Braille Display
Listing Date: 7/21/2022 | Price: $1,825.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Selling a Brand New Freedom Scientific Vispero Focus 40 Blue 5th Generation Braille display and notetaker in retail box with all its new accessories including all software and cords and new premium leather carrying case. Text me anytime. | Contact: Chris via email at: cs567eml@gmail.com 📧️ or by text at: (225) 307-0008 📱️. |
2) FOR SALE: One Focus 40, 5th Generation
Listing Date: 7/21/2022 | Price: $1,500.00 USD | Condition: Gently used. | Description: In excellent condition. Works perfectly. Includes leather carrying case and strap, adapter and cord, and user's manual in braille. Asking $1500 or best offer. I will ship to U.S. or Canada. I accept PayPal. Thanks. | Contact: Roger via email at: roger@roger.ca 📧️ or by phone at: (519) 280-1643 📱️. |
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
➜ 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/
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Combine Learning And Gaming For A Fun Braille Adventure With Polly!
APH and Thinkerbell Labs are excited to introduce Polly, complete with customizable UEB lessons, songs, games, and stories! Join our waiting list to know when Polly is available:
https://www.aph.org/polly-wait-list/
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: Who Says Sales End After Conventions?
3 item Talking Medical Bundle: $120. Evo 12 Stereo Daisy Book Player and Entertainment Center; 6 voices; $289. Evo 10 Player; also with Internet radio and Ivona voices; sale, $199. New Titanium Telescopic Locking Canes with Glide and Roller Tips; 50 and 54 inches; $50, 60 inch for pre-order; $70. Several new hands free phone pouches, and cases for the Lyriq scanner and the Mantis. New Self Cleaning Dog Brushes, too. For more information, contact Barry Scheur at (617) 969-7500 📱️ / bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️ or Kae at (781) 286-1696 📱️ / guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️. We Will Help You Buy What You Can Use — Not What They Try To Sell You!
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, affordable, 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
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: Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
➜ Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore: Touch Tomorrow in Today's Products
Serving blind people since 1999, we're a family-owned, forward-thinking company offering both tried-and-true and exciting new products for blind and low vision consumers. We design and carry self-voicing educational software, Braille supplies, talking gadgets, adapted household items, tactile card and board games, audible toys and gift ideas. Passionate about innovation, we've also created dozens of products from scratch when a suitable solution did not exist. Shop online at http://www.braillebookstore.com/ and enjoy fast, free shipping.
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: http://www.braillebookstore.com/ 🌐
Phone (Toll Free): (800) 987-1231 📱️
Fax (Toll Free): (800) 985-1231 ░
Email: Sales@BrailleBookstore.com 📧️
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time.
About: Welcome to Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore. We have been supplying products to blind people and their families since 1999. We offer thousands of Braille books, toys, games, kitchen aids, and talking products. We have unbeatable prices, fast, free shipping, and great customer service! We have tons of Braille books and cool products to choose from; so grab a cup of coffee, relax, and we'll give you a quick tour:
Products:
➜ Timekeeping
➜ Housewares
➜ On The Go
➜ Low Vision Products
➜ Toys and Games
➜ Gift Shop
➜ Braille Workshop
➜ Braille Bookstore
➜ Greeting Cards
➜ Copy Center
➜ Computer Lab
➜ Popular Products
➜ New Products
If you need some fresh ideas or have questions, you can also check out our Shopping Guides.
Sponsor: Fable
➜ Advance Your Career With Fable Pathways' Free, Accessible Online Learning
Fable Pathways helps you gain the skills that you need to work in the tech sector with a free, accessible, and on-demand program. Learn from industry leaders with disabilities to take your career to the next level, like Kelly Ford, Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, who introduces GitHub and VS Code using a screen reader. Spend less time and energy trying to access courses with your assistive technology and focus on the content that matters to you, with Fable Pathways' accessible platform. Sign up today!
https://tinyurl.com/25jwux3p
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: https://fablepathways.com/ 🌐
Email: community@makeitfable.com 📧️
Phone: (888) 212-3532 📱️ Extension 810
About: Just like curb cuts help everyone get on and off sidewalks, designing digital products with accessibility in mind helps make the internet more accessible for everyone. Fable is an accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities. Fable connects people with disabilities to accessibility managers, user researchers, designers, and developers to build incredible and accessible user experiences.
Opportunities:
➜ Fable Pathways: Fable Pathways is a free skill development program for people with disabilities interested in working in the tech sector. Sign up to take your career to the next level. Courses include "Getting started in web development" taught by Kelly Ford, a screen reader user, and Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, and "Becoming a manager" taught by Fable's Head of Accessibility Innovation, Kate Kalcevich. Instructors are subject matter experts in their fields and have lived experience with disability. Pathways courses are free, self-paced and assistive-technology-friendly. Sign up now at https://fablepathways.com/.
➜ Fable's Community of Accessibility Testers: Work from home to contribute to real changes in digital accessibility and make the internet a more accessible place for everyone. Ever leave a website because it was too hard to navigate? Because it was missing button labels? Because it didn't respond to voice commands? Us too. Our community of testers who use assistive technologies work from home and contribute to real changes in digital accessibility with recognizable brands. Earn money to share your feedback on websites and apps of your favorite brands and work with companies that care. No experience required and no resume required. Fable is looking for assistive technology users in the USA and Canada to work the hours that they want, from the comfort of their own homes. Learn more at https://fablepathways.com/community/.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ Join the Dolphin Friends Program
Dolphin Friends supports, recognizes, and rewards the great work that charities and sight loss societies do to support the people in their community who are visually impaired. Members receive free Dolphin software, staff training on GuideConnect and SuperNova, computing accessories and a useful resource pack to help you advise your service users on Dolphin assistive technology. Join Dolphin Friends:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/join-dolphin-friends-us
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Sponsor: Clusiv
➜ Looking For Blind Job-Seekers Wanting To Advance Their Salaries, Careers And Digital Accessibility For The Blind
Are you interested in learning new tech skills and working remotely while earning a competitive salary? At Clusiv.io we have created the world's first digitally accessible e-Learning platform built by the blind, and built for the blind. Visit the link provided and request Clusiv through your Vocational Rehab counselor for lifetime access to our e-Learning platform with courses such as Business Applications, JAWS, and more:
https://clusiv.io/
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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 from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Control the climate of your home independently! The VIP 3000 is a universal heating — cooling talking thermostat This accessible digital thermostat is specifically designed to offer audio playback of indoor temperature, temperature settings and programming instructions so blind and visually impaired users can independently & precisely manage their indoor comfort. Don't over pay. Read more at:
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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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
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 Android TM 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.
Your Name Here
2 of 18 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are 2 of 18 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, July 21, 2022 - Volume 868
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.
Subscribers: 7,357 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email. 127 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Chameleon 2.0 Update Features Text to Speech!
The Chameleon is a sleek, 20-cell refreshable braille display with a Perkins-style keyboard that connects to multiple devices via Bluetooth and includes an editor, book reader, calculator, clock, and file manager. Text-to-speech and audio support are now available on the Chameleon 20! With text-to-speech, users will benefit from the many customizable options such as: include read after pan, read while typing, read while deleting, a read all command (Space + G), and read text under cursor. Reading text under the cursor allows you to quickly familiarize yourself with new words and braille contractions. Each option can be toggled off and on and the whole feature can be quickly disabled with a hotkey (Space + Previous thumb key) to avoid any distractions. Audio support allows users to play unprotected DAISY files, increase and decrease playback speed, fast forward and rewind, and navigate throughout the book using the formatting of the file or user-created bookmarks. Learn more at:
https://www.aph.org/product/chameleon-20/?utm_source=Conference+Handout&utm_medium=Brochure&utm_campaign=2022_Conferences
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Envision App, Now Free For Everyone (10.1% of all clicks.)
A practical guide to what these changes mean for you:
https://www.letsenvision.com/blog/envision-app-now-free-for-everyone
B.) 8 New Windows 11 Keyboard Shortcuts You Need To Know (7.6% of all clicks.)
A few of these are extra nifty:
https://www.pcworld.com/article/547654/8-new-windows-11-keyboard-shortcuts.html
C.) Mycroft AI Launches Mimic 3 TTS (5.5% of all clicks.)
Mycroft AI, creators of an open-source speech technology platform, has released the Mimic 3 text-to-speech (TTS) engine with more than two dozen languages and 100 voice sets. It can run completely offline on low-end systems:
https://www.speechtechmag.com/Articles/News/Speech-Technology-News/Mycroft-AI-Launches-Mimic-3-TTS-153799.aspx
D.) Siri Gets A Boost in iOS 16 (4.3% of all clicks.)
Siri's iOS 16 changes are all about making your iPhone easier to use:
https://coolblindtech.com/siri-gets-boost-in-ios-16/
E.) APH Is Ready for a Braille Revolution (3.9% of all clicks.)
You undoubtedly heard the big splash in 2017, when we introduced our plans for the Graphiti, a dynamic, multi-level tactile display. All of us here vividly remember the day of the solar eclipse that year, when people who are visually impaired were able to touch the sun with their hands using the device. But through that development process, we learned that we can — and must — do even more. Graphiti would have been used side-by-side with a braille textbook. But now, in partnership with HumanWare, we're developing what we consider the holy grail of Braille: a single tablet device that provides both braille text and tactile graphics, all in one:
https://www.aph.org/aph-is-ready-for-a-braille-revolution/
2) Two Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Packages Currently Available
I am very happy to report that our waiting list has been cleared and there are currently two sponsorship packages available to any potential Sponsor that might wish to secure one. So if you've been thinking about joining us, now is the perfect opportunity. If you're not sure if Tidbits is the right fit for your business or organization I encourage you to consider a quarterly trial. After 3 months of exposure in Tidbits you can decide for yourself the true value of a Sponsorship position. The first two potential sponsors to reach out to publisher@toptechtidbits.com will be provided with links to secure a package. You will be able to choose between our $325 per quarter option or our $1200 per year option. Please note that you will only have 72 hours to secure your package by paying for it before it will be offered to the next potential sponsor on our waiting list, if there is a waiting list at the time. When there is not, we will always keep your invoices active until there is. Please consider joining us. Become one of the 18 industry leaders that support the world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology while enjoying some really incredible benefits:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Publisher Updates for July 21st 2022
Updates this week include: (1) Top Tech Tidbits Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisements Now Available to Tidbits Readers Anywhere in the World (2) How Do I Get My Email Newsletter Featured In Top Tech Tidbits? (3) I Submit Adaptive Technology-Related Sales Information All The Time But None Of Them Ever Get Published. Why Is That? (4) Premium Subscriber Updates (5) Don't Forget. Anyone Can Submit A Tidbit:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/100.html
4) Top Tech Tidbits Editor Alex Marositz To Compete In The 2022 Beep Baseball World Series in Beaumont, Texas | July 24th through 31st 2022
Please join all of us here at Tidbits in congratulating one of our star editors for making it to the 2022 Beep Baseball World Series. That's right. Top Tech Tidbits Editor Alex Marositz will be unable to contribute to next week's issue because he will be in Beaumont, Texas competing to win the 2022 Beep Baseball World Series. An achievement that we all thought was incredibly awesome. So please join us in wishing Alex and his team, the San Gabriel Valley Panthers Beep Baseball Team, the very best of luck as they attempt to cement their place in Beep Baseball history:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/about.html#stephen-alex-marositz
5) JAWS Power Tip: Using Speech on Demand
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/99.html
6) Dolphin SuperNova Power Tip: Adding A Temporary Place Marker to a Web Page
Courtesy of Dolphin Computer Access:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/101.html
7) Tips For Soup and Salad | Hadley Dining Out Series
Learn a few tips to enjoy soup and salad with skill, no matter what's on the menu - and no matter your level of vision:
https://hadley.edu/workshops/dining-out-series/tips-for-soup-and-salad
8) A Father's Quest for an Accessible Game Controller | Wired
After months of writing hardware companies and developers for help, Andreas Karlsson finally found a hero in retro controller maker 8BitDo:
https://www.wired.com/story/andreas-karlsson-accessible-controller-8bitdo/
9) Sources for Adapted Equipment Resources | TeachingVisuallyImpaired.com
Individuals who are blind or visually impaired will typically need instructional and material adaptations to access recreational activities. Adaptive equipment can allow students who are blind or visually impaired to participate in recreational activities:
https://www.teachingvisuallyimpaired.com/adapted-recreation-equipment-resources.html
10) Check Out the New Remote Incident Manager from Pneuma Solutions
Take complete control of a distant computer over an organization's network or the Internet, as if you were sitting at that computer. Beta test it now. Excellent for corporate technical support or helping out a friend. This software may be used by blind and sighted users alike:
https://pneumasolutions.com/remote-incident-manager/
11) Hartgen Consultancy Now Using Remote Incident Manager When Providing Remote Technical Support
As a company we are now moving to a new method of providing Technical Support and training to customers. Beginning July 13th 2022 we have been using the Remote Incident Manager application from Pneuma Solutions. This greatly assists us in providing excellent Technical Support together with making it far easier to diagnose and fix problems, particularly if JAWS is needing to be restarted multiple times which is often the case with complex installations:
https://hartgen.org/rim
12) My Experience Taking The Covid-19 Home Accessible Test | Scott Davert | Tech-VI List
I had to take a Covid test over the weekend and figured I would share my experience. Since I do not have any vision, I'm not able to provide feedback from that perspective. First, the box that arrives contained
2 tests:
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/2356
13) What Are the Top 6 Problem Spots for Blind Testers in Accessibility Testing?
Here is an article on barriers blind testers may face when checking for accessibility issues on the web:
https://equalentry.com/accessibility-problems-blind-testers/
14) Forza Horizon 5 Introduces Sign Language Support Throughout In-Game Scenes
A free, in-game update will include American Sign Language (ASL) and British Sign Language (BSL) support for in-game cinematics. The update includes actors from the deaf and hard of hearing community signing in parts of the story between driving, such as jumping into challenges, getting ready for a race, meeting other players, and racing across Mexico while planes fly overhead:
https://news.microsoft.com/features/forza-horizon-5-introduces-sign-language-support-throughout-in-game-scenes/
15) 15 Tips To Make Meetings More Accessible For Everyone
Here is an article on making your online presentations and meetings more accessible:
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/15-tips-for-more-accessible-meetings
16) Intel Supports Hands-Free UCL MotionInput Software Which Promises More 'Equitable Computing' For All
Developed in collaboration with Microsoft and IBM, UCL Motion Input software was built by students at the University College London's (UCL) Computer Science department. When paired with a webcam, the software enables people to control their PC in a hands-free way:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/stevenaquino/2022/07/12/intels-hands-free-ucl-motioninput-software-promises-more-equitable-computing-for-all/?sh=4841a1392c19
17) NVDA 2022.2 Released
NV Access is pleased to announce that version 2022.2 of NVDA, the free screen reader for Microsoft Windows, is now available for download. We encourage all users to upgrade to this version. Java and braille are among some of the improvements:
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/nvda-2022-2/
18) Training Courses for Accessibility Professionals from Accessibility Unraveled
Accessibility Unraveled is offering training courses which may be of value to accessibility professionals. Learn more about them as well as the courses they offer here:
https://www.accessibilityunraveled.com/online-accessibility-training-courses/
19) Fast Highlighting Using Two Keyboard Shortcuts In Word
There are two keyboard shortcuts to highlight text in Word, for some reason Microsoft has hidden the main one and the alternative has an annoying inconsistency:
https://office-watch.com/2022/fast-highlighting-two-shortcuts-word/
20) NV Access In Process for July 15th 2022
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-15-july-2022/
21) White Cane Freedom March Song on the NFB Website | MP3
https://nfb.org/images/nfb/audio/nfb_songs/16-the-white-cane-freedom-march.mp3
22) Did You Know? Shift+Ctrl+Alt+Win+L Opens LinkedIn on Windows
When you press Ctrl+Alt+Shift+Win+L in Windows, your default browser opens and loads the LinkedIn social networking website. But why? We'll get to the bottom of this mystery:
https://www.howtogeek.com/816348/did-you-know-shiftctrlaltwinl-opens-linkedin-on-windows/
23) Free Tutorial For Using Pro Tools With VoiceOver on The Mac Now Available
The author of this tutorial will be a guest on episode 188 of the Mosen at Large podcast, which is scheduled to be released the weekend of July 16th 2022. You can download the tutorial from the following link:
https://ptaccess.github.io/
24) How To Make The Most Of Your Windows PC's Accessibility Features
Windows 11 is the most inclusive version of recent Windows operating systems. It's much easier to find and operate the accessibility features in this version than in its predecessor, Windows 10:
https://www.theverge.com/23184718/accessibility-windows-pc-microsoft-how-to
25) Discussion Group For Those Who Wish to Ask Questions or Provide Help to Other Users of the Hable One Keyboard
You can visit the group's page at: https://groups.io/g/hablecommunity. To subscribe, send email to: HableCommunity+subscribe@groups.io 📧️
26) Samsung Reveals New Accessibility Update For The Galaxy Watch
Samsung announced that its forthcoming One UI Watch 4.5 update will add new accessibility features to its Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic smartwatches. The settings will essentially allow users to adjust audio and visual settings, including colour adjustments and rebalancing stereo audio:
https://coolblindtech.com/samsung-reveals-new-accessibility-update-for-the-galaxy-watch/
27) The Volunteer-Run Bots That Make Twitter More Accessible
In a recent viral photo from the popular Twitter account Bodega Cats, a black cat is peering into the camera from its perch behind a shelf at a corner store. Surrounded by hanging packages of Sour Patch Kids, Haribo gummy bears, and other brightly-colored treats, the cat is invisible except for its two watchful green eyes, narrowed slightly and glaring from the shadows. There's no text in the post, but the joke is obvious: choose your snack wisely. The picture has been liked and retweeted thousands of times. But for people using screen readers, as many blind or low vision users do, the content is imperceptible. The person running the account hasn't added alternative text — or alt text — to the photo:
https://www.theverge.com/23188769/twitter-alt-text-bots-accessibility-screen-readers
28) How To Make The Most Of Android's Accessibility Features
Accessibility features aren't exactly the most well-known pieces of the modern smartphone puzzle. And yet, they might be the pieces with the greatest potential to make a meaningful impact on someone's life. Here's a tour of Android's most significant accessibility features and what they can do for you:
https://www.theverge.com/23170157/android-accessibility-google-how-to
29) How to Take Advantage of Windows 11's Improved Accessibility Tools
Windows 11 contains various accessibility improvements compared to Windows 10, but the most noticeable is the name change. The feature set known as "Ease of Access" in Windows 10 was transformed into Accessibility in the the latest Windows version. Microsoft even changed the icon into a human-shaped one, which is the recognized Accessibility icon in most parts of the world:
https://www.maketecheasier.com/windows-accessibility-tools/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) As of July 16th 2022 The FCC (Federal Communications Commission) Mandates the Ability to Text the Suicide Line 988
https://www.fcc.gov/988-suicide-and-crisis-lifeline
2) American Foundation for the Blind Announces Third Access and Engagement Report, Observing Impact of COVID-19 as Students with Visual Impairments Returned to In-Person Education
The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) has announced the release of the third Access and Engagement research report, which examines the continued negative impact of systemic and COVID-19-specific issues on the education of students who are blind or have low vision. The report is based on focus groups and short surveys with families of these students and the professionals who serve them as the 2020-2021 school year concluded:
https://www.afb.org/press-room/press-release-archive/announces-access-engagement-three?N423JUL1EM1=&emci=91add968-1c02-ed11-b47a-281878b83d8a&emdi=1eab88e7-ae03-ed11-b47a-281878b83d8a&ceid=8678256
3) Joshua Miele — Building Technology & Public Awareness For Better Accessibility
Here is an excellent interview with Dr. Joshua A. Miele. He was awarded the MacArthur Fellowship for his accessibility technology that assists blind and low-sighted people to navigate the physical and digital world. Dr. Miele currently is Amazon's principal accessibility researcher:
https://abilitymagazine.com/joshua-miele-building-technology-public-awareness-for-better-accessibility/
4) For Blind Internet Users, the Fix Can Be Worse Than the Flaws
Companies say their A.I.-powered tools are the best way to fix accessibility problems online, but many blind people find they make websites harder to use:
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/07/13/technology/ai-web-accessibility.html
5) Misuse of Twitter's Alt Text Feature Draws Criticism From Accessibility Advocates
Twitter is testing pop-ups that remind users to add appropriate image descriptions as misuse of the alt text feature prevails:
https://www.wsj.com/articles/misuse-of-twitters-alt-text-feature-draws-criticism-from-accessibility-advocates-11657879200
6) Blind Folks Live Full Lives Too
Blindness is one of the most, if not the most, misunderstood type of disability. The general masses have their own pre-conceived notions about the blind people that they firmly believe to be true without even getting in touch with a blind person:
https://kiss951.com/2022/07/18/blind-folks-live-full-lives-too/
7) My Ideas For Improving Alt Text Features On Social Media | Veroniiiica
I was quoted in the Wall Street Journal talking about how I would improve existing alt text features on Twitter and other social media. While the actual quote is only a sentence long, I have many other thoughts on improving alt text features on social media, and today I will be sharing my extended thoughts on how alt text features can evolve to further benefit Blind and low vision users on social media:
https://veroniiiica.com/2022/07/15/improving-alt-text-features-on-social-media/
8) Baylor Chemist Leads $1.3 Million Research Project to Make Chemistry Labs and Concepts Accessible to Blind and Low Vision Students
National Institutes of Health funds a first-of-its-kind effort, led by chemistry/biochemistry professor Bryan Shaw, to provide tools eliminating barriers that exclude students with blindness from pursuing chemistry education and experiences:
https://www.baylor.edu/mediacommunications/news.php?action=story&story=229577
9) Golf Odyssey: Playing Four Holes With Blind Golfer William Pease
William "Bill" Pease walked into the tee box and pushed his white peg into the ground, centering his ball almost perfectly between the stone tees. He stood up and stepped back:
https://www.staugustine.com/story/sports/high-school/golf/2022/07/18/golf-local-blind-golfer-william-pease-offers-peak-inside-blind-golf/10035826002/
10) The Hidden History Of Screen Readers
For decades, blind programmers have been creating the tools their community needs:
https://www.theverge.com/23203911/screen-readers-history-blind-henter-curran-teh-nvda
11) Twitter To Soon Alert Users To Add Alt Texts To Images, Custom-Built TL Also In The Works
In case you upload an image and forget to add alternative text or alt text to it, Twitter is going to alert you soon so as you add it:
https://www.businesstoday.in/technology/news/story/twitter-to-soon-alert-users-to-add-alt-texts-to-images-custom-built-tl-also-in-the-works-341555-2022-07-14
12) Making Astronomy Accessible For Blind And Visually Impaired Astronomers
Today's paper discusses an interview with four people (Dr. Nicolas Bonne, Dr. Cheryl Fogle-Hatch, Dr. Garry Foran, and Dr. Enrique Perez Montero) who are involved with increasing accessibility for people who are blind and visually impaired (BVI) in astronomy. Three of the people interviewed are astronomers or astrophysicists who are blind or visually impaired:
https://astrobites.org/2022/07/17/making-astronomy-accessible-for-blind-and-visually-impaired-astronomers/
13) Envision's Dallas Location Begins Capital Campaign With $6M Donation
The gift is the largest in Envision's history, according to the company that specializes in training and putting to work those who are blind or visually impaired:
https://www.bizjournals.com/wichita/news/2022/07/15/envision-dallas-0715.html
14) Uber Commits to Changes and Pays Millions to Resolve Justice Department Lawsuit for Overcharging People with Disabilities
On July 18th 2022 the Department of Justice filed in court a multi-million-dollar settlement agreement with Uber Technologies Inc. (Uber) to resolve a lawsuit alleging that Uber violated the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Under the agreement, Uber will offer several million dollars in compensation to more than 65,000 Uber users who were charged discriminatory fees due to disability:
https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/uber-commits-changes-and-pays-millions-resolve-justice-department-lawsuit-overcharging-people
15) Mohawk College's Reasons for Canceling Its Much-Needed Accessible Media Production Program Don't Stand Up Under Scrutiny
On June 10, 2022, the AODA Alliance raised serious objections when it learned that Mohawk College, an Ontario Government-funded community college, cancelled its well-regarded Accessible Media Production (AMP) program. That graduate certificate program educates its students on how to create accessible documents, web sites, videos and like media. Ontario needs this one-of-a-kind program, given how far we are lagging in achieving digital accessibility:
https://www.aodaalliance.org/whats-new/mohawk-colleges-reasons-for-cancelling-its-much-needed-accessible-media-production-program-dont-stand-up-under-scrutiny/
16) For the Disabled, Consumer Electronics Aren't There Yet
It's a new world for the differently abled thanks to software patches, but hardware needs to be designed from the beginning with accessibility in mind:
https://www.pcmag.com/opinions/for-the-disabled-consumer-electronics-arent-there-yet
17) Phoenix Sky Harbor Launches Free App To Help Blind, Visually Impaired Travelers
Travelers who are blind or visually impaired and are flying out of Phoenix Sky Harbor have a new app to help make their day a little easier:
https://www.azfamily.com/2022/07/18/phoenix-sky-harbor-launches-free-app-help-blind-visually-impaired-travelers/
18) Camp Abilities In Brockport Helping Visually Impaired Enjoy Sports
The adaptive sports camp opened on the SUNY Brockport campus in 1996. After two years of virtual camp because of the pandemic — this is the 25th year of in-person activities:
https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nys/rochester/human-interest/2022/07/18/camp-abilities-in-brockport-helping-visually-impaired-enjoy-sports
➜ Surveys
1) APH Surveys Page
Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
2) Audible Vision Baseline Survey
This baseline survey aims to understand how assistive technology users conduct certain activities:
https://bit.ly/Audiblevision
3) Audible Vision App Survey
This survey aims to understand how assistive technology users use the Audible Vision app:
https://bit.ly/AudibleVisionForm2
4) NVDA Satisfaction Survey 2022
Nonvisual Desktop Access (NVDA) is asking users to complete a short satisfaction survey. It is at:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe-nr8XMipBx8jrXBTK7M_pxsw7GQR11Vt9E8VG52fK7op15Q/viewform
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 83: Managing Accessibility Settings
July 9th 2022 | This podcast can be found at:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3QiAD-n-6ts&list=PL5iI0uwraRqoZR48RzBJn_olFWk6SiDnY
2) Mosen at Large Episode 188: ACB Says No To braille With A Capital B, And An Extended Interview With Slau Halatyn
3) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 84: What's New in the Final Beta of Android 13
July 16th 2022 | In this podcast, we talk about: (1) The FCC (Federal Communications Commission) mandates the ability to text the suicide line - 988, starting on July 16, 2022. (2) The "Nothing" Phone finally becomes available, although it isn't available in North America. We talk about what's new in the final Beta of Android 13. And start TalkBack Highlights 4 Finger Gesture. This podcast can be found at:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqrglUuRd5_eJkYPWRNR1s6n
4) Eyes on Success Episode 2229: Pet Peeves from Listeners
July 20th 2022 | Episode #2223 of Eyes On Success featured a variety of pet peeves of a blind person navigating in a world primarily designed for and consisting of sighted people. The show elicited lots of responses from listeners who resonated with what they heard. This week hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey share some of the feedback they received:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202229.htm
5) Blind Abilities Podcast Episode 870: The LyrIQ Assistive Reader, The Patriot Pro And The Patriot Viewpoint: Combining The Most State-Of-The-Art Technology With Usability For All Sorts Of Tasks
July 20th 2022 | The Team from Magnifying America which makes the Patriot brand of AT products joined Simon Bonenfant outside the Exhibit Hall at the NFB2022 Convention. John Palmer, President and Founder of Patriot Vision Industries, along with his team give us an overview of the new OCR Scanner, the LyriQ Assistive Reader. This is a camera operated flat folding device that is portable, fast and accurate. Within seconds the LyriQ is reading without fuss about aiming the camera as the design of the LyriQ makes for ease of use and the simple operation is all by design. Listen to the demonstration and audio description of the LyriQ and decide for yourself. The Patriot Pro is overviewed and has the Patriot software baked into an iPad Pro, combining great accessibility and the Patriot software for an incredible experience for low vision users. The Patriot ViewPoint is low vision device that allows one to watch TV, read and write and much more. This wearable device allows for handsfree viewing:
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7470
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) JAWS Power Tips for Increasing Productivity at Work and at Play | Freedom Scientific
July 21st 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Want tips for improving productivity in apps such as Word, Teams, and Edge? Join us for a webinar on JAWS power tips! Register for this webinar, which offers ACVREP credits to those who attend the live webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_OwHsA3AJTMKeedGpAgBNzg
2) ACB Community Event: Schedule a Zoom Meeting Using JAWS | Freedom Scientific
July 21st 2022 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Find out how to schedule events on the Zoom conferencing platform with JAWS. American Council of the Blind. To request an invitation, email community@acb.org 📧️.
3) iBUG Apple Workshop
July 23rd 2022 | 2PM PT, 3PM MT, 4PM CT, 5PM ET, 9PM GMT | You are invited to the upcoming iBUG Apple Workshop which explores all things from the Apple-verse. Join us for this free training session for the latest news/rumors, app demos, and learn more about the accessibility features of Apple products. | Meeting ID: 742 848 6329 | Password: 369978 | 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#success
4) Snap & Read: 5 Essential Supports for Executive Function | Don Johnston
July 26th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Presented By: Stephanie Gilley. Executive function deficits — disorganization, poor time management, difficulty getting started with tasks — can keep bright learners from doing great things. And it can be tough to know how to help! Digital supports can empower students to stay organized, focused, and work independently, both at this point in their lives and in the future. In this webinar, Stephanie Gilley will demonstrate the top 5 tools that support learners with executive functioning difficulties: Read Aloud tools to support focus. Highlighting/Color Overlay/screen masking tool for help with visual tracking. A tool to reduce digital distractions. Note taking tools to help with organization. PDF annotation to help streamline tasks and assignments. Register to attend live or receive a recording:
https://learningtools.donjohnston.com/webinar/snapread-5-essential-supports-for-executive-function/
5) SuperNova Everyday Essential Webinar: Excel at Excel - Creating, Editing, and Reviewing Excel Spreadsheets
July 26th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Watch the recordings at your leisure or participate live every Tuesday at:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/en-us/supernova-everyday-essentials
6) Methods to Navigate Word & Outlook Efficiently with JAWS Using Speech & Braille (ACVREP CE Approved) | Access Ingenuity
July 27th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Many JAWS users may know some features to quickly navigate specific increments and elements such as links, headings, forms, graphics, and tables when using a web browser. However, most do not know that there are similar JAWS features to increase efficiency when navigating Word documents and Outlook emails. Join Rachel Reeves, Marisa Church, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity with Joe McDaniel from Vispero to explore various JAWS Navigation Quick Keys with a browser, Word, and Outlook. It is important to note that this presentation will benefit those who want to know how to work with Navigation Quick Keys using JAWS with either a QWERTY keyboard or a Focus braille display. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: Introduce JAWS Navigation Quick Keys and how they can increase your efficiency when navigating a browser, Word, and Outlook. Understand how to turn on and off Navigation Quick Keys, when you want them on or off, and the JAWS default settings for Quick Keys in different situations. Discover how to learn the Quick Keys in different situations with the JAWS Screen Sensitive help. Explore Quick Key features such as links, headings, forms, tables, misspelled words, comments, track changes, etc. | Meeting ID: 872 7899 0752 | Passcode: 807757 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,87278990752#,,,,*807757# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87278990752?pwd=0bOnQubthYiLE-xJtf_PuOGsnBFL-F.1#success
7) How to Quickly Test Your Website for JAWS Screen Reader Compatibility | TPGi
July 27th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenters: Mike DeSorda, Customer Success Manager, and Al Puzzuoli, Customer Support. 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 quickly 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 JAWS Inspect alongside JAWS (or by itself) for quick and easy screen reader compatibility testing:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-july-27-at-12pm-et-quickly-test-your-website-for-jaws-screen-reader-compatibility/
8) Controlling Your World with Control Bionics from APTAT
July 27th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | APTAT Assistive Technology Training Series
Training Duration: 1 hour. An expanded training including an overview of using the Control Bionics device for communication as well as an environmental control unit. Registration is required. Accommodation requests should be made at least 2 weeks before the event date. We will do our best to coordinate any requests made within 2 weeks of the event, however please be aware we may not be able to honor the request on short notice. Certificate of Attendance is available for live attendees and can be requested during registration. This webinar will be recorded and archived on our YouTube channel: Accessing Potential Through Assistive Technology:
https://rehabalabama.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0scuCupjsrG9DYSokUMLLCB7Ck8WIqePKT
9) Ask Sharky: What Happened at the Association on Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD) Conference? | Freedom Scientific
July 27th 2022 | Join us for details on Vispero activities at the ACB and NFB conventions. Download the Clubhouse app from iOS App Store or Google Play to participate on your mobile device.
10) ACB Community Event: Ten JAWS Power Tips to Increase Productivity | Freedom Scientific
July 28th 2022 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Discover ten JAWS power tips for increasing productivity when navigating apps and completing tasks. American Council of the Blind. To request an invitation, email community@acb.org 📧️.
11) Supporting the Next Billion Users: Personalization & the Web
August 9th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenter: Matthew Atkinson, Senior Accessibility Engineer at TPGi, and co-chair of the W3C's Accessible Platform Architectures (APA) working group. Content must be understandable to be accessible. The W3C is working on standards that will help you empower people who may struggle to understand your content and interfaces. In the future, the web will adapt to users' needs. Learn how to use (with technical examples) and shape these exciting emerging developments. Register today:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-august-9-at-12pm-et-supporting-the-next-billion-users-personalization-the-web/
12) NaviLens and Apple air Tags | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
August 13th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Labeling and tracking just got a whole lot easier! Learn how to use these exciting new products. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
13) Pixel Phone | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
September 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Has Android bridged the gap with Apple with this remarkable new device? All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
14) Blindness & Diabetes Webinar: Dexcom vs Freestyle Libre | Accessible Pharmacy Services For The Blind
September 23rd 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Blindness and Diabetes Webinar: Dexcom vs Freestyle Libre. Please join Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind and University of Pennsylvania's Diabetes Education Center as we compare Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) devices available to our blind, deafblind, and low vision patients living with diabetes. We will be discussing differences between Dexcom and Freestyle Libre as well as their accessibility features. This webinar will have captioning and a live ASL interpreter. If you are unable to attend, please register to receive the webinar audio and video via email:
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/blindness-diabetes-webinar-dexcom-vs-freestyle-libre/
15) iOS 16 Review And Editing Voice Memos | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
October 1st 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Every year we look for accessibility improvements in our i-devices. See what is new in this latest version of the Apple operating system. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
16) AT Gifts for the Holidays | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Our annual look at gadgets and gizmos that will make your holiday season a successful one. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
17) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
December 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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 40, 5th Generation Braille Display
Listing Date: 7/21/2022 | Price: $1,825.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Selling a Brand New Freedom Scientific Vispero Focus 40 Blue 5th Generation Braille display and notetaker in retail box with all its new accessories including all software and cords and new premium leather carrying case. Text me anytime. | Contact: Chris via email at: cs567eml@gmail.com 📧️ or by text at: (225) 307-0008 📱️. |
2) FOR SALE: One Focus 40, 5th Generation
Listing Date: 7/21/2022 | Price: $1,500.00 USD | Condition: Gently used. | Description: In excellent condition. Works perfectly. Includes leather carrying case and strap, adapter and cord, and user's manual in braille. Asking $1500 or best offer. I will ship to U.S. or Canada. I accept PayPal. Thanks. | Contact: Roger via email at: roger@roger.ca 📧️ or by phone at: (519) 280-1643 📱️. |
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Combine Learning And Gaming For A Fun Braille Adventure With Polly!
APH and Thinkerbell Labs are excited to introduce Polly, complete with customizable UEB lessons, songs, games, and stories! Join our waiting list to know when Polly is available:
https://www.aph.org/polly-wait-list/
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: We're Exhibiting at both ACB and NFB Conventions
Barry, Kae, and Debra welcome you to our world of everything leather, dog, and gadget; and our "New" Evo 12 stereo Daisy player with 6 voices, $289; Hermione bottomless leather bag, $65; Titanium telescopic locking canes, $50; Next generation bone conduction headphones, $110; Talking medical bundle, $120; Soft absorbent doggie bathrobes, $30 - $35; Protective doggie winter jackets/raincoats, $30 - $40; Self-cleaning grooming brushes, $15 - $26, and much more! Come find us! For additional information, contact Barry Scheur at (617) 969-7500 📱️ / bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️ or Kae at (781) 286-1696 📱️ / guidelightdogs@gmail.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, affordable, 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
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: Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
➜ Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore: Touch Tomorrow in Today's Products
Serving blind people since 1999, we're a family-owned, forward-thinking company offering both tried-and-true and exciting new products for blind and low vision consumers. We design and carry self-voicing educational software, Braille supplies, talking gadgets, adapted household items, tactile card and board games, audible toys and gift ideas. Passionate about innovation, we've also created dozens of products from scratch when a suitable solution did not exist. Shop online at http://www.braillebookstore.com/ and enjoy fast, free shipping.
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: http://www.braillebookstore.com/ 🌐
Phone (Toll Free): (800) 987-1231 📱️
Fax (Toll Free): (800) 985-1231 ░
Email: Sales@BrailleBookstore.com 📧️
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time.
About: Welcome to Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore. We have been supplying products to blind people and their families since 1999. We offer thousands of Braille books, toys, games, kitchen aids, and talking products. We have unbeatable prices, fast, free shipping, and great customer service! We have tons of Braille books and cool products to choose from; so grab a cup of coffee, relax, and we'll give you a quick tour:
Products:
➜ Timekeeping
➜ Housewares
➜ On The Go
➜ Low Vision Products
➜ Toys and Games
➜ Gift Shop
➜ Braille Workshop
➜ Braille Bookstore
➜ Greeting Cards
➜ Copy Center
➜ Computer Lab
➜ Popular Products
➜ New Products
If you need some fresh ideas or have questions, you can also check out our Shopping Guides.
Sponsor: Fable
➜ Advance Your Career With Fable Pathways' Free, Accessible Online Learning
Fable Pathways helps you gain the skills that you need to work in the tech sector with a free, accessible, and on-demand program. Learn from industry leaders with disabilities to take your career to the next level, like Kelly Ford, Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, who introduces GitHub and VS Code using a screen reader. Spend less time and energy trying to access courses with your assistive technology and focus on the content that matters to you, with Fable Pathways' accessible platform. Sign up today!
https://tinyurl.com/25jwux3p
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: https://fablepathways.com/ 🌐
Email: community@makeitfable.com 📧️
Phone: (888) 212-3532 📱️ Extension 810
About: Just like curb cuts help everyone get on and off sidewalks, designing digital products with accessibility in mind helps make the internet more accessible for everyone. Fable is an accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities. Fable connects people with disabilities to accessibility managers, user researchers, designers, and developers to build incredible and accessible user experiences.
Opportunities:
➜ Fable Pathways: Fable Pathways is a free skill development program for people with disabilities interested in working in the tech sector. Sign up to take your career to the next level. Courses include "Getting started in web development" taught by Kelly Ford, a screen reader user, and Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, and "Becoming a manager" taught by Fable's Head of Accessibility Innovation, Kate Kalcevich. Instructors are subject matter experts in their fields and have lived experience with disability. Pathways courses are free, self-paced and assistive-technology-friendly. Sign up now at https://fablepathways.com/.
➜ Fable's Community of Accessibility Testers: Work from home to contribute to real changes in digital accessibility and make the internet a more accessible place for everyone. Ever leave a website because it was too hard to navigate? Because it was missing button labels? Because it didn't respond to voice commands? Us too. Our community of testers who use assistive technologies work from home and contribute to real changes in digital accessibility with recognizable brands. Earn money to share your feedback on websites and apps of your favorite brands and work with companies that care. No experience required and no resume required. Fable is looking for assistive technology users in the USA and Canada to work the hours that they want, from the comfort of their own homes. Learn more at https://fablepathways.com/community/.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ Join the Dolphin Friends Program
Dolphin Friends supports, recognizes, and rewards the great work that charities and sight loss societies do to support the people in their community who are visually impaired. Members receive free Dolphin software, staff training on GuideConnect and SuperNova, computing accessories and a useful resource pack to help you advise your service users on Dolphin assistive technology. Join Dolphin Friends:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/join-dolphin-friends-us
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Sponsor: Clusiv
➜ Looking For Blind Job-Seekers Wanting To Advance Their Salaries, Careers And Digital Accessibility For The Blind
Are you interested in learning new tech skills and working remotely while earning a competitive salary? At Clusiv.io we have created the world's first digitally accessible e-Learning platform built by the blind, and built for the blind. Visit the link provided and request Clusiv through your Vocational Rehab counselor for lifetime access to our e-Learning platform with courses such as Business Applications, JAWS, and more:
https://clusiv.io/
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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 from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Control the climate of your home independently! The VIP 3000 is a universal heating — cooling talking thermostat This accessible digital thermostat is specifically designed to offer audio playback of indoor temperature, temperature settings and programming instructions so blind and visually impaired users can independently & precisely manage their indoor comfort. Don't over pay. Read more at:
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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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
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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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.
Your Name Here
2 of 18 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are 2 of 18 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, July 14, 2022 - Volume 867
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.
Subscribers: 7,331 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email. 127 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Dolphin EasyReader App Inducted to the AppleVis Hall of Fame
The AppleVis iOS App Hall of Fame celebrates the skills and passion of developers who build apps that are fully accessible to VoiceOver users. EasyReader joins notable products such as DropBox, SeeingAI and Cash Reader in the Hall of Fame, as an app recognized for its full accessibility. EasyReader App is a free, accessible reading app that directly connects to over 40 countries' accessible talking book libraries, here in the US they are NLS-BARD and Bookshare. It is compatible on a variety of platforms-Android, Kindle Fire, Chromebooks, Windows and obviously Apple's iOS. EasyReader technology is also built into the Dolphin SuperNova range and GuideConnect software, with a simplified user interface. You can download EasyReader by going to your platform's app store. Read more about our induction at: https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/news?id=521 or visit the EasyReader web page to learn more at: https://yourdolphin.com/EasyReader.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Siri Gets A Boost in iOS 16 (10.8% of all clicks.)
Siri's iOS 16 changes are all about making your iPhone easier to use:
https://coolblindtech.com/siri-gets-boost-in-ios-16/
B.) How Blind or Low Vision Booklovers Can Fully Concentrate While Reading an Audiobook (7.4% of all clicks.)
Empish J. Thomas has some tips for learning to enjoy audio books more fully with a visual impairment:
https://visionaware.org/blog/visually-impaired-now-what/how-blind-or-low-vision-booklovers-can-fully-concentrate-while-reading-an-audiobook/
C.) Humanware Announces The Stellar Trek GPS Device: Still in Beta, Price Unknown | Tech-VI List (6.6% of all clicks.)
After demonstrating some features of the Victor Reader Trek Rachel Feinberg of Humanware announced and demonstrated a prerelease version of a new GPS product from Humanware called the Stellar Trek:
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/2285
D.) Creating A More Accessible Envision (6.2% of all clicks.)
Making the Envision app free of charge, lower cost to the glasses, and opening to 3rd party manufactures are among the changes:
https://www.letsenvision.com/blog/creating-a-more-accessible-envision
E.) Free Apps and Actions from APH (6.0% of all clicks.)
We use apps every day to check email, listen to music, play games, and connect with friends. Here APH celebrates National App Day by sharing their FREE apps and actions that they think are a lot of fun:
https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/
2) Two Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Packages Currently Available
I am very happy to report that our waiting list has been cleared and there are currently two sponsorship packages available to any potential Sponsor that might wish to secure one. So if you've been thinking about joining us, now is the perfect opportunity. If you're not sure if Tidbits is the right fit for your business or organization I encourage you to consider a quarterly trial. After 3 months of exposure in Tidbits you can decide for yourself the true value of a Sponsorship position. The first two potential sponsors to reach out to publisher@toptechtidbits.com will be provided with links to secure a package. You will be able to choose between our $325 per quarter option or our $1200 per year option. Please note that you will only have 72 hours to secure your package by paying for it before it will be offered to the next potential sponsor on our waiting list, if there is a waiting list at the time. When there is not, we will always keep your invoices active until there is. Please consider joining us. Become one of the 18 industry leaders that support the world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology while enjoying some really incredible benefits:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html
3) Dolphin SuperNova With Microsoft Office Power Tip: Get Additional Help About An Item In The Office Ribbon With A Supernova Hotkey
Courtesy of Dolphin Computer Access:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/98.html
4) Expanded Availability of At-home COVID-19 Tests for People Who Are Blind or Have Low Vision
Last month, the Biden-Harris Administration launched an initiative to expand the availability of at-home testing options that are more accessible for people who are blind or have low vision. The tests work with a Bluetooth-enabled smartphone app to provide users with audible instructions and test results. Due to very limited supplies when the program began, each order included only two test kits. People were asked to order these tests only if they did not have options for using the traditional kits. Starting July 8th 2022, the program is expanding. People will now receive 12 test kits with each order. In addition, anyone who is blind or who has low vision is now encouraged to order the more-accessible tests:
https://acl.gov/covid19/tests-people-who-are-blind-or-have-low-vision
5) Envision App, Now Free For Everyone
A practical guide to what these changes mean for you:
https://www.letsenvision.com/blog/envision-app-now-free-for-everyone
6) APH Is Ready for a Braille Revolution
You undoubtedly heard the big splash in 2017, when we introduced our plans for the Graphiti, a dynamic, multi-level tactile display. All of us here vividly remember the day of the solar eclipse that year, when people who are visually impaired were able to touch the sun with their hands using the device. But through that development process, we learned that we can — and must — do even more. Graphiti would have been used side-by-side with a braille textbook. But now, in partnership with HumanWare, we're developing what we consider the holy grail of Braille: a single tablet device that provides both braille text and tactile graphics, all in one:
https://www.aph.org/aph-is-ready-for-a-braille-revolution/
7) Fable Launches Online Course Platform
Fable, an online platform that connects companies in need of accessibility testers with people with disabilities, has launched Fable Pathways, a free skills development program that shares online courses for people with disabilities, by people with disabilities. The inaugural courses are "Getting Started in Web Development" and "Becoming a Manager." For more information and to view the free courses, visit:
https://fablepathways.com
8) Breaking News: Aira Everywhere! Aira for the Desktop, Aira on the BlindShell Phone Classic 2, Aira on the ARX Headset and Aira on the Envision Glasses!
We covered a good deal of this last week, but it is a good time to point out that Aira is now coming to the BlindShell Phone Classic 2 Accessible Cell Phone. Lots of outlets covered this, but this is where we heard it first:
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7448#:~:text=The%20BlindShell%20Classic%202%20Accessible,later%20this%20summer%20around%20August
9) Atkinson Hyperlegible Font
The Braille Institute offers Atkinson Hyperlegible Font, available for free. Here the link to read more and download it to your Windows or Mac computer:
https://brailleinstitute.org/freefont
10) A New Choice in Braille Transcription Software
BrailleBlaster is not new, but we used it for a small project recently and noticed changes after updating:
https://www.brailleblaster.org/download.php
11) Mycroft AI Launches Mimic 3 TTS
Mycroft AI, creators of an open-source speech technology platform, has released the Mimic 3 text-to-speech (TTS) engine with more than two dozen languages and 100 voice sets. It can run completely offline on low-end systems:
https://www.speechtechmag.com/Articles/News/Speech-Technology-News/Mycroft-AI-Launches-Mimic-3-TTS-153799.aspx
12) APH Releases Send to Braille 2.0
The American Printing House for the Blind has released an update of its free Send to Braille application, which allows Windows users to quickly create machine-translated braille files in BRL (unformatted MicroBraille) format. Version 2.0 allows the simultaneous conversion of multiple files and includes many back-end updates for smoother function. For more information, visit:
https://tech.aph.org/
13) 4 Free Sites and Extensions for Online Text-to-Speech Tools
There are a whole host of different benefits that you can achieve with text-to-speech, no matter who you are or what you're doing. But downloading various programs onto your computer just to give text-to-speech a try can be a bit of a daunting task:
https://www.makeuseof.com/sites-and-extensions-for-online-text-to-speech-tools/
14) Updated Documentation For Leasey 7 Now Available
While the major update of Leasey 7 has not yet been released Hartgen Consultancy has updated the documentation to reflect the new changes and additions. In anticipation of the upcoming release you may read the documentation from the following link. Please note that at the time of this writing the software available for download is still for Leasey 7.0 build 7060 which is not the upcoming version with the new features:
https://www.hartgen.org/leaseydemo
15) NLS Patron Engagement Section Launches Virtual Programs
As part of its effort to provide services, programs, and resources directly to patrons that will enhance their library experience, the newly formed Patron Engagement Section will be hosting a virtual Monthly BARD Review on Zoom. This program will occur the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. Eastern, starting on August 11. Each Review will last for one hour and will discuss a predetermined topic about a component of BARD usage or a specific BARD product. After the prepared training, patrons will have an opportunity to ask any questions that they may have regarding the topic of the evening or any other aspect of BARD. To join the August 11 session, visit https://loc.zoomgov.com/j/1611161911?pwd=bVh5ejFsWFBlL21KY0VqaHlRMUlSQT09 or call in by telephone at (669) 254-5252 📱️ (Meeting ID: 161 116 1911). The Patron Engagement Section is also launching a quarterly Patron Corner program. The first Patron Corner, held on June 13, 2022, covered Everything You Always Wanted to Know about Collection Selection, but Did Not Have the Vehicle to Ask. For future information on upcoming Patron Engagement Section programs, visit:
https://www.loc.gov/nls/about/services/
16) New Windows 11 Insider Build 25145 Brings Braille Driver Solution, OneDrive Storage Alerts To The Dev Channel
Microsoft just released the latest Dev Channel build, version 25145, for Windows 11, and along with a number of changes, fixes, and improvements, it includes three new features:
https://www.onmsft.com/news/new-windows-11-insider-build-25145-brings-braille-driver-solution-onedrive-storage-alerts-to-the-dev-channel
17) VoxLens Makes Interactive Data More Accessible For Screen Readers
VoxLens is a JavaScript plugin that, with one additional line of code, allows people who use screen readers to interact with visualizations:
https://www.futurity.org/voxlens-graphics-accessibility-blindness-screen-reader-2752842/
18) 8 New Windows 11 Keyboard Shortcuts You Need To Know
A few of these are extra nifty:
https://www.pcworld.com/article/547654/8-new-windows-11-keyboard-shortcuts.html
19) New Directory Lists Accessible Windows Programs
Laufware recently launched a directory of accessible Windows programs. Categories include Audio Players, Keyboard Shortcuts, Screen Readers, and many others. More than two hundred programs are listed. The website also highlights podcasts of interest to the blind and low-vision community. For more information, visit:
https://laufware.com/
20) Webinar Recording | The AT Social Hub: The Return of Steve Nutt from Computer Room Services | YouTube
Sight and Sound Technology recently conducted a webinar with Steve Nutt from Computer Room Services. During Steve's presentation he discussed and demonstrated two products which may be of interest to some readers. He demonstrated one of the Milestone media players which was very likely the Milestone 312 Ace WIFI from Bones. This player can play DAISY titles, including those from NLS and Bookshare as well as titles from Audible according to the product page. He also demonstrated the Zeitgeist 2 talking timepiece with a variety of time-related functions including providing the time using haptic feedback:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbWYHs9wKAY
21) Remote Incident Manager (Public Beta) | Pneuma Solutions
Remote Incident Manager (RIM) is a fully accessible remote desktop product for technical support, training, and simply helping friends and family with their PCs. Try RIM completely free of charge during the public beta:
https://getrim.app/
22) The Business User's Guide To Google Voice
Google Voice can add a whole new layer of power into your professional phone setup — once you figure out how to use it. Here's help:
https://www.computerworld.com/article/3664093/google-voice-business-users-guide.html
23) Leasey Version 7 Build 7116 Now Available | Hartgen Consultancy
https://www.hartgen.org/leaseydemo
24) The Muze: Build 46 Now Available | Hartgen Consultancy
The Muze Build 46 is Released. Albums are now displayed with Official Charts Company searches. List Boxes of results are now returned in respect of searches for Wikipedia, Discogs and Genius Lyrics:
https://www.hartgen.org/themuze
25) Review | Vision Buddy - New Tech From Sight And Sound Technology
https://www.londonvision.org/blog/vision-buddy-review/
26) Spring App For iOS: Twitter Client: Version 3.6 Includes Accessibility Improvements For VoiceOver Users
In addition to what is mentioned in the release notes version 3.6 also seems to be a bit more responsive when swiping from one tweet to the next. This Twitter client offers some useful features with impressive accessibility for VoiceOver users:
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/spring-for-twitter/id1508706541
27) App Update from Leading Sport and Fitness Equipment Manufacturer Concept2 Includes New Accessibility Features
A major update of the ErgData app from Concept2 is now available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store for Android. The app has many new features, including audio guidance in both Apple and Android versions to increase accessibility:
https://acb.org/ergdata-app
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Can Excessive Use Of Headphones Cause Deafness?
According to a recent study by France's National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM), a large number of people in France are facing problems due to headphones. The study also shared a surprising fact that about 25% of adults in France are struggling with hearing problems. The main reason for this is the excessive use of headphones:
https://www.news18.com/news/lifestyle/can-excessive-use-of-headphones-cause-deafness-5502355.html
2) New Accessibility App For St. John's Pedestrian Mall Excludes Some With Vision Loss, Advocate Says
This is a good example of how an app like BlindSquare or Microsoft Soundscape can limit access for users who do not use iOS:
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/newfoundland-labrador/blindsquare-pedestrian-mall-concerns-1.6511251
3) FCC Takes Enforcement Action Against Verizon Wireless For Not Providing Information Related To Accessibility Of Its Premium Visual Voicemail Service
FCC Enforcement Bureau proposes $100,000 fine against Verizon Wireless for apparently failing to produce documentation exhibiting due diligence in exploring accessibility and achievability of its Premium Visual Voicemail service:
https://www.fcc.gov/document/fcc-proposes-fine-against-verizon-failure-produce-documents
4) This App Gives People Who Are Blind Step-By-Step Audio Directions To Easily Navigate Public Transit
Initially piloted in three D.C. Metro stations, Waymap — which uses sensors in a smartphone to know exactly where a person is and how they're moving — will be available across the city's transit system by Spring 2023:
https://www.fastcompany.com/90768125/this-app-gives-people-who-are-blind-step-by-step-audio-directions-to-easily-navigate-public-transit
5) Strangers Rescue Visually Impaired Man Who Fell Into Boston Harbor With Guide Dog
A man who is visually impaired is looking for the two strangers who jumped into Boston Harbor to save his life:
https://www.cbsnews.com/boston/news/visually-impaired-man-rescued-boston-harbor/
6) National Beep Baseball World Series Coming to Beaumont | YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aCSF87hCwdM
7) Advocates Tout 'Untapped' Pool Of Blind And Visually Impaired Workers To Fill Job Positions
Despite a resume that includes a master's degree and a previous position as executive director for a deaf and blind advocacy organization, Paulette Monthei's low vision disability proved to be a hardship:
https://www.news-journal.com/advocates-tout-untapped-pool-of-blind-and-visually-impaired-workers-to-fill-job-positions/article_71b12f1c-990c-52f1-af07-478110ef2cb8.html
8) Best Smartphone Assistive Apps For Seniors With Low Vision
Assistive apps for smartphones could help seniors with low vision regain some of their independence and relieve caregiver burden at the same time. But there's a problem: Many older Americans who could benefit from apps designed for those with visual impairment do not use them. In fact, while 15.2% of people over the age of 75 reported having vision loss that could not be corrected through prescription lenses, only 6% of older smartphone users take advantage of these types of apps:
https://www.seniorsmatter.com/best-smartphone-assistive-apps-for-seniors-with-low-vision/2614168/
➜ Surveys
1) APH Surveys Page
Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
2) Audible Vision Baseline Survey
This baseline survey aims to understand how assistive technology users conduct certain activities:
https://bit.ly/Audiblevision
3) Audible Vision App Survey
This survey aims to understand how assistive technology users use the Audible Vision app:
https://bit.ly/AudibleVisionForm2
4) NVDA Satisfaction Survey 2022
Nonvisual Desktop Access (NVDA) is asking users to complete a short satisfaction survey. It is at:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe-nr8XMipBx8jrXBTK7M_pxsw7GQR11Vt9E8VG52fK7op15Q/viewform
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Star Trek and Vision Loss | Hadley Presents A Conversation with the Experts
July 8th 2022 | Actor and artist Bruce Horak talks about his personal journey with vision loss, how he got interested in painting, and his role in the new television series Star Trek: Strange New Worlds:
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/star-trek-and-vision-loss
2) Mosen at Large Episode 187: Aira Arriving On New Devices, Differing Uber Experiences, And Tech Tips For Travel
3) Blind Abilities Podcast Episode 866: Tech Abilities: To Delve or Not to Delve, Aira Announces Lots, Apple Fever, Mobility and Guide Dogs, Text Selection, 3 Finger Quadruple Tap and the Rotor Organization Demo!
July 11th 2022 | Serina, Callie and jeff dig into some news and tech tidbits that have been getting a lot of attention. Callie delves into the Guide Dog dream and is mobility going to be the ice breaker? How about Blind Pride, hmmm, to each at their own time probably, We got a lot of topics through out this episode and some really good tips on copying text and arranging your rotor actions for efficiency. And, much more news and tech tidbits from across the entire Universe! :)
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7461
4) Eyes on Success Episode 2228: Graphical Braille Display and eBRF
July 13th 2022 | Wouldn't it be nice to have an affordable, 2-D, refreshable Braille display? Soon that may not be just a dream. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Greg Stilson and William Freeman from the American Printing House about the new technology behind the combined text and graphics tactile display they are working on as well as formatting standards for such displays:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202228.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Reading Books from Accessible Libraries NLS/BARD, NFB Newsline and Bookshare | SuperNova Everyday Essential Webinar
July 14th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Participate live every Tuesday or watch the recordings at your leisure:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/en-us/supernova-everyday-essentials
2) ACB Community Event: Use The JAWS Skim = Reading Tool to Quickly Review Long Documents | Freedom Scientific
July 14th 2022 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Want to quickly review long documents and search for information? Join us to learn how to make the JAWS Skim-Reading tool work for you. American Council of the Blind. To request an invitation, email community@acb.org 📧️.
3) Getting Started with Podcasting | The Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library
Saturday, July 16th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Join Brian Fischler and Allison Meloy from That Real Blind Tech show along with Jeanine Stanley from the Airacast Podcast, Steven Scott from Blind Guy Talks Tech Podcast, and David Goldstein from ICantCU and White Cane's Connect Podcast for a Roundtable about what else but podcasting. Have you ever wanted to learn how to start your own podcast? Join us to learn how to get started in podcasting, find out what tools you will need, how to launch your podcast, edit your show, and promote your podcast on social media. The group will discuss what works for them, what issues they have run in to over the years, and discuss podcasting best practices:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYvde6vqj8qEtXkzeLVw5KwdQgA9N845fBf
4) Ask Sharky: Use the JAWS Notification History | Freedom Scientific
July 19th 2022 | Learn to use the new Notification History feature in JAWS and Fusion, which enables you to control what notifications you hear. Download the Clubhouse app from iOS App Store or Google Play to participate on your mobile device.
5) Envision Glasses: Everything You Always Wanted to Know But Were Afraid to Ask | Access Ingenuity
July 20th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Did you know that Envision Glasses are built like a platform, and are constantly updated with new features and functionalities? With that in mind, we are excited to present the July 2022 edition of our Envision glasses presentation. This session will serve as an introduction to those new to the glasses, as well as a chance to review, learn about the latest features, or ask questions for those who have attended our previous webinars or who are the lucky owners of a pair. We may even get a visit from an Envision representative! Join Ian Ramos and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity as we look at the exciting new Envision glasses. Envision glasses use the cutting-edge Google Glasses platform as a way for visually impaired users to gain access to their environment. They provide 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. Learn more about the additional features these glasses offer and how they differ from other wearable technologies currently on the market. Learning Outcomes: 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 Envision glasses presentation. | Meeting ID: 844 9731 5433 | Passcode: 122811 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,84497315433#,,,,*122811# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose). Join:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84497315433?pwd=ScI1ThYtHUY1tcB0cf_AOoDqdlB908.1#success
6) Best Practices to Structure Accessibility Testing | TPGi
July 20th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | This webinar will cover common gaps in how organizations implement accessibility testing. These gaps complicate communication within an organization and lead to barriers for people with disabilities. Once the common gaps have been identified, we will review step-by-step instructions on how to reduce these gaps. Participants will leave with a clear plan for accessibility testing that is practical and sustainable. With this plan, organizations can increase the coverage and precision of their testing while decreasing the overall amount of test results. Additionally, participants will learn: The pros and cons of the different automated accessibility testing libraries and which one is right for their organization. The limitations of automated testing and how to bridge the gap with manual testing. How to track progress on errors and verify what's been fixed from one sprint to the next. While this webinar focuses on building accessibility testing skills with the ARC Platform, the lessons are applicable to all testing libraries. With the evolution of AI and machine learning, there are many new innovations in automated accessibility testing. This webinar evaluates their effectiveness and looks ahead to how they could affect accessibility testing. Register today:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-july-20-at-12pm-et-best-practices-to-structure-accessibility-testing/
7) JAWS Power Tips for Increasing Productivity at Work and at Play | Freedom Scientific
July 21st 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Want tips for improving productivity in apps such as Word, Teams, and Edge? Join us for a webinar on JAWS power tips! Register for this webinar, which offers ACVREP credits to those who attend the live webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_OwHsA3AJTMKeedGpAgBNzg
8) ACB Community Event: Schedule a Zoom Meeting Using JAWS | Freedom Scientific
July 21st 2022 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Find out how to schedule events on the Zoom conferencing platform with JAWS. American Council of the Blind. To request an invitation, email community@acb.org 📧️.
9) Snap & Read: 5 Essential Supports for Executive Function | Don Johnston
July 26th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Presented By: Stephanie Gilley. Executive function deficits — disorganization, poor time management, difficulty getting started with tasks — can keep bright learners from doing great things. And it can be tough to know how to help! Digital supports can empower students to stay organized, focused, and work independently, both at this point in their lives and in the future. In this webinar, Stephanie Gilley will demonstrate the top 5 tools that support learners with executive functioning difficulties: Read Aloud tools to support focus. Highlighting/Color Overlay/screen masking tool for help with visual tracking. A tool to reduce digital distractions. Note taking tools to help with organization. PDF annotation to help streamline tasks and assignments. Register to attend live or receive a recording:
https://learningtools.donjohnston.com/webinar/snapread-5-essential-supports-for-executive-function/
10) Methods to Navigate Word & Outlook Efficiently with JAWS Using Speech & Braille (ACVREP CE Approved) | Access Ingenuity
July 27th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Many JAWS users may know some features to quickly navigate specific increments and elements such as links, headings, forms, graphics, and tables when using a web browser. However, most do not know that there are similar JAWS features to increase efficiency when navigating Word documents and Outlook emails. Join Rachel Reeves, Marisa Church, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity with Joe McDaniel from Vispero to explore various JAWS Navigation Quick Keys with a browser, Word, and Outlook. It is important to note that this presentation will benefit those who want to know how to work with Navigation Quick Keys using JAWS with either a QWERTY keyboard or a Focus braille display. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: Introduce JAWS Navigation Quick Keys and how they can increase your efficiency when navigating a browser, Word, and Outlook. Understand how to turn on and off Navigation Quick Keys, when you want them on or off, and the JAWS default settings for Quick Keys in different situations. Discover how to learn the Quick Keys in different situations with the JAWS Screen Sensitive help. Explore Quick Key features such as links, headings, forms, tables, misspelled words, comments, track changes, etc. | Meeting ID: 872 7899 0752 | Passcode: 807757 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,87278990752#,,,,*807757# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87278990752?pwd=0bOnQubthYiLE-xJtf_PuOGsnBFL-F.1#success
11) How to Quickly Test Your Website for JAWS Screen Reader Compatibility | TPGi
July 27th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenters: Mike DeSorda, Customer Success Manager, and Al Puzzuoli, Customer Support. 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 quickly 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 JAWS Inspect alongside JAWS (or by itself) for quick and easy screen reader compatibility testing:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-july-27-at-12pm-et-quickly-test-your-website-for-jaws-screen-reader-compatibility/
12) Controlling Your World with Control Bionics from APTAT
July 27th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | APTAT Assistive Technology Training Series
Training Duration: 1 hour. An expanded training including an overview of using the Control Bionics device for communication as well as an environmental control unit. Registration is required. Accommodation requests should be made at least 2 weeks before the event date. We will do our best to coordinate any requests made within 2 weeks of the event, however please be aware we may not be able to honor the request on short notice. Certificate of Attendance is available for live attendees and can be requested during registration. This webinar will be recorded and archived on our YouTube channel: Accessing Potential Through Assistive Technology:
https://rehabalabama.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0scuCupjsrG9DYSokUMLLCB7Ck8WIqePKT
13) Ask Sharky: What Happened at the Association on Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD) Conference? | Freedom Scientific
July 27th 2022 | Join us for details on Vispero activities at the ACB and NFB conventions. Download the Clubhouse app from iOS App Store or Google Play to participate on your mobile device.
14) ACB Community Event: Ten JAWS Power Tips to Increase Productivity | Freedom Scientific
July 28th 2022 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Discover ten JAWS power tips for increasing productivity when navigating apps and completing tasks. American Council of the Blind. To request an invitation, email community@acb.org 📧️.
15) NaviLens and Apple air Tags | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
August 13th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Labeling and tracking just got a whole lot easier! Learn how to use these exciting new products. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
16) Pixel Phone | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
September 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Has Android bridged the gap with Apple with this remarkable new device? All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
17) Blindness & Diabetes Webinar: Dexcom vs Freestyle Libre | Accessible Pharmacy Services For The Blind
September 23rd 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Blindness and Diabetes Webinar: Dexcom vs Freestyle Libre. Please join Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind and University of Pennsylvania's Diabetes Education Center as we compare Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) devices available to our blind, deafblind, and low vision patients living with diabetes. We will be discussing differences between Dexcom and Freestyle Libre as well as their accessibility features. This webinar will have captioning and a live ASL interpreter. If you are unable to attend, please register to receive the webinar audio and video via email:
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/blindness-diabetes-webinar-dexcom-vs-freestyle-libre/
18) iOS 16 Review And Editing Voice Memos | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
October 1st 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Every year we look for accessibility improvements in our i-devices. See what is new in this latest version of the Apple operating system. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
19) AT Gifts for the Holidays | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Our annual look at gadgets and gizmos that will make your holiday season a successful one. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
20) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
December 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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 New Braille Embosser Index Basic D Version 4 USB Retail Box
Listing Date: 6/23/2022 | Price: $1,200.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Hello, we have a practically new Index Basic D version 4 double sided Braille embosser with USB and many of the modern embosser features still in the retail box we can sell. It has never had any problems at all, it just has not been used . Asking $1200 OBO | Contact: Jay via email at: JS5lio021@gmail.com 📧️ or by phone / text at: (816) 659-0044 📱️. |
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
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)
➜ Start Your Coding Journey Today with APH's Road to Code!
Want to learn more about coding but don't know where to start? Look no further! APH's Road to Code provides a roadmap for coding progression through all our fun and engaging coding products.
https://bit.ly/3HueRfI
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: We're Exhibiting at both ACB and NFB Conventions
Barry, Kae, and Debra welcome you to our world of everything leather, dog, and gadget; and our "New" Evo 12 stereo Daisy player with 6 voices, $289; Hermione bottomless leather bag, $65; Titanium telescopic locking canes, $50; Next generation bone conduction headphones, $110; Talking medical bundle, $120; Soft absorbent doggie bathrobes, $30 - $35; Protective doggie winter jackets/raincoats, $30 - $40; Self-cleaning grooming brushes, $15 - $26, and much more! Come find us! For additional information, contact Barry Scheur at (617) 969-7500 📱️ / bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️ or Kae at (781) 286-1696 📱️ / guidelightdogs@gmail.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, affordable, 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
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: Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
➜ Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore: Touch Tomorrow in Today's Products
Serving blind people since 1999, we're a family-owned, forward-thinking company offering both tried-and-true and exciting new products for blind and low vision consumers. We design and carry self-voicing educational software, Braille supplies, talking gadgets, adapted household items, tactile card and board games, audible toys and gift ideas. Passionate about innovation, we've also created dozens of products from scratch when a suitable solution did not exist. Shop online at http://www.braillebookstore.com/ and enjoy fast, free shipping.
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: http://www.braillebookstore.com/ 🌐
Phone (Toll Free): (800) 987-1231 📱️
Fax (Toll Free): (800) 985-1231 ░
Email: Sales@BrailleBookstore.com 📧️
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time.
About: Welcome to Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore. We have been supplying products to blind people and their families since 1999. We offer thousands of Braille books, toys, games, kitchen aids, and talking products. We have unbeatable prices, fast, free shipping, and great customer service! We have tons of Braille books and cool products to choose from; so grab a cup of coffee, relax, and we'll give you a quick tour:
Products:
➜ Timekeeping
➜ Housewares
➜ On The Go
➜ Low Vision Products
➜ Toys and Games
➜ Gift Shop
➜ Braille Workshop
➜ Braille Bookstore
➜ Greeting Cards
➜ Copy Center
➜ Computer Lab
➜ Popular Products
➜ New Products
If you need some fresh ideas or have questions, you can also check out our Shopping Guides.
Sponsor: Fable
➜ Advance Your Career With Fable Pathways' Free, Accessible Online Learning
Fable Pathways helps you gain the skills that you need to work in the tech sector with a free, accessible, and on-demand program. Learn from industry leaders with disabilities to take your career to the next level, like Kelly Ford, Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, who introduces GitHub and VS Code using a screen reader. Spend less time and energy trying to access courses with your assistive technology and focus on the content that matters to you, with Fable Pathways' accessible platform. Sign up today!
https://tinyurl.com/25jwux3p
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: https://fablepathways.com/ 🌐
Email: community@makeitfable.com 📧️
Phone: (888) 212-3532 📱️ Extension 810
About: Just like curb cuts help everyone get on and off sidewalks, designing digital products with accessibility in mind helps make the internet more accessible for everyone. Fable is an accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities. Fable connects people with disabilities to accessibility managers, user researchers, designers, and developers to build incredible and accessible user experiences.
Opportunities:
➜ Fable Pathways: Fable Pathways is a free skill development program for people with disabilities interested in working in the tech sector. Sign up to take your career to the next level. Courses include "Getting started in web development" taught by Kelly Ford, a screen reader user, and Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, and "Becoming a manager" taught by Fable's Head of Accessibility Innovation, Kate Kalcevich. Instructors are subject matter experts in their fields and have lived experience with disability. Pathways courses are free, self-paced and assistive-technology-friendly. Sign up now at https://fablepathways.com/.
➜ Fable's Community of Accessibility Testers: Work from home to contribute to real changes in digital accessibility and make the internet a more accessible place for everyone. Ever leave a website because it was too hard to navigate? Because it was missing button labels? Because it didn't respond to voice commands? Us too. Our community of testers who use assistive technologies work from home and contribute to real changes in digital accessibility with recognizable brands. Earn money to share your feedback on websites and apps of your favorite brands and work with companies that care. No experience required and no resume required. Fable is looking for assistive technology users in the USA and Canada to work the hours that they want, from the comfort of their own homes. Learn more at https://fablepathways.com/community/.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ Join the Dolphin Friends Program
Dolphin Friends supports, recognizes, and rewards the great work that charities and sight loss societies do to support the people in their community who are visually impaired. Members receive free Dolphin software, staff training on GuideConnect and SuperNova, computing accessories and a useful resource pack to help you advise your service users on Dolphin assistive technology. Join Dolphin Friends:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/join-dolphin-friends-us
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Sponsor: Clusiv
➜ Looking For Blind Job-Seekers Wanting To Advance Their Salaries, Careers And Digital Accessibility For The Blind
Are you interested in learning new tech skills and working remotely while earning a competitive salary? At Clusiv.io we have created the world's first digitally accessible e-Learning platform built by the blind, and built for the blind. Visit the link provided and request Clusiv through your Vocational Rehab counselor for lifetime access to our e-Learning platform with courses such as Business Applications, JAWS, and more:
https://clusiv.io/
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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 from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Control the climate of your home independently! The VIP 3000 is a universal heating — cooling talking thermostat This accessible digital thermostat is specifically designed to offer audio playback of indoor temperature, temperature settings and programming instructions so blind and visually impaired users can independently & precisely manage their indoor comfort. Don't over pay. Read more at:
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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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
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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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!
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/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.
Your Name Here
2 of 18 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are 2 of 18 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, July 7, 2022 - Volume 866
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.
Subscribers: 7,317 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email. 127 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Kickstart Your Job Search with APH CareerConnect Resources
APH CareerConnect provides critical and timely job exploration tools and resources for first time and returning job seekers to the workforce. Thousands of blind and low vision job seekers rely on new and existing CareerConnect partnerships with leading industry and nonprofit agencies each year as they prepare for and execute their job search. For beginning job seekers and those reentering the workforce after adjusting to changing vision, CareerConnect offers interactive media via our popular Career Conversations series. These sessions promote informational interviewing and beginning networking techniques. The Job Seeker's Toolkit is an accessible, self-paced, free online training course that helps students and job seekers develop career exploration and job-seeking skills. The course provides five, 60-minute sessions, covering self-awareness, career exploration tools and resources, the preliminary employment process, the interview, and maintaining employment. Learn more today at: https://aphconnectcenter.org/.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Reader Review: Black & Decker Talking Toaster Oven (9.6% of all clicks.)
Courtesy of Donna Jodhan, Top Tech Tidbits Reader:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/94.html
B.) Alexa To Add Voices Of Your Deceased Loved Ones (6.9% of all clicks.)
On June 22nd 2022 Amazon announced a new feature that will allow Alexa to speak in the voices of deceased relatives, friends and other loved ones:
https://fox8.com/news/alexa-to-add-voices-of-your-deceased-loved-ones/?fbclid=IwAR3LLcSr0L7JT5g5A6hTahGdK4NGJbn6mzlXsrxRvz2ZyRXsPfUKfiJjryk
C.) 6 Accessibility Basics Cause 97% of Errors (5.5% of all clicks.)
I repeatedly encounter the same six issues when evaluating a website's accessibility, as do most consultants. I'd like to imagine a world where companies clean up most accessibility glitches in-house and hire consultants only to solve highly technical problems. Alas, many companies struggle with implementing the basics. Addressing the six common errors below solves many accessibility snafus, greatly helping vision-impaired users:
https://www.practicalecommerce.com/6-accessibility-basics-cause-97-of-errors
D.) What To Do If You Can No Longer Use Gmail With Your Favorite Program or Device | WebFriendlyHelp (5.2% of all clicks.)
Due to Google's increased security, you may find yourself unable to send email with your program of choice. If you want to keep using your existing email program, such as Outlook 2010, to read your Google email, read this for links to Google Settings and information:
https://webfriendlyhelp.com/what-to-do-if-you-can-no-longer-use-gmail-with-your-favorite-program-or-device/
E.) Audiom (4.9% of all clicks.)
Audiom is a tool that purports to allow blind and visually impaired individuals to view maps completely in audio. It is a web component and can be embedded into any webpage, like Google Maps:
https://www.ski.org/project/audiom
2) Two Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Packages Currently Available
I am very happy to report that our waiting list has been cleared and there are currently two sponsorship packages available to any potential Sponsor that might wish to secure one. So if you've been thinking about joining us, now is the perfect opportunity. If you're not sure if Tidbits is the right fit for your business or organization I encourage you to consider a quarterly trial. After 3 months of exposure in Tidbits you can decide for yourself the true value of a Sponsorship position. The first two potential sponsors to reach out to publisher@toptechtidbits.com will be provided with links to secure a package. You will be able to choose between our $325 per quarter option or our $1200 per year option. Please note that you will only have 72 hours to secure your package by paying for it before it will be offered to the next potential sponsor on our waiting list, if there is a waiting list at the time. When there is not, we will always keep your invoices active until there is. Please consider joining us. Become one of the 18 industry leaders that support the world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology while enjoying some really incredible benefits:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html
3) AT&T Authorizes the Accessible MiniVision2+ Cell Phone to Operate on the AT&T and Cricket Network
RAZ Mobility, a provider of mobile assistive technology, and KAPSYS, a French manufacturer of accessible cell phones, announced that the MiniVision2+ Cell Phone, designed specifically for individuals who are blind or visually impaired, has been authorized to operate on the AT&T and Cricket network as a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device):
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220629005158/en/ATT-Authorizes-the-Accessible-MiniVision2-Cell-Phone-to-Operate-on-the-ATT-and-Cricket-Network
4) Humanware Announces The Stellar Trek GPS Device: Still in Beta, Price Unknown | Tech-VI List
After demonstrating some features of the Victor Reader Trek Rachel Feinberg of Humanware announced and demonstrated a prerelease version of a new GPS product from Humanware called the Stellar Trek:
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/2285
5) Orbit June 2022 Zoom Meeting Recording, Chat and Closed Caption Files Now Available | ZIP File
http://www.turner42.com/OrbitResearchJune2022ZoomMeeting.zip
6) BlindAndroidUsers.com Back In Service
https://blindandroidusers.com/
7) Important News For People Using Dolphin Guide
When it was originally developed around 20 years ago, Dolphin Guide stood out as a pioneering example of easy-to-use assistive technology. It introduced many people who are blind and partially sighted to technology. Dolphin Guide was built and run on functionality in Microsoft Windows which — as time has passed and Windows has improved — no longer operates. In addition, Google has recently given notice that its services are no longer available to customers using less-secure apps. This includes all versions of Dolphin Guide (versions 1 to 9). As a result of these Windows and Google changes, many of the key features of Dolphin Guide, including access to Google email accounts, will no longer work:
https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/news?id=520
8) Tiger Software Suite is Upgrading
Improvements in this release including custom braille tables and PDF support:
https://www.aph.org/attention-tiger-software-suite-is-upgrading/
9) How Blind or Low Vision Booklovers Can Fully Concentrate While Reading an Audiobook
Empish J. Thomas has some tips for learning to enjoy audio books more fully with a visual impairment:
https://visionaware.org/blog/visually-impaired-now-what/how-blind-or-low-vision-booklovers-can-fully-concentrate-while-reading-an-audiobook/
10) Creating A More Accessible Envision
Making the Envision app free of charge, lower cost to the glasses, and opening to 3rd party manufactures are among the changes:
https://www.letsenvision.com/blog/creating-a-more-accessible-envision
11) Webinar Recording and Transcript Now Available | What's New in Leasey Version 7
On June 29th 2022 Hartgen Consultancy conducted a webinar demonstrating all of the new features which are soon to be made available in Version 7 of the Leasey product. You can download a recording of the webinar as well as a transcript of the event in rich text format from the following link:
https://hartgen.org/leaseyevent
12) How to Use Emojis in Windows 11 Using Keyboard Shortcuts
Windows 11 comes packed with emojis, and you can access them with a simple keyboard shortcut:
https://www.makeuseof.com/windows-11-emoji-keyboard/
13) Siri Gets A Boost in iOS 16
Siri's iOS 16 changes are all about making your iPhone easier to use:
https://coolblindtech.com/siri-gets-boost-in-ios-16/
14) Recording of FSCast 216, A Demo Of The New JAWS Notification History Manager, And A Visit With Richard Oehm | June 29th 2022
On FSCast 216, we have an answer to the age-old question, "What do you do about applications that tell us too much?" It's the new JAWS Notification History Manager to the rescue. With it, you can gain precise control over which messages are spoken and which are shown in Braille. We'll get you started by demonstrating how to make Microsoft Edge less chatty. Then we'll get to know Richard Oehm, electronics engineer, entrepreneur, doctor of Optacons, and all-around interesting guy. Listen to or download the MP3. You can also read the transcript:
https://blog.freedomscientific.com/fscast-216-a-demo-of-the-new-jaws-notification-history-manager-and-a-visit-with-richard-oehm/
15) JAWS for ARM64 Prerelease
Thank you for your interest in the JAWS 2022 for ARM64 prerelease software. This version runs on ARM64 devices such as the Surface Pro X and requires running Windows 11. Please be aware this is prerelease software, and no technical support is provided. Important: ARM64 is currently only supported with JAWS. ZoomText and Fusion (magnification software) for low vision users are not yet supported:
https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/ARM64
16) What are NVDA Add-Ons and What Are They Used For? | NVDA Discussion List | Brian Vogel | Tech-VI List
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/2273
17) AppleVis Unlimited: What's New and Noteworthy for June 2022
https://www.applevis.com/blog/applevis-unlimited-whats-new-noteworthy-june-2022
18) Free Apps and Actions from APH
We use apps every day to check email, listen to music, play games, and connect with friends. Here APH celebrates National App Day by sharing their FREE apps and actions that they think are a lot of fun:
https://www.aph.org/free-apps-from-aph/
19) Orbit Research Introduces the Orbit Slate Family of Multi-line Braille Displays
Orbit Research announced the launch of the Orbit Slate TM family of multi-line braille displays today on the eve of the annual conventions of the American Council of the Blind and the National Federation of the Blind. The Orbit Slate is the first and only product in the world to provide multiple lines of true real-time refreshable braille in a single, compact, tablet-sized device. It enables people who are blind or visually impaired to seamlessly and intuitively experience spatially arranged text and information such as spatial math problems, braille music and tables in real time. The Slate offers Orbit's unique signage-quality TrueBraille TM cells in two configurations — a model with three rows of forty cells and one with five rows of twenty cells:
https://www.orbitresearch.com/slate/
20) Over 40 Libraries Now Available In The Easyreader Apps
Dolphin is pleased to announce a new update to the EasyReader App for iOS, Android, Windows and Kindle Fire. The latest updates to EasyReader include:
https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/news?id=518
21) New Titles Available From National Braille Press
These books may be of relevance to those interested in learning more about technology. NBP offers their books in several electronic formats in addition to hardcopy Braille:
https://www.nbp.org/ic/nbp/publications/hot_off.html
22) Next Episode, Please: How to Listen to Podcasts on Your Amazon Echo
Tap in to a variety of podcasts on your Echo via Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, and TuneIn:
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-listen-to-podcasts-on-your-amazon-echo
23) What's Coming In Windows 11 22H2
Get a sneak peek at the main features arriving with the first Windows 11 feature update this Fall:
https://www.computerworld.com/article/3664788/windows-11-22h2-new-features.html#tk.rss_all
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) AccessReady Reporter | Issue 28 | June 30th 2022
The Reporter Newsletter is a service of Access Ready Inc. which is an independent, non-profit, cross-disability education and advocacy organization promoting a policy of inclusion and accessibility of information and communications technology (ICT). For people with disabilities, accessible information and communications technology is a necessity, not a luxury or a convenience, which fosters independence, economic self-sufficiency, and active, meaningful participation in civic life:.
http://accessreadyreporter.org/issue-28-june-30-2022.html
2) DeafBlind Awareness Week 2022
Held the last week of June, DeafBlind Awareness Week commemorates the birthday of Helen Keller, born on June 27. Here is a good article about various events and resources:
https://www.lireo.com/deafblind-awareness-week-2022-how-you-can-participate/
3) DOJ Fails To Report On Making Federal Websites Accessible To Disabled People
It has been 10 years since the Department of Justice filed a biennial report on the federal government's compliance with accessibility standards for information technology, a bipartisan group of concerned senators say. The reports are required by Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act:
https://www.npr.org/2022/06/30/1108737968/federal-websites-accessible-disabled
4) Microsoft Helps Build Data Hub To Track Disabilities As Part Of Effort To Close 'Disability Divide'
This resource should make it easier to understand disability prevalence and related policy:
https://www.geekwire.com/2022/as-disability-numbers-rise-see-long-covid-for-one-microsoft-helps-global-effort-to-track-disabilities/
5) Society Wants You To Feel Ashamed Of Yourself | MIT Technology Review
Algorithm expert Cathy O'Neil has written a new book that shows how the tech world and society generally feeds off the idea of shame:
https://www.technologyreview.com/2022/06/29/1053985/society-shame-book-review/
6) Visually Impaired Cast Brings 'The Braille Legacy' To Life Onstage
"The Braille Legacy" is a musical about the boy who invented a system of reading and writing for the blind. It debuted to sellout crowds in Los Angeles in June, marking the first time the show had been performed in the U.S. — and the first time it was performed by a cast fully comprised of blind actors. The cast spoke with "LA Times Today." Coco Atama plays Louis Braille in "The Braille Legacy" and discussed why it's important for this musical to be staged:
https://spectrumnews1.com/ca/la-west/la-times-today/2022/06/29/a-visually-impaired-cast-brings--the-braille-legacy-to-life-onstage
7) June 2022 Outreach Update and the Blind Outdoor News by Lawrence Gunther
https://mailchi.mp/lawrencegunther/calling-all-youth-living-with-vision-loss-9061367?e=a3e74a1a08
8) Solve For Tomorrow 2022: Student Wins National Technology Competition Which Aims To Solve Global Social Issues
Inventor for MyVision wows judges with smart tech to help the visually impaired. Over 450 young entrepreneurs entered Samsung's tech for good competition 'Solve for Tomorrow.' An engineering student from Ilford has been crowned winner of a national competition that invites young people to solve some of the world's biggest issues:
https://news.samsung.com/uk/solve-for-tomorrow-2022-student-wins-national-technology-competition-which-aims-to-solve-global-social-issues
9) How Accessible is Reading Today?
In this day and age, reading as a skill is often taken for granted. How are you reading these words right now? For most people, it's likely that you're using your eyes, which transmit neural signals to your brain that allow you to connect the symbols on the screen with meaning. However, this experience isn't universal. There is a diverse range of readers, many with a wide range of vision, communication or other print impairments. Adjustments in the way we encourage reading have been made to cater to these groups, but new challenges arise every day. Take the Internet, which despite its benefits has given rise to a steadily growing 'digital divide' for blind or partially-sighted people. Below, we examine the accessibility behind reading more closely:
https://blog.yourdolphin.com/blog/how-accessible-is-reading-today
10) N.J. Runner Stepping Up To Raise Awareness For Blind And Visually Impaired Athletes
After years of perfecting her craft at running, Jasmine Murrell is going the distance to help other athletes who have visual impairments. The 33-year-old runner from Union County has been named an endurance ambassador for the U.S. Association of Blind Athletes, a role aimed at providing awareness about endurance sports events and other initiatives for runners who are blind or visually impaired:
https://www.nj.com/news/2022/06/nj-runner-stepping-up-to-raise-awareness-for-blind-and-visually-impaired-athletes.html
11) New AI Cane for the Visually Impaired | YouTube | Tech & Science Daily
A visually impaired university student and entrepreneur has created a brand new hi-tech version of the classic white cane, to help those with visual impairments. 19-year-old Ramneek Kaur Ahluwalia who's CEO of 'MyVision' said it uses AI, LiDAR and GPS technology, and can notify users with audio directions or haptic feedback. She has secured £10,000 in funding after winning the Samsung 'Solve For Tomorrow' national technology competition:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SfHtImc6AFQ
12) Designing Accessible Walking Routes for People With a Visual Impairment
Most of us take our navigation abilities for granted and instinctively use our sense of sight to help us find our way. However, for millions of people worldwide with visual impairments, wayfinding and navigation are a daily challenge. Pedestrians with visual impairments lack basic information about the spaces in which they are walking. This restricts and limits them, makes them dependent on others, harms their welfare, and negatively impacts them socially. Recently, a study was performed at the Technion in Israel, aimed at developing software and an application to design walking routes especially suited for the visually impaired population, focusing on their unique needs and preferences. This study offers an effective and practical solution for pedestrians who are visually impaired, which enhances their mobility, independence, and welfare, and thus enables them to engage more easily with society:
https://kids.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/frym.2022.853975
13) Egypt Inaugurates First Beach For The Visually Impaired In Alexandria
Alexandria Governor Mohamed El-Sherif recently inaugurated the beach for the visually impaired, allocating an area for it at the People of Determination beach in Mandara. "This beach comes as a continuation of efforts made by the Governorate of Alexandria to provide best services for people of determination, in order to achieve principles of community integration and create a decent life for them," El-Sherif said during the opening:
https://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/1/2/471002/Egypt/Society/Egypt-inaugurates-first-beach-for-the-visually-imp.aspx
14) Blind Chinese Make-Up Artist Teaches Thousands Of Visually Impaired Women To Apply Make-Up Using Sense Of Touch
At 14, Xiao Jia began losing her sight, by the time she was an adult she had taught herself how to apply her own make-up, today she teaches others using her sense of touch she feels the direction of false eyelashes, the texture of skin and facial features for where to apply different cosmetics:
https://www.scmp.com/news/people-culture/trending-china/article/3183512/blind-chinese-make-artist-teaches-thousands
15) Changes Are Coming To NC Schools For Deaf And Blind Students. See Who Will Run Them.
New groups are expected to take over running North Carolina's three residential schools for students who are deaf and/or visually impaired. The state Senate voted 40-4 on Friday to shift control of the Governor Morehead School for the Blind in Raleigh, the Eastern North Carolina School for the Deaf in Wilson and the North Carolina School for the Deaf in Morganton away from the State Board of Education. Under the legislation, each school would be run by a newly created board of trustees. The trustees would have wide-ranging power, such as hiring the school's director and setting admission criteria:
https://www.newsobserver.com/news/local/education/article263094968.html
➜ Surveys
1) APH Surveys Page
Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
2) Audible Vision Baseline Survey
This baseline survey aims to understand how assistive technology users conduct certain activities:
https://bit.ly/Audiblevision
3) Audible Vision App Survey
This survey aims to understand how assistive technology users use the Audible Vision app:
https://bit.ly/AudibleVisionForm2
4) NVDA Satisfaction Survey 2022
Nonvisual Desktop Access (NVDA) is asking users to complete a short satisfaction survey. It is at:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe-nr8XMipBx8jrXBTK7M_pxsw7GQR11Vt9E8VG52fK7op15Q/viewform
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther Episode 54: Outdoor Guide Dog Advocacy
June 26th 2022 | On this episode of AMI Audio's show Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther, the focus is outdoor adventuring with your guide dog. But first Ms. Lilly is going to recap the family's day on the Ottawa River fishing and boating on Fathers Day. Larissa Proctor, Manager of Guide Dog Advocacy for the CNIB, is going to tell us about the recent Guide Dog Advocacy Camp held at CNIB Lake Joe. Lawrence has some tips for taking your guide dog on watercraft. He also has some reflections to share on adventuring with guide dogs in outdoor spaces where the chance of encountering either wild or farm animals is high:
https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/episode-54-outdoor-guide-dog-advocacy/id1530444764?i=1000567762935
2) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 82: Managing The Wallpaper
July 2nd 2022 | In this podcast we first announce the growth of our YouTube subscriptions and viewership. We then have a chat with Karthik from Envision and got updated about the fact that Envision is now free for everyone without the need of a subscription and this takes place in mid-July. Be sure to hit that "update" (Envision v3) when it shows up as this will remove the paid subscription, making it free. Folks can still donate (if they choose to do so), as this helps in funding the project. Android Basics: In this week's section we continued our journey through the System Settings, and we turned our attention to the "Wallpaper" segment. Talkback Highlights: This week, we have installment 42 from the theme of "Highlights from Talkback" and this time, it's the 3-finger triple-tap gesture. This podcast can be found at:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqqXMlHrIBmSyoVbWLrMmcKz
3) Blind Abilities Podcast Episode #864, Breaking News: Aira Everywhere! Aira for the Desktop, Aira on the Shell Phone Classic, Aira on the ARX Headset and Aira on the Envision Glasses! Oh, the Possibilities are Coming!
July 4th 2022 | Aira Director of Communications, Jenine Stanley, joined Jeff Thompson in the Blind Abilities Studio and hits us up with some news breaking announcements. Aira Everywhere starts out with Aira for the Desktop. Now Aira will be available on the Mac, PC and on the iPad as a web based app where you can be hands free and use Team Viewer, Google Remote and much more. This will be open to a limited Public Beta at the end of July and you can sign up now on the web at Aira.io/choice. Be part of the Aira Beta Team and help break down barriers to access together. Aira on ArxHeadset: With a camera and bone-conduction speakers, the ArxHeadset will now have Aira loaded up and ready to explore. The BlindShell Phone: A limited beta will be out at the end of July and soon Aira will be an option on the BlindShell Classic. Aira on the Envision Glasses: Hands free and this may become a reality later this summer around August. Talks are on-going so cross our fingers:
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7448
4) Eyes on Success Episode 2227: Using MathML with JAWS
July 6th 2022 | Mathematics has been called the language of science. But how can a visually impaired person read and write complex mathematical expressions that are often written in a 2-D format? Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Ron Miller, Blindness Technology Products Specialist at Vispero, about how the JAWS screen reader makes this possible with MathML:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202227.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Accessible Book Apps | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
July 9th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Accessibility can mean smartphone, computer, e-reader, or smart device. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
2) Inaccessible to Accessible | SuperNova Everyday Essential Webinar
July 12th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | How to magnify or convert print and PDFs and how to customize your view of interactive whiteboards at work or school. Participate live every Tuesday 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT or watch the recordings at your leisure:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/en-us/supernova-everyday-essentials
3) Assistive Technology (AT) for Low Vision | Michigan Disability Rights Coalition
July 12th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Zoom presentation. Join the MI Assistive Technology Program as we highlight the many AT devices in our inventory for Low Vision.
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/assistive-technology-at-for-low-vision-registration-338359832367?aff=erelexpmlt&keep_tld=1
4) Ask Sharky: What Happened At the Conventions? | Freedom Scientific
July 12th 2022 | Join us for details on Vispero activities at the ACB and NFB conventions. Download the Clubhouse app from iOS App Store or Google Play to participate on your mobile device.
5) VoiceOver External Keyboard Basics with iPhone & iPad | Access Ingenuity
July 13th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Previously, we introduced VoiceOver gestures while working with an iPhone or iPad. While that option is always available, did you know there is a more efficient method of using an external keyboard to navigate, edit, and type large amounts of information if you already know how to work with a QWERTY keyboard? Join Rachel Reeves, Marisa Church, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity to explore VoiceOver keyboard basics to increase your efficiency while using VoiceOver with your iPhone and iPad. Learning Outcomes: External keyboard considerations, including USB and Bluetooth. How to connect a USB keyboard or pair a Bluetooth keyboard. Basic keyboard commands and how to perform them most efficiently. Turning on and off Quick Nav and editing basics. Join Zoom Meeting: Zoom Meeting for VoiceOver External Keyboard Basics with iPhone & iPad. | Meeting ID: 843 7682 5271 | Passcode: 525671 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,84376825271#,,,,*525671# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose):
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84376825271?pwd=YBrES1bQpOh3pZvAWqpu9aWQt4ypjX.1#success
6) Hiring for Cognitive Diversity in Tech | TPGi
July 13th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenter: Le McNamara, Accessibility Engineer. Join TPGi Accessibility Engineer, Le McNamara as they talk about, "Hiring for Cognitive Diversity in Tech." Hiring neurodivergent technologists can benefit your IT teams! Twenty technologists who identify as neurodiverse came forward, during a hackathon event, to share and record their experiences with the hiring process in tech. This talk will cover the common threads of those disclosures, the value of neurodivergent team members, and the experiences positive and negative that neurodivergent applicants face in looking for work within the tech sector and for technology roles in other industries. We'll be sharing what in the interview processes triggered negative outcomes and what behaviors and processes facilitated positive outcomes. We'll be making suggestions for changes hiring professionals can make as well as accommodations that can be asked for and should be expected. We'll also be talking about how to reach out to neurodiverse talent directly, to get back those that have given up, by working directly with services and communities:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-july-13-at-12pm-et-hiring-for-cognitive-diversity-in-tech/
7) Ask an ADA Professional A Question Regarding Communication Requirements Under the ADA | Accessibility Online
July 13th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | During this new program individuals will have the opportunity to ask ADA professionals questions about Communication Requirements under the ADA. To ensure your question is answered during the session, individuals are highly encouraged to submit their questions ahead of time via the registration website (option to submit questions is available once you have registered for the session):
https://www.accessibilityonline.org/adapro/session/?id=111003
8) ACB Community Event: Use The JAWS Skim = Reading Tool to Quickly Review Long Documents | Freedom Scientific
July 14th 2022 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Want to quickly review long documents and search for information? Join us to learn how to make the JAWS Skim-Reading tool work for you. American Council of the Blind. To request an invitation, email community@acb.org 📧️.
9) Ask Sharky: Use the JAWS Notification History | Freedom Scientific
July 19th 2022 | Learn to use the new Notification History feature in JAWS and Fusion, which enables you to control what notifications you hear. Download the Clubhouse app from iOS App Store or Google Play to participate on your mobile device.
10) Envision Glasses: Everything You Always Wanted to Know But Were Afraid to Ask | Access Ingenuity
July 20th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Did you know that Envision Glasses are built like a platform, and are constantly updated with new features and functionalities? With that in mind, we are excited to present the July 2022 edition of our Envision glasses presentation. This session will serve as an introduction to those new to the glasses, as well as a chance to review, learn about the latest features, or ask questions for those who have attended our previous webinars or who are the lucky owners of a pair. We may even get a visit from an Envision representative! Join Ian Ramos and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity as we look at the exciting new Envision glasses. Envision glasses use the cutting-edge Google Glasses platform as a way for visually impaired users to gain access to their environment. They provide 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. Learn more about the additional features these glasses offer and how they differ from other wearable technologies currently on the market. Learning Outcomes: 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 Envision glasses presentation. | Meeting ID: 844 9731 5433 | Passcode: 122811 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,84497315433#,,,,*122811# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose). Join:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84497315433?pwd=ScI1ThYtHUY1tcB0cf_AOoDqdlB908.1#success
11) Best Practices to Structure Accessibility Testing | TPGi
July 20th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | This webinar will cover common gaps in how organizations implement accessibility testing. These gaps complicate communication within an organization and lead to barriers for people with disabilities. Once the common gaps have been identified, we will review step-by-step instructions on how to reduce these gaps. Participants will leave with a clear plan for accessibility testing that is practical and sustainable. With this plan, organizations can increase the coverage and precision of their testing while decreasing the overall amount of test results. Additionally, participants will learn: The pros and cons of the different automated accessibility testing libraries and which one is right for their organization. The limitations of automated testing and how to bridge the gap with manual testing. How to track progress on errors and verify what's been fixed from one sprint to the next. While this webinar focuses on building accessibility testing skills with the ARC Platform, the lessons are applicable to all testing libraries. With the evolution of AI and machine learning, there are many new innovations in automated accessibility testing. This webinar evaluates their effectiveness and looks ahead to how they could affect accessibility testing. Register today:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-july-20-at-12pm-et-best-practices-to-structure-accessibility-testing/
12) JAWS Power Tips for Increasing Productivity at Work and at Play | Freedom Scientific
July 21st 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Want tips for improving productivity in apps such as Word, Teams, and Edge? Join us for a webinar on JAWS power tips! Register for this webinar, which offers ACVREP credits to those who attend the live webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_OwHsA3AJTMKeedGpAgBNzg
13) ACB Community Event: Schedule a Zoom Meeting Using JAWS | Freedom Scientific
July 21st 2022 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Find out how to schedule events on the Zoom conferencing platform with JAWS. American Council of the Blind. To request an invitation, email community@acb.org 📧️.
14) Snap & Read: 5 Essential Supports for Executive Function | Don Johnston
July 26th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Presented By: Stephanie Gilley. Executive function deficits — disorganization, poor time management, difficulty getting started with tasks — can keep bright learners from doing great things. And it can be tough to know how to help! Digital supports can empower students to stay organized, focused, and work independently, both at this point in their lives and in the future. In this webinar, Stephanie Gilley will demonstrate the top 5 tools that support learners with executive functioning difficulties: Read Aloud tools to support focus. Highlighting/Color Overlay/screen masking tool for help with visual tracking. A tool to reduce digital distractions. Note taking tools to help with organization. PDF annotation to help streamline tasks and assignments. Register to attend live or receive a recording:
https://learningtools.donjohnston.com/webinar/snapread-5-essential-supports-for-executive-function/
15) Methods to Navigate Word & Outlook Efficiently with JAWS Using Speech & Braille (ACVREP CE Approved) | Access Ingenuity
July 27th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Many JAWS users may know some features to quickly navigate specific increments and elements such as links, headings, forms, graphics, and tables when using a web browser. However, most do not know that there are similar JAWS features to increase efficiency when navigating Word documents and Outlook emails. Join Rachel Reeves, Marisa Church, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity with Joe McDaniel from Vispero to explore various JAWS Navigation Quick Keys with a browser, Word, and Outlook. It is important to note that this presentation will benefit those who want to know how to work with Navigation Quick Keys using JAWS with either a QWERTY keyboard or a Focus braille display. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: Introduce JAWS Navigation Quick Keys and how they can increase your efficiency when navigating a browser, Word, and Outlook. Understand how to turn on and off Navigation Quick Keys, when you want them on or off, and the JAWS default settings for Quick Keys in different situations. Discover how to learn the Quick Keys in different situations with the JAWS Screen Sensitive help. Explore Quick Key features such as links, headings, forms, tables, misspelled words, comments, track changes, etc. | Meeting ID: 872 7899 0752 | Passcode: 807757 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,87278990752#,,,,*807757# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87278990752?pwd=0bOnQubthYiLE-xJtf_PuOGsnBFL-F.1#success
16) How to Quickly Test Your Website for JAWS Screen Reader Compatibility | TPGi
July 27th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenters: Mike DeSorda, Customer Success Manager, and Al Puzzuoli, Customer Support. 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 quickly 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 JAWS Inspect alongside JAWS (or by itself) for quick and easy screen reader compatibility testing:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-july-27-at-12pm-et-quickly-test-your-website-for-jaws-screen-reader-compatibility/
17) Controlling Your World with Control Bionics from APTAT
July 27th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | APTAT Assistive Technology Training Series
Training Duration: 1 hour. An expanded training including an overview of using the Control Bionics device for communication as well as an environmental control unit. Registration is required. Accommodation requests should be made at least 2 weeks before the event date. We will do our best to coordinate any requests made within 2 weeks of the event, however please be aware we may not be able to honor the request on short notice. Certificate of Attendance is available for live attendees and can be requested during registration. This webinar will be recorded and archived on our YouTube channel: Accessing Potential Through Assistive Technology:
https://rehabalabama.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0scuCupjsrG9DYSokUMLLCB7Ck8WIqePKT
18) Ask Sharky: What Happened at the Association on Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD) Conference? | Freedom Scientific
July 27th 2022 | Join us for details on Vispero activities at the ACB and NFB conventions. Download the Clubhouse app from iOS App Store or Google Play to participate on your mobile device.
19) ACB Community Event: Ten JAWS Power Tips to Increase Productivity | Freedom Scientific
July 28th 2022 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Discover ten JAWS power tips for increasing productivity when navigating apps and completing tasks. American Council of the Blind. To request an invitation, email community@acb.org 📧️.
20) NaviLens and Apple air Tags | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
August 13th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Labeling and tracking just got a whole lot easier! Learn how to use these exciting new products. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
21) Pixel Phone | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
September 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Has Android bridged the gap with Apple with this remarkable new device? All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
22) iOS 16 Review And Editing Voice Memos | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
October 1st 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Every year we look for accessibility improvements in our i-devices. See what is new in this latest version of the Apple operating system. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
23) AT Gifts for the Holidays | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Our annual look at gadgets and gizmos that will make your holiday season a successful one. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
24) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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 New Braille Embosser Index Basic D Version 4 USB Retail Box
Listing Date: 6/23/2022 | Price: $1,200.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Hello, we have a practically new Index Basic D version 4 double sided Braille embosser with USB and many of the modern embosser features still in the retail box we can sell. It has never had any problems at all, it just has not been used . Asking $1200 OBO | Contact: Jay via email at: JS5lio021@gmail.com 📧️ or by phone / text at: (816) 659-0044 📱️. |
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)
➜ Start Your Coding Journey Today with APH's Road to Code!
Want to learn more about coding but don't know where to start? Look no further! APH's Road to Code provides a roadmap for coding progression through all our fun and engaging coding products.
https://bit.ly/3HueRfI
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: We're Exhibiting at both ACB and NFB Conventions
Barry, Kae, and Debra welcome you to our world of everything leather, dog, and gadget; and our "New" Evo 12 stereo Daisy player with 6 voices, $289; Hermione bottomless leather bag, $65; Titanium telescopic locking canes, $50; Next generation bone conduction headphones, $110; Talking medical bundle, $120; Soft absorbent doggie bathrobes, $30 - $35; Protective doggie winter jackets/raincoats, $30 - $40; Self-cleaning grooming brushes, $15 - $26, and much more! Come find us! For additional information, contact Barry Scheur at (617) 969-7500 📱️ / bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️ or Kae at (781) 286-1696 📱️ / guidelightdogs@gmail.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, affordable, 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
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: Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
➜ Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore: Touch Tomorrow in Today's Products
Serving blind people since 1999, we're a family-owned, forward-thinking company offering both tried-and-true and exciting new products for blind and low vision consumers. We design and carry self-voicing educational software, Braille supplies, talking gadgets, adapted household items, tactile card and board games, audible toys and gift ideas. Passionate about innovation, we've also created dozens of products from scratch when a suitable solution did not exist. Shop online at http://www.braillebookstore.com/ and enjoy fast, free shipping.
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: http://www.braillebookstore.com/ 🌐
Phone (Toll Free): (800) 987-1231 📱️
Fax (Toll Free): (800) 985-1231 ░
Email: Sales@BrailleBookstore.com 📧️
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time.
About: Welcome to Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore. We have been supplying products to blind people and their families since 1999. We offer thousands of Braille books, toys, games, kitchen aids, and talking products. We have unbeatable prices, fast, free shipping, and great customer service! We have tons of Braille books and cool products to choose from; so grab a cup of coffee, relax, and we'll give you a quick tour:
Products:
➜ Timekeeping
➜ Housewares
➜ On The Go
➜ Low Vision Products
➜ Toys and Games
➜ Gift Shop
➜ Braille Workshop
➜ Braille Bookstore
➜ Greeting Cards
➜ Copy Center
➜ Computer Lab
➜ Popular Products
➜ New Products
If you need some fresh ideas or have questions, you can also check out our Shopping Guides.
Sponsor: Fable
➜ Advance Your Career With Fable Pathways' Free, Accessible Online Learning
Fable Pathways helps you gain the skills that you need to work in the tech sector with a free, accessible, and on-demand program. Learn from industry leaders with disabilities to take your career to the next level, like Kelly Ford, Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, who introduces GitHub and VS Code using a screen reader. Spend less time and energy trying to access courses with your assistive technology and focus on the content that matters to you, with Fable Pathways' accessible platform. Sign up today!
https://tinyurl.com/25jwux3p
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: https://fablepathways.com/ 🌐
Email: community@makeitfable.com 📧️
Phone: (888) 212-3532 📱️ Extension 810
About: Just like curb cuts help everyone get on and off sidewalks, designing digital products with accessibility in mind helps make the internet more accessible for everyone. Fable is an accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities. Fable connects people with disabilities to accessibility managers, user researchers, designers, and developers to build incredible and accessible user experiences.
Opportunities:
➜ Fable Pathways: Fable Pathways is a free skill development program for people with disabilities interested in working in the tech sector. Sign up to take your career to the next level. Courses include "Getting started in web development" taught by Kelly Ford, a screen reader user, and Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, and "Becoming a manager" taught by Fable's Head of Accessibility Innovation, Kate Kalcevich. Instructors are subject matter experts in their fields and have lived experience with disability. Pathways courses are free, self-paced and assistive-technology-friendly. Sign up now at https://fablepathways.com/.
➜ Fable's Community of Accessibility Testers: Work from home to contribute to real changes in digital accessibility and make the internet a more accessible place for everyone. Ever leave a website because it was too hard to navigate? Because it was missing button labels? Because it didn't respond to voice commands? Us too. Our community of testers who use assistive technologies work from home and contribute to real changes in digital accessibility with recognizable brands. Earn money to share your feedback on websites and apps of your favorite brands and work with companies that care. No experience required and no resume required. Fable is looking for assistive technology users in the USA and Canada to work the hours that they want, from the comfort of their own homes. Learn more at https://fablepathways.com/community/.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ Join the Dolphin Friends Program
Dolphin Friends supports, recognizes, and rewards the great work that charities and sight loss societies do to support the people in their community who are visually impaired. Members receive free Dolphin software, staff training on GuideConnect and SuperNova, computing accessories and a useful resource pack to help you advise your service users on Dolphin assistive technology. Join Dolphin Friends:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/join-dolphin-friends-us
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Sponsor: Clusiv
➜ Looking For Blind Job-Seekers Wanting To Advance Their Salaries, Careers And Digital Accessibility For The Blind
Are you interested in learning new tech skills and working remotely while earning a competitive salary? At Clusiv.io we have created the world's first digitally accessible e-Learning platform built by the blind, and built for the blind. Visit the link provided and request Clusiv through your Vocational Rehab counselor for lifetime access to our e-Learning platform with courses such as Business Applications, JAWS, and more:
https://clusiv.io/
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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 from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Control the climate of your home independently! The VIP 3000 is a universal heating — cooling talking thermostat This accessible digital thermostat is specifically designed to offer audio playback of indoor temperature, temperature settings and programming instructions so blind and visually impaired users can independently & precisely manage their indoor comfort. Don't over pay. Read more at:
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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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
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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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!
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/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
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.
Your Name Here
2 of 18 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are 2 of 18 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, June 30, 2022 - Volume 865
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.
Subscribers: 7,302 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email. 123 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Save Up to $950 on Select HIMS Products When Attending ACB and NFB Summer Shows
Join HIMS at this year's ACB and NFB National Conventions and save big! HIMS is celebrating being back in person with the best saving of the year. You can save up to $950 on select products at both the ACB and NFB national conventions. Come visit the HIMS booth and check out the BrailleSense 6, the most powerful and advanced 32-cell, Google Certified braille notetaker available. If you want portability, the BrailleSense 6 mini is now shipping with the same power and performance, but with a slim and lightweight 20-cell design.
These savings are too good to last, so if you want to take advantage make sure to visit HIMS at these summer conventions. Savings on your next HIMS braille device will be announced at the shows. This sale is for US residents and attendees of the ACB and NFB national conventions only. Learn more at: https://hims-inc.com/
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: How To Use The Paste Recovery Table And Why You Might Want To (5.7% of all clicks.)
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/90.html
B.) Can You See Me: A New Windows Application to Assist in Determining Your Position in Your Computer's Camera (4.5% of all clicks.)
This app provides a much-needed service which is sadly missing from the Windows operating system. It requires no installation and no administrator permissions to run. Just run the app and keep pressing the enter key to receive information regarding your position in the computer's camera. It's incredibly useful to know if you're visually centered in your camera for Zoom, Teams, Skype or other video calls. You can read more about the app and download it here::
https://canyouseeme.app/
C.) Enhancements in JAWS 2022.2206.9 | June 2022 (3.9% of all clicks.)
A new JAWS update has been released by Freedom Scientific. Notification history, iTunes support, and Math Editor are among the enhancements:
https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/JAWS/JAWSWhatsNew#latest
D.) Tactile Engineering Reveals New Technology To Help The Blind (3.4% of all clicks.)
A Lafayette engineering firm has revealed technology that they claim will revolutionize the way blind people learn, work, and play. Tactile Engineering has developed a graphical computer tablet. The tablet includes 3,000 tiny parts that can change and act as interactive braille so users can experience animation. CEO David Schleppenbach said that the focus of this technology is overcome an important challenge; making it available and affordable to as many people as possible:
https://www.wlfi.com/news/tactile-engineering-reveals-new-technology-to-help-the-blind/article_58ebb9f6-edd4-11ec-b7a8-1388d420c617.html
E.) Reader Review: PenFriend 3 Voice Labeling System By Maxi Aids, Color Detector, Humanware Video Magnifier and Seeing AI (3.2% of all clicks.)
Courtesy of Gwen Costello Becker, Top Tech Tidbits Reader:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/92.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Click-To-Vote Quick Poll 864 Results | 310 Votes
Question: Should Top Tech Tidbits continue to include the actual link text for each Tidbit? Or should we change the format to link just the title of the Tidbit?
Results:
B.) I vote to keep the actual link text present for each Tidbit. I do not click links within the newsletter. I manually copy and paste them into a web browser. (212 Votes / 68% of all clicks.)
A.) I vote to link just the title of the Tidbit. I click the links to read Tidbits articles each week. (98 Votes / 32% of all clicks.)
And there you have it. Tidbits readers have spoken. We will keep the actual link text present for each Tidbit going forward. Thank you so much for your feedback.
3) Top Tech Tidbits Website Update Provides New Benefit To Sponsors
If you are a current or potential Sponsor please check out this update when you have a moment:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/95.html
4) Two Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Packages Currently Available
I am very, very happy to report that our waiting list has been cleared and there are currently two sponsorship packages available to any potential Sponsor that might wish to secure one. So if you've been thinking about joining us, now is the perfect opportunity. If you're not sure if Tidbits is the right fit for your business or organization I encourage you to consider a quarterly trial. After 3 months of exposure in Tidbits you can decide for yourself the true value of a Sponsorship position. I am making this announcement at 4:00 AM ET on Thursday, June 30th 2022. The first two potential sponsors to reach out to me at publisher@toptechtidbits.com will be provided with links to secure a package. You will be able to choose between our $325 per quarter option or our $1200 per year option. Please note that you will only have 72 hours to secure your package by paying for it before it will be offered to the next potential sponsor on our waiting list, if there is a waiting list at the time. When there is not, we will always keep your invoices active until there is. Please consider joining us. Become one of the 18 industry leaders that support the world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology while enjoying some really incredible benefits:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html
5) Reminder: 60 Most Clicked Tidbits Of The Last 3 Months For April, May And June Of 2022 To Be Released To Premium Subscribers on Monday, July 4th 2022
On Monday, July 4th 2022 at 4:00 AM ET all Top Tech Tidbits Premium Subscribers will receive their very first Top Tech Tidbits Premium Resource in the form of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits Of The Last 3 Months For April, May And June Of 2022. This special quarterly issue will be provided to Premium Subscribers as a native Microsoft Word document which will include full headings, links and abstracts to each of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits of the Last 3 Months. If you are a Sponsor or Supporter, then you are already a Premium Subscriber. If you are not already a Premium Subscriber, Sponsor or Supporter, there's still time to grab a Premium Subscription for just $1 a month:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/premium-subscribers.html#subscribe
6) CYBER.ORG Launches Project Access, a National Effort to Increase Access to Cybersecurity Education for Students with Disabilities
CYBER.ORG has announced the kickoff of Project Access, a program designed to expand access to cybersecurity education for blind and vision impaired students between the ages of 13-21 who are in pre-employment transition (Pre-ETS). Through the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency's Cybersecurity Education and Training Assistance Program (CETAP) grant, CYBER.ORG is pioneering a series of camps this summer in Arkansas, Maine, Virginia, and Michigan to introduce blind and vision impaired students to key cybersecurity topics, help them develop cybersecurity skills, and explore the possibility of a career in a growing industry:
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220627005666/en/CYBER.ORG-Launches-Project-Access-a-National-Effort-to-Increase-Access-to-Cybersecurity-Education-for-Students-with-Disabilities
7) JAWS for Windows with Microsoft Teams Power Tip: Navigating the Calendar with JAWS
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/97.html
8) Dolphin SuperNova Power Tip: Resolving Keyboard Conflicts With The Dolphin Cursor When Browsing The Web
Courtesy of Dolphin Computer Access:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/96.html
9) Reader Review: Black & Decker Talking Toaster Oven
Courtesy of Donna Jodhan, Top Tech Tidbits Reader:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/94.html
10) The Alt Text Issue
Here is a well-thought-out guide to alternative text, particularly for social media written by Alexa Heinrich:.
https://accessiblesocial.substack.com/p/june-28-2022
11) Audiom
Audiom is a tool that purports to allow blind and visually impaired individuals to view maps completely in audio. It is a web component and can be embedded into any webpage, like Google Maps:
https://www.ski.org/project/audiom
12) Introducing New Microsoft Teams On Web Features For Small Businesses
Captioning improvements are coming to Teams:.
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/microsoft-teams-blog/introducing-new-microsoft-teams-on-web-features-for-small/ba-p/3556209
13) What To Do If You Can No Longer Use Gmail With Your Favorite Program or Device | WebFriendlyHelp
Due to Google's increased security, you may find yourself unable to send email with your program of choice. If you want to keep using your existing email program, such as Outlook 2010, to read your Google email, read this for links to Google Settings and information:
https://webfriendlyhelp.com/what-to-do-if-you-can-no-longer-use-gmail-with-your-favorite-program-or-device/
14) NV Access In-Process For June 29th 2022
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-29th-june-2022/
15) First Look: Windows 11's New Sound Recorder App
The replacement for Voice Recorder gets a new name, a new look, and new input and output capabilities:
https://www.pcmag.com/news/first-look-windows-11s-new-sound-recorder-app
16) Date and Time Pickers for All | Adobe
We are very excited to announce the release of the React Aria and React Spectrum date and time picker components! This includes a full suite of fully featured components and hooks including calendars, date and time fields, and range pickers, all with a focus on internationalization and accessibility. It also includes @internationalized/date, a brand new framework-agnostic library for locale-aware date and time manipulation:
https://react-spectrum.adobe.com/blog/date-and-time-pickers-for-all.html
17) Googles Opens Accessibility Research Group To Start Accepting People That Reside Outside Of The US And Canada
Your feedback will help shape new Google products. To sign up, you'll need a Google Account. If you don't have one, you can create one. You will then pick one of the Trusted Tester Programs, Communications or Accessibility:
https://partnerdash.google.com/apps/uberfoodportal/join-a11y
18) #CSUNATC22 Audio: Inclusive Map Viewing Through Any Browser With Audiom
It would be truly wild if you could take the skills you have learned through playing audio games, like Swamp or Tactile Battle, and transfer them into real world Orientation and Mobility. Surprisingly enough, J.J. did just that when he spoke to Brandon Biggs, Engineer with the Smith-Kettlewell | Eye Research Institute, during our CSUN 2020 coverage:
https://www.blindbargains.com/bargains.php?m=22493
19) How the Notification History Coexists with our JAWS-Based Products | Brian Hartgen, Hartgen Consultancy
Many people will be aware that in the update to JAWS version 2022 just released, a feature is in place to support alerts and notifications sent by the focused application or Windows itself to the screen-reader. This was widely publicized in the Mosen at Large Podcast. Of course, Jonathan Mosen, host of the podcast, provided an excellent demonstration of the capabilities of the Notification History feature, together with describing the kinds of alerts and notifications which are sent to JAWS and which potentially can be filtered out or viewed in a list. In the interests of efficiency, some of our products have filtered out such alerts and notifications for some considerable time, so I want to tell you how our various products fit into the new tool Vispero are providing so you are not caught out:
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/2227
20) Narrator Braille Driver Improvements | Jeff Bishop, Windows Accessibility
My name is Jeff Bishop and I work on the Windows Accessibility team at Microsoft. We would encourage you to review our most recent Windows Insider blog post about some changes that we have brought to the Dev Channel for Narrator Braille. If you are participating in the Windows Insider program and are on the Dev Channel and have a braille display then we would appreciate your help in testing our new braille driver solution for Narrator along with third-party screen readers:
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/2226
21) June Updates for JAWS 2022 and Zoomtext 2022 | What's New
JAWS Updates: https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/JAWS/JAWSWhatsNew#Enhancements
ZoomText Updates: https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/Fusion/FusionWhatsNew#enhancements
22) Mantis Q40 and Chameleon 20 2.0 Update | YouTube | APH
Have you updated your Mantis Q40 or Chameleon 20? Our latest software update is jam-packed with features including one very exciting update to the Chameleon! Check out this video for a breakdown of the top features in 2.0:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=ButQDs8_a4I
23) Dicapta: Spanish Audio Description Services and Technology for Accessibility (Including Emergency Alerts)
Are you or a loved one a Spanish speaker who is blind, low vision, or deafblind? Read on to learn about an organization that makes audiovisual content and emergency alerts accessible to Spanish speakers with sensory
disabilities:
https://visionaware.org/blog/visionaware-blog/dicapta-spanish-audio-description-services-and-technology-for-accessibility-including-emergency-alerts/
24) Alexa To Add Voices Of Your Deceased Loved Ones
On June 22nd 2022 Amazon announced a new feature that will allow Alexa to speak in the voices of deceased relatives, friends and other loved ones:
https://fox8.com/news/alexa-to-add-voices-of-your-deceased-loved-ones/?fbclid=IwAR3LLcSr0L7JT5g5A6hTahGdK4NGJbn6mzlXsrxRvz2ZyRXsPfUKfiJjryk
25) Accessibility in Fedora Workstation
The first concerted effort to support accessibility under Linux was undertaken by Sun Microsystems when they decided to use GNOME for Solaris. Sun put together a team focused on building the pieces to make GNOME 2 fully accessible and worked with hardware makers to make sure things like Braille devices worked well. We even heard claims that GNOME and Linux had the best accessibility of any operating system for a while due to this effort. As Sun started struggling and got acquired by Oracle this accessibility effort eventually trailed off with the community trying to pick up the slack afterwards. Especially engineers from Igalia were quite active for a while trying to keep the accessibility support working well:
https://fedoramagazine.org/accessibility-in-fedora-workstation/
26) Experiment Shows Surprising Results Of Echolocation
Echolocation has been used as a way for blind people to navigate, despite the skill's usefulness, few blind people have actually learned how to use echolocation. Now, though, researchers say humans can learn echolocation in as little as 10 weeks:
https://coolblindtech.com/experiment-shows-surprising-results-of-echolocation/
27) 6 Accessibility Basics Cause 97% of Errors
I repeatedly encounter the same six issues when evaluating a website's accessibility, as do most consultants. I'd like to imagine a world where companies clean up most accessibility glitches in-house and hire consultants only to solve highly technical problems. Alas, many companies struggle with implementing the basics. Addressing the six common errors below solves many accessibility snafus, greatly helping vision-impaired users:
https://www.practicalecommerce.com/6-accessibility-basics-cause-97-of-errors
28) What's New in Mozilla Thunderbird 102
The first of several planned updates, Thunderbird 102, is about to start rolling out:
https://www.howtogeek.com/814358/whats-new-in-mozilla-thunderbird-102/
29) Audio Description Quality: Best Practices and Legal Standards
Video is everywhere. It's on our TVs, computers, smartphones, tablets, and even some smart refrigerators. But have you ever wondered how blind and low vision viewers access video content? To fully enjoy all the movies, TV shows, and other video content we so much love to watch, people with vision loss rely on audio description (AD) to access the visual elements of a video. Unfortunately, the quality of AD varies significantly among its providers. And so do consumer preferences on what visual information should be described, in how much detail, and how the descriptions should be voiced:
https://www.3playmedia.com/blog/audio-description-quality-best-practices-and-legal-standards/
30) Firefox 102: New ESR Base And Improved Security
One bug fix to Firefox 102 will be of relevance to screen reader users: Pressing Enter while using a Screen Reader on Windows no longer activates the wrong element and/or another window:
https://www.ghacks.net/2022/06/28/firefox-102/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) W3C To Become A Public-Interest Non-Profit Organization
The World Wide Web Consortium is set to pursue 501(c)(3) non-profit status. The World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) develops international standards for the Web: HTML, CSS, and notably, the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG):
https://www.w3.org/2022/06/pressrelease-w3c-le.html.en
2) Deafblind Teen Artist Creates NFT Collection To Spark Passion And Discussion
A Deafblind teen artist from Lancashire has created one of the first NFT collections of its kind to spread awareness about her disability. You can read more about this on the Lancashire Telegraph:
https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/deafblind-teen-artist-creates-nft-130000379.html?guccounter=1
3) Biden Administration Announces New At-Home Covid Tests For Blind And Low-Vision Americans
On June 23rd 2022 the Biden administration rolled out free at-home Covid-19 tests that are designed to be more accessible for people who are blind or visually impaired. White House Covid-19 response coordinator Dr. Ashish Jha said the administration will provide more accessible, rapid self-tests to Americans across the country for free through https://www.covid.gov/tests, which ships tests through the US Postal Service. The specific USPS form to place orders for Covid-19 tests that are more accessible to individuals with low vision or who are blind can be found here:
https://www.wsiltv.com/coronavirus/biden-administration-announces-new-at-home-covid-tests-for-blind-and-low-vision-americans/article_150cfed8-3f9a-5515-acfe-548d1d66d66d.html
4) Braille Institute Names Winners of the 2022 Braille Challenge
Celebrating more than 100 years of positively transforming the lives of those with vision loss, Braille Institute announced the winners of the 2022 Braille Challenge this past Saturday at the Finals Award Ceremony held at the University of Southern California campus:
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/braille-institute-names-winners-of-the-2022-braille-challenge-301576105.html
5) The Role of Technology in Helping Students with Limitations
Limitations come in all shapes and sizes. Some students have physical limitations that prevent them from being able to write, while others have cognitive limitations that make it difficult for them to process information. But there is one common thread among all students with constraints: the right technology can help them overcome their challenges and be successful in school:
https://www.studentassembly.org/assistive-technology-helping-students/
6) American Foundation for the Blind Announces Third Access and Engagement Report, Observing Impact of COVID-19 as Students with Visual Impairments Returned to In-Person Education
On June 23rd 2022 the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) announced the release of the third Access and Engagement research report, which examines the continued negative impact of systemic and COVID-19-specific issues on the education of students who are blind or have low vision. The report is based on focus groups and short surveys with families of these students and the professionals who serve them as the 2020-2021 school year concluded:
https://finance.yahoo.com/news/american-foundation-blind-announces-third-124300760.html
7) New Miami Lighthouse Podcast Focuses On Issues And Opportunities Facing The Blind And Visually Impaired
Miami Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired has launched a new podcast series that discusses medical, technological, legal, social and lifestyle issues impacting individuals with vision challenges and their families. Vision Insights has posted its first episodes, which can be heard on all major podcast outlets, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Audible and Amazon Music, as well as, the Miami Lighthouse website:
https://southfloridahospitalnews.com/new-miami-lighthouse-podcast-focuses-on-issues-and-opportunities-facing-the-blind-and-visually-impaired/
8) By the Blind, For the Blind
Why tools made by the blind, are the best for the blind:
https://write.as/devinprater/by-the-blind-for-the-blind
9) Some (More) Thoughts On Smart Canes | From The Blog Of Derek Reimer
In early 2021, I wrote a blog post about smart canes, why they usually are hype, and why canes have the design elements that make them so versatile. This blog post got a couple orders of magnitude more traffic than I expected, and based on the feedback I have received, it was much more educational than I would have expected. It has been posted on many peoples blogs, and even Hacker News. I want to make sure the positive reception of my article is used to guide the industry in an appropriate direction, and generate new useful technologies, instead of being cynical and bashing anyone who may have the thought to attach something to a cane. I will do this by explaining some of the drawbacks to having objects on a cane, and travel implements we could design that would achieve useful goals for blind people, while being more robust:
https://derekriemer.com/posts/2022/04/21/some-more-thoughts-on-smart-canes/
10) 'Calls Kept Coming': Ukraine's Network For The Blind Shelters Displaced People
One of country's oldest-running organizations turns factory into accommodation for refugees:
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jun/22/ukraine-network-visually-impaired-provides-shelter-displaced-people
11) MetroList of Northern California Launches Property Search by Voice — Search by Voice Helps the Visually Impaired Participate in Their Home Buying Process
MetroList, the largest Multiple Listing Service (MLS) in Northern California, now offers Search by Voice capabilities, powered by Lundy, Inc. through its newly released MetroList.com real estate search portal. Lundy is leading the way in developing the most comprehensive property search engine to help MLSs be more inclusive and accessible to blind or visually impaired consumers:
https://www.digitaljournal.com/pr/metrolist-launches-property-search-by-voice-search-by-voice-helps-the-visually-impaired-participate-in-their-home-buying-process
12) NSITE Now Offers Additional Resources to Blind and Visually-Impaired Job Seekers and Employers
NSITE, the first organization to provide a continuum of employment services for the blind or visually impaired, has announced an ever-expanding list of programs and resources to train and help place BVI and military veteran job seekers:
https://www.einnews.com/amp/pr_news/578834300/nsite-now-offers-additional-resources-to-blind-and-visually-impaired-job-seekers-and-employers
13) Blind Scientist Envisions A More Accessible World Through Inclusive Technology
After 20 years in academic research, Dr. Miele made a career shift into the tech space a few years ago by accepting a job as Principal Accessibility Researcher with Amazon. Now, he develops new ways to make Amazon's suite of products accessible to all users, making tools like Alexa, tablets, and TVs useable for the blind:
https://www.inspiremore.com/blind-scientist-envisions-a-more-accessible-world-through-inclusive-technology/
14) Envision Dallas Adds New Postpress Production Capabilities and Jobs for the Vision Impaired
Envision Dallas is partnering with Kolbus America to expand their operation and bring jobs to the Blind and Visually Impaired (BVI) community of Dallas, Texas. The Kolbus DA 270 will be operated by blind and visually impaired employees of Envision and will expand their capacity to meet increased customer demand of their award binders and retirement binders:
https://www.piworld.com/article/envision-adds-new-production-capabilities-jobs-vision-impaired/
15) Nurturing A New Generation Of Visually Impaired Leaders
Extant theatre company hopes sharing best practice across the industry will lead to increased sector opportunities for visually impaired talent:
https://www.artsprofessional.co.uk/news/nurturing-new-generation-visually-impaired-leaders
➜ Surveys
1) APH Surveys Page
Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
2) Audible Vision Baseline Survey
This baseline survey aims to understand how assistive technology users conduct certain activities:
https://bit.ly/Audiblevision
3) Audible Vision App Survey
This survey aims to understand how assistive technology users use the Audible Vision app:
https://bit.ly/AudibleVisionForm2
4) NVDA Satisfaction Survey 2022
Nonvisual Desktop Access (NVDA) is asking users to complete a short satisfaction survey. It is at:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe-nr8XMipBx8jrXBTK7M_pxsw7GQR11Vt9E8VG52fK7op15Q/viewform
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Recording: National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina: Good Maps | MP3
June 18th 2022 | Whether or not you are planning to go to New Orleans for our National convention? You should attend this technology presentation presented by the Computer Science & Technology Division of the NFB of SC. We will have a representative from Good Maps joining us to demonstrate the GPS Good Maps app. This app will allow you to keep track of the direction you are heading, what's around you, and the streets you are on/crossing:
https://nfbofsc.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Good-Maps-6-18-2022.mp3
2) Low Vision Devices Delivered Right to Your Door | Hadley Presents: A Conversation with the Experts
June 24th 2022 | CEO of Eschenbach Optik of America Ken Bradley joins the podcast to discuss how Eschenbach has adapted through the pandemic to help people with visual impairment access low vision devices remotely. Through their "Telelowvision" program, you can try out magnification devices from the comfort of your home to find what works best for you before you buy:
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/low-vision-devices-delivered-right-your-door
3) Mosen At Large Episode 185: RNZ Told To Lift Its Disability Game, ACB, NFB Andcovid19, And Part 2 Of The Blindshell 2 Review
4) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 81: It Is The Display
June 25th 2022 | In this episode we first talk about Google opening up their accessibility and research group to accept people residing outside of the US and Canada. We then take a look at the display settings on an Android phone. We demo the Christian teaching reading app. And then bring another Talkback Tip showing the cut text gesture. This episode can be found at:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqqEtCBn9K3VeWdiKWMxD-bh
5) Blind Abilities Podcast Episode #823, New! Tech Abilities: It Is HOT, And The Tech Tidbits Are Fast And Furious, And VR As A Vehicle Explained. News From A Blindness Perspective From Around The Globe And The Outhouse, Too.
June 27th 2022 | Serina, Callie and Jeff, dive deep into the pool of news stemming from Uber, Lyft, Microsoft, and you can check out the links and topics below. The TA Team take a journey into their Vocational Rehab experience and explain how VR impacted their destiny and how it is differed a bit for each of us. Join the Tech Abilities Crew and keep up with the latest news and Tech Tidbits from around the globe and always with a Blindness perspective. Everyone has a perspective, and we know we are not always seeing things the same way, so, let us know your perspective and give us a call at 612-367-6093, we would love to hear from you:
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7445
6) Eyes on Success Episode 2226: National Coding Symposium and STEM Camp
June 29th 2022 | The fields of computers and STEM offer excellent career opportunities for visually impaired people. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Leanne Grillot, outreach director at the American Printing House, about some of APH's ongoing programs to inspire interest in these fields, make people aware of the opportunities, and help them connect with mentors:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202226.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Accessible Book Apps | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
July 9th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Accessibility can mean smartphone, computer, e-reader, or smart device. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
2) Inaccessible to Accessible | SuperNova Everyday Essential Webinar
July 12th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | How to magnify or convert print and PDFs and how to customize your view of interactive whiteboards at work or school. Participate live every Tuesday 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT or watch the recordings at your leisure:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/en-us/supernova-everyday-essentials
3) VoiceOver External Keyboard Basics with iPhone & iPad | Access Ingenuity
July 13th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Previously, we introduced VoiceOver gestures while working with an iPhone or iPad. While that option is always available, did you know there is a more efficient method of using an external keyboard to navigate, edit, and type large amounts of information if you already know how to work with a QWERTY keyboard? Join Rachel Reeves, Marisa Church, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity to explore VoiceOver keyboard basics to increase your efficiency while using VoiceOver with your iPhone and iPad. Learning Outcomes: External keyboard considerations, including USB and Bluetooth. How to connect a USB keyboard or pair a Bluetooth keyboard. Basic keyboard commands and how to perform them most efficiently. Turning on and off Quick Nav and editing basics. Join Zoom Meeting: Zoom Meeting for VoiceOver External Keyboard Basics with iPhone & iPad. | Meeting ID: 843 7682 5271 | Passcode: 525671 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,84376825271#,,,,*525671# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose):
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84376825271?pwd=YBrES1bQpOh3pZvAWqpu9aWQt4ypjX.1#success
4) Hiring for Cognitive Diversity in Tech | TPGi
July 13th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenter: Le McNamara, Accessibility Engineer. Join TPGi Accessibility Engineer, Le McNamara as they talk about, "Hiring for Cognitive Diversity in Tech." Hiring neurodivergent technologists can benefit your IT teams! Twenty technologists who identify as neurodiverse came forward, during a hackathon event, to share and record their experiences with the hiring process in tech. This talk will cover the common threads of those disclosures, the value of neurodivergent team members, and the experiences positive and negative that neurodivergent applicants face in looking for work within the tech sector and for technology roles in other industries. We'll be sharing what in the interview processes triggered negative outcomes and what behaviors and processes facilitated positive outcomes. We'll be making suggestions for changes hiring professionals can make as well as accommodations that can be asked for and should be expected. We'll also be talking about how to reach out to neurodiverse talent directly, to get back those that have given up, by working directly with services and communities:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-july-13-at-12pm-et-hiring-for-cognitive-diversity-in-tech/
5) Envision Glasses: Everything You Always Wanted to Know But Were Afraid to Ask | Access Ingenuity
July 20th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Did you know that Envision Glasses are built like a platform, and are constantly updated with new features and functionalities? With that in mind, we are excited to present the July 2022 edition of our Envision glasses presentation. This session will serve as an introduction to those new to the glasses, as well as a chance to review, learn about the latest features, or ask questions for those who have attended our previous webinars or who are the lucky owners of a pair. We may even get a visit from an Envision representative! Join Ian Ramos and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity as we look at the exciting new Envision glasses. Envision glasses use the cutting-edge Google Glasses platform as a way for visually impaired users to gain access to their environment. They provide 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. Learn more about the additional features these glasses offer and how they differ from other wearable technologies currently on the market. Learning Outcomes: 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 Envision glasses presentation. | Meeting ID: 844 9731 5433 | Passcode: 122811 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,84497315433#,,,,*122811# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose). Join:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84497315433?pwd=ScI1ThYtHUY1tcB0cf_AOoDqdlB908.1#success
6) Best Practices to Structure Accessibility Testing
July 20th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | This webinar will cover common gaps in how organizations implement accessibility testing. These gaps complicate communication within an organization and lead to barriers for people with disabilities. Once the common gaps have been identified, we will review step-by-step instructions on how to reduce these gaps. Participants will leave with a clear plan for accessibility testing that is practical and sustainable. With this plan, organizations can increase the coverage and precision of their testing while decreasing the overall amount of test results. Additionally, participants will learn: The pros and cons of the different automated accessibility testing libraries and which one is right for their organization. The limitations of automated testing and how to bridge the gap with manual testing. How to track progress on errors and verify what's been fixed from one sprint to the next. While this webinar focuses on building accessibility testing skills with the ARC Platform, the lessons are applicable to all testing libraries. With the evolution of AI and machine learning, there are many new innovations in automated accessibility testing. This webinar evaluates their effectiveness and looks ahead to how they could affect accessibility testing. Register today:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-july-20-at-12pm-et-best-practices-to-structure-accessibility-testing/
7) Methods to Navigate Word & Outlook Efficiently with JAWS Using Speech & Braille (ACVREP CE Approved) | Access Ingenuity
July 27th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Many JAWS users may know some features to quickly navigate specific increments and elements such as links, headings, forms, graphics, and tables when using a web browser. However, most do not know that there are similar JAWS features to increase efficiency when navigating Word documents and Outlook emails. Join Rachel Reeves, Marisa Church, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity with Joe McDaniel from Vispero to explore various JAWS Navigation Quick Keys with a browser, Word, and Outlook. It is important to note that this presentation will benefit those who want to know how to work with Navigation Quick Keys using JAWS with either a QWERTY keyboard or a Focus braille display. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: Introduce JAWS Navigation Quick Keys and how they can increase your efficiency when navigating a browser, Word, and Outlook. Understand how to turn on and off Navigation Quick Keys, when you want them on or off, and the JAWS default settings for Quick Keys in different situations. Discover how to learn the Quick Keys in different situations with the JAWS Screen Sensitive help. Explore Quick Key features such as links, headings, forms, tables, misspelled words, comments, track changes, etc. | Meeting ID: 872 7899 0752 | Passcode: 807757 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,87278990752#,,,,*807757# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87278990752?pwd=0bOnQubthYiLE-xJtf_PuOGsnBFL-F.1#success
8) How to Quickly Test Your Website for JAWS Screen Reader Compatibility | TPGi
July 27th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenters: Mike DeSorda, Customer Success Manager, and Al Puzzuoli, Customer Support. 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 quickly 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 JAWS Inspect alongside JAWS (or by itself) for quick and easy screen reader compatibility testing:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-july-27-at-12pm-et-quickly-test-your-website-for-jaws-screen-reader-compatibility/
9) NaviLens and Apple air Tags | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
August 13th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Labeling and tracking just got a whole lot easier! Learn how to use these exciting new products. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
10) Pixel Phone | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
September 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Has Android bridged the gap with Apple with this remarkable new device? All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
11) iOS 16 Review And Editing Voice Memos | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
October 1st 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Every year we look for accessibility improvements in our i-devices. See what is new in this latest version of the Apple operating system. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
12) AT Gifts for the Holidays | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Our annual look at gadgets and gizmos that will make your holiday season a successful one. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
13) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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 New Braille Embosser Index Basic D Version 4 USB Retail Box
Listing Date: 6/23/2022 | Price: $1,200.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Hello, we have a practically new Index Basic D version 4 double sided Braille embosser with USB and many of the modern embosser features still in the retail box we can sell. It has never had any problems at all, it just has not been used . Asking $1200 OBO | Contact: Jay via email at: JS5lio021@gmail.com 📧️ or by phone / text at: (816) 659-0044 📱️. |
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: We're Exhibiting at both ACB and NFB Conventions
Barry, Kae, and Debra welcome you to our world of everything leather, dog, and gadget; and our "New" Evo 12 stereo Daisy player with 6 voices, $289; Hermione bottomless leather bag, $65; Titanium telescopic locking canes, $50; Next generation bone conduction headphones, $110; Talking medical bundle, $120; Soft absorbent doggie bathrobes, $30 - $35; Protective doggie winter jackets/raincoats, $30 - $40; Self-cleaning grooming brushes, $15 - $26, and much more! Come find us! For additional information, contact Barry Scheur at (617) 969-7500 📱️ / bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️ or Kae at (781) 286-1696 📱️ / guidelightdogs@gmail.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, affordable, 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
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: Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
➜ Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore: Touch Tomorrow in Today's Products
Serving blind people since 1999, we're a family-owned, forward-thinking company offering both tried-and-true and exciting new products for blind and low vision consumers. We design and carry self-voicing educational software, Braille supplies, talking gadgets, adapted household items, tactile card and board games, audible toys and gift ideas. Passionate about innovation, we've also created dozens of products from scratch when a suitable solution did not exist. Shop online at http://www.braillebookstore.com/ and enjoy fast, free shipping.
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: http://www.braillebookstore.com/ 🌐
Phone (Toll Free): (800) 987-1231 📱️
Fax (Toll Free): (800) 985-1231 ░
Email: Sales@BrailleBookstore.com 📧️
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time.
About: Welcome to Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore. We have been supplying products to blind people and their families since 1999. We offer thousands of Braille books, toys, games, kitchen aids, and talking products. We have unbeatable prices, fast, free shipping, and great customer service! We have tons of Braille books and cool products to choose from; so grab a cup of coffee, relax, and we'll give you a quick tour:
Products:
➜ Timekeeping
➜ Housewares
➜ On The Go
➜ Low Vision Products
➜ Toys and Games
➜ Gift Shop
➜ Braille Workshop
➜ Braille Bookstore
➜ Greeting Cards
➜ Copy Center
➜ Computer Lab
➜ Popular Products
➜ New Products
If you need some fresh ideas or have questions, you can also check out our Shopping Guides.
Sponsor: Fable
➜ Advance Your Career With Fable Pathways' Free, Accessible Online Learning
Fable Pathways helps you gain the skills that you need to work in the tech sector with a free, accessible, and on-demand program. Learn from industry leaders with disabilities to take your career to the next level, like Kelly Ford, Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, who introduces GitHub and VS Code using a screen reader. Spend less time and energy trying to access courses with your assistive technology and focus on the content that matters to you, with Fable Pathways' accessible platform. Sign up today!
https://tinyurl.com/25jwux3p
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: https://fablepathways.com/ 🌐
Email: community@makeitfable.com 📧️
Phone: (888) 212-3532 📱️ Extension 810
About: Just like curb cuts help everyone get on and off sidewalks, designing digital products with accessibility in mind helps make the internet more accessible for everyone. Fable is an accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities. Fable connects people with disabilities to accessibility managers, user researchers, designers, and developers to build incredible and accessible user experiences.
Opportunities:
➜ Fable Pathways: Fable Pathways is a free skill development program for people with disabilities interested in working in the tech sector. Sign up to take your career to the next level. Courses include "Getting started in web development" taught by Kelly Ford, a screen reader user, and Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, and "Becoming a manager" taught by Fable's Head of Accessibility Innovation, Kate Kalcevich. Instructors are subject matter experts in their fields and have lived experience with disability. Pathways courses are free, self-paced and assistive-technology-friendly. Sign up now at https://fablepathways.com/.
➜ Fable's Community of Accessibility Testers: Work from home to contribute to real changes in digital accessibility and make the internet a more accessible place for everyone. Ever leave a website because it was too hard to navigate? Because it was missing button labels? Because it didn't respond to voice commands? Us too. Our community of testers who use assistive technologies work from home and contribute to real changes in digital accessibility with recognizable brands. Earn money to share your feedback on websites and apps of your favorite brands and work with companies that care. No experience required and no resume required. Fable is looking for assistive technology users in the USA and Canada to work the hours that they want, from the comfort of their own homes. Learn more at https://fablepathways.com/community/.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ Join the Dolphin Friends Program
Dolphin Friends supports, recognizes, and rewards the great work that charities and sight loss societies do to support the people in their community who are visually impaired. Members receive free Dolphin software, staff training on GuideConnect and SuperNova, computing accessories and a useful resource pack to help you advise your service users on Dolphin assistive technology. Join Dolphin Friends:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/join-dolphin-friends-us
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Sponsor: Clusiv
➜ Looking For Blind Job-Seekers Wanting To Advance Their Salaries, Careers And Digital Accessibility For The Blind
Are you interested in learning new tech skills and working remotely while earning a competitive salary? At Clusiv.io we have created the world's first digitally accessible e-Learning platform built by the blind, and built for the blind. Visit the link provided and request Clusiv through your Vocational Rehab counselor for lifetime access to our e-Learning platform with courses such as Business Applications, JAWS, and more:
https://clusiv.io/
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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 from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Control the climate of your home independently! The VIP 3000 is a universal heating — cooling talking thermostat This accessible digital thermostat is specifically designed to offer audio playback of indoor temperature, temperature settings and programming instructions so blind and visually impaired users can independently & precisely manage their indoor comfort. Don't over pay. Read more at:
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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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
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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Start Your Coding Journey Today with APH's Road to Code!
Want to learn more about coding but don't know where to start? Look no further! APH's Road to Code provides a roadmap for coding progression through all our fun and engaging coding products.
https://bit.ly/3HueRfI
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.
Your Name Here
2 of 18 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are 2 of 18 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, June 23, 2022 - Volume 864
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, June 23, 2022 - Volume 864
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.
Subscribers: 7,286 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email. 117 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Hot New Items, Convention Preorders, and Lots of Convention Deals from the A. T. Guys
Whether attending convention in-person, virtually, or not at all, A. T. Guys is ready to make your summer sizzle. Check out our new portable audible light detector, great for hearing if the lights or computer screen is on. The BlindShell keeps getting better, and will soon support AIRA. Plus we have beepers, batteries & cases to go with it. Check out the Versa paperless Slates along with new 2 and 3-section cases. Don't let your phone die at session. Our accessible power banks come in two sizes. Our noise canceling headsets are back, & we have both one-ear and two-ear options. Or check out our wireless buds. Need keyboards or loud Bluetooth speakers? We've got those. Leave your charger at home? We've got you covered. We're at booth 26 at ACB, and Booth A11 at NFB. Use coupons ACB22 or NFB22 to preorder for convention pickup. Or if virtual, use coupon TIDBITS for free shipping on orders of $99 or more for U.S. customers through June 30th 2022. Visit https://www.atguys.com/tidbits today or call (269) 216-4798 📱️.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Taking Notes Using The Voice Memo App for iPhone (9.1% of all clicks.)
Courtesy of the Technology User Group (TUG) at the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled (LBPD):
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/88.html
B.) How to Get a List of Directions in Apple Maps (7.2% of all clicks.)
Cool Blind Tech has given us step-by-step directions to get the list of instructions that will be used in the Apple Maps directions:
https://coolblindtech.com/how-to-get-a-list-of-directions-in-apple-maps/
C.) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: Creating Headings in Microsoft Word (7.0% of all clicks.)
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/86.html
D.) How to Use Microsoft Word for Free (6.9% of all clicks.)
No hacks or questionable software purchases here. This comes to us from Wired Magazine. If you don't want to pay for the word processor, and Google Docs won't work for what you need, you have options:
https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-use-microsoft-word-for-free/
E.) Mechanical Engineering Students Design a Unique Electronic Travel Aid for the Visually Impaired (6.4% of all clicks.)
Currently, most visually impaired individuals rely on external forces to help guide them safely, the most common include a site guide, dog or white cane. Lahmann and Taylor wanted to create a device for independence, something that is sorely lacking in the market. They also wanted it to be discreet and hands free:
https://www.rose-hulman.edu/news/2022/mechanical-engineering-students-design-a-unique-electronic-travel-aid-for-the-visually-impaired.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Welcomes Fable
Please join all of us here at Top Tech Tidbits in welcoming aboard Fable, who has generously agreed to support the distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication via sponsorship for the next year. Enterprises use Fable Engage to connect to people with disabilities for user research and accessibility testing. Fable Upskill provides custom training for digital teams to gain the skills to build inclusive products. Learn more about why leading organizations use Fable today at:
https://fablepathways.com/
3) Top Tech Tidbits Welcomes Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
Please join all of us here at Top Tech Tidbits in welcoming aboard Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore, who has generously agreed to support the distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication via sponsorship for the next year. Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore has been supplying products to blind people and their families since 1999. They offer thousands of Braille books, toys, games, kitchen aids, and talking products. They offer unbeatable prices, fast, free shipping, and great customer service. Learn more today at:
http://www.braillebookstore.com/
4) Top Tech Tidbits Publisher Updates for June 23rd 2022
Updates this week include: | A Final Update on Sponsorship Package Availability | Top Tech Tidbits Seeking AT Product and Service Reviews | Why Isn't My Podcast Published in Top Tech Tidbits?
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/91.html
5) Reminder: 60 Most Clicked Tidbits Of The Last 3 Months For April, May And June Of 2022 Will Be Released To Premium Subscribers on Monday, July 4th 2022
On Monday, July 4th 2022 at 4:00 AM ET all Top Tech Tidbits Premium Subscribers will receive their very first Top Tech Tidbits Premium Resource in the form of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits Of The Last 3 Months For April, May And June Of 2022. This special quarterly issue will be provided to Premium Subscribers as a native Microsoft Word document which will include full headings, links and abstracts to each of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits of the Last 3 Months. If you are a Sponsor or Supporter, then you are already a Premium Subscriber. If you are not already a Premium Subscriber, Sponsor or Supporter, there's still time to grab a Premium Subscription for just $1 a month:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/premium-subscribers.html#subscribe
6) Top Tech Tidbits Click-To-Vote Quick Poll #864: Should Top Tech Tidbits continue to include the actual link text for each Tidbit? Or should we change the format to link just the title of the Tidbit?
We need your help in deciding the answer to a question that could impact the way in which future issues of Top Tech Tidbits are delivered. If you are a Top Tech Tidbits reader, please help us by casting a vote. Our question is this. Should Top Tech Tidbits continue to include the actual link text for each Tidbit? Or should we change the format to link just the title of the Tidbit? Changing the format to link just the title of the Tidbit would cut the character count for the entire newsletter nearly in half, which would not just make Tidbits more deliverable from a spam filter perspective, but would also give us a lot more room to grow different sections of the publication. That said, if doing this breaks the reading experience for even a handful of readers, I'm not sure we could justify going forward with it. Hence this Quick Poll. We need to understand how many readers, if any, still fall back on the native link text in order to read an article. This would mean that you do not click links within the newsletter, but instead manually copy and paste them into a web browser. Examples of both the current and new formats below. Same Tidbit. Two different structures. Both lead to https://www.toptechtidbits.com. Please share your thoughts with us using the Click-To-Vote Links below:
Example A) Current Tidbit Structure. Title Not Linked. Native Link Text Included Below
This text provides a brief description of the Tidbit titled above.
https://www.toptechtidbits.com
Example B) New Tidbit Structure. Title Linked. Native Link Text Not Included Below
This text provides a brief description of the Tidbit titled above.
A.) I vote to keep the actual link text present for each Tidbit. I do not click links within the newsletter. I manually copy and paste them into a web browser.
Click-To-Vote Link: https://bit.ly/ttt-poll864-a
B.) I vote to link just the title of the Tidbit. I always click the links to read Tidbits articles each week.
Click-To-Vote Link: https://bit.ly/ttt-poll864-b
7) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: How To Use The Paste Recovery Table And Why You Might Want To
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/90.html
8) Dolphin SuperNova Power Tip: Extracting Text From An Image Copied To The Clipboard
Courtesy of Dolphin Computer Access:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/93.html
9) Reader Review: PenFriend 3 Voice Labeling System By Maxi Aids, Color Detector, Humanware Video Magnifier and Seeing AI
Courtesy of Gwen Costello Becker, Top Tech Tidbits Reader:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/92.html
10) Putting Websites on the Home Screen on iPhone
Courtesy of the Technology User Group (TUG) at the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled (LBPD):
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/89.html
11) Can You See Me: A New Windows Application to Assist in Determining Your Position in Your Computer's Camera
This app provides a much-needed service which is sadly missing from the Windows operating system. It requires no installation and no administrator permissions to run. Just run the app and keep pressing the enter key to receive information regarding your position in the computer's camera. It's incredibly useful to know if you're visually centered in your camera for Zoom, Teams, Skype or other video calls. You can read more about the app and download it here:
https://canyouseeme.app/
12) NV Access In-Process for June 16th 2022
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-16th-june-2022/
13) From the June 2022 Braille Monitor: TalkBack and VoiceOver: There is a Choice After All
June 29th 2022 will mark the 15-year anniversary of the launch of the iPhone, which ushered in the age of the smartphone. Just over a year later, on September 23, 2008, HTC released the Dream, running on the Android operating system. Perhaps of greater significance to this magazine's readership, VoiceOver launched in 2009, making smartphones accessible to blind people. Not long after, the Android operating system also began supporting some rudimentary features to assist those with blindness or low vision. From those early days, however, Apple's accessibility provided a truly superior experience, but at a significant financial cost. Back then, iPhone models typically cost significantly more than hardware that runs Android. And honestly, that cost difference has changed little over the intervening years. With the sheer magnitude of tasks that can be performed on a smartphone today — banking, scheduling, communication, ride hailing, navigation, not to mention social engagement on a myriad of social media platforms — the need for equal access for blind people to this technology is paramount:
https://nfb.org//images/nfb/publications/bm/bm22/bm2206/bm220611.htm
14) iOS 16 Will Let You Bypass Captchas On Some Apps And Websites
When iOS 16 comes out later this fall, you may notice that you don't have to deal with as many annoying CAPTCHAs asking you to slide a puzzle piece or distinguish between a hill and a mountain. That's because Apple's introducing a feature for its iPhones and Macs called Automatic Verification, which let some sites know that you're not a bot without you actually having to do anything:
https://www.theverge.com/2022/6/20/23175765/apple-ios-16-captcha-private-access-tokens
15) Tactile Engineering Reveals New Technology To Help The Blind
A Lafayette engineering firm has revealed technology that they claim will revolutionize the way blind people learn, work, and play. Tactile Engineering has developed a graphical computer tablet. The tablet includes 3,000 tiny parts that can change and act as interactive braille so users can experience animation. CEO David Schleppenbach said that the focus of this technology is overcome an important challenge; making it available and affordable to as many people as possible:
https://www.wlfi.com/news/tactile-engineering-reveals-new-technology-to-help-the-blind/article_58ebb9f6-edd4-11ec-b7a8-1388d420c617.html
16) So Long, Internet Explorer
As of June 15th 2022 Microsoft will no longer support the once-dominant browser that legions of web surfers loved to hate — and a few still claim to adore. The 27-year-old application now joins BlackBerry phones, dial-up modems and Palm Pilots in the dustbin of tech history:
https://apnews.com/article/internet-explorer-shutting-down-e45abf1df9d34c135e41a01cf7d96c25
17) The Ghost of Internet Explorer Will Haunt the Web for Years | Wired
Microsoft's legacy browser may be dead — but its remnants are not going anywhere, and neither are its lingering risks:
https://www.wired.com/story/internet-explorer-dead-security-risks/
18) Enhancements in JAWS 2022.2206.9 | June 2022
A new JAWS update has been released by Freedom Scientific. Notification history, iTunes support, and Math Editor are among the enhancements:
https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/JAWS/JAWSWhatsNew#latest
19) How The Notification History Coexists With Our JAWS-Based Products
Brian Hartgen explains how the new notification functionality will coexist with Leasey, Zoom, and Teams scripts:
http://www.hartgen.org/node/580
20) Enhancements in ZoomText 2022.2206.7 | June 2022
A new ZoomText update has been released as well. Additional UI languages, improved Acrobat DC support, and improved curser and focus enhancement support are among some of the changes:
https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/Fusion/FusionWhatsNew#latest
21) Voice Dream Reader for Desktop
Continuing with software updates, there is also a new release for Voice Dream Reader for Desktop. The ability to export audio and text files are among the improvements:
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/voice-dream-reader-for-desktop/id972112040?mt=12
22) Chameleon Version 2.0.0
And finally, there has also been an update to the Chameleon braille display. It now includes text-to-speech functionality:
https://www.aph.org/release-notes/
23) Getting Started with Android: Android and TalkBack for the Beginning User (Android S, 12) | Mystic Access via National Braille Press | $26 - $28.50
Note: The DAISY edition of this book will be ready later in April 2022, but you can place an order for it now. If you are curious about the Android operating system and its built-in screen reader, TalkBack, this book is a comprehensive overview for beginners and novices alike. Kim and Chris Nova get down to the basics to help you decide whether Android is a good fit for you. Coverage includes: Android basics; choosing a device; security and customization; setting up and configuring your phone; navigational gestures; essential Android functions and screens; important apps for staying connected and organized; editing and manipulating text; Bluetooth, external keyboards, and keyboard commands; and much more:
https://www.nbp.org/ic/nbp/ANDROID-2022.html?from_search=1
24) Laptop Ports Explained: Every Symbol And Connector Identified
This handy guide will help you understand all of the laptop ports, past and present:
https://www.pcworld.com/article/706969/laptop-ports-symbols-explained.html
25) Introducing the Wayband ®
WearWorks is a haptic platform company that builds products and experiences that communicate information through touch. The WAYBAND ® is a haptic navigation app and optional smart band that gently navigates a person to a destination using vibrations, without the need for visual or audio feedback. For more information, send an email to:
hello@wear.works 📧️
26) NLS Launches Braille-on-Demand Pilot Project
As part of its braille modernization initiative, NLS launched the Braille-on-Demand pilot project on Monday, June 20, 2022. This project allows active NLS patrons to request and receive one hard-copy braille title per month, which they can retain for their personal use. If an individual who is not registered as a patron submits an order, NLS will refer the individual to their local network library to begin the process of becoming a patron:
https://www.braillists.org/uncategorised/nls-launches-braille-on-demand-pilot-project/
27) Use Alexa to Talk with a Doctor
If you have an Amazon Echo, Echo Dot or Echo Show device, you can now summon medical care with a simple voice command. Echo users can say, "Alexa, I want to talk to a doctor" to be connected with the Teledoc call center, and then a Teledoc health provider will call back through the device. This fully remote service will be available 24/7 for non-emergency needs — like allergies or colds — and will initially be audio-only. For people with insurance, the out-of-pocket cost will vary depending on coverage.
28) Tiger Software Suite is Upgrading
If you own a PixBlaster embosser, you are probably already familiar with Tiger Software Suite (TSS) since your embosser came with a free license. If you're not familiar, know that TSS is a popular collection of apps for creating and editing both braille and tactile graphics. Now TSS is offering a paid upgrade from version 7 to 8 and bringing with it a whole lot of improvements! Please note the cost of the upgrade is not Federal Quota eligible and that the upgrade is entirely optional. If you choose not to update, you'll be able to continue using TSS 7 the same as you did before. Nothing will change about how you use your embosser; you just won't get the features listed below:
https://www.aph.org/attention-tiger-software-suite-is-upgrading/
29) Talking Online Crossword Puzzles
If you're a crossword puzzle fan, and frustrated by the lack of accessibility, you may want to check out https://bgspeaking.com/word-speaking-vocal-crossword. Also available in the Apple App Store and Google Play as "Word Speaking Vocal Crossword", these crosswords speak to you! In the app, you get two free puzzles to try. The letters are large, with a tactile option, too. For more details, visit the blog at:
https://tinyurl.com/mwavb7b2
30) The 13 Top New Features in Android 13 — and How to Install It
Here's what's coming in the latest version of Google's mobile operating system, which arrives later this year:
https://www.wired.com/story/android-13-features-and-how-to-download/
31) Accessible Medication Labels
WayTag Audio Labels can now be added to prescriptions, vitamins, and supplements filled through Accessible Pharmacy. Labels will include the medication name, directions, important dates, and more. All accessible packaging, accessible labeling and delivery are FREE. For more information, contact:
info@accessiblepharmacy.com 📧️
32) Microsoft 'Defender' Service to Protect Android, iOS, MacOS Devices
The company adds a new perk to Microsoft 365 subscriptions called Microsoft Defender, which offers cross-platform protection against malware and phishing threats:
https://www.pcmag.com/news/microsoft-defender-service-to-protect-android-ios-macos-devices
33) How to Use Door Detection in iOS 16
People with difficulty seeing or judging distances can have issues with doors. They may not see them at all, or maybe can't tell how far away the door is. Such folks may struggle to determine whether the door swings open, where the door knob is, and so forth. That's where Door Detection, a new Accessibility feature in iOS 16, comes in. Where do you Find Door Detection in iOS 16? Apple has included Door Detection in its Magnifier app. You can access Magnifier in a couple of ways, including using a Spotlight search or adding it to Control Center. The most convenient way to access Magnifier is by adding it to Control Center via the Settings app:
https://www.macobserver.com/tips/how-to/how-to-use-door-detection-in-ios-16/
34) Smart Harness Helps The Visually Impaired Navigate | YouTube | Reuters
Developed by a Swiss-based startup, this smart harness supports the visually impaired with navigation, using the technology of autonomous cars:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hmrBdT0Hh8k
35) Tennis For Blind People To Become A Reality Thanks To Amazing New Audio Technology
The UK's national tennis body has teamed up with the BBC and a tech firm to give blind and partially sighted fans the first chance to follow tennis in a completely new way — it's a massive step for inclusion:
https://www.dailystar.co.uk/tech/news/tennis-blind-people-become-reality-27263727
36) Zapvision Vision Technology And QR Code Helps Visually Impaired Access Product Information
Zappar, an AIPIA member which specializes in Augmented Reality (AR) creation, has launched Zapvision technology, which aims to provide access to relevant product information to everyone as a basic right, regardless of their visual ability:
https://packagingeurope.com/news/zapvision-vision-technology-and-qr-code-helps-visually-impaired-access-product-information/8361.article
37) Windows 11: Microsoft Aims to Put Accessibility First
Computing should be for everyone, and Microsoft is leaning into this idea, as shown by a recently published blog post called, "Making Windows 11 The Most Inclusively Designed Version of Windows Yet." The post offers a defined set of principles for inclusive design:
https://www.pcmag.com/news/windows-11-accessibility-features
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Robles v. Domino's Settles After Six Years of Litigation
One of the most famous accessibility lawsuits of all time finally settles before trial under terms that may never be known:
https://www.adatitleiii.com/2022/06/robles-v-dominos-settles-after-six-years-of-litigation/
2) How Art Helps These Disabled Creators Find Themselves
The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., is showing off artwork from some of the most talented artists with disabilities in the U.S as part of a national competition. The Grand prize is $20,000. The Hill has the story and lists the winners:
https://thehill.com/changing-america/respect/accessibility/3525135-how-art-helps-these-disabled-creators-find-themselves/
3) Metaverse For All: Building An Accessible Future
Diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility are major social concerns — and the combination of the metaverse and the connectivity of 5G could make a notable difference:
https://www.verizon.com/about/news/how-the-metaverse-can-improve-accessibility-for-all
4) How Pantene Put The Visually Impaired Community At The Heart Of Its Content
"PrettyGreen", "What They Said" and "Pantene" won in the New Product or Service Launch Strategy of the Year category at The Drum Awards for Marketing 2022. Here, we find out more about what went into their successful campaign:
https://www.thedrum.com/news/2022/06/20/how-pantene-put-the-visually-impaired-community-the-heart-its-content
5) Report From The United States Department of Labor: Disability and the Digital Divide: Internet Subscriptions, Internet Use, and Employment Outcomes
https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/ODEP/pdf/disability-digital-divide-brief.pdf
6) Humans Can Learn Mind-Blowing 'Sixth Sense': Study
For the blind, better navigation might be just a click of the tongue away. A study from Durham University, published in the Public Library of Science Journal One, examined how individuals with vision loss can use echolocation — a type of sonar used by animals in nature, where they emit a sound that bounces off objects — to get around:
https://nypost.com/2022/06/20/humans-can-learn-mind-blowing-sixth-sense-study/
7) Theatre Performance For The Visually Impaired
"Camille: The Story" is a revolutionary, multi-sensorial theatrical experience, specially designed for people living with visual impairments. Director and Creator Audrey-Anne Bouchard joins Global's Laura Casella ahead of the English language premiere to tell us more about this unique performance:
https://globalnews.ca/video/8933103/theatre-performance-for-the-visually-impaired/
8) WCAG, But In Language I Can Understand
First posted January 28th 2022. Updated May 12th 2022:
https://www.tempertemper.net/blog/wcag-but-in-language-i-can-understand
9) Level Access and eSSENTIAL Accessibility Agree to Merge, Strengthening Market Presence as an All-Encompassing Digital Accessibility Solutions Provider
Combined company plans to expand leadership in accessibility, empowering businesses and organizations to provide equitable experiences for people with disabilities:
https://markets.businessinsider.com/news/stocks/level-access-and-essential-accessibility-agree-to-merge-strengthening-market-presence-as-an-all-encompassing-digital-accessibility-solutions-provider-1031528777
10) MIT Is Making Datavis More Accessible For Visually Impaired Users
Researchers from MIT worked with visually impaired London academic Daniel Hajas on prototypes that enable people to access complex data using screen-reading tech:
https://www.siliconrepublic.com/innovation/visually-impaired-data-visualisation-mit-research
11) The End of an Era | Pneuma Solutions
June 15, 2022, marked the end of support for Internet Explorer. It'll go on being supported on some legacy servers for another seven years, but for all intents and purposes, the browser that led us through the explosion of Web 2.0 will take its place in the technology archives. The sunset of Internet Explorer means that the end is also near for System Access to Go (or SAToGo), the first screen reader that could be launched directly from a web browser with no additional assistance. The web is a different place now than it was in 2007 when we launched SAToGo. Today's web browsers are much more focused on both security and keeping the user in control, as they should be, and it is no longer practical for a website to talk the user through the process of downloading and running a program like SAToGo:
https://pneumasolutions.com/the-end-of-an-era/
12) The Future of System Access | Pneuma Solutions
In the wake of our farewell to Internet Explorer, where we announced the coming end of System Access to Go (or SAToGo), there has been some unfortunate confusion about the future of System Access in general. So in this post, as chief technology officer of Pneuma Solutions, I want to personally set the record straight. This will be a long post, but I think it's important to be completely candid about where we're coming from and where we're going, so please bear with us:
https://pneumasolutions.com/the-future-of-system-access/
13) IN THE DARK Sees Audiences Blindfolded To Hear The Stories Of Its Blind Or Visually Impaired Performers
In the Dark brings to life dramatic turning points in the lives of five people who are blind or visually impaired. It's an immersive surround sound experience where the audience can wear blindfolds, and all the sound effects are created live. They are stories of adversity, adventure and determination:
https://www.broadwayworld.com/ireland/article/IN-THE-DARK-Sees-Audiences-Blindfolded-To-Hear-The-Stories-Of-Its-Blind-Or-Visually-Impaired-Performers-20220620
14) A Year in Cleanfeed Accessibility
It's almost exactly one year ago that Marc (co-founder of Cleanfeed) and I were invited for a thoroughly enjoyable discussion as guests to the Blind Podcasters' Roundtable. We've made a steady stream of updates since then, so let's follow up where we were then, and now:
https://blog.cleanfeed.net/a-year-in-cleanfeed-accessibility/
15) Waymap's App Helps The Visually Impaired Navigate Public Transit
London-based Waymap wants to help guide visually impaired people to navigate their surroundings, and it's starting with public transit. The company just concluded a closed two-week trial of its navigation app at three stops within Washington, D.C.'s Metro, and hopes to begin a public trial at 25 Metro stations and 1,000 bus stops by September, according to Waymap:
https://techcrunch.com/2022/06/16/waymaps-app-helps-the-visually-impaired-navigate-public-transit/
16) Business Leaders Who Prioritize Inclusion Will Benefit From An Untapped Workforce. I'm The Proof.
My name is Kyle Shaults, and I was born with congenital glaucoma on Aug. 19, 1991. I've had 71 eye surgeries to conserve my vision. And while I've faced obstacles in my journey since then, my story proves that great things can happen when people within a company accept people as they are and genuinely strive to be inclusive for all:
https://kansasreflector.com/2022/06/18/business-leaders-who-prioritize-inclusion-will-benefit-from-an-untapped-workforce-im-the-proof/
17) Art Show Recognizes Deafblind Awareness Week
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission is celebrating national Deafblind Awareness Week from June 26 to July 2 by hosting the inaugural HHSC Deafblind Awareness Week Art Show: Empowerment through Art. The in-person art show opening will be held on Friday, June 24, at the HHSC North Austin Complex:
https://www.hhs.texas.gov/news/2022/06/art-show-recognizes-deafblind-awareness-week
➜ Surveys
1) APH Surveys Page
Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
2) Audible Vision Baseline Survey
This baseline survey aims to understand how assistive technology users conduct certain activities:
https://bit.ly/Audiblevision
3) Audible Vision App Survey
This survey aims to understand how assistive technology users use the Audible Vision app:
https://bit.ly/AudibleVisionForm2
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Mosen At Large Episode 184: More About Eloquence In iOS 16, Braille Should Always Be Spelled With A Capital B, And JAWS Lets You Take Control Of Windows Notifications
2) The DM Series Episode 97 | According to the Juices
June 18th 2022 | Starting out with a discussion about note taking and how both of us are handling capturing thoughts. Michael admits that drafts no longer live on his doc. Damashe shares a little about why he doesn't want to use notes. Damashe helps us learn a little more about DEVONthink and how he's using it. And Michael shares his ideal note taking wishes. Michael acquired a new piece of hardware for his audio setup, and we ask if you know the perfect solution to solve our problems. Damashe shares with us his consideration of Google workspace abandonment and this turns into a conversation about why we explore automation as much as we are. Damashe shares his predictions for the iPhone 14 line. And we discussed what Apple could do next. We close this episode out with a brief discussion of Apple's passkeys and a little something we forgot to put in the show:
https://yourownpay.com/dm97
3) Blind Abilities Podcast Episode 861: When the iPhone Itch Comes Calling: Upgrade or Not? Plus, Battery Health, Peak Performance and Optimizing Battery Charging
June 21st 2022 | Do you get that feeling of urgency to upgrade to a new iPhone every time a new one comes along? I have and I am finally coming to terms with waiting and making the best out of what I already have, own and utilize perfectly well. I have upgraded on the Apple Upgrade Plan, did the 2 year upgrade cycle, and today I am going to keep my iPhone 12 Pro Max another year and I will tell you why and how I am going to keep my iPhone in peak performance for the next year. I will also demo the Battery Health, Peak Performance and Optimize Battery Charging. Hope you enjoy:
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7441
4) Eyes on Success Episode 2225: The Candy in My Pocket
June 22nd 2022 | Over the years John Robert Wiltgen developed many complications from childhood diabetes including blindness, amputation of a limb, and kidney failure. Despite these setbacks, he soldiered on to become a world-renowned interior designer. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with John about his experiences and his newly released memoir "The Candy In My Pocket:"
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202225.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) National Deaf Center New Data Report: Supporting Deaf College Students: Perspectives from Disability Services Professionals
June 23rd 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | In this session, Dr. Jeffery Palmer will lead an overview of NDC's latest data report which focuses on the perspectives of disability services professionals serving deaf college students. This report summarizes findings from a national survey between 2018-2020 of disability services professionals about services that were provided to deaf college students on their campus. Findings illustrate the various approaches to campus policies and practices and reveal that disability services professionals and deaf students often have different perspectives about the experience of being a deaf student on a college campus. Join us to learn more about key takeaways and ask questions from the co-authors, Tia Ivanko MA, NIC, ADAC and Lauren Kinast, EdD. There will be a short 15-minute presentation followed by a Q&A session about the report. Interpreters and real-time captioning will be provided. Additional access requests can be emailed to help@nationaldeafcenter.org 📧️ at least 3 business days prior to the event. Register here:
https://bit.ly/3Mw04mo
2) Learn About Web Accessibility | Where It's AT — Assistive Technology Blog
June 24th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Don't miss our next IT Accessibility session: Basic Web Accessibility — Guidelines, Techniques & Testing! Join our very own Andrew Drummond as he partners with the NFB to introduce you to the laws and guidelines that define accessibility as well as the methods you can use to test your website. This session will also include a demonstration of how a screen reader interprets a website:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_eBBkbCvwQAOoMx17r6Ljgg?fbclid=IwAR0gXIE1vH4NoYCCysJ83tXRfElrc5z30Lv52w6ha5imWeoEisOjf8bl0Rg
3) SuperNova Everyday Essential Webinar | Dolphin Computer Access
June 28th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Help! What to do when you're not sure what to do-all of the SuperNova help and resources available at your fingertips. Participate live every Tuesday 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT or watch the recordings at your leisure:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/en-us/supernova-everyday-essentials
4) Accessible Book Apps | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
July 9th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Accessibility can mean smartphone, computer, e-reader, or smart device. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
5) Hiring for Cognitive Diversity in Tech | TPGi
July 13th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenter: Le McNamara, Accessibility Engineer. Join TPGi Accessibility Engineer, Le McNamara as they talk about, "Hiring for Cognitive Diversity in Tech." Hiring neurodivergent technologists can benefit your IT teams! Twenty technologists who identify as neurodiverse came forward, during a hackathon event, to share and record their experiences with the hiring process in tech. This talk will cover the common threads of those disclosures, the value of neurodivergent team members, and the experiences positive and negative that neurodivergent applicants face in looking for work within the tech sector and for technology roles in other industries. We'll be sharing what in the interview processes triggered negative outcomes and what behaviors and processes facilitated positive outcomes. We'll be making suggestions for changes hiring professionals can make as well as accommodations that can be asked for and should be expected. We'll also be talking about how to reach out to neurodiverse talent directly, to get back those that have given up, by working directly with services and communities:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-july-13-at-12pm-et-hiring-for-cognitive-diversity-in-tech/
6) How to Quickly Test Your Website for JAWS Screen Reader Compatibility | TPGi
July 27th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenters: Mike DeSorda, Customer Success Manager, and Al Puzzuoli, Customer Support. 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 quickly 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 JAWS Inspect alongside JAWS (or by itself) for quick and easy screen reader compatibility testing:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-july-27-at-12pm-et-quickly-test-your-website-for-jaws-screen-reader-compatibility/
7) NaviLens and Apple air Tags | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
August 13th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Labeling and tracking just got a whole lot easier! Learn how to use these exciting new products. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
8) Pixel Phone | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
September 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Has Android bridged the gap with Apple with this remarkable new device? All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
9) iOS 16 Review And Editing Voice Memos | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
October 1st 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Every year we look for accessibility improvements in our i-devices. See what is new in this latest version of the Apple operating system. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
10) AT Gifts for the Holidays | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Our annual look at gadgets and gizmos that will make your holiday season a successful one. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
11) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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 New Braille Embosser Index Basic D Version 4 USB Retail Box
Listing Date: 6/23/2022 | Price: $1,200.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Hello, we have a practically new Index Basic D version 4 double sided Braille embosser with USB and many of the modern embosser features still in the retail box we can sell. It has never had any problems at all, it just has not been used . Asking $1200 OBO | Contact: Jay via email at: JS5lio021@gmail.com 📧️ or by phone / text at: (816) 659-0044 📱️. |
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
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: Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: http://www.braillebookstore.com/ 🌐
Phone (Toll Free): (800) 987-1231 📱️
Fax (Toll Free): (800) 985-1231 ░
Email: Sales@BrailleBookstore.com 📧️
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time.
About: Welcome to Blind in Mind, The Braille Superstore. We have been supplying products to blind people and their families since 1999. We offer thousands of Braille books, toys, games, kitchen aids, and talking products. We have unbeatable prices, fast, free shipping, and great customer service! We have tons of Braille books and cool products to choose from; so grab a cup of coffee, relax, and we'll give you a quick tour:
Products:
➜ Timekeeping
➜ Housewares
➜ On The Go
➜ Low Vision Products
➜ Toys and Games
➜ Gift Shop
➜ Braille Workshop
➜ Braille Bookstore
➜ Greeting Cards
➜ Copy Center
➜ Computer Lab
➜ Popular Products
➜ New Products
If you need some fresh ideas or have questions, you can also check out our Shopping Guides.
Sponsor: Fable
Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022
Website: https://fablepathways.com/ 🌐
About: Build inclusive products. Most of the internet is inaccessible, but you can change that with Fable. Enterprises use Fable Engage to connect to people with disabilities for user research and accessibility testing. Fable Upskill provides custom training for digital teams to gain the skills to build inclusive products.
Products:
➜ Fable Engage: Fable Engage enables you to connect to people with disabilities remotely and on-demand to accelerate your user research, design, and development.
➜ Fable Upskill: Fable Upskill delivers custom training to ensure your product teams have the knowledge and skills to build truly inclusive products.
➜ Accessible Usability Scale: The Accessible Usability Scale (AUS) is a free tool to measure the usability of a digital product for assistive technology users. Inspired by the System Usability Scale (SUS), the Accessible Usability Scale consists of ten questions administered at the end of a user experience to calculate a score.
Sponsor: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ Join the Dolphin Friends Program
Dolphin Friends supports, recognizes, and rewards the great work that charities and sight loss societies do to support the people in their community who are visually impaired. Members receive free Dolphin software, staff training on GuideConnect and SuperNova, computing accessories and a useful resource pack to help you advise your service users on Dolphin assistive technology. Join Dolphin Friends:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/join-dolphin-friends-us
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Sponsor: Clusiv
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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 from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Control the climate of your home independently! The VIP 3000 is a universal heating — cooling talking thermostat This accessible digital thermostat is specifically designed to offer audio playback of indoor temperature, temperature settings and programming instructions so blind and visually impaired users can independently & precisely manage their indoor comfort. Don't over pay. Read more at:
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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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
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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Start Your Coding Journey Today with APH's Road to Code!
Want to learn more about coding but don't know where to start? Look no further! APH's Road to Code provides a roadmap for coding progression through all our fun and engaging coding products.
https://bit.ly/3HueRfI
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: We're Exhibiting at both ACB and NFB Conventions
Barry, Kae, and Debra welcome you to our world of everything leather, dog, and gadget; and our "New" Evo 12 stereo Daisy player with 6 voices, $289; Hermione bottomless leather bag, $65; Titanium telescopic locking canes, $50; Next generation bone conduction headphones, $110; Talking medical bundle, $120; Soft absorbent doggie bathrobes, $30 - $35; Protective doggie winter jackets/raincoats, $30 - $40; Self-cleaning grooming brushes, $15 - $26, and much more! Come find us! For additional information, contact Barry Scheur at (617) 969-7500 📱️ / bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️ or Kae at (781) 286-1696 📱️ / guidelightdogs@gmail.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, affordable, and, whenever possible, fun! Our inventory is constantly changing, so a visit to us is never the same experience twice!
Your Name Here
0 of 18 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are 0 of 18 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, June 16, 2022 - Volume 863
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.
Subscribers: 7,281 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email. 117 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Save Up to $950 on Select HIMS Products When Attending ACB and NFB Summer Shows
Join HIMS at this year's ACB and NFB National Conventions and save big! HIMS is celebrating being back in person with the best saving of the year. You can save up to $950 on select products at both the ACB and NFB national conventions. Come visit the HIMS booth and check out the BrailleSense 6, the most powerful and advanced 32-cell, Google Certified braille notetaker available. If you want portability, the BrailleSense 6 mini is now shipping with the same power and performance, but with a slim and lightweight 20-cell design.
These savings are too good to last, so if you want to take advantage make sure to visit HIMS at these summer conventions. Savings on your next HIMS braille device will be announced at the shows. This sale is for US residents and attendees of the ACB and NFB national conventions only. Learn more at: https://hims-inc.com/
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) New Accessibility Features Available With iOS 16 | Apple (7.7% of all clicks.)
iOS 16 enhances iPhone with all-new personalization features, deeper intelligence, and seamless ways to communicate and share:
https://www.apple.com/ios/ios-16-preview/features/
B.) Eloquence Finally In iOS (5.2% of all clicks.)
In more iOS 16 news, the popular speech synthesizer, Eloquence, appears to be available to Voiceover. There are apparently a lot of other voices too. There are multiple sources that mention this so here is the AppleVis entry:
https://applevis.com/forum/ios-ipados/eloquence-finally-ios
C.) 4 PDF Accessibility Hacks (5.0% of all clicks.)
We've all seen them — Higher ed websites filled with PDFs. Maybe it's the flyer promoting the Chess Club's next meet, the Parents Weekend schedule, or even the new student application instructions — all PDFs, and all with limited or no accessibility:
https://www.stamats.com/insights/pdf-accessibility-hacks/
D.) Save Your Money: The 10 Best Places to Download Free eBooks and Audiobooks (4.8% of all clicks.)
From Project Gutenberg to LibriVox, here's how to find free eBooks and audiobooks online:
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/download-free-ebooks-audiobooks-online
E.) Tips For Using a Screen Reader to Present with Microsoft PowerPoint (4.6% of all clicks.)
Courtesy of Robert Lee Beach, Assistive Technology Specialist:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/83.html
2) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: Creating Headings in Microsoft Word
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/86.html
3) Dolphin SuperNova Power Tip: Removing the SuperNova Control Panel From The Switch To (ALT + TAB) List
Courtesy of Dolphin Computer Access:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/85.html
4) Taking Notes Using The Voice Memo App for iPhone
Courtesy of the Technology User Group (TUG) at the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled (LBPD):
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/88.html
5) Ask Alexa
A.) For a dash of fun, ask Alexa for a spicy joke.
Just say, "Alexa, tell me a spicy joke."
B.) Now you can anticipate potential rain or snow occurring later in the day.
Just say, "Alexa, turn on rain and snow alerts."
C.) Did you know Alexa can set a music timer? Just ask for music — or nature sounds — for a set period of time, and she'll stop when the time is up.
Just say, "Alexa, play nature sounds for 30 minutes."
D.) Ask Alexa to play podcasts from your choice of provider, including Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, SiriusXM, Pandora, and Audible:
Just say, "Alexa, play a meditation podcast."
E.) Did you know Alexa is Multilingual? Alexa will respond to your question in the language you spoke:
Just say, "Alexa, speak Spanish."
6) Free Comprehensive Pro Tools Guide for Screen Reader Users Now Available Online
The "Pro Tools Guide for Screen Reader Users" is a free online resource made possible through the Berklee College of Music and features a comprehensive series of tutorials aimed specifically at blind users of Avid's Pro Tools digital audio workstation software. It includes 250 audio demonstrations (totaling 20 hours) with detailed examples to accompany each topic. All of the Pro Tools session files used throughout this series are available to download for reference and practice. As the process of refining Pro Tools accessibility is ongoing, this online guide will continue to be updated regularly to reflect the most recent improvements to the Pro Tools user interface from the perspective of a screen reader user. Whether you're new to Pro Tools or already use it and want to expand your knowledge, start your journey by visiting:
https://ptaccess.github.io
7) From The Apple Developer Network: How To Add Accessibility to Your Unity Games
Learn how you can make your Unity games accessible on Apple platforms using our open source Accessibility plug-in. Follow along as we add support for assistive technologies like VoiceOver and Switch Control to a sample Unity game project. We'll show you how you can automatically scale text with Dynamic Type, support interface accommodations like reduced transparency or increased contrast, and more:
https://developer.apple.com/videos/play/wwdc2022/10151/
8) Best Games For Accessibility On PS5 2022
These games have been curated by Android Central. Seems like a good place to get started if looking for accessible games on Sony's platform:
https://www.androidcentral.com/gaming/playstation/best-games-for-accessibility-on-ps5
9) 7 Resources for People With Disabilities to Break Into Software Engineering Careers
This article covers some resources and tips that can help those with disabilities break into a software engineering career. Most of which Top Tech Tidbits has mentioned previously:
https://www.containiq.com/post/resource-disabilities-software-engineering
10) Firefox Rolls Out Total Cookie Protection By Default To All Users Worldwide
Long known as a very accessible web browser, particularly on Windows, Firefox now offers cookie protection. The Technology works by storing cookies separate to each site. You can find out more by visiting their blog:
https://blog.mozilla.org/en/products/firefox/firefox-rolls-out-total-cookie-protection-by-default-to-all-users-worldwide/
11) How to Get a List of Directions in Apple Maps
Cool Blind Tech has given us step-by-step directions to get the list of instructions that will be used in the Apple Maps directions:
https://coolblindtech.com/how-to-get-a-list-of-directions-in-apple-maps/
12) How Can You Make Your Twitch Stream More Accessible?
NERDBOT offers some tips to make streaming on Twitch more accessible:
https://nerdbot.com/2022/06/12/how-can-you-make-your-twitch-stream-more-accessible/
13) Amazon Adds New Adult Disability Fiction Category To Its Online Bookstore
This will make it easier to find books with a disability theme on Amazon:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/gusalexiou/2022/05/10/amazon-adds-new-adult-disability-fiction-category-to-its-online-bookstore/?sh=2b58b1552702
14) When DRM Comes For Your Wheelchair
This article by Cory Doctorow describes some of the issues about the right to repair as it relates to wheelchairs:
https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2022/06/when-drm-comes-your-wheelchair
15) Successful Crowdfunding Campaign Leads To Free Open Source Solution For Remote Access | NVDA Remote 2.5 Now Available: Providing Remote PC Access, Compatible With NVDA 2022.1
NVDA Remote allows NVDA users to remotely access another Windows computer, similar to the functionality of JAWS Tandem. This free addon is compatible with NVDA 2022.1. Connect to any Windows computer running NVDA, right now, for free:
https://nvdaremote.com/
16) From Humanware: The HW Buddy App is Finally Available and Updated
Our HW Buddy app is now back up and updated on the Android and Apple stores. You will need to re-create your account on installation to get everything up and running:
https://milled.com/humanware-uk/the-hw-buddy-app-is-finally-available-and-updated-LAwJnu1YTWIfYN5G
17) NVDA Screenshots Addon Helps in Taking Screenshots of The Entire Screen or Specific Portions of The Screen
This add-on provides a wizard to take screenshots of the entire screen or specific areas such as objects, windows, etc. It is activated by the print screen key which on standard keyboards is usually the first of the group of three to the right of F12. If you prefer to use another, it can be configured in the NVDA preferences, input gestures:
https://addons.nvda-project.org/addons/screenshots.en.html
18) Enjoying Summer Events When Blind or Low Vision and Using a White Cane | APH VisionAware
Summer is a time of year filled with outdoor gatherings. Generally, they involve food, drinks, lots of sitting and chatting, and perhaps even some games on the lawn. Typically, the meal is potluck style where everyone brings their favorite dish to share, and drinks are served in those ever-present bright red plastic cups. It's common for clusters of folding camp chairs to be scattered around the lawn in groups of three or four. There might also be an area set aside for games like frisbee or football. These events are great fun! But how can you enjoy yourself if you are blind or low vision and use a long white cane:
https://visionaware.org/blog/visually-impaired-now-what/enjoying-summer-events-when-blind-or-low-vision-and-using-a-white-cane/
19) #CSUNATC22 Audio: What's New In Duxbury 12.6 For Mac And Windows
Neal Kuniansky, Director of marketing and Sales for Duxbury Systems, is no stranger to the BBQ Exhibit Hall microphones. Moreover, he might be slightly infamous for his aid in a past April's Fool podcast. But this interview is about Duxbury's future and J.J. gets the low down on the new features in 12.6 for Windows and Mac OS. Tune in, or read the transcript below, to get some insights on EBRF and multi-line braille display support as well. To learn more about 12.6, which has been released since the time we recorded this, or to purchase an upgrade to an existing product, visit the Duxbury Systems website:
https://www.blindbargains.com/bargains.php?m=22490
20) Star Trek Fans Rejoice | Courtesy of the Technology User Group (TUG) at the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled (LBPD)
Whether you are a fan of the original Star Trek series or branch out into the other spin offs, you can catch Star Trek audio described on Bananavision Star Trek, which is available on your Victor Reader Stream, Internet Radio option. Use the search term bananavision to find not only Star Trek but other exciting streams as well:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/87.html
21) How to Use Microsoft Word for Free
No hacks or questionable software purchases here. This comes to us from Wired Magazine. If you don't want to pay for the word processor, and Google Docs won't work for what you need, you have options:
https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-use-microsoft-word-for-free/
22) From The National Braille Press: Getting Started with the iPhone and iOS 15 | $26.00 - $28.50
By Anna Dresner. Avaialble in Braille, DAISY, eBraille or Word. This new edition of our soup-to-nuts tutorial for beginners contains everything you need to know to get started using the iPhone and the iOS 15 operating system. If you like step-by-step tutorials, you'll appreciate the detailed way in which you're guided through setting up your phone, placing calls, configuring VoiceOver, entering text and working with apps, using a Bluetooth keyboard and braille display, and more. If you prefer to look up the commands you need, you'll love the first appendix, which lists the most handy gestures and buttons in an organized manner so you can find the one you want. Other appendices include troubleshooting tips and a list of resources to help you learn more. Most of the book is relevant for iPod touch users, and since the layout of iPhone Plus screens resembles that of iPad screens, iPad users should find this edition useful as well:
https://www.nbp.org/ic/nbp/IPHONE-IOS15.html
23) Vispero and Aira: The Right Stuff | How Both Products Work Together For Better Accessibility | How To Access The Vispero Offer With Aira
Anyone striving to be an astronaut is said to have "the right stuff". It's a combination of personal skill and knowing how to use what's out there to get things done. The same can be said for achieving accessibility. Two powerful additions to your accessibility tool kit are products from Vispero and professional visual interpreting from Aira:
https://aira.io/vispero-and-aira/
24) K-9 Mail App Will Become Thunderbird's Android Email Client
The developers of the open source Thunderbird email client have confirmed that the open source Android email app K-9 Mail will become Thunderbird for Android:
https://www.ghacks.net/2022/06/13/k-9-mail-app-will-become-thunderbirds-android-email-client/
25) How to Dictate Text in Microsoft Office
There are a few different ways to dictate text in Microsoft Office depending on the software version you use. Here's how to do it in Word, PowerPoint, and more:
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/dictate-text-in-microsoft-office
26) How To Create A Microsoft Teams Meeting From The Outlook Calendar
You can create a Teams Meeting directly from the Outlook calendar:
https://sharons-shortcuts.ie/creating-a-microsoft-teams-meeting-from-outlook/
27) From Justin Macleod's Audio Presentations and Tutorials
Most of the tutorials on this site are for the Reaper program. All are in MP3 format:
https://nextcloud.danielwproductions.com/index.php/s/BwcC2mdPPtNjfiz
28) New Updates for Notepad and Media Player for Windows Insiders Include Accessibility Improvements
Improved support for screen readers, text scaling, access keys, and other assistive technologies are available starting in version 11.2204 and higher in all channels, with additional improvements in version 11.2205 and higher available in the Dev channel:
https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2022/06/09/new-updates-for-notepad-and-media-player-for-windows-insiders/
29) Twitter Helps The Visually Impaired By Releasing New Option To Translate Charts Into Audio Elements
To put it simply, visually impaired users will now be able to hear charts after they're translated into various pitched sounds. This will also be accompanied by a written chart description:
https://www.digitalinformationworld.com/2022/06/twitter-helps-visually-impaired-by.html
30) Mechanical Engineering Students Design a Unique Electronic Travel Aid for the Visually Impaired
Currently, most visually impaired individuals rely on external forces to help guide them safely, the most common include a site guide, dog or white cane. Lahmann and Taylor wanted to create a device for independence, something that is sorely lacking in the market. They also wanted it to be discreet and hands free:
https://www.rose-hulman.edu/news/2022/mechanical-engineering-students-design-a-unique-electronic-travel-aid-for-the-visually-impaired.html
31) Get an Organization System in Place with Labelers for the Blind and Visually Impaired
MaxiAids provides you with products that make everyday life easier when blind or living with visual impairment. Getting a system in place to get more organized is difficult without the proper products, but they make it possible with their inventory of Reizen Labelers:
https://www.maxiaids.com/get-an-organization-system-in-place-with-labelers-for-blind-and-visually-impaired
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Judge Rules Against Alaska in Ballot Access Case
A state court judge has ruled that Alaska elections officials cannot certify the results of the by-mail special primary for U.S. House until visually impaired voters are given a "full and fair opportunity" to participate in the election:
https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/alaska/articles/2022-06-10/judge-to-hear-arguments-in-alaska-ballot-access-case
2) McDonald's And Righthear Expand Their Partnership To Make Fast Food More Accessible
RightHear is installing tiny sensors in all of McDonald's Israel restaurants which use Bluetooth technology to connect offer helpful information for visually impaired restaurant-goers:
https://www.fastcompany.com/90757316/mcdonalds-and-righthear-visually-impaired-people
3) Nashville Council Buys $20.3M Former Tennessee School For The Blind, Ultimate Use Remains Undecided
Nashville taxpayers now own the former Tennessee School for the Blind:
https://www.tennessean.com/story/news/local/davidson/2022/06/08/metro-buys-20-3-m-former-tennessee-school-blind/7459920001/
4) CBS To Offer Audio Description For The Blind of "The 75th Annual Tony Awards"
It is the first time an audio description will be provided for the live broadcast of the Tony Awards:
https://www.tvtechnology.com/news/cbs-to-offer-audio-description-for-the-blind-of-the-75th-annual-tony-awards
5) Suit Challenges Alabama's Denial Of Accessible Absentee Voting Ballots To The Blind And People With Print Disabilities
The SPLC and its co-counsel, Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program (ADAP) and Brown Goldstein & Levy, have filed a federal lawsuit against the state of Alabama for denying voters who are blind or have print disabilities access to the state's absentee ballot program in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Rehabilitation Act (RA):
https://www.splcenter.org/news/2022/06/08/alabama-suit-defends-absentee-voting-for-blind
➜ Surveys
1) APH Surveys Page
Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) DM96 — It's Not A Pod
June 7th 2022 | This episode starts out talking about the new Mic Damashe ended up with. Remember that the podcast was recorded Friday June 3rd. Should we have talked about this? Michael is playing with the Pixel, and Damashe shares his thoughts about Core OS! Why we think people need to use your words, and how Damashe ended up installing his own RSS Service to sink his feeds:
https://yourownpay.com/dm96-its-not-a-pod/
2) Apps, Gadgets, and Vision Loss | Hadley Presents: A Conversation with the Experts
June 10th 2022 | Scottish radio broadcaster and podcaster Steven Scott loves finding and talking about tech stuff. He's especially fond of apps and gadgets that make life easier for him and others with vision loss:
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/apps-gadgets-and-vision-loss
3) Mosen At Large Episode 183: Apple Surprises And Delights The Blind Community With Eloquence, Humanware Talks Braille HID, And To Capital B Or Not To Capital B?
4) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 79: Android 13 Beta 3 and a Book on Android from Mystic Access
June 12th 2022 | It's another double bill this week. Chris and Kim Nova from Mystic Access talk to us about their new book, "Getting Started with Android: Android and Talkback for the Beginning User", available from National Braille Press. We then talk about what's new in Android 13. Next we have highlights from the Talkback series in which we talk about some of the new features. This week, one of our listeners brings us her Android journey telling us how she got started with Android:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqpi3iSU1GC_jpmG0Sv7ZJ-4
5) Blind Abilities Podcast Episode 860: Tech Abilities: Pump It Up! iOS16 Beta Surprises or I Thought We Had That? Amazoning, Intersection Crossing, Pop Culture, Tech Tidbits and News with a Blindness Perspective
June 13th 2022 | Serina, Callie and Jeff kind of sorta in a way talk about that WWDC event from Apple, but same as it ever was, same as it ever was, these Talking Heads jump the tracks and yes, they do find there way back through the weeds and negotiating intersections from mobility, movie going, Amazoning and many perspectives on interpreting the newly announced upcoming iOS 16 for the iPhone and the Mac OS Ventura. A bit on the Watch OS but for times sake, we actually fartleked through this episode. Yes, Fartlek is like interval training, so we did some of this and then some of that and back to this and that. Nice:
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7439
6) Eyes on Success Episode 2224: Offerings from Independence Science
June 15th 2022 | Accessible measurement tools are essential if visually impaired students and professionals are to be full participants in STEM related activities either independently or with their sighted peers. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey speak with Michael Hingson and Ashley Neybert, from Independence Science, about the tools and services they offer to meet these needs:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202224.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Prep and Proof Google Documents Using Suggesting Mode and Comments with JAWS | Vispero
June 16th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Are you looking for ways to revise Google documents with JAWS? Want to know how to navigate comments and track changes? Join us Thursday, June 16, 2022, at noon Eastern Time for a live webinar, "Prep and Proof Google Documents Using Suggesting Mode and Comments with JAWS." We'll provide an overview of Google Docs Suggesting Mode, and show you how to: Navigate comments left by other collaborators. Turn on Suggesting Mode. Navigate, accept, and reject suggested changes from other collaborators. ACVREP credits will be available for those who attend the live webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_qEa1IT2ETayPg4Sh7ktk_A
2) What's New in the BrailleSense 6 and BrailleSense 6 Mini | HIMS
June 17th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Topic: BrailleSense Firmware v1.7 Webinar. One tap mobile: US: +12532158782,,89214689544# or +13462487799,,89214689544# | Telephone: Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location): US: +1 253 215 8782 or +1 346 248 7799 or +1 408 638 0968 or +1 669 900 6833 or +1 301 715 8592 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 646 876 9923. Webinar ID: 892 1468 9544. Register at:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89214689544
3) See The LiveScribe Echo 2 In Action With SmartpenCentral | The Network of Assistive Technologists
June 17, 2022 | 10:30 AM PT, 11:30 AM MT, 12:30 PM CT, 1:30 PM ET, 5:30 PM GMT | Join The Network of Assistive Technologists as we welcome SmartpenCentral and the LiveScribe Echo 2. Don't miss this opportunity to review the product and discover how it can be used by Assistive Techs to improve the independence, confidence and test-scores of the students in your care. Learn: WHAT is a Livescribe smartpen. WHY it provides value to the student, the school and to parents. HOW to build a successful support program that includes Livescribe smartpens:
https://sites.google.com/NOAT.ca/events/
4) 2022 Braille Literacy Canada Symposium
June 17th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Braille Literacy Canada (BLC) will be holding its second annual virtual braille symposium. This event will be of interest to braille readers, educators, transcribers, parents, producers and anyone else with a passion for braille literacy! The schedule of events is as follows: 1:00pm EST: Revitalising Braille through a Grass Roots Community (Matthew Horspool and Dave Williams, Braillists Foundation) 2:00pm EST: Hadley's Braille for Everyday Use (Douglas Walker and Dr. Kim Walker, Hadley) 3:00pm EST: What is the science of reading, and what does it teach us about braille contractions? (Dr. Robert Englebretson, Rice University) 4:00pm EST: Walking Through Paths to Literacy For All Things Braille (Kate Borg, Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired). Each presentation will be approximately 30 minutes long, followed by a 15 minute question-and-answer period, and then a 15 minute intermission. Register at:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0rcuqgqTgoHNE6DUAxovR0glJTq4v53gFQ
5) Easy Portable Reading — The OmniReader | Access Ingenuity
June 19th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | The omniReader is the definition of easy by allowing you to read printed text by pressing a single button. You can follow the magnified text in high-contrast colors on the built-in screen or listen as the omniReader reads text aloud. You can also use the screen to instantly magnify objects and text and display them in high-contrast colors to see them more clearly. Thanks to its lightweight design, built-in handle, and long battery life, you can pick it up and use it wherever you want - at home, at the office, and even on the go. Join Ian Ramos from Access Ingenuity and Joseph McDaniel from Vispero as they explain the critical assistive role this machine plays to the visually impaired. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: Features walkthrough of the omniReader. Explanation of the primary and secondary assistive benefits. How the omniReader can be an effective reading tool. | Meeting ID: 832 7410 0965 | Passcode: 575948 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83274100965#,,,,*575948# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83274100965?pwd=VE5BekE2RUVZaldBVkZFTXQ0Z3pRUT09
6) Free SuperNova 10-Minute Training | Dolphin Computer Access
June 21st 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Join Miranda McPherson, professor, AT Trainer, and SuperNova user as she delivers a series of practical 10-20 minute training webinars that will help trainers, assessors, and users build proficiency using SuperNova with common applications and on the web. Participate live every Tuesday 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT or watch the recordings at your leisure:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/en-us/supernova-everyday-essentials
7) How to Create Accessible Videos | Access Ingenuity
June 22nd 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12AM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Do you create videos for YouTube or other platforms? This presentation will review the components of accessible videos and how to make them. Join Michael Parker from Access Ingenuity to learn about creating accessible videos, including captions, audio descriptions, and descriptive text transcripts. Learning Outcomes: Learn the main elements of an accessible video to comply with WCAG 2.1 Guidelines. Learn how to edit captions on YouTube. Learn how to design videos so that they meet audio description requirements. Learn the basics of creating descriptive text transcripts. | Meeting ID: 891 2139 8335 | Passcode: 616098 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,89121398335#,,,,*616098# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89121398335?pwd=bENxNldHa2RqaDFZdmVCakhESDQrUT09
8) Eye Drop Webinar | Accessible Pharmacy
June 22nd 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | This webinar will have a live ASL interpreter, and closed captioning. If you are unable to attend, still be sure to register to receive access to the webinar audio and video via email afterwards. Please join us as we discuss tips and techniques for using eye drops as well as trends in eye drop refill legislation. Speakers will include experts from The Chicago Lighthouse and Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind. Questions? Please contact info@accessiblepharmacy.com 📧️. To read about the speakers and to register, click the link below:
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/eye-drop-webinar/
9) National Deaf Center New Data Report: Supporting Deaf College Students: Perspectives from Disability Services Professionals
June 23rd 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | In this session, Dr. Jeffery Palmer will lead an overview of NDC's latest data report which focuses on the perspectives of disability services professionals serving deaf college students. This report summarizes findings from a national survey between 2018-2020 of disability services professionals about services that were provided to deaf college students on their campus. Findings illustrate the various approaches to campus policies and practices and reveal that disability services professionals and deaf students often have different perspectives about the experience of being a deaf student on a college campus. Join us to learn more about key takeaways and ask questions from the co-authors, Tia Ivanko MA, NIC, ADAC and Lauren Kinast, EdD. There will be a short 15-minute presentation followed by a Q&A session about the report. Interpreters and real-time captioning will be provided. Additional access requests can be emailed to help@nationaldeafcenter.org 📧️ at least 3 business days prior to the event. Register here:
https://bit.ly/3Mw04mo
10) Accessible Book Apps | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
July 9th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Accessibility can mean smartphone, computer, e-reader, or smart device. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
11) NaviLens and Apple air Tags | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
August 13th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Labeling and tracking just got a whole lot easier! Learn how to use these exciting new products. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
12) Pixel Phone | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
September 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Has Android bridged the gap with Apple with this remarkable new device? All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
13) iOS 16 Review And Editing Voice Memos | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
October 1st 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Every year we look for accessibility improvements in our i-devices. See what is new in this latest version of the Apple operating system. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
14) AT Gifts for the Holidays | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Our annual look at gadgets and gizmos that will make your holiday season a successful one. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
15) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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 New Humanware Braillenote Touch Plus 32 in Retail Box
Listing Date: 5/26/2022 | Price: $2,875.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: I have a new Humanware Braillenote Touch Plus 32 with all its accessories still in its retail box I can sell for about half price of retail. So asking about $2,875 USD or best offer. Of course, since it is new, everything is perfect. :) Text me. | Contact: Jay via email at: JS5lio021@gmail.com 📧️ or by phone / text at: (816) 659-0044 📱️. |
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
➜ Free SuperNova 10-Minute Trainings Every Tuesday
Join Miranda McPherson, professor, AT Trainer, and SuperNova user as she delivers a series of practical 10-20 minute training webinars that will help trainers, assessors, and users build proficiency using SuperNova with common applications and on the web. Participate live every Tuesday 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT or watch the recordings at your leisure:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/en-us/supernova-everyday-essentials
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Sponsor: Clusiv
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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 from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Control the climate of your home independently! The VIP 3000 is a universal heating — cooling talking thermostat This accessible digital thermostat is specifically designed to offer audio playback of indoor temperature, temperature settings and programming instructions so blind and visually impaired users can independently & precisely manage their indoor comfort. Don't over pay. Read more at:
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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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
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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Start Your Coding Journey Today with APH's Road to Code!
Want to learn more about coding but don't know where to start? Look no further! APH's Road to Code provides a roadmap for coding progression through all our fun and engaging coding products.
https://bit.ly/3HueRfI
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: We're Exhibiting at both ACB and NFB Conventions
Barry, Kae, and Debra welcome you to our world of everything leather, dog, and gadget; and our "New" Evo 12 stereo Daisy player with 6 voices, $289; Hermione bottomless leather bag, $65; Titanium telescopic locking canes, $50; Next generation bone conduction headphones, $110; Talking medical bundle, $120; Soft absorbent doggie bathrobes, $30 - $35; Protective doggie winter jackets/raincoats, $30 - $40; Self-cleaning grooming brushes, $15 - $26, and much more! Come find us! For additional information, contact Barry Scheur at (617) 969-7500 📱️ / bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️ or Kae at (781) 286-1696 📱️ / guidelightdogs@gmail.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, affordable, 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
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 📱️.
Your Name Here
0 of 14 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 14 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are 0 of 14 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, June 9, 2022 - Volume 862
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.
Subscribers: 7,272 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email. 115 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Double Your Give $20 with National Federation of the Blind and HumanWare
Display the power of a movement for braille and beyond. This year, HumanWare will match every dollar donated up to $50,000. And when you give $20 or more between May 1 and July 10 at 3:00 p.m. central time, you will be entered into the Give $20 Convention Drawing. You could win: Round-trip transportation for two for the 2023 NFB National Convention Hotel at the convention Registration and banquet tickets for two $1,000 in walking-around cash OR $2,000 CASH! Learn more at https://nfb.org/give20 or go directly to the contribution form now: https://nfb.org/civicrm/contribute/transact?reset=1&%3Bid=45
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: Identifying Single-line Ribbon Versus Multi-line Ribbon (7.7% of all clicks.)
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/80.html
B.) List of all Windows 10 Keyboard Shortcuts: The Ultimate Guide (5.2% of all clicks.)
Windows 10 includes a slew of keyboard shortcuts to make your experience easier around the desktop, and here are all of them::
https://www.windowscentral.com/best-windows-10-keyboard-shortcuts
C.) 7 Common Mistakes That Are Damaging Your Smartphone (4.5% of all clicks.)
Everyone does it. We're all human, after all. But, if you avoid these mistakes, your smartphone is guaranteed to last longer:
https://www.makeuseof.com/common-mistakes-damaging-smartphone/
D.) IIT Kanpur Develops Haptic Smartwatch For The Blind And The Visually Impaired (4.5% of all clicks.)
IIT Kanpur researchers have developed a touch-sensitive or haptic smartwatch for the blind and the visually impaired that offers various features to help in day-to-day life:
https://www.indiatoday.in/education-today/news/story/iit-kanpur-develops-haptic-smart-watch-for-the-blind-and-the-visually-impaired-1955424-2022-05-28
E.) June 2022 Freedom Scientific Training Events (4.5% of all clicks.)
The Freedom Scientific training team offers ongoing opportunities for you to advance your skills. We're excited to announce our jam-packed June training schedule, where you're sure to find something that will help you at work or play:
https://blog.freedomscientific.com/join-us-for-our-june-2022-training-events/
2) Top Tech Tidbits Seeking Click-To-Vote Quick Poll Questions From Readers
Do you have a multiple choice question related to assistive technology that you would like to get reader feedback on? If you do, send it along, and we will publish it as we have space available:
publisher@toptechtidbits.com
3) Top Tech Tidbits Click-To-Vote Quick Poll 861 Results | 294 Votes
As a blind or vision impaired user of assistive technology which of the following statements best convey your feelings about upgrading to Windows 11?
C.) I have no plans to upgrade to Windows 11. (70 Votes / 24% of all clicks.)
D.) I'm still not sure. Researching. (67 Votes / 23% of all clicks.)
B.) I have already upgraded to Windows 11. (66 Votes / 22% of all clicks.)
A.) I do not use Windows, so this does not apply to me. (48 Votes / 16% of all clicks.)
E.) I bought a new PC and it already had Windows 11 installed. (43 Votes / 15% of all clicks.)
4) JAWS for Windows with Microsoft Teams Power Tip: Opening A Link From A Chat
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/81.html
5) Dolphin SuperNova Power Tip: Easily Toggle Between the Dolphin Cursor and Forms Mode to Complete a Form
Courtesy of Dolphin Computer Access:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/82.html
6) Tips For Using a Screen Reader to Present with Microsoft PowerPoint
Courtesy of Robert Lee Beach, Assistive Technology Specialist:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/83.html
7) The New Frontier of Prosthetics? Tech for Independent Living | Wired
For many, "prosthetics" means wheelchairs and hearing aids. Adults with cognitive disabilities are pioneering a new paradigm for assistive technology:
https://www.wired.com/story/prosthetics-disability-future-of-work/
8) AccessWorld May 2022
Topics include: Editor's Page: Push and Pull in Accessibility | Employment Matters: What Assistive Technologies are Used in the Workplace? Initial research findings by NRTC on Blindness and Low Vision, Mississippi State University | Product Reviews and Guides: Voxmate: A Swiss Army Knife of Easy-to-use Apps for Your Android Phone | A Review of Two Sheet Music Apps: SM Music Reader and Sheet Music Scanner:
https://www.afb.org/aw/23/5
9) Mosen at Large WWDC 2022 Keynote Recap
Jonathan Mosen has published a WWDC 2022 Keynote recap:
Transcript: https://mosen.org/malp0182transcript/
Podcast Audio: https://mosenatlarge.pinecast.co/episode/86738057/a-recap-of-wwdc-from-a-blindness-perspective-
10) Everything Apple Announced at WWDC 2022: New MacBooks, iOS 16, and More | Wired
The company's annual developer conference kicked off on Monday, with a keynote address stuffed with new product news:
https://www.wired.com/story/wwdc-2022-everything-apple-announced/
11) New Accessibility Features Available With iOS 16 | Apple
iOS 16 enhances iPhone with all-new personalization features, deeper intelligence, and seamless ways to communicate and share:
https://www.apple.com/ios/ios-16-preview/features/
12) New Accessibility Features Available with MacOS Ventura | Apple
macOS Ventura makes the things you do most on Mac even better, with powerful new ways to get more done:
https://www.apple.com/macos/macos-ventura-preview/features/
13) Eloquence Finally In iOS
In more iOS 16 news, the popular speech synthesizer, Eloquence, appears to be available to Voiceover. There are apparently a lot of other voices too. There are multiple sources that mention this so here is the AppleVis entry:
https://applevis.com/forum/ios-ipados/eloquence-finally-ios
14) Here's How iOS 16 And macOS 13 Enable Password-less Sign-In With 'Passkeys'
Apple is adopting the FIDO standard for authentication to apps on its iOS and Mac OS platforms released later this year. This will make it easier and more secure to log in to apps and services:
https://9to5mac.com/2022/06/07/passkeys-passwordless-sign-in-ios-16/
15) New Feature in Voice Dream Reader for iOS: Support For Audio Books From Bookshare
The latest update to Voice Dream Reader on iOS offers support for the audio books from Bookshare which have recently been made available. These books can now be downloaded and played from within the app. It is unclear how many of these audio books are being made available for Bookshare members outside of the United States:
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/voice-dream-reader/id496177674
16) iOS and iPadOS 16: The MacStories Overview
At its keynote Apple unveiled the next major versions of iOS and iPadOS: iOS 16 and iPadOS 16. Both OSes will be released for free this fall, with developer betas now available and a public beta to follow next month:
https://www.macstories.net/stories/ios-and-ipados-16-the-macstories-overview/
17) Recording of Humanware Webinar From May 23rd 2022: Brailliant BI X and Mantis Q40 Version 2.0.0 Update | YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u4TWye8ge3U&t=125s
18) Making Data Visualization More Accessible For Blind And Low-Vision Individuals | MIT
Researchers have created prototypes that enable screen-reader users to quickly and easily navigate through multiple levels of information in an online chart:
https://news.mit.edu/2022/data-visualization-accessible-blind-0602
19) Discover Accessible Places
This is a crowd-sourced app for locating and documenting accessible places in your community. It is available on iOS and Android:
https://accessnow.com/
20) Leasey Gets a New Summer Update - Celebrate with a Virtual Event
Earlier this year, we introduced to you version 7 of our popular Leasey product. While Leasey is ideal for the complete computer beginner, by far the vast majority of people who work with Leasey would be intermediate to advanced JAWS users, since there are so many useful tools to enhance productivity and to make computing easier. In version 7, we brought to you a small handful of new improvements. We did not think that was nearly enough. So our Summer Update includes 16 very significant new features we would like to celebrate, and we'd like to show them to you at a virtual event using the Zoom Conferencing platform. This event will take place on Wednesday 29 June at 7 PM UK time which is 2 PM US Eastern. We've never dedicated a virtual event to Leasey before, and this is exactly the right time to do so. At the event, you will hear a demonstration of the new features and have the opportunity to ask any questions regarding them. There may well be questions you have as there is a lot to learn about:
https://hartgenconsultancy.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZItc-qrqTgiHtSK_A--s89V-_uZ4rlIJuoC
21) Google Takes On User Feedback To Make Android Easier For Braille Readers To Use
The multinational technology firm is building out-of-the-box support for users of braille displays so that they can navigate Android devices more easily, thanks to helpful user feedback. Available in Google's next Android 13 Beta, which is due to be released very soon, the firm is building support for braille displays in TalkBack — Google's screen reader within Android:
https://attoday.co.uk/google-takes-on-user-feedback-to-make-android-easier-for-braille-readers-to-use/
22) Save Your Money: The 10 Best Places to Download Free eBooks and Audiobooks
From Project Gutenberg to LibriVox, here's how to find free eBooks and audiobooks online:
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/download-free-ebooks-audiobooks-online
23) Twitter Launches Audio Translations for Charts for Visually Impaired Users
Twitter continues to expand its accessibility tools, this time via the addition of a new option to translate charts into audio elements for visually impaired users:
https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/twitter-launches-audio-translations-for-charts-for-visually-impaired-users/625086/
24) Theia Handheld Guidance Device Ready For The Visually Impaired
The 2022 Design Intelligence Awards season is here. This means we'll hear about new, interesting, and intelligent designs that we know someday will prove very useful. The DIA Award is a program where creatives and designers are free to submit their work and hopefully get funding. As China's premier awards program, it aims to discover good design ideas and develop them. It's all about entrepreneurship and innovation as plans can turn into actual, working products that will grace the consumer market:
https://www.yankodesign.com/2022/05/26/theia-handheld-guidance-device-ready-for-the-visually-impaired/
25) The Origins of Ctrl+C, Ctrl+V, Ctrl+X, and Ctrl+Z Explained
We use them dozens of times a day: The Ctrl+Z, Ctrl+X, Ctrl+C, and Ctrl+V shortcuts that trigger Undo, Cut, Copy, and Paste. But where did they come from, and why does Windows use those particular keys for those functions? We'll explain:
https://www.howtogeek.com/804030/the-origins-of-ctrlc-ctrlv-ctrlx-and-ctrlz-explained/
26) The Ultimate Spotify Keyboard Shortcuts Cheat Sheet
Get more out of Spotify with this cheat sheet of essential Spotify keyboard shortcuts for Windows and Mac:
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/spotify-mac-and-windows-keyboard-shortcuts/
27) Google Updates Android Messaging, Accessibility Features and More
Google unveiled an update for Android users on June 2nd 2022 filled with new messaging and accessibility features:
https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/google-updates-android-messaging-accessibility-features-and-more/#ftag=CADf328eec
28) Dot Inc With Service Plan Reveal Dot Pad, A Smart Tactile Graphics Display For The Visually Impaired
Dot Inc. Korea continues to create innovative tech to improve the lives of blind and visually impaired communities worldwide with the Dot Pad, whose tactile display makes images touchable:
https://campaignbriefasia.com/2022/06/01/dot-inc-with-serviceplan-reveal-dot-pad-a-smart-tactile-graphics-display-for-the-visually-impaired/
29) iRobot Unveils iRobot OS, Understanding the Most Voice Commands
Consumer robotics provider iRobot has introduced iRobot OS, an evolution of its Genius Home Intelligence platform, which it says can understand more voice commands than any other home robot. With approximately 600 supported Alexa, Google Assistant and Siri commands, iRobot OS delivers a wide array of flexible voice-activated cleaning options and understands more voice commands than any other robot, according to the company. iRobot OS powered robots can clean specific rooms using voice and are the only robots that can be told to clean targeted areas like "around the couch," the company claims:
https://www.speechtechmag.com/Articles/News/Speech-Technology-News/iRobot-Unveils-iRobot-OS-Understanding-the-Most-Voice-Commands-153174.aspx
30) Control your Samsung TV with Gesture Interaction
Gesture Interaction allows you to control your TV by using the camera connected to your TV and AI technology to recognize your gestures:
https://www.samsung.com/pk/support/tv-audio-video/control-your-samsung-tv-with-gesture-interaction/
31) 42 Android Secret Codes and Hacks You Need to Know
Android phones are great devices for those who like to have a lot of customization options and control over their device's operating system. Your Android device comes with pre-installed and automatically activated features that ensure your smartphone's security and functionality:
https://www.online-tech-tips.com/smartphones/42-android-secret-codes-and-hacks-you-need-to-know/
32) 12 Keyboard Shortcuts for Tabs in Google Chrome
Tabs are an indispensable part of web browsers. Navigating between tabs and keeping them organized can be a challenge — especially if you love to keep tons of them open. We'll show you some nifty keyboard shortcuts for Google Chrome to help:
https://www.howtogeek.com/807523/12-keyboard-shortcuts-for-tabs-in-google-chrome/
33) Chromebook 101: What Are Those New Keys About, Anyway?
One of the first shocks that you may experience when you buy your first Chromebook probably comes when you look at the keyboard. Where is the Caps Lock key? What (if you have a PixelBook) is that strange-looking key between the Ctrl and Alt keys? What is that key in the top row that looks like a square with two straight lines next to it?
https://www.theverge.com/23150376/chromebook-keyboard-how-to
34) 4 PDF Accessibility Hacks
We've all seen them — Higher ed websites filled with PDFs. Maybe it's the flyer promoting the Chess Club's next meet, the Parents Weekend schedule, or even the new student application instructions — all PDFs, and all with limited or no accessibility:
https://www.stamats.com/insights/pdf-accessibility-hacks/
35) Why Tweet When You Can Chat? How to Use Twitter Spaces for Live Conversations
With Twitter Spaces, the social network's answer to Clubhouse, you can host or join a live audio conversation via the Twitter app on your mobile device:
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/use-twitter-spaces-for-live-audio-conversations
36) From APH: Louis Website Gets New Look, Improved Search
Did you know our Louis Database contains information on over 240 thousand accessible books available from over 75 agencies across the U.S., including APH? Materials listed in Louis include braille, large print, audio, and a range of digital formats. This free service makes it possible for schools, families, and adults to quickly locate information on accessible textbooks and other materials they need with just one search. And when a user includes our unified search partners in the Louis search, this provides access to information on over 1.1 million items!
https://www.aph.org/louis-website-gets-new-look-improved-search/
37) 9 Nifty Windows Folder Tricks You Have to Know
Look after your folders and they'll look after you — use these tips to get a head start:
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/8-nifty-windows-folder-tricks-know/
38) The 10 Most Influential Gadgets of All Time
You may not agree with all of them, especially from an adaptive technology perspective, but it still makes for an interesting read:
https://www.tvc-mall.com/blog/product_knowledge/the_10_most_influential_gadgets_of_all_time_.html
39) Best Continuous Glucose Monitors for 2022
If you're considering switching to a continuous glucose monitor, try one of these:
https://www.cnet.com/health/medical/best-continuous-glucose-monitors-for-2022/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Report: 33% Of Orgs Don't Have A Digital Focus On Accessibility
VentureBeat has a story of how only 54% of companies have an active disability inclusion accessibility policy. The article is here:
https://venturebeat.com/2022/05/27/report-33-of-orgs-dont-have-a-digital-focus-on-accessibility/
And the full report in PDF format is here:
https://www.thevaluable500.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/The-Valuable-Truth-2022.pdf
2) The Coziest Graffiti You'll Ever See Takes Over A London Riverfront Park
This art is intended to raise issues surrounding deaf blindness:
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/london/yarn-bombing-london-ontario-1.6479177
3) Introducing Aira Points — Rewarding Explorer's Loyalty
Introducing Aira Points, our new Explorer loyalty program. It's simple, when you use Aira to meet your visual information needs, you earn Aira Points. Once you accumulate enough points, you can redeem them for rewards. Aira Points will feature specific Aira Access Partners or specific Aira promotions, points will be rewarded for activities related to the specific partner or promotion. Ready to start earning, follow these four steps:
https://aira.io/aira-points
4) CLT Partners with Aira for On-Demand Visual Interpreting
CLT passengers who are blind or have low vision now have free access to the visual interpreting service Aira, which acts as an assistant to help navigate the terminal and answer questions. With the Aira app, passengers can connect with a live Aira agent who will visually interpret their surroundings via the user's smartphone camera. While at CLT, travelers will have free, unlimited access to the service:
https://www.aviationpros.com/airports/airport-technology/press-release/21269770/charlotte-douglas-international-airport-clt-clt-partners-with-aira-for-ondemand-visual-interpreting
5) Illinois State Board Of Elections Launches Accessible Vote-By-Mail Option
The Illinois Board of Elections is launching a new effort to make it easier for those with disabilities to cast a mail-in ballot. The blind and visually impaired can now request a special ballot so that they can vote privately in their own home without assistance. Security envelopes will be mailed out but the actual ballot will be sent electronically. Those interested can contact their local election authority for the special ballot:
https://www.wjol.com/state-board-of-elections-launches-accessible-vote-by-mail-option/
6) Inaccessible Medical Billing: KHN Wants to Hear From You
People who are blind or use a screen reader or other assistive technology to access the web sometimes receive inaccessible medical bills or other health information. We at KHN, a nonprofit newsroom that covers health care, want to better understand the scope of the problem. We know that some people have had bills sent to collections or taken hits to their credit score because of documents they could not access and therefore bills they did not pay. Some examples of inaccessible information are small-print bills or insurance billing websites that screen readers can't access. We would love to hear from you about any challenges you, family members, or colleagues have faced navigating inaccessible medical or health insurance bills:
https://khn.org/news/article/inaccessible-medical-billing-khn-wants-to-hear-from-you/
7) 'After Losing My Sight 21 Years Ago, I Almost Gave Up - Golf Was My Salvation,' Says Champion Player Eddie Maguire (78)
One of Ireland's leading visually impaired golfers — and chairman of Irish Blind Golf — is calling on all people who have an interest in the sport "which literally saved my life" to join the society:
https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/news/after-losing-my-sight-21-years-ago-i-almost-gave-up-golf-was-my-salvation-says-champion-player-eddie-maguire-78-41721258.html
8) For The First Time, A Visually Impaired Cast Performs 'The Braille Legacy' Musical
Clad in a gray overcoat and tidy ascot, Ronnie Chism strides confidently in front of the camera. Chism pauses, then begins to tap the floor with his white cane, creating a rhythmic beat he raps along with:
https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/story/2022-05-27/the-braille-legacy-musical-los-angeles-theatre-by-the-blind
9) Preparing For The Low Vision Patients Of The Future
Low vision aid suppliers, Eschenbach Optik and Sight and Sound Technology, tell Optometry Today about developments in the technology and what patients are looking for:
https://www.aop.org.uk/ot/industry/equipment-and-suppliers/2022/06/06/preparing-for-the-low-vision-patients-of-the-future
➜ Surveys
1) APH Surveys Page
Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) June 2022 Braille Monitor by National Federation of the Blind
June 3rd 2022
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/braille-monitor-june-2022/id818515069?i=1000565124389
2) Mosen At Large Episode 181: Braille HID Expectations And Complexity, A Demo Of Sonos Voice Control, And A Joyous Personal Announcement
3) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 78: Google's Big Week
June 5th 2022 | This week, we talk all things that happened in Google land in the week. We first talk about scams going on across YouTube channels. We then talk about Google opening some Pixel exclusive features to non-Pixel phones. Features such as, improved image support in GBoard, converting Play points to payment methods, sound amplifier. Google Lookout brings image recognition feature which is currently in Beta. Ware OS beta opens for testing on Samsung and other ware OS brands. For our users of CSR, listener demoed granular editing feature. And for TalkBack users the screen search was demoed:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqpi3iSU1GC_jpmG0Sv7ZJ-4
4) Blind Abilities Podcast Episode 859: Accessing Arts And Science: The Luminato Festival Toronto Access Hub, The Accessible Descriptions And Sonifications On The Chandra X-Ray Observatory Web Site And Sci-Fi On The Talk Description To Me Podcast
June 7th 2022 | Christine Malec, co-host of the Talk Description to Me podcast, returns to the Blind Abilities Studio to bring us the news about the Luminato Festival Toronto Access Hub, The Chandra X-Ray Observatory Sonifications and descriptions from images from deep within our Universe and highlights some of the Star Trek and other topics from the over 106 Talk Description to Me episodes:
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7435
5) Eyes on Success Episode 2223: Pet Peeves of a Blind Person
June 8th 2022 | People who are blind have many ways of adapting in a world that consists of primarily sighted people. Sometimes though, being blind can be frustrating, especially when simple changes that could be made to make our lives easier are not made. This week hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk about some of Peter's pet peeves as a blind person:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202223.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Home and Self Care Tips from the Field using Magnification | Vispero
June 9th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Join Mike and Michelle on Thursday, June 9, 2022, as they share helpful tips for everyday activities using video magnification. Hear some great tips on how to use magnification to control your home, kitchen and self-care activities. Learn what products are the best fit for various types of tasks. Objectives: 1. Distance cameras for self-care and home management. 2. Cooking in the kitchen safely with video magnification. 3. To roll or not to roll? Using a rolling table or specialty tables for larger desktops and what types are out there. 4. Watching TV with a desktop or head worn device successfully. Vispero Presenters: Mike Wood and Michelle Williams. Enter to Win $500 Towards a Vispero Product! We'll be choosing one lucky winner to receive $500 towards the product of their choice from Freedom Scientific, Optelec, or Enhanced Vision! This offer is open to U.S. attendees only. You must be present at the time of the drawing to win. ACVREP Credits: ACVREP credits will be available for those who attend the live webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_cXTS4xBKQc2QL4YB62vGhw
2) Using iOS Shortcuts | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 9th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Thursday June 9, 2:00 - 3:30 PM Eastern. Shortcuts can be used to automate tasks and save time. Join us to explore examples of effective shortcuts and learn to create your own. This event will take place in person and online. Email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to RSVP in person, or register to participate online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZElc-itrjgvHNDogsDg6wMe47pOluSIcXYI?_x_zm_rtaid=O_T4jl2gQk-eJ1vIXaeqDw.1648421599270.e098cddc0d3e6ab8b653afe6c5833f53&_x_zm_rhtaid=371
3) Help Students Become The Architects Of Their Own Learning With Mindomo | The Network Of Assistive Technologists
June 10th 2022 | 10:30 AM PT, 11:30 AM MT, 12:30 PM CT, 1:30 PM ET, 5:30 PM GMT | Join The Network of Assistive Technologists as we welcome Mindomo. Discover Mindomo as a reliable and easy-to-use tool for educating tomorrow's thinkers today. An almost-all-in-one tool covering both individual and collaborative work on mind maps, concept maps, org charts, timelines, and outlines, Mindomo will make it easy for you to promote students' independent learning and study skills. Its top features include quick enrollment for students and teachers, automatic license distribution, a great variety of integrations, predefined templates with completion guidelines, automatic sharing of files between teachers and students, diverse formatting, import and export options, and over 40 other features. Registration is now open. Visit the N.O.A.T. Events Site for more information and to register:
https://sites.google.com/NOAT.ca/events/
4) Gadgets and Apps for Safe Navigation | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
June 11th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. There are many apps and devices that can aid a visually impaired traveler through the unknown. Avoid low-hanging obstacles and other obstructions. Which ones can you afford and which ones offer the best protection?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
5) Tactile Drawing from Still Life | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 11th 2022 | 10:30 AM PT, 11:30 AM MT, 12:30 PM CT, 1:30 PM ET, 5:30 PM GMT | Saturday June 11th 2022 from 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM Eastern In this hands-on workshop, we'll explore still life scenes of 3D objects and then create accessible tactile drawings. A variety of tactile media will be offered. This hands-on event will take place in person. Please email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to RSVP.
6) How to Retrofit Your Self-Service Kiosk for Usability and Accessibility | TPGi
June 14th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenter: Laura Boniello Miller, Director of Business Development, Vispero and Traci Murray, Director of Business Development, Vispero. Join Laura Boniello Miller to discuss retrofitting options for making your kiosk deployment accessible to users with disabilities. You have already purchased and deployed kiosks but want (or need) to make them usable, accessible, and ADA/CSA compliant according to US and/or Canadian standards. Learn about the process you may need to follow and how you might retrofit your self-service kiosks quickly and efficiently:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-june-14-at-12pm-et-how-to-retrofit-your-self-service-kiosk-for-usability-and-accessibility/
7) | Dialog Boxes with JAWS Using Speech & Braille (ACVREP CE Approved) | Access Ingenuity
June 15th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Dialog boxes often appear and play a critical role while working with Windows, JAWS, and various applications. It's good to understand dialog boxes and the Windows and JAWS commands needed to work with them efficiently. Join Rachel Reeves, Marisa Church, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity with Joe McDaniel from Vispero to explore various dialog boxes to understand how they work with JAWS and Windows. It is important to note that this presentation will benefit those who want to know how to work with dialog boxes using JAWS with either a QWERTY keyboard or a Focus braille display. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: Understand dialog boxes, when they appear, and what JAWS does to indicate that an action will open a dialog box. Explore the various keyboard and braille commands to work with dialog box controls such as edit boxes, combo boxes, radio buttons, checkboxes, standard buttons, changing pages, etc. Explore the JAWS commands for locating and reading read-only information within a dialog box. | Meeting ID: 872 1037 6004 | Passcode: 781932 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,87210376004#,,,,*781932# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87210376004?pwd=N3cxM0h4SE4xTHJjODZUUGxLSGlmQT09
8) Intro to Google Translate | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 15th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Wednesday June 15th 2022 from 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM Eastern. Take a deep dive into this powerful cross-platform tool for translation. We'll explore how to translate from speech, text, handwriting and the camera; how to build a list of phrases you use often; and what you need to know about conversational and continuous translation. This event will take place in person and online. Email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to attend in person, or register to participate online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZElc-itrjgvHNDogsDg6wMe47pOluSIcXYI?_x_zm_rtaid=5aP3v6sNTtuCFyUfVDXxaQ.1648429186785.e6167c6b9ddb64d3c5052fc57b1d89aa&_x_zm_rhtaid=506
9) Prep and Proof Google Documents Using Suggesting Mode and Comments with JAWS | Vispero
June 16th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Are you looking for ways to revise Google documents with JAWS? Want to know how to navigate comments and track changes? Join us Thursday, June 16, 2022, at noon Eastern Time for a live webinar, "Prep and Proof Google Documents Using Suggesting Mode and Comments with JAWS." We'll provide an overview of Google Docs Suggesting Mode, and show you how to: Navigate comments left by other collaborators. Turn on Suggesting Mode. Navigate, accept, and reject suggested changes from other collaborators. ACVREP credits will be available for those who attend the live webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_qEa1IT2ETayPg4Sh7ktk_A
10) 2022 Braille Literacy Canada Symposium
June 17th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Braille Literacy Canada (BLC) will be holding its second annual virtual braille symposium. This event will be of interest to braille readers, educators, transcribers, parents, producers and anyone else with a passion for braille literacy! The schedule of events is as follows: 1:00pm EST: Revitalising Braille through a Grass Roots Community (Matthew Horspool and Dave Williams, Braillists Foundation) 2:00pm EST: Hadley's Braille for Everyday Use (Douglas Walker and Dr. Kim Walker, Hadley) 3:00pm EST: What is the science of reading, and what does it teach us about braille contractions? (Dr. Robert Englebretson, Rice University) 4:00pm EST: Walking Through Paths to Literacy For All Things Braille (Kate Borg, Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired). Each presentation will be approximately 30 minutes long, followed by a 15 minute question-and-answer period, and then a 15 minute intermission. Register at:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0rcuqgqTgoHNE6DUAxovR0glJTq4v53gFQ
11) How to Create Accessible Videos | Access Ingenuity
June 22nd 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12AM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Do you create videos for YouTube or other platforms? This presentation will review the components of accessible videos and how to make them. Join Michael Parker from Access Ingenuity to learn about creating accessible videos, including captions, audio descriptions, and descriptive text transcripts. Learning Outcomes: Learn the main elements of an accessible video to comply with WCAG 2.1 Guidelines. Learn how to edit captions on YouTube. Learn how to design videos so that they meet audio description requirements. Learn the basics of creating descriptive text transcripts. | Meeting ID: 891 2139 8335 | Passcode: 616098 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,89121398335#,,,,*616098# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89121398335?pwd=bENxNldHa2RqaDFZdmVCakhESDQrUT09
12) Eye Drop Webinar | Accessible Pharmacy
June 22nd 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | This webinar will have a live ASL interpreter, and closed captioning. If you are unable to attend, still be sure to register to receive access to the webinar audio and video via email afterwards. Please join us as we discuss tips and techniques for using eye drops as well as trends in eye drop refill legislation. Speakers will include experts from The Chicago Lighthouse and Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind. Questions? Please contact info@accessiblepharmacy.com 📧️. To read about the speakers and to register, click the link below:
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/eye-drop-webinar/
13) Easy Portable Reading — The OmniReader | Access Ingenuity
June 19th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | The omniReader is the definition of easy by allowing you to read printed text by pressing a single button. You can follow the magnified text in high-contrast colors on the built-in screen or listen as the omniReader reads text aloud. You can also use the screen to instantly magnify objects and text and display them in high-contrast colors to see them more clearly. Thanks to its lightweight design, built-in handle, and long battery life, you can pick it up and use it wherever you want - at home, at the office, and even on the go. Join Ian Ramos from Access Ingenuity and Joseph McDaniel from Vispero as they explain the critical assistive role this machine plays to the visually impaired. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: Features walkthrough of the omniReader. Explanation of the primary and secondary assistive benefits. How the omniReader can be an effective reading tool. | Meeting ID: 832 7410 0965 | Passcode: 575948 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83274100965#,,,,*575948# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83274100965?pwd=VE5BekE2RUVZaldBVkZFTXQ0Z3pRUT09
14) Accessible Book Apps | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
July 9th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Accessibility can mean smartphone, computer, e-reader, or smart device. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
15) NaviLens and Apple air Tags | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
August 13th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Labeling and tracking just got a whole lot easier! Learn how to use these exciting new products. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
16) Pixel Phone | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
September 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Has Android bridged the gap with Apple with this remarkable new device? All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
17) iOS 16 Review And Editing Voice Memos | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
October 1st 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Every year we look for accessibility improvements in our i-devices. See what is new in this latest version of the Apple operating system. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
18) AT Gifts for the Holidays | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Our annual look at gadgets and gizmos that will make your holiday season a successful one. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
19) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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 New Humanware Braillenote Touch Plus 32 in Retail Box
Listing Date: 5/26/2022 | Price: $2,875.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: I have a new Humanware Braillenote Touch Plus 32 with all its accessories still in its retail box I can sell for about half price of retail. So asking about $2,875 USD or best offer. Of course, since it is new, everything is perfect. :) Text me. | Contact: Jay via email at: JS5lio021@gmail.com 📧️ or by phone / text at: (816) 659-0044 📱️. |
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: Clusiv
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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 from BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Control the climate of your home independently! The VIP 3000 is a universal heating — cooling talking thermostat This accessible digital thermostat is specifically designed to offer audio playback of indoor temperature, temperature settings and programming instructions so blind and visually impaired users can independently & precisely manage their indoor comfort. Don't over pay. Read more at:
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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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
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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Start Your Coding Journey Today with APH's Road to Code!
Want to learn more about coding but don't know where to start? Look no further! APH's Road to Code provides a roadmap for coding progression through all our fun and engaging coding products.
https://bit.ly/3HueRfI
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:
(1) Our new Evo 12 is here; stereo speakers, impressive sound for a tiny unit; stereo recording, both alone or w/Internet/FM radio, edit mp3 files on the player; $289, $299 w/leather case. (2) Talking 3 item medical bundle: convention special through 07/31, $120, $140 w/new leather case. (3) Our new leather "Hermione" bottomless bag; two lined interior compartments; big enough for a Mantis to fit perfectly, $65. (4) $25 leather waist pack, 17 by 6 by 3.5 inches; has 15 inch cane holder. Converted gun case. Not quite as deep as I would like, bought 50 of them, my mistake, your gain. For additional information, contact Barry Scheur at (617) 969-7500 📱️ / bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️ or Kae at (781) 286-1696 📱️ / guidelightdogs@gmail.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, affordable, 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
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: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ Free SuperNova 10-min Trainings Every Tuesday
Join Miranda McPherson, professor, AT Trainer, and SuperNova user as she delivers a series of practical 10-20 minute training webinars that will help trainers, assessors, and users build proficiency using SuperNova with common applications and on the web. Participate live every Tuesday 9am PT - 11am CT - 12pm ET or watch the recordings at your leisure:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/en-us/supernova-everyday-essentials
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Your Name Here
0 of 14 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 14 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are 0 of 14 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, June 2, 2022 - Volume 861
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, June 2, 2022 - Volume 861
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.
Subscribers: 7,265 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email. 115 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
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., Double Tap TV, Clusiv, and Dolphin Computer Access.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Online Courses For People With Disabilities, By People With Disabilities (8.2% of all clicks.)
Fable Pathways is a new online education program. It is free. Right now, it consists of 2 courses, but here is hoping that more will be added in the future::
https://fablepathways.com/
B.) List of all Windows 10 Keyboard Shortcuts: The Ultimate Guide (7.2% of all clicks.)
Windows 10 includes a slew of keyboard shortcuts to make your experience easier around the desktop, and here are all of them:
https://www.windowscentral.com/best-windows-10-keyboard-shortcuts
C.) 7 Common Mistakes That Are Damaging Your Smartphone (6.8% of all clicks.)
Everyone does it. We're all human, after all. But, if you avoid these mistakes, your smartphone is guaranteed to last longer:
https://www.makeuseof.com/common-mistakes-damaging-smartphone/
D.) 5 Tips For Preventing Hearing Loss Caused By Headphones (6.5% of all clicks.)
Thanks to remote work and school, and ever-increasing amounts of smartphone and tablet use, we spend a lot of time wearing headphones. Let us help you protect your ears with five tips to reduce or eliminate the long-term hearing damage these devices can cause:
https://www.zdnet.com/article/how-to-prevent-hearing-loss-caused-by-headphones/
E.) 10 Things Blocking Your Wi-Fi Signal at Home (6.1% of all clicks.)
There are a surprising number of things in your home — from the type of material your walls are made of to the kind of things you decorate your home with — that can degrade your Wi-Fi signal:
https://www.howtogeek.com/802892/things-blocking-your-wi-fi-signal-at-home/
2) Top Tech Tidbits Publisher Updates for June 2nd 2022
We have some really important updates this week. If you are a Sponsor, Sponsor-in-Waiting or Content Contributor please be sure to review these updates when you have the opportunity. They include: Top Tech Tidbits Click-To-Vote Quick Polls Are A Hit | Attention Sponsors and Potential Sponsors: Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Package Availability | Attention Sponsors: New Sponsor Benefit Announcement | Attention Sponsors And Weekly Content Providers: New Submission Deadline of 6:00 PM ET | Top Tech Tidbits Welcomes Blind Abilities as a Top Tech Tidbits Partner:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/79.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Welcomes Clusiv
Please join all of us here at Top Tech Tidbits in welcoming aboard Clusiv, who has generously agreed to support the distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication via sponsorship for the next year. Clusiv is the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. They are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. They are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. And they are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more today at:
https://clusiv.io/
4) Top Tech Tidbits Welcomes Dolphin Computer Access
Please join all of us here at Top Tech Tidbits in welcoming aboard Dolphin Computer Access, who has generously agreed to support the distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication via sponsorship for the next quarter. Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind and magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision. Learn more today at:
https://yourdolphin.com/
5) Top Tech Tidbits Click-To-Vote Quick Poll 860 Results | 185 Votes
Having read that an Amber Alert heard through a pair of AirPods has caused permanent hearing loss and damage, which of the following best describes how you will use ear buds going forward?
A.) This information will not change how I use ear buds. (62 Votes / 34% of all clicks.)
B.) I plan to turn off AMBER Alerts. (52 Votes / 28% of all clicks.)
C.) I plan to do more research. (37 Votes / 20% of all clicks.)
D.) I do not plan to use ear buds again. (34 Votes / 18% of all clicks.)
6) Top Tech Tidbits Click-To-Vote Quick Poll 861
As a blind or vision impaired user of assistive technology which of the following statements best convey your feelings about upgrading to Windows 11?
A.) I do not use Windows, so this does not apply to me.
Click-To-Vote Link: https://bit.ly/ttt-poll861-a
B.) I have already upgraded to Windows 11.
Click-To-Vote Link: https://bit.ly/ttt-poll861-b
C.) I have no plans to upgrade to Windows 11.
Click-To-Vote Link: https://bit.ly/ttt-poll861-c
D.) I'm still not sure. Researching.
Click-To-Vote Link: https://bit.ly/ttt-poll861-d
E.) I bought a new PC and it already had Windows 11 installed.
Click-To-Vote Link: https://bit.ly/ttt-poll861-e
7) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: Identifying Single-line Ribbon Versus Multi-line Ribbon
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/80.html
8) 2022 Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) Recordings from TPGi | YouTube
A.) May 17th 2022 — You Don't Know, What You Don't Know
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gw9v8J_kHZI
B.) May 18th 2022 — How to Create an Accessible Kiosk Experience (Ask Me Anything)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IyKw1rpwgiY
C.) May 19th 2022 — Creating Inclusive Customer Experiences Through Digital Accessibility
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3CDgcu1iGs
9) DAISY Music Braille Project: New Tutorial Video 'Screenreader Accessibility in MuseScore' | YouTube
Getting started with a screen reader in MuseScore 3. Demonstrates score creation, navigation, and note input with NVDA:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6bRfouJa6oA
10) What's New in Duxbury DBT 12.6
https://duxburysystems.com/dbt_new.asp?f3=USA
11) Version 2.0 — Brailliant BI X and Mantis Q40 Update
HumanWare has announced the launch of a significant KeySoft Lite update to the Brailliant BI X braille displays, including unlocking audio capabilities, a new braille editor application, and improvements to the terminal connectivity:
https://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/260520220925-BIX-Mantis-update.htm
12) BrailleBlaster 2.0.38-Stable Released May 11th 2022
Welcome to BrailleBlaster 2.0.38-stable. When you first run this version you will immediately notice something different, a first run wizard will appear and lead you through configuring some important new settings. Whilst it was introduced to give you better control over what BrailleBlaster does, it will also give us a way to alert you to features in new versions. There also have been a number of smaller improvements and some significant bug fixes:
https://www.brailleblaster.org/download.php
13) Conveniently Use Your Mobile Devices Anywhere with the Hable One, Audio Documentation | To Be Released on July 1st 2022 | $17 - $19 USD | Mystic Access
Learn to navigate and type on your iOS or mobile devices with ease using the compact, high-quality, and intuitively-designed Hable One. This audio documentation orients you to the product, shows you how to hold it, compares it to the Orbit Writer, demonstrates device pairing, and takes you through many real world navigation and typing tasks. Learn to make calls, send messages, browse the Internet, send email, use Siri and the Google Assistant, and more, without ever needing to touch your mobile device. Please read below for additional information:
https://www.mysticaccess.com/product/conveniently-use-your-mobile-devices-anywhere-with-the-hable-one-audio-documentation/
14) Gmail Adds Image Alt-Text To Help The Visually Impaired
Google said the image alt-text feature on Gmail is rolling out immediately. This will particularly help people who rely on screen readers to get an accurate audio description of an image. Additionally, people who use American Sign Language or ASL will welcome the addition of multi-pin on Google Meet. Using this feature, people who are deaf or hard of hearing can pin both the presenter and the interpreter's screen together, thereby speeding up communication:
https://www.androidheadlines.com/2022/05/gmail-adds-image-alt-text-to-help-the-visually-impaired.html
15) June 2022 Freedom Scientific Training Events
The Freedom Scientific training team offers ongoing opportunities for you to advance your skills. We're excited to announce our jam-packed June training schedule, where you're sure to find something that will help you at work or play:
https://blog.freedomscientific.com/join-us-for-our-june-2022-training-events/
16) NV Access In Process for May 31st 2022
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-31st-may-2022/
17) #CSUNATC22 Audio: Finding Layers Of Context With The Dynamic Tactile Device From APH
https://www.blindbargains.com/bargains.php?m=22491
18) Google Drive Is Finally Getting Cut, Copy And Paste Keyboard Shortcuts
How did these shortcuts not already exist?
https://www.androidpolice.com/google-drive-keyboard-shortcuts-browser/
19) BrailleSense 6 and BrailleSense 6 Mini Firmware Update
The latest firmware for the BrailleSense 6 is now available! You can download the firmware by going to Utilities (u) then Upgrade (u), then choose "online" and press Enter. Alternatively, you can install the firmware offline by downloading the latest version here:
https://hims-inc.com/bs6-resources/latest-braillesense-6-firmware/
20) AppleVis Unlimited: What's New and Noteworthy for May 2022
https://www.applevis.com/newsletter/applevis-unlimited-whats-new-noteworthy-may-2022
21) Students Can Listen To Free Audiobooks And Read Ebooks All Summer Long
Students often let reading slide to the summertime, but it is important to build good habits and read all of the time. In response, OverDrive Education is offering the most expansive Sora Sweet Reads summer reading program yet, May 4-August 17. In its ninth year, this free program is designed to help educators and students beat the "summer slide" with popular digital reading materials through the award-winning Sora student reading app. Currently, over 53,000 schools around the world are opting into the program. If your school offers access to Sora, find your digital collection at https://soraapp.com. If not, schools can sign up before June 17 to gain access to the Sora Sweet Reads collection as well as a wide range of other no-cost books:
https://goodereader.com/blog/digital-library-news/students-can-listen-to-free-audiobooks-and-read-ebooks-all-summer-long
22) Android or iOS: Getting Started | Which Operating System Is More Friendly To Blind Beginners?
In this post, I'll go over what it's like as a blind person to get started with the phones, from first touch to setup. I'll first go over how an iPhone user would see things, then an Android user. Hopefully, this sparks discussion over phone design, user experience, and how blind people should truly have their voices heard at the real start of projects, and not at the start of the top-layer user interface:
https://medium.com/@r.d.t.prater/android-or-ios-getting-started-8ec6813c75e6
23) Microsoft Begins Testing New 'One Outlook' Email Client With Insiders
Microsoft's new web-based Outlook client is now official. It is available now for Insiders in the Office Beta Channel. The preview is only for commercial accounts with personal coming later:
https://www.windowscentral.com/microsoft-begins-testing-new-one-outlook-email-client-insiders
24) 6 Ways to Fix Zoom Crashing or Freezing
Zoom crashing or freezing is understandably frustrating, especially if you need to join an important call that's time-sensitive. But don't worry, we're here to get you sorted. Follow these troubleshooting steps in turn and Zoom's crashes and freezes will be a thing of the past:
https://www.makeuseof.com/fix-zoom-crashing-or-freezing/
25) How AI Is Improving The Web For The Visually Impaired
The Problem: Consider these two sample buttons that you might find on a web page or mobile app. Each has a simple background, so they seem similar:
https://venturebeat.com/2022/05/19/how-ai-is-improving-the-web-for-the-visually-impaired/
26) IIT Kanpur Develops Haptic Smartwatch For The Blind And The Visually Impaired
IIT Kanpur researchers have developed a touch-sensitive or haptic smartwatch for the blind and the visually impaired that offers various features to help in day-to-day life:
https://www.indiatoday.in/education-today/news/story/iit-kanpur-develops-haptic-smart-watch-for-the-blind-and-the-visually-impaired-1955424-2022-05-28
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) AccessReady Reporter | Issue 27 | May 26th 2022
The Reporter Newsletter is a service of Access Ready Inc. which is an independent, non-profit, cross-disability education and advocacy organization promoting a policy of inclusion and accessibility of information and communications technology (ICT). For people with disabilities, accessible information and communications technology is a necessity, not a luxury or a convenience, which fosters independence, economic self-sufficiency, and active, meaningful participation in civic life:.
http://accessreadyreporter.org/issue-27-may-26-2022.html
2) My Thoughts on the Current State of macOS as a Blind User
Since 2005, I have used a variety of Macs, and have regularly used every version of macOS from Tiger to Monterey since then. Over that time, I've witnessed the various changes to VoiceOver, both major and minor, as well as how VoiceOver on macOS helped usher in a whole new world of mobile accessibility on iOS and iPadOS:
https://www.applevis.com/blog/my-thoughts-current-state-macos-blind-user
3) The Wacky World of Flexible Records | APH
For a time during their heyday in the 1960s and 70s, flexible records were seemingly everywhere and yet nowhere, and by that I mean for most people they remained a novelty. The Beatles put out a Christmas record every year for their fan clubs. McDonald's issued a record with their latest jingle misrecorded. One version would win a big prize. They were basically tricking you into listening to their advertising. Computer magazines even tucked audio into their issues in the form of something called "audio software." I have no idea how that worked. And in the midst of all this craziness, the American Printing House for the Blind got into the business too:
https://www.aph.org/the-wacky-world-of-flexible-records/
4) FDA Clears Abbott's Freestyle Libre 3 Glucose Sensor
The updated CGM will launch later in 2022:
https://www.cnet.com/health/medical/fda-clears-abbotts-freestyle-libre-3-glucose-sensor/#ftag=CADf328eec
5) Waymap Starts Guiding Blind People Through Washington Subway Stations
The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) partnered with UK-based Waymap(Opens in a new window) to bring audio navigation to the capital's Brookland, Silver Spring, and Braddock Road subway stations:
https://www.pcmag.com/news/waymap-starts-guiding-blind-people-through-washington-subway-stations
6) How GoodMaps Is Helping The Louisville Airport Improve Accessibility
The Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) has become the first airport in the country to utilize technology that helps blind and visually-impaired users navigate indoors:
https://www.bizjournals.com/louisville/inno/stories/news/2022/05/20/goodmaps-sdf-explore.html
7) Apple's iPhone Development Schedule Delayed By China Lockdowns
Apple, Inc. has told its suppliers to speed up iPhone development after China's strict COVID-19 lockdowns hampered schedule for at least one of the new phones, Nikkei reported, citing multiple sources with knowledge of the matter:
https://www.reuters.com/technology/apples-iphone-development-schedule-delayed-by-china-lockdowns-nikkei-2022-05-25/
8) 'It Means Freedom': App Helps Visually Impaired Navigate Metro System | Video
A new app is the first of its kind to guide the blind and visually impaired through Metro stations step-by-step. News4's Adam Tuss explains how it works:
https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/it-means-freedom-app-helps-visually-impaired-navigate-metro-system/3060676/
9) On 'Strange New Worlds,' Meet The Blind Telepathic Engineer
'Star Trek: Strange New Worlds' co-stars Bruce Horak as Hemmer. Bruce Horak is a Visually Impaired Performer Creator, according to his website. He's an actor, playwright, composer, visual artist, and other things, so that sounds about right. He's also legally blind, seeing about 9% of what the average person does. On May 5, 2022, the relatively unknown Canadian co-stars in "Star Trek: Strange New Worlds," the latest installment of the venerable franchise. Horak portrays Hemmer, a blind telepathic Aenar who works as an engineer on the USS Enterprise. A company Hemmer is a tyrant at work, but he's also a miracle worker:
https://technotrenz.com/entertainment/on-strange-new-worlds-meet-the-blind-telepathic-engineer-1870634.html
➜ Surveys
1) APH Surveys Page
Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) The Beauty of Dusk: On Vision Lost and Found | Hadley Presents: A Conversation with the Experts
March 27th 2022 | NYT Columnist Frank Bruni returns to the podcast to talk about his new book. Frank describes his personal experiences with vision loss and how, with time, his perspective has grown:
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/beauty-dusk-vision-lost-and-found?utm_source=sfmc&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Hadley+Presents+-+Episode+56+-+Frank+Bruni&utm_term=button&utm_id=40680&sfmc_id=17577827
2) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 77: Get That Storage Under Control
May 28th 2022 | This week, we take a look at storage settings in Android and talk about the storage restrictions introduced by Google in later versions of Android for user safety. In our spotlight section we show how to setup an Amazon Echo Dot using a Samsung Galaxy phone. In our tip of the week, we show our listeners how to run 3rd party accessibility services which will help users of Commentary Screen Reader (CSR). You can find our podcast on all podcast apps, Spotify and on this YouTube playlist:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqpi3iSU1GC_jpmG0Sv7ZJ-4
3) Mosen At Large Episode 180: Looking Ahead To WWDC, Google Finally Answers The Braille Question, And Author Of After Steve, Tripp Mickle
4) Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther Episode 52: Listening for Storms
May 29th 2022 | Episode 52 of The AMI Audio podcast Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther is all about listening for storms beginning with the sound of Northern Lights. Ms Lilly schools us on the Parker Solar Probe, and Lawrence provides tips on how to get the most out of your weather app. Guest Dave Brown and Lawrence explore solar storm impacts on digital technology, and Lawrence reflects on his own close call with a recent deadly weather event:
https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/episode-52-listening-for-storms/id1530444764?i=1000564432415
5) Blind Abilities Podcast Episode 857: Tech Abilities: Anticipation 6-6, Weather App Alerts, Facebook/Twitter Accessibility, Apple's 22 Min-Pay, SOS setup, Clipboard list, Audio Description and More Tech Tidbits and News from a Blindness Perspective
June 1st 2022 | Two is company as Callie takes a break from the Blind Abilities Studio this week and Serina and Jeff pick up the tech tidbits and news. From accessibility to losing sight, they dash through the latest and bring a perspective of experience and usability. Join the 2 out of 3 ain't bad crew and check out the list of topics listed below. But, believe us, there is a lot between the lines!
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7429
6) Eyes on Success Episode 2222: Voice Dream Reader for macOS
June 1st 2022 | The award-winning Voice Dream Reader app is used by many Voiceover users and others around the world to read and listen to documents in many formats. Originally developed for iOS, this powerful productivity tool now comes to macOS. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with the developer, Winston Chen, about the app, its features, and its development:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202222.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Beginners | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 4th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) 1:00 - 2:15 PM ET. If you're new to using Voiceover on the iPhone or if you're still working toward confidence, this discussion group is for you. We'll spend some time going over the theory of how screen readers work, gestures everyone needs to know, and some strategies for getting help. Then, we'll open it up for questions and networking. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
2) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Users: Beyond the Basics | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 4th 2022 | 11:30AM PT, 12:30AM, 1:30PM CT, 2:30PM ET, 6:30PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) from 2:30 - 4:00 PM ET. Talk about customizing gestures and settings, exploring new apps, choosing accessories, dealing with bugs, and whatever else comes to mind. This is a space for any and all Voiceover topics that go beyond the basics of using common gestures and built-in apps. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
3) The Web is Inherently Accessible | TPGi
June 8th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Talk aimed at front-end developers or anyone using the basics of HTML to create content for the web. Join TPGi's Rachele DiTullio, Senior Accessibility Engineer, as Rachele explains how the web is accessible by default and that it's design choices that make the web inaccessible. The web is accessible by default; it is our design decisions that stop it being accessible. We need to develop accessible pages from the bottom up, starting with semantic HTML. Many designers and developers have a poor grasp of what native elements to use and what functionality they provide. Every semantic mistake introduces accessibility issues into your code. In this session, you will learn: When to use a link or a button. Why to use headings. How to create form fields. When to use tables. How to create accessible images, font icons and emojis. Register today!
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-the-web-is-inherently-accessible/
4) Ideal Computer Configurations for Assistive Technology Users | Access Ingenuity
June 8th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | While there are general default settings in Windows, there are also unique default settings for various brands and models of Windows computers. Contrary to popular belief, one does not have to accept the default configurations if it is not ideal for your specific needs. While this is generally the case, it is especially true when working with assistive technology. Join Ian Ramos and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity to discuss some default settings that can cause challenges when working with assistive technology and possible solutions. Learning Outcomes: Explain the idea of a turnkey computer for assistive technology. Discuss some critical Windows default settings to change. Introduce some Windows and Office settings that some may want to customize. Explain some specific brand and model defaults that you may need a technician to configure. | Meeting ID: 899 8366 3728 | Passcode: 781130 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,89983663728#,,,,*781130# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89983663728?pwd=UW1QdHpya2FxZjdldU1HWXBqQ2w3Zz09
5) Using iOS Shortcuts | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 9th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Thursday June 9, 2:00 - 3:30 PM Eastern. Shortcuts can be used to automate tasks and save time. Join us to explore examples of effective shortcuts and learn to create your own. This event will take place in person and online. Email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to RSVP in person, or register to participate online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZElc-itrjgvHNDogsDg6wMe47pOluSIcXYI?_x_zm_rtaid=O_T4jl2gQk-eJ1vIXaeqDw.1648421599270.e098cddc0d3e6ab8b653afe6c5833f53&_x_zm_rhtaid=371
6) Gadgets and Apps for Safe Navigation | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
June 11th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. There are many apps and devices that can aid a visually impaired traveler through the unknown. Avoid low-hanging obstacles and other obstructions. Which ones can you afford and which ones offer the best protection?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
7) Tactile Drawing from Still Life | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 11th 2022 | 10:30 AM PT, 11:30 AM MT, 12:30 PM CT, 1:30 PM ET, 5:30 PM GMT | Saturday June 11th 2022 from 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM Eastern In this hands-on workshop, we'll explore still life scenes of 3D objects and then create accessible tactile drawings. A variety of tactile media will be offered. This hands-on event will take place in person. Please email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to RSVP.
8) | Dialog Boxes with JAWS Using Speech & Braille (ACVREP CE Approved) | Access Ingenuity
June 15th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Dialog boxes often appear and play a critical role while working with Windows, JAWS, and various applications. It's good to understand dialog boxes and the Windows and JAWS commands needed to work with them efficiently. Join Rachel Reeves, Marisa Church, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity with Joe McDaniel from Vispero to explore various dialog boxes to understand how they work with JAWS and Windows. It is important to note that this presentation will benefit those who want to know how to work with dialog boxes using JAWS with either a QWERTY keyboard or a Focus braille display. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: Understand dialog boxes, when they appear, and what JAWS does to indicate that an action will open a dialog box. Explore the various keyboard and braille commands to work with dialog box controls such as edit boxes, combo boxes, radio buttons, checkboxes, standard buttons, changing pages, etc. Explore the JAWS commands for locating and reading read-only information within a dialog box. | Meeting ID: 872 1037 6004 | Passcode: 781932 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,87210376004#,,,,*781932# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87210376004?pwd=N3cxM0h4SE4xTHJjODZUUGxLSGlmQT09
9) Intro to Google Translate | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 15th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Wednesday June 15th 2022 from 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM Eastern. Take a deep dive into this powerful cross-platform tool for translation. We'll explore how to translate from speech, text, handwriting and the camera; how to build a list of phrases you use often; and what you need to know about conversational and continuous translation. This event will take place in person and online. Email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to attend in person, or register to participate online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZElc-itrjgvHNDogsDg6wMe47pOluSIcXYI?_x_zm_rtaid=5aP3v6sNTtuCFyUfVDXxaQ.1648429186785.e6167c6b9ddb64d3c5052fc57b1d89aa&_x_zm_rhtaid=506
10) 2022 Braille Literacy Canada Symposium
June 17th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Braille Literacy Canada (BLC) will be holding its second annual virtual braille symposium. This event will be of interest to braille readers, educators, transcribers, parents, producers and anyone else with a passion for braille literacy! The schedule of events is as follows: 1:00pm EST: Revitalising Braille through a Grass Roots Community (Matthew Horspool and Dave Williams, Braillists Foundation) 2:00pm EST: Hadley's Braille for Everyday Use (Douglas Walker and Dr. Kim Walker, Hadley) 3:00pm EST: What is the science of reading, and what does it teach us about braille contractions? (Dr. Robert Englebretson, Rice University) 4:00pm EST: Walking Through Paths to Literacy For All Things Braille (Kate Borg, Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired). Each presentation will be approximately 30 minutes long, followed by a 15 minute question-and-answer period, and then a 15 minute intermission. Register at:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0rcuqgqTgoHNE6DUAxovR0glJTq4v53gFQ
11) How to Create Accessible Videos | Access Ingenuity
June 22nd 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12AM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Do you create videos for YouTube or other platforms? This presentation will review the components of accessible videos and how to make them. Join Michael Parker from Access Ingenuity to learn about creating accessible videos, including captions, audio descriptions, and descriptive text transcripts. Learning Outcomes: Learn the main elements of an accessible video to comply with WCAG 2.1 Guidelines. Learn how to edit captions on YouTube. Learn how to design videos so that they meet audio description requirements. Learn the basics of creating descriptive text transcripts. | Meeting ID: 891 2139 8335 | Passcode: 616098 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,89121398335#,,,,*616098# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89121398335?pwd=bENxNldHa2RqaDFZdmVCakhESDQrUT09
12) Eye Drop Webinar | Accessible Pharmacy
June 22nd 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | This webinar will have a live ASL interpreter, and closed captioning. If you are unable to attend, still be sure to register to receive access to the webinar audio and video via email afterwards. Please join us as we discuss tips and techniques for using eye drops as well as trends in eye drop refill legislation. Speakers will include experts from The Chicago Lighthouse and Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind. Questions? Please contact info@accessiblepharmacy.com 📧️. To read about the speakers and to register, click the link below:
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/eye-drop-webinar/
13) Easy Portable Reading — The OmniReader | Access Ingenuity
June 19th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | The omniReader is the definition of easy by allowing you to read printed text by pressing a single button. You can follow the magnified text in high-contrast colors on the built-in screen or listen as the omniReader reads text aloud. You can also use the screen to instantly magnify objects and text and display them in high-contrast colors to see them more clearly. Thanks to its lightweight design, built-in handle, and long battery life, you can pick it up and use it wherever you want - at home, at the office, and even on the go. Join Ian Ramos from Access Ingenuity and Joseph McDaniel from Vispero as they explain the critical assistive role this machine plays to the visually impaired. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: Features walkthrough of the omniReader. Explanation of the primary and secondary assistive benefits. How the omniReader can be an effective reading tool. | Meeting ID: 832 7410 0965 | Passcode: 575948 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83274100965#,,,,*575948# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83274100965?pwd=VE5BekE2RUVZaldBVkZFTXQ0Z3pRUT09
14) Accessible Book Apps | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
July 9th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Accessibility can mean smartphone, computer, e-reader, or smart device. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
15) NaviLens and Apple air Tags | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
August 13th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Labeling and tracking just got a whole lot easier! Learn how to use these exciting new products. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
16) Pixel Phone | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
September 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Has Android bridged the gap with Apple with this remarkable new device? All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
17) iOS 16 Review And Editing Voice Memos | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
October 1st 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Every year we look for accessibility improvements in our i-devices. See what is new in this latest version of the Apple operating system. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
18) AT Gifts for the Holidays | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Our annual look at gadgets and gizmos that will make your holiday season a successful one. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
19) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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 New Humanware Braillenote Touch Plus 32 in Retail Box
Listing Date: 5/26/2022 | Price: $2,875.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: I have a new Humanware Braillenote Touch Plus 32 with all its accessories still in its retail box I can sell for about half price of retail. So asking about $2,875 USD or best offer. Of course, since it is new, everything is perfect. :) Text me. | Contact: Jay via email at: JS5lio021@gmail.com 📧️ or by phone / text at: (816) 659-0044 📱️. |
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: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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
➜ BlindShell USA Joins BlindMiceMegaMall.com
Visit the new BlindShell USA store at BlindShell.BlindMiceMegaMall.com. BlindShell Classic 2 - The perfect cell phone for the visually impaired. New, updated design, improved tactile keypad, larger screen for easier reading, and enhanced voice control functionality make the BlindShell Classic 2 simpler to use. You won't believe all the things the BlindShell Classic 2 can do for you! Read about the new BlindShell Classic 2 cell phone and all it's fantastic accessories at:
http://BlindShell.BlindMiceMegaMall.com
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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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
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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Start Your Coding Journey Today with APH's Road to Code!
Want to learn more about coding but don't know where to start? Look no further! APH's Road to Code provides a roadmap for coding progression through all our fun and engaging coding products.
https://bit.ly/3HueRfI
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:
(1) Our new Evo 12 is here; stereo speakers, impressive sound for a tiny unit; stereo recording, both alone or w/Internet/FM radio, edit mp3 files on the player; $289, $299 w/leather case. (2) Talking 3 item medical bundle: convention special through 07/31, $120, $140 w/new leather case. (3) Our new leather "Hermione" bottomless bag; two lined interior compartments; big enough for a Mantis to fit perfectly, $65. (4) $25 leather waist pack, 17 by 6 by 3.5 inches; has 15 inch cane holder. Converted gun case. Not quite as deep as I would like, bought 50 of them, my mistake, your gain. For additional information, contact Barry Scheur at (617) 969-7500 📱️ / bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️ or Kae at (781) 286-1696 📱️ / guidelightdogs@gmail.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, affordable, 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
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: Dolphin Computer Access
➜ Learn SuperNova 10 Minutes at a Time — Sign Up for the SuperNova Everyday Essentials Training Series
Join Mrianda McPherson, professor, AT Trainer and SuperNova user as she delivers a series of practical 10-20 minute training webinars that will help trainers, assessors and users build proficiency using SuperNova to complete a variety of common computing tasks for work and for home. Participate live every Tuesday 9am PT - 11am CT - 12pm ET or watch the recordings at your leisure:
https://info.yourdolphin.com/en-us/supernova-everyday-essentials
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://yourdolphin.com/ 🌐
Sales: https://yourdolphin.com/contact
Support: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/support
Locate a Dolphin Dealer: https://yourdolphin.com/contact/dealer/locate
About: Dolphin designs and builds software that empowers people who are blind or partially sighted to read, work and communicate.
We are committed to creating assistive technology that makes workplaces, classrooms and the home accessible and usable for people with visual impairments.
Dolphin assistive technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of vision impairments. This includes screen readers for people who are blind, magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
Dolphin also develops technology to assist a neurodiverse range of readers. Accessible reading technology from Dolphin is used by book lovers and students with dyslexia, ADHD and autism, in addition to other print impairments. It provides a way to access books from accessible libraries around the world.
Dolphin Products
Dolphin Computer Access designs and develops software that enables users to read and access information at home, at work and throughout their education.
Dolphin assistive technology products include: SuperNova | GuideConnect | EasyReader | EasyConverter Express | Publisher | ScreenReader.
Each Dolphin product empowers users with visual impairments to use computers independently, in ways that suit their sight and experience with technology.
Sponsor: Clusiv
Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022
Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐
About: We are Clusiv. We are the world's first e-learning platform built for and by blind and partially sighted people. We are a resource to vocational rehabilitation organizations. We are a training platform for individuals with visual impairments who have faced barriers to access and equity in the modern workforce. We are engineering the future of work for accessibility. Learn more by selecting the user path that best describes you:
➜ Discover. I want to learn more about Clusiv.
➜ Potential Student. I want to train with Clusiv.
➜ VR Agency / Counselor. I want to help the people I serve with Clusiv.
➜ Inclusive Employer. I want to hire Clusiv graduates.
Your Name Here
0 of 14 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 14 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.
There are 0 of 14 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, May 26, 2022 - Volume 860
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.
Subscribers: 7,250 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email. 107 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: New Accessible Power Banks, Blindshell 2, And More Hot Tech, Available Now From The A. T. Guys
A. T. Guys has the hottest tech toys and tools for your Summer. Whether headed to convention, going on a picnic or lounging in your yard, our accessible gadgets are the perfect companion.
Introducing our next generation accessible power banks, designed to charge modern cell phones or just about any other mobile accessory. Check the charge of the battery by just pressing a button, and counting the beeps or vibrations, from 0 to 4.
The BlindShell 2 keeps getting better, with more features like a podcast player, pedometer, and games. It's the talking phone with tactile buttons, a headphone jack, and loud speaker.
Pair your phone with our loud Bluetooth speakers, or check out our line up of Shokz bone conduction headsets. Don't forget our travel chargers, USBC hubs, WayTags, keyboards, wireless earbuds, & more.
Use coupon tidbits to get free shipping on orders of $99 or more thru June 5th 2022! Don't delay, shop today. Visit https://www.atguys.com/tidbits today or call (269) 216-4798 📱️. Free shipping valid for U.S. customers.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) 7 Common Mistakes That Are Damaging Your Smartphone (19.8% of all clicks.)
Everyone does it. We're all human, after all. But, if you avoid these mistakes, your smartphone is guaranteed to last longer:
https://www.makeuseof.com/common-mistakes-damaging-smartphone/
B.) Human-Narrated Audiobooks (Beta) Are Here (8.2% of all clicks.)
Bookshare announced that they are adding over 5,000 audiobooks to its library for members to download. Previously, Bookshare's offerings were text-only, which members used text-to-speech software to access:
https://www.bookshare.org/cms/campaign/summer
C.) Apple Previews Innovative Accessibility Features (5.5% of all clicks.)
Using advancements across hardware, software, and machine learning, people who are blind or low vision can use their iPhone and iPad to navigate the last few feet to their destination with Door Detection; users with physical and motor disabilities who may rely on assistive features like Voice Control and Switch Control can fully control Apple Watch from their iPhone with Apple Watch Mirroring; and the Deaf and hard of hearing community can follow Live Captions on iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Apple is also expanding support for its industry-leading screen reader VoiceOver with over 20 new languages and locales. These features will be available later this year with software updates across Apple platforms:
https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2022/05/apple-previews-innovative-accessibility-features/
D.) #CSUNATC22 Audio: Hable Is The New Tactile Assistant For Your Smartphone (4.1% of all clicks.)
Braille Screen Input, or BSI, is a great choice for those who like that approach on a touch sensitive glass screen. But there is now more than one way to input a cord these days and Freek van Welsenis, Co-Founder of Hable, offers to J.J. another alternative for smartphone navigation. The lightweight Hable is a Bluetooth enabled input device for Android and iOS that has been sweeping its way across the EU. And now it sets its sights on a U.S. launch:
https://www.blindbargains.com/bargains.php?m=22489
E.) A Comprehensive Overview Of Windows 11 22H2, The OS's First Big Yearly Update (3.5% of all clicks.)
A look at the most significant features coming to the OS later this year:
https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2022/05/windows-11s-first-yearly-update-is-almost-done-heres-what-is-and-isnt-part-of-it/
2) Top Tech Tidbits Introduces New Click-To-Vote Quick Poll Feature
I'd like to open this up by offering our sincerest thanks to all Top Tech Tidbits Premium Subscribers, for these are Premium Subscriber dollars at work. Learn more about this exciting new feature below, and you may want to, as we introduce our very first Top Tech Tidbits Click-To-Vote Quick Poll within this issue:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/78.html
3) Loud Noise Heard Over A Pair Of AirPods Damages A Boy's Eardrum
It appears that an Amber Alert heard through a pair of AirPods has caused permanent hearing loss and damage:
https://www.phonearena.com/news/wearing-air-pods-damages-boys-eardrum_id140227
4) How To Turn Off AMBER And Other Emergency Alerts On Android And iOS
The AMBER Alert system is an excellent tool for finding and recovering children abducted in your area. According to the U.S. government, this system has helped recover 1,029 children throughout all participating regions — 87 through Wireless Emergency Alerts alone:
https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/how-to-turn-off-amber-alerts/
5) 5 Tips For Preventing Hearing Loss Caused By Headphones
Thanks to remote work and school, and ever-increasing amounts of smartphone and tablet use, we spend a lot of time wearing headphones. Let us help you protect your ears with five tips to reduce or eliminate the long-term hearing damage these devices can cause:
https://www.zdnet.com/article/how-to-prevent-hearing-loss-caused-by-headphones/
6) Top Tech Tidbits Click-To-Vote Quick Poll 860
Having read that an Amber Alert heard through a pair of AirPods has caused permanent hearing loss and damage, which of the following best describes how you will use ear buds going forward? | Remember, there is no form. Each click represents a single vote, so please be sure to read all of the options before you click.
A) This information will not change how I use ear buds. | Click-To-Vote Link: https://bit.ly/ttt-poll860-a
B) I plan to turn off AMBER Alerts. | Click-To-Vote Link: https://bit.ly/ttt-poll860-b
C) I plan to do more research. | Click-To-Vote Link: https://bit.ly/ttt-poll860-c
D) I do not plan to use ear buds again. | Click-To-Vote Link: https://bit.ly/ttt-poll860-d
7) JAWS Power Tip: Adjusting Settings for Specific Web Pages
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/77.html
8) ARIA Authoring Practices Guide
The standards and guidance for accessible rich internet applications (ARIA) has been republished in a more usable format. This will make it easier for developers to refer to ARIA best practices:
https://www.w3.org/WAI/ARIA/apg/
9) Online Courses For People With Disabilities, By People With Disabilities
Fable Pathways is a new online education program. It is free. Right now, it consists of 2 courses, but here is hoping that more will be added in the future:
https://fablepathways.com/
10) Apple Previews Innovative Accessibility Features Combining The Power Of Hardware, Software, And Machine Learning
We acknowledge that we covered most of these announcements last week from Apple, but we missed some of the things added to Apple Maps. Apple Maps features a new guide from the National Park Foundation, Park Access for All, to help users discover accessible features, programs, and services to explore in parks across the US. Guides from Gallaudet University — the world's premier university for Deaf, hard of hearing, and Deafblind students — feature businesses and organizations that value, embrace, and prioritize the Deaf community and signed languages:
https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2022/05/apple-previews-innovative-accessibility-features/
11) Braille Might Not Be What You Thought In Android | From The Mosen At Large Podcast Episode 178 Transcript |
Some Braille users may be locked out of the new TalkBack Braille support, The ReVision Fitness app, and farewell to the iPod Touch:
https://mosen.org/malp0178transcript/
12) Windows 11 Now Available For All Compatible Devices According To Microsoft
The release version of Microsoft's Windows 11 operating system is now available for all compatible devices according to Microsoft. The designation for broad deployment is an important milestone, as it is used by organizations to determine the readiness of the operating system for broader deployment on devices:
https://www.ghacks.net/2022/05/19/windows-11-now-available-for-all-compatible-devices-according-to-microsoft/
13) AFB AccessWorld April 2022
Editor's Page: Revisiting Pokemon Go and Third Party Accessibility | Return to Almost Normal, What's New from the CSUN Assistive Technology Conference | Braille and Tactile Graphics at CSUN 2022 | Back to the Future with the BlindShell Classic 2:
https://www.afb.org/aw/23/4
14) Voting is Now Open for the 2022 Inductees Into the AppleVis iOS App Hall of Fame
https://www.applevis.com/newsletter/voting-now-open-2022-inductees-applevis-ios-app-hall-fame
15) Sonos Introducing Its Own Voice-Activated Digital Assistant On June 1st 2022
The new service, called Sonos Voice Control, is focused on controlling media content and the company's devices, rather than serving up information in the style of Amazon's Alexa or Apple's Siri. Still, it marks an ambitious expansion for a company best known for sound bars and other audio accessories:
https://coolblindtech.com/sonos-introducing-its-own-voice-activated-digital-assistant-on-june-1/
16) List of all Windows 10 Keyboard Shortcuts: The Ultimate Guide
Windows 10 includes a slew of keyboard shortcuts to make your experience easier around the desktop, and here are all of them:
https://www.windowscentral.com/best-windows-10-keyboard-shortcuts
17) NVDA 2022.1 Released
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/nvda-2022-1/
18) Recognizing 2022 Global Accessibility Awareness Day | Technology Takeaways From Meta
Here Meta highlights recent advances they have made to make their products more inclusive:
https://about.fb.com/news/2022/05/recognizing-global-accessibility-awareness-day/
19) Apple's Splintered Accessibility | Why I use Android and Windows | Devin Prater
Apple, for now, is the leader in mobile accessibility. iOS is a really nice system to use, if you like walled gardens and the occasional persistent bug or two. I'd say about 90% of all blind people that have a phone, own an iPhone. However, Apple doesn't just want you on their phone. They have an entire ecosystem ready to go, to make having an iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods even more worth it. Since the iPhone was so nice, people started investing in Mac computers, starting after the release of Tiger and Leopard. Things really picked up around 2010 or so:
https://medium.com/@r.d.t.prater/apples-splintered-accessibility-f0d95b100c42
20) Google Is Making Android Better For The Visually Impaired
Google is bringing enhanced support for braille in Android with the next major update coming this fall. The company announced this on Global Accessibility Awareness Day. The move comes after a similar announcement by Apple earlier in the week:
https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/google-android-13-accessibility-braille-improvement/
21) Using Audio Hijack 4 with VoiceOver
We know that many users with vision impairments work (and play) with audio extensively. To help facilitate that, we strive to make Audio Hijack fully accessible to those using VoiceOver on their Macs. While you should be able to pick up the app and get started with ease, the following article may help fill in any gaps:
https://rogueamoeba.com/support/knowledgebase/?showArticle=VoiceOver-AH4
22) Blindness Charity Launches New Voice-Based Service For Smart Speakers
The National Council for the Blind of Ireland has launched a voice-based platform for Google and Amazon smart speakers that provides information on sight loss, and access to support and technology services:
https://www.irishtimes.com/business/technology/blindness-charity-launches-new-voice-based-service-for-smart-speakers-1.4882842
23) Gmail Adds Image Alt-Text To Help The Visually Impaired
Google is announcing a handful of new accessibility-oriented features, including the ability to add alt-text to images sent using Gmail. The features come as part of Global Accessibility Awareness Day:
https://www.androidheadlines.com/2022/05/gmail-adds-image-alt-text-to-help-the-visually-impaired.html
24) 10 Things Blocking Your Wi-Fi Signal at Home
There are a surprising number of things in your home — from the type of material your walls are made of to the kind of things you decorate your home with — that can degrade your Wi-Fi signal:
https://www.howtogeek.com/802892/things-blocking-your-wi-fi-signal-at-home/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Partner Innovation Buildfor2030: Empowering An Inclusive And Accessible World
Microsoft and its partners have announced Microsoft #BuildFor2030 and initiative designed to support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The partner projects include BAWA Cane, CityMaaS.io: Localized accessibility information, and the Johns Hopkins Balance - Mental Health Program:
https://partnerinnovation.microsoft.com/initiatives/buildfor2030-empowering-an-inclusive-and-accessible-world/
2) The Americans with Disabilities Act and the Use of Software, Algorithms, and Artificial Intelligence to Assess Job Applicants and Employees
The Justice Department's Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has issued guidance on how companies can safely use algorithm-based tools in the hiring process without risking the systematic exclusion of people with disabilities:
https://www.eeoc.gov/laws/guidance/americans-disabilities-act-and-use-software-algorithms-and-artificial-intelligence
3) Kim Kardashian Launches Inclusive SKIMS Collection For People With Limited Mobility
Kim Kardashian's shapewear brand SKIMS has released an underwear line for people with disabilities, which combines easy-access closures with a range of sizes and colors to suit different skin tones and body types. The clothing uses hook-and-eye closures to make putting them on and taking them off easier:
https://www.dezeen.com/2022/05/06/skims-adaptive-collection-kim-kardashian-news/
4) Level Access Launches Accessibility Education Platform to Deliver Self-Sufficient Compliance to Businesses
Level Access, has announced the launch of its all-new learning platform, Access Academy. The Access Academy platform serves to help organizations improve accessibility processes without disrupting product roadmaps. Users learn the skills they need, in a non-disruptive manner, to solve their real-world accessibility problems. The integrated training platform includes advanced features like weekly live training sessions, role-based learning paths, and tailored learning:
https://www.levelaccess.com/level-access-news/level-access-launches-accessibility-education-platform-deliver-self-sufficient-compliance-businesses/
5) If Tech Fails to Design for the Most Vulnerable, It Fails Us All | Wired
Building around the so-called typical user is a dangerous mistake:
https://www.wired.com/story/technology-design-marginalized-communities/
6) Channel 4 is an Essential Platform for Disabled People, we Can't Allow it to be Privatised
7) Washington Talking Book & Braille Library In Seattle Takes Home National Award
A local library took home a top honor recently for its "outstanding service to readers with visual, physical or print disabilities:"
https://komonews.com/news/local/washington-talking-book-braille-library-in-seattle-takes-home-national-award
8) Milwaukee Public Museum Hosts 20th Annual Braille Games (Video)
On May 19th 2022 blind and visually-impaired children were able to take part in the 20th Annual "Braille Games" at the Milwaukee Public Museum. This year, they went on an adventure around the globe as they learn about cultures from Asia, India, Africa and Central America. It's an important opportunity for blind children to use braille in a fun and interactive way, all while being mentored by blind adults who are self-sufficient and independent:
https://www.cbs58.com/news/milwaukee-public-museum-hosts-20th-annual-braille-games
9) "No Child Left Behind" Except for More Than 90% of Blind Children?
Teaching inspires a revolutionary innovation, the BrailleDoodle, to spread Braille Literacy and Touchable Art worldwide:
https://tech.einnews.com/pr_news/573168373/no-child-left-behind-except-for-more-than-90-of-blind-children
10) Global Accessibility Awareness Day: Enforcing the 'For All' in 'Smarter Technology For All'
The broad nature of the accessibility and inclusivity space is often met with varying perspectives. In my 25-year tenure at Lenovo, I've witnessed tremendous growth in this space. At its core, my role asks me to uncover the limitless potential of technology. As a company that strives to create Smarter Technology For All, it is important that we consistently work to develop innovative ways to ensure our devices and solutions meet the needs of everyone — regardless of ability:
https://news.lenovo.com/gaad-enforcing-the-for-all-in-smarter-technology-for-all/
11) How AI Is Improving The Web For The Visually Impaired
There are almost 350 million people worldwide with blindness or some other form of visual impairment who need to use the internet and mobile apps just like anyone else. Yet, they can only do so if websites and mobile apps are built with accessibility in mind — and not as an afterthought:
https://venturebeat.com/2022/05/19/how-ai-is-improving-the-web-for-the-visually-impaired/
12) The Benefits Of Accessible Mobile Games For The Blind And Visually Impaired Community
For most people, a lifetime of gaming begins only days after we are born. It starts simply with a round of peekaboo with our mother. As we gain the ability to speak, we play I Spy and 20 questions. On vacations to the beach, we graduate to epic sessions of Monopoly, Stratego, Risk!, and Battleship. If we were lucky, we would get an opportunity to play card games with the adults. For the rest of the summer, we would do our best to teach our friends the various games of poker:
https://www.pocketgamer.com/features/blind-visually-impaired-gaming-benefits/
13) Almost One Billion Children And Adults With Disabilities And Older Persons In Need Of Assistive Technology Denied Access, According To New Report
A new report published last week by WHO and UNICEF reveals that more than 2.5 billion people need one or more assistive products, such as wheelchairs, hearing aids, or apps that support communication and cognition. Yet nearly one billion of them are denied access, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where access can be as low as 3% of the need for these life-changing products:
https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2022/05/global-report-assistive-technology.html
14) Accessibility Gains From the Pandemic Shouldn't Be Forgotten, Advocates Say
What's happening: As companies roll out return-to-office plans, accessibility advocates say it's important to remember the needs of employees with disabilities. Why it matters: The COVID-19 pandemic brought accommodations that people in the disability community have requested for years, like remote work and captioned video calls. Now, experts say it's important to maintain a focus on accessibility to ensure all employees are supported:
https://www.cnet.com/tech/accessibility-gains-from-the-pandemic-shouldnt-be-forgotten-advocates-say/#ftag=CADf328eec
15) A Beginner's Guide to Website Accessibility
We all have to start somewhere. This article provides some great first steps:
https://www.fool.com/the-ascent/small-business/construction-management/articles/website-accessibility/
16) University of Wisconsin Researcher Develops OTC Hearing Aid
A new type of hearing aid being developed by a University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee engineer could make the devices much more accessible to the millions of people who need them. An article detailing the research appears on the University's website:
https://hearingreview.com/inside-hearing/research/university-wisconsin-researcher-develops-otc-hearing-aid
➜ Surveys
1) APH Surveys Page
Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther Episode 51: Outdoor Gear for Women and Community Supported Fisheries
May 15th 2022 | On AMI Audio's podcast Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther we explore 12 gear suggestions of special interest to vision impaired and blind women. Our bucket list segment comes from British Columbia and the founder of one of Canada's first ever community supported fisheries. Lawrence has tips for harvesting your own fish, and reflects on what we can learn from First Nations fishers about celebrating the days catch, as well as being aware of fish consumption advisories:
https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/episode-51-outdoor-gear-for-women-and-community/id1530444764?i=1000561472769
2) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 76, Android 13 Beta 2 In-Depth Look And GAAD Global Accessibility Awareness Day
May 21st 2022 | In this episode we take a detailed look at the features in Android 13 Beta 2. Then we talk about announcements of Google on Global Accessibility Awareness Day. Our podcast can be found on all popular podcast platforms and on YouTube at:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqrHRttBzafqq60Vfs_Sy7An
3) Mosen At Large Episode 179: Apple's Forthcoming Accessibility Features, Groundhog Day At Google Accessibility Support, And Accessible Learning From Fable Pathways
4) Eyes on Success 2221 Offerings from the National Braille Press
May 25th 2022 | No matter what your age, interests, or career, chances are that the National Braille Press offers something for you. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Kesel Wilson, editorial director at the NBP, about books the NBP produces in braille and other formats for children, general interest, professionals, and those looking for technical manuals:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202221.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Tips and Tricks for a More Enjoyable OCR Experience | Free Training Webinars by Vispero
May 26th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Summary: If you currently own an OCR (optical character recognition) product or are in the market for one, this session is for you. Join Mike and Michelle on Thursday, May 26, at noon Eastern Time as they share helpful tips from experienced users and show them in action with our scanning products. Hear and see how material management and specific features can contribute to a more accurate, enjoyable OCR experience. Objectives: 1. Identifying when a combo (screen/scanner) product vs. OCR is preferable. 2. Managing print materials for accurate scanning. 3. Using product features for better results. Vispero Presenters: Mike Wood and Michelle Williams. Prize Giveaway: We will choose one random winner to receive a $500 voucher towards the product of their choice from Freedom Scientific, Optelec, or Enhanced Vision! ACVREP credits will be awarded to those that attend the live webinar. Register for Tips and Tricks for a More Enjoyable OCR Experience:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_vL1JSjtgQ5iOPU7bgg52oA
2) Reading and Typing Anywhere | From IRIE-AT: SuperNova 10-Minute Trainings
May 31st 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Join Miranda McPherson, AT Trainer, Professor and SuperNova user each week as she delivers practical, 10-minute training webinars that will help you build core computing skills using SuperNova Magnifier, Speech and Screen Reader:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_X6Kn2OGWQUusnluTr5xhgw?_x_zm_rtaid=fLk2aOXRT722PTe9sYE0EA.1652816435272.bc800e8cf5b23a93259e41d00cbf2a03&_x_zm_rhtaid=637
3) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Beginners | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 4th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) 1:00 - 2:15 PM ET. If you're new to using Voiceover on the iPhone or if you're still working toward confidence, this discussion group is for you. We'll spend some time going over the theory of how screen readers work, gestures everyone needs to know, and some strategies for getting help. Then, we'll open it up for questions and networking. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
4) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Users: Beyond the Basics | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 4th 2022 | 11:30AM PT, 12:30AM, 1:30PM CT, 2:30PM ET, 6:30PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) from 2:30 - 4:00 PM ET. Talk about customizing gestures and settings, exploring new apps, choosing accessories, dealing with bugs, and whatever else comes to mind. This is a space for any and all Voiceover topics that go beyond the basics of using common gestures and built-in apps. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
5) The Web is Inherently Accessible | TPGi
June 8th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Talk aimed at front-end developers or anyone using the basics of HTML to create content for the web. Join TPGi's Rachele DiTullio, Senior Accessibility Engineer, as Rachele explains how the web is accessible by default and that it's design choices that make the web inaccessible. The web is accessible by default; it is our design decisions that stop it being accessible. We need to develop accessible pages from the bottom up, starting with semantic HTML. Many designers and developers have a poor grasp of what native elements to use and what functionality they provide. Every semantic mistake introduces accessibility issues into your code. In this session, you will learn: When to use a link or a button. Why to use headings. How to create form fields. When to use tables. How to create accessible images, font icons and emojis. Register today!
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-the-web-is-inherently-accessible/
6) Using iOS Shortcuts | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 9th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Thursday June 9, 2:00 - 3:30 PM Eastern. Shortcuts can be used to automate tasks and save time. Join us to explore examples of effective shortcuts and learn to create your own. This event will take place in person and online. Email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to RSVP in person, or register to participate online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZElc-itrjgvHNDogsDg6wMe47pOluSIcXYI?_x_zm_rtaid=O_T4jl2gQk-eJ1vIXaeqDw.1648421599270.e098cddc0d3e6ab8b653afe6c5833f53&_x_zm_rhtaid=371
7) Gadgets and Apps for Safe Navigation | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
June 11th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. There are many apps and devices that can aid a visually impaired traveler through the unknown. Avoid low-hanging obstacles and other obstructions. Which ones can you afford and which ones offer the best protection?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
8) Tactile Drawing from Still Life | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 11th 2022 | 10:30 AM PT, 11:30 AM MT, 12:30 PM CT, 1:30 PM ET, 5:30 PM GMT | Saturday June 11th 2022 from 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM Eastern In this hands-on workshop, we'll explore still life scenes of 3D objects and then create accessible tactile drawings. A variety of tactile media will be offered. This hands-on event will take place in person. Please email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to RSVP.
9) Intro to Google Translate | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 15th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Wednesday June 15th 2022 from 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM Eastern. Take a deep dive into this powerful cross-platform tool for translation. We'll explore how to translate from speech, text, handwriting and the camera; how to build a list of phrases you use often; and what you need to know about conversational and continuous translation. This event will take place in person and online. Email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to attend in person, or register to participate online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZElc-itrjgvHNDogsDg6wMe47pOluSIcXYI?_x_zm_rtaid=5aP3v6sNTtuCFyUfVDXxaQ.1648429186785.e6167c6b9ddb64d3c5052fc57b1d89aa&_x_zm_rhtaid=506
10) 2022 Braille Literacy Canada Symposium
June 17th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Braille Literacy Canada (BLC) will be holding its second annual virtual braille symposium. This event will be of interest to braille readers, educators, transcribers, parents, producers and anyone else with a passion for braille literacy! The schedule of events is as follows: 1:00pm EST: Revitalising Braille through a Grass Roots Community (Matthew Horspool and Dave Williams, Braillists Foundation) 2:00pm EST: Hadley's Braille for Everyday Use (Douglas Walker and Dr. Kim Walker, Hadley) 3:00pm EST: What is the science of reading, and what does it teach us about braille contractions? (Dr. Robert Englebretson, Rice University) 4:00pm EST: Walking Through Paths to Literacy For All Things Braille (Kate Borg, Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired). Each presentation will be approximately 30 minutes long, followed by a 15 minute question-and-answer period, and then a 15 minute intermission. Register at:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0rcuqgqTgoHNE6DUAxovR0glJTq4v53gFQ
11) Eye Drop Webinar | Accessible Pharmacy
June 22nd 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | This webinar will have a live ASL interpreter, and closed captioning. If you are unable to attend, still be sure to register to receive access to the webinar audio and video via email afterwards. Please join us as we discuss tips and techniques for using eye drops as well as trends in eye drop refill legislation. Speakers will include experts from The Chicago Lighthouse and Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind. Questions? Please contact info@accessiblepharmacy.com 📧️. To read about the speakers and to register, click the link below:
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/eye-drop-webinar/
12) Accessible Book Apps | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
July 9th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Accessibility can mean smartphone, computer, e-reader, or smart device. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
13) NaviLens and Apple air Tags | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
August 13th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Labeling and tracking just got a whole lot easier! Learn how to use these exciting new products. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
14) Pixel Phone | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
September 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Has Android bridged the gap with Apple with this remarkable new device? All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
15) iOS 16 Review And Editing Voice Memos | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
October 1st 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Every year we look for accessibility improvements in our i-devices. See what is new in this latest version of the Apple operating system. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
16) AT Gifts for the Holidays | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Our annual look at gadgets and gizmos that will make your holiday season a successful one. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
17) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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 New Humanware Braillenote Touch Plus 32 in Retail Box
Listing Date: 5/26/2022 | Price: $2,875.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: I have a new Humanware Braillenote Touch Plus 32 with all its accessories still in its retail box I can sell for about half price of retail. So asking about $2,875 USD or best offer. Of course, since it is new, everything is perfect. :) Text me. | Contact: Jay via email at: JS5lio021@gmail.com 📧️ or by phone / text at: (816) 659-0044 📱️. |
2) FOR SALE: One Orcam Read
Listing Date: 5/5/2022 | Price: $1,100.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Barely 6 months old. Never used. For visually impaired. Version 9. Sells for $1,800. | Contact: Michael via Email at: miketmarano@icloud.com 📧️ or by phone at:(413) 786-1724 📱️. |
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: HIMS, Inc.
➜ Order Now! Get The Most Powerful Android Notetaker Available, the BrailleSense 6 From HIMS. It's Simply The Best.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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
The DannyBoy Portable Stand holds your Smart Phone stationary so it's camera can view items and documents clearly providing stability for excellent recognition & clarity. Take perfect pictures and scan images. Read documents quickly and easily. Great for anyone with motor disabilities, too! Made with the Blind In Mind! Lightweight & Portable. Ready To Use or Collapses In Seconds. Read All About the DannyBoy Portable Stand at DannyBoy.com in BlindMiceMegaMall.com at:
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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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
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 Android TM 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
➜ 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/
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Start Your Coding Journey Today with APH's Road to Code!
Want to learn more about coding but don't know where to start? Look no further! APH's Road to Code provides a roadmap for coding progression through all our fun and engaging coding products.
https://bit.ly/3HueRfI
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:
(1) Our new Evo 12 is here; stereo speakers, impressive sound for a tiny unit; stereo recording, both alone or w/Internet/FM radio, edit mp3 files on the player; $289, $299 w/leather case. (2) Talking 3 item medical bundle: convention special through 07/31, $120, $140 w/new leather case. (3) Our new leather "Hermione" bottomless bag; two lined interior compartments; big enough for a Mantis to fit perfectly, $65. (4) $25 leather waist pack, 17 by 6 by 3.5 inches; has 15 inch cane holder. Converted gun case. Not quite as deep as I would like, bought 50 of them, my mistake, your gain. For additional information, contact Barry Scheur at (617) 969-7500 📱️ / bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️ or Kae at (781) 286-1696 📱️ / guidelightdogs@gmail.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, affordable, 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
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: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
Your Name Here
0 of 12 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 0 of 12 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, May 19, 2022 - Volume 859
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.
Subscribers: 7,240 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email. 104 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
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.) JAWS Power Tip: Lock Your Keyboard With JAWS (10.1% of all clicks.)
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/76.html
B.) Free Guide for Blind iPhone Users (7.5% of all clicks.)
After two years, Michael Feir has released Personal Power: Getting the Most From iOS as a Totally Blind User. This second edition of his guide is available free to all in several formats. Get the guide at:
http://michaelfeir.blogspot.com/2022/04/the-second-edition-of-personal-power.html?m=1
C.) Freedom Scientific May 2022 Training Events (5.4% of all clicks.)
The Freedom Scientific training team offers ongoing opportunities for you to advance your skills:
https://blog.freedomscientific.com/join-us-for-our-may-2022-training-events/
D.) What are Hearables? (4.1% of all clicks.)
Odds are, you've heard of wearables — think fitness trackers, smart clothing, smartwatches, and display glasses. But what about hearables? We have all the info on what they are, who should use them, how they can help you, and where you can get them:
https://www.reviewgeek.com/114421/what-are-hearables/
E.) Microsoft Adaptive Accessories (3.9% of all clicks.)
Microsoft has announced new adaptive accessories, including a mouse, buttons, and a hub. They will be available this Fall:
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/store/b/microsoft-adaptive-accessories
2) Happy 11th Annual Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) From Top Tech Tidbits
Please join all of us here at Tidbits in celebrating 11th Annual Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) today. The purpose of GAAD is to get everyone talking, thinking and learning about digital access and inclusion, and the more than one billion people with disabilities / impairments:
Website: https://accessibility.day/
Events: https://accessibility.day/events/
3) Reflections for Global #Accessibility Awareness Day #GAAD | Jonathan Mosen
Our past success wasn't inevitable, our future success is not guaranteed:
https://mosen.org/gaad2022/
4) Apple Previews Innovative Accessibility Features
Using advancements across hardware, software, and machine learning, people who are blind or low vision can use their iPhone and iPad to navigate the last few feet to their destination with Door Detection; users with physical and motor disabilities who may rely on assistive features like Voice Control and Switch Control can fully control Apple Watch from their iPhone with Apple Watch Mirroring; and the Deaf and hard of hearing community can follow Live Captions on iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Apple is also expanding support for its industry-leading screen reader VoiceOver with over 20 new languages and locales. These features will be available later this year with software updates across Apple platforms:
https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2022/05/apple-previews-innovative-accessibility-features/
5) Breaking: Android 13 will Include Built-in Braille Support, Supplanting BrailleBack
Android 13 will at long last include built-in braille support without the need to download a separate app. The feature was announced by Google's Nimer Jaber during a session at this year's IO conference:
https://www.blindbargains.com/bargains.php?m=22488
6) Free Educational Game App to Explore Sonification
Sonification is a technology that represents data and information in non-speech sound. This emerging technology can provide additional or alternative access to information. Learn how this works in 'CosmoBally on Sonoplanet', the new, educational game app by Sonokids Australia. Can you HEAR what shape it is? Free, for iOS and Android, suitable for young and old. By completing the anonymous 2 minutes' user survey (optional) your feedback will support ongoing work on accessible sonification:
https://www.sonoplanet.com
7) Human-Narrated Audiobooks (Beta) Are Here
Bookshare announced that they are adding over 5,000 audiobooks to its library for members to download. Previously, Bookshare's offerings were text-only, which members used text-to-speech software to access:
https://www.bookshare.org/cms/campaign/summer
8) Deafblind Communities May Be Creating a New Language of Touch
Tactile sign may be evolving:
https://www.newyorker.com/culture/annals-of-inquiry/deafblind-communities-may-be-creating-a-new-language-of-touch
9) NV Access In-Process for May 18th 2022
We've got some helpful info for NVDA users in or from Ukraine this week. Plus a workaround for an issue affecting some Dell users. But first, we are getting ever closer to NVDA 2022.1:
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-18th-may-2022/
10) 4 Common Myths About Braille and Web Accessibility
Support for electronic braille devices has grown over the past decade, but braille is often ignored in discussions of web accessibility. In this article, we'll discuss four common misconceptions about braille users and provide some quick tips for considering people with vision disabilities when designing your content:
https://www.boia.org/blog/4-common-myths-about-braille-and-web-accessibility
11) Video Playlist From Microsoft Ability Summit 2022
Here you will find all recorded sessions from the Microsoft Ability Summit, hosted virtually on May 10th 2022:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLtSVUgxIo6Ko_SB8H9JUaCZMsxiCNu-am
12) Dolphin Upcoming Webinars List
https://yourdolphin.com/en-gb/webinars?filterBy=upcoming&sortBy=startTime&sortDescending=false
13) Microsoft Adding Accessibility Features To Windows 11
Last year, Microsoft announced a commitment to closing the disability divide and to work toward improving educational employment opportunities for people with disabilities around the world. The Windows 11 launch, last fall, included a whole host of accessibility improvements, such as appealing sound schemes, closed caption customizations, and a more responsive and flexible experience for working with assistive technologies and accessibility. Since its launch, Microsoft is adding additional features, such as system-wide live captions and more powerful voice access tools:
https://coolblindtech.com/microsoft-adding-accessibility-features-to-windows-11/
14) Toggle Full Screen in a Microsoft Teams Meeting
When you join a Microsoft Teams meeting, the meeting usually opens in a separate window. You can always maximize an application window by pressing Alt + Space, then X, or Windows key + Up Arrow. But you can get rid of the title bar at the top of the Teams meeting window by pressing F11. This gives a little more space for the application. It is actually the same shortcut to activate full screen in a browser window, and other applications like File Explorer:
https://sharons-shortcuts.ie/toggle-full-screen-in-a-microsoft-teams-meeting/
15) New Update for Envision Glasses Version 1.6.0
This new major update brings additions like Smart Guidance and Layout Detection to the reading functions. Videos detailing each topic available here:
https://www.letsenvision.com/blog/new-update-for-envision-glasses-version-1-6-0
16) How Mozilla Thunderbird Is Making a Comeback in 2022
Thunderbird has been around since 2003, but it has stalled in recent years due to dwindling interest from Mozilla and limited funds. However, the project is now making a resurgence, and it might be worth your time to try:
https://www.howtogeek.com/805530/heres-how-mozilla-thunderbird-is-making-a-comeback-in-2022/
17) A Comprehensive Overview Of Windows 11 22H2, The OS's First Big Yearly Update
A look at the most significant features coming to the OS later this year:
https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2022/05/windows-11s-first-yearly-update-is-almost-done-heres-what-is-and-isnt-part-of-it/
18) The Sony Alpha 7 IV Camera Has a Screen Reader Feature for the Vision Impaired
Photography is an inherently visual medium, but that does not mean those without perfect eyesight can't enjoy it. Sony seems to have recognized this and added a screen reading feature to its Alpha 7 IV camera to help the vision-impaired:
https://petapixel.com/2022/05/13/the-sony-alpha-7-iv-has-a-screen-reader-feature-for-the-vision-impaired/
19) 7 Common Mistakes That Are Damaging Your Smartphone
Everyone does it. We're all human, after all. But, if you avoid these mistakes, your smartphone is guaranteed to last longer:
https://www.makeuseof.com/common-mistakes-damaging-smartphone/
20) #CSUNATC22 Audio: Hable Is The New Tactile Assistant For Your Smartphone
Braille Screen Input, or BSI, is a great choice for those who like that approach on a touch sensitive glass screen. But there is now more than one way to input a cord these days andFreek van Welsenis, Co-Founder of Hable, offers to J.J. another alternative for smartphone navigation. The lightweight Hable is a Bluetooth enabled input device for Android and iOS that has been sweeping its way across the EU. And now it sets its sights on a U.S. launch:
https://www.blindbargains.com/bargains.php?m=22489
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Could Neuralink Neuroprosthetic Device Help Tinnitus?
Australian author and academic David Tuffley challenges bold claims that a neuroprosthetic device developed by Elon Musk's Neuralink start-up company could "cure tinnitus" within five years:
https://hearingreview.com/hearing-loss/tinnitus/tinnitus-therapy/could-neuralink-neuroprosthetic-device-help-tinnitus
2) National Braille Press Creates New Technology For Blind Community In 21st Century
A white classic colonial style building on St. Stephen Street in Boston's Fenway district holds some of the most innovative and collaborative work for the blind community:
https://huntnewsnu.com/68722/city-pulse/national-braille-press-creates-new-technology-for-blind-community-in-21st-century/
3) The City Of Winnipeg Launches App For Residents With Mobility Issues To Book Accessible Cab Rides
The City of Winnipeg has launched a service and app that will enable wheelchair users to book rides with accessible vehicles from several taxi and private transportation providers:
https://nationworldnews.com/the-city-of-winnipeg-launches-app-for-residents-with-mobility-issues-to-book-accessible-cab-rides-nation-world-news
4) U.S. Department of Education Announces Intent to Strengthen and Protect Rights for Students with Disabilities by Amending Regulations Implementing Section 504
The Department's Office for Civil Rights will solicit public comments to help decide how best to improve current regulations to assist America's students. As part of the development of the proposed amendments to the Section 504 regulations, the Department is soliciting public input. Interested parties may go to www2.ed.gov/policy/rights/reg/ocr/ to submit comments:
https://www.ed.gov/news/press-releases/us-department-education-announces-intent-strengthen-and-protect-rights-students-disabilities-amending-regulations-implementing-section-504
5) Hadley offers Invaluable Help for Visually Impaired Travelers to Make the Most of Vacation
Many of us are looking forward to traveling again this summer. For the millions of older Americans with visual impairments, however, traveling may seem like more of a challenge, especially if their eye condition is new to them. But with a little preparation and proper resources, those with low vision or blindness can continue to enjoy traveling:
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hadley-offers-invaluable-help-for-visually-impaired-travelers-to-make-the-most-of-vacation-301548793.html
6) Expand Your Definition Of Inclusivity: How Employers Can Support Blind Talent
In today's competitive labor market, many employers are working to expand who and where they recruit from, going as far as to remove location or college degree requirements. And yet, disabled populations, like those who are blind or visually impaired, are still vastly underemployed:
https://www.benefitnews.com/news/expand-your-definition-of-inclusivity-how-employers-can-support-blind-talent
➜ Surveys
1) APH Surveys Page
Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Finding the Funny After Vision Loss | Hadley Presents: A Conversation with the Experts
May 13th 2022 | IT professional and stand-up comedian Todd Blenkhorn talks about his personal journey with vision loss and how his passion for stand-up helped him find and share the humor in daily interactions.
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/finding-funny-after-vision-loss
2) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 75, A Time To Celebrate With Our Readers And Listeners And Thoughts On Google IO 2022
May 14th 2022 | We celebrated our 75th episode with some of our listeners that joined us. We discussed our thoughts on the just occurred Google IO 2022. The playlist of Google with presentations on accessibility can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOU2XLYxmsILw2VmhxUWyd_imCrJef_iz. Our podcast can be found on all popular podcatchers, on Spotify, on smart speakers and on this YouTube playlist:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqpEh6UljW4PFrB7cCrJ7bEg.
3) Mosen At Large Episode 178: Some Braille Users May Be Locked Out Of The New Talkback Braille Support, The Revision Fitness App, And Farewell To The Ipod Touch
4) Eyes on Success 2220 Encore of 2102 Access Technology Reminiscences
May 18th 2022 | 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:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202220.htm
5) Blind Abilites Podcast: QuickByte: Hiding Screen Pages on Your Apple Device and Still Accessing Everything
May 18th 2022 | In this QuickByte demo, previously published in the Tech Abilities episode, Jeff takes us through the process of hiding and unhiding a Screen page on the iPhone. When you have a lot of apps and widgets filling screen pages and want to clean up the experience, you can hide the pages and still be able to access the apps through the Library, the Library search and with the Siri assistant. Just double tap and hold on the page number and then select the page you want to hide or unhide and single finger double tap. And lastly, Tap on Done and there you go!
https://blindabilities.com/?p=7414
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) The National Transition Conversation 2022: APH Transition Hub & Pre ETS Program Field Updates
May 19th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | The National Transition Conversation 2022: APH Transition Hub & Pre ETS Program field updates Lisamaria Martinez, Richard Rueda. ACVREP credits available. Wondering how can APH Transition Hub support and increase the number of families that are directed to your summer residential program? Learn the latest innovations from APH CareerConnect. Join the National Transition Conversation as the APH ConnectCenter unveils the latest features of the Transition Hub project, and shares updates on CareerConnect. Just in time for summer programming across the United States, the National Transition Conversation will provide three mini forums spotlighting some of our partner transition programs and services. The second hour will provide a forum for practitioners, rehabilitation personnel, transition specialists and program administrators to share their own program successes and learn from other programs. Register here:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_A-h3iZRzSCitNrhTdOTrVQ
2) Navigating the Web Today, Tips on Accessing Common Web Page Elements with JAWS | Freedom Scientific
May 19th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Do you find navigating certain web elements challenging? Want to clear the clutter when accessing information? Join us Thursday, May 19, 2022, at noon Eastern Time for a live webinar, "Navigating the Web Today, Tips on Accessing Common Web Page Elements with JAWS." We'll provide an overview of several web page elements you may encounter when surfing the web, and show you how to: Access expandable menus. Navigate modals. Customize websites using Flexible Web so web page content is easier to read. ACVREP credits will be available for those who attend the live webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_ja366UUvQyWzfOSOhhfXVw
3) Creating Inclusive Customer Experiences Through Digital Accessibility | TPGi GAAD 2022 Agenda
May 19th 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | In honor of Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD), TPGi is connecting with and highlighting individuals that are passionate about advancing digital accessibility programs at their organizations and are focused on creating inclusive customer experiences. Join host TPGi's Mark Miller, Director — Emerging Accounts & Platform, with special guests. This conversation will help you learn about how these individuals started their accessibility program, the challenges they encountered, what maturity stage their accessibility program is currently, and helpful tips they can share to help your digital accessibility operate more efficiently. Save your seat for this conversation; you won't want to miss it! Register today!
https://www.tpgi.com/may-19-gaad-creating-inclusive-customer-experiences-through-digital-accessibility/
4) OrCam Free Demo Day | AdaptiVision
May 20th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | AdaptiVision is delighted to offer a free OrCam Demo Day on Friday, May 20th 2022. Attendees will have the chance to try out the latest OrCam assistive devices for low vision and blindness, including the OrCam MyEye and the OrCam Read Smart. These high-tech devices use artificial intelligence to convert visual information into audio, helping the user read text, recognize faces, distinguish colors and currency, and identify products. They are small, discreet, and easy to use. Notably, the Read Smart, a handheld reader designed for people with low vision, dyslexia, or other reading challenges, was named one of TIME Magazine's 100 Best Inventions of 2021. The demo day will be held at The Carroll Center for the Blind, one of the nation's preeminent vision rehabilitation centers. Event details: Date: Friday, May 20, 2022. Location: The Carroll Center for the Blind, 770 Centre Street, Newton, MA 02458. Time: 10:00 AM. Cost: Free. Pre-registration is required. Visit the link below to learn more and register:
https://lowvisionsource.com/orcam-demo-day/
5) Computer Magnification Made Easy | From IRIE-AT: SuperNova 10-Minute Trainings
May 24th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Join Miranda McPherson, AT Trainer, Professor and SuperNova user each week as she delivers practical, 10-minute training webinars that will help you build core computing skills using SuperNova Magnifier, Speech and Screen Reader:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_bZeED-jwQUqkQK-Bwq0PYw?_x_zm_rtaid=fLk2aOXRT722PTe9sYE0EA.1652816435272.bc800e8cf5b23a93259e41d00cbf2a03&_x_zm_rhtaid=637
6) A Webinar Of Anxiety: Developments In Accessibility For People With Anxiety And Panic Disorders | TPGi
May 24th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, XXX GMT | Presenter: Dr. David Swallow, Lead UX Consultant and Senior Accessibility Engineer. Awareness of the impact of online accessibility for people with anxiety and panic disorders has grown in recent years. High-pressure sales tactics and deceptive patterns have caught the attention of lawmakers. Banks have introduced new measures to support vulnerable customers. Social media companies have recognized the impact of their services on users' mental health. But has this made any difference? In this webinar, TPGi's Dr. David Swallow, Lead UX Consultant and Senior Accessibility Engineer will provide an update on developments in understanding this often-overlooked aspect of web accessibility. He'll explore aspects of user interface and user experience design that contribute to feelings of anxiety and panic. He'll also examine whether the web is still as anxiety-inducing as ever, highlight recent initiatives aimed at addressing anxiety-related issues, and share recommendations on what organizations can do to improve the user experience for people with anxiety and panic disorders:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-may-24-at-12pm-et-a-webinar-of-anxiety-developments-in-accessibility-for-people-with-anxiety-and-panic-disorders/
7) Brailliant BI X and Mantis Q40 — What's new in Version 2.0.0? | The Braillists Foundation
May 24th 2022 | 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12AM, 5/25 GMT | Version 2.0.0 is coming soon and will contain some significant new enhancements for the Brailliant BI X and Mantis Q40 braille displays. If you want to be more productive and efficient using your Braille display, join Andrew and Peter to find out what's new in the most updated software version. We are sure there will be some tremendous good reasons you should update to the latest software. Don't worry, and we will make sure to have time for your questions at the end:
https://humanware.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Uo3HUi1_R8qCm8HGQpP9zg
8) Basics of PowerPoint Remediation | Access Ingenuity
May 25th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Rachel Reeves from Access Ingenuity to learn how to make your PowerPoint file as accessible as possible for screen readers. Learning Outcomes: Highlight the use of Office formatting features and how to leverage them to create the most accessible end product possible. Explore the accessibility tools in PowerPoint such as the Reading Order pane and how to add alternative text. Go through the steps in creating a clean PowerPoint Accessibility Check. Meeting ID: 819 7420 5040 | Passcode: 255996 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,81974205040#,,,,*255996# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81974205040?pwd=WjI5ZUlrMm5aMkxhUXJEd3B4cGdPdz09
9) Reading and Typing Anywhere | From IRIE-AT: SuperNova 10-Minute Trainings
May 31st 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Join Miranda McPherson, AT Trainer, Professor and SuperNova user each week as she delivers practical, 10-minute training webinars that will help you build core computing skills using SuperNova Magnifier, Speech and Screen Reader:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_X6Kn2OGWQUusnluTr5xhgw?_x_zm_rtaid=fLk2aOXRT722PTe9sYE0EA.1652816435272.bc800e8cf5b23a93259e41d00cbf2a03&_x_zm_rhtaid=637
10) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Beginners | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 4th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) 1:00 - 2:15 PM ET. If you're new to using Voiceover on the iPhone or if you're still working toward confidence, this discussion group is for you. We'll spend some time going over the theory of how screen readers work, gestures everyone needs to know, and some strategies for getting help. Then, we'll open it up for questions and networking. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
11) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Users: Beyond the Basics | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 4th 2022 | 11:30AM PT, 12:30AM, 1:30PM CT, 2:30PM ET, 6:30PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) from 2:30 - 4:00 PM ET. Talk about customizing gestures and settings, exploring new apps, choosing accessories, dealing with bugs, and whatever else comes to mind. This is a space for any and all Voiceover topics that go beyond the basics of using common gestures and built-in apps. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
12) Using iOS Shortcuts | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 9th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Thursday June 9, 2:00 - 3:30 PM Eastern. Shortcuts can be used to automate tasks and save time. Join us to explore examples of effective shortcuts and learn to create your own. This event will take place in person and online. Email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to RSVP in person, or register to participate online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZElc-itrjgvHNDogsDg6wMe47pOluSIcXYI?_x_zm_rtaid=O_T4jl2gQk-eJ1vIXaeqDw.1648421599270.e098cddc0d3e6ab8b653afe6c5833f53&_x_zm_rhtaid=371
13) Gadgets and Apps for Safe Navigation | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
June 11th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. There are many apps and devices that can aid a visually impaired traveler through the unknown. Avoid low-hanging obstacles and other obstructions. Which ones can you afford and which ones offer the best protection?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
14) Tactile Drawing from Still Life | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 11th 2022 | 10:30 AM PT, 11:30 AM MT, 12:30 PM CT, 1:30 PM ET, 5:30 PM GMT | Saturday June 11th 2022 from 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM Eastern In this hands-on workshop, we'll explore still life scenes of 3D objects and then create accessible tactile drawings. A variety of tactile media will be offered. This hands-on event will take place in person. Please email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to RSVP.
15) Intro to Google Translate | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 15th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Wednesday June 15th 2022 from 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM Eastern. Take a deep dive into this powerful cross-platform tool for translation. We'll explore how to translate from speech, text, handwriting and the camera; how to build a list of phrases you use often; and what you need to know about conversational and continuous translation. This event will take place in person and online. Email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to attend in person, or register to participate online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZElc-itrjgvHNDogsDg6wMe47pOluSIcXYI?_x_zm_rtaid=5aP3v6sNTtuCFyUfVDXxaQ.1648429186785.e6167c6b9ddb64d3c5052fc57b1d89aa&_x_zm_rhtaid=506
16) Eye Drop Webinar | Accessible Pharmacy
June 22nd 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | This webinar will have a live ASL interpreter, and closed captioning. If you are unable to attend, still be sure to register to receive access to the webinar audio and video via email afterwards. Please join us as we discuss tips and techniques for using eye drops as well as trends in eye drop refill legislation. Speakers will include experts from The Chicago Lighthouse and Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind. Questions? Please contact info@accessiblepharmacy.com 📧️. To read about the speakers and to register, click the link below:
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/eye-drop-webinar/
17) Accessible Book Apps | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
July 9th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Accessibility can mean smartphone, computer, e-reader, or smart device. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
18) NaviLens and Apple air Tags | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
August 13th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Labeling and tracking just got a whole lot easier! Learn how to use these exciting new products. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
19) Pixel Phone | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
September 10th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Has Android bridged the gap with Apple with this remarkable new device? All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
20) iOS 16 Review And Editing Voice Memos | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
October 1st 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Every year we look for accessibility improvements in our i-devices. See what is new in this latest version of the Apple operating system. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
21) AT Gifts for the Holidays | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Our annual look at gadgets and gizmos that will make your holiday season a successful one. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
22) 20 Websites to Bookmark for 2023 | Technology User Group, Maryland State Library
November 5th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | Technology keeps changing and so do the websites that are useful in our everyday lives. Find out why these 20 websites are so important for 2023. All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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 Orcam Read
Listing Date: 5/5/2022 | Price: $1,100.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Barely 6 months old. Never used. For visually impaired. Version 9. Sells for $1,800. | Contact: Michael via Email at: miketmarano@icloud.com 📧️ or by phone at:(413) 786-1724 📱️. |
2) FOR SALE: Put A New 32 Cell Braille Display in Your Braillenote for Cheap
Listing Date: 4/28/2022 | Price: $925.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Is your Braillenote Touch Plus 32 or Touch 32 or Apex 32 not as perfect as it was when new? Then just replace it with a brand new perfect one for only $925. We also take trade-in Braille devices to further help you with the price for the new display. | Contact: Joe via Email at: newbraille32@gmail.com 📧️ or by phone at:(726) 777-9536 📱️. |
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: Blind Mice Mega Mall
➜ DannyBoy Portable Smart Phone & Device Stand Save 20% Now $39.99
The DannyBoy Portable Stand holds your Smart Phone stationary so it's camera can view items and documents clearly providing stability for excellent recognition & clarity. Take perfect pictures and scan images. Read documents quickly and easily. Great for anyone with motor disabilities, too! Made with the Blind In Mind! Lightweight & Portable. Ready To Use or Collapses In Seconds. Read All About the DannyBoy Portable Stand at DannyBoy.com in BlindMiceMegaMall.com at:
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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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
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
➜ VisionAware Resources: The Reader's Digest Getting Started Guide to Vision Loss?
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
➜ 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/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
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)
➜ Start Your Coding Journey Today with APH's Road to Code!
Want to learn more about coding but don't know where to start? Look no further! APH's Road to Code provides a roadmap for coding progression through all our fun and engaging coding products.
https://bit.ly/3HueRfI
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 Daisy Player and Entertainment System, The Evo 12
We are pleased to announce the availability of our new daisy player and entertainment system, the Evo 12. It utilizes the highly listenable Sally and Joey voices and reads Bookshare as well as epub, word and text documents. It does not accept either BARD or Audible files. The Evo now supports the "abc" method for entering text, along with its most exciting new feature, stereo recording from the internal microphone as well as from the Internet radio and FM radio. For better reception, a flexible antenna has been added. Another unique and very popular feature makes possible basic editing of recorded files. The unit also contains a memo recorder, voice reminders and timers, a color reader, Internet radio, and podcatcher to which your own entries can be added to the player database. The introductory price through July 31st is $289.00. The player is available both from GuideLights and Gadgets and from our collaborative partner, Mystic Access. For additional information, contact Barry Scheur at (617) 969-7500 📱️ or bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.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
➜ 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
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
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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.
Your Name Here
0 of 12 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 0 of 12 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, May 12, 2022 - Volume 858
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.
Subscribers: 7,234 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Top Tech Tidbits Premium Subscriber Option Now Available
In addition to supporting upgrades to the Top Tech Tidbits Publication Premium Subscribers also receive our new quarterly issue which provides a complete listing of each of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits of the Last 3 Months, as voted on by Tidbit reader clicks. This special quarterly issue is provided to Premium Subscribers as a native Microsoft Word document with full headings, titles, abstracts and links. Premium Subscribers will receive their first quarterly compilation of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits of the Last 3 Months on Monday, July 4th 2022 at 4:00 AM ET. And then every 3 months thereafter. For a total of 4 issues per year. All for just $1 per month. Please consider joining us today!
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/premium-subscribers.html#subscribe
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Free Guide for Blind iPhone Users (9.8% of all clicks.)
After two years, Michael Feir has released Personal Power: Getting the Most From iOS as a Totally Blind User. This second edition of his guide is available free to all in several formats. Get the guide at:
http://michaelfeir.blogspot.com/2022/04/the-second-edition-of-personal-power.html?m=1
B.) JAWS Power Tip: How To Navigate Your Outlook Inbox Like A Table (7.9% of all clicks.)
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/74.html
C.) What are Hearables? (7.6% of all clicks.)
Odds are, you've heard of wearables — think fitness trackers, smart clothing, smartwatches, and display glasses. But what about hearables? We have all the info on what they are, who should use them, how they can help you, and where you can get them:
https://www.reviewgeek.com/114421/what-are-hearables/
D.) Tips for Accessible Screen Sharing (5.5% of all clicks.)
For many of us, phone calls have largely been replaced with meetings over video conferencing platforms like Zoom. One advantage to these platforms is the ability to share computer screens. We have all likely been in virtual meetings where someone says, "it's easier if I just share my screen," and it's true that screen sharing is often an effective way to demonstrate tasks or share information. However, screen sharing comes with some accessibility dangers:
https://webaim.org/blog/tips-for-accessible-screen-sharing/
E.) Voice Dream Reader for Desktop (5.1% of all clicks.)
Voice Dream Reader is a popular text to speech app on iOS and Android. The product's developer has now released a desktop version:
https://apps.apple.com/app/id972112040
2) 2022 Global Accessibility Awareness Day Reminder
This is just a Top Tech Tidbits reminder to join us in celebrating Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) Next Thursday, May 19th 2022. The purpose of GAAD is to get everyone talking, thinking and learning about digital access and inclusion, and the more than one billion people with disabilities / impairments:
https://accessibility.day/
3) Top Tech Tidbits Publisher Updates for May 12th 2022
Updates this week include: (1) Welcome back to Jonathan Mosen and the Mosen at Large Podcast | (2) Bouncing is for Balls. Not Emails. Why Are There So Many Hurdles To Receiving Emails From Top Tech Tidbits? | (3) PayPal Unable To Serve Deafblind Subscribers. Top Tech Tidbits Offers Free Lifetime Premium Memberships to all Deafblind Readers | (4) A Note About The Blind Lifestyle Newsletter and Top Tech Tidbits Partner Donna Jodhan:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/75.html
4) JAWS Power Tip: Lock Your Keyboard With JAWS
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/76.html
5) Android 13 Will Introduce New Restrictions On Sideloaded Apps
With an aim to crack down on apps that misuse the Accessibility API, Google is planning to introduce new restrictions on sideloaded apps with Android 13, according to Mishaal Rahman at Esper. The proposed restrictions will affect APK files that come from unreliable sources:
https://www.neowin.net/news/android-13-will-introduce-new-restrictions-on-sideloaded-apps/
6) Ask Alexa
A.) Speaker groups allow you to play music, podcasts and news on multiple Echo devices at once, providing a Multi-room audio experience.
Just say, "Alexa, move my music to the kitchen."
B.) Set a reminder with Alexa so you don't forget family plans.
Just say, "Alexa, remind me to join my family call on Sunday."
C.) Streamline your day with Featured Routines in the Alexa app. Routines are like ready-made shortcuts — or you can easily create your own Routines from scratch, limited only by your imagination!
Just say, "Alexa, enable the Good Morning Routine."
D.) Personalize your Flash Briefings by choosing providers that report on the entertainment, business, sports, and local news that you care about most.
Just say, "Alexa, play Flash Briefing."
E.) Transform your apprentice knight into a powerful paladin, and battle evil forces like Dark Tower Knights and terrifying Dark Forest orcs.
Just say, "Alexa, start Knight Manager."
7) Microsoft Adaptive Accessories
Microsoft has announced new adaptive accessories, including a mouse, buttons, and a hub. They will be available this Fall:
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/store/b/microsoft-adaptive-accessories
8) Auto-Generated Summaries In Google Docs
Google announced that it will be able to summarize long documents, chat, and other text-based communications:
https://ai.googleblog.com/2022/03/auto-generated-summaries-in-google-docs.html
9) The Music Lives On
Apple has discontinued the iPod Touch. For many the iPod Touch 3GS was their first experience with an accessible touchscreen device (this contributor (Stephen (Alex) Marositz) still has theirs). Voiceover on iOS came about in 2009:
https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2022/05/the-music-lives-on/
10) Reimagining The Apps Included With Windows 11
Microsoft continues to release new apps that come included with Windows. One of these is a new version of Sound Recorder, just released to Windows Insiders:
https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2022/05/10/reimagining-the-apps-included-with-windows-11/
11) Stream Audio Directly To Your Compatible Bluetooth Hearing Aids:
Amazon has announced that hearing aid wearers can now connect them directly to the Fire TV Cube (2nd Generation). Here's how and check compatibility:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html?nodeId=202105050
12) Xbox Accessibility Guidelines V3.0
The Xbox Accessibility Guidelines have been updated to include information on mental health, motion sickness, and text sizing:
https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/gaming/accessibility/guidelines
13) BrailleSense 6 MINI Using BrailleSense Cloud Drive | HIMS | YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MzuEB9LOiqI
14) The 5 Best Text-to-Speech Add-ons for Firefox
Whether you use text-to-speech for accessibility or convenience, it's hard to find the feature everywhere online. So, here are five Firefox add-ons:
https://www.makeuseof.com/best-text-to-speech-firefox-add-ons/
15) A List of Various Master Classes From The Braillists Foundation
The Braillists Foundation runs regular Masterclasses introducing various aspects of using braille and available braille technologies. On this page you can find resources produced by the Braillists Foundation, including recordings and notes from previous events:
https://www.braillists.org/media/
16) Freedom Scientific May 2022 Training Events
The Freedom Scientific training team offers ongoing opportunities for you to advance your skills:
https://blog.freedomscientific.com/join-us-for-our-may-2022-training-events/
17) LibreOffice 7.3.3 Community Available For Download
LibreOffice 7.3.3 Community, the third minor release of the LibreOffice 7.3 family, targeted at technology enthusiasts and power users, is available for download:
https://blog.documentfoundation.org/blog/2022/05/05/libreoffice-733-community/
18) TPGi's Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) 2022 Webinar Lineup
In honor of GAAD, TPGi is hosting three events throughout the next week to help educate people on digital accessibility, how inaccessible digital products like a self-service kiosk can impact people with disabilities, and what people are doing to create more inclusive user experiences for all:
https://www.tpgi.com/global-accessibility-awareness-day-gaad-2022/
19) Microsoft Releases A New Sound Recorder App For Windows 11 Insiders
Microsoft has announced a new Sound Recorder app for users in the Dev Channel of the Windows 11 Insider Preview Program. It replaces the Voice Recorder app, and brings a revamped design with more options:
https://www.ghacks.net/2022/05/11/new-sound-recorder-app-windows-11/
20) Update To Bixby Makes It Quicker And Easier To Answer Some Samsung Galaxy Phones Hands-Free
Samsung refuses to abandon its Bixby digital assistant leaving it on its phones even though it is barely used. For the most part, Google Assistant, which of course is available on Samsung's handsets, has more capabilities than Samsung's Bixby. The manufacturer has long given up on having Bixby become a legit challenger to the big three assistants which are Google Assistant, Apple's Siri, and Amazon's Alexa:
https://www.phonearena.com/news/samsung-bixby-update_id140025
21) Firefox 101 Beta Brings Back The Download Prompt Allowing Users To Choose Whether To Open Or Save Files
Mozilla changed the download behavior of Firefox when it released version 97 of the browser, by skipping the prompt that allowed users to choose whether to Open a file, save it, or cancel the action. When you click on a download link, the file gets saved to your Downloads folder. Most other browsers have this behavior enabled by default, so Mozilla was following the trend. That's not always a good idea. Since the browser downloads files by default, this could result in the Downloads directory getting cluttered with files that you did not want to download, i.e. accidentally clicking a link, or clicking the wrong link. It wasn't surprising to see that many users weren't happy with this change:
https://www.ghacks.net/2022/05/05/mozilla-firefox-101-beta-download-prompt-for-opening-and-saving-files/
22) Revolutionary eSight 4 Vision Assistance Device to be Showcased at Retina World Congress in Fort Lauderdale, Florida from May 12th 2022 through May 15th 2022
Leading vision enhancement platform, eSight,has announced that it is holding demonstrations of its flagship medical device, the eSight 4, at the Retina World Congress in Fort Lauderdale, May 12 through May 15 2022. eSight will be attending the conference with eSight 4 user Gary Foster to foster dialogue about patient needs and the future of assistive technology:
https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2022/05/10/2439808/0/en/Revolutionary-eSight-4-Vision-Assistance-Device-to-be-Showcased-at-Retina-World-Congress.html
23) #CSUNATC22 Audio: Navigating Through The Mazes Of Math With APH's Road To Code
Higher end math and computational thinking are skill sets that can provide amazing opportunities to many at a young age. The problem that persists is how do parents and educators find the right accessible tools for mastering these abilities in the K-12 environment?
https://www.blindbargains.com/bargains.php?m=22487
24) Linux Accessibility: An Unmaintained Mess
Linux is mainly known as a server operating system. It performs impressively on that front, being used by just about every company out there. But through the years, some people in the tech community have made it their personal, home computer operating system as well. There are several podcasts where people talk about the viability of Linux on the desktop. However, as Linux reaches more and more mainstream users, it brings to light the disappointing truth that not everyone can use it. Those with disabilities, who could be the most helped by its open-source nature, are instead left for the for-profit companies which, regardless of what else they've done, at least have made their offerings more or less accessible:
https://medium.com/@r.d.t.prater/linux-accessibility-an-unmaintained-mess-8fbf9decaf8a
25) Low-Hanging Fruit: 4 Accessibility Issues That Make a Website an Easy Target
Here we look at several common WCAG failures that can raise an organization's risk of compliance violations (and provide quick tips for addressing those issues):
https://www.boia.org/blog/low-hanging-fruit-5-accessibility-issues-that-make-a-website-an-easy-target
26) Tractive GPS Dog LTE Tracker | PC Mag
If you're in the market for a GPS pet tracker, you probably want one that informs you as quickly as possible of your pet's escape. The $49.99 Tractive GPS Dog LTE Tracker offers the fastest escape alerts of any tracker we've tested, in a convenient design that securely attaches to your dog's existing collar with a rubber clip. We also like that a Basic subscription, which includes live location, activity, and sleep monitoring, is more affordable than you get with competitors. Although its battery life could be longer and we'd like to see more health and social features, the Tractive still offers top-notch GPS tracking for a resonable price, earning it our Editors' Choice award:
https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/tractive-gps-dog-lte-tracker
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Accessibility in Education and Learning Styles
"Accessible education" (also known as "accessible learning") is "the process of designing courses and developing a teaching style to meet the needs of people from a variety of backgrounds, abilities, and learning styles." Accessible education follows similar principles of web accessibility and other access-related standards and guidelines — maintain consistency, ensure effective communication, provide course-related materials in formats that can be understood, etc. Essentially, poorly designed environments negatively impact accessibility and the student's ability to learn:
https://www.accessibility.com/blog/how-learning-styles-impact-accessibility-in-education
2) Bose to Exit Hearing Aid Market as Company Shutters Health Division
A Boston Globe report on May 3, 2022 confirmed months of rumors circulating in the hearing industry — that the Bose hearing aid division was either closing or shifting its business strategy:
https://hearinghealthmatters.org/hearingnewswatch/2022/bose-exits-hearing-aid-market/
3) Finalists Announced for 2022 Braille Challenge Finals
The Braille Institute is proud to announce the 50 finalists for the 2022 Braille Challenge Finals competition. These competitors achieved the highest scores in the braille literacy testing competition, out of over 800 youth across the U.S., Canada and U.K.:
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/finalists-announced-for-2022-braille-challenge-finals-301540168.html
4) Bandcamp Faces Legal Action From Visually Impaired Musicians
A visually impaired musician named Linda Slade has brought the class action suit against Bandcamp. Slade has no vision whatsoever and must rely on screen readers to browse the internet. Bandcamp's website lacks accessibility features intended to make it easier for people with visual impairments to browse it:
https://www.digitalmusicnews.com/2022/05/03/bandcamp-faces-legal-action-visually-impaired-musicians/
5) Malta's First Blind Artist Publishes Book Collecting Works From Visually-Impaired Artists
By way of the book — 'The Art Beyond Light Project' — a number of talented artists have been allowed to express their imagination by pitching their own unique paintings:
https://lovinmalta.com/malta/maltas-first-blind-artist-publishes-book-collecting-works-from-visually-impaired-artists/
6) Allowing Blind People To See Again With A Wireless Implant
Being able to see without eyes sounds like a miracle, but in the not-too-distant future, a new brain chip could allow the blind and visually impaired to perceive images again. Ph.D. student Adedayo Omisakin worked on wireless communication from and to this innovative implant. He defended his research at the department of Electrical Engineering on Friday April 22nd 2022:
https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-05-people-wireless-implant.html
7) What is it Like to Be a Blind Writer Writing for Sighted Readers?
What is it like to be blind in an industry overwhelmingly dominated by sighted individuals? Jessica Powers, founder and publisher at Catalyst Press, spoke to George Mendoza and Kristen Witucki about crafting stories for sighted readers, finding community and release in fiction, and battling ableism in traditional publishing and publicity:
https://lithub.com/what-is-it-like-to-be-a-blind-writer-writing-for-sighted-readers/
8) PNC Class Action Alleges Website Not Accessible To Blind, Visually Impaired
Who: A legally blind woman is suing PNC. Why: She says the PNC website is not accessible with a screen reader, depriving blind people from using its services online. Where: The case is pending in New York federal court:
https://topclassactions.com/disability-class-action-lawsuit/pnc-class-action-alleges-website-not-accessible-to-blind-visually-impaired/
➜ Surveys
1) APH Surveys Page
Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther Episode 50: Episode 50: Bear-Human Interactions And Overcoming Disfigurement And A Disability
May 1st 2022 | On episode 50 of Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther Ms Lilly explains how bears in Pakistan are being liberated. We here from bear researcher Dr. Barrie Gilbert about his own much to close encounter with an angry mother Grizzly. Barrie describes how he overcame his facial disfigurement and loss of one eye to become a world-famous Grizzly Bear expert and advocate. Lawrence also shares his own much less traumatic encounter with a Black Bear while tent camping:
https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/episode-50-bear-human-interactions-and-overcoming/id1530444764?i=1000559262327
2) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 74, It's Simply App Bonanza
May 7th 2022 | On May 14th 2002 at 9AM Pacific we recorded our 75th episode. Listeners can join in live to take part in the celebrations at: https://meet.google.com/wro-pssc-fzv. This week, we demo 3 apps. LinkedIn, Cloud Radio, and a social networking app Mastodon. We then discuss the 2-finger triple-tap and hold gesture of Talkback. Our podcast can be found on all popular podcatcher and podcast platforms and on Youtube at:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqqxi2NDFrQ5jPhNlxuKM1ad
3) Mosen At Large Episode 177: Blind People On Juries, ACB's Advocacy Priorities, An Explosive New Book About Apple, And Part 1 Of An Extensive Look At The Blindshell Classic 2
4) Eyes on Success 2219 The Hosts as Guests
May 11th 2022 | Every week Peter and Nancy Torpey interview interesting guests from around the world for their Eyes On Success weekly podcast. This week, however, the tables are turned as Sonia Usatch-Kuhn, host of the North Carolina Radio Reading Services Community Connections podcast, interviews Peter and Nancy about their own lives and careers and show:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202219.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Premium Services Using Alexa and Google | Technology User Group
May 14 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. Alexa and Google are adding premium services to their skill set. How do you subscribe to these services and use them?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
2) You Don't Know What You Don't Know | TPGi GAAD 2022 Agenda
May 17th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | With the increasing popularity of coding bootcamps, people turn to these programs for new and rewarding careers. However, as tech companies hire these recent grads, a clear skills gap exists: Accessibility isn't part of the bootcamp curriculum. So while we're out here trying to make the web more accessible, a torrent of new developers are unleashed into the workforce every year, unaware and unprepared. In celebration of GAAD 2022, "The Outlaw" Jonny James, Senior Accessibility Engineer, will draw from his own experience, challenging our existing paradigm of what it means to be qualified to work in this field and how the gatekeepers of web accessibility could be harming the industry, once referred to as "the business of empathy." Register today!
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-may-17-at-12pm-you-dont-know-what-you-dont-know/
3) Introducing the TOPAZ Ultra (ACVREP CE Approved) | Access Ingenuity
May 18th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos from Access ingenuity and Joe McDaniel from Vispero to explore the features of the TOPAZ Ultra. The TOPAZ Ultra is the next generation of portable magnifiers. With its unique folding design, it's easy to take with you wherever you go. The TOPAZ Ultra offers the same reading comfort, ease of use, and functionality as a desktop video magnifier in a compact and portable design. TOPAZ Ultra is ideal for individuals who need a lightweight magnification solution in different locations - at home, in the office or classroom, and on the go. Use the TOPAZ Ultra right out of the box to magnify text and objects up close, in the distance, and even look at yourself with its convenient 3-in-1 camera. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: Features walkthrough of the TOPAZ Ultra. Differences from previous TOPAZ portable models. How the TOPAZ Ultra can be an effective reading tool. Meeting ID: 898 9510 6641 | Passcode: 641890 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,89895106641#,,,,*641890# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose). Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89895106641?pwd=ZUZyc2k3Nmh1b05Kai95Vm9NK1ZMdz09
4) Where in the World: Accessible Wayfinding and Mapping for iOS | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 18th 2022 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Wednesday May 18th 2022 from 3:00 - 4:30 PM ET. We'll explore accessible mainstream apps like Apple and Google Maps, which can give you walking or transit directions and help you discover points of interest in your city. Plus, we'll explore Microsoft Soundscape and GoodMaps, two apps built to give you precise, accessible guidance. This event will take place in person and online. To attend in person, please RSVP to ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ or register via Zoom to join online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMrcu2rrjkjGd0aaqdPZNDeB4iaC3L06-Lo
5) How To Create An Accessible Kiosk (Ask Me Anything) | TPGi GAAD 2022 Agenda
May 18th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Did you know that self-service kiosks need to be accessible? If you own or are considering launching self-check-in kiosks or lockers at some of your business locations or are currently researching how you can improve your customer experiences, this session is for you. Join Matt Ater, Vice President, Corporate Business Development, Vispero; Laura Miller, Director of Business Development, Vispero; and Ryan Jones, Solutions Architect, TPGi, on May 18 at 1 PM eastern. They will answer your questions on how to create accessible kiosk experiences:
https://www.tpgi.com/may-18-at-1-pm-et-gaad-2022-how-to-create-an-accessible-kiosk-experience-ask-me-anything/
6) The National Transition Conversation 2022: APH Transition Hub & Pre ETS Program Field Updates
May 19th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | The National Transition Conversation 2022: APH Transition Hub & Pre ETS Program field updates Lisamaria Martinez, Richard Rueda. ACVREP credits available. Wondering how can APH Transition Hub support and increase the number of families that are directed to your summer residential program? Learn the latest innovations from APH CareerConnect. Join the National Transition Conversation as the APH ConnectCenter unveils the latest features of the Transition Hub project, and shares updates on CareerConnect. Just in time for summer programming across the United States, the National Transition Conversation will provide three mini forums spotlighting some of our partner transition programs and services. The second hour will provide a forum for practitioners, rehabilitation personnel, transition specialists and program administrators to share their own program successes and learn from other programs. Register here:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_A-h3iZRzSCitNrhTdOTrVQ
7) Navigating the Web Today, Tips on Accessing Common Web Page Elements with JAWS | Freedom Scientific
May 19th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Do you find navigating certain web elements challenging? Want to clear the clutter when accessing information? Join us Thursday, May 19, 2022, at noon Eastern Time for a live webinar, "Navigating the Web Today, Tips on Accessing Common Web Page Elements with JAWS." We'll provide an overview of several web page elements you may encounter when surfing the web, and show you how to: Access expandable menus. Navigate modals. Customize websites using Flexible Web so web page content is easier to read. ACVREP credits will be available for those who attend the live webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_ja366UUvQyWzfOSOhhfXVw
8) Creating Inclusive Customer Experiences Through Digital Accessibility | TPGi GAAD 2022 Agenda
May 19th 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT | In honor of Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD), TPGi is connecting with and highlighting individuals that are passionate about advancing digital accessibility programs at their organizations and are focused on creating inclusive customer experiences. Join host TPGi's Mark Miller, Director — Emerging Accounts & Platform, with special guests. This conversation will help you learn about how these individuals started their accessibility program, the challenges they encountered, what maturity stage their accessibility program is currently, and helpful tips they can share to help your digital accessibility operate more efficiently. Save your seat for this conversation; you won't want to miss it! Register today!
https://www.tpgi.com/may-19-gaad-creating-inclusive-customer-experiences-through-digital-accessibility/
9) OrCam Free Demo Day | AdaptiVision
May 20th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | AdaptiVision is delighted to offer a free OrCam Demo Day on Friday, May 20th 2022. Attendees will have the chance to try out the latest OrCam assistive devices for low vision and blindness, including the OrCam MyEye and the OrCam Read Smart. These high-tech devices use artificial intelligence to convert visual information into audio, helping the user read text, recognize faces, distinguish colors and currency, and identify products. They are small, discreet, and easy to use. Notably, the Read Smart, a handheld reader designed for people with low vision, dyslexia, or other reading challenges, was named one of TIME Magazine's 100 Best Inventions of 2021. The demo day will be held at The Carroll Center for the Blind, one of the nation's preeminent vision rehabilitation centers. Event details: Date: Friday, May 20, 2022. Location: The Carroll Center for the Blind, 770 Centre Street, Newton, MA 02458. Time: 10:00 AM. Cost: Free. Pre-registration is required. Visit the link below to learn more and register:
https://lowvisionsource.com/orcam-demo-day/
10) A Webinar Of Anxiety: Developments In Accessibility For People With Anxiety And Panic Disorders | TPGi
May 24th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, XXX GMT | Presenter: Dr. David Swallow, Lead UX Consultant and Senior Accessibility Engineer. Awareness of the impact of online accessibility for people with anxiety and panic disorders has grown in recent years. High-pressure sales tactics and deceptive patterns have caught the attention of lawmakers. Banks have introduced new measures to support vulnerable customers. Social media companies have recognized the impact of their services on users' mental health. But has this made any difference? In this webinar, TPGi's Dr. David Swallow, Lead UX Consultant and Senior Accessibility Engineer will provide an update on developments in understanding this often-overlooked aspect of web accessibility. He'll explore aspects of user interface and user experience design that contribute to feelings of anxiety and panic. He'll also examine whether the web is still as anxiety-inducing as ever, highlight recent initiatives aimed at addressing anxiety-related issues, and share recommendations on what organizations can do to improve the user experience for people with anxiety and panic disorders:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-may-24-at-12pm-et-a-webinar-of-anxiety-developments-in-accessibility-for-people-with-anxiety-and-panic-disorders/
11) Basics of PowerPoint Remediation | Access Ingenuity
May 25th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Rachel Reeves from Access Ingenuity to learn how to make your PowerPoint file as accessible as possible for screen readers. Learning Outcomes: Highlight the use of Office formatting features and how to leverage them to create the most accessible end product possible. Explore the accessibility tools in PowerPoint such as the Reading Order pane and how to add alternative text. Go through the steps in creating a clean PowerPoint Accessibility Check. Meeting ID: 819 7420 5040 | Passcode: 255996 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,81974205040#,,,,*255996# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81974205040?pwd=WjI5ZUlrMm5aMkxhUXJEd3B4cGdPdz09
12) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Beginners | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 4th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) 1:00 - 2:15 PM ET. If you're new to using Voiceover on the iPhone or if you're still working toward confidence, this discussion group is for you. We'll spend some time going over the theory of how screen readers work, gestures everyone needs to know, and some strategies for getting help. Then, we'll open it up for questions and networking. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
13) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Users: Beyond the Basics | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 4th 2022 | 11:30AM PT, 12:30AM, 1:30PM CT, 2:30PM ET, 6:30PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) from 2:30 - 4:00 PM ET. Talk about customizing gestures and settings, exploring new apps, choosing accessories, dealing with bugs, and whatever else comes to mind. This is a space for any and all Voiceover topics that go beyond the basics of using common gestures and built-in apps. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
14) Using iOS Shortcuts | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 9th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Thursday June 9, 2:00 - 3:30 PM Eastern. Shortcuts can be used to automate tasks and save time. Join us to explore examples of effective shortcuts and learn to create your own. This event will take place in person and online. Email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to RSVP in person, or register to participate online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZElc-itrjgvHNDogsDg6wMe47pOluSIcXYI?_x_zm_rtaid=O_T4jl2gQk-eJ1vIXaeqDw.1648421599270.e098cddc0d3e6ab8b653afe6c5833f53&_x_zm_rhtaid=371
15) Gadgets and Apps for Safe Navigation | Technology User Group
June 11th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. There are many apps and devices that can aid a visually impaired traveler through the unknown. Avoid low-hanging obstacles and other obstructions. Which ones can you afford and which ones offer the best protection?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
16) Tactile Drawing from Still Life | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 11th 2022 | 10:30 AM PT, 11:30 AM MT, 12:30 PM CT, 1:30 PM ET, 5:30 PM GMT | Saturday June 11th 2022 from 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM Eastern In this hands-on workshop, we'll explore still life scenes of 3D objects and then create accessible tactile drawings. A variety of tactile media will be offered. This hands-on event will take place in person. Please email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to RSVP.
17) Intro to Google Translate | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 15th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Wednesday June 15th 2022 from 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM Eastern. Take a deep dive into this powerful cross-platform tool for translation. We'll explore how to translate from speech, text, handwriting and the camera; how to build a list of phrases you use often; and what you need to know about conversational and continuous translation. This event will take place in person and online. Email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to attend in person, or register to participate online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZElc-itrjgvHNDogsDg6wMe47pOluSIcXYI?_x_zm_rtaid=5aP3v6sNTtuCFyUfVDXxaQ.1648429186785.e6167c6b9ddb64d3c5052fc57b1d89aa&_x_zm_rhtaid=506
18) Eye Drop Webinar | Accessible Pharmacy
June 22nd 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | This webinar will have a live ASL interpreter, and closed captioning. If you are unable to attend, still be sure to register to receive access to the webinar audio and video via email afterwards. Please join us as we discuss tips and techniques for using eye drops as well as trends in eye drop refill legislation. Speakers will include experts from The Chicago Lighthouse and Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind. Questions? Please contact info@accessiblepharmacy.com 📧️. To read about the speakers and to register, click the link below:
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/eye-drop-webinar/
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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 Orcam Read
Listing Date: 5/5/2022 | Price: $1,100.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Barely 6 months old. Never used. For visually impaired. Version 9. Sells for $1,800. | Contact: Michael via Email at: miketmarano@icloud.com 📧️ or by phone at:(413) 786-1724 📱️. |
2) FOR SALE: Put A New 32 Cell Braille Display in Your Braillenote for Cheap
Listing Date: 4/28/2022 | Price: $925.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Is your Braillenote Touch Plus 32 or Touch 32 or Apex 32 not as perfect as it was when new? Then just replace it with a brand new perfect one for only $925. We also take trade-in Braille devices to further help you with the price for the new display. | Contact: Joe via Email at: newbraille32@gmail.com 📧️ or by phone at:(726) 777-9536 📱️. |
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: Carroll Center for the Blind
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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
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
➜ VisionAware Resources Including the Directory of Services
APHConnectCenter 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 check out the Directory of Services to locate resources in your community for 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
➜ 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/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
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)
➜ Start Your Coding Journey Today with APH's Road to Code!
Want to learn more about coding but don't know where to start? Look no further! APH's Road to Code provides a roadmap for coding progression through all our fun and engaging coding products.
https://bit.ly/3HueRfI
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 Daisy Player and Entertainment System, The Evo 12
We are pleased to announce the availability of our new daisy player and entertainment system, the Evo 12. It utilizes the highly listenable Sally and Joey voices and reads Bookshare as well as epub, word and text documents. It does not accept either BARD or Audible files. The Evo now supports the "abc" method for entering text, along with its most exciting new feature, stereo recording from the internal microphone as well as from the Internet radio and FM radio. For better reception, a flexible antenna has been added. Another unique and very popular feature makes possible basic editing of recorded files. The unit also contains a memo recorder, voice reminders and timers, a color reader, Internet radio, and podcatcher to which your own entries can be added to the player database. The introductory price through July 31st is $289.00. The player is available both from GuideLights and Gadgets and from our collaborative partner, Mystic Access. For additional information, contact Barry Scheur at (617) 969-7500 📱️ or bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.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
➜ 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
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
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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
The DannyBoy Portable Stand holds your Smart Phone stationary so it's camera can view items and documents clearly providing stability for excellent recognition & clarity. Take perfect pictures and scan images. Read documents quickly and easily. Great for anyone with motor disabilities, too! Made with the Blind In Mind! Lightweight & Portable. Ready To Use or Collapses In Seconds. Read All About the DannyBoy Portable Stand at DannyBoy.com in BlindMiceMegaMall.com at:
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.
Your Name Here
0 of 12 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 0 of 12 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, May 5, 2022 - Volume 857
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.
Subscribers: 7,223 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Join Us From 2:00 PM To 4:00 PM (Eastern) On May 19th For Another National Transition Conversation
Wondering how can APH Transition Hub support and increase the number of families that are directed to your summer residential program? Learn the latest innovations from APH CareerConnect. Join the National Transition Conversation as the APH ConnectCenter unveils the latest features of the Transition Hub project, and shares updates on APH CareerConnect. Just in time for summer programming across the United States, the National Transition Conversation will provide three mini forums spotlighting our partner transition programs and services as well as a forum for practitioners, rehabilitation personnel, transition specialists, and program administrators to share their own program successes and learn from others.
https://aphconnectcenter.org/webinars/
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) 10 Popular Smartphone Myths That Aren't True (10.6% of all clicks.)
Doing these 10 things won't do your smartphone any good:
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/10-popular-smartphone-myths-that-arent-true/
B.) Spacefelt - A New Assistive Technology Innovation For People With Visual Impairment (6.8% of all clicks.)
I'm Vivian from Grailmaker Innovations. Our startup has developed Spacefelt, a tagging and labelling app for persons with visual impairment. Using it, the user can tag, label and identify objects around them independently. The idea of Spacefelt came up when my friend, Aishwarya, who is a visually impaired tactile artist wanted some technology that will help her identify colors:
https://newzhook.com/story/workshop-on-spacefelt-a-new-assistive-technology-innovation-for-people-with-visual-impairment/
C.) New Sensor Technology Helps Blind And Visually Impaired Pedestrians Avoid Hazards (6.5% of all clicks.)
A new patented technology from Intelligent Material Solutions, Inc. is designed to help pedestrians who are blind and visually impaired navigate busy sidewalks and avoid sidewalk hazards. The sensor tech uses a cooperative guidance system to determine the pedestrians' precise geolocation and guide them to public transportation, retail entrances, sidewalk exits and other locations:
https://coolblindtech.com/new-sensor-technology-helps-blind-and-visually-impaired-pedestrians-avoid-hazards/
D.) Send to Braille 2.0 Released (4.5% of all clicks.)
The American Printing House for the Blind is pleased to announce the release of an update to its popular Send to Braille application. This is a simple tool which adds options to the right click "Send to" menu to translate documents into braille and vice-versa:
https://www.braillists.org/uncategorised/send-to-braille-2-0-released/
E.) JAWS for Windows with Microsoft Teams Power Tip: Filtering by Unread Chats (3.4% of all clicks.)
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/73.html
2) Important Message For Anyone Employed By Freedom Scientific or Vispero Group
If you are employed by Freedom Scientific or Vispero Group, or know someone who is, we're asking you to please pass along a message to them from Top Tech Tidbits. We are currently unable to communicate with anyone at the company via email. Each time we send an email to anyone @vispero.com we receive a bounce notification which states the following: "SMTP error from remote server for RCPT TO command, host: vispero-com.mail.protection.outlook.com (REMOVED) reason: 550 5.7.1 Service unavailable, Client host [REMOVED] blocked using Customer Block list AS(1420) [DM6NAM12FT005.eop-nam12.prod.protection.outlook.com]." The email address we are sending FROM is editors@toptechtidbits.com. Please let them know that they will need to add our domain, toptechtidbits.com, to their email platform's Trusted Sender's list, or whitelist, in order to receive communications from us going forward. We are receiving them just fine. But anytime we try to reply, we get the message outlined above. Really appreciate the help. You can reach me, Aaron Di Blasi, directly at:
publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️
3) JAWS Power Tip: How To Navigate Your Outlook Inbox Like A Table
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/74.html
4) 2022 National Coding Symposium Presented by APH and Partners Takes Place Next Week from May 9th to May 13th
Calling all future coders! The 2022 APH Coding Symposium is back for the second year of coding fun and information! From basic, entry-level coding to more advanced concepts, we will explore some of the nuts and bolts of programming codes and the products that students and teachers are using to learn how to code. Our goal is to make the connections between students, teachers, and professionals in coding to share ideas and activities, resources, and career opportunities. This year, APH is partnering with student and teacher sites across the country to share activities and experiences with our virtual attendees. Activities can be done in advance on the Resource's page! Learning how to code is a pathway to all kinds of careers in all areas of technology. Meet the professionals in the industry who are leading the way for students interested in coding and learn about their career journeys. There will be award and scholarship opportunities this year! Check out the Awards page for more information on the drawing and how to apply for the available scholarships:
https://aphconnectcenter.org/coding/?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=Paid+Traffic+%28Google+Ads%29&utm_campaign=2022_Coding_Symposium
5) Hey Alexa
A.) Put your puzzling skills to the test in a tricky Escape Room adventure, with challenge rooms for every ability level.
Just say: "Alexa, open Escape the Room."
B.) Whoever answers the most questions in 60 seconds gets crowned this week's Trivia Hero.
Just say: "Alexa, open Trivia Hero."
C.) Find out if you can you handle the pressure of answering ten trivia questions in a row to win.
Just say: "Alexa, enable Feel the Pressure."
D.) Are you a music expert? Compete against another player to name that tune and artist from 25 catchy playlists.
Just say: "Alexa, open Song Blast."
6) Top Tech Tidbits Premium Subscriber Reminder
In addition to supporting upgrades to the Top Tech Tidbits Publication Premium Subscribers also receive our new quarterly issue which provides a complete listing of each of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits of the Last 3 Months, as voted on by Tidbit reader clicks. This special quarterly issue is provided to Premium Subscribers as a native Microsoft Word document with full headings, titles, abstracts and links. Premium Subscribers will receive their first quarterly compilation of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits of the Last 3 Months on Monday, July 4th 2022 at 4:00 AM ET. And then every 3 months thereafter. For a total of 4 issues per year. All for just $1 per month. Please consider joining us today!
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/premium-subscribers.html
7) Free Guide for Blind iPhone Users
After two years, Michael Feir has released Personal Power: Getting the Most From iOS as a Totally Blind User. This second edition of his guide is available free to all in several formats. Get the guide at:
http://michaelfeir.blogspot.com/2022/04/the-second-edition-of-personal-power.html?m=1
8) Tips for Accessible Screen Sharing
For many of us, phone calls have largely been replaced with meetings over video conferencing platforms like Zoom. One advantage to these platforms is the ability to share computer screens. We have all likely been in virtual meetings where someone says, "it's easier if I just share my screen," and it's true that screen sharing is often an effective way to demonstrate tasks or share information. However, screen sharing comes with some accessibility dangers:
https://webaim.org/blog/tips-for-accessible-screen-sharing/
9) Tip: Does The Facetime Control Bar Sometimes Get In Your Way? There's An Accessible Way To Dismiss It:
One of the new features introduced in iOS15 is this call control bar which provides FaceTime audio controls across the top of the iOS screen during a FaceTime audio call:
https://steves.life/2022/04/30/tip-does-the-facetime-control-bar-sometimes-get-in-your-way-theres-an-accessible-way-to-dismiss-it/
10) Duxbury 12.6 Released
This new version offers many performance improvements and optimizations, including a new version of the UKAAF template:
https://www.braillists.org/uncategorised/duxbury-12-6-released/
11) Thunderbird Mobile Application Is Coming Soon
Users of the open source email client Thunderbird may soon install it as an application for use on mobile devices:
https://www.ghacks.net/2022/05/03/thunderbird-mobile-application-is-coming-soon/
12) Beeping Eggs
The Rachael Project teaches participants to construct beeping eggs for an Easter egg hunt for blind children. There is also information on hosting beeping Easter egg hunts:
https://www.iabti.org/beeping-eggs/
13) Establishing A New Braille File Standard With The eBRF
APH is developing a successor to the BRF (braille ready format) called EBRF. EBRF provides formatted braille text and tactile graphics in one file with enhanced navigation:
https://www.aph.org/establishing-a-new-braille-file-standard-with-the-ebrf/
14) RightHear Is Turning Public Spaces Into Accessible Environments For The Blind And Visually Impaired
This is an app with associated Bluetooth beacons for indoor navigation. There are no RightHear enabled spaces near this contributor, but please feel free to let us know how it works if you do:
https://www.right-hear.com/
15) Voice Dream Reader for Desktop
Voice Dream Reader is a popular text to speech app on iOS and Android. The product's developer has now released a desktop version:
https://apps.apple.com/app/id972112040
16) Pioneering Accessible Navigation — Indoors And Outdoors
The popular navigation app, BlindSquare has been updated. Expanded support for Bluetooth hearing aids, Adding Moovit integration and turn-by-turn directions are among the improvements:
https://www.blindsquare.com/
17) What are Hearables?
Odds are, you've heard of wearables — think fitness trackers, smart clothing, smartwatches, and display glasses. But what about hearables? We have all the info on what they are, who should use them, how they can help you, and where you can get them:
https://www.reviewgeek.com/114421/what-are-hearables/
18) AppleVis Unlimited: What's New and Noteworthy for April 2022
https://www.applevis.com/newsletter/applevis-unlimited-whats-new-noteworthy-april-2022
19) Review: Reizen Talking Label Wand
Labeling items in your environment is an essential task if you're blind, but finding a quick and convenient way to do so can be a challenging process. Braille labels often mandate an arts-and-crafts session to type up, cut out, and place. Bump dots require you to create a code for yourself that you still have to remember. The Reizen Talking Label Wand offers an excellent solution to these shortcomings. The wand, which is about the length of an average adult hand, comes with packs of adhesive labels that you apply to objects by touching the tip of the wand to the sticker and speaking the information you want to include. To hear the label read the information again, simply touch the wand to the sticker, and your message will be played back to you. The Reizen has many different uses that can significantly increase independence, which makes this tool a powerful resource for people with visual disabilities:
https://www.reviewed.com/accessibility/content/reizen-talking-label-wand-review-alternative-braille-alphabet-reader-blind
20) Fire TV Launches Hearing Aid Pairing
We're thrilled to announce Fire TV Cube (2nd gen) now supports Audio Streaming for Hearing Aids, commonly known as ASHA. This makes Fire TV the first-ever streaming media player to support ASHA and allow customers to directly connect compatible Bluetooth hearing aids:
https://amazonfiretv.blog/fire-tv-launches-hearing-aid-pairing-423d56625683
21) Latest Chrome Beta Adopts Tab Reordering Via Keyboard Shortcuts
One of the best things about running a browser based on open-source code is the speed at which new features and improvements are introduced. Chrome is that kind of browser, with a slew of features constantly being tested in the Canary channel, where the brave and adventurous get to try out what's in development before everyone else. One such feature that has been in development and testing in the Canary channel for some time now is the ability to reorder tabs in a browser window by just using keyboard shortcuts. Sure, you could use a mouse, but nothing beats using a good old keyboard shortcut to get things done quicker. Originally posted by Redditor u/Leopeva64-2, the feature was first documented via a commit and was described as follows:
https://chromeunboxed.com/chrome-beta-tab-reordering
22) Welcome to Luna For Reddit. Part of the Luna Range: A Reminder That Just Because You're Blind Doesn't Mean You Can't Get To The Moon
Reddit is a very popular social media platform for people to share their thoughts, articles, hopes, dreams, ask questions and more. It has a web interface which, while usable, is rather fiddley for screen reader users and does not give you full functionality. Enter Luna For Reddit, the Windows client for screen reader users that is stepping up to the plate and accepting the challenge to make Reddit as accessible as they will allow. Luna implements as many relevant API's as possible into a sleek, fast interface that presents you with all the details that you choose:
https://nathantech.net/products/software/lunareddit.php
23) Announcing Emacspeak 56.0 — AgileDog
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/2022/04/announcing-emacspeak-560-agiledog.html
24) How to Borrow eBooks and Audiobooks from One of the Best US Libraries (US Only.)
For just $50 per year (renewable annually) you can become a member of Brooklyn Public Library, no matter what state you live in! Brooklyn Public Library has a collection of more than 400,000 books, magazines and audiobooks — one of the largest online libraries around. But not many people realize that they can borrow titles from this collection from out of state. All you need to do is fill out the form here in order to make an application for a library card:
https://www.lovemyfire.com/borrow-ebooks-audiobooks-from-brooklyn-public-library.html
25) Hable One Challenge - "There Is Just So Much I Can Do With This Little Device"!
Last month we ran a unique challenge for the Hable One Braille bluetooth smartphone keyboard, with great results! Each participant received a Hable One for two weeks and completed a number of challenges during that time. After the initial masterclass, participants had a few days to get used to their device and explore the features before their first challenge:
https://www.sightandsound.co.uk/hable-one-challenge-there-is-just-so-much-i-can-do-with-this-little-device/
26) NV Access In-Process for May 3rd 2022
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-3rd-may/
27) NVDA 2022.1beta4 Available For Testing
Beta4 of NVDA 2022.1 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-2022-1beta4/
28) PSA: Reading Apple Books On Kindle Still Won't Be Possible, Even With Upcoming Change
For years, there were two main competing ebook file formats: MOBI and EPUB. Amazon used MOBI for its Kindle devices, while Apple used EPUB for what were then iBooks and are now Apple Books. For a while, it looked like we might end up with a single standard, as most companies adopted EPUB. But this was not to be, as Amazon stuck stubbornly to MOBI:
https://9to5mac.com/2022/05/03/reading-apple-books-on-kindle-still-impossible/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) This Technology Helps Blind And Low-Vision Tennis Fans Follow Matches
Action Audio — a winner of Fast Company's 2022 World Changing Ideas Awards — turns a tennis ball's movements into "3D audio," allowing low-vision fans to track the ball during matches:
https://www.fastcompany.com/90740965/this-technology-helps-blind-and-low-vision-tennis-fans-follow-matches
2) I'm Deaf And I Have 'Perfect' Speech. Here's Why It's Actually A Nightmare.
Here is a personal article about deafness and hearing people's perceptions. We thought it was a good read:
https://www.huffpost.com/entry/coda-deaf-perfect-speech_n_624b2290e4b068157f7ac51f
3) Blind People Remember Language Better Than Sighted People Do
Blind people can remember speech better than sighted people, but a person's ability to see makes no difference in how they remember sound effects, found a new study by Johns Hopkins University and the University of California, Irvine:
https://hub.jhu.edu/2022/04/27/blind-people-recall-language-better-than-sighted-people/
4) How Star Trek: The Next Generation Explored Blindness & Accessibility With Geordi LaForge
Lavar Burton's chief engineer embodies everything right about Star Trek's diversity and representation:
https://gamerant.com/star-trek-next-generation-blindness-accessibility-disability-geordi-laforge/
5) 'See Beyond Festival' Draws Attention To Blind Sports, Accessibility Issues
More than 1,000 people attended the Maryland School for the Blind's annual See Beyond Festival to learn more about how others cope with vision impairment on Saturday, April 28th 2022 according to school staff:
https://baltimore.cbslocal.com/2022/04/30/see-beyond-festival-draws-attention-to-blind-sports-accessibility-issues/
6) Leading Global Accessibility Provider Recognized by McDonald's
TPGi is honored to be recognized by McDonald's for receiving the 2021 "Living the Values Award". The Living the Values Award, is given annually to a Global Technology Provider who has demonstrably impacted one or more of McDonald's values by putting customers first, creating an inclusive environment, operating with integrity, and supporting community efforts overall to be better together:
https://support.freedomscientific.com/About/News/Article/223
7) Designing Food Labels For the Visually Impaired
From Braille on boxes to QR codes for screen readers, producers are finding ways to make their goods more accessible:
https://modernfarmer.com/2022/05/food-labels-for-visually-impaired/
8) RNIB Petition Calls For Audio Descriptions On Streaming Services
Most video on demand services are still inaccessible to the 350,000 blind and partially sighted people living in the UK, the charity said:
https://www.aop.org.uk/ot/industry/charity/2022/04/26/rnib-petition-calls-for-audio-descriptions-on-streaming-services
9) Good Video Conferencing Etiquette - Zoom
More and more of us are conducting much of our work (and socialising) over video conferencing platforms. But, what's the best etiquette for these meetings? We've put together a guide of some best practice etiquette in a handy guide:
https://www.londonvision.org/technology/good-video-conferencing-etiquette-zoom/
10) Chanel's 'Awe-Inspiring' Disability-Friendly Website Leaves Gucci's Looking 'Less Than Desirable'
Chanel has been ranked as the most accessible fashion brand when it comes to online shopping:
https://www.professionaljeweller.com/chanels-awe-inspiring-disability-friendly-website-leaves-guccis-looking-less-than-desirable/
11) What Is Kindle Unlimited, and Is It Worth It?
There are plenty of services that will let you consume as many TV shows, movies, and music as you want for a monthly fee. But what about books? Is there a streaming service for books? Meet "Kindle Unlimited." Some people can finish 10 seasons of a TV show in a weekend, others can motor through a dozen books a week. If you relate to the latter, Kindle Unlimited is for you. Let's take a look at what this service has to offer:
https://www.howtogeek.com/799922/what-is-kindle-unlimited-and-is-it-worth-it/
12) Google Tests Technology To Help Utah Athletes With Blindness Exercise Unassisted
Utah athletes living with blindness regularly put their trust in sighted counterparts to guide their every footstep as they run across pathways they cannot see. But Google is developing technology that could one day allow these runners to exercise independently:
https://www.ksl.com/article/50392125/google-tests-technology-to-help-utah-athletes-with-blindness-exercise-unassisted
13) All Aboard Is Making Bus Stops More Accessible For Blind Bus Riders
If you are a bus rider, you have probably occasionally missed your bus because you were standing just a few steps away from the bus stop, the bus approached, the driver thought you weren't going to get on, and they drove off! (it's happened to me for sure!) For the visually impaired, this is a much bigger problem ("the last 10 meter problem") because GPS apps can bring them no closer than 10 meters from their target which may not be enough. Someone could possibly feel a pole with their cane and think it's a bus stop, but it actually might not be. Identifying physical bus stops is not an easy task for people with visual impairment:
https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2022/05/all-aboard-bus-stops-accessibility.html
14) Copyright Laws Shut Out Blind And Visually Impaired South Africans From The World Of Books
The magic of books is, for the blind or visually disabled, simply just out of reach, kept behind an act that is not locally or globally supported:
https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/opinionista/2022-04-28-copyright-laws-shut-out-blind-and-visually-impaired-south-africans-from-the-world-of-books/
15) Making Accessible Websites — What Are the Fundamental Considerations?
Considering the internet's global reach, it is important that websites are accessible to all users. The term web accessibility refers to making websites as inclusive as possible to as many users as possible, whether they have disabilities or not:
https://www.qrcodepress.com/making-accessible-websites/8541121/
16) Best Smart Home Device Deals for April 2022
https://bgr.com/deals/best-smart-home-devices-deals/
17) 'This Is The Boarding Queue For The Flight To Alaska, Not Atlanta': My Life As A Visually Impaired Travel Writer — And The Case For Everything Being A Bit Bigger, Please ...
Visually impaired travel writer Rob Crossan wants travel to be super-sized
He reveals how he struggles to read seat numbers, menus and info screens. He once missed a flight to Atlanta at JFK as he'd misread the gate information:
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/travel_news/article-10766643/My-life-visually-impaired-travel-writer-case-bit-bigger-please.html
18) Scarborough And Malton Train Stations Fitted With New Devices To Help Visually Impaired People
Toilets at railway stations across Scarborough and Malton have been fitted with a new electronic device to help blind and visually impaired people when it comes to navigating the facilities:
https://www.thescarboroughnews.co.uk/news/people/scarborough-and-malton-train-stations-fitted-with-new-devices-to-help-visually-impaired-people-3675824
19) Making TV More Accessible
There are many ways of making TV more accessible and pleasurable to watch and enjoy when you are blind or partially sighted. London Vision outlines them in this article:
https://www.londonvision.org/vision-confident/managing-sight-loss-courses/more-about-the-managing-sight-loss-course/accessible-tv/
20) Web Accessibility on a Budget: How to Get Started for Free or Little Cost
Some companies, especially small businesses, have concerns that website accessibility is cost prohibitive. They may want to ensure their websites are accessible to all their customers but don't know if they can afford it. Accessibility is an investment that pays off, but it doesn't have to be expensive to get started:
https://www.boia.org/blog/web-accessibility-on-a-budget-how-to-get-started-for-free-or-little-cost
➜ Surveys
1) APH Surveys Page
Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here:
https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther Episode 49: Animal Myths Busted and Camping for All Occasions
April 17th 2022 | On Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther, Ms. Lilly busts nine common animal myths and Lawrence shares his seven favorite bucket list camping destinations. We also explore the accessibility and perks of four different styles of camping:
https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/episode-49-animal-myths-busted-and-camping-for-all/id1530444764?i=1000557852719
2) Eye Doctors on Common Eye Conditions | Hadley Presents: A Conversation with the Experts
April 29th 2022 | In this episode, we're sharing highlights from previous interviews with a glaucoma specialist, retina specialist, and a low vision doctor. Listen in to learn more about common eye conditions, treatments, and what to expect at these specialist appointments:
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/eye-doctors-common-eye-conditions
3) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 73, Talkback 12.2 And Android 13 Beta 1
April 30th 2022 | In this episode we talk about all things new in the recently released Talkback 12.2 and our observations about it. In the next segment, we talk about all things new in the just released android 13 beta 1 for all supported Pixel phones. If you have a supported pixel, you can register to receive beta updates at https://www.google.com/android/beta. In our app of the week, we see how to uninstall Samsung Talkback or any system app without the need of a PC. Our podcast can be found on all popular podcasting platforms, on smart speakers and on YouTube at:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqp1JRJzrXhtLk1gtCxNlnAf
4) Eyes on Success 2218 Conditions for the Blind in Iran
May 4th 2022 | Aliasghar Assadi is a blind teacher of blind and visually impaired students in Iran. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Ali about conditions for the blind in Iran including the challenges of acquiring assistive technologies, how legal protections for the disabled are evolving, employment opportunities for the blind, and much more:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202218.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Intro to Facebook with Accessibility in Mind | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 5th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Thursday May 5th 2022 from 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM ET. We'll go over the basics of navigating Facebook with confidence on mobile and the web. Learn how to create posts including links and photos, navigate the News Feed, access important settings, handle messages and more. This hybrid event will take place online and in person. Please RSVP to chanceyfleet@nypl.org 📧️ to attend in person, or register for the Zoom:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAud-6prjIiHNLfBON7AHjHx7b0LE-PELaN?_x_zm_rtaid=O_T4jl2gQk-eJ1vIXaeqDw.1648421599270.e098cddc0d3e6ab8b653afe6c5833f53&_x_zm_rhtaid=371
2) Discover The All-In-One AT Support Extension — Helperbird | Network Of Assistive Technologists
May 6th 2022 | 10:30 AM PT, 11:30 AM MT, 12:30 PM CT, 1:30 PM ET, 5:30 PM GMT | Discover Helperbird and why you need to add it to your edtech tool bag. Join The Network of Assistive Technologists as we welcome Robert James Gabriel from Helperbird. Discover Helperbird and its literacy support tools to help individuals to succeed when working online or within Google files including Docs and Slides and PDFs. Some of the features include, Immersive Reader by Microsft, Text adjustments, Reader Mode, sticky notes, word prediction, natural text to speech and over 32 other features. Also get to ask its Founder, any questions you might have. Registration is now open:
https://sites.google.com/NOAT.ca/events/
3) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Beginners | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 7th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) 1:00 - 2:15 PM ET. If you're new to using Voiceover on the iPhone or if you're still working toward confidence, this discussion group is for you. We'll spend some time going over the theory of how screen readers work, gestures everyone needs to know, and some strategies for getting help. Then, we'll open it up for questions and networking. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
4) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Users: Beyond the Basics | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 7th 2022 | 11:30AM PT, 12:30AM, 1:30PM CT, 2:30PM ET, 6:30PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) from 2:30 - 4:00 PM ET. Talk about customizing gestures and settings, exploring new apps, choosing accessories, dealing with bugs, and whatever else comes to mind. This is a space for any and all Voiceover topics that go beyond the basics of using common gestures and built-in apps. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
5) 2022 National Coding Symposium | APH and Partners
May 9th 2022 through May 13th 2022 | The FREE, Virtual 2022 National Coding Symposium is Back, May 9-May 13, 2022. The FREE, Virtual 2022 National Coding Symposium is Back, May 9-May 13, 2022 Calling all future coders! APH and our partners are pleased to present the 2022 National Coding Symposium. This event connects parents, teachers, and students who are visually impaired with professionals in the coding industry from organizations such as LinkedIn, Vispero, Amazon, Apple, NVDA, Yahoo, HumanWare, Tetralogical, APH, and many more. Through a series of inspirational speakers, panel discussions, presentations, and question and answer sessions, attendees of all ages will be introduced to coding concepts and various pathways to careers in and/or related to coding. Awards and scholarship opportunities are also available! Learn more and register for the 2022 National Coding Symposium today!
https://aphconnectcenter.org/coding/?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=Paid+Traffic+%28Google+Ads%29&utm_campaign=2022_Coding_Symposium
6) The Web is Inherently Accessible | AccessU 2022 | TPGi
May 10th 2022 | 6:30AM PT, 7:30AM MT, 8:30AM CT, 9:30AM ET, 1:30PM GMT | Rachele DiTullio. Expand your accessibility knowledge by checking out some of the excellent sessions at AccessU. The schedule includes one day of pre-conference workshops followed by three days of live training and Q&A sessions. All times are US Central Time. Join TPGi's accessibility experts as they share their knowledge and present on some excellent topics.
https://knowbility.org/programs/accessu-2022
7) Using the JAWS Screen Reader to Create Better Digital Content | AccessU 2022 | TPGi
May 10th 2022 | 11:45AM PT, 12:45PM MT, 1:45PM CT, 2:45PM ET, 6:45PM GMT | Rachele DiTullio. Expand your accessibility knowledge by checking out some of the excellent sessions at AccessU. The schedule includes one day of pre-conference workshops followed by three days of live training and Q&A sessions. All times are US Central Time. Join TPGi's accessibility experts as they share their knowledge and present on some excellent topics.
https://knowbility.org/programs/accessu-2022
8) Hiring for Cognitive Diversity in Tech | AccessU 2022 | TPGi
May 10th 2022 | 1:30PM PT, 2:30PM MT, 3:30PM CT, 4:30PM ET, 8:30PM GMT | LE Silveus McNamara. Expand your accessibility knowledge by checking out some of the excellent sessions at AccessU. The schedule includes one day of pre-conference workshops followed by three days of live training and Q&A sessions. All times are US Central Time. Join TPGi's accessibility experts as they share their knowledge and present on some excellent topics.
https://knowbility.org/programs/accessu-2022
9) Introduction To Creating Accessible PDFs | TPGi
May 10th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenters: Evan Burnett, Document Accessibility Lead. 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. Join TPGi's Document Accessibility Lead, Evan Burnett for an introductory webinar that 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:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-may-10-at-12pm-et-introduction-to-creating-accessible-pdfs/
10) Save, Open & Browse Files with JAWS Using Speech or Braille (ACVREP CE Approved) | Access Ingenuity
May 11th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | In many cases, the ability to save, open, or browse for files within various Windows programs uses a very similar interface. The key is to understand this interface while working with JAWS using either a QWERTY keyboard or Focus braille display to help you become more efficient with the above tasks. Join Rachel Reeves, Marisa Church, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity with Joe McDaniel from Vispero to explore the Save As, Open With and Browse dialog boxes to understand how it works with JAWS and Windows. It is important to note that this presentation will benefit those who want to know how to manage files while using JAWS with either a QWERTY keyboard or a Focus braille display. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: Understand the difference between Save and Save As. Explain the three main questions in the Save As, Open With, and Browse dialog boxes and the default answers. Explore more efficient ways to work with the TreeView and ListView to locate files since just using shortcuts may not be available when browsing. Introduce key commands for working with JAWS using a QWERTY keyboard or Focus braille display. Meeting ID: 834 2828 1678 | Passcode: 911989 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83428281678#,,,,*911989# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose). Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83428281678?pwd=ZGZVQkFUUDlqRFpQQzB6NGFJd1p4UT09
11) Making Streaming Video Inclusive | AccessU 2022 | TPGi
May 11th 2022 | 6:30AM PT, 7:30AM MT, 8:30AM CT, 9:30AM ET, 1:30PM GMT | Carolina Crespo, Rachele DiTullio, Charu Panhdi. Expand your accessibility knowledge by checking out some of the excellent sessions at AccessU. The schedule includes one day of pre-conference workshops followed by three days of live training and Q&A sessions. All times are US Central Time. Join TPGi's accessibility experts as they share their knowledge and present on some excellent topics.
https://knowbility.org/programs/accessu-2022
12) Premium Services Using Alexa and Google | Technology User Group
May 14 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. Alexa and Google are adding premium services to their skill set. How do you subscribe to these services and use them?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
13) Introducing the TOPAZ Ultra (ACVREP CE Approved) | Access Ingenuity
May 18th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos from Access ingenuity and Joe McDaniel from Vispero to explore the features of the TOPAZ Ultra. The TOPAZ Ultra is the next generation of portable magnifiers. With its unique folding design, it's easy to take with you wherever you go. The TOPAZ Ultra offers the same reading comfort, ease of use, and functionality as a desktop video magnifier in a compact and portable design. TOPAZ Ultra is ideal for individuals who need a lightweight magnification solution in different locations - at home, in the office or classroom, and on the go. Use the TOPAZ Ultra right out of the box to magnify text and objects up close, in the distance, and even look at yourself with its convenient 3-in-1 camera. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: Features walkthrough of the TOPAZ Ultra. Differences from previous TOPAZ portable models. How the TOPAZ Ultra can be an effective reading tool. Meeting ID: 898 9510 6641 | Passcode: 641890 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,89895106641#,,,,*641890# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose). Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89895106641?pwd=ZUZyc2k3Nmh1b05Kai95Vm9NK1ZMdz09
14) Where in the World: Accessible Wayfinding and Mapping for iOS | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 18th 2022 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Wednesday May 18th 2022 from 3:00 - 4:30 PM ET. We'll explore accessible mainstream apps like Apple and Google Maps, which can give you walking or transit directions and help you discover points of interest in your city. Plus, we'll explore Microsoft Soundscape and GoodMaps, two apps built to give you precise, accessible guidance. This event will take place in person and online. To attend in person, please RSVP to ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ or register via Zoom to join online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMrcu2rrjkjGd0aaqdPZNDeB4iaC3L06-Lo
15) The National Transition Conversation 2022: APH Transition Hub & Pre ETS Program Field Updates
May 19th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | The National Transition Conversation 2022: APH Transition Hub & Pre ETS Program field updates Lisamaria Martinez, Richard Rueda. ACVREP credits available. Wondering how can APH Transition Hub support and increase the number of families that are directed to your summer residential program? Learn the latest innovations from APH CareerConnect. Join the National Transition Conversation as the APH ConnectCenter unveils the latest features of the Transition Hub project, and shares updates on CareerConnect. Just in time for summer programming across the United States, the National Transition Conversation will provide three mini forums spotlighting some of our partner transition programs and services. The second hour will provide a forum for practitioners, rehabilitation personnel, transition specialists and program administrators to share their own program successes and learn from other programs. Register here:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_A-h3iZRzSCitNrhTdOTrVQ
16) OrCam Free Demo Day | AdaptiVision
May 20th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | AdaptiVision is delighted to offer a free OrCam Demo Day on Friday, May 20th 2022. Attendees will have the chance to try out the latest OrCam assistive devices for low vision and blindness, including the OrCam MyEye and the OrCam Read Smart. These high-tech devices use artificial intelligence to convert visual information into audio, helping the user read text, recognize faces, distinguish colors and currency, and identify products. They are small, discreet, and easy to use. Notably, the Read Smart, a handheld reader designed for people with low vision, dyslexia, or other reading challenges, was named one of TIME Magazine's 100 Best Inventions of 2021. The demo day will be held at The Carroll Center for the Blind, one of the nation's preeminent vision rehabilitation centers. Event details: Date: Friday, May 20, 2022. Location: The Carroll Center for the Blind, 770 Centre Street, Newton, MA 02458. Time: 10:00 AM. Cost: Free. Pre-registration is required. Visit the link below to learn more and register:
https://lowvisionsource.com/orcam-demo-day/
17) A Webinar Of Anxiety: Developments In Accessibility For People With Anxiety And Panic Disorders | TPGi
May 24th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, XXX GMT | Presenter: Dr. David Swallow, Lead UX Consultant and Senior Accessibility Engineer. Awareness of the impact of online accessibility for people with anxiety and panic disorders has grown in recent years. High-pressure sales tactics and deceptive patterns have caught the attention of lawmakers. Banks have introduced new measures to support vulnerable customers. Social media companies have recognized the impact of their services on users' mental health. But has this made any difference? In this webinar, TPGi's Dr. David Swallow, Lead UX Consultant and Senior Accessibility Engineer will provide an update on developments in understanding this often-overlooked aspect of web accessibility. He'll explore aspects of user interface and user experience design that contribute to feelings of anxiety and panic. He'll also examine whether the web is still as anxiety-inducing as ever, highlight recent initiatives aimed at addressing anxiety-related issues, and share recommendations on what organizations can do to improve the user experience for people with anxiety and panic disorders:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-may-24-at-12pm-et-a-webinar-of-anxiety-developments-in-accessibility-for-people-with-anxiety-and-panic-disorders/
18) Basics of PowerPoint Remediation | Access Ingenuity
May 25th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Rachel Reeves from Access Ingenuity to learn how to make your PowerPoint file as accessible as possible for screen readers. Learning Outcomes: Highlight the use of Office formatting features and how to leverage them to create the most accessible end product possible. Explore the accessibility tools in PowerPoint such as the Reading Order pane and how to add alternative text. Go through the steps in creating a clean PowerPoint Accessibility Check. Meeting ID: 819 7420 5040 | Passcode: 255996 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,81974205040#,,,,*255996# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81974205040?pwd=WjI5ZUlrMm5aMkxhUXJEd3B4cGdPdz09
19) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Beginners | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 4th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) 1:00 - 2:15 PM ET. If you're new to using Voiceover on the iPhone or if you're still working toward confidence, this discussion group is for you. We'll spend some time going over the theory of how screen readers work, gestures everyone needs to know, and some strategies for getting help. Then, we'll open it up for questions and networking. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
20) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Users: Beyond the Basics | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 4th 2022 | 11:30AM PT, 12:30AM, 1:30PM CT, 2:30PM ET, 6:30PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) from 2:30 - 4:00 PM ET. Talk about customizing gestures and settings, exploring new apps, choosing accessories, dealing with bugs, and whatever else comes to mind. This is a space for any and all Voiceover topics that go beyond the basics of using common gestures and built-in apps. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
21) Using iOS Shortcuts | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 9th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Thursday June 9, 2:00 - 3:30 PM Eastern. Shortcuts can be used to automate tasks and save time. Join us to explore examples of effective shortcuts and learn to create your own. This event will take place in person and online. Email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to RSVP in person, or register to participate online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZElc-itrjgvHNDogsDg6wMe47pOluSIcXYI?_x_zm_rtaid=O_T4jl2gQk-eJ1vIXaeqDw.1648421599270.e098cddc0d3e6ab8b653afe6c5833f53&_x_zm_rhtaid=371
22) Gadgets and Apps for Safe Navigation | Technology User Group
June 11th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. There are many apps and devices that can aid a visually impaired traveler through the unknown. Avoid low-hanging obstacles and other obstructions. Which ones can you afford and which ones offer the best protection?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
23) Tactile Drawing from Still Life | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 11th 2022 | 10:30 AM PT, 11:30 AM MT, 12:30 PM CT, 1:30 PM ET, 5:30 PM GMT | Saturday June 11th 2022 from 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM Eastern In this hands-on workshop, we'll explore still life scenes of 3D objects and then create accessible tactile drawings. A variety of tactile media will be offered. This hands-on event will take place in person. Please email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to RSVP.
24) Intro to Google Translate | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 15th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Wednesday June 15th 2022 from 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM Eastern. Take a deep dive into this powerful cross-platform tool for translation. We'll explore how to translate from speech, text, handwriting and the camera; how to build a list of phrases you use often; and what you need to know about conversational and continuous translation. This event will take place in person and online. Email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to attend in person, or register to participate online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZElc-itrjgvHNDogsDg6wMe47pOluSIcXYI?_x_zm_rtaid=5aP3v6sNTtuCFyUfVDXxaQ.1648429186785.e6167c6b9ddb64d3c5052fc57b1d89aa&_x_zm_rhtaid=506
25) Eye Drop Webinar | Accessible Pharmacy
June 22nd 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | This webinar will have a live ASL interpreter, and closed captioning. If you are unable to attend, still be sure to register to receive access to the webinar audio and video via email afterwards. Please join us as we discuss tips and techniques for using eye drops as well as trends in eye drop refill legislation. Speakers will include experts from The Chicago Lighthouse and Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind. Questions? Please contact info@accessiblepharmacy.com 📧️. To read about the speakers and to register, click the link below:
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/eye-drop-webinar/
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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 Orcam Read
Listing Date: 5/5/2022 | Price: $1,100.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Barely 6 months old. Never used. For visually impaired. Version 9. Sells for $1,800. | Contact: Michael via Email at: miketmarano@icloud.com 📧️ or by phone at:(413) 786-1724 📱️. |
2) FOR SALE: Put A New 32 Cell Braille Display in Your Braillenote for Cheap
Listing Date: 4/28/2022 | Price: $925.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Is your Braillenote Touch Plus 32 or Touch 32 or Apex 32 not as perfect as it was when new? Then just replace it with a brand new perfect one for only $925. We also take trade-in Braille devices to further help you with the price for the new display. | Contact: Joe via Email at: newbraille32@gmail.com 📧️ or by phone at:(726) 777-9536 📱️. |
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: Pneuma Solutions
➜ Give the Gift of Equal Access!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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
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
➜ VisionAware Resources Including the Information and Referral
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/
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Start Your Coding Journey Today with APH's Road to Code!
Want to learn more about coding but don't know where to start? Look no further! APH's Road to Code provides a roadmap for coding progression through all our fun and engaging coding products.
https://bit.ly/3HueRfI
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 Daisy Player and Entertainment System, The Evo 12
We are pleased to announce the availability of our new daisy player and entertainment system, the Evo 12. It utilizes the highly listenable Sally and Joey voices and reads Bookshare as well as epub, word and text documents. It does not accept either BARD or Audible files. The Evo now supports the "abc" method for entering text, along with its most exciting new feature, stereo recording from the internal microphone as well as from the Internet radio and FM radio. For better reception, a flexible antenna has been added. Another unique and very popular feature makes possible basic editing of recorded files. The unit also contains a memo recorder, voice reminders and timers, a color reader, Internet radio, and podcatcher to which your own entries can be added to the player database. The introductory price through July 31st is $289.00. The player is available both from GuideLights and Gadgets and from our collaborative partner, Mystic Access. For additional information, contact Barry Scheur at (617) 969-7500 📱️ or bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.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
➜ 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
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
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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
The DannyBoy Portable Stand holds your Smart Phone stationary so it's camera can view items and documents clearly providing stability for excellent recognition & clarity. Take perfect pictures and scan images. Read documents quickly and easily. Great for anyone with motor disabilities, too! Made with the Blind In Mind! Lightweight & Portable. Ready To Use or Collapses In Seconds. Read All About the DannyBoy Portable Stand at DannyBoy.com in BlindMiceMegaMall.com at:
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
➜ Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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.
Your Name Here
0 of 12 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 0 of 12 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
4.) Neil Jarvis
Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, April 28, 2022 - Volume 856
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.
Subscribers: 7,211 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: The FREE, Virtual 2022 National Coding Symposium is Back, May 9-May 13, 2022
The FREE, Virtual 2022 National Coding Symposium is Back, May 9-May 13, 2022
Calling all future coders! APH and our partners are pleased to present the 2022 National Coding Symposium. This event connects parents, teachers, and students who are visually impaired with professionals in the coding industry from organizations such as LinkedIn, Vispero, Amazon, Apple, NVDA, Yahoo, HumanWare, Tetralogical, APH, and many more. Through a series of inspirational speakers, panel discussions, presentations, and question and answer sessions, attendees of all ages will be introduced to coding concepts and various pathways to careers in and/or related to coding. Awards and scholarship opportunities are also available! Learn more and register for the 2022 National Coding Symposium today!
https://aphconnectcenter.org/coding/?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=Paid+Traffic+%28Google+Ads%29&utm_campaign=2022_Coding_Symposium
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Enhancements In JAWS 2022.2204.20 | April 2022 (12.2% of all clicks.)
Enhancements for JAWS and Fusion are out. Changes to navigation quick keys and other web enhancements are among the changes:
https://support.freedomscientific.com/downloads/jaws/JAWSWhatsNew#latest
B.) New Sensor Technology Helps Blind And Visually Impaired Pedestrians Avoid Hazards (11% of all clicks.)
Cool Blind Tech brings us a story about a technology that would make navigating more accurate than GPS:
https://coolblindtech.com/new-sensor-technology-helps-blind-and-visually-impaired-pedestrians-avoid-hazards/
C.) Accessible Fitness App (6.4% of all clicks.)
Tyler Merren, multi-Paralympian, has developed an accessible fitness app known as ReVision. This app is your personal trainer, it describes all the moves when doing any exercise. It can be found and installed on Apple or Android using these links:
https://apps.apple.com/in/app/revision-fitness/id1561742182
D.) BARD Update (5.3% of all clicks.)
The National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled BARD app has been updated. The ability to sort and search Wish List and Previous Downloads is among the improvements:
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/bard-mobile/id705229586
E.) Tech Designed To Aid Visually Impaired Could Benefit From Human-AI Collaboration (4.7% of all clicks.)
Remote sighted assistance (RSA) technology — which connects visually impaired individuals with human agents through a live video call on their smartphones — helps people with low or no vision navigate tasks that require sight. But what happens when existing computer vision technology doesn't fully support an agent in fulfilling certain requests, such as reading instructions on a medicine bottle or recognizing flight information on an airport's digital screen?
https://www.psu.edu/news/information-sciences-and-technology/story/tech-designed-aid-visually-impaired-could-benefit-human/
2) JAWS for Windows with Microsoft Teams Power Tip: Filtering by Unread Chats
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/73.html
3) Send to Braille 2.0 Released
The American Printing House for the Blind is pleased to announce the release of an update to its popular Send to Braille application. This is a simple tool which adds options to the right click "Send to" menu to translate documents into braille and vice-versa:
https://www.braillists.org/uncategorised/send-to-braille-2-0-released/
4) Automatic Creation Of Border / Separator Lines In MS-Word: Stopping It / Resuming It If You've Previously Stopped It | Brian Vogel: Office-Accessibility
There was a recent question on the NVDA Chat Subgroup about the automatic creation of what Word calls border lines, and I often call separator lines, if you type three of certain characters in a row. Three hyphens in a row followed by enter results in a thin solid border line across the width of the page. Three equal signs rather than hyphens creates a double border line. Some people want to stop word from doing this rather than hitting Undo to reverse the creation when it occurs. A quick web search on "change hyphens to line" turns up tons of information on this, but this particular page is both concise and thorough: Office Watch: Making lines in Word and stopping them! It does not, of course, address what a screen reader may, or may not, announce when said border lines are encountered.
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/1949
5) Google's Accessibility Crackdown Bans Call-Recording Apps From The Play Store
Google abandoned plans for a call-recording API in 2020, now it bans workarounds?
https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2022/04/googles-accessibility-crackdown-bans-call-recording-apps-from-the-play-store/
6) How To Adjust The iPhone's Screen For Color Blindness
Apple gave the iPhone several screen controls, including specific filters that can make colors easier to distinguish for users with color blindness:
https://screenrant.com/adjust-apple-iphones-screen-color-blindness/
7) Blind Hockey Players Need Loud And Strong Pucks. How SLU Engineers Are Building Better Ones
Borah and other players are working with engineers at St. Louis University to create and test a better hockey puck for blind players — a deceptively complicated engineering problem:
https://news.stlpublicradio.org/health-science-environment/2022-04-20/blind-hockey-players-need-loud-and-strong-pucks-how-slu-engineers-are-building-better-ones
8) Spacefelt - A New Assistive Technology Innovation For People With Visual Impairment
I'm Vivian from Grailmaker Innovations. Our startup has developed Spacefelt, a tagging and labelling app for persons with visual impairment. Using it, the user can tag, label and identify objects around them independently. The idea of Spacefelt came up when my friend, Aishwarya, who is a visually impaired tactile artist wanted some technology that will help her identify colors:
https://newzhook.com/story/workshop-on-spacefelt-a-new-assistive-technology-innovation-for-people-with-visual-impairment/
9) 10 Popular Smartphone Myths That Aren't True
Doing these 10 things won't do your smartphone any good:
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/10-popular-smartphone-myths-that-arent-true/
10) WordPress 6.0 Features Numerous Accessibility Improvements
WordPress announces that version 6.0 features numerous accessibility improvements that bring it closer to WCAG 2.0 AA compliance:
https://www.searchenginejournal.com/wordpress-6-0-accessibility/447172/
11) InventHelp Inventors Develop Archery Product for Visually-Impaired Individuals (DNV-315)
The invention provides an innovative new product for target archers with visual impairments. In doing so, it offers an improved way to point and fire an arrow at the target. As a result, it enables the user to engage in an activity that might otherwise be difficult or impossible and it could provide a sense of independence and self-reliance. The invention features a lightweight and compact design that is easy to use so it is ideal for visually-impaired individuals. Additionally, it is producible in design variations:
https://www.wfmz.com/news/pr_newswire/pr_newswire_entertainment/inventhelp-inventors-develop-archery-product-for-visually-impaired-individuals-dnv-315/article_3d322189-7069-529c-aa60-8c5746e33223.html
12) Twitter: Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Accessibility Q1 2022: Our Global Approach
We know that Twitter has been in the news lately. Here is a blog post Twitter has published on their accessibility and inclusion efforts from Q1 2022:
https://blog.twitter.com/en_us/topics/company/2022/inclusion-diversity-equity-accessibility-report-our-global-approach-April-2022
13) Add Or Get Subtitle Editor Access In YouTube Studio
This will make it easier for creators to add subtitles and captions for their YouTube videos:
https://support.google.com/youtube/answer/11983512?hl=en
14) TeamViewer Scripts for JAWS
Brian Hartgen has released Jaws scripts for TeamViewer, a popular remote desktop solution:
http://www.hartgen.org/teamviewer
15) Changeling's Guide To Mastodon For Screen Reader Users
This guide is a work in progress but purports to introduce screen reader users to Mastodon:
https://www.starshipchangeling.net/mastodon/
16) Unique Job Site Can Help Neurodivergent People Find Meaningful Work - While Being Themselves
Fifty tech companies, including Microsoft, have launched a job portal specifically for neurodivergent workers and employers:
https://news.microsoft.com/features/unique-job-site-can-help-neurodivergent-people-find-meaningful-work-while-being-themselves/
17) Stardew Valley Accessibility Mod Helps Visually Impaired Players Enjoy The Farming Sim
A blind Stardew Valley player has shared how they are able to play the game and it's all thanks to an accessibility mod:
https://www.gamesradar.com/stardew-valley-accessibility-mod-helps-visually-impaired-players-enjoy-the-farming-sim/
18) New Sensor Technology Helps Blind And Visually Impaired Pedestrians Avoid Hazards
A new patented technology from Intelligent Material Solutions, Inc. is designed to help pedestrians who are blind and visually impaired navigate busy sidewalks and avoid sidewalk hazards. The sensor tech uses a cooperative guidance system to determine the pedestrians' precise geolocation and guide them to public transportation, retail entrances, sidewalk exits and other locations:
https://coolblindtech.com/new-sensor-technology-helps-blind-and-visually-impaired-pedestrians-avoid-hazards/
19) How to Remap Your Keyboard | PC Mag
If you're looking to change key functions on your computer's keyboard in Windows, these three methods can help:
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/remap-your-keyboard
20) Microsoft Mobile App Is Making Bus Stops More Accessible
A team at Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye and Ear, led by Associate Professor Gang Luo, has been focusing on vision assistive technology for over a decade, running research studies on technology development, intervention, evaluation, and human factors in mobility for people who are blind or low vision. While transit agencies have a mandate to improve accessibility to public transportation as part of the Americans with Disability Act, opportunities exist to improve existing technologies and further remove barriers. Developing a cost-effective tool was paramount for the team in their aim to make bus stops more accessible and easily identifiable to all:
https://coolblindtech.com/microsoft-mobile-app-is-making-bus-stops-more-accessible/
21) AI Could Improve Tech Designed to Aid the Visually Impaired
Challenges with remote sighted assistance technology could be better addressed by humans and artificial intelligence working together, a new study shows:
https://healthitanalytics.com/news/ai-could-improve-tech-designed-to-aid-the-visually-impaired
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Beyond WCAG: Losing Spoons Online
Have you heard of Christine Miserandino's spoon theory? Spoon theory is a metaphor in which one's physical and mental capacity for each day is represented by a fixed number of spoons that gets replenished each day. Some people are given more spoons than others, and each time you need to expend mental or physical energy as part of your day, that removes one (or more than one) of your spoons. And once you reach zero spoons, that means that you've exhausted your mental and physical capacity for the day — and there's no more that you can do. Every morning, most [neuro]typical people wake up with infinite spoons. They don't even think of spoons as a resource because they almost never run out. They can easily choose to do this or that without risking much other than time consumption. Sure, they get tired by the end of a full day, but generally they have enough spoons to do all the normal things. It's a gift they take for granted. Those with chronic pain or serious illness or certain types of mental illness, like depression, only get twelve or twenty spoons a day. Each activity, even small things like getting dressed or making breakfast, takes a spoon. Careful choices must be made about how the spoons are spent; otherwise, they will be gone before the day is through. Or worse. A bad spoon-management choice might leave them without spoons for several days:
https://www.tpgi.com/beyond-wcag-losing-spoons-online/
2) Empathetic Design Is Redefining Accessibility For People With Disabilities And Special Needs-And A Growing Number Of Major Companies Are Adopting It
When Raja Rajamannar was a kid, his grandmother, who lived with his family in India, became blind. "My sister and I had to help her navigate every day," he says. "I really felt for her." Still, he acknowledges, he couldn't truly know his grandmother's experience moving around the world after losing sight. Now, Rajamannar works as chief marketing and communications officer and president, Healthcare business at Mastercard. In 2019, he was approached by a member of the company's finance team to create a card specifically for people who are blind and visually impaired. "That was immediately a spark," says Rajamannar:
https://fortune.com/2022/04/26/empathetic-design-redefining-accessibility-disabled-special-needs-users-mastercard-amazon/
3) The Business Case For Accessibility
In an ideal world, products and services would be designed so that every person experienced them in an equitable and comparable way. However, sometimes it is necessary to justify to stakeholders why the proper time, money, and resources need to be dedicated to embed accessible practices:
https://tetralogical.com/blog/2022/04/05/business-case-for-accessibility/
4) The True Impact Of Accessibility
The Life of a Blind Girl Blog discusses positive aspects of accessibility:
https://lifeofablindgirl.com/2022/04/10/the-true-impact-of-accessibility/
5) Coachella 2022: Accessible Festivals Assists Over 700 Festivalgoers During Weekend 1
This company seeks to make concerts and festivals more accessible:
https://www.desertsun.com/story/life/entertainment/music/coachella/2022/04/19/coachella-2022-accessible-festivals-assists-over-700-festivalgoers/7368149001/
6) The Most Accessible Best of Beauty Award-Winning Products for People Who Are Blind or Have Low Vision
This list is compiled by Allure:
https://www.allure.com/gallery/best-of-beauty-award-winners-accessible-blind-low-vision
7) Virtual Assistants: A Help Or Hindrance For People With Disabilities?
Laura Moya doesn't like technology very much. In fact, within just a few minutes of talking to her, she'll tell you just how inaccessible it is for anyone with a disability. But Laura isn't letting that stop her. She's currently working on her thesis at the University of Zaragoza in north-eastern Spain. While the digital world has the potential to greatly improve the lives of people with disabilities, she feels there's a long way to go before it's completely accessible and inclusive:
https://www.techadvisor.com/news/tech-industry/smart-speakers-technology-accessibility-3815241/
8) The Journey Forward: Impact of COVID-19 on Blind, Low Vision, and Deafblind U.S. Adults
Though COVID-19 restrictions have intermittently eased and many Americans are beginning to venture out to shop, socialize, and work, we know that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on all our lives. In July and August 2021, AFB conducted the Journey Forward survey of U.S. adults who are blind, low vision, or deafblind. We gathered data to help us understand the short-term and long-term impact of the pandemic on those with vision loss and learn from their experiences so we can address both COVID-created and systemic issues impacting the lives of those who are blind or have low vision:
https://www.afb.org/research-and-initiatives/covid-19-research/journey-forward?N422JAN3EM1=&emci=302c0fe4-b1c0-ec11-997e-281878b83d8a&emdi=6c2d3745-55c2-ec11-997e-281878b83d8a&ceid=9602623
9) American Foundation for the Blind to Present Its Highest Honors at Annual Conference
The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) will recognize individuals who have made superb contributions to improving the lives of people who are blind or visually impaired with the presentations of the Migel Medal, the Llura Gund Leadership Award, and the Corinne Kirchner Research Award:
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/american-foundation-for-the-blind-to-present-its-highest-honors-at-annual-conference-301532410.html
10) UserWay Releases Version 4.0 of its AI-Powered Accessibility Solution
The cloud-based accessibility solution now includes instant language translations in addition to a personalized user interface:
https://www.prnewswire.com/il/news-releases/userway-releases-version-4-0-of-its-ai-powered-accessibility-solution-301533116.html
11) The Most Accessible Best of Beauty Award-Winning Products for People Who Are Blind or Have Low Vision
We have a ways to go before products are universally accessible, but these makeup, skin-care, and hair products show we're moving in the right direction:
https://www.allure.com/gallery/best-of-beauty-award-winners-accessible-blind-low-vision
12) Physics Professor Creates Planetarium Show For Georgia Academy For The Blind Students
Visually impaired students from the Georgia Academy for the Blind recently experienced a planetarium show designed especially for them. Instead of looking up at stars projected on a dome, they each held a model of a constellation in their hands. Dr. Matt Marone, associate professor of physics in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Mercer University, created the models of the Orion constellation using a 3D printer, keeping the needs of the visually impaired in mind:
https://den.mercer.edu/physics-professor-creates-planetarium-show-for-georgia-academy-for-the-blind-students/
13) First Recorded Congenitally Blind Person With Synesthesia Feels Times As Textures
Synesthesia has been found in a congenitally blind person for the first time — or at least the first time on record. There are many different types of synesthesia, but almost all of them — especially the most famous ones — involve sight in some way. The composer Franz Liszt once notably asked his orchestra to play pieces "a little bluer," for example, referring not to the musical style but the literal color blue, while Nobel prize-winning physicist Richard Feynman would read complicated math equations in glorious technicolor. But that doesn't mean the condition requires sight, as a new case study in the journal Neuropsychologia has now proven. The study authors say that their data "fill an important void in the current knowledge on synesthesia and shed light on the mechanisms behind sensory crosstalk in the human mind."
https://www.iflscience.com/brain/first-recorded-congenitally-blind-person-with-synesthesia-feels-times-as-textures/
14) Options And Opportunities For Those Who Are Blind Or Deafblind
People with any disability have an unemployment rate more than twice that of those without a disability. Only around one-third of working-age adults with significant vision loss is employed between the ages of 21 and 64, according to the EEOC. "The largest barrier is societal/employer attitudes and misconceptions about the capabilities of individuals who are blind or DeafBlind," says George Abbott, CEO and president at The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc., the single largest U.S. employer of DeafBlind employees and the largest employer west of the Mississippi of people who are blind:
https://www.seattletimes.com/sponsored/options-and-opportunities-for-those-who-are-blind-or-deafblind/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 72, Let's Talk About That Battery
April 23rd 2022 | We demo battery management on Android and tell you what to do If you have problems receiving app notifications. We have another mid-week episode a demo that will help all the musicians on android, amazing slow downer. Rod Maccoux tells us how he got started with Android. We bring another highlights episode from Talkback. Our podcast can be found on all popular podcasting platforms, on smart speakers and on YouTube at:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqqwFax9qHeOu4IczYW-SuUy
2) Eyes on Success 2217 Encore of 1715 Audio Book Narrator
April 27th 2022 | You've probably heard her voice on a Talking Book from the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped. Martha Harmon Pardee has narrated over 3,000 books for the NLS. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with her about the process of recording audio books, notable moments in her career, and what else she does as a professional voice artist:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202217.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) The LyriQ Reading Machine | Free Public Event | Mystic Access
April 28th 2022 | 5:30 PM PT, 6:30 PM MT, 7:30 PM CT, 8:30 PM ET, 12:30 AM, 4/29 GMT | In a recent podcast episode, we discussed the LyriQ, a compact, fast and accurate reading machine we first learned about at CSUN. We were so impressed that we bought one upon returning home, and use it every single day. Why do two technology geeks who use iOS, Android, and Fire OS, and have access to several scanning apps love this standalone machine so much? Ah, there are so many reasons! The podcast generated so much interest that we decided to make the LyriQ the topic of our April event. We'll take a deep dive, orient you to the device, use it to read a variety of documents, and show you its features, such as reading columns, changing voices, batch scanning, and more. We know a device like this is a considered investment, so wanted to share more about it and answer your questions. Note that this is a public event, so registration is required. You'll be asked for your name, email address, and to answer a specific question about the event. Press Enter on the Register link to submit the form. We'll then manually approve your registration, after which you'll receive all the joining info by email. We're sorry to have to start requiring registration for public events, but after the nightmare of two Zoom bombs during our last public event in November, we see no choice. Thanks for your understanding. Learn about the LyriQ with us on Thursday, April 28, at 8:30 PM ET. Please activate this link to register for the event. we look forward to sharing with you!
https://www.mysticaccess.com/news/free-public-event-for-april-discover-the-lyriq-reading-machine/
2) What Does it Meme?: Understanding and Sharing Visual Culture | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 2nd 2022 | 3PM PT, 4PM MT, 5PM CT, 6PM ET, 10PM GMT | Monday May 2, 6:00 - 7:30 PM Eastern
Memes are a rich part of Internet culture but, usually, they're not accessible to blind and low-vision people. Join us as we dive into the meaning and evolution of memes, and explore how concise, evocative description can create equity of access in digital spaces. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/j/87873411950?pwd=c1gwWTdQV0V1aG1ScG50OTVLUVFudz09#success
3) The Victor Reader Trek Webinar: New Maps, Efficient Traveling and More!
May 2nd 2022 | 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12AM, 5/3 GMT | Don't miss this upcoming webinar on Monday, May 2 at 8 PM (EST), where Peter Tucic and Mathieu Paquette will be discussing the Victor Reader Trek's new maps, and how to utilize the device to increase your awareness and gain efficiency when traveling.
https://humanware.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Xa1-2qkoRWapuykMRKxTvg
4) American Foundation for the Blind Leadership Conference (AFBLC)
May 2nd 2022 through May3rd 2022 | Hyatt Regency Arlington, Virginia. Join us for the American Foundation for the Blind's Leadership Conference (AFBLC), which will take place at the Hyatt Regency, Arlington, Virginia this year. We aim to create a world of no limits for people who are blind. We are committed to putting inclusion to work, which will be a major emphasis of our 2022 AFBLC. AFBLC provides a forum in which leaders from a variety of fields-including research, technology, education, corporations, health and government organizations — have the opportunity to expand their knowledge of best practices, refine leadership skills, identify inclusion practices that work, and share concerns and strategies. The Migel Medal, the highest honor in the blindness field, as well as the Corinne Kirchner Research Award and the newly established Llura Gund Leadership Award will be presented at the AFB Leadership Conference. We look forward to gathering with you to explore the conference themes of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility:
https://www.afb.org/about-afb/events-and-awards/afblc2022?sourceid=&ms=N422JAN2EM3LC&emci=613b769b-b58e-ec11-a507-281878b83d8a&emdi=e828bc7c-418f-ec11-a507-281878b83d8a&ceid=8505425
5) Envision Glasses: Exploring Additional Features & Answering Questions | Access Ingenuity
May 4th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Did you miss previous presentations on the new Envision glasses but would like an opportunity to learn about them? Perhaps you previously attended, but you want to explore their capabilities again or learn about the latest features. Join Ian Ramos and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity as we look at the exciting new Envision glasses. Envision glasses use the cutting-edge Google Glasses platform as a way for visually impaired users 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. 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 we will introduce new features. Last time the focus was Read and Call features, and this one will primarily focus on Identify and Find features and the various settings. Learning Outcomes: 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 Envision glasses presentation. Answer your additional questions. Meeting ID: 875 9380 4702 | Passcode: 205319 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,87593804702#,,,,*205319# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87593804702?pwd=ZVVLVGxHd3hvd2ZkWFBhVWdRWUdqUT09
6) Intro to Facebook with Accessibility in Mind | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 5th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Thursday May 5th 2022 from 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM ET. We'll go over the basics of navigating Facebook with confidence on mobile and the web. Learn how to create posts including links and photos, navigate the News Feed, access important settings, handle messages and more. This hybrid event will take place online and in person. Please RSVP to chanceyfleet@nypl.org 📧️ to attend in person, or register for the Zoom:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAud-6prjIiHNLfBON7AHjHx7b0LE-PELaN?_x_zm_rtaid=O_T4jl2gQk-eJ1vIXaeqDw.1648421599270.e098cddc0d3e6ab8b653afe6c5833f53&_x_zm_rhtaid=371
7) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Beginners | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 7th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) 1:00 - 2:15 PM ET. If you're new to using Voiceover on the iPhone or if you're still working toward confidence, this discussion group is for you. We'll spend some time going over the theory of how screen readers work, gestures everyone needs to know, and some strategies for getting help. Then, we'll open it up for questions and networking. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
8) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Users: Beyond the Basics | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 7th 2022 | 11:30AM PT, 12:30AM, 1:30PM CT, 2:30PM ET, 6:30PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) from 2:30 - 4:00 PM ET. Talk about customizing gestures and settings, exploring new apps, choosing accessories, dealing with bugs, and whatever else comes to mind. This is a space for any and all Voiceover topics that go beyond the basics of using common gestures and built-in apps. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
9) 2022 National Coding Symposium | APH and Partners
May 9th 2022 through May 13th 2022 | The FREE, Virtual 2022 National Coding Symposium is Back, May 9-May 13, 2022. The FREE, Virtual 2022 National Coding Symposium is Back, May 9-May 13, 2022 Calling all future coders! APH and our partners are pleased to present the 2022 National Coding Symposium. This event connects parents, teachers, and students who are visually impaired with professionals in the coding industry from organizations such as LinkedIn, Vispero, Amazon, Apple, NVDA, Yahoo, HumanWare, Tetralogical, APH, and many more. Through a series of inspirational speakers, panel discussions, presentations, and question and answer sessions, attendees of all ages will be introduced to coding concepts and various pathways to careers in and/or related to coding. Awards and scholarship opportunities are also available! Learn more and register for the 2022 National Coding Symposium today!
https://aphconnectcenter.org/coding/?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=Paid+Traffic+%28Google+Ads%29&utm_campaign=2022_Coding_Symposium
10) The Web is Inherently Accessible | AccessU 2022 | TPGi
May 10th 2022 | 6:30AM PT, 7:30AM MT, 8:30AM CT, 9:30AM ET, 1:30PM GMT | Rachele DiTullio. Expand your accessibility knowledge by checking out some of the excellent sessions at AccessU. The schedule includes one day of pre-conference workshops followed by three days of live training and Q&A sessions. All times are US Central Time. Join TPGi's accessibility experts as they share their knowledge and present on some excellent topics.
https://knowbility.org/programs/accessu-2022
11) Using the JAWS Screen Reader to Create Better Digital Content | AccessU 2022 | TPGi
May 10th 2022 | 11:45AM PT, 12:45PM MT, 1:45PM CT, 2:45PM ET, 6:45PM GMT | Rachele DiTullio. Expand your accessibility knowledge by checking out some of the excellent sessions at AccessU. The schedule includes one day of pre-conference workshops followed by three days of live training and Q&A sessions. All times are US Central Time. Join TPGi's accessibility experts as they share their knowledge and present on some excellent topics.
https://knowbility.org/programs/accessu-2022
12) Hiring for Cognitive Diversity in Tech | AccessU 2022 | TPGi
May 10th 2022 | 1:30PM PT, 2:30PM MT, 3:30PM CT, 4:30PM ET, 8:30PM GMT | LE Silveus McNamara. Expand your accessibility knowledge by checking out some of the excellent sessions at AccessU. The schedule includes one day of pre-conference workshops followed by three days of live training and Q&A sessions. All times are US Central Time. Join TPGi's accessibility experts as they share their knowledge and present on some excellent topics.
https://knowbility.org/programs/accessu-2022
13) Introduction To Creating Accessible PDFs | TPGi
May 10th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenters: Evan Burnett, Document Accessibility Lead. 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. Join TPGi's Document Accessibility Lead, Evan Burnett for an introductory webinar that 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:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-may-10-at-12pm-et-introduction-to-creating-accessible-pdfs/
14) Save, Open & Browse Files with JAWS Using Speech or Braille (ACVREP CE Approved) | Access Ingenuity
May 11th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | In many cases, the ability to save, open, or browse for files within various Windows programs uses a very similar interface. The key is to understand this interface while working with JAWS using either a QWERTY keyboard or Focus braille display to help you become more efficient with the above tasks. Join Rachel Reeves, Marisa Church, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity with Joe McDaniel from Vispero to explore the Save As, Open With and Browse dialog boxes to understand how it works with JAWS and Windows. It is important to note that this presentation will benefit those who want to know how to manage files while using JAWS with either a QWERTY keyboard or a Focus braille display. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: Understand the difference between Save and Save As. Explain the three main questions in the Save As, Open With, and Browse dialog boxes and the default answers. Explore more efficient ways to work with the TreeView and ListView to locate files since just using shortcuts may not be available when browsing. Introduce key commands for working with JAWS using a QWERTY keyboard or Focus braille display. Meeting ID: 834 2828 1678 | Passcode: 911989 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83428281678#,,,,*911989# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose). Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83428281678?pwd=ZGZVQkFUUDlqRFpQQzB6NGFJd1p4UT09
15) Making Streaming Video Inclusive | AccessU 2022 | TPGi
May 11th 2022 | 6:30AM PT, 7:30AM MT, 8:30AM CT, 9:30AM ET, 1:30PM GMT | Carolina Crespo, Rachele DiTullio, Charu Panhdi. Expand your accessibility knowledge by checking out some of the excellent sessions at AccessU. The schedule includes one day of pre-conference workshops followed by three days of live training and Q&A sessions. All times are US Central Time. Join TPGi's accessibility experts as they share their knowledge and present on some excellent topics.
https://knowbility.org/programs/accessu-2022
16) Premium Services Using Alexa and Google | Technology User Group
May 14 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. Alexa and Google are adding premium services to their skill set. How do you subscribe to these services and use them?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
17) Introducing the TOPAZ Ultra (ACVREP CE Approved) | Access Ingenuity
May 18th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos from Access ingenuity and Joe McDaniel from Vispero to explore the features of the TOPAZ Ultra. The TOPAZ Ultra is the next generation of portable magnifiers. With its unique folding design, it's easy to take with you wherever you go. The TOPAZ Ultra offers the same reading comfort, ease of use, and functionality as a desktop video magnifier in a compact and portable design. TOPAZ Ultra is ideal for individuals who need a lightweight magnification solution in different locations - at home, in the office or classroom, and on the go. Use the TOPAZ Ultra right out of the box to magnify text and objects up close, in the distance, and even look at yourself with its convenient 3-in-1 camera. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: Features walkthrough of the TOPAZ Ultra. Differences from previous TOPAZ portable models. How the TOPAZ Ultra can be an effective reading tool. Meeting ID: 898 9510 6641 | Passcode: 641890 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,89895106641#,,,,*641890# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose). Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89895106641?pwd=ZUZyc2k3Nmh1b05Kai95Vm9NK1ZMdz09
18) Where in the World: Accessible Wayfinding and Mapping for iOS | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 18th 2022 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Wednesday May 18th 2022 from 3:00 - 4:30 PM ET. We'll explore accessible mainstream apps like Apple and Google Maps, which can give you walking or transit directions and help you discover points of interest in your city. Plus, we'll explore Microsoft Soundscape and GoodMaps, two apps built to give you precise, accessible guidance. This event will take place in person and online. To attend in person, please RSVP to ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ or register via Zoom to join online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMrcu2rrjkjGd0aaqdPZNDeB4iaC3L06-Lo
19) The National Transition Conversation 2022: APH Transition Hub & Pre ETS Program Field Updates
May 19th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | The National Transition Conversation 2022: APH Transition Hub & Pre ETS Program field updates Lisamaria Martinez, Richard Rueda. ACVREP credits available. Wondering how can APH Transition Hub support and increase the number of families that are directed to your summer residential program? Learn the latest innovations from APH CareerConnect. Join the National Transition Conversation as the APH ConnectCenter unveils the latest features of the Transition Hub project, and shares updates on CareerConnect. Just in time for summer programming across the United States, the National Transition Conversation will provide three mini forums spotlighting some of our partner transition programs and services. The second hour will provide a forum for practitioners, rehabilitation personnel, transition specialists and program administrators to share their own program successes and learn from other programs. Register here:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_A-h3iZRzSCitNrhTdOTrVQ
20) OrCam Free Demo Day | AdaptiVision
May 20th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | AdaptiVision is delighted to offer a free OrCam Demo Day on Friday, May 20th 2022. Attendees will have the chance to try out the latest OrCam assistive devices for low vision and blindness, including the OrCam MyEye and the OrCam Read Smart. These high-tech devices use artificial intelligence to convert visual information into audio, helping the user read text, recognize faces, distinguish colors and currency, and identify products. They are small, discreet, and easy to use. Notably, the Read Smart, a handheld reader designed for people with low vision, dyslexia, or other reading challenges, was named one of TIME Magazine's 100 Best Inventions of 2021. The demo day will be held at The Carroll Center for the Blind, one of the nation's preeminent vision rehabilitation centers. Event details: Date: Friday, May 20, 2022. Location: The Carroll Center for the Blind, 770 Centre Street, Newton, MA 02458. Time: 10:00 AM. Cost: Free. Pre-registration is required. Visit the link below to learn more and register:
https://lowvisionsource.com/orcam-demo-day/
21) A Webinar Of Anxiety: Developments In Accessibility For People With Anxiety And Panic Disorders | TPGi
May 24th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, XXX GMT | Presenter: Dr. David Swallow, Lead UX Consultant and Senior Accessibility Engineer. Awareness of the impact of online accessibility for people with anxiety and panic disorders has grown in recent years. High-pressure sales tactics and deceptive patterns have caught the attention of lawmakers. Banks have introduced new measures to support vulnerable customers. Social media companies have recognized the impact of their services on users' mental health. But has this made any difference? In this webinar, TPGi's Dr. David Swallow, Lead UX Consultant and Senior Accessibility Engineer will provide an update on developments in understanding this often-overlooked aspect of web accessibility. He'll explore aspects of user interface and user experience design that contribute to feelings of anxiety and panic. He'll also examine whether the web is still as anxiety-inducing as ever, highlight recent initiatives aimed at addressing anxiety-related issues, and share recommendations on what organizations can do to improve the user experience for people with anxiety and panic disorders:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-may-24-at-12pm-et-a-webinar-of-anxiety-developments-in-accessibility-for-people-with-anxiety-and-panic-disorders/
22) Basics of PowerPoint Remediation | Access Ingenuity
May 25th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Rachel Reeves from Access Ingenuity to learn how to make your PowerPoint file as accessible as possible for screen readers. Learning Outcomes: Highlight the use of Office formatting features and how to leverage them to create the most accessible end product possible. Explore the accessibility tools in PowerPoint such as the Reading Order pane and how to add alternative text. Go through the steps in creating a clean PowerPoint Accessibility Check. Meeting ID: 819 7420 5040 | Passcode: 255996 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,81974205040#,,,,*255996# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81974205040?pwd=WjI5ZUlrMm5aMkxhUXJEd3B4cGdPdz09
23) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Beginners | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 4th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) 1:00 - 2:15 PM ET. If you're new to using Voiceover on the iPhone or if you're still working toward confidence, this discussion group is for you. We'll spend some time going over the theory of how screen readers work, gestures everyone needs to know, and some strategies for getting help. Then, we'll open it up for questions and networking. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
24) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Users: Beyond the Basics | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 4th 2022 | 11:30AM PT, 12:30AM, 1:30PM CT, 2:30PM ET, 6:30PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) from 2:30 - 4:00 PM ET. Talk about customizing gestures and settings, exploring new apps, choosing accessories, dealing with bugs, and whatever else comes to mind. This is a space for any and all Voiceover topics that go beyond the basics of using common gestures and built-in apps. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
25) Using iOS Shortcuts | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 9th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Thursday June 9, 2:00 - 3:30 PM Eastern. Shortcuts can be used to automate tasks and save time. Join us to explore examples of effective shortcuts and learn to create your own. This event will take place in person and online. Email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to RSVP in person, or register to participate online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZElc-itrjgvHNDogsDg6wMe47pOluSIcXYI?_x_zm_rtaid=O_T4jl2gQk-eJ1vIXaeqDw.1648421599270.e098cddc0d3e6ab8b653afe6c5833f53&_x_zm_rhtaid=371
26) Gadgets and Apps for Safe Navigation | Technology User Group
June 11th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. There are many apps and devices that can aid a visually impaired traveler through the unknown. Avoid low-hanging obstacles and other obstructions. Which ones can you afford and which ones offer the best protection?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
27) Tactile Drawing from Still Life | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 11th 2022 | 10:30 AM PT, 11:30 AM MT, 12:30 PM CT, 1:30 PM ET, 5:30 PM GMT | Saturday June 11th 2022 from 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM Eastern In this hands-on workshop, we'll explore still life scenes of 3D objects and then create accessible tactile drawings. A variety of tactile media will be offered. This hands-on event will take place in person. Please email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to RSVP.
28) Intro to Google Translate | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 15th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Wednesday June 15th 2022 from 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM Eastern. Take a deep dive into this powerful cross-platform tool for translation. We'll explore how to translate from speech, text, handwriting and the camera; how to build a list of phrases you use often; and what you need to know about conversational and continuous translation. This event will take place in person and online. Email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to attend in person, or register to participate online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZElc-itrjgvHNDogsDg6wMe47pOluSIcXYI?_x_zm_rtaid=5aP3v6sNTtuCFyUfVDXxaQ.1648429186785.e6167c6b9ddb64d3c5052fc57b1d89aa&_x_zm_rhtaid=506
29) Eye Drop Webinar | Accessible Pharmacy
June 22nd 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | This webinar will have a live ASL interpreter, and closed captioning. If you are unable to attend, still be sure to register to receive access to the webinar audio and video via email afterwards. Please join us as we discuss tips and techniques for using eye drops as well as trends in eye drop refill legislation. Speakers will include experts from The Chicago Lighthouse and Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind. Questions? Please contact info@accessiblepharmacy.com 📧️. To read about the speakers and to register, click the link below:
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/eye-drop-webinar/
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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: Put A New 32 Cell Braille Display in Your Braillenote for Cheap
Listing Date: 4/28/2022 | Price: $925.00 USD | Condition: New. | Description: Is your Braillenote Touch Plus 32 or Touch 32 or Apex 32 not as perfect as it was when new? Then just replace it with a brand new perfect one for only $925. We also take trade-in Braille devices to further help you with the price for the new display. | Contact: Joe via Email at: newbraille32@gmail.com 📧️ or by phone at:(726) 777-9536 📱️. |
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
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
➜ The FREE, Virtual 2022 National Coding Symposium is Back, May 9-May 13, 2022
APH invites students, parents, and teachers to learn how the world of coding, programming, and related careers are available and accessible to students who are blind and visually impaired. Learn more and register for the 2022 National Coding Symposium now!
https://aphconnectcenter.org/coding/?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=Paid+Traffic+%28Google+Ads%29&utm_campaign=2022_Coding_Symposium
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Start Your Coding Journey Today with APH's Road to Code!
Want to learn more about coding but don't know where to start? Look no further! APH's Road to Code provides a roadmap for coding progression through all our fun and engaging coding products.
https://bit.ly/3HueRfI
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 Daisy Player and Entertainment System, The Evo 12
We are pleased to announce the availability of our new daisy player and entertainment system, the Evo 12. It utilizes the highly listenable Sally and Joey voices and reads Bookshare as well as epub, word and text documents. It does not accept either BARD or Audible files. The Evo now supports the "abc" method for entering text, along with its most exciting new feature, stereo recording from the internal microphone as well as from the Internet radio and FM radio. For better reception, a flexible antenna has been added. Another unique and very popular feature makes possible basic editing of recorded files. The unit also contains a memo recorder, voice reminders and timers, a color reader, Internet radio, and podcatcher to which your own entries can be added to the player database. The introductory price through July 31st is $289.00. The player is available both from GuideLights and Gadgets and from our collaborative partner, Mystic Access. For additional information, contact Barry Scheur at (617) 969-7500 📱️ or bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.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
➜ 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
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
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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
The DannyBoy Portable Stand holds your Smart Phone stationary so it's camera can view items and documents clearly providing stability for excellent recognition & clarity. Take perfect pictures and scan images. Read documents quickly and easily. Great for anyone with motor disabilities, too! Made with the Blind In Mind! Lightweight & Portable. Ready To Use or Collapses In Seconds. Read All About the DannyBoy Portable Stand at DannyBoy.com in BlindMiceMegaMall.com at:
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
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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.
Your Name Here
0 of 12 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 0 of 12 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, April 21, 2022 - Volume 855
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.
Subscribers: 7,184 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email.
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.) Top Tech Tidbits Announces Premium Subscriber Option For $1 A Month (12.7% of all clicks.)
In order to generate a small amount of additional funding which will be used to support both current and future upgrades to the Top Tech Tidbits publication we have made the decision to begin offering a Premium Subscriber option to those readers that wish to get even more information out of the Top Tech Tidbits publication. It will work like this:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/69.html
B.) This Headset Sends Sound Through Your Jaw — And It's Great For The Blind (8.1% of all clicks.)
Bone conduction headphones have a bit of a cyborg vibe to them. They are headphones that don't sit on your ears, but rather sit against your jawbone. They use vibration to send sound straight to your inner ear, bypassing your outer ear entirely. These headphones have made steady progress in the personal audio market, and the options for consumers are continuously increasing. They are an especially useful accessory for people who are blind, offering several benefits over traditional headphones that make them worth the investment:
https://www.reviewed.com/accessibility/content/shokz-opencomm-review-ideal-headset-blind-users
C.) JAWS Power Tip: Announcing Document Headers and Footers (7.6% of all clicks.)
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/70.html
D.) The Best Wireless Earbuds | Wired (6.7% of all clicks.)
Ready to cut the cord? These are our favorite buds that will never, ever get tangled:
https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-wirefree-earbuds/
E.) What's the Fastest Way to Charge Your iPhone? (6.4% of all clicks.)
No one wants to leave their smartphone plugged into a charging cable or on a wireless charger for hours. Fast charging is the in-thing now. This guide compares the different fast-charging methods and accessories available for iPhone owners:
https://www.switchingtomac.com/tutorials/iphone/guide-whats-the-fastest-way-to-charge-your-iphone/
2) Top Tech Tidbits Publisher Updates for April 21st 2022
Updates this week include: Premium Subscriber Updates | New Premium Subscriber Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Section Added | Feedback Request: "Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events" Section | Seeking Product Reviews:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/71.html
3) Intro to BrailleSense 6 Mini | Webinar Recording | HIMS
4) Review: Samsung Galaxy A53 5G
This review comes to us courtesy of Tidbits Reader Judy Jones. On behalf of all of us here at Tidbits, thanks so much for sharing your experience with us:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/72.html
5) Time Picker Widget in the Windows 11 Settings App | dSurf
In this lesson you learn how to locate and use the time picker widget in the Windows 11 Settings app. The time picker widget can be found in the "turn on do not disturb automatically settings" and in the "night light, set hours" as well as other places in the Settings app for scheduling purposes. Learn the concept behind its use and how to set it with the mouse or keyboard. In lesson eleven of our Windows 11 with JAWS series you learn the following: Locate the time picker widget in the "Do not disturb automatic rules" section of the Windows 11 Settings app. Use the time picker controls to change the hours, minutes, and period for "During these times" in the "Turn on do not disturb automatically" settings. Video Chapter Times: 00:00 Introduction and Objectives. 00:38 Time Picker Widget:
YouTube video: https://youtu.be/cgiL3dzTkSA
Web page with links to resources: https://dsurf.net/time-picker-widget/
6) How To Get The Best Out Of Accessibility Features In Windows 11
This TechRadar article does a good job of making the point that accessibility options are beneficial to everyone:
https://www.techradar.com/how-to/how-to-get-the-best-out-of-accessibility-features-in-windows-11
7) Enhancements In JAWS 2022.2204.20 | April 2022
Enhancements for JAWS and Fusion are out. Changes to navigation quick keys and other web enhancements are among the changes:
https://support.freedomscientific.com/downloads/jaws/JAWSWhatsNew#latest
8) GuideLights and Gadgets Announces New Daisy Player and Entertainment System, The Evo 12
GuideLights and Gadgets is pleased to announce the availability of their new daisy player and entertainment system, the Evo 12. It utilizes the highly listenable Sally and Joey voices and reads Bookshare as well as ePub, Word and text documents. It does not accept either BARD or Audible files. The Evo now supports the "ABC" method for entering text, along with its most exciting new feature, stereo recording from the internal microphone as well as from the Internet Radio and FM radio. For better reception, a flexible antenna has been added. Another unique and very popular feature makes possible basic editing of recorded files. The unit also contains a memo recorder, voice reminders and timers, a color reader, Internet radio, and a podcatcher to which your own entries can be added to the player database. The introductory price through July 31st 2022 is $289.00. The player is available both from GuideLights and Gadgets and their collaborative partner, Mystic Access. For additional information, contact Barry Scheur at (617) 969-7500 📱️ or bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️.
9) New Sensor Technology Helps Blind And Visually Impaired Pedestrians Avoid Hazards
Cool Blind Tech brings us a story about a technology that would make navigating more accurate than GPS:
https://coolblindtech.com/new-sensor-technology-helps-blind-and-visually-impaired-pedestrians-avoid-hazards/
10) BARD Update
The National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled BARD app has been updated. The ability to sort and search Wish List and Previous Downloads is among the improvements:
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/bard-mobile/id705229586
11) A Year Ago, A New TikTok Feature Changed The Game For Its Deaf Users. Now, 'Deaftok' Is A Thriving And Inclusive Community
This is good evidence as to why including accessibility features so important. Many creators share their experiences as part of the Deaf community and its language and culture. They will often use hashtags to indicate they identify as deaf or hard-of-hearing (#hoh), or a combination of hashtags — many hard-of-hearing people also identify as deaf, regardless of their level of hearing loss, and as members or allies of the Deaf community which in the US typically shares the use of ASL:
https://www.insider.com/deaftok-deaf-hearing-asl-TikTok-creators-2022-4
12) CRADLE White Eye Detector
This app purports to assist users in detecting the appearance of white eye in pictures of their children. A white pupil can be a normal photographic effect in pictures (like red eye, but white). White eye can also be a symptom of multiple serious eye diseases such as retinoblastoma, pediatric cataract, and Coats' disease:
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/white-eye-detector/id904042354
13) Accessible Fitness App
Tyler Merren, multi-Paralympian, has developed an accessible fitness app known as ReVision. This app is your personal trainer, it describes all the moves when doing any exercise. It can be found and installed on Apple or Android using these links:
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/in/app/revision-fitness/id1561742182
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.revision.fitness
14) Tech Designed To Aid Visually Impaired Could Benefit From Human-AI Collaboration
Remote sighted assistance (RSA) technology — which connects visually impaired individuals with human agents through a live video call on their smartphones — helps people with low or no vision navigate tasks that require sight. But what happens when existing computer vision technology doesn't fully support an agent in fulfilling certain requests, such as reading instructions on a medicine bottle or recognizing flight information on an airport's digital screen?
https://www.psu.edu/news/information-sciences-and-technology/story/tech-designed-aid-visually-impaired-could-benefit-human/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Early Win For Deaf Plaintiff In VR Captioning Lawsuit
This is likely the first legal case for accessibility of virtual reality technologies:
https://www.lflegal.com/2022/04/vr-caption-lawsuit/
2) The Impact Of Motion Animation On Cognitive Disability
The impact of motion animation on people with a vestibular disorder is well documented, and known to cause nausea, dizziness, or headaches, in affected users. However the impact on people with some cognitive disabilities is less commonly discussed:
https://www.tpgi.com/the-impact-of-motion-animation-on-cognitive-disability/
3) GSA Looks Into Facial Recognition Bias And Improving Accessibility In Federal Web Services
The U.S. General Services Administration, which procures and investigates tech for things like government websites and online services, is making a two-pronged push for accessibility in its recently released Equity Action Plan. Websites must be made accessible beyond the bare minimum, it said, and bias in facial recognition systems means the feds will be avoiding it wherever possible:
https://techcrunch.com/2022/04/18/gsa-facial-recognition-bias-accessibility/
4) India's First Radio Channel For Visually-Impaired People 'Radio Aksh' Launched
Country's first-ever radio channel for the visually impaired, named 'Radio Aksh' has been launched in Nagpur, with the Blind Relief Association Nagpur and Samdrushti Kshamata Vikas Avam Anusandhan Mandal (Saksham) serving as the pioneers of the concept that will help the visually-impaired gain seamless access to education resources and audiobooks:
https://www.livemint.com/industry/media/indias-first-radio-channel-for-visually-impaired-people-radio-aksh-launched-in-nagpur-11650175552533.html
5) BlindSquare Responds to Request for Help for Ukraine
On March 31st, we were approached by Igor Kushni, a Ukrainian BlindSquare user, seeking help on behalf of persons who are blind and partially sighted in Ukraine. We immediately put a plan into action to support them. Below is Igor's plea for help for Ukrainian refugees:
https://www.blindsquare.com/2022/04/12/blindsquare-responds-to-request-for-help-for-ukraine/
6) APH Behind the Scenes: The Talking Book Studio
Have you ever wondered how talking books are produced for people who are blind and have low vision? We spoke with Studio Director Maggie Davis about how the Talking Book Studio serves APH and the field:
https://www.aph.org/aph-behind-the-scenes-the-talking-book-studio/
7) Georgia State Researchers Take Step Toward Developing 'Electric Eye'
Georgia State University researchers have successfully designed a new type of artificial vision device that incorporates a novel vertical stacking architecture and allows for greater depth of color recognition and scalability on a micro-level. The new research is published in the top journal ACS Nano:
https://news.gsu.edu/2022/04/18/georgia-state-researchers-take-step-toward-developing-electric-eye/
8) Kerala: This Device Made Of Biodegradable Plastic Can Help Visually-Impaired Students Learn English
Earlier, a single wooden device was used in one class and all students had to use it for learning. Akshi is a 3x3 grid device made of biodegradable plastic:
https://www.edexlive.com/news/2022/apr/15/kerala-this-device-made-ofbiodegradable-plastic-can-help-visually-impaired-students-learn-english-28321.html
9) Researchers Intend To Use Ultrasound Devices To Restore Vision To The Blind
Researchers are taking advantage of the fact that blind eyes can be stimulated by mechanical pressure. You might have even experienced this, if you have observed shapes and bright spots appearing after gently pushing on your eyeballs when your eyes are closed. Lu says, "The neurons present in the retina of the eye possess mechanically sensitive channels that respond to mechanical stimulation. These neurons are activated when we use ultrasound to generate mechanical pressure."
https://www.news9live.com/science/researchers-non-invasively-stimulate-blind-retinas-using-focused-ultrasound-164818
➜ Surveys
1) Survey | Help Researchers To Understand The Audio Perception Behavior of People With Visual Impairments
April 25th 2022 deadline to submit. | Hello. We are researchers from Indiana University Bloomington conducting an online survey to understand the audio perception behavior of people with visual impairments. I am inviting you to take part in a 25-30 minutes online survey from a place of your convenience. To participate in the survey, you must identify as visually impaired, must have normal hearing, and should be a native or bilingual speaker of English. You need to have access to a computer or laptop with a screen-reader and Internet connection. You should use headphones and should complete the survey in a quiet environment. For your participation, you will be paid $5 by an Amazon e-gift card. You will receive the URL link of the e-gift card within 3-5 business days after your participation. If you are interested in participating in our survey or have any questions about the study, please fill out the sign-up form below. Once you provide the details, one researcher will contact you via email or phone and send you the web link to participate in the survey. Alternatively, you may email Taslima Akter at takter@iu.edu 📧️. Please click here to sign up:
https://iu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bCt4WOvUkJworBA
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Gardening and Vision Loss | Hadley Presents: A Conversation with the Experts
April 15th 2022 | Master gardener Sue Brasel and Hadley's Chief Program Officer and gardener Ed Haines join us for a chat about gardening, no matter your level of vision or gardening experience. They share tips for how to get started, common challenges, and the many benefits of gardening:
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/gardening-and-vision-loss
2) Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 71, Notification Part 3 and ReVision
April 16th 2022 | This week, we conclude talking about the notifications section. We then catch up for a chat with Tyler Merren, multi-Paralympian, and developer of the ReVision Fitness app. In our app of the week section, we demo the ReVision an accessible fitness app. We bring the next episode of highlights from Talkback. Our podcast can be found on all popular podcasting platforms, on smart speakers and on YouTube at:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqqwFax9qHeOu4IczYW-SuUy
3) DM92 - Empty Pineapple Tweets
April 19th 2022 | In this episode of the DM Series, Damashe and Michael discuss the following Topics: Our current Livestream to Club Deck setup. Audio Hijack 4. Damashe's Audio Hijack Session. Loopback. Learning Resources Botley the Coding Robot. The Blackstone Outdoor griddle. The Meater wireless meat thermometer. Audio Hijack 4 Announcement. Automating Audio Hijack 4 with Shortcuts and JavaScript. Audio Hijack Scripting. BBQ In Tech. Give it a listen for a mix bag of technology topics:
https://yourownpay.com/dm92?utm_source=TopTechTidbit&utm_medium=Tidbits&utm_campaign=0419
4) Eyes on Success 2216 An Advocate For All
April 20th 2022 | As President and CEO of the Miami Lighthouse for the Blind, Virginia Jacko is committed to ensuring that the blind and visually impaired have equitable access to education, blindness prevention programs, and vision rehabilitation training. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Virginia about her advocacy work and highlights of her career:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202216.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Prep and Proof Google Documents Using Spelling and Grammar Features with JAWS
April 21st 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Do you need to proof Google documents more efficiently with JAWS? Want to learn how to access and navigate the spelling and grammar options? Join us Thursday, April 21 at noon Eastern for a live webinar, Prep and Proof Google Documents Using Spelling and Grammar Features with JAWS. We'll provide an overview of the spelling and grammar options Google Docs offers, plus show you how to: Access the spelling and grammar checker using the keyboard. Navigate spelling options. Add a word to your personal dictionary. Access spelling and grammar options from the Tools menu. Check spelling one word at a time using the context menu. Access the dictionary definition of a word. Explore search results for a selected word. ACVREP credits will be available for those who attend the live webinar. Register:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_dbuogL18Qji7zGU4AygHpQ
2) Presentation Anxiety? There's AT For That! Discover Present Pal | NOAT Webinar
April 22nd 2022 | 10:30 AM PT, 11:30 AM MT, 12:30 PM CT, 1:30 PM ET, 5:30 PM GMT | Using Technology To Improve Confidence And Reduce Anxiety In Presentations In A Remote And In-Person Setting. Join The Network of Assistive Technologists as we welcome Amer Latif and Ben Scott from Present Pal for this webinar. 95% of students experience presentation anxiety, and the existing ways students prepare for and deliver presentation tasks are not fully accessible. Why do students find presentations challenging, and does it matter? This session run by Amer Latif (VP of Sales) and Ben Scott (MA Psychology, University of St Andrews, MBPsS) will dive deeper into the challenges with presentations and the importance of learning this lifelong skill. Amer and Ben will also demonstrate the Present Pal App and how it can support students who experience challenges with presentation and communication tasks in the classroom. Present Pal is a communication tool that supports users to build their presentation skills and confidence through interactive and accessible flashcards. We are now supporting over 7000 students presenting with Present Pal in institutions such as Yale University, Cornell University, and the University of Memphis to reduce anxiety and boost student confidence. Join our session to: Learn more about the challenges of presentations for students with disabilities. Discuss how we can better support students to reduce anxiety and improve confidence with communication and presentation tasks. Find out more about the Present Pal tool and how it can help students learn this lifelong skill. Registration is Now Open - Visit the N.O.A.T. Events Site for more information and to register:
https://sites.google.com/NOAT.ca/events/
3) Tactile Graphics Open House | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
April 23rd 2022 | 10:30 AM ET PT, 11:30 AM ET MT, 12:30 PM ET CT, 1:30 PM ET, 5:30 PM GMT | Saturday April 23rd 2022 from 1:30 - 3:00 PM ET. Whether you're new to the concept of images you can explore by touch or a seasoned tactile graphics creator, the Dimensions Lab is here to support you. Come explore our range of graphics embossers, 3D printers, a swell-form machine, a refreshable graphics tablet, and analog tools for tech-free, stress-free accessible drawing. This hands-on event will take place in person: kindly rsvp to ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to reserve your spot!
4) Technology Blogs and Podcasts | Hadley Tech It Out Discussion Group
April 26th 2022 | 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12PM GMT, 4/27 | It's great to know that for every tech topic out there, someone has researched and shared what's available and how to use it. Join us as we explore blogs and podcasts on technology from a blind and low vision perspective:
https://zoom.us/j/468325263?utm_source=sfmc&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Tech+It+Out+Next+Episode+Reminder&utm_term=https%3a%2f%2fzoom.us%2fj%2f468325263&utm_id=30253&sfmc_id=17563849&utm_source=sfmc&utm_term=&utm_content=10757&utm_id=52eff567-e340-4b6c-80f5-9bdaed753c04&sfmc_activityid=949f6754-041a-47e5-9588-dd497c83cebe&utm_medium=email#success
5) A Look at Programming Languages and Concepts for Blind and Low Vision Coders | APH
April 26th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Thanks to a generous grant from CDW, The American Printing House for the Blind (APH) is proud to offer introductory coding courses for blind and visually impaired youth and adults. These courses are designed to familiarize blind and low vision young adults and adults with basic coding tools, challenges navigating these tools with assistive technology such as screen readers, and techniques for navigating those challenges. Join Florian Beijers, a blind coder, as he guides you through learning the basics of coding in multiple programming languages. This is the second in a series of four courses. This second course takes place Tuesdays in April at 1:00 PM Eastern time. Classes will be April 5, 12, 19, and 26 from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM Eastern daylight time, but all sessions will be recorded and available soon after the live class for those who cannot attend at the scheduled time. If you cannot attend at the scheduled time, please be sure to register for the webinar so that you will receive all emails, including links to the recordings. Pre-requisite knowledge: At least intermediate familiarity with a screen reader with speech and/or braille, or intermediate familiarity with a screen magnification program. Ability to use the internet to accomplish tasks such as searching for and reading information, completing forms, and using keyboard shortcuts to navigate, read, and edit. Ability to follow written instructions to independently download and install programs and extensions. Willingness to participate in the entire course consisting of 4 weekly sessions; each session will last 90 minutes. Willingness to spend at least two hours per week on review and homework. Lesson Plan Goal: Introduce students to multiple coding modalities and how to navigate barriers encountered. Learning Objectives: 1. Identify three reasons to use ARIA and when not to use it. 2. Explain at least three requirements for web accessibility using ARIA. 3. Successfully apply Python basics to at least three coding tasks. 4. Describe use of Python in web application, data science, and automation. 5. Identify at least two obstacles present in the development field for blind and low vision coders, and two strategies to either join a development team or take a software development-related study. Materials Needed: screen reader with speech output or Braille display and/or screen magnification program. Here is the link to register:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_COVPq9ogT96c_X8XbSRPtA
6) VPAT® 101: Introduction to the Voluntary Product Accessibility Template
April 27th 2022 | 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? TPGi's webinar will answer those questions and more, and explain how your organization can benefit from a VPAT. Register today:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-april-27-at-12pm-et-vpat-101-introduction-voluntary-product-accessibility-template/
7) Assistive Technology Training, Assessment, Equipment & Accessibility Services: How These Can Benefit You, Your Organization, or Clients | Access Ingenuity
April 27th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Do you need help determining if you or your client needs assistive technology training or if the problem results from the materials not being made accessible? Do you know what type of assistive technology is necessary or if it is required to get an assessment? Join Zhi Huang and Ian Ramos from Access Ingenuity to explore these services and how they can be beneficial. Learning Outcomes: Explore the benefits of assistive technology training. Discuss when you may need an assistive technology assessment versus just getting specific equipment. Compare documents that are not accessible versus documents that are accessible. Meeting ID: 894 9446 0678 | Passcode: 739184 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,89494460678#,,,,*739184# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89494460678?pwd=dTR2ZlBJbWZ6UGJuSU9TNWdBZC9iUT09
8) What Does it Meme?: Understanding and Sharing Visual Culture | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 2nd 2022 | 3PM PT, 4PM MT, 5PM CT, 6PM ET, 10PM GMT | Monday May 2, 6:00 - 7:30 PM Eastern
Memes are a rich part of Internet culture but, usually, they're not accessible to blind and low-vision people. Join us as we dive into the meaning and evolution of memes, and explore how concise, evocative description can create equity of access in digital spaces. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/j/87873411950?pwd=c1gwWTdQV0V1aG1ScG50OTVLUVFudz09#success
9) American Foundation for the Blind Leadership Conference (AFBLC)
May 2nd 2022 through May3rd 2022 | Hyatt Regency Arlington, Virginia. Join us for the American Foundation for the Blind's Leadership Conference (AFBLC), which will take place at the Hyatt Regency, Arlington, Virginia this year. We aim to create a world of no limits for people who are blind. We are committed to putting inclusion to work, which will be a major emphasis of our 2022 AFBLC. AFBLC provides a forum in which leaders from a variety of fields-including research, technology, education, corporations, health and government organizations — have the opportunity to expand their knowledge of best practices, refine leadership skills, identify inclusion practices that work, and share concerns and strategies. The Migel Medal, the highest honor in the blindness field, as well as the Corinne Kirchner Research Award and the newly established Llura Gund Leadership Award will be presented at the AFB Leadership Conference. We look forward to gathering with you to explore the conference themes of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility:
https://www.afb.org/about-afb/events-and-awards/afblc2022?sourceid=&ms=N422JAN2EM3LC&emci=613b769b-b58e-ec11-a507-281878b83d8a&emdi=e828bc7c-418f-ec11-a507-281878b83d8a&ceid=8505425
10) Intro to Facebook with Accessibility in Mind | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 5th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Thursday May 5th 2022 from 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM ET. We'll go over the basics of navigating Facebook with confidence on mobile and the web. Learn how to create posts including links and photos, navigate the News Feed, access important settings, handle messages and more. This hybrid event will take place online and in person. Please RSVP to chanceyfleet@nypl.org 📧️ to attend in person, or register for the Zoom:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAud-6prjIiHNLfBON7AHjHx7b0LE-PELaN?_x_zm_rtaid=O_T4jl2gQk-eJ1vIXaeqDw.1648421599270.e098cddc0d3e6ab8b653afe6c5833f53&_x_zm_rhtaid=371
11) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Beginners | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 7th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) 1:00 - 2:15 PM ET. If you're new to using Voiceover on the iPhone or if you're still working toward confidence, this discussion group is for you. We'll spend some time going over the theory of how screen readers work, gestures everyone needs to know, and some strategies for getting help. Then, we'll open it up for questions and networking. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
12) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Users: Beyond the Basics | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 7th 2022 | 11:30AM PT, 12:30AM, 1:30PM CT, 2:30PM ET, 6:30PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) from 2:30 - 4:00 PM ET. Talk about customizing gestures and settings, exploring new apps, choosing accessories, dealing with bugs, and whatever else comes to mind. This is a space for any and all Voiceover topics that go beyond the basics of using common gestures and built-in apps. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
13) The Web is Inherently Accessible | AccessU 2022 | TPGi
May 10th 2022 | 6:30AM PT, 7:30AM MT, 8:30AM CT, 9:30AM ET, 1:30PM GMT | Rachele DiTullio. Expand your accessibility knowledge by checking out some of the excellent sessions at AccessU. The schedule includes one day of pre-conference workshops followed by three days of live training and Q&A sessions. All times are US Central Time. Join TPGi's accessibility experts as they share their knowledge and present on some excellent topics.
https://knowbility.org/programs/accessu-2022
14) Using the JAWS Screen Reader to Create Better Digital Content | AccessU 2022 | TPGi
May 10th 2022 | 11:45AM PT, 12:45PM MT, 1:45PM CT, 2:45PM ET, 6:45PM GMT | Rachele DiTullio. Expand your accessibility knowledge by checking out some of the excellent sessions at AccessU. The schedule includes one day of pre-conference workshops followed by three days of live training and Q&A sessions. All times are US Central Time. Join TPGi's accessibility experts as they share their knowledge and present on some excellent topics.
https://knowbility.org/programs/accessu-2022
15) Hiring for Cognitive Diversity in Tech | AccessU 2022 | TPGi
May 10th 2022 | 1:30PM PT, 2:30PM MT, 3:30PM CT, 4:30PM ET, 8:30PM GMT | LE Silveus McNamara. Expand your accessibility knowledge by checking out some of the excellent sessions at AccessU. The schedule includes one day of pre-conference workshops followed by three days of live training and Q&A sessions. All times are US Central Time. Join TPGi's accessibility experts as they share their knowledge and present on some excellent topics.
https://knowbility.org/programs/accessu-2022
16) Making Streaming Video Inclusive | AccessU 2022 | TPGi
May 11th 2022 | 6:30AM PT, 7:30AM MT, 8:30AM CT, 9:30AM ET, 1:30PM GMT | Carolina Crespo, Rachele DiTullio, Charu Panhdi. Expand your accessibility knowledge by checking out some of the excellent sessions at AccessU. The schedule includes one day of pre-conference workshops followed by three days of live training and Q&A sessions. All times are US Central Time. Join TPGi's accessibility experts as they share their knowledge and present on some excellent topics.
https://knowbility.org/programs/accessu-2022
17) Premium Services Using Alexa and Google | Technology User Group
May 14 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. Alexa and Google are adding premium services to their skill set. How do you subscribe to these services and use them?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
18) Where in the World: Accessible Wayfinding and Mapping for iOS | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 18th 2022 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Wednesday May 18th 2022 from 3:00 - 4:30 PM ET. We'll explore accessible mainstream apps like Apple and Google Maps, which can give you walking or transit directions and help you discover points of interest in your city. Plus, we'll explore Microsoft Soundscape and GoodMaps, two apps built to give you precise, accessible guidance. This event will take place in person and online. To attend in person, please RSVP to ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ or register via Zoom to join online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMrcu2rrjkjGd0aaqdPZNDeB4iaC3L06-Lo
19) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Beginners | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 4th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) 1:00 - 2:15 PM ET. If you're new to using Voiceover on the iPhone or if you're still working toward confidence, this discussion group is for you. We'll spend some time going over the theory of how screen readers work, gestures everyone needs to know, and some strategies for getting help. Then, we'll open it up for questions and networking. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
20) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Users: Beyond the Basics | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 4th 2022 | 11:30AM PT, 12:30AM, 1:30PM CT, 2:30PM ET, 6:30PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) from 2:30 - 4:00 PM ET. Talk about customizing gestures and settings, exploring new apps, choosing accessories, dealing with bugs, and whatever else comes to mind. This is a space for any and all Voiceover topics that go beyond the basics of using common gestures and built-in apps. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
21) Using iOS Shortcuts | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 9th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Thursday June 9, 2:00 - 3:30 PM Eastern. Shortcuts can be used to automate tasks and save time. Join us to explore examples of effective shortcuts and learn to create your own. This event will take place in person and online. Email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to RSVP in person, or register to participate online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZElc-itrjgvHNDogsDg6wMe47pOluSIcXYI?_x_zm_rtaid=O_T4jl2gQk-eJ1vIXaeqDw.1648421599270.e098cddc0d3e6ab8b653afe6c5833f53&_x_zm_rhtaid=371
22) Gadgets and Apps for Safe Navigation | Technology User Group
June 11th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. There are many apps and devices that can aid a visually impaired traveler through the unknown. Avoid low-hanging obstacles and other obstructions. Which ones can you afford and which ones offer the best protection?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
23) Tactile Drawing from Still Life | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 11th 2022 | 10:30 AM PT, 11:30 AM MT, 12:30 PM CT, 1:30 PM ET, 5:30 PM GMT | Saturday June 11th 2022 from 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM Eastern In this hands-on workshop, we'll explore still life scenes of 3D objects and then create accessible tactile drawings. A variety of tactile media will be offered. This hands-on event will take place in person. Please email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to RSVP.
24) Intro to Google Translate | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 15th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Wednesday June 15th 2022 from 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM Eastern. Take a deep dive into this powerful cross-platform tool for translation. We'll explore how to translate from speech, text, handwriting and the camera; how to build a list of phrases you use often; and what you need to know about conversational and continuous translation. This event will take place in person and online. Email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to attend in person, or register to participate online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZElc-itrjgvHNDogsDg6wMe47pOluSIcXYI?_x_zm_rtaid=5aP3v6sNTtuCFyUfVDXxaQ.1648429186785.e6167c6b9ddb64d3c5052fc57b1d89aa&_x_zm_rhtaid=506
25) Eye Drop Webinar | Accessible Pharmacy
June 22nd 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | This webinar will have a live ASL interpreter, and closed captioning. If you are unable to attend, still be sure to register to receive access to the webinar audio and video via email afterwards. Please join us as we discuss tips and techniques for using eye drops as well as trends in eye drop refill legislation. Speakers will include experts from The Chicago Lighthouse and Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind. Questions? Please contact info@accessiblepharmacy.com 📧️. To read about the speakers and to register, click the link below:
https://www.accessiblepharmacy.com/eye-drop-webinar/
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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: APH ConnectCenter
➜ The FREE, Virtual 2022 National Coding Symposium is Back, May 9-May 13, 2022
APH invites students, parents, and teachers to learn how the world of coding, programming, and related careers are available and accessible to students who are blind and visually impaired. Learn more and register for the 2022 National Coding Symposium now!
https://aphconnectcenter.org/coding/?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=Paid+Traffic+%28Google+Ads%29&utm_campaign=2022_Coding_Symposium
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Start Your Coding Journey Today with APH's Road to Code!
Want to learn more about coding but don't know where to start? Look no further! APH's Road to Code provides a roadmap for coding progression through all our fun and engaging coding products.
https://bit.ly/3HueRfI
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 Daisy Player and Entertainment System, The Evo 12
We are pleased to announce the availability of our new daisy player and entertainment system, the Evo 12. It utilizes the highly listenable Sally and Joey voices and reads Bookshare as well as epub, word and text documents. It does not accept either BARD or Audible files. The Evo now supports the "abc" method for entering text, along with its most exciting new feature, stereo recording from the internal microphone as well as from the Internet radio and FM radio. For better reception, a flexible antenna has been added. Another unique and very popular feature makes possible basic editing of recorded files. The unit also contains a memo recorder, voice reminders and timers, a color reader, Internet radio, and podcatcher to which your own entries can be added to the player database. The introductory price through July 31st is $289.00. The player is available both from GuideLights and Gadgets and from our collaborative partner, Mystic Access. For additional information, contact Barry Scheur at (617) 969-7500 📱️ or bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.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
➜ 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
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
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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
The DannyBoy Portable Stand holds your Smart Phone stationary so it's camera can view items and documents clearly providing stability for excellent recognition & clarity. Take perfect pictures and scan images. Read documents quickly and easily. Great for anyone with motor disabilities, too! Made with the Blind In Mind! Lightweight & Portable. Ready To Use or Collapses In Seconds. Read All About the DannyBoy Portable Stand at DannyBoy.com in BlindMiceMegaMall.com at:
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
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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
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.
Your Name Here
0 of 12 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 0 of 12 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, April 14, 2022 - Volume 854
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.
Subscribers: 7,167 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: The FREE, Virtual 2022 National Coding Symposium is Back, May 9-May 13, 2022
The FREE, Virtual 2022 National Coding Symposium is Back, May 9-May 13, 2022
Calling all future coders! APH and our partners are pleased to present the 2022 National Coding Symposium. This event connects parents, teachers, and students who are visually impaired with professionals in the coding industry from organizations such as LinkedIn, Vispero, Amazon, Apple, NVDA, Yahoo, HumanWare, Tetralogical, APH, and many more. Through a series of inspirational speakers, panel discussions, presentations, and question and answer sessions, attendees of all ages will be introduced to coding concepts and various pathways to careers in and/or related to coding. Awards and scholarship opportunities are also available! Learn more and register for the 2022 National Coding Symposium today!
https://aphconnectcenter.org/coding/?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=Paid+Traffic+%28Google+Ads%29&utm_campaign=2022_Coding_Symposium
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) The iPhone SE 3: A More Practical Phone for Some Use Cases | Scott Davert | AppleVis (5.1% of all clicks.)
This review was completed after 10 days of use. Most of my comparison will be with the iPhone SE 2, since that was the phone I had been using previously. For the sake of clarity, when referring to the previous generation of iPhone SE released in 2020, it will be referred to as the iPhone SE 2. Apple refers to the current model of iPhone SE simply by that name. This was also true of the first and second generation:
https://www.applevis.com/comment/134125#comment-134125
B.) Adaptations Monthly: A New Newsletter From the San Francisco Lighthouse For The Blind's Adaptations Store (4.7% of all clicks.)
Adaptations Monthly is a newsletter launched by the San Francisco Lighthouse. This first edition discusses the Versa Slate. The following link will take you to the newsletter's first issue where you will also find a subscribe link if you'd like to subscribe to their newsletter:
https://mailchi.mp/cbac1b17ea27/adaptations-online-store-now-open-896827?e=2601ff5be9
C.) How to Get the Transcript of a YouTube Video (4.5% of all clicks.)
Closed captions are a handy feature on YouTube, but they only appear in real-time along with the video. You can get a transcript of those captions to read at your own speed. It works on desktops, iPhones, and Android:
https://www.howtogeek.com/793947/how-to-get-the-transcript-of-a-youtube-video/
D.) New iPhone App Enables Blind to Translate Braille to Text (4.2% of all clicks.)
If you ever thought about learning Braille or just wanted to quickly translate something written in UEB to your iPhone, there's a new app that can help you with that. Braille Scanner allows users to take a photo of a piece of paper with Braille on it using their iPhones and have it translated into text:
https://iphonearena.com/new-iphone-app-enables-blind-to-translate-braille-to-text/
E.) AccessWorld March 2022 (3.7% of all clicks.)
March updates include: Accessible Science: Chemistry 101 | Reading AccessWorld Made Easy | Solve the Outbreak, Blind Drive, and BattleFruit: A Review of Three Accessible Games:
https://www.afb.org/aw/23/3
2) Top Tech Tidbits Announces Premium Subscriber Option
In order to generate a small amount of additional funding which will be used to support both current and future upgrades to the Top Tech Tidbits publication we have made the decision to begin offering a Premium Subscriber option to those readers that wish to get even more information out of the Top Tech Tidbits publication. It will work like this:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/69.html
3) JAWS Power Tip: Announcing Document Headers and Footers
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/70.html
4) Establishing a New Braille File Standard with the eBRF
Imagine reading an interesting article or editing a hefty document with no way to navigate by page or heading, only able to scroll down one line at a time. Braille readers experience this tedium whenever they access digital braille files, making reading at home, in the classroom, and in the workplace a slow process. We think it's time to take the braille file into the 21st century. In collaboration with leaders from across the field, APH is developing a new, revolutionary braille file standard that will be accessible on both braille displays and embossers and will change the way students, teachers, and transcribers interact with braille and tactile graphics. We're calling it the eBRF:
https://www.aph.org/establishing-a-new-braille-file-standard-with-the-ebrf/
5) Twitter Launches Improved Alt Text Accessibility Features Globally
Sometimes, new Twitter features can be divisive — TechCrunch has made their feelings clear about the edit button, which is apparently in the works. But we can (hopefully) all agree that simple accessibility features are a good thing:
https://techcrunch.com/2022/04/07/twitter-alt-text-badge-image-description/
6) Snapchat Creates Tool For Users To Start Learning American Sign Language
The new augmented reality-enabled Lens, which was released on Tuesday and made in partnership with the technology company SignAll, teaches you how to fingerspell your name and practice the ASL alphabet. It also has a game to track your progress and tell you what you are getting right and wrong:
https://www.today.com/news/news/snapchat-creates-tool-users-learn-american-sign-language-rcna22964
7) Blind Student From Bastrop Makes History While Taking The A.C.T.
Many blind students have tried to take the A.C.T. with JAWS, but Ky'ren Johnson is the only one who's done it. This contributor (Stephen (Alex) Marositz) was provided the test in braille only:
https://www.knoe.com/2022/04/05/blind-student-bastrop-makes-history-while-taking-act/
8) This App Translates Braille To Text With Your iPhone
As a follow up to our announcement last week, Braille Scanner was created to help transcribe Braille to text. It uses a combination of machine learning and vision to do this. The current transcription model uses Unified English Braille, Grade 1, and more is planned in the coming app updates. It is iOS only:
Info: https://coolblindtech.com/this-app-translates-braille-to-text-with-your-iphone/
App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/braille-scanner/id1517369095
9) New Versions Of Open-Source Web Accessibility Tools Ainspector And FAE Now Available
The Functional Accessibility Evaluator (FAE) evaluates a website, or a single web page based on the W3C Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 Level A and AA requirements. New updates are available:
https://fae.disability.illinois.edu/anonymous/?Anonymous%20Report=/
10) Application Dictionary
Speaking of opensource, This NVDA add-on makes it possible to create application-specific dictionaries for NVDA:
https://addons.nvda-project.org/addons/applicationDictionary.en.html
11) Improved Announcements For Braille Comments And Highlights Available In Google Docs On Web
They have improved how comments and highlighted text are announced with braille support enabled in Google Docs. This change makes it easier for users of assistive technology, including screen readers and refreshable braille displays, to interact with comments in documents and identify text with background colors:
https://workspaceupdates.googleblog.com/2022/03/improved-announcements-for-braille.html?m=1
12) Powering Up Accessibly: A Review Of The Energrid VS820PD | Applevis | Scott Davert
The Energrid VS820PD is rectangular, measuring 5.5 inches long by 2.8 inches wide by 1 inch thick and weighs 13.2 ounces. Its physical profile is larger than other similar power banks because it contains a vibration motor and a device which produces beeps:
https://www.applevis.com/reviews/powering-accessibly-review-energrid-vs820pd
13) Android Voice Access: How To Control Your Android Phone With Your Voice
Android's accessibility features have expanded greatly in the last few years. Features like Live Transcribe are a perfect example, converting human voices to on-screen text to allow conversations that bridge communication barriers for someone with a hearing impairment. TalkBack makes it possible for a person with a visual impairment to use an Android phone by listening to spoken descriptions of apps, controls, and content. While accessibility features are critical for some users, they can be beneficial to all:
https://screenrant.com/android-phone-use-voice-access-how/
14) This Headset Sends Sound Through Your Jaw — And It's Great For The Blind
Bone conduction headphones have a bit of a cyborg vibe to them. They are headphones that don't sit on your ears, but rather sit against your jawbone. They use vibration to send sound straight to your inner ear, bypassing your outer ear entirely. These headphones have made steady progress in the personal audio market, and the options for consumers are continuously increasing. They are an especially useful accessory for people who are blind, offering several benefits over traditional headphones that make them worth the investment:
https://www.reviewed.com/accessibility/content/shokz-opencomm-review-ideal-headset-blind-users
15) Book | Getting Started with Android: Android and TalkBack for the Beginning User (Android S, 12) | By Kim Nova and Chris Nova | $26 - $28
Braille. DAISY. Elbraille. Word. Note: The DAISY edition of this book will be ready later in April 2022, but you can place an order for it now. If you are curious about the Android operating system and its built-in screen reader, TalkBack, this book is a comprehensive overview for beginners and novices alike. Kim and Chris Nova get down to the basics to help you decide whether Android is a good fit for you. Coverage includes: Android basics; choosing a device; security and customization; setting up and configuring your phone; navigational gestures; essential Android functions and screens; important apps for staying connected and organized; editing and manipulating text; Bluetooth, external keyboards, and keyboard commands; and much more:
https://www.nbp.org/ic/nbp/ANDROID-2022.html
16) Top Video Games For The Visually Impaired
The incorporation of accessibility options and features by developers is increasing the popularity of blind gaming and disability gaming in general:
https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/standard-entertainment/article/2001442762/top-video-games-for-the-visually-impaired
17) Windows 11 For Hybrid Work Event Biggest Announcements
Here's everything that Microsoft announced during the Windows 11 for Hybrid Work event:
https://pureinfotech.com/windows-11-for-hybrid-work-event-biggest-announcements/
18) What's the Fastest Way to Charge Your iPhone?
No one wants to leave their smartphone plugged into a charging cable or on a wireless charger for hours. Fast charging is the in-thing now. This guide compares the different fast-charging methods and accessories available for iPhone owners:
https://www.switchingtomac.com/tutorials/iphone/guide-whats-the-fastest-way-to-charge-your-iphone/
19) The Best Wireless Earbuds | Wired
Ready to cut the cord? These are our favorite buds that will never, ever get tangled:
https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-wirefree-earbuds/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) American Foundation for the Blind Leadership Conference to Convene Experts in Workforce Inclusion, Equity, Diversity, and Accessibility
In less than one month, the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) will host its annual Leadership Conference, which aims to increase leadership capacity in order to foster a more equitable society for people who are blind or visually impaired. The conference provides a forum in which leaders from a variety of fields — including research, technology, education, corporations, health and government organizations — have the opportunity to expand their knowledge of best practices, refine leadership skills, identify inclusion practices that work, and share strategies to enable inclusion:
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/american-foundation-for-the-blind-leadership-conference-to-convene-experts-in-workforce-inclusion-equity-diversity-and-accessibility-301519408.html
2) Justice Department Secures Agreement with CVS Pharmacy Inc., to Make Online COVID-19 Vaccine Registration Accessible for People with Disabilities
The Justice Department and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Rhode Island has announced a settlement agreement with CVS Pharmacy Inc., under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) that will eliminate barriers preventing people with certain disabilities from getting information about COVID-19 vaccinations and booking vaccination appointments online. CVS is the country's largest retail pharmacy, with nearly 10,000 locations. The resolution is the department's fifth agreement on the critical issue of COVID-19 vaccination website accessibility, following settlement announcements with Rite Aid Corporation, Hy-Vee Inc., The Kroger Co. and Meijer Inc.:
https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-secures-agreement-cvs-pharmacy-inc-make-online-covid-19-vaccine
3) Apple's 'Friday Night Baseball' On Apple TV+ Blends Sports, Technology, And Accessibility
As a diehard baseball junkie since early childhood, it was exciting — not to mention journalistically relevant — for me to tune into Friday Night Baseball. I turned on the early game, the NL East matchup between the Mets and Nationals, extremely curious about the accessibility of the broadcast. However esoteric to most casual viewers, the reality is the technical aspects of any sporting event's TV presentation is an important consideration for Blind or low vision people. It makes perfect sense — a television is nothing more than a giant screen on which you consume content, and like an iPhone or iPad or iMac or even Apple Watch, the "user interface" matters. Text matters. Colors matter. Contrast matters. What fun is watching a baseball game if you can't see the score or what inning it is or how many outs there are or how many runners are on? For those with typical eyesight (or close to it), they may not think twice about this. On the other hand, those who are visually impaired may find assessing graphics packages as essential to the experience as it is nerdy. I certainly fit that demographic, so I paid close attention to how Apple and MLB decided to literally present Friday Night Baseball as ace hurler Max Scherzer made his much-ballyhooed debut in a Mets uniform:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/stevenaquino/2022/04/11/apples-friday-night-baseball-on-apple-tv-blends-sports-technology-and-accessibility/?sh=3147a796782d
4) Yes, Blind Women Wear Makeup. When Will the Beauty Industry Catch Up?
'It's taken society a long time to see us,' said YouTuber Molly Burke, one of the new generation of women speaking out about the blind experience of fashion and beauty:
https://www.wsj.com/articles/blind-women-wear-makeup-when-will-the-beauty-industry-catch-up-11649449025
5) Feds Seek to Improve Airline Accessibility
The U.S. Department of Transportation recently proposed a rule requiring that all new single-aisle aircraft with 125 or more seats have at least one accessible lavatory. The restroom would need to be large enough to allow a passenger with a disability to "approach, enter, and maneuver" and use all the facilities and leave using the onboard wheelchair. accessible restrooms are only mandated on planes with more than one aisle. But, federal officials note that most domestic flights — including those going across the country — are flown on single-aisle aircraft:
https://www.disabilityscoop.com/2022/04/04/feds-seek-to-improve-airline-accessibility/29788/
XX) Going Blind After A Lifetime Of Normal Vision: The Toll Of Macular Degeneration
Many people don't realize they could lose much of their eyesight as their body ages — the biggest risk factor is simply getting older:
https://www.today.com/health/health/macular-degeneration-vision-loss-rcna23190
6) Ultrasound Gave Us Our First Baby Pictures. Can It Also Help the Blind See?
The research team in the USC Viterbi School of Engineering's Department of Biomedical Engineering is exploring a non-surgical solution that could restore sight by using another of the five senses. Sound:
https://viterbischool.usc.edu/news/2022/04/ultrasound-gave-us-our-first-baby-pictures-can-it-also-help-the-blind-see/
7) Voters With Disabilities Score Big Win In Settlement With BOE Over Vote-By-Mail Accessibility
The state Board of Elections has settled a 2020 Americans with Disabilities Act lawsuit with a host of disability organizations and will now create a statewide program allowing blind and disabled voters to fill out a remote, accessible vote-by-mail ballot online:
https://www.bxtimes.com/voters-with-disabilities-settlement/
8) "Daily Living" Remains Top Challenge For Those New To Vision Loss
More than 20 million people in the United States have low vision, most commonly from age-related conditions, including macular degeneration, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. As the aging population grows, the number of those with vision loss is expected to double. Many more adults will face the physiological and emotional challenges of adjusting to life with a visual impairment. Hadley, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, can help:
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/daily-living-remains-top-challenge-for-those-new-to-vision-loss-301523579.html
9) Synchrony Class Action Claims Financial Advice Website Not Accessible to the Blind
Synchrony Financial's website is not accessible to blind people, depriving them of the company's financial advice services, a new class action lawsuit alleges:
https://topclassactions.com/disability-class-action-lawsuit/synchrony-class-action-claims-financial-advice-website-not-accessible-to-the-blind/
10) How Spatial Audio Holds The Key To Inclusive Immersion
With communal experiences, sharing the same information is paramount. Reece Webb speaks with Tim Devine to discover how spatial audio can be used to revolutionize the sports experience:
https://www.inavateonthenet.net/features/article/how-spatial-audio-holds-the-key-to-inclusive-immersion
➜ Surveys
1) Survey | Help Researchers To Understand The Audio Perception Behavior of People With Visual Impairments
April 25th 2022 deadline to submit. | Hello. We are researchers from Indiana University Bloomington conducting an online survey to understand the audio perception behavior of people with visual impairments. I am inviting you to take part in a 25-30 minutes online survey from a place of your convenience. To participate in the survey, you must identify as visually impaired, must have normal hearing, and should be a native or bilingual speaker of English. You need to have access to a computer or laptop with a screen-reader and Internet connection. You should use headphones and should complete the survey in a quiet environment. For your participation, you will be paid $5 by an Amazon e-gift card. You will receive the URL link of the e-gift card within 3-5 business days after your participation. If you are interested in participating in our survey or have any questions about the study, please fill out the sign-up form below. Once you provide the details, one researcher will contact you via email or phone and send you the web link to participate in the survey. Alternatively, you may email Taslima Akter at takter@iu.edu 📧️. Please click here to sign up:
https://iu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bCt4WOvUkJworBA
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Eyes on Success 2215 Managing Care for Mental Health Disorders
April 13th 2022 | Finding the right therapist to help deal with a mental health issue is crucial to having a successful outcome. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Robert DeYoung, a practicing psychoanalyst who himself is blind, about special concerns faced by making this choice when one is blind and how blindness may affect the interaction between patient and therapist:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202215.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) When Do I Need to Upgrade My Magnifier? | Vispero
April 14th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Join us on Thursday, April 14, 2022, at noon ET for a frank discussion on when it might be time to graduate to your next video magnifier. What are some of the indicators to making a change? Has your field of view changed? Do you notice more glare while using your magnifier? Is your reading time with your current magnifier being reduced due to eye fatigue? These are some of the indicators that it might be time to change your magnifier. Objectives: Managing your field of view. Learn how to reduce glare and eye fatigue. When should you incorporate Scanning and Reading (Optical Character Recognition). Vispero Presenters: Mike Wood and Michelle Williams. Product Giveaway: One lucky winner will receive a $500 voucher good toward the purchase of any Freedom Scientific, Optelec, or Enhanced Vision product. This offer is open to U.S. attendees only. You must be present at the time of the drawing to win. ACVREP credits will be available for those who attend the live webinar. Register:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_wYNsgLknSy2t_SXaPX4Qjw
2) Braille Screen Input for iOS, Android and Kindle Fire | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
April 16th 2022 | 10:30 AM PT, 11:30 PM MT, 12:30 PM CT, 1:30 PM ET, 5:30 PM GMT | Saturday April 16th 2022 from 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM. If you know Braille (even if you don't know contractions), you can type comfortably and quickly with Braille screen input. In this workshop, we'll explore how to set it up, gestures you need to know, and what you can do if you're having trouble with this feature. This event will take place in person and online. Please RSVP to ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to attend in person, or register to participate online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIvce6orT0rE9HcMP5mm-hGq63YfZfdmloq?_x_zm_rtaid=O_T4jl2gQk-eJ1vIXaeqDw.1648421599270.e098cddc0d3e6ab8b653afe6c5833f53&_x_zm_rhtaid=371
3) A Look at Programming Languages and Concepts for Blind and Low Vision Coders | APH
April 19th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Thanks to a generous grant from CDW, The American Printing House for the Blind (APH) is proud to offer introductory coding courses for blind and visually impaired youth and adults. These courses are designed to familiarize blind and low vision young adults and adults with basic coding tools, challenges navigating these tools with assistive technology such as screen readers, and techniques for navigating those challenges. Join Florian Beijers, a blind coder, as he guides you through learning the basics of coding in multiple programming languages. This is the second in a series of four courses. This second course takes place Tuesdays in April at 1:00 PM Eastern time. Classes will be April 5, 12, 19, and 26 from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM Eastern daylight time, but all sessions will be recorded and available soon after the live class for those who cannot attend at the scheduled time. If you cannot attend at the scheduled time, please be sure to register for the webinar so that you will receive all emails, including links to the recordings. Pre-requisite knowledge: At least intermediate familiarity with a screen reader with speech and/or braille, or intermediate familiarity with a screen magnification program. Ability to use the internet to accomplish tasks such as searching for and reading information, completing forms, and using keyboard shortcuts to navigate, read, and edit. Ability to follow written instructions to independently download and install programs and extensions. Willingness to participate in the entire course consisting of 4 weekly sessions; each session will last 90 minutes. Willingness to spend at least two hours per week on review and homework. Lesson Plan Goal: Introduce students to multiple coding modalities and how to navigate barriers encountered. Learning Objectives: 1. Identify three reasons to use ARIA and when not to use it. 2. Explain at least three requirements for web accessibility using ARIA. 3. Successfully apply Python basics to at least three coding tasks. 4. Describe use of Python in web application, data science, and automation. 5. Identify at least two obstacles present in the development field for blind and low vision coders, and two strategies to either join a development team or take a software development-related study. Materials Needed: screen reader with speech output or Braille display and/or screen magnification program. Here is the link to register:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_COVPq9ogT96c_X8XbSRPtA
4) Use of Graphs & Charts in Document Remediation | Access Ingenuity
April 20th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Rachel Reeves from Access Ingenuity to look at good and bad examples of bar charts, pie charts, line graphs, and maps in PDF remediation. Learning Outcomes: Review accessible design of graphs and charts. Discuss solutions for common color contrast failures in graphs and charts. Discover best practices when creating alternative text for graphs and charts. Meeting ID: 830 6302 5348 | Passcode: 010786 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83063025348#,,,,*010786# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose). | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83063025348?pwd=cWJ1Mnc2aTFBVlNOM29jOEZwSUZ2UT09
5) Prep and Proof Google Documents Using Spelling and Grammar Features with JAWS
April 21st 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Do you need to proof Google documents more efficiently with JAWS? Want to learn how to access and navigate the spelling and grammar options? Join us Thursday, April 21 at noon Eastern for a live webinar, Prep and Proof Google Documents Using Spelling and Grammar Features with JAWS. We'll provide an overview of the spelling and grammar options Google Docs offers, plus show you how to: Access the spelling and grammar checker using the keyboard. Navigate spelling options. Add a word to your personal dictionary. Access spelling and grammar options from the Tools menu. Check spelling one word at a time using the context menu. Access the dictionary definition of a word. Explore search results for a selected word. ACVREP credits will be available for those who attend the live webinar. Register:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_dbuogL18Qji7zGU4AygHpQ
6) Tactile Graphics Open House | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
April 23rd 2022 | 10:30 AM ET PT, 11:30 AM ET MT, 12:30 PM ET CT, 1:30 PM ET, 5:30 PM GMT | Saturday April 23rd 2022 from 1:30 - 3:00 PM ET. Whether you're new to the concept of images you can explore by touch or a seasoned tactile graphics creator, the Dimensions Lab is here to support you. Come explore our range of graphics embossers, 3D printers, a swell-form machine, a refreshable graphics tablet, and analog tools for tech-free, stress-free accessible drawing. This hands-on event will take place in person: kindly rsvp to ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to reserve your spot!
7) Technology Blogs and Podcasts | Hadley Tech It Out Discussion Group
April 26th 2022 | 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12PM GMT, 4/27 | It's great to know that for every tech topic out there, someone has researched and shared what's available and how to use it. Join us as we explore blogs and podcasts on technology from a blind and low vision perspective:
https://zoom.us/j/468325263?utm_source=sfmc&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Tech+It+Out+Next+Episode+Reminder&utm_term=https%3a%2f%2fzoom.us%2fj%2f468325263&utm_id=30253&sfmc_id=17563849&utm_source=sfmc&utm_term=&utm_content=10757&utm_id=52eff567-e340-4b6c-80f5-9bdaed753c04&sfmc_activityid=949f6754-041a-47e5-9588-dd497c83cebe&utm_medium=email#success
8) A Look at Programming Languages and Concepts for Blind and Low Vision Coders | APH
April 26th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Thanks to a generous grant from CDW, The American Printing House for the Blind (APH) is proud to offer introductory coding courses for blind and visually impaired youth and adults. These courses are designed to familiarize blind and low vision young adults and adults with basic coding tools, challenges navigating these tools with assistive technology such as screen readers, and techniques for navigating those challenges. Join Florian Beijers, a blind coder, as he guides you through learning the basics of coding in multiple programming languages. This is the second in a series of four courses. This second course takes place Tuesdays in April at 1:00 PM Eastern time. Classes will be April 5, 12, 19, and 26 from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM Eastern daylight time, but all sessions will be recorded and available soon after the live class for those who cannot attend at the scheduled time. If you cannot attend at the scheduled time, please be sure to register for the webinar so that you will receive all emails, including links to the recordings. Pre-requisite knowledge: At least intermediate familiarity with a screen reader with speech and/or braille, or intermediate familiarity with a screen magnification program. Ability to use the internet to accomplish tasks such as searching for and reading information, completing forms, and using keyboard shortcuts to navigate, read, and edit. Ability to follow written instructions to independently download and install programs and extensions. Willingness to participate in the entire course consisting of 4 weekly sessions; each session will last 90 minutes. Willingness to spend at least two hours per week on review and homework. Lesson Plan Goal: Introduce students to multiple coding modalities and how to navigate barriers encountered. Learning Objectives: 1. Identify three reasons to use ARIA and when not to use it. 2. Explain at least three requirements for web accessibility using ARIA. 3. Successfully apply Python basics to at least three coding tasks. 4. Describe use of Python in web application, data science, and automation. 5. Identify at least two obstacles present in the development field for blind and low vision coders, and two strategies to either join a development team or take a software development-related study. Materials Needed: screen reader with speech output or Braille display and/or screen magnification program. Here is the link to register:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_COVPq9ogT96c_X8XbSRPtA
9) VPAT® 101: Introduction to the Voluntary Product Accessibility Template
April 27th 2022 | 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? TPGi's webinar will answer those questions and more, and explain how your organization can benefit from a VPAT. Register today:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-april-27-at-12pm-et-vpat-101-introduction-voluntary-product-accessibility-template/
10) Assistive Technology Training, Assessment, Equipment & Accessibility Services: How These Can Benefit You, Your Organization, or Clients | Access Ingenuity
April 27th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Do you need help determining if you or your client needs assistive technology training or if the problem results from the materials not being made accessible? Do you know what type of assistive technology is necessary or if it is required to get an assessment? Join Zhi Huang and Ian Ramos from Access Ingenuity to explore these services and how they can be beneficial. Learning Outcomes: Explore the benefits of assistive technology training. Discuss when you may need an assistive technology assessment versus just getting specific equipment. Compare documents that are not accessible versus documents that are accessible. Meeting ID: 894 9446 0678 | Passcode: 739184 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,89494460678#,,,,*739184# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89494460678?pwd=dTR2ZlBJbWZ6UGJuSU9TNWdBZC9iUT09
11) What Does it Meme?: Understanding and Sharing Visual Culture | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 2nd 2022 | 3PM PT, 4PM MT, 5PM CT, 6PM ET, 10PM GMT | Monday May 2, 6:00 - 7:30 PM Eastern
Memes are a rich part of Internet culture but, usually, they're not accessible to blind and low-vision people. Join us as we dive into the meaning and evolution of memes, and explore how concise, evocative description can create equity of access in digital spaces. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/j/87873411950?pwd=c1gwWTdQV0V1aG1ScG50OTVLUVFudz09#success
12) American Foundation for the Blind Leadership Conference (AFBLC)
May 2nd 2022 through May3rd 2022 | Hyatt Regency Arlington, Virginia. Join us for the American Foundation for the Blind's Leadership Conference (AFBLC), which will take place at the Hyatt Regency, Arlington, Virginia this year. We aim to create a world of no limits for people who are blind. We are committed to putting inclusion to work, which will be a major emphasis of our 2022 AFBLC. AFBLC provides a forum in which leaders from a variety of fields-including research, technology, education, corporations, health and government organizations — have the opportunity to expand their knowledge of best practices, refine leadership skills, identify inclusion practices that work, and share concerns and strategies. The Migel Medal, the highest honor in the blindness field, as well as the Corinne Kirchner Research Award and the newly established Llura Gund Leadership Award will be presented at the AFB Leadership Conference. We look forward to gathering with you to explore the conference themes of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility:
https://www.afb.org/about-afb/events-and-awards/afblc2022?sourceid=&ms=N422JAN2EM3LC&emci=613b769b-b58e-ec11-a507-281878b83d8a&emdi=e828bc7c-418f-ec11-a507-281878b83d8a&ceid=8505425
13) Intro to Facebook with Accessibility in Mind | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 5th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Thursday May 5th 2022 from 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM ET. We'll go over the basics of navigating Facebook with confidence on mobile and the web. Learn how to create posts including links and photos, navigate the News Feed, access important settings, handle messages and more. This hybrid event will take place online and in person. Please RSVP to chanceyfleet@nypl.org 📧️ to attend in person, or register for the Zoom:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAud-6prjIiHNLfBON7AHjHx7b0LE-PELaN?_x_zm_rtaid=O_T4jl2gQk-eJ1vIXaeqDw.1648421599270.e098cddc0d3e6ab8b653afe6c5833f53&_x_zm_rhtaid=371
14) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Beginners | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 7th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) 1:00 - 2:15 PM ET. If you're new to using Voiceover on the iPhone or if you're still working toward confidence, this discussion group is for you. We'll spend some time going over the theory of how screen readers work, gestures everyone needs to know, and some strategies for getting help. Then, we'll open it up for questions and networking. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
15) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Users: Beyond the Basics | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 7th 2022 | 11:30AM PT, 12:30AM, 1:30PM CT, 2:30PM ET, 6:30PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) from 2:30 - 4:00 PM ET. Talk about customizing gestures and settings, exploring new apps, choosing accessories, dealing with bugs, and whatever else comes to mind. This is a space for any and all Voiceover topics that go beyond the basics of using common gestures and built-in apps. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
16) The Web is Inherently Accessible | AccessU 2022 | TPGi
May 10th 2022 | 6:30AM PT, 7:30AM MT, 8:30AM CT, 9:30AM ET, 1:30PM GMT | Rachele DiTullio. Expand your accessibility knowledge by checking out some of the excellent sessions at AccessU. The schedule includes one day of pre-conference workshops followed by three days of live training and Q&A sessions. All times are US Central Time. Join TPGi's accessibility experts as they share their knowledge and present on some excellent topics.
https://knowbility.org/programs/accessu-2022
17) Using the JAWS Screen Reader to Create Better Digital Content | AccessU 2022 | TPGi
May 10th 2022 | 11:45AM PT, 12:45PM MT, 1:45PM CT, 2:45PM ET, 6:45PM GMT | Rachele DiTullio. Expand your accessibility knowledge by checking out some of the excellent sessions at AccessU. The schedule includes one day of pre-conference workshops followed by three days of live training and Q&A sessions. All times are US Central Time. Join TPGi's accessibility experts as they share their knowledge and present on some excellent topics.
https://knowbility.org/programs/accessu-2022
18) Hiring for Cognitive Diversity in Tech | AccessU 2022 | TPGi
May 10th 2022 | 1:30PM PT, 2:30PM MT, 3:30PM CT, 4:30PM ET, 8:30PM GMT | LE Silveus McNamara. Expand your accessibility knowledge by checking out some of the excellent sessions at AccessU. The schedule includes one day of pre-conference workshops followed by three days of live training and Q&A sessions. All times are US Central Time. Join TPGi's accessibility experts as they share their knowledge and present on some excellent topics.
https://knowbility.org/programs/accessu-2022
19) Making Streaming Video Inclusive | AccessU 2022 | TPGi
May 11th 2022 | 6:30AM PT, 7:30AM MT, 8:30AM CT, 9:30AM ET, 1:30PM GMT | Carolina Crespo, Rachele DiTullio, Charu Panhdi. Expand your accessibility knowledge by checking out some of the excellent sessions at AccessU. The schedule includes one day of pre-conference workshops followed by three days of live training and Q&A sessions. All times are US Central Time. Join TPGi's accessibility experts as they share their knowledge and present on some excellent topics.
https://knowbility.org/programs/accessu-2022
20) Premium services using Alexa and Google | Technology User Group
May 14 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. Alexa and Google are adding premium services to their skill set. How do you subscribe to these services and use them?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
21) Where in the World: Accessible Wayfinding and Mapping for iOS | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 18th 2022 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Wednesday May 18th 2022 from 3:00 - 4:30 PM ET. We'll explore accessible mainstream apps like Apple and Google Maps, which can give you walking or transit directions and help you discover points of interest in your city. Plus, we'll explore Microsoft Soundscape and GoodMaps, two apps built to give you precise, accessible guidance. This event will take place in person and online. To attend in person, please RSVP to ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ or register via Zoom to join online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMrcu2rrjkjGd0aaqdPZNDeB4iaC3L06-Lo
22) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Beginners | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 4th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) 1:00 - 2:15 PM ET. If you're new to using Voiceover on the iPhone or if you're still working toward confidence, this discussion group is for you. We'll spend some time going over the theory of how screen readers work, gestures everyone needs to know, and some strategies for getting help. Then, we'll open it up for questions and networking. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
23) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Users: Beyond the Basics | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 4th 2022 | 11:30AM PT, 12:30AM, 1:30PM CT, 2:30PM ET, 6:30PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) from 2:30 - 4:00 PM ET. Talk about customizing gestures and settings, exploring new apps, choosing accessories, dealing with bugs, and whatever else comes to mind. This is a space for any and all Voiceover topics that go beyond the basics of using common gestures and built-in apps. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
24) Using iOS Shortcuts | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 9th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Thursday June 9, 2:00 - 3:30 PM Eastern. Shortcuts can be used to automate tasks and save time. Join us to explore examples of effective shortcuts and learn to create your own. This event will take place in person and online. Email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to RSVP in person, or register to participate online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZElc-itrjgvHNDogsDg6wMe47pOluSIcXYI?_x_zm_rtaid=O_T4jl2gQk-eJ1vIXaeqDw.1648421599270.e098cddc0d3e6ab8b653afe6c5833f53&_x_zm_rhtaid=371
25) Gadgets and Apps for Safe Navigation | Technology User Group
June 11th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. There are many apps and devices that can aid a visually impaired traveler through the unknown. Avoid low-hanging obstacles and other obstructions. Which ones can you afford and which ones offer the best protection?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
26) Tactile Drawing from Still Life | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 11th 2022 | 10:30 AM PT, 11:30 AM MT, 12:30 PM CT, 1:30 PM ET, 5:30 PM GMT | Saturday June 11th 2022 from 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM Eastern In this hands-on workshop, we'll explore still life scenes of 3D objects and then create accessible tactile drawings. A variety of tactile media will be offered. This hands-on event will take place in person. Please email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to RSVP.
27) Intro to Google Translate | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 15th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Wednesday June 15th 2022 from 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM Eastern. Take a deep dive into this powerful cross-platform tool for translation. We'll explore how to translate from speech, text, handwriting and the camera; how to build a list of phrases you use often; and what you need to know about conversational and continuous translation. This event will take place in person and online. Email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to attend in person, or register to participate online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZElc-itrjgvHNDogsDg6wMe47pOluSIcXYI?_x_zm_rtaid=5aP3v6sNTtuCFyUfVDXxaQ.1648429186785.e6167c6b9ddb64d3c5052fc57b1d89aa&_x_zm_rhtaid=506
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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 iPhone SE 2020 64 G Product Red
Listing Date: 3/24/2022 | Price: $225.00 USD | Condition: Gently used. | Description: This iPhone has been reset and is fully unlocked and ready to be set up. It has a glass screen protector and also will send extra one. It has a clear case and also blue case. Will be sent in its original box with charging cable and charging block. | Contact: Debra via Email at: dbrummer17@yahoo.com 📧️ or by phone at:(785) 249-5473 📱️. |
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!
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/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
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)
➜ Start Your Coding Journey Today with APH's Road to Code!
Want to learn more about coding but don't know where to start? Look no further! APH's Road to Code provides a roadmap for coding progression through all our fun and engaging coding products.
https://bit.ly/3HueRfI
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:
1. Our newest leather waistpack design; 17.5 inches long by 8 inches deep by 3 inches wide; 7 pockets plus RFID protection and a built in cane holder for up to a 15 inch model, $50. 2. Our Hermione bottomless leather cross-body shoulder bag is a perfect fit, with padded protection for the forty cell mantis q40 keyboard, with lots of room for the rest of your essentials: $70.00. We plan to exhibit at both summer conventions with all of our leather, dog, and gadget products. | For more info or to order, call Barry at (617) 969-7500 📱️ | bscheur@scheur.com 📧️ or Kae at (781) 286-1696 📱️ | guidelightdogs@gmail.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
➜ 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
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
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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
The DannyBoy Portable Stand holds your Smart Phone stationary so it's camera can view items and documents clearly providing stability for excellent recognition & clarity. Take perfect pictures and scan images. Read documents quickly and easily. Great for anyone with motor disabilities, too! Made with the Blind In Mind! Lightweight & Portable. Ready To Use or Collapses In Seconds. Read All About the DannyBoy Portable Stand at DannyBoy.com in BlindMiceMegaMall.com at:
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
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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
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
➜ The FREE, Virtual 2022 National Coding Symposium is Back, May 9-May 13, 2022
APH invites students, parents, and teachers to learn how the world of coding, programming, and related careers are available and accessible to students who are blind and visually impaired. Learn more and register for the 2022 National Coding Symposium now!
https://aphconnectcenter.org/coding/?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=Paid+Traffic+%28Google+Ads%29&utm_campaign=2022_Coding_Symposium
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.
Your Name Here
0 of 12 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 0 of 12 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, April 7, 2022 - Volume 853
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.
Subscribers: 7,163 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email.
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.) New Website Offers 200 Accessible Windows Programs (11% of all clicks.)
https://www.laufware.com/
B.) Using Ribbons to Control Program Functions in Microsoft Windows (6.3% of all clicks.)
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/65.html
C.) CSUN Presentations (5.6% of all clicks.)
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1Tgmba0L6Z0BkHu9Hb3jlZ3IweguAdrja649rzk8X_Dk/htmlview#gid=407013666
D.) JAWS Power Tip: How To Ignore Inline Frames on Web Pages (4.9% of all clicks.)
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/66.html
E.) Hadley Free Technology Workshops (3.6% of all clicks.)
https://hadley.edu/learn?topic_id=14
2) Top Tech Tidbits Publisher Updates for April 7th 2022
Just a few quick progress updates for all members of the Tidbits community. These are just general updates for the week of April 7th 2022. Topics include: "Sponsorship Package Availability", "Get Your Media Bar Out Of My Zoom" and "So Many Webinars:"
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/68.html
3) Metaverse, NFT's, Crypto and Web 3.0 | What Do They Mean for an Accessible Future? | YouTube | Double Tap TV | March 29th 2022
There are a lot of buzz words in the tech space: Metaverse, NFT's, Crypto and Web 3.0. We try to break it down and define Web 3.0 in plain English and determine what it might mean for an accessible future:
https://bit.ly/321OUEy
4) Fusion Power Tip: Saving Your Settings by Default
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/67.html
5) AccessWorld March 2022
March updates include: Accessible Science: Chemistry 101 | Reading AccessWorld Made Easy | Solve the Outbreak, Blind Drive, and BattleFruit: A Review of Three Accessible Games:
https://www.afb.org/aw/23/3
6) Adaptations Monthly: A New Newsletter From the San Francisco Lighthouse For The Blind's Adaptations Store
Adaptations Monthly is a newsletter launched by the San Francisco Lighthouse. This first edition discusses the Versa Slate. The following link will take you to the newsletter's first issue where you will also find a subscribe link if you'd like to subscribe to their newsletter:
https://mailchi.mp/cbac1b17ea27/adaptations-online-store-now-open-896827?e=2601ff5be9
7) How To Enable/Disable Colorblind Mode On Windows 10
The Windows 10 Ease of Access page in the Settings app gives you all the options to set color filters and turn on colorblind-specific modes:
https://www.bollyinside.com/articles/how-to-enable-disable-colorblind-mode-on-windows-10-pc/
8) How to Get the Transcript of a YouTube Video
Closed captions are a handy feature on YouTube, but they only appear in real-time along with the video. You can get a transcript of those captions to read at your own speed. It works on desktops, iPhones, and Android:
https://www.howtogeek.com/793947/how-to-get-the-transcript-of-a-youtube-video/
9) The First Drug-Releasing Contact Lens Is Here
The FDA has approved daily disposables that release anti-allergy medication. Experts hope lenses could one day help treat cataracts and glaucoma:
https://www.wired.com/story/the-first-drug-releasing-contact-lens-is-here/
10) New iPhone App Enables Blind to Translate Braille to Text
If you ever thought about learning Braille or just wanted to quickly translate something written in UEB to your iPhone, there's a new app that can help you with that. Braille Scanner allows users to take a photo of a piece of paper with Braille on it using their iPhones and have it translated into text:
https://iphonearena.com/new-iphone-app-enables-blind-to-translate-braille-to-text/
11) #CSUNATC22 Audio: Developing With A Braille First Design For The HIMS Braille Sense 6 Mini
https://www.blindbargains.com/bargains.php?m=22185
12) New Experiences In Windows 11 And Windows 365 Empower New Ways Of Working
This week Microsoft announced new features coming to Windows 11. From an accessibility perspective, the biggest change is that Live Captions is coming to the operating system. Users will be able to turn on captions for any audio with spoken word playing from their computer. Here is the full list of changes:
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2022/04/05/new-experiences-in-windows-11-and-windows-365-empower-new-ways-of-working/
13) How To Enable Auto-Generated Image Labels On Microsoft Edge
Speaking of accessibility enhancements by Microsoft, Cool Blind Tech has instructions on turning on auto-generated alternative text for images in Edge, Microsoft's own web browser:
https://coolblindtech.com/how-to-enable-auto-generated-image-labels-on-microsoft-edge/
14) This Motor Attachment From Bird Turns Manual Wheelchairs Electric
We are not sure how well this wheelchair attachment would work, but it is good to see that transportation companies are considering accessibility. If you are in New York and have feedback on its use, please feel free to write and let us know:
https://www.fastcompany.com/90734740/this-motor-attachment-from-bird-turns-manual-wheelchairs-electric
15) What Is Bixby and What Can You Do With It on Your Samsung Phone?
If you have a Samsung phone, check out everything Bixby can do. Here's a look at its most useful features, like Bixby Voice and Bixby Routines:
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/what-is-bixby-how-to-use-bixby/
16) How To Get Alexa To Tell You About Amazon Deals Before They Go Live
According to Amazon, Alexa will notify Prime members when eligible products in their wish list or shopping cart - or even items they've "saved for later" - are on sale. You will then be able to ask Alexa to order the items when the deal is live or send a reminder. It's unclear which products will be "eligible" - like whether they're items sold by Amazon or third parties. Still, it's a neat feature for bargain hunters:
https://www.pocket-lint.com/apps/news/amazon/160628-how-to-get-alexa-to-tell-you-about-amazon-deals-in-advance
17) AppleVis Unlimited: What's New and Noteworthy for March 2022
https://www.applevis.com/newsletter/applevis-unlimited-whats-new-noteworthy-march-2022
18) The iPhone SE 3: A More Practical Phone for Some Use Cases | Scott Davert | AppleVis
This review was completed after 10 days of use. Most of my comparison will be with the iPhone SE 2, since that was the phone I had been using previously. For the sake of clarity, when referring to the previous generation of iPhone SE released in 2020, it will be referred to as the iPhone SE 2. Apple refers to the current model of iPhone SE simply by that name. This was also true of the first and second generation:
https://www.applevis.com/comment/134125#comment-134125
19) WCAG, But In Language I Can Understand
Here a single article sums up each success criterion in WCAG 2.1 in as close to a single paragraph as possible. It's purpose being to help you get your head around what each rule is driving at:
https://www.tempertemper.net/blog/wcag-but-in-language-i-can-understand
20) Hadley Workshop Spotlight: Restaurant Dining Tips and Tricks
Discover some tips and tricks for dining out at restaurants confidently and independently, no matter your level of vision, in the following workshop:
https://hadley.edu/workshops/dining-out-series/restaurant-dining-tips-and-tricks
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) AccessReady Reporter | Issue 25 | March 31st 2022
The Reporter Newsletter is a service of Access Ready Inc. which is an independent, non-profit, cross-disability education and advocacy organization promoting a policy of inclusion and accessibility of information and communications technology (ICT). For people with disabilities, accessible information and communications technology is a necessity, not a luxury or a convenience, which fosters independence, economic self-sufficiency, and active, meaningful participation in civic life:.
https://accessreadyreporter.org/issue-25-march-31-2022.html
2) AFB Research Into How COVID-19 Impacted Adults Who Are Blind, Have Low Vision, or Are Deafblind
In April 2020, in the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States, the American Foundation for the Blind took the lead in the Flatten Inaccessibility study. The purpose of the study was to learn how those who were blind or have low vision were affected early on by the pandemic:
https://www.afb.org/research-and-initiatives/covid-19-research
3) You Should Be Following More Disability Activists. Here's Where To Begin.
The Verge has compiled some disability activists on various social media sites:
https://mashable.com/article/disability-activists-social-media-accounts-to-follow
4) White House Hires Full-Time ASL Interpreters For First Time
CBS has the story of the Whitehouse's first full-time ASI (American Sign Language Interpreter):
https://www-cbsnews-com.cdn.ampproject.org/c/s/www.cbsnews.com/amp/news/white-house-hires-asl-sign-interpreters-deaf-community/#app
5) The WebAIM Million — 2022 Update
The 2022 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 characteristics, such as by top-level domain, document language, site category/sector, and technologies in use. The WAVE web accessibility testing tool was used to analyze the 1,000,000 home pages:
https://webaim.org/blog/webaim-million-2022/
6) Book Teaches Students Who Are Blind The Importance Of Sexual Knowledge
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and American Printing House for the Blind (APH) is committed to spreading awareness about this sensitive and important topic. APH continues to provide resources to educate teachers, and those who instruct students, on the importance of knowing and understanding safe touch and sexual education. APH's book, Health Education for Students with Visual Impairments: A Guidebook for Teachers, aims to educate instructors of students about sexual information:
https://newzhook.com/story/book-teaches-students-who-are-blind-importance-of-sexual-knowledge-aph/
7) The Road to Visual Prosthesis: A Timeline
Visual prosthesis technology has come a long way since early experiments with optical cortex implants that began in the 1960s. Commercially available visual prosthetics are available today, but they can only restore limited vision with a low spatial resolution. Challenges like biocompatibility or cost remain significant barriers:
https://www.technologynetworks.com/tn/articles/the-road-to-visual-prosthesis-a-timeline-359817
8) The Most Fully Accessible Amusement Park In The U.S. To Be Built In Missouri
Developers hope to break ground in 2023 on an amusement park outside St. Louis that they are calling the most innovative and fully accessible park in the world:
https://www.travelawaits.com/2745332/spirit-of-discovery-park-to-open-in-wentzville-missouri-in-2023/
9) Opinion | Accessibility: Always an Afterthought
Stanford's Disability Community Space (DCS) opened last week, a monumental change that disability advocates — including myself — have been fighting for, for years. We had a virtual opening, in which people played games, talked, and reveled in the long-sought reward for our efforts. Various administrators showed up on Zoom to bask in the roles they had played in the process:
https://stanforddaily.com/2022/03/30/opinion-accessibility-always-an-afterthought/
10) Check It Out: The Official Site of the National Beep Baseball Association | NBBA.org Homepage
Welcome to the National Beep Baseball Association: facilitating and providing the adaptive version of America's favorite pastime for the blind, low-vision and legally blind since 1976. This is your primary source and home to find information about the game of beep baseball, so take a peek:
https://www.nbba.org/
11) Fish And Game Commission Moves To Allow Blind Idaho Hunters To Use Adaptive Technology
The Idaho Fish and Game Commission on March 24th 2022 moved forward with a rule change that could allow visually impaired hunters to use adaptive technology they say is crucial for them to be able to hunt safely:
https://www.spokesman.com/stories/2022/mar/31/fish-and-game-commission-moves-to-allow-blind-idah/
12) Employment Insights with the NRTC
The NRTC on Blindness and Low Vision is committed to enhancing employment outcomes for people with vision loss. Whether you are navigating the vocational rehabilitation process, just beginning to consider careers, or seeking to gain or maintain employment, our webinars and podcasts are designed to help you along your journey. Our training staff will provide interactive and informative webinars and stimulating podcasts that will include knowledgeable guests. Check this page for announcements about upcoming webinars, postings of recordings of past webinars, and releases of new podcasts:
https://www.ntac.blind.msstate.edu/consumers/webinars-podcasts
13) Dan Parker, a Blind Man, Breaks Driving Speed Record
Dan Parker, a blind racecar driver, achieved the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS® title for the "Fastest Speed for a Car Driven Blindfolded" on Thursday, March 31st 2022. Dan set a new speed record of 211.043 miles per hour while blindfolded on the runway at Spaceport America in his custom-built Corvette, which included an innovative audio guidance system he designed:
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/dan-parker-a-blind-man-breaks-driving-speed-record-301518060.html
14) Engineering School Enhancing STEM Education For Blind Students
Through an elective class at the University of Louisville Speed School of Engineering, students are developing educational models to enhance STEM education for blind or visually impaired students:
https://www.kentuckytoday.com/news/engineering-school-enhancing-stem-education-for-blind-students/article_9202ce98-b1c3-11ec-aaf7-bf13f9e4ded0.html
15) Bringing Website Accessibility Lawsuits in New York Just Got a Little Harder for Repeat Plaintiffs
A recent Second Circuit decision holds that a plaintiff's encounter with an alleged legal violation on a website, without more, does not give that plaintiff standing to sue under Title III of the ADA:
https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/bringing-website-accessibility-lawsuits-4365328/
➜ Surveys
1) Survey | Help Researchers To Understand The Audio Perception Behavior of People With Visual Impairments
April 25th 2022 deadline to submit. | Hello. We are researchers from Indiana University Bloomington conducting an online survey to understand the audio perception behavior of people with visual impairments. I am inviting you to take part in a 25-30 minutes online survey from a place of your convenience. To participate in the survey, you must identify as visually impaired, must have normal hearing, and should be a native or bilingual speaker of English. You need to have access to a computer or laptop with a screen-reader and Internet connection. You should use headphones and should complete the survey in a quiet environment. For your participation, you will be paid $5 by an Amazon e-gift card. You will receive the URL link of the e-gift card within 3-5 business days after your participation. If you are interested in participating in our survey or have any questions about the study, please fill out the sign-up form below. Once you provide the details, one researcher will contact you via email or phone and send you the web link to participate in the survey. Alternatively, you may email Taslima Akter at takter@iu.edu 📧️. Please click here to sign up:
https://iu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bCt4WOvUkJworBA
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) The Inside Scoop on Hadley's Discussion Groups
April 1st 2022 2022 | We're joined by Carol Mackey, an avid discussion group participant, and co-host Debbie Worman to chat about what Hadley groups are, how to join, and what you can get out of them. With 10 groups on a variety of topics, there's something for everyone. Listen in or chime in — it's up to you:
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/inside-scoop-hadleys-discussion-groups
2) Blind Android Users 69 | Notifications Settings and More
April 2nd 2022 | This week we talk about the just released OnePlus 10 Pro. Then we talk about how to get a control on your notifications. We show controlling notifications per app and also via notifications settings. For our app of the week, we demo Nekogram which is an alternative and more accessible version of the native Telegram app. In our Talkback Highlights we show how to pause and resume speech. Our podcast can be found on all popular podcasting platforms, on smart speakers and on YouTube at:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqrrrbdxe9FVQHMrX0dC1Myv
3) Eyes on Success 2214 Bookshare Reader for Smart Speakers
April 6th 2022 | Bookshare makes books available to people with reading disabilities in a number of digital formats. Now you can listen to any of the over 1,000,000 titles in their collection on your smart speaker. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Hema Natarajan who heads Bookshare's product and reading projects about new initiatives at Bookshare:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202214.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Grocery Delivery Services and Websites | Technology User Group
April 9th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. Yes, there are plenty of delivery services and if you are a tech guru, you have access to all of it. But what if you don't have those skills and still need grocery delivery?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
2) Descriptive Origami | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
April 9th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Saturday April 9th 2022 from 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM ET. We'll use effective verbal communication and teamwork to learn origami models like a lotus, a goldfish and a card holder. This hands-on event will take place in person: Kindly RSVP to ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to reserve your spot!
3) 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
4) 13th Annual CUNY Accessibility Conference
April 11th, 12th, 13th and 14th 2022 | Four Day Virtual Event. The State of Accessibility: Are We Living Up to the Promise of Compliance and the Law? Each year, the CUNY Accessibility Conference brings together hundreds of participants from the New York City region and across North America to discuss accessibility, disability services and disability activism in the context of postsecondary education. Two years after the start of an unprecedented pandemic and resultant transitions nationwide, we are returning to our foundation. The conference theme for 2022 is The State of Accessibility: Are we living up to the promise of compliance and the law? With this theme we hope to reflect topics such as on meeting the promise, falling short, advancements the law did not anticipate, and moving beyond a legal framework of accessibility. Submit your Proposal. Proposals are due by February 21st. Presentations will be 60 minutes long along with an extra 15 minutes for questions and answers (total 75 minutes). You will be notified by the committee regarding the acceptance of your proposal by March 8th. For questions, please email Tania Kalaitzidis at akalaitzidis@qcc.cuny.edu 📧️. Please fill out our Call for Proposals form at:
https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=s_BgbwZfCU6XFZiduozH2I_mhufqVMhKkF6nbAPJwLhUNUE3RTEwMDg3TkVMM1lPTUhCNVRKUjhFVyQlQCN0PWcu
5) A Look at Programming Languages and Concepts for Blind and Low Vision Coders | APH
April 12th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Thanks to a generous grant from CDW, The American Printing House for the Blind (APH) is proud to offer introductory coding courses for blind and visually impaired youth and adults. These courses are designed to familiarize blind and low vision young adults and adults with basic coding tools, challenges navigating these tools with assistive technology such as screen readers, and techniques for navigating those challenges. Join Florian Beijers, a blind coder, as he guides you through learning the basics of coding in multiple programming languages. This is the second in a series of four courses. This second course takes place Tuesdays in April at 1:00 PM Eastern time. Classes will be April 5, 12, 19, and 26 from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM Eastern daylight time, but all sessions will be recorded and available soon after the live class for those who cannot attend at the scheduled time. If you cannot attend at the scheduled time, please be sure to register for the webinar so that you will receive all emails, including links to the recordings. Pre-requisite knowledge: At least intermediate familiarity with a screen reader with speech and/or braille, or intermediate familiarity with a screen magnification program. Ability to use the internet to accomplish tasks such as searching for and reading information, completing forms, and using keyboard shortcuts to navigate, read, and edit. Ability to follow written instructions to independently download and install programs and extensions. Willingness to participate in the entire course consisting of 4 weekly sessions; each session will last 90 minutes. Willingness to spend at least two hours per week on review and homework. Lesson Plan Goal: Introduce students to multiple coding modalities and how to navigate barriers encountered. Learning Objectives: 1. Identify three reasons to use ARIA and when not to use it. 2. Explain at least three requirements for web accessibility using ARIA. 3. Successfully apply Python basics to at least three coding tasks. 4. Describe use of Python in web application, data science, and automation. 5. Identify at least two obstacles present in the development field for blind and low vision coders, and two strategies to either join a development team or take a software development-related study. Materials Needed: screen reader with speech output or Braille display and/or screen magnification program. Here is the link to register:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_COVPq9ogT96c_X8XbSRPtA
6) Using Dictation with Braille Displays on iOS | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
April 13th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Wednesday April 13th 2022 from 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM ET. Many of us use built-in dictation as well as various transcription apps. We may do it to save time, transcribe long recordings, work with translation, or make communication more effective when someone has a speech or hearing impairment. In this workshop, we'll explore the best practices for getting dictation to work well with Braille displays, and highlight the performance of Braille on various dictation and transcription apps. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYtc-CvpzsrGtNOa3JK8Luv74JhKgWmjN6q?_x_zm_rtaid=O_T4jl2gQk-eJ1vIXaeqDw.1648421599270.e098cddc0d3e6ab8b653afe6c5833f53&_x_zm_rhtaid=371
7) Features of the ONYX PRO (ACVREP CE Approved) | Access Ingenuity
April 13th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Turn your Microsoft� Surface Pro 7 into a magnifier and screen reader with the ONYX� PRO. Join Ian Ramos from Access Ingenuity and Joe McDaniel from Vispero as they dive into the features of this exciting new product. The ONYX PRO uses a USB cable to connect to a Surface Pro 7 and magnifies objects, text, or images, and when in OCR mode, you can follow the text in high-contrast colors on the tablet screen. 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. The ONYX PRO is great for reading books, magazines, mail, and more! Thanks to its lightweight design and handle, you can pick it up and use it wherever you want, from classroom to classroom or office to home. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: How the ONYX PRO incorporates two low-vision technologies. Different uses of the ONYX PRO. How it differs from the other ONYX models. Why having OCR in a portable unit can be a game-changer. Meeting ID: 849 3427 9185 | Passcode: 305981 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,84934279185#,,,,*305981# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose). | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84934279185?pwd=Um81Mi84R3VVMzROV1RpS1hlaGVqdz09
8) When Do I Need to Upgrade My Magnifier? | Vispero
April 14th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Join us on Thursday, April 14, 2022, at noon ET for a frank discussion on when it might be time to graduate to your next video magnifier. What are some of the indicators to making a change? Has your field of view changed? Do you notice more glare while using your magnifier? Is your reading time with your current magnifier being reduced due to eye fatigue? These are some of the indicators that it might be time to change your magnifier. Objectives: Managing your field of view. Learn how to reduce glare and eye fatigue. When should you incorporate Scanning and Reading (Optical Character Recognition). Vispero Presenters: Mike Wood and Michelle Williams. Product Giveaway: One lucky winner will receive a $500 voucher good toward the purchase of any Freedom Scientific, Optelec, or Enhanced Vision product. This offer is open to U.S. attendees only. You must be present at the time of the drawing to win. ACVREP credits will be available for those who attend the live webinar. Register:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_wYNsgLknSy2t_SXaPX4Qjw
9) Braille Screen Input for iOS, Android and Kindle Fire | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
April 16th 2022 | 10:30 AM PT, 11:30 PM MT, 12:30 PM CT, 1:30 PM ET, 5:30 PM GMT | Saturday April 16th 2022 from 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM. If you know Braille (even if you don't know contractions), you can type comfortably and quickly with Braille screen input. In this workshop, we'll explore how to set it up, gestures you need to know, and what you can do if you're having trouble with this feature. This event will take place in person and online. Please RSVP to ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to attend in person, or register to participate online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIvce6orT0rE9HcMP5mm-hGq63YfZfdmloq?_x_zm_rtaid=O_T4jl2gQk-eJ1vIXaeqDw.1648421599270.e098cddc0d3e6ab8b653afe6c5833f53&_x_zm_rhtaid=371
10) A Look at Programming Languages and Concepts for Blind and Low Vision Coders | APH
April 19th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Thanks to a generous grant from CDW, The American Printing House for the Blind (APH) is proud to offer introductory coding courses for blind and visually impaired youth and adults. These courses are designed to familiarize blind and low vision young adults and adults with basic coding tools, challenges navigating these tools with assistive technology such as screen readers, and techniques for navigating those challenges. Join Florian Beijers, a blind coder, as he guides you through learning the basics of coding in multiple programming languages. This is the second in a series of four courses. This second course takes place Tuesdays in April at 1:00 PM Eastern time. Classes will be April 5, 12, 19, and 26 from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM Eastern daylight time, but all sessions will be recorded and available soon after the live class for those who cannot attend at the scheduled time. If you cannot attend at the scheduled time, please be sure to register for the webinar so that you will receive all emails, including links to the recordings. Pre-requisite knowledge: At least intermediate familiarity with a screen reader with speech and/or braille, or intermediate familiarity with a screen magnification program. Ability to use the internet to accomplish tasks such as searching for and reading information, completing forms, and using keyboard shortcuts to navigate, read, and edit. Ability to follow written instructions to independently download and install programs and extensions. Willingness to participate in the entire course consisting of 4 weekly sessions; each session will last 90 minutes. Willingness to spend at least two hours per week on review and homework. Lesson Plan Goal: Introduce students to multiple coding modalities and how to navigate barriers encountered. Learning Objectives: 1. Identify three reasons to use ARIA and when not to use it. 2. Explain at least three requirements for web accessibility using ARIA. 3. Successfully apply Python basics to at least three coding tasks. 4. Describe use of Python in web application, data science, and automation. 5. Identify at least two obstacles present in the development field for blind and low vision coders, and two strategies to either join a development team or take a software development-related study. Materials Needed: screen reader with speech output or Braille display and/or screen magnification program. Here is the link to register:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_COVPq9ogT96c_X8XbSRPtA
11) Use of Graphs & Charts in Document Remediation | Access Ingenuity
April 20th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join Rachel Reeves from Access Ingenuity to look at good and bad examples of bar charts, pie charts, line graphs, and maps in PDF remediation. Learning Outcomes: Review accessible design of graphs and charts. Discuss solutions for common color contrast failures in graphs and charts. Discover best practices when creating alternative text for graphs and charts. Meeting ID: 830 6302 5348 | Passcode: 010786 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83063025348#,,,,*010786# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose). | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83063025348?pwd=cWJ1Mnc2aTFBVlNOM29jOEZwSUZ2UT09
12) Prep and Proof Google Documents Using Spelling and Grammar Features with JAWS
April 21st 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Do you need to proof Google documents more efficiently with JAWS? Want to learn how to access and navigate the spelling and grammar options? Join us Thursday, April 21 at noon Eastern for a live webinar, Prep and Proof Google Documents Using Spelling and Grammar Features with JAWS. We'll provide an overview of the spelling and grammar options Google Docs offers, plus show you how to: Access the spelling and grammar checker using the keyboard. Navigate spelling options. Add a word to your personal dictionary. Access spelling and grammar options from the Tools menu. Check spelling one word at a time using the context menu. Access the dictionary definition of a word. Explore search results for a selected word. ACVREP credits will be available for those who attend the live webinar. Register:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_dbuogL18Qji7zGU4AygHpQ
13) Tactile Graphics Open House | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
April 23rd 2022 | 10:30 AM ET PT, 11:30 AM ET MT, 12:30 PM ET CT, 1:30 PM ET, 5:30 PM GMT | Saturday April 23rd 2022 from 1:30 - 3:00 PM ET. Whether you're new to the concept of images you can explore by touch or a seasoned tactile graphics creator, the Dimensions Lab is here to support you. Come explore our range of graphics embossers, 3D printers, a swell-form machine, a refreshable graphics tablet, and analog tools for tech-free, stress-free accessible drawing. This hands-on event will take place in person: kindly rsvp to ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to reserve your spot!
14) Technology Blogs and Podcasts | Hadley Tech It Out Discussion Group
April 26th 2022 | 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12PM GMT, 4/27 | It's great to know that for every tech topic out there, someone has researched and shared what's available and how to use it. Join us as we explore blogs and podcasts on technology from a blind and low vision perspective:
https://zoom.us/j/468325263?utm_source=sfmc&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Tech+It+Out+Next+Episode+Reminder&utm_term=https%3a%2f%2fzoom.us%2fj%2f468325263&utm_id=30253&sfmc_id=17563849&utm_source=sfmc&utm_term=&utm_content=10757&utm_id=52eff567-e340-4b6c-80f5-9bdaed753c04&sfmc_activityid=949f6754-041a-47e5-9588-dd497c83cebe&utm_medium=email#success
15) A Look at Programming Languages and Concepts for Blind and Low Vision Coders | APH
April 26th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Thanks to a generous grant from CDW, The American Printing House for the Blind (APH) is proud to offer introductory coding courses for blind and visually impaired youth and adults. These courses are designed to familiarize blind and low vision young adults and adults with basic coding tools, challenges navigating these tools with assistive technology such as screen readers, and techniques for navigating those challenges. Join Florian Beijers, a blind coder, as he guides you through learning the basics of coding in multiple programming languages. This is the second in a series of four courses. This second course takes place Tuesdays in April at 1:00 PM Eastern time. Classes will be April 5, 12, 19, and 26 from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM Eastern daylight time, but all sessions will be recorded and available soon after the live class for those who cannot attend at the scheduled time. If you cannot attend at the scheduled time, please be sure to register for the webinar so that you will receive all emails, including links to the recordings. Pre-requisite knowledge: At least intermediate familiarity with a screen reader with speech and/or braille, or intermediate familiarity with a screen magnification program. Ability to use the internet to accomplish tasks such as searching for and reading information, completing forms, and using keyboard shortcuts to navigate, read, and edit. Ability to follow written instructions to independently download and install programs and extensions. Willingness to participate in the entire course consisting of 4 weekly sessions; each session will last 90 minutes. Willingness to spend at least two hours per week on review and homework. Lesson Plan Goal: Introduce students to multiple coding modalities and how to navigate barriers encountered. Learning Objectives: 1. Identify three reasons to use ARIA and when not to use it. 2. Explain at least three requirements for web accessibility using ARIA. 3. Successfully apply Python basics to at least three coding tasks. 4. Describe use of Python in web application, data science, and automation. 5. Identify at least two obstacles present in the development field for blind and low vision coders, and two strategies to either join a development team or take a software development-related study. Materials Needed: screen reader with speech output or Braille display and/or screen magnification program. Here is the link to register:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_COVPq9ogT96c_X8XbSRPtA
16) VPAT® 101: Introduction to the Voluntary Product Accessibility Template
April 27th 2022 | 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? TPGi's webinar will answer those questions and more, and explain how your organization can benefit from a VPAT. Register today:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-april-27-at-12pm-et-vpat-101-introduction-voluntary-product-accessibility-template/
17) Assistive Technology Training, Assessment, Equipment & Accessibility Services: How These Can Benefit You, Your Organization, or Clients | Access Ingenuity
April 27th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Do you need help determining if you or your client needs assistive technology training or if the problem results from the materials not being made accessible? Do you know what type of assistive technology is necessary or if it is required to get an assessment? Join Zhi Huang and Ian Ramos from Access Ingenuity to explore these services and how they can be beneficial. Learning Outcomes: Explore the benefits of assistive technology training. Discuss when you may need an assistive technology assessment versus just getting specific equipment. Compare documents that are not accessible versus documents that are accessible. Meeting ID: 894 9446 0678 | Passcode: 739184 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,89494460678#,,,,*739184# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89494460678?pwd=dTR2ZlBJbWZ6UGJuSU9TNWdBZC9iUT09
18) What Does it Meme?: Understanding and Sharing Visual Culture | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 2nd 2022 | 3PM PT, 4PM MT, 5PM CT, 6PM ET, 10PM GMT | Monday May 2, 6:00 - 7:30 PM Eastern
Memes are a rich part of Internet culture but, usually, they're not accessible to blind and low-vision people. Join us as we dive into the meaning and evolution of memes, and explore how concise, evocative description can create equity of access in digital spaces. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/j/87873411950?pwd=c1gwWTdQV0V1aG1ScG50OTVLUVFudz09#success
19) American Foundation for the Blind Leadership Conference (AFBLC)
May 2nd 2022 through May3rd 2022 | Hyatt Regency Arlington, Virginia. Join us for the American Foundation for the Blind's Leadership Conference (AFBLC), which will take place at the Hyatt Regency, Arlington, Virginia this year. We aim to create a world of no limits for people who are blind. We are committed to putting inclusion to work, which will be a major emphasis of our 2022 AFBLC. AFBLC provides a forum in which leaders from a variety of fields-including research, technology, education, corporations, health and government organizations-have the opportunity to expand their knowledge of best practices, refine leadership skills, identify inclusion practices that work, and share concerns and strategies. The Migel Medal, the highest honor in the blindness field, as well as the Corinne Kirchner Research Award and the newly established Llura Gund Leadership Award will be presented at the AFB Leadership Conference. We look forward to gathering with you to explore the conference themes of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility:
https://www.afb.org/about-afb/events-and-awards/afblc2022?sourceid=&ms=N422JAN2EM3LC&emci=613b769b-b58e-ec11-a507-281878b83d8a&emdi=e828bc7c-418f-ec11-a507-281878b83d8a&ceid=8505425
20) Intro to Facebook with Accessibility in Mind | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 5th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Thursday May 5th 2022 from 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM ET. We'll go over the basics of navigating Facebook with confidence on mobile and the web. Learn how to create posts including links and photos, navigate the News Feed, access important settings, handle messages and more. This hybrid event will take place online and in person. Please RSVP to chanceyfleet@nypl.org 📧️ to attend in person, or register for the Zoom:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAud-6prjIiHNLfBON7AHjHx7b0LE-PELaN?_x_zm_rtaid=O_T4jl2gQk-eJ1vIXaeqDw.1648421599270.e098cddc0d3e6ab8b653afe6c5833f53&_x_zm_rhtaid=371
21) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Beginners | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 7th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) 1:00 - 2:15 PM ET. If you're new to using Voiceover on the iPhone or if you're still working toward confidence, this discussion group is for you. We'll spend some time going over the theory of how screen readers work, gestures everyone needs to know, and some strategies for getting help. Then, we'll open it up for questions and networking. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
22) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Users: Beyond the Basics | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 7th 2022 | 11:30AM PT, 12:30AM, 1:30PM CT, 2:30PM ET, 6:30PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) from 2:30 - 4:00 PM ET. Talk about customizing gestures and settings, exploring new apps, choosing accessories, dealing with bugs, and whatever else comes to mind. This is a space for any and all Voiceover topics that go beyond the basics of using common gestures and built-in apps. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
23) The Web is Inherently Accessible | AccessU 2022 | TPGi
May 10th 2022 | 6:30AM PT, 7:30AM MT, 8:30AM CT, 9:30AM ET, 1:30PM GMT | Rachele DiTullio. Expand your accessibility knowledge by checking out some of the excellent sessions at AccessU. The schedule includes one day of pre-conference workshops followed by three days of live training and Q&A sessions. All times are US Central Time. Join TPGi's accessibility experts as they share their knowledge and present on some excellent topics.
https://knowbility.org/programs/accessu-2022
24) Using the JAWS Screen Reader to Create Better Digital Content | AccessU 2022 | TPGi
May 10th 2022 | 11:45AM PT, 12:45PM MT, 1:45PM CT, 2:45PM ET, 6:45PM GMT | Rachele DiTullio. Expand your accessibility knowledge by checking out some of the excellent sessions at AccessU. The schedule includes one day of pre-conference workshops followed by three days of live training and Q&A sessions. All times are US Central Time. Join TPGi's accessibility experts as they share their knowledge and present on some excellent topics.
https://knowbility.org/programs/accessu-2022
25) Hiring for Cognitive Diversity in Tech | AccessU 2022 | TPGi
May 10th 2022 | 1:30PM PT, 2:30PM MT, 3:30PM CT, 4:30PM ET, 8:30PM GMT | LE Silveus McNamara. Expand your accessibility knowledge by checking out some of the excellent sessions at AccessU. The schedule includes one day of pre-conference workshops followed by three days of live training and Q&A sessions. All times are US Central Time. Join TPGi's accessibility experts as they share their knowledge and present on some excellent topics.
https://knowbility.org/programs/accessu-2022
26) Making Streaming Video Inclusive | AccessU 2022 | TPGi
May 11th 2022 | 6:30AM PT, 7:30AM MT, 8:30AM CT, 9:30AM ET, 1:30PM GMT | Carolina Crespo, Rachele DiTullio, Charu Panhdi. Expand your accessibility knowledge by checking out some of the excellent sessions at AccessU. The schedule includes one day of pre-conference workshops followed by three days of live training and Q&A sessions. All times are US Central Time. Join TPGi's accessibility experts as they share their knowledge and present on some excellent topics.
https://knowbility.org/programs/accessu-2022
27) Premium services using Alexa and Google | Technology User Group
May 14 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. Alexa and Google are adding premium services to their skill set. How do you subscribe to these services and use them?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
28) Where in the World: Accessible Wayfinding and Mapping for iOS | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 18th 2022 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Wednesday May 18th 2022 from 3:00 - 4:30 PM ET. We'll explore accessible mainstream apps like Apple and Google Maps, which can give you walking or transit directions and help you discover points of interest in your city. Plus, we'll explore Microsoft Soundscape and GoodMaps, two apps built to give you precise, accessible guidance. This event will take place in person and online. To attend in person, please RSVP to ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ or register via Zoom to join online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMrcu2rrjkjGd0aaqdPZNDeB4iaC3L06-Lo
29) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Beginners | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 4th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) 1:00 - 2:15 PM ET. If you're new to using Voiceover on the iPhone or if you're still working toward confidence, this discussion group is for you. We'll spend some time going over the theory of how screen readers work, gestures everyone needs to know, and some strategies for getting help. Then, we'll open it up for questions and networking. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
30) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Users: Beyond the Basics | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 4th 2022 | 11:30AM PT, 12:30AM, 1:30PM CT, 2:30PM ET, 6:30PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) from 2:30 - 4:00 PM ET. Talk about customizing gestures and settings, exploring new apps, choosing accessories, dealing with bugs, and whatever else comes to mind. This is a space for any and all Voiceover topics that go beyond the basics of using common gestures and built-in apps. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
31) Using iOS Shortcuts | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 9th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Thursday June 9, 2:00 - 3:30 PM Eastern. Shortcuts can be used to automate tasks and save time. Join us to explore examples of effective shortcuts and learn to create your own. This event will take place in person and online. Email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to RSVP in person, or register to participate online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZElc-itrjgvHNDogsDg6wMe47pOluSIcXYI?_x_zm_rtaid=O_T4jl2gQk-eJ1vIXaeqDw.1648421599270.e098cddc0d3e6ab8b653afe6c5833f53&_x_zm_rhtaid=371
32) Gadgets and Apps for Safe Navigation | Technology User Group
June 11th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. There are many apps and devices that can aid a visually impaired traveler through the unknown. Avoid low-hanging obstacles and other obstructions. Which ones can you afford and which ones offer the best protection?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
33) Tactile Drawing from Still Life | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 11th 2022 | 10:30 AM PT, 11:30 AM MT, 12:30 PM CT, 1:30 PM ET, 5:30 PM GMT | Saturday June 11th 2022 from 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM Eastern In this hands-on workshop, we'll explore still life scenes of 3D objects and then create accessible tactile drawings. A variety of tactile media will be offered. This hands-on event will take place in person. Please email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to RSVP.
34) Intro to Google Translate | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 15th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Wednesday June 15th 2022 from 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM Eastern. Take a deep dive into this powerful cross-platform tool for translation. We'll explore how to translate from speech, text, handwriting and the camera; how to build a list of phrases you use often; and what you need to know about conversational and continuous translation. This event will take place in person and online. Email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to attend in person, or register to participate online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZElc-itrjgvHNDogsDg6wMe47pOluSIcXYI?_x_zm_rtaid=5aP3v6sNTtuCFyUfVDXxaQ.1648429186785.e6167c6b9ddb64d3c5052fc57b1d89aa&_x_zm_rhtaid=506
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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 iPhone SE 2020 64 G Product Red
Listing Date: 3/24/2022 | Price: $225.00 USD | Condition: Gently used. | Description: This iPhone has been reset and is fully unlocked and ready to be set up. It has a glass screen protector and also will send extra one. It has a clear case and also blue case. Will be sent in its original box with charging cable and charging block. | Contact: Debra via Email at: dbrummer17@yahoo.com 📧️ or by phone at:(785) 249-5473 📱️. |
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
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)
➜ Start Your Coding Journey Today with APH's Road to Code!
Want to learn more about coding but don't know where to start? Look no further! APH's Road to Code provides a roadmap for coding progression through all our fun and engaging coding products.
https://bit.ly/3HueRfI
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: Got protection? Umbrella, condom, taser, Depends: Some of us blind folks carry all four. No: This is about a new line of protection: RFID leather products that keep your credit card information safe: Waist packs, pouches, and wallets. Many choices! And, we now RFID waistpacks that also have cane folders inside for canes up to 16 inches when folded. And don't forget the gun case that became the best protection out there for your 20 cell Braille display. For more info, call GuideLights at (617) 969-7500 or (781) 286-1696. Or email us:➜ GuideLights and Gadgets: Got Protection?
Umbrella, condom, taser, Depends: Some of us blind folks carry all four. No: This is about a new line of protection: RFID leather products that keep your credit card information safe: Waist packs, pouches, and wallets. Many choices! And, we now RFID waistpacks that also have cane folders inside for canes up to 16 inches when folded. And don't forget the gun case that became the best protection out there for your 20 cell Braille display. For more info or to order, call Barry at (617) 969-7500 📱️ | bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️ or Kae at (781) 286-1696 📱️ | guidelightdogs@gmail.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
➜ 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
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
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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
The DannyBoy Portable Stand holds your Smart Phone stationary so it's camera can view items and documents clearly providing stability for excellent recognition & clarity. Take perfect pictures and scan images. Read documents quickly and easily. Great for anyone with motor disabilities, too! Made with the Blind In Mind! Lightweight & Portable. Ready To Use or Collapses In Seconds. Read All About the DannyBoy Portable Stand at DannyBoy.com in BlindMiceMegaMall.com at:
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
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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
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
➜ VisionAware Resources: The Reader's Digest Getting Started Guide to Vision Loss
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
➜ 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/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.
Your Name Here
0 of 12 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 0 of 12 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, March 31, 2022 - Volume 852
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.
Subscribers: 7,144 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email.
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 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.) Disabled IT Professionals Are Building Access For Themselves (6.5% of all clicks.)
https://www.itpro.co.uk/business-strategy/careers-training/367131/disabled-it-professionals-building-access
B.) A Short Tutorial on NVDA Screen Review (6.3% of all clicks.)
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/63.html
C.) Company Develops Illumie For Blind And Visually Impaired People To Navigate (5.3% of all clicks.)
https://coolblindtech.com/company-develops-illumie-for-blind-and-visually-impaired-people-to-navigate/
D.) Microsoft Edge Can Now Auto-Generate Image Descriptions, Improving Accessibility (5.1% of all clicks.)
https://www.windowscentral.com/microsoft-edge-can-now-auto-generate-image-descriptions-improving-accessibility
E.) Could This Virtual 'Guide Dog' Help the Visually Impaired? (4.7% of all clicks.)
https://www.mddionline.com/digital-health/could-virtual-guide-dog-help-visually-impaired
2) Interview With Mael Fabien, CEO and Founder of Biped.ai | YouTube | Double Tap TV | March 29th 2022
In this episode we welcome Mael Fabien, CEO and Founder of Biped.ai. We talk all about his new product that is designed to compliment the white cane with technology that might even be able to tell you WHO is approaching:
https://bit.ly/321OUEy
3) Using Ribbons to Control Program Functions in Microsoft Windows
This tutorial brought to us by Tidbits Reader Gene Asner:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/65.html
4) Finding Resources For Tech Support And Training - Recording - Tech It Out - March 22nd 2022
5) JAWS Power Tip: How To Ignore Inline Frames on Web Pages
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/66.html
6) A Look at Programming Languages and Concepts for Blind and Low Vision Coders | APH
Thanks to a generous grant from CDW, The American Printing House for the Blind (APH) is proud to offer introductory coding courses for blind and visually impaired youth and adults. These courses are designed to familiarize blind and low vision young adults and adults with basic coding tools, challenges navigating these tools with assistive technology such as screen readers, and techniques for navigating those challenges. Join Florian Beijers, a blind coder, as he guides you through learning the basics of coding in multiple programming languages. This is the second in a series of four courses. This second course takes place Tuesdays in April at 1:00 PM Eastern time. Classes will be April 5, 12, 19, and 26 from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM Eastern daylight time, but all sessions will be recorded and available soon after the live class for those who cannot attend at the scheduled time. If you cannot attend at the scheduled time, please be sure to register for the webinar so that you will receive all emails, including links to the recordings. Pre-requisite knowledge: At least intermediate familiarity with a screen reader with speech and/or braille, or intermediate familiarity with a screen magnification program. Ability to use the internet to accomplish tasks such as searching for and reading information, completing forms, and using keyboard shortcuts to navigate, read, and edit. Ability to follow written instructions to independently download and install programs and extensions. Willingness to participate in the entire course consisting of 4 weekly sessions; each session will last 90 minutes. Willingness to spend at least two hours per week on review and homework. Lesson Plan Goal: Introduce students to multiple coding modalities and how to navigate barriers encountered. Learning Objectives: 1. Identify three reasons to use ARIA and when not to use it. 2. Explain at least three requirements for web accessibility using ARIA. 3. Successfully apply Python basics to at least three coding tasks. 4. Describe use of Python in web application, data science, and automation. 5. Identify at least two obstacles present in the development field for blind and low vision coders, and two strategies to either join a development team or take a software development-related study. Materials Needed: screen reader with speech output or Braille display and/or screen magnification program. Here is the link to register:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_COVPq9ogT96c_X8XbSRPtA
7) New Website Offers 200 Accessible Windows Programs
Laufware.com is a new website that provides links to over 200 accessible Windows programs. Software is divided in to 25 categories with descriptions for each program. Specialty pages include keyboard shortcuts, top forty accessible programs, fifty portable programs with no installation required, and podcasts created by and for the blind and low vision community. Current categories include: Audio Players, Backup, Broadcasting, Browsers-Email, CD-DVD, Databases-Spreadsheets, Editors, File Management, Hardware, Keyboard shortcuts, MP3, Portable, Radio, Reading, Recorders, Screen Readers, Screen Sharing, Security, Servers, Social Media, Utilities, Video, Voice Chat, Website Tools, and Wireless. A software submission form is available for persons to share their favorite accessible Windows programs, and the contact page allows persons to provide comments and suggestions. Michael Lauf, the website creator, hopes you will visit, bookmark and share the website with those who may benefit:
https://www.laufware.com
8) Google: Accessibility Not A Direct Ranking Factor
For search engine optimization, Google does not rank search result pages based on accessibility:
https://www.searchenginejournal.com/google-accessibility-not-a-direct-ranking-factor/443784/
9) CSUN Presentations
Here is a list of CSUN presentations and associated resources:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1Tgmba0L6Z0BkHu9Hb3jlZ3IweguAdrja649rzk8X_Dk/htmlview#gid=407013666
10) Compose With Markdown In Google Docs On Web
In Google Docs, you can now select "Automatically detect Markdown" from Tools > Preferences to enable auto correcting for Markdown syntax, a lightweight markup language for applying formatting using plain text:
https://workspaceupdates.googleblog.com/2022/03/compose-with-markdown-in-google-docs-on.html
11) Can A New Online Learning Platform Improve Employment For Those With Visual Impairment?
Clusiv claims to have a learning management system (LMS) that is accessible to blind learners. The LMS is aimed at providing training to employees. AFB has the story:
https://www.edsurge.com/news/2022-01-14-can-a-new-online-learning-platform-improve-employment-for-those-with-visual-impairment
12) Hadley Free Technology Workshops
Hadley has a great collection of free technology workshops for learning how to use your device or app:
https://hadley.edu/learn?topic_id=14
13) Introducing The 20-Cell BrailleSense 6 Mini Notetaker From HIMS
HIMS has announced the release of the BrailleSense 6 mini, a 20-cell notetaker. With the BrailleSense 6 mini you can read books, write reports, complete assignments, send emails, share documents, and more. Check out the announcement video for some quick details on this new notetaker:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iDWF7zaxeJY
14) TeamViewer Scripts for JAWS | Hartgen Consultancy
You will find below a link to free JAWS scripts for TeamViewer version 15. As of later releases of TeamViewer, it is difficult to find your User ID and password. Once located, pressing the Left and Right arrow keys do not allow you to read the item character by character. With these scripts installed, pressing function key F1 will place the user ID and password into the JAWS virtual viewer for easier reading. When focused on any field, you should also now be able to press the JAWS keystroke to virtualise the focused control, Shift+Insert+V. These scripts are offered freely to the blindness community and were developed for personal use. No support is available:
https://www.hartgen.org/teamviewer
15) Fine-Tuning Touch Technology
Bumps and lines make up touch-based technology such as Braille. But the human sense of touch is keen enough to detect differences that are much smaller. Research by Charles Dhong and his group at the University of Delaware has found that humans can feel differences in the chemical composition of a surface, down to the substitution of a single atom:
https://www.udel.edu/udaily/2022/march/tactile-materials-science-engineering-chemistry-charles-dhong/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) 'CODA' Brings Home The Oscar For Best Picture, A Historic Win For The Deaf Community
Best Picture goes to a movie about deaf culture. NPR has the story:
https://www.npr.org/2022/03/27/1088526640/oscar-best-picture-coda-wins
2) How Colorblind NHL Players See The Game
Here is a story about 4 NHL hockey players with color vision deficiency, more commonly known as colorblindness:
https://fivethirtyeight.com/features/how-colorblind-nhl-players-see-the-game/?ex_cid=538twitter
3) 'The Holy Braille': American Printing House For The Blind Shows Off New Device
Since partnering with HumanWare to co-develop what is now called the "Dynamic Tactile Device," APH and HumanWare teams have worked on the physical specifications of the device while also discussing the ecosystem which needs to be created to support the new technology. Meador compared that ecosystem to the App Store — an open-source platform that's supported by Android and iOS to connect the device with education apps and beyond:
https://www.bizjournals.com/louisville/inno/stories/news/2022/03/28/aph-dynamic-tactile-device.html
4) San Francisco LightHouse for the Blind Announces Chief Executive Officer Search
LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired, California's oldest and most diverse blindness organization serving people who are blind or have low vision, has announced that it is initiating a search to identify its next CEO:
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/san-francisco-lighthouse-for-the-blind-announces-chief-executive-officer-search-301512124.html
5) 'Where The Bats Hung Out': How A Basement Hideaway At UC Berkeley Nurtured A Generation Of Blind Innovators
This is how Joshua Miele and other blind students found their way to this underground hideaway. Its university-sanctioned name was the blind students study center. But pretty much everyone called it The Cave. "It's where the bats hung out," Miele explained:
https://www.statnews.com/2022/03/28/the-cave-uc-berkeley-nurtured-generation-blind-innovators/
6) What Is It Like to Write a Book When You Cannot See? — Ian Brown, RNIB Scotland
What is it like writing stories, creating your own literary world of characters and scenery, when you are blind or partially sighted?
https://www.scotsman.com/news/opinion/what-is-it-like-to-write-a-book-when-you-cannot-see-ian-brown-rnib-scotland-3628702
7) Record Number of Lawsuits Filed Over Accessibility for People with Disabilities
New Justice Department guidance explains businesses' role in making sure websites can be used by everyone:
https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/hr-topics/behavioral-competencies/global-and-cultural-effectiveness/pages/record-number-of-lawsuits-filed-over-accessibility-for-people-with-disabilities.aspx
8) Beauty's Accessibility Shift: Inside The New Priority
Shopping with a disability can be challenging. Now, belatedly, the beauty sector is showing signs of taking action:
https://www.voguebusiness.com/beauty/beautys-accessibility-shift-inside-the-new-priority
9) Mastercard Puts Visual Impairment In The Spotlight
The financial services company's new campaign is a stylish film that shows how the brand's new Touch Card makes transactions more accessible for blind and partially-sighted people:
https://www.shots.net/news/view/mastercard-puts-visual-impairment-in-the-spotlight
10) Older PlayStation Games Heading To PC Is A Win For Accessibility
With the launch of the PlayStation PC label for Sony's PC ports, more players are able to enjoy titles such as Horizon: Zero Dawn, Days Gone, and God of War. With these being ports, accessibility improvements are usually only minor parts of the package - such as keyboard and mouse remapping. But with PC, the existence of third-party mods can open up areas of the games that could allow disabled players to better enjoy them:
https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2022-03-25-older-playstation-games-heading-to-pc-is-a-win-for-accessibility
11) AR/VR Eyewear Company Innovega Strikes Deal With Global Supplier Of Technology For Visually Impaired
Innovega Inc., a Bellevue, Wash., company that uses disposable contact lenses in combination with high-tech glasses to create a digitally augmented view of the world, announced a licensing agreement with a company that plans to offer the technology to assist people who are visually impaired:
https://www.geekwire.com/2022/ar-vr-eyewear-company-innovega-strikes-deal-with-global-supplier-of-technology-for-visually-impaired/
12) Idaho Turns to Tech to Boost Safety for Blind Hunters
The Idaho Fish and Game Commission on Thursday moved forward with a rule change that could allow visually impaired hunters to use adaptive technology they say is crucial for them to be able to hunt safely:
https://www.govtech.com/products/idaho-turns-to-tech-to-boost-safety-for-blind-hunters
➜ Surveys
1) Survey | Help Writers, Editors, Designers And Publishers To Publish Books That Are More Accessible | Human Research Ethics Committee of the University of Sydney, Australia
March 31st 2022 deadline to submit. Do you have difficulty reading standard printed books? We'd love to hear from you! "How Do You Read" surveys seek to find out about reading experiences and barriers to reading for people with a print disability who live in Australia or Aotearoa New Zealand. The information you share will help writers, editors, designers and publishers to publish books that are more accessible. The forms are accessible with screen readers on both Windows and Mac. It takes around 15 to 25 minutes to complete the form. Both surveys are open now and available until 31 March 2022. To learn more about "How Do You Read" survey, please contact Dr Agata Mrva-Montoya on agata.mrva-montoya@sydney.edu.au 📧️ or +612 9114 1456 📱️. The ethical aspects of this study have been approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee of the University of Sydney (no. 2021/891). Agata also has also been cleared to work with children in both volunteer and paid roles. Her Working with Children Check Number is WWC2372187E. There are two versions of the survey:
For people aged 18 and over: https://bit.ly/HDYR22
For children and teens who are under 18: https://bit.ly/HDYR22kt
2) Survey | Help Researchers To Understand The Audio Perception Behavior of People With Visual Impairments
April 25th 2022 deadline to submit. | Hello. We are researchers from Indiana University Bloomington conducting an online survey to understand the audio perception behavior of people with visual impairments. I am inviting you to take part in a 25-30 minutes online survey from a place of your convenience. To participate in the survey, you must identify as visually impaired, must have normal hearing, and should be a native or bilingual speaker of English. You need to have access to a computer or laptop with a screen-reader and Internet connection. You should use headphones and should complete the survey in a quiet environment. For your participation, you will be paid $5 by an Amazon e-gift card. You will receive the URL link of the e-gift card within 3-5 business days after your participation. If you are interested in participating in our survey or have any questions about the study, please fill out the sign-up form below. Once you provide the details, one researcher will contact you via email or phone and send you the web link to participate in the survey. Alternatively, you may email Taslima Akter at takter@iu.edu 📧️. Please click here to sign up:
https://iu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bCt4WOvUkJworBA
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Blind Android Users 68 | More About The Assistant And RealSAM 4
March 26th 2022 | This week, we continue to talk more about google assistant. We show you how to choose your podcast provider on the Assistant we also show you, how to setup Communication apps and create and edit Shortcuts on Google Assistant. We then interview the CEO of RealSam, a phone designed specially for visually impaired. For our CSR users we demo many features like changing sliders, lift to touch and more. In our app of the week section, By popular request, we demo the "Legere Reader," formally known as "Voicedream Reader. In episode 30 of talkback highlites we demo the gesture to pull down notifications shade you can listen to us on all popular podcatchers and popular podcast platforms and on our youtube playlist at:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqpZ32TFDl4kwIAIOcUd4owp
2) DM91 | Gravity Forms Solves All Your Problems
March 28th 2022 | In this episode we share with you that Gravity forms solves all your problems! We start this episode out briefly explainning how we stream the show into clubhouse with the Mac. This drops us into a conversation about gravity forms and michael's comparison to visual form builder. Michael shares a quick navigation tip for gravity forms. Damashe asks Michael what problem he has with google docs on the Mac and shares his thoughts about google docs. Gravity forms has a lot of additional addons you can use to extend the functionality of it. We share some examples of these. Michael asks Damashe how to add snippets to a Wordpress site that you may get from gravity wiz. Michael shared some of his challenges he's had with sign in with Google, with one particular application and how you can get around it. Michael also shares a way he's using text expander efficiently on windows. Michael and Damashe also talk about the concept of a home page to run your life from wit..
https://yourownpay.com/dm91
3) Eyes on Success 2213 Seeing the World More Clearly
March 30th 2022 | The Envision Glasses is a digital eyewear solution that helps visually impaired people read text, recognize objects, make video calls and much more. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Envision co-founder Karthik Kannan about the glasses and how they are designed to empower low vision people to be more independent and help with everyday tasks:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202213.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) The Zoom about Zoom: What Participants and Hosts Need to know | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
April 1st 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Friday April 1, 2:00 - 3:30 PM. Get ready to manage microphones, cameras, chat messages, raised hands, polls and breakout rooms with confidence. We'll show you everything you need to know to bring your best self to virtual gatherings, whether you're attending or hosting. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMtcu6vrDwqGdIbqAk6imL-C70B5zQ9oyB_?_x_zm_rtaid=O_T4jl2gQk-eJ1vIXaeqDw.1648421599270.e098cddc0d3e6ab8b653afe6c5833f53&_x_zm_rhtaid=371
2) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Users: Beyond the Basics | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
April 2nd 2022 | 11:30AM PT, 12:30AM, 1:30PM CT, 2:30PM ET, 6:30PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) from 2:30 - 4:00 PM ET. Talk about customizing gestures and settings, exploring new apps, choosing accessories, dealing with bugs, and whatever else comes to mind. This is a space for any and all Voiceover topics that go beyond the basics of using common gestures and built-in apps. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
3) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Beginners | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
April 2nd 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) 1:00 - 2:15 PM ET. If you're new to using Voiceover on the iPhone or if you're still working toward confidence, this discussion group is for you. We'll spend some time going over the theory of how screen readers work, gestures everyone needs to know, and some strategies for getting help. Then, we'll open it up for questions and networking. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
4) A Look at Programming Languages and Concepts for Blind and Low Vision Coders | APH
April 5th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Thanks to a generous grant from CDW, The American Printing House for the Blind (APH) is proud to offer introductory coding courses for blind and visually impaired youth and adults. These courses are designed to familiarize blind and low vision young adults and adults with basic coding tools, challenges navigating these tools with assistive technology such as screen readers, and techniques for navigating those challenges. Join Florian Beijers, a blind coder, as he guides you through learning the basics of coding in multiple programming languages. This is the second in a series of four courses. This second course takes place Tuesdays in April at 1:00 PM Eastern time. Classes will be April 5, 12, 19, and 26 from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM Eastern daylight time, but all sessions will be recorded and available soon after the live class for those who cannot attend at the scheduled time. If you cannot attend at the scheduled time, please be sure to register for the webinar so that you will receive all emails, including links to the recordings. Pre-requisite knowledge: At least intermediate familiarity with a screen reader with speech and/or braille, or intermediate familiarity with a screen magnification program. Ability to use the internet to accomplish tasks such as searching for and reading information, completing forms, and using keyboard shortcuts to navigate, read, and edit. Ability to follow written instructions to independently download and install programs and extensions. Willingness to participate in the entire course consisting of 4 weekly sessions; each session will last 90 minutes. Willingness to spend at least two hours per week on review and homework. Lesson Plan Goal: Introduce students to multiple coding modalities and how to navigate barriers encountered. Learning Objectives: 1. Identify three reasons to use ARIA and when not to use it. 2. Explain at least three requirements for web accessibility using ARIA. 3. Successfully apply Python basics to at least three coding tasks. 4. Describe use of Python in web application, data science, and automation. 5. Identify at least two obstacles present in the development field for blind and low vision coders, and two strategies to either join a development team or take a software development-related study. Materials Needed: screen reader with speech output or Braille display and/or screen magnification program. Here is the link to register:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_COVPq9ogT96c_X8XbSRPtA
5) Intro to NVDA: A 12-Week Workshop | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
April 5th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Tuesdays beginning April 5, 2022 from 12:00 to 1:30 PM ET. There are several Windows screen readers to choose from. 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, as well as a weekly recap that is optional attend half an hour before the official start of each class. 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 30 participants, so please apply to participate soon! This event will take place online:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfYKIXMmWmBwpCcqAMper8IJhPbk0bJidqJBOZNn-IvJgov1A/viewform
6) Exploring Voiceover for Mac - A 12-Week Workshop | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
April 5th 2022 | 1:30PM PT, 2:30PM MT, 3:30PM CT, 4:30PM ET, 8:30PM GMT | Tuesdays beginning April 5th 2022 from 3:00 - 4:30 PM ET. If you know how to type, can commit to attending twelve sessions, and would like to become more confident and proficient with the Voiceover 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, as well as a weekly recap that is optional attend half an hour before the official start of every class. We'll cover the basics of customizing Voiceover settings, getting around in the Mac OS, working with text, managing files and folders and exploring the web.
This workshop will be limited to 30 participants, so please apply to participate soon! This event will take place online:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf1C_irq2KJVzQfx-HCtF_Q9bokC3MzB9Pxxa0a184_sme4Cg/viewform
7) Exploring JAWS - A 12-Week Workshop | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
April 5th 2022 | 3:30PM PT, 4:30PM MT, 5:30PM CT, 6:30PM ET, 10:30PM GMT | Tuesdays beginning April 5th 2022 from 5:00 - 6:30 PM ET. If you know how to type, 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, as well as a weekly recap that is optional to attend half an hour before the official start of every class. 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 30 participants, so please apply to participate soon!
This event will take place online:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdjCAqn0FwO_VaTagaICmMjgdRh8EQ9h2AZRsYehuiNC2PEUQ/viewform
8) Emojication: Know your Emoji | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
April 6th 2022 | 3PM PT, 4PM MT, 5PM CT, 6PM ET, 10PM GMT | Wednesday April 6th 2022 from 6:00 - 7:30 PM ET. Join us for a lively discussion about emoji: what they mean, how they evolve over time, and how blind and low-vision people can understand and use them with confidence. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/j/81135089607?pwd=OC9sckREbUdEbU9lWnh2ZzZIQnJSdz09
9) Grocery Delivery Services and Websites | Technology User Group
April 9th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. Yes, there are plenty of delivery services and if you are a tech guru, you have access to all of it. But what if you don't have those skills and still need grocery delivery?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
10) Descriptive Origami | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
April 9th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Saturday April 9th 2022 from 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM ET. We'll use effective verbal communication and teamwork to learn origami models like a lotus, a goldfish and a card holder. This hands-on event will take place in person: Kindly RSVP to ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to reserve your spot!
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
12) 13th Annual CUNY Accessibility Conference
April 11th, 12th, 13th and 14th 2022 | Four Day Virtual Event. The State of Accessibility: Are We Living Up to the Promise of Compliance and the Law? Each year, the CUNY Accessibility Conference brings together hundreds of participants from the New York City region and across North America to discuss accessibility, disability services and disability activism in the context of postsecondary education. Two years after the start of an unprecedented pandemic and resultant transitions nationwide, we are returning to our foundation. The conference theme for 2022 is The State of Accessibility: Are we living up to the promise of compliance and the law? With this theme we hope to reflect topics such as on meeting the promise, falling short, advancements the law did not anticipate, and moving beyond a legal framework of accessibility. Submit your Proposal. Proposals are due by February 21st. Presentations will be 60 minutes long along with an extra 15 minutes for questions and answers (total 75 minutes). You will be notified by the committee regarding the acceptance of your proposal by March 8th. For questions, please email Tania Kalaitzidis at akalaitzidis@qcc.cuny.edu 📧️. Please fill out our Call for Proposals form at:
https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=s_BgbwZfCU6XFZiduozH2I_mhufqVMhKkF6nbAPJwLhUNUE3RTEwMDg3TkVMM1lPTUhCNVRKUjhFVyQlQCN0PWcu
13) A Look at Programming Languages and Concepts for Blind and Low Vision Coders | APH
April 12th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Thanks to a generous grant from CDW, The American Printing House for the Blind (APH) is proud to offer introductory coding courses for blind and visually impaired youth and adults. These courses are designed to familiarize blind and low vision young adults and adults with basic coding tools, challenges navigating these tools with assistive technology such as screen readers, and techniques for navigating those challenges. Join Florian Beijers, a blind coder, as he guides you through learning the basics of coding in multiple programming languages. This is the second in a series of four courses. This second course takes place Tuesdays in April at 1:00 PM Eastern time. Classes will be April 5, 12, 19, and 26 from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM Eastern daylight time, but all sessions will be recorded and available soon after the live class for those who cannot attend at the scheduled time. If you cannot attend at the scheduled time, please be sure to register for the webinar so that you will receive all emails, including links to the recordings. Pre-requisite knowledge: At least intermediate familiarity with a screen reader with speech and/or braille, or intermediate familiarity with a screen magnification program. Ability to use the internet to accomplish tasks such as searching for and reading information, completing forms, and using keyboard shortcuts to navigate, read, and edit. Ability to follow written instructions to independently download and install programs and extensions. Willingness to participate in the entire course consisting of 4 weekly sessions; each session will last 90 minutes. Willingness to spend at least two hours per week on review and homework. Lesson Plan Goal: Introduce students to multiple coding modalities and how to navigate barriers encountered. Learning Objectives: 1. Identify three reasons to use ARIA and when not to use it. 2. Explain at least three requirements for web accessibility using ARIA. 3. Successfully apply Python basics to at least three coding tasks. 4. Describe use of Python in web application, data science, and automation. 5. Identify at least two obstacles present in the development field for blind and low vision coders, and two strategies to either join a development team or take a software development-related study. Materials Needed: screen reader with speech output or Braille display and/or screen magnification program. Here is the link to register:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_COVPq9ogT96c_X8XbSRPtA
14) Using Dictation with Braille Displays on iOS | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
April 13th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Wednesday April 13th 2022 from 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM ET. Many of us use built-in dictation as well as various transcription apps. We may do it to save time, transcribe long recordings, work with translation, or make communication more effective when someone has a speech or hearing impairment. In this workshop, we'll explore the best practices for getting dictation to work well with Braille displays, and highlight the performance of Braille on various dictation and transcription apps. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYtc-CvpzsrGtNOa3JK8Luv74JhKgWmjN6q?_x_zm_rtaid=O_T4jl2gQk-eJ1vIXaeqDw.1648421599270.e098cddc0d3e6ab8b653afe6c5833f53&_x_zm_rhtaid=371
15) Braille Screen Input for iOS, Android and Kindle Fire | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
April 16th 2022 | 10:30 AM PT, 11:30 PM MT, 12:30 PM CT, 1:30 PM ET, 5:30 PM GMT | Saturday April 16th 2022 from 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM. If you know Braille (even if you don't know contractions), you can type comfortably and quickly with Braille screen input. In this workshop, we'll explore how to set it up, gestures you need to know, and what you can do if you're having trouble with this feature. This event will take place in person and online. Please RSVP to ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to attend in person, or register to participate online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIvce6orT0rE9HcMP5mm-hGq63YfZfdmloq?_x_zm_rtaid=O_T4jl2gQk-eJ1vIXaeqDw.1648421599270.e098cddc0d3e6ab8b653afe6c5833f53&_x_zm_rhtaid=371
16) A Look at Programming Languages and Concepts for Blind and Low Vision Coders | APH
April 19th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Thanks to a generous grant from CDW, The American Printing House for the Blind (APH) is proud to offer introductory coding courses for blind and visually impaired youth and adults. These courses are designed to familiarize blind and low vision young adults and adults with basic coding tools, challenges navigating these tools with assistive technology such as screen readers, and techniques for navigating those challenges. Join Florian Beijers, a blind coder, as he guides you through learning the basics of coding in multiple programming languages. This is the second in a series of four courses. This second course takes place Tuesdays in April at 1:00 PM Eastern time. Classes will be April 5, 12, 19, and 26 from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM Eastern daylight time, but all sessions will be recorded and available soon after the live class for those who cannot attend at the scheduled time. If you cannot attend at the scheduled time, please be sure to register for the webinar so that you will receive all emails, including links to the recordings. Pre-requisite knowledge: At least intermediate familiarity with a screen reader with speech and/or braille, or intermediate familiarity with a screen magnification program. Ability to use the internet to accomplish tasks such as searching for and reading information, completing forms, and using keyboard shortcuts to navigate, read, and edit. Ability to follow written instructions to independently download and install programs and extensions. Willingness to participate in the entire course consisting of 4 weekly sessions; each session will last 90 minutes. Willingness to spend at least two hours per week on review and homework. Lesson Plan Goal: Introduce students to multiple coding modalities and how to navigate barriers encountered. Learning Objectives: 1. Identify three reasons to use ARIA and when not to use it. 2. Explain at least three requirements for web accessibility using ARIA. 3. Successfully apply Python basics to at least three coding tasks. 4. Describe use of Python in web application, data science, and automation. 5. Identify at least two obstacles present in the development field for blind and low vision coders, and two strategies to either join a development team or take a software development-related study. Materials Needed: screen reader with speech output or Braille display and/or screen magnification program. Here is the link to register:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_COVPq9ogT96c_X8XbSRPtA
17) Tactile Graphics Open House | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
April 23rd 2022 | 10:30 AM ET PT, 11:30 AM ET MT, 12:30 PM ET CT, 1:30 PM ET, 5:30 PM GMT | Saturday April 23rd 2022 from 1:30 - 3:00 PM ET. Whether you're new to the concept of images you can explore by touch or a seasoned tactile graphics creator, the Dimensions Lab is here to support you. Come explore our range of graphics embossers, 3D printers, a swell-form machine, a refreshable graphics tablet, and analog tools for tech-free, stress-free accessible drawing. This hands-on event will take place in person: kindly rsvp to ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to reserve your spot!
18) Technology Blogs and Podcasts | Hadley Tech It Out Discussion Group
April 26th 2022 | 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12PM GMT, 4/27 | It's great to know that for every tech topic out there, someone has researched and shared what's available and how to use it. Join us as we explore blogs and podcasts on technology from a blind and low vision perspective:
https://zoom.us/j/468325263?utm_source=sfmc&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Tech+It+Out+Next+Episode+Reminder&utm_term=https%3a%2f%2fzoom.us%2fj%2f468325263&utm_id=30253&sfmc_id=17563849&utm_source=sfmc&utm_term=&utm_content=10757&utm_id=52eff567-e340-4b6c-80f5-9bdaed753c04&sfmc_activityid=949f6754-041a-47e5-9588-dd497c83cebe&utm_medium=email#success
19) A Look at Programming Languages and Concepts for Blind and Low Vision Coders | APH
April 26th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Thanks to a generous grant from CDW, The American Printing House for the Blind (APH) is proud to offer introductory coding courses for blind and visually impaired youth and adults. These courses are designed to familiarize blind and low vision young adults and adults with basic coding tools, challenges navigating these tools with assistive technology such as screen readers, and techniques for navigating those challenges. Join Florian Beijers, a blind coder, as he guides you through learning the basics of coding in multiple programming languages. This is the second in a series of four courses. This second course takes place Tuesdays in April at 1:00 PM Eastern time. Classes will be April 5, 12, 19, and 26 from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM Eastern daylight time, but all sessions will be recorded and available soon after the live class for those who cannot attend at the scheduled time. If you cannot attend at the scheduled time, please be sure to register for the webinar so that you will receive all emails, including links to the recordings. Pre-requisite knowledge: At least intermediate familiarity with a screen reader with speech and/or braille, or intermediate familiarity with a screen magnification program. Ability to use the internet to accomplish tasks such as searching for and reading information, completing forms, and using keyboard shortcuts to navigate, read, and edit. Ability to follow written instructions to independently download and install programs and extensions. Willingness to participate in the entire course consisting of 4 weekly sessions; each session will last 90 minutes. Willingness to spend at least two hours per week on review and homework. Lesson Plan Goal: Introduce students to multiple coding modalities and how to navigate barriers encountered. Learning Objectives: 1. Identify three reasons to use ARIA and when not to use it. 2. Explain at least three requirements for web accessibility using ARIA. 3. Successfully apply Python basics to at least three coding tasks. 4. Describe use of Python in web application, data science, and automation. 5. Identify at least two obstacles present in the development field for blind and low vision coders, and two strategies to either join a development team or take a software development-related study. Materials Needed: screen reader with speech output or Braille display and/or screen magnification program. Here is the link to register:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_COVPq9ogT96c_X8XbSRPtA
20) VPAT® 101: Introduction to the Voluntary Product Accessibility Template
April 27th 2022 | 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? TPGi's webinar will answer those questions and more, and explain how your organization can benefit from a VPAT. Register today:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-april-27-at-12pm-et-vpat-101-introduction-voluntary-product-accessibility-template/
21) What Does it Meme?: Understanding and Sharing Visual Culture | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 2nd 2022 | 3PM PT, 4PM MT, 5PM CT, 6PM ET, 10PM GMT | Monday May 2, 6:00 - 7:30 PM Eastern
Memes are a rich part of Internet culture but, usually, they're not accessible to blind and low-vision people. Join us as we dive into the meaning and evolution of memes, and explore how concise, evocative description can create equity of access in digital spaces. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/j/87873411950?pwd=c1gwWTdQV0V1aG1ScG50OTVLUVFudz09#success
22) American Foundation for the Blind Leadership Conference (AFBLC)
May 2nd 2022 through May3rd 2022 | Hyatt Regency Arlington, Virgina. Join us for the American Foundation for the Blind's Leadership Conference (AFBLC), which will take place at the Hyatt Regency, Arlington, Virginia this year. We aim to create a world of no limits for people who are blind. We are committed to putting inclusion to work, which will be a major emphasis of our 2022 AFBLC. AFBLC provides a forum in which leaders from a variety of fields-including research, technology, education, corporations, health and government organizations-have the opportunity to expand their knowledge of best practices, refine leadership skills, identify inclusion practices that work, and share concerns and strategies. The Migel Medal, the highest honor in the blindness field, as well as the Corinne Kirchner Research Award and the newly established Llura Gund Leadership Award will be presented at the AFB Leadership Conference. We look forward to gathering with you to explore the conference themes of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility:
https://www.afb.org/about-afb/events-and-awards/afblc2022?sourceid=&ms=N422JAN2EM3LC&emci=613b769b-b58e-ec11-a507-281878b83d8a&emdi=e828bc7c-418f-ec11-a507-281878b83d8a&ceid=8505425
23) Intro to Facebook with Accessibility in Mind | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 5th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Thursday May 5th 2022 from 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM ET. We'll go over the basics of navigating Facebook with confidence on mobile and the web. Learn how to create posts including links and photos, navigate the News Feed, access important settings, handle messages and more. This hybrid event will take place online and in person. Please RSVP to chanceyfleet@nypl.org 📧️ to attend in person, or register for the Zoom:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAud-6prjIiHNLfBON7AHjHx7b0LE-PELaN?_x_zm_rtaid=O_T4jl2gQk-eJ1vIXaeqDw.1648421599270.e098cddc0d3e6ab8b653afe6c5833f53&_x_zm_rhtaid=371
24) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Beginners | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 7th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) 1:00 - 2:15 PM ET. If you're new to using Voiceover on the iPhone or if you're still working toward confidence, this discussion group is for you. We'll spend some time going over the theory of how screen readers work, gestures everyone needs to know, and some strategies for getting help. Then, we'll open it up for questions and networking. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
25) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Users: Beyond the Basics | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 7th 2022 | 11:30AM PT, 12:30AM, 1:30PM CT, 2:30PM ET, 6:30PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) from 2:30 - 4:00 PM ET. Talk about customizing gestures and settings, exploring new apps, choosing accessories, dealing with bugs, and whatever else comes to mind. This is a space for any and all Voiceover topics that go beyond the basics of using common gestures and built-in apps. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
26) Premium services using Alexa and Google | Technology User Group
May 14 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. Alexa and Google are adding premium services to their skill set. How do you subscribe to these services and use them?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
27) Where in the World: Accessible Wayfinding and Mapping for iOS | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
May 18th 2022 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT | Wednesday May 18th 2022 from 3:00 - 4:30 PM ET. We'll explore accessible mainstream apps like Apple and Google Maps, which can give you walking or transit directions and help you discover points of interest in your city. Plus, we'll explore Microsoft Soundscape and Goodmaps, two apps built to give you precise, accessible guidance. This event will take place in person and online. To attend in person, please RSVP to ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ or register via Zoom to join online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMrcu2rrjkjGd0aaqdPZNDeB4iaC3L06-Lo
28) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Beginners | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 4th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) 1:00 - 2:15 PM ET. If you're new to using Voiceover on the iPhone or if you're still working toward confidence, this discussion group is for you. We'll spend some time going over the theory of how screen readers work, gestures everyone needs to know, and some strategies for getting help. Then, we'll open it up for questions and networking. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
29) iPhone Chat for Voiceover Users: Beyond the Basics | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 4th 2022 | 11:30AM PT, 12:30AM, 1:30PM CT, 2:30PM ET, 6:30PM GMT | First Saturdays (April 2, May 7, June 4) from 2:30 - 4:00 PM ET. Talk about customizing gestures and settings, exploring new apps, choosing accessories, dealing with bugs, and whatever else comes to mind. This is a space for any and all Voiceover topics that go beyond the basics of using common gestures and built-in apps. This event will take place online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vcuiqqjwtHdzr8bnEn6y-ypuxRhgkdvwz
30) Using iOS Shortcuts | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 9th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Thursday June 9, 2:00 - 3:30 PM Eastern. Shortcuts can be used to automate tasks and save time. Join us to explore examples of effective shortcuts and learn to create your own. This event will take place in person and online. Email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to RSVP in person, or register to participate online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZElc-itrjgvHNDogsDg6wMe47pOluSIcXYI?_x_zm_rtaid=O_T4jl2gQk-eJ1vIXaeqDw.1648421599270.e098cddc0d3e6ab8b653afe6c5833f53&_x_zm_rhtaid=371
31) Gadgets and Aapps for Safe Navigation | Technology User Group
June 11th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. There are many apps and devices that can aid a visually impaired traveler through the unknown. Avoid low-hanging obstacles and other obstructions. Which ones can you afford and which ones offer the best protection?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
32) Tactile Drawing from Still Life | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 11th 2022 | 10:30 AM PT, 11:30 AM MT, 12:30 PM CT, 1:30 PM ET, 5:30 PM GMT | Saturday June 11th 2022 from 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM Eastern In this hands-on workshop, we'll explore still life scenes of 3D objects and then create accessible tactile drawings. A variety of tactile media will be offered. This hands-on event will take place in person. Please email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to RSVP.
33) Intro to Google Translate | Andrew Heiskell Braille And Talking Book Library
June 15th 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT | Wednesday June 15th 2022 from 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM Eastern. Take a deep dive into this powerful cross-platform tool for translation. We'll explore how to translate from speech, text, handwriting and the camera; how to build a list of phrases you use often; and what you need to know about conversational and continuous translation. This event will take place in person and online. Email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org 📧️ to attend in person, or register to participate online:
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZElc-itrjgvHNDogsDg6wMe47pOluSIcXYI?_x_zm_rtaid=5aP3v6sNTtuCFyUfVDXxaQ.1648429186785.e6167c6b9ddb64d3c5052fc57b1d89aa&_x_zm_rhtaid=506
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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 iPhone SE 2020 64 G Product Red
Listing Date: 3/24/2022 | Price: $225.00 USD | Condition: Gently used. | Description: This IPhone has been reset and is fully unlocked and ready to be set up. It has a glass screen protector and also will send extra one. It has a clear case and also blue case. Will be sent in its original box with charging cable and charging block. | Contact: Debra via Email at: dbrummer17@yahoo.com 📧️ or by phone at:(785) 249-5473 📱️. |
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)
➜ Start Your Coding Journey Today with APH's Road to Code!
Want to learn more about coding but don't know where to start? Look no further! APH's Road to Code provides a roadmap for coding progression through all our fun and engaging coding products.
https://bit.ly/3HueRfI
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: Got protection? Umbrella, condom, taser, Depends: Some of us blind folks carry all four. No: This is about a new line of protection: RFID leather products that keep your credit card information safe: Waist packs, pouches, and wallets. Many choices! And, we now RFID waistpacks that also have cane folders inside for canes up to 16 inches when folded. And don't forget the gun case that became the best protection out there for your 20 cell Braille display. For more info, call GuideLights at (617) 969-7500 or (781) 286-1696. Or email us:➜ GuideLights and Gadgets: Got Protection?
Umbrella, condom, taser, Depends: Some of us blind folks carry all four. No: This is about a new line of protection: RFID leather products that keep your credit card information safe: Waist packs, pouches, and wallets. Many choices! And, we now RFID waistpacks that also have cane folders inside for canes up to 16 inches when folded. And don't forget the gun case that became the best protection out there for your 20 cell Braille display. For more info or to order, call Barry at (617) 969-7500 📱️ | bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️ or Kae at (781) 286-1696 📱️ | guidelightdogs@gmail.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
➜ 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
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
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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
The DannyBoy Portable Stand holds your Smart Phone stationary so it's camera can view items and documents clearly providing stability for excellent recognition & clarity. Take perfect pictures and scan images. Read documents quickly and easily. Great for anyone with motor disabilities, too! Made with the Blind In Mind! Lightweight & Portable. Ready To Use or Collapses In Seconds. Read All About the DannyBoy Portable Stand at DannyBoy.com in BlindMiceMegaMall.com at:
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
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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
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
➜ VisionAware Resources: The Reader's Digest Getting Started Guide to Vision Loss
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
➜ 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/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
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.
Your Name Here
0 of 12 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 0 of 12 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
4.) Kelly Walborn
Platinum Supporter since March 28, 2022
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, March 24, 2022 - Volume 851
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.
Subscribers: 7,136 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Magnify Your Success With The explorē 12 Portable Video Magnifier
explorē 12 is an easy-to-use, portable electronic magnifier that offers HD image quality for improved near and distance viewing. As the largest portable magnifier in the HumanWare explorē series, its 12-inch touchscreen is perfect for anyone desiring a larger interface.
When used with the foldable stand, explorē 12 rises 6.5 inches above the table, giving plenty of room to read and write. Plus, by using the using zoom and pan gestures, you'll read documents and books seamlessly without having to move them frequently. With its superior magnification range and the added benefit of a foldable stand, this tablet-sized magnifier allows the continuation of everyday activities like reading and writing, viewing of pictures and maps, and much more, just about anywhere.
For more details about the explorē 12, please visit our website at:
https://store.humanware.com/explore-12-portable-video-magnifier.html?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=techtalk
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) Orbit Research Introduces the Orbit Speak Notetaker (8.0% of all clicks.)
http://www.orbitresearch.com/product/orbit-speak/
B.) A Short Tutorial on NVDA Screen Review (5.7% of all clicks.)
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/63.html
C.) Benetech Unveils Bookshare Reader Suite for Web, Mobile, and Smart Speaker Devices (5.6% of all clicks.)
https://blog.bookshare.org/2022/03/benetech-unveils-bookshare-reader-suite/
D.) Dot Inc. Announces the World's First Tactile Braille Display, Compatible with iPhone and iPad (4.8% of all clicks.)
https://techcrunch.com/2022/03/10/dot-pad-tactile-display-makes-images-touchable-for-visually-impaired-users/
E.) Tattoos And Car Sensors Inspire University of Arizona Team's New Navigational Tool For The Visually Impaired (4.8% of all clicks.)
https://www.kold.com/2022/03/09/tattoos-car-sensors-inspire-uarizona-teams-new-navigational-tool-visually-impaired/
2) How Technology Has Helped Make The Reading Experience A Little Better Over Time - YouTube - Double Tap TV - March 22nd 2022
Reading has come a long way for people with low vision. In this episode we welcome Red Szell the host of AMI-Audio's My Life in Books to discuss how technology has helped make the reading experience a little better over time:
https://bit.ly/321OUEy
3) Using Object Navigation in NVDA
This tutorial brought to us by Tidbits Reader Gene Asner:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/64.html
4) Orbit Research Introduces the Orbit Speak Notetaker
Weighing less than eight ounces, the Orbit Speak is similar in size to modern smartphones, allowing it to fit comfortably in a pocket or purse. Despite its compact size, it provides an ergonomic Perkins-style braille keyboard, with high-quality scissors keys and includes a cursor keypad for navigation:
http://www.orbitresearch.com/orbit-research-introduces-the-orbit-speak-notetaker/
5) Envision Announces New Features To Its Smart Glasses At CSUN Conference 2022
Envision has brought its glasses to the CSUN Conference 2022, where they made their initial debut two years ago. This year, the company is introducing some new and improved technologies to its AI. As part of that continuing mission, the company has introduced several improvements to its product at CSUN 2022:
https://coolblindtech.com/envision-announces-new-features-to-its-smart-glasses-at-csun-conference-2022/
6) Orbit Research Introduces the Graphiti® Interactive Tactile Graphic Display
Based on revolutionary TactuatorTM technology from Orbit Research, the Graphiti® represents a breakthrough in non-visual access to graphical information such as charts, drawings, flowcharts, floorplans, images and photographs, through an array of moving pins. The most unique feature of the technology is the ability to set each pin to different heights, which enables the display of topographical maps and other graphical elements such as shades and color represented as varying heights of pins that can be readily sensed by the user's fingers:
http://www.orbitresearch.com/orbit-research-introduces-the-graphiti-interactive-tactile-graphic-display/
7) PeopleLens: Using AI To Support Social Interaction Between Children Who Are Blind And Their Peers
This is a use for augmentative reality (AR) to help blind children learn more about social interactions:
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/blog/peoplelens-using-ai-to-support-social-interaction-between-children-who-are-blind-and-their-peers/
8) Listen To A Sound-Enhanced Broadcast Of Sunday Morning's Australian Open Men's Final From Action Audio
Two weeks ago, we wrote about Action Audio's attempts to make sport more accessible to visually impaired fans. Blind Bargains has more information:
https://www.blindbargains.com/bargains.php?m=22168
9) Field Of Vision Brings Sports In Real Time To Visually Impaired Fans
And, Field of Vision, an Irish company hopes to bring more accessible spectatorship to football (soccer in The U.S.) fans. Cool Blind tech has the story:
https://coolblindtech.com/field-of-vision-brings-sports-in-real-time-to-visually-impaired-fans/
10) Company Develops Illumie For Blind And Visually Impaired People To Navigate
While poking around the Cool Blind Tech website, we found a story about another object detection device to assist with navigation:
https://coolblindtech.com/company-develops-illumie-for-blind-and-visually-impaired-people-to-navigate/
11) Axe-Con, Building Accessible Experiences
You can still gain access to materials from the Axe-Con conference by registering and viewing the archives:
https://www.deque.com/axe-con/
12) Microsoft Edge Can Now Auto-Generate Image Descriptions, Improving Accessibility
Microsoft Edge now has auto-generated image labels. What this means is Edge will ensure that screen readers can describe the contents of images even when those images don't have alt text included. For blind or otherwise visually impaired users who want to know the contents of an image but can't see it, this tool should help:
https://www.windowscentral.com/microsoft-edge-can-now-auto-generate-image-descriptions-improving-accessibility
13) NV Access In-Process March 21st 2022
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-march-21st-2022/
14) Foundations: Landmarks
Most websites have common areas of content like a header and footer, a main content area, and one or more navigation blocks. Sighted people can identify these areas based on the way they're styled and the content they contain, but people who are blind cannot do that quite as efficiently. Landmarks, like headings, offer screen reader users a more comparable experience for identifying and navigating between these areas of content:
https://tetralogical.com/blog/2022/03/18/landmarks/
15) Could This Virtual 'Guide Dog' Help the Visually Impaired?
The new technology, developed at MIT, was designed to process 3-D camera data, and could help visually impaired patients navigate the world using an innovatively designed braille interface:
https://www.mddionline.com/digital-health/could-virtual-guide-dog-help-visually-impaired
16) Disabled IT Professionals Are Building Access For Themselves
For visually impaired developers, the tools just aren't good enough — so they're taking matters into their own hands:
https://www.itpro.co.uk/business-strategy/careers-training/367131/disabled-it-professionals-building-access
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) I'm Blind But I'm Scared People Think I'm Lying
35-year-old Kay Haines suffers from Stargardt disease, a rare genetic eye disease that causes progressive vision loss:
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/newport-mum-registered-blind-vision-23326257
2) Accessibility Is An Opportunity For Multi-Sensory Delight
Accessibility is now thought of as essential — but too often it remains a late-stage box-ticking exercise. Piotr Wisniewski, creative director at Admind, argues that accessibility shouldn't be thought of as a mere requirement, but an opportunity to expand the experience your brand can offer into new sensory realms:
https://www.thedrum.com/opinion/2022/03/18/accessibility-opportunity-multi-sensory-delight
3) Justice Department Issues Web Accessibility Guidance Under The Americans With Disabilities Act
In its preamble, the Department of Justice (DOJ) writes, Inaccessible web content means that people with disabilities are denied equal access to information. An inaccessible website can exclude people just as much as steps at an entrance to a physical location. Ensuring web accessibility for people with disabilities is a priority for the Department of Justice. In recent years, a multitude of services have moved online, and people rely on websites like never for all aspects of daily living. For example, accessing voting information, finding up-to-date health and safety resources, and looking up mass transit schedules and fare information increasingly depend on having access to websites:
https://beta.ada.gov/web-guidance/
4) Why We Should Be Disappointed By DOJ's Web Accessibility Guidance
Ken Nakata has a slightly more pessimistic view of the effect the guidance will have:
https://convergeaccessibility.com/2022/03/22/why-we-should-be-disappointed-by-dojs-web-accessibility-guidance/
5) Web Accessibility Claims Put Institutions Of Higher Learning At Risk
Rounding out some coverage on legal aspects of accessibility, The National Law Review has an article related to institutions of higher education:
https://www.natlawreview.com/article/web-accessibility-claims-put-institutions-higher-learning-risk
6) Lawsuit To Force Chicago To Retrofit Intersections For Vision-Impaired Pedestrians Advances
Chicago's dearth of accessible signals is "a huge pain in the ass," says legally blind artist and musician Andy Slater:
https://chicagoreader.com/columns-opinion/on-transportation/lawsuit-to-force-chicago-to-retrofit-intersections-for-vision-impaired-pedestrians-advances/
7) SXSW: Company Using AR To Help People With Visual Impairments
The creators behind illumie say they hope to bridge the gap between using a mobility aid and understanding what's actually out in the world around people who have trouble seeing:
https://www.kxan.com/news/sxsw/using-ar-to-help-people-with-visual-impairments/
8) Emerging Sensor Technology Aids Blind And Visually Impaired Pedestrians
A new patented technology from Intelligent Material Solutions, Inc. is designed to help pedestrians who are blind and visually impaired navigate busy sidewalks and avoid sidewalk hazards. The sensor tech uses a cooperative guidance system to determine walkers' precise geolocation and guide them to public transportation, retail entrances, sidewalk exits and other locations:
https://www.americancityandcounty.com/2022/03/18/emerging-sensor-technology-aids-blind-and-visually-impaired-pedestrians/
9) BlindShell Phones Get Expanded Reach in the U.S. with Newly-formed BlindShell USA
Fresh off the successful launch of the second edition of the BlindShell Classic cell phone, the company is expanding its presence in the United States:
https://www.blindbargains.com/bargains.php?m=22175
10) Blind and Low-Vision Viewers Care About Screen Style — So Why Does Audio Description Skip It?
"Emily scurries across the street wearing a short green coat." That's the vague audio description given to blind and low-vision viewers for one of Lily Collins's first outfits in the season two opener of the hit Netflix series "Emily in Paris." Unsurprisingly, what Emily is actually wearing is much more exciting. After an awkward exchange with her neighbor and love interest, Gabriel, Emily hurries off to work in a colorful, striped Versace polo and a Mugler blue-green miniskirt. It's paired with a bold green belt and strappy heels, then layered with a green Elie Saab jacket:
https://www.popsugar.com/fashion/how-audio-description-fails-to-address-fashion-48753035
11) Adobe UX Designer Lauren Dest Talks Building 'Design Decoder' Software That Makes Shopping More Accessible For The Color Blind
At its Summit 2022 conference this week, San Jose-based Adobe showed off a preview of its Project Design Decoder. It's software that, according to the company, uses artificial intelligence and machine learning in order to help make shopping experiences more accessible and inclusive. The tool is designed for people with conditions such as color vision deficiency, colloquially known as color blindness, who have difficulties perceiving patterns. Color blindness affects more than 300 million people worldwide:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/stevenaquino/2022/03/16/adobe-ux-designer-lauren-dest-talks-building-design-decoder-software-that-makes-shopping-more-accessible-for-the-color-blind/?sh=3be7fac1615d
12) New Framework To Boost Education Of Children With Vision Impairment
The University of Birmingham along with major Vision impairment organisations have launched a new single unifying framework to underpin the specialist education of children and young people with VI:
https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/news/2022/new-framework-to-boost-education-of-children-with-vision-impairment
13) People Who Are Blind May Use The Brain's Visual Cortex For Movement
The brain's visual cortex may be reorganised to control movement in people who cannot see:
https://www.newscientist.com/article/2312662-people-who-are-blind-may-use-the-brains-visual-cortex-for-movement/
➜ Surveys
1) Survey | Help Writers, Editors, Designers And Publishers To Publish Books That Are More Accessible | Human Research Ethics Committee of the University of Sydney, Australia
March 31st 2022 deadline to submit. Do you have difficulty reading standard printed books? We'd love to hear from you! "How Do You Read" surveys seek to find out about reading experiences and barriers to reading for people with a print disability who live in Australia or Aotearoa New Zealand. The information you share will help writers, editors, designers and publishers to publish books that are more accessible. The forms are accessible with screen readers on both Windows and Mac. It takes around 15 to 25 minutes to complete the form. Both surveys are open now and available until 31 March 2022. To learn more about "How Do You Read" survey, please contact Dr Agata Mrva-Montoya on agata.mrva-montoya@sydney.edu.au 📧️ or +612 9114 1456 📱️. The ethical aspects of this study have been approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee of the University of Sydney (no. 2021/891). Agata also has also been cleared to work with children in both volunteer and paid roles. Her Working with Children Check Number is WWC2372187E. There are two versions of the survey:
For people aged 18 and over: https://bit.ly/HDYR22
For children and teens who are under 18: https://bit.ly/HDYR22kt
2) Survey | Help Researchers To Understand The Audio Perception Behavior of People With Visual Impairments
April 25th 2022 deadline to submit. | Hello. We are researchers from Indiana University Bloomington conducting an online survey to understand the audio perception behavior of people with visual impairments. I am inviting you to take part in a 25-30 minutes online survey from a place of your convenience. To participate in the survey, you must identify as visually impaired, must have normal hearing, and should be a native or bilingual speaker of English. You need to have access to a computer or laptop with a screen-reader and Internet connection. You should use headphones and should complete the survey in a quiet environment. For your participation, you will be paid $5 by an Amazon e-gift card. You will receive the URL link of the e-gift card within 3-5 business days after your participation. If you are interested in participating in our survey or have any questions about the study, please fill out the sign-up form below. Once you provide the details, one researcher will contact you via email or phone and send you the web link to participate in the survey. Alternatively, you may email Taslima Akter at takter@iu.edu 📧️. Please click here to sign up:
https://iu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bCt4WOvUkJworBA
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther Episode 46 Downhill Skiing for Speed with Mike May
March 6th 2022 | On Episode 46 of AMI-audio's podcast Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther, we explore the world of speed skiing with blind skiing world champion Mike May. Ms. Lilly schools us on future off-world skiing opportunities, and Mike and Lawrence discuss the strategies and tech to use to ski for speed without sight:
https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/episode-46-downhill-skiing-for-speed-with-mike-may/id1530444764?i=1000553094982
2) Blind Android Users 67 | App Management Part 5, Google Assistant Notifications, Reminders and More
March 19th 2022 | This week we have a give away from Audible vision. We inform the listeners of rebuilding the website. We discuss all about the just released Android 13 Developer Preview 2. We demo how to create reminders and "Notes and Lists" features in google assistant. For all the samsung device users we also demo how to create Bixby routines for our tip of the week, we demo how to redeem a gift code on the play store. In our Talkback Highlights we show voice commands feature of Talkback. You can listen to our episode on all podcatchers, on smart speakers and on YouTube at:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqqT9cFFDjEyJ2CHe3lmN3YT
3) Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther Episode 47 To See or Not to See and Birds
March 20th 2022 | The latest AMI Audio podcast episode of "Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther" starts with news about migrating birds and their attraction to cities. We then conclude our conversation with Sendero Group founder and Good Maps expert Mike May about his experience with sight restoration choices and challenges, and the evolution of blind orientation technologies. Blind or sighted, you choose:
https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/episode-47-to-see-or-not-to-see-and-birds/id1530444764?i=1000554643515
4) Eyes on Success 2212 Never Too Late To Learn
March 23rd 2022 | The mission of Hadley is to create personalized learning opportunities that empower adults with vision loss to thrive - at home, at work, and in their communities. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Ed Haines, Chief Program Officer at Hadley, about some of the resources available at Hadley including workshops, podcasts, and discussion groups:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202212.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Morphic - Free New Open Source Tool Makes Computers Easier To Use | N.O.A.T.
March 25th 2022 | 10:30AM PT, 11:30AM MT, 12:30PM CT, 1:30PM ET, 5:30PM GMT | Morphic is innovative, open-source software for Windows and macOS operating systems that makes it significantly easier to find and use the accessibility features built into a computer, helping to promote digital inclusion. Learn how universities, libraries, nonprofits, and workforce agencies use Morphic to help their constituents who need or want a simpler, more efficient computer experience, including: People who need to adjust the standard features on a computer. People who have trouble finding and using accessibility features. People who find computers too complex or confusing overall. Register at:
https://sites.google.com/NOAT.ca/events/
2) Section 508 Questions and Answers | U.S. Access Board
March 29th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Technical questions can arise in applying the Section 508 Standards to the various types of information and communication technologies (ICT) that they cover in the federal sector. In this webinar, Section 508 Specialists at the U.S. Access Board and the General Services Administration (GSA) will provide answers to common questions about the 508 Standards. They will address use of the 508 Standards in ICT acquisitions, validating conformance with the standards, available Section 508 tools and resources, the 2021 revision of the Federal Acquisition Regulation, development of an ICT Testing Baseline portfolio, and other topics. This session is intended for entry-level to intermediate audiences, but all are welcome to join. This webinar will include video remote interpreting (VRI) and real-time captioning. Questions can be submitted in advance of the session or can be posed during the live webinar. Continuing Education Recognition Available:
https://www.access-board.gov/webinars/2022/03/29/section-508-questions-and-answers/
3) 2022 Access | The Age of Digital Inclusion | 3Play Media
March 29th 2022 through April 1st 2022 | #ACCESS2022 | We can't wait to see you virtually! What accessibility accommodations will you provide?
We will offer live professional captioning for all sessions in-person and online. Additional accommodations can be requested while ordering your ticket, or by emailing us at events@3playmedia.com 📧️. Please let us know by March 1, 2022. Will sessions be recorded? Yes! All sessions will be recorded and available for replay. You will be notified by email when the recordings are ready. Is the event free? Yes! The event is free. Our mission is to provide a space where professionals can connect with one another. We want to ensure that everyone who wants to learn about accessibility has access. Who is 3Play Media? We are a video accessibility company providing services in closed captioning, audio description, translation, transcription, and live captioning. Agenda, speakers and registration here:
https://www.3playmedia.com/access/
4) Webinar: How Any Organization Can Start Small but Deliver Big with Accessibility | TPGi
March 30th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenter: Charlie Pike, Platform Success Lead. 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. If you have found yourself reluctant to dip your toe into digital accessibility because of one or more of these reasons, you're not alone! But TPGi is here to offer you a solution. In this webinar, Charlie Pike, Platform Success Lead at TPGi, will show you exactly how any size business can quickly start Phase I of an accessibility program with ARC without spending a lot of money. Attendees will learn how they can assess the scope of their business's accessibility responsibilities, start with prioritized small changes that have a big impact, and pay for only what they use. Charlie will also debunk myths about accessibility (e.g., it's all or nothing, there's no benefit to the company, it's only possible and really necessary for large enterprise organizations, etc.)
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-march-30-at-12pm-et-how-any-organization-can-start-small-but-deliver-big-with-accessibility/
5) Grocery Delivery Services and Websites | Technology User Group
April 9th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. Yes, there are plenty of delivery services and if you are a tech guru, you have access to all of it. But what if you don't have those skills and still need grocery delivery?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
6) 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
7) 13th Annual CUNY Accessibility Conference
April 11th, 12th, 13th and 14th 2022 | Four Day Virtual Event. The State of Accessibility: Are We Living Up to the Promise of Compliance and the Law? Each year, the CUNY Accessibility Conference brings together hundreds of participants from the New York City region and across North America to discuss accessibility, disability services and disability activism in the context of postsecondary education. Two years after the start of an unprecedented pandemic and resultant transitions nationwide, we are returning to our foundation. The conference theme for 2022 is The State of Accessibility: Are we living up to the promise of compliance and the law? With this theme we hope to reflect topics such as on meeting the promise, falling short, advancements the law did not anticipate, and moving beyond a legal framework of accessibility. Submit your Proposal. Proposals are due by February 21st. Presentations will be 60 minutes long along with an extra 15 minutes for questions and answers (total 75 minutes). You will be notified by the committee regarding the acceptance of your proposal by March 8th. For questions, please email Tania Kalaitzidis at akalaitzidis@qcc.cuny.edu 📧️. Please fill out our Call for Proposals form at:
https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=s_BgbwZfCU6XFZiduozH2I_mhufqVMhKkF6nbAPJwLhUNUE3RTEwMDg3TkVMM1lPTUhCNVRKUjhFVyQlQCN0PWcu
8) VPAT® 101: Introduction to the Voluntary Product Accessibility Template
April 27th 2022 | 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? TPGi's webinar will answer those questions and more, and explain how your organization can benefit from a VPAT. Register today:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-april-27-at-12pm-et-vpat-101-introduction-voluntary-product-accessibility-template/
9) American Foundation for the Blind Leadership Conference (AFBLC)
May 2nd 2022 through May3rd 2022 | Hyatt Regency Arlington, Virgina. Join us for the American Foundation for the Blind's Leadership Conference (AFBLC), which will take place at the Hyatt Regency, Arlington, Virginia this year. We aim to create a world of no limits for people who are blind. We are committed to putting inclusion to work, which will be a major emphasis of our 2022 AFBLC. AFBLC provides a forum in which leaders from a variety of fields-including research, technology, education, corporations, health and government organizations-have the opportunity to expand their knowledge of best practices, refine leadership skills, identify inclusion practices that work, and share concerns and strategies. The Migel Medal, the highest honor in the blindness field, as well as the Corinne Kirchner Research Award and the newly established Llura Gund Leadership Award will be presented at the AFB Leadership Conference. We look forward to gathering with you to explore the conference themes of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility:
https://www.afb.org/about-afb/events-and-awards/afblc2022?sourceid=&ms=N422JAN2EM3LC&emci=613b769b-b58e-ec11-a507-281878b83d8a&emdi=e828bc7c-418f-ec11-a507-281878b83d8a&ceid=8505425
10) Premium services using Alexa and Google | Technology User Group
May 14 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. Alexa and Google are adding premium services to their skill set. How do you subscribe to these services and use them?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
11) Gadgets and Aapps for Safe Navigation | Technology User Group
June 11th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. There are many apps and devices that can aid a visually impaired traveler through the unknown. Avoid low-hanging obstacles and other obstructions. Which ones can you afford and which ones offer the best protection?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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 iPhone SE 2020 64 G Product Red
Listing Date: 3/24/2022 | Price: $225.00 USD | Condition: Gently used. | Description: This IPhone has been reset and is fully unlocked and ready to be set up. It has a glass screen protector and also will send extra one. It has a clear case and also blue case. Will be sent in its original box with charging cable and charging block. | Contact: Debra via Email at: dbrummer17@yahoo.com 📧️ or by phone at:(785) 249-5473 📱️. |
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: Highlighting Hands-Free Leather Pouches For Any Use or Need
We now have 4 different options to choose from: (1) Our $15 4x6' Basic with two phone compartments and a snap pocket on one side and a full size slot on the other; (2) a sturdier version with velcro rather than a snal pocket; $20 (3) Rugged leather pouch that can handle the largest phones; $30, or (4) Our "Gadget essentials" 6x8' cowhide pouch with 5 compartments that will expand to 3 inches across, $40. All can also be worn cross-body. For more info or to order, call Barry at (617) 969-7500 📱️ | bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️ or Kae at (781) 286-1696 📱️ | guidelightdogs@gmail.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
➜ 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
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
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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
The DannyBoy Portable Stand holds your Smart Phone stationary so it's camera can view items and documents clearly providing stability for excellent recognition & clarity. Take perfect pictures and scan images. Read documents quickly and easily. Great for anyone with motor disabilities, too! Made with the Blind In Mind! Lightweight & Portable. Ready To Use or Collapses In Seconds. Read All About the DannyBoy Portable Stand at DannyBoy.com in BlindMiceMegaMall.com at:
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
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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
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
➜ VisionAware Resources: The Reader's Digest Getting Started Guide to Vision Loss
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
➜ 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/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
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)
➜ Start Your Coding Journey Today with APH's Road to Code!
Want to learn more about coding but don't know where to start? Look no further! APH's Road to Code provides a roadmap for coding progression through all our fun and engaging coding products.
https://bit.ly/3HueRfI
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.
Your Name Here
0 of 12 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 0 of 12 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, March 17, 2022 - Volume 850
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.
Subscribers: 7,127 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Join HIMS At CSUN Booth 518 For A SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT And For Hands-On Demonstrations Of The Products We Have To Offer!
Are you attending CSUN? If so, come check out HIMS at booth 518 starting March 15th to get a hands-on demonstration of the performance packed BrailleSense 6 notetaker along with the other great products we have to offer. This year HIMS will also have a special announcement that you won't want to miss. Here's a hint: it's a big announcement of something mini. If you can't make it to CSUN this year, checkout the HIMS website during CSUN to learn about the big announcement. Visit HIMS online at https://hims-inc.com. Phone: (512) 837-2000 📱️. Email: sales@hims-inc.com 📧️
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: Don't Forget About F6! (9.2% of all clicks.)
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/62.html
B.) This Walking Navigation System For The Visually Impaired Was Partly Developed By Honda (6.7% of all clicks.)
https://www.autoblog.com/2022/03/06/honda-ashirase-navigation-visually-impaired/
C.) New Microphone Invented For Speech Recognition (4.3% of all clicks.)
https://abilitynet.org.uk/news-blogs/new-microphone-invented-speech-recognition
D.) 'Heardle' Is 'Wordle' With Music Instead of Words (4.3% of all clicks.)
https://www.reviewgeek.com/111415/heardle-is-wordle-with-music-instead-of-words/
E.) Everything Apple Announced During Its 'Peek Performance' Event (3.6% of all clicks.)
https://9to5mac.com/2022/03/08/everything-apple-announced-during-todays-peek-performance-event/
2) Dot Inc. Announces the World's First Tactile Braille Display, Compatible with iPhone and iPad
Braille is widely used by people with vision impairments, but despite widespread improvements to accessibility on the web and smart devices, innovation for braille-reader hardware has essentially been stalled. Dot has taken a huge step forward with a smart braille device that not only allows for easy display of text, but tactile representations of imagery, potentially opening an entirely new layer for education and accessible content. This device is a tactile display intended for graphics. It may be available in 2023:
A.) https://techcrunch.com/2022/03/10/dot-pad-tactile-display-makes-images-touchable-for-visually-impaired-users/
B.) http://newzhook.com/story/dot-inc-announces-the-worlds-first-tactile-braille-display-compatible-with-iphone-and-ipad/
C.) https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/dot-inc-announces-the-worlds-first-tactile-braille-display-compatible-with-iphone-and-ipad-301500795.html
D.) https://mspoweruser.com/dot-pad-lets-blind-and-visually-impaired-read-and-feel-images/
3) YouTube - Double Tap TV - March 15th 2022
Microsoft's Dave Dame joins us to talk about how he helps make Microsoft's Surface hardware accessible for everyone:
https://bit.ly/321OUEy
4) Twitter Tests Alt Text Changes To Make Platform More Accessible
There is now a badge on some people's Twitter feed that shows when an alternative text description is available. Two new image accessibility features are being tested ahead of a global launch next month:
A.) https://coolblindtech.com/twitter-to-make-alt-text-descriptions-more-useful/
B.) https://www.siliconrepublic.com/business/twitter-alt-text-image-description-accessibility-feature
C.) https://www.engadget.com/twitter-alt-badges-limited-rollout-202540476.html
5) A Short Tutorial on NVDA Screen Review
This short tutorial brought to us by Tidbits Reader Gene Asner:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/63.html
6) Accessible NCAA Tournament Bracket
Terrill Thompson has released his 2022 accessible NCAA Tournament bracket. You can create an account and fill it out by Thursday, 12:40 P.M. Eastern Time at the following URL:
https://www.terrillthompson.com/ncaa/
7) Apple Makes Fitness+ Workouts More Accessible to Blind and Low Vision Subscribers with the Addition of Audio Hints That Supplement Trainer's Spoken Instructions
Apple Fitness+ workouts are gaining Audio Hints, a new accessibility format developed by Apple engineering that combines VoiceOver and Apple's Text-to-Speech synthesizer to read synchronized Timed Text over video to provide verbal cues beyond those given by the trainers. Audio Hints will begin rolling out this week. Applevis has the details:
https://applevis.com/blog/apple-makes-fitness-workouts-more-accessible-blind-low-vision-subscribers-addition-audio-hints
8) Orbit Research Introduces the Orbit Speak Notetaker
Orbit Research has announced Orbit Speak, a fully functioning note-taker. Onboard Apps include, Clock and Alarm, Calendar, Address book, and Calculator. It can also be used as a portables braille display to control a computer or smartphone. They are taking preorders now:
http://www.orbitresearch.com/product/orbit-speak/
9) Great Abs, But Killer Music: Can A Gym Workout Destroy Your Hearing?
This is an article describing the potential hearing loss one can experience while going to the gym. One other factor not mentioned is that loud environmental music can make it more difficult for gym-goers with visual impairments. This was recently a problem for this contributor (Stephen (Alex) Marositz):
https://www.jpost.com/health-and-wellness/exercise/article-700433
10) iPad For All Computing 2022 iPad OS 15 | 4 Courses | YouTube Playlist | The Tech Juggernaut
These are audio tutorials available on YouTube. TTJ now has a playlist on YouTube for this class. Just click, or tap, on the link below to be taken directly to the playlist for the iPad For All Computing course. Currently, there are two videos in the playlist, both of which were from our March 7th session. Immediately, or shortly, following each class session, that day's videos will be added to the playlist. You can also subscribe to the TTJ YouTube channel so that you'll be notified whenever they post something new. The link to the course playlist is:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTW5X6VAVuIH3nx9suGmrPHXX9FOLCljt
11) NV Access: In-Process 10th March 2022
Closing windows on the fly, accessing the notification area, startup apps, and more:
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-10th-march-2022/
12) The Top New Features in Apple's iOS 15
You can now download iOS 15.4, which allows you to use Face ID even if you have a face mask on, among other new perks:
https://www.wired.com/story/apple-iphone-ios-15-ipados-15-new-features/
13) Microsoft's PeopleLens Project Helps Blind Kids Learn Social Cues In Conversation
Among the challenges of growing up with a visual impairment is learning and participating in the social and conversational body language used by sighted people. PeopleLens is a research project at Microsoft that helps the user stay aware of the locations and identities of the people around them, promoting richer and more spontaneous interactions:
https://techcrunch.com/2022/03/14/microsofts-peoplelens-project-helps-blind-kids-learn-social-cues-in-conversation/
14) Envision Presents Next Generation AI-Powered Smart Glasses for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Envision has announced a slew of updates for its smart glasses, including better Optical Character Recognition (OCR), improved text reading with contextual intelligence, new languages, and a third-party app ecosystem:
A.) https://www.letsenvision.com/blog/envision-presents-next-generation-ai-powered-smart-glasses-for-the-blind-and-visually-impaired-at-csun-2022
B.) https://www.laptopmag.com/news/google-inspired-smart-glasses-for-the-blind-adds-eye-catching-new-features-heres-how-it-works
15) Tattoos And Car Sensors Inspire University of Arizona Team's New Navigational Tool For The Visually Impaired
"A cane has been serving its purpose for people with visual impairments for a long time. It is part of myself," Dr. Hong said. Dr. Hong also said while the cane is helpful, it leaves a lot of his body vulnerable. "Say there are things above your head or your shoulder area, the area where the cane would not be able to cover, then the only way for you to detect it is detecting it with your body, so that is not the most reasonable way of doing. In some cases, it can be pretty dangerous," Dr. Hong said. Dr. Hong began to collaborate with Dr. Wolfgang Fink, an electrical and computer engineering professor at the university:
https://www.kold.com/2022/03/09/tattoos-car-sensors-inspire-uarizona-teams-new-navigational-tool-visually-impaired/
16) New Features Added to ATMOS Automated Weather Reporting
Summit Technology Group's latest version of ATMOS Automated Weather Reporting adds approximately 300 new voices, including many multilingual speakers, to deliver weather reports for foreign-language stations:
https://www.radioworld.com/tech-and-gear/products/new-features-added-to-atmos-automated-weather-reporting
17) Benetech Unveils Bookshare Reader Suite for Web, Mobile, and Smart Speaker Devices
Announcing a new suite of free reading software for school, work, and leisure that breaks down barriers for people with dyslexia, vision loss, and other reading challenges:
https://blog.bookshare.org/2022/03/benetech-unveils-bookshare-reader-suite/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) New Lighthouse Guild Center Lets People With Vision Loss Test Latest Assistive Devices
Lighthouse Guild, a nonprofit organization located at 250 West 64th Street (near WEA), which provides services to those who are blind or visually impaired, opened a new 11,000-square-foot technology center on Tuesday, March 8th 2022:
https://www.westsiderag.com/2022/03/12/new-lighthouse-guild-center-lets-people-with-vision-loss-test-latest-assistive-devices
2) Feature: 5 Accessibility Features That Every Game Should Have
These options should really be industry standard by now:
https://www.nintendolife.com/features/5-accessibility-features-that-every-game-should-have
3) Winners Named At The 2021 Video Game Accessibility Awards
Now in its second year, the Video Game Accessibility Awards have just concluded its award ceremony celebrating games that go the extra mile to help everyone play:
https://www.thegamer.com/2021-video-game-accessibility-awards-winners/
4) Sound Can Stimulate Blind Retina To Transmit Signals To The Brain Via An Ultrasonic Retinal Prosthesis
Retinal degenerative diseases, caused by progressive degeneration of the light-sensitive photoreceptors in the retina, is one of the major causes of vision loss and blindness, affecting tens of millions of people worldwide. Although the rods and cones which are the light-sensitive cells of the retina have completely degenerated, the neural circuitries connected to the brain are mostly well preserved, providing the opportunity to restore vision by directly stimulating the retinal neurons:
https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-03-retina-transmit-brain-ultrasonic-retinal.html
5) Disabled Gaming Advocate Faces Backlash For Claiming Elden Ring's Difficulty Is An Accessibility Issue
Disabled gamer and YouTuber Steve Saylor has received backlash after claiming that Elden Ring's difficulty was an accessibility issue:
https://boundingintocomics.com/2022/03/08/disabled-gaming-advocate-faces-backlash-for-claiming-elden-rings-difficulty-is-an-accessibility-issue/
6) Visually Impaired Skateboarder Shares His Journey In The Sport | YouTube
Justin Bishop had to relearn how to skateboard after a degenerative eye disease called retinitis pigmentosa claimed his eyesight forever. He shares his incredible journey to adaptive skating as he pushes himself and his sport towards the world's biggest stage. "I loved skateboarding with all my heart," Bishop says adding, "I even missed falling:"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vnGF33g3AUA
7) Pandemic Medical Innovations Leave Behind People With Disabilities
Divya Goel, a 35-year-old deaf-blind woman in Orlando, Florida, has had two telemedicine doctors' appointments during the pandemic. Each time, she was denied an interpreter:
https://khn.org/news/article/pandemic-medical-innovations-leave-behind-people-with-disabilities/
8) JD.com Joins P&G China to Launch Services for Visually Impaired Consumers
JD.com joined P&G China, the leading consumer goods company, and officially launched the "P&G CARE+ Accessible Shopping Assistant" on March 10, providing an array of solutions to the problems often faced by visually impaired consumers before, during, and after the online shopping process. The services aim to optimize the online shopping experiences through barrier-free consultation, home delivery, door-to-door pickup logistics services, etc:
https://jdcorporateblog.com/jd-com-and-pg-china-launch-services-for-visually-impaired-consumers/
➜ Surveys
1) Survey | Help Writers, Editors, Designers And Publishers To Publish Books That Are More Accessible | Human Research Ethics Committee of the University of Sydney, Australia
March 31st 2022 deadline to submit. Do you have difficulty reading standard printed books? We'd love to hear from you! "How Do You Read" surveys seek to find out about reading experiences and barriers to reading for people with a print disability who live in Australia or Aotearoa New Zealand. The information you share will help writers, editors, designers and publishers to publish books that are more accessible. The forms are accessible with screen readers on both Windows and Mac. It takes around 15 to 25 minutes to complete the form. Both surveys are open now and available until 31 March 2022. To learn more about "How Do You Read" survey, please contact Dr Agata Mrva-Montoya on agata.mrva-montoya@sydney.edu.au 📧️ or +612 9114 1456 📱️. The ethical aspects of this study have been approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee of the University of Sydney (no. 2021/891). Agata also has also been cleared to work with children in both volunteer and paid roles. Her Working with Children Check Number is WWC2372187E. There are two versions of the survey:
For people aged 18 and over: https://bit.ly/HDYR22
For children and teens who are under 18: https://bit.ly/HDYR22kt
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Eyes on Success 2211 Your Personal Path to Fitness
March 9th 2022 | Is your visual impairment keeping you from exercising and being as active as you would like? If so, this is the book for you. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Judy Dixon and Bonnie O'Day about their new book, "Your Personal Path To Fitness", and some of the fitness opportunities that are available to people who are blind or low vision:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202211.htm
2) Blind Android Users 66 | Special App Management and Google Assistant Part 1
March 11th 2022 | This week, we talk about all things Google Assistant. We show how to set google assistant routines and how to link google assistant to your preferred music player. We are then joined by the CEO of audible vision for an interview. We then have a demo of the audio click feature of CSR screen reader. And demo the screen search feature of Talkback. As our website is down, this episode can be found at:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5iI0uwraRqrbLarFdpKvH52nXCcR9X7m
3) DM90 - Done at 100!
March 14th 2022 | This episode starts out with Michael and Damashe Discussing the fact that we have 10 more episodes, and we really need a new system! Michael doesn't think Mallory will agree with Damashe's comment! Michael has been using the Mac on a semi-regular basis and shares his thoughts about it. Damashe and Michael also reviewed the experiences of Damashe resetting his Mac. Damashe is looking for some assistance with VS Code, do you have any suggestions for him? With the combination of using Windows and Mac, Michael needs a way to keep all of his files in sync. This episode discusses that, before we transition into our closing topic. Michael has a cousin who recently received his contractor's license for pouring concrete, and asks Damashe what the essential infrastructure tools are to get started!
https://yourownpay.com/dm90
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Filling the Canvas: Using JAWS with Canvas Learning Management System | APH
March 22nd 2022 | 8:30PM PT, 9:30PM MT, 10:30PM CT, 11:30PM ET, 3:30 PM GMT | Description: The Canvas Learning Management System is a widely used platform for accessing classes online. When classes are created with accessibility in mind, students using the JAWS screen reader can easily navigate lessons, assignments, and quizzes using a combination of reading and web navigation commands, plus native Canvas keyboard shortcuts. This webinar will delve into navigating Canvas with JAWS. We'll provide an overview of the Canvas interface and discuss accessibility considerations. Instructor: Elizabeth Whitaker, Technical Writer, Vispero. Primary Core or ECC Area: Assistive Technology. Target Audience: Teachers, Students, Parents, Assistive Technology Specialists. Pre-requisite knowledge: None. Lesson Plan Goal: The participant will understand how to use the Canvas Learning Management System with JAWS. Learning Objectives: The participant will review at least three JAWS Navigation Quick keys for navigating Canvas content. The participant will identify one keyboard command for listing native Canvas keystrokes. The participant will review three steps for accessing a class. The participant will review three steps for accessing the calendar. Materials Needed: None. Collect ACVREP Credit: Credit is only available for the live presentation. To collect ACRVEP credit, please listen for the opening and closing codes, then submit these to the APH Hive's NEW webinar certificate portal within 30 days of the scheduled event. Following submission, a certificate is immediately available and stored:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_6fpMMQy7TmuPr34uXB8OKw
2) Section 508 Questions and Answers | U.S. Access Board
March 29th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT | Technical questions can arise in applying the Section 508 Standards to the various types of information and communication technologies (ICT) that they cover in the federal sector. In this webinar, Section 508 Specialists at the U.S. Access Board and the General Services Administration (GSA) will provide answers to common questions about the 508 Standards. They will address use of the 508 Standards in ICT acquisitions, validating conformance with the standards, available Section 508 tools and resources, the 2021 revision of the Federal Acquisition Regulation, development of an ICT Testing Baseline portfolio, and other topics. This session is intended for entry-level to intermediate audiences, but all are welcome to join. This webinar will include video remote interpreting (VRI) and real-time captioning. Questions can be submitted in advance of the session or can be posed during the live webinar. Continuing Education Recognition Available:
https://www.access-board.gov/webinars/2022/03/29/section-508-questions-and-answers/
3) 2022 Access | The Age of Digital Inclusion | 3Play Media
March 29th 2022 through April 1st 2022 | #ACCESS2022 | We can't wait to see you virtually! What accessibility accommodations will you provide?
We will offer live professional captioning for all sessions in-person and online. Additional accommodations can be requested while ordering your ticket, or by emailing us at events@3playmedia.com 📧️. Please let us know by March 1, 2022. Will sessions be recorded? Yes! All sessions will be recorded and available for replay. You will be notified by email when the recordings are ready. Is the event free? Yes! The event is free. Our mission is to provide a space where professionals can connect with one another. We want to ensure that everyone who wants to learn about accessibility has access. Who is 3Play Media? We are a video accessibility company providing services in closed captioning, audio description, translation, transcription, and live captioning. Agenda, speakers and registration here:
https://www.3playmedia.com/access/
4) Webinar: How Any Organization Can Start Small but Deliver Big with Accessibility | TPGi
March 30th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT | Presenter: Charlie Pike, Platform Success Lead. 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. If you have found yourself reluctant to dip your toe into digital accessibility because of one or more of these reasons, you're not alone! But TPGi is here to offer you a solution. In this webinar, Charlie Pike, Platform Success Lead at TPGi, will show you exactly how any size business can quickly start Phase I of an accessibility program with ARC without spending a lot of money. Attendees will learn how they can assess the scope of their business's accessibility responsibilities, start with prioritized small changes that have a big impact, and pay for only what they use. Charlie will also debunk myths about accessibility (e.g., it's all or nothing, there's no benefit to the company, it's only possible and really necessary for large enterprise organizations, etc.)
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-march-30-at-12pm-et-how-any-organization-can-start-small-but-deliver-big-with-accessibility/
5) Grocery Delivery Services and Websites | Technology User Group
April 9th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. Yes, there are plenty of delivery services and if you are a tech guru, you have access to all of it. But what if you don't have those skills and still need grocery delivery?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
6) 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
7) 13th Annual CUNY Accessibility Conference
April 11th, 12th, 13th and 14th 2022 | Four Day Virtual Event. The State of Accessibility: Are We Living Up to the Promise of Compliance and the Law? Each year, the CUNY Accessibility Conference brings together hundreds of participants from the New York City region and across North America to discuss accessibility, disability services and disability activism in the context of postsecondary education. Two years after the start of an unprecedented pandemic and resultant transitions nationwide, we are returning to our foundation. The conference theme for 2022 is The State of Accessibility: Are we living up to the promise of compliance and the law? With this theme we hope to reflect topics such as on meeting the promise, falling short, advancements the law did not anticipate, and moving beyond a legal framework of accessibility. Submit your Proposal. Proposals are due by February 21st. Presentations will be 60 minutes long along with an extra 15 minutes for questions and answers (total 75 minutes). You will be notified by the committee regarding the acceptance of your proposal by March 8th. For questions, please email Tania Kalaitzidis at akalaitzidis@qcc.cuny.edu 📧️. Please fill out our Call for Proposals form at:
https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=s_BgbwZfCU6XFZiduozH2I_mhufqVMhKkF6nbAPJwLhUNUE3RTEwMDg3TkVMM1lPTUhCNVRKUjhFVyQlQCN0PWcu
8) VPAT® 101: Introduction to the Voluntary Product Accessibility Template
April 27th 2022 | 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? TPGi's webinar will answer those questions and more, and explain how your organization can benefit from a VPAT. Register today:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-april-27-at-12pm-et-vpat-101-introduction-voluntary-product-accessibility-template/
9) American Foundation for the Blind Leadership Conference (AFBLC)
May 2nd 2022 through May3rd 2022 | Hyatt Regency Arlington, Virgina. Join us for the American Foundation for the Blind's Leadership Conference (AFBLC), which will take place at the Hyatt Regency, Arlington, Virginia this year. We aim to create a world of no limits for people who are blind. We are committed to putting inclusion to work, which will be a major emphasis of our 2022 AFBLC. AFBLC provides a forum in which leaders from a variety of fields-including research, technology, education, corporations, health and government organizations-have the opportunity to expand their knowledge of best practices, refine leadership skills, identify inclusion practices that work, and share concerns and strategies. The Migel Medal, the highest honor in the blindness field, as well as the Corinne Kirchner Research Award and the newly established Llura Gund Leadership Award will be presented at the AFB Leadership Conference. We look forward to gathering with you to explore the conference themes of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility:
https://www.afb.org/about-afb/events-and-awards/afblc2022?sourceid=&ms=N422JAN2EM3LC&emci=613b769b-b58e-ec11-a507-281878b83d8a&emdi=e828bc7c-418f-ec11-a507-281878b83d8a&ceid=8505425
10) Premium services using Alexa and Google | Technology User Group
May 14 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. Alexa and Google are adding premium services to their skill set. How do you subscribe to these services and use them?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
11) Gadgets and Aapps for Safe Navigation | Technology User Group
June 11th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. There are many apps and devices that can aid a visually impaired traveler through the unknown. Avoid low-hanging obstacles and other obstructions. Which ones can you afford and which ones offer the best protection?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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
➜ 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
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
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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
The DannyBoy Portable Stand holds your Smart Phone stationary so it's camera can view items and documents clearly providing stability for excellent recognition & clarity. Take perfect pictures and scan images. Read documents quickly and easily. Great for anyone with motor disabilities, too! Made with the Blind In Mind! Lightweight & Portable. Ready To Use or Collapses In Seconds. Read All About the DannyBoy Portable Stand at DannyBoy.com in BlindMiceMegaMall.com at:
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
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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
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
➜ VisionAware Resources: The Reader's Digest Getting Started Guide to Vision Loss
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
➜ 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/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
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)
➜ Start Your Coding Journey Today with APH's Road to Code!
Want to learn more about coding but don't know where to start? Look no further! APH's Road to Code provides a roadmap for coding progression through all our fun and engaging coding products.
https://bit.ly/3HueRfI
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: Highlighting Hands-Free Leather Pouches For Any Use or Need
We now have 4 different options to choose from: (1) Our $15 4x6' Basic with two phone compartments and a snap pocket on one side and a full size slot on the other; (2) a sturdier version with velcro rather than a snal pocket; $20 (3) Rugged leather pouch that can handle the largest phones; $30, or (4) Our "Gadget essentials" 6x8' cowhide pouch with 5 compartments that will expand to 3 inches across, $40. All can also be worn cross-body. For more info or to order, call Barry at (617) 969-7500 📱️ | bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️ or Kae at (781) 286-1696 📱️ | guidelightdogs@gmail.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
0 of 12 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 0 of 12 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, March 10, 2022 - Volume 849
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.
Subscribers: 7,107 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Join HIMS At CSUN Booth 518 For A SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT And For Hands-On Demonstrations Of The Products We Have To Offer!
Are you attending CSUN? If so, come check out HIMS at booth 518 starting March 15th to get a hands-on demonstration of the performance packed BrailleSense 6 notetaker along with the other great products we have to offer. This year HIMS will also have a special announcement that you won't want to miss. Here's a hint: it's a big announcement of something mini. If you can't make it to CSUN this year, checkout the HIMS website during CSUN to learn about the big announcement. Visit HIMS online at https://hims-inc.com. Phone: (512) 837-2000 📱️. Email: sales@hims-inc.com 📧️
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) How Close Are We To Curing Blindness? (7.6% of all clicks.)
https://www.freethink.com/health/curing-blindness
B.) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: Outlook 365 and the Focused Inbox (7.1% of all clicks.)
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/61.html
C.) Office Accessibility | Copy and Paste Behavior in MS Word | Customizing The Behavior to Your Personal Liking, And Overriding It When Necessary | Brian Vogel (4.9% of all clicks.)
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/1791
D.) AppleVis Unlimited: What's New and Noteworthy for February 2022 (4.7% of all clicks.)
https://www.applevis.com/newsletter/applevis-unlimited-whats-new-noteworthy-february-2022
E.) Accessibility Interview Questions (4.7% of all clicks.)
https://scottaohara.github.io/accessibility_interview_questions/
2) YouTube - Double Tap TV - March 8th 2022
In celebration of International Women's Day we are joined by Author, Speaker and Disability Rights Lawyer Haben Girma about her career and how she advises some of the biggest tech companies in the world:
https://bit.ly/321OUEy
3) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: Don't Forget About F6!
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/62.html
4) Everything Apple Announced During Its 'Peek Performance' Event
On Tuesday Apple held its special online event "Peek Perfomance," at which the company announced the third-generation iPhone SE, iPad Air 5, and a brand new Mac Studio desktop computer along with the new Apple Studio Display:
https://9to5mac.com/2022/03/08/everything-apple-announced-during-todays-peek-performance-event/
5) How To Type To Siri From The MacOS Terminal Command Line
6) New Powerful Music Transcription And More Braille Related Features With Sao Mai Braille 22.2
Sao Mai Braille (SMB) is a free rich text editing and Braille translation software for Windows, developed by Sao Mai Center for the Blind. We hope that this additional tool will help blind individuals/organizations for/of visually impaired people produce Braille materials quickly and less costly. Sao Mai Center is a non-profit organization based in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam. Highlights from this release include: Used latest LibLouis library 3.20 with display table selection for Braille output in Ascii or Unicode. New Braille table style; and two new translation rules for list indent and right-margin indent. Created table of content from both print and Braille document. Saved Braille document in SMB (Sao Mai Braille rich-text format), BRF (Braille-Ready Format), BRL (unformatted Braille), and PEF (Portable Embosser Format). Can provide meta data for SMB and PEF document types. Many new powerful music Braille transcription features such as advanced repetition and note grouping; music text dictionary; doublings; advanced slurs and ties; instrument type detection and applying correct Braille translation rules; transcribing in single-part and full score mode (orchestra and chamber) for bar-over-bar, line-over-line and section-by-section formats; and many more other improvements and bug fixes:
https://saomaicenter.org/en/smsoft/smb
7) Announcing The Release of the ElBraille System 2022, Powered by Windows 11 | Released March 8th 2022
Elita Group LLC, developers of the ElBraille portable Braille solution, announce their next big release of the operating system that powers up the ElBraille, version 2022, powered by Windows 11, coming to all ElBraille 40 G2 devices on March 8th 2022:
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/1812
8) Customize Sounds On Your Windows 11 PC
How to manage system sounds on Windows 11:
https://www.windowscentral.com/how-manage-system-sounds-windows-11
9) Action Audio, Making Sports Broadcasts Accessible To People Living With Blindness Or Low Vision
Action Audio works by turning spatial data provided by Hawk-Eye real time ball monitoring into 3D sound. The system emphasizes ball speed and trajectory, proximity to line and shot type, and augments critical moments to allow blind and low vision audiences to follow the game without seeing the ball. It was first used at the Australian Open:
https://action-audio.com/
10) What's New in Leasey Version 7!
Leasey version 7, a paid upgrade was released on Wednesday. Here are list of enhancements. Leasey is a set of scripts that can improve productivity for Jaws users:
http://www.hartgen.org/node/572
11) The 4to24 Mobile App
Mississippi State University's National Technical Assistance on Blindness and Low Vision created the 4to24 mobile app. The purpose of the app is to encourage incremental skill development and experiences by sending information, suggested activities, and accompanying resources such as APH FamilyConnect to parents of children ages 4 to 24 (or the youth themselves) and APH CareerConnect articles for transition-age youth who are blind or visually impaired:
https://aphcareerconnect.org/blog/college/theres-an-app-for-that-preparing-your-child-whos-blind-or-visually-impaired-for-a-successful-transition-to-adulthood-the-4to24-app/
12) Overlay Position and Recommendations
IAAP (International Association of Accessibility Professionals) has released an overlay position statement. You can review it at:
https://www.accessibilityassociation.org/s/overlay-position-and-recommendations
13) Sound Splitter
This add-on for NVDA (Nonvisual Desktop Access) screen reader for Windows adds the ability to split audio from NVDA and other sounds onto separate audio channels:
https://addons.nvda-project.org/addons/soundSplitter.en.html
14) New Microphone Invented For Speech Recognition
SpeechWare has released a mic specifically designed for good speech recognition. Colin Hughes over at over at AbilityNet has the story and more information:
https://abilitynet.org.uk/news-blogs/new-microphone-invented-speech-recognition
15) 'Heardle' Is 'Wordle' With Music Instead of Words
A new game called Heardle turns the word-guessing formula on its head — instead of guessing a new word each day, you guess a popular song:
https://www.reviewgeek.com/111415/heardle-is-wordle-with-music-instead-of-words/
16) Kindle Unlimited Vs. Prime Reading
Amazon has two e-book reading services; Prime Reading and Kindle Unlimited. In this article they do a deep-dive to examine which service may best suit your personal e-reading needs:
https://goodereader.com/blog/electronic-readers/kindle-unlimited-vs-prime-reading
17) Barnes And Noble Has A New Audiobook Subscription Plan
Barnes and Noble has recently revised their entire audiobook experience. They used to have a dedicated Nook audiobooks app and a dedicated audiobook website. These two things have been completely shuttered. The entire audiobook experience is now on their main Barnes and Noble website. They have a new dedicated audiobook landing page where you can view and search for audiobook specific tiles. For customers who normally just visit the website and search for books, you will now pull up a singular listing for print, ebook and now audiobooks:
https://goodereader.com/blog/audiobooks/barnes-and-noble-has-a-new-audiobook-subscription-plan
18) This Walking Navigation System For The Visually Impaired Was Partly Developed By Honda
Navigation systems are becoming more advanced all the time, but until recently, they've nearly always been based on sight. Ashirase Inc., however, a new business initiative by Honda, is starting to change this by developing a GPS navigation system for the visually impaired. The in-shoe navigation system, also called Ashirase, notifies walkers using vibrational cues on their feet:
https://www.autoblog.com/2022/03/06/honda-ashirase-navigation-visually-impaired/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) American Foundation for the Blind Urges Department of Justice to Complete Rulemaking Process for Digital Accessibility Regulations
The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB), along with their colleagues at the American Council of the Blind (ACB), the National Federation of the Blind (NFB), and the National Disability Rights Network (NDRN), urges the Department of Justice to finalize a rule on web and application accessibility before the end of the current administration:
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/american-foundation-for-the-blind-urges-department-of-justice-to-complete-rulemaking-process-for-digital-accessibility-regulations-301493154.html
2) Microsoft Just Finished Its Purchase Of Nuance For $19.7 Billion
Microsoft's acquisition of Nuance has been completed. Nuance is a well-known company specializing in artificial intelligence that also has a strong foothold in the medical industry. Microsoft initially announced its agreement to purchase Nuance for $19.7 billion back in April 2021. The deal has since gone through the required regulatory approvals:
https://www.windowscentral.com/microsoft-completes-197-billion-acquisition-ai-giant-nuance
3) How Sony Can Make Life Better for Visually Impaired Photographers
Take it from a legally blind photographer, camera tester, and blog editor; Sony's Accessibility feature in their recent cameras is a genuinely good attempt at helping us. But it also seems like they didn't really talk to visually impaired photographers for feedback. With mirrorless cameras came a lot of very big improvements for those who have a hard time seeing. And it's wonderful that photography is more accessible to us now. We've featured and talked to a ton of photographers who've overcome visual impairment. But, I can tell you from firsthand experience that there's a long way to go:
https://www.thephoblographer.com/2022/03/04/how-sony-can-make-life-better-for-visually-impaired-photographers/
4) National Braille Press Launches Pilot Program to Provide Tools and Resources for Teachers of the Visually Impaired
National Braille Press (NBP) has announced a pilot program to provide educational resources for Teachers of the Visually Impaired (TVIs) to help them teach students who are blind and have low-vision. NBP will begin shipping the free "TVI Braille Ignition Kits" to TVIs on March 2nd 2022, to coincide with National Read Across America Day:
https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/22/03/n25982325/national-braille-press-launches-pilot-program-to-provide-tools-and-resources-for-teachers-of-the-v
5) The LEGO Foundation shortlisted for RNIB See Differently Award
The LEGO Foundation has been shortlisted for an RNIB See Differently Award in recognition of its work to help children with vision impairment learn braille through play. The RNIB See Differently Awards, alongside headline sponsor Amazon Alexa, recognise and celebrate outstanding work to support people with sight loss:
https://www.toynews-online.biz/2022/03/03/the-lego-foundation-shortlisted-for-rnib-see-differently-award/
6) How the Beauty Industry Is Meeting the Needs of the Visually Impaired Community
For visually impaired people around the world, navigating the beauty and body-care world has never been easy. Now, brands are evolving with more accessible packaging and inclusive hiring practices:
https://www.shondaland.com/live/beauty/a39314926/beauty-industry-inclusive/
7) Independence Science to Develop Braille Device for Laboratory Science Students
An educational technology company in Purdue Research Park has received a grant from the National Science Foundation to create a more inclusive laboratory experience for blind and deaf-blind students to prepare them for careers in STEM fields:
https://www.labmanager.com/news/independence-science-to-develop-braille-device-for-laboratory-science-students-27640
8) The Metaverse Marginalizes Disabled Persons - How Virtual Worlds Can Be More Inclusive
The metaverse is the future, but it's leaving disabled persons in the past:
https://www.laptopmag.com/features/the-metaverse-marginalizes-disabled-persons-how-virtual-worlds-can-be-more-inclusive
9) Blindness On Stage: 'Until Disabled People Can Tell Their Own Stories, We'll Always Be Stereotypes'
From unreadable scripts to 'cripping up', a career in theatre with a visual impairment can be a challenge. Chloë Clarke and Douglas Walker share their successes and hopes for the future:
https://www.theguardian.com/stage/2022/mar/02/blindness-on-stage-until-disabled-people-can-tell-their-own-stories-well-always-be-stereotypes
10) Soterix Medical Improves Safe Mobility Device For Blind Toddlers
Soterix Medical Inc. a global leader in the design and production of smart devices treating neurological and psychiatric disorders, has announced a successful partnership with Safe Toddles, a nonprofit committed to advancing access and education on assistive tools for blind toddlers. Together they obtained a Phase I Small Business Innovation Research award from the Institute of Education Sciences - US Department of Education with the goal of modernizing the pediatric belt cane through the addition of smart technology:
https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/soterix-medical-improves-safe-mobility-140300824.html
11) WHO Releases New Safe Listening Standard
Ahead of World Hearing Day 2022, under the theme To hear for life, listen with care! The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a new international standard for safe listening at venues and events:
https://hearinghealthmatters.org/hearingnewswatch/2022/who-releases-new-safe-listening-standard/
12) Waymo Teams Up With The Foundation For Blind Children To Provide Safe And Reliable Transportation
Waymo One is serving riders, who must be at least 18 years of age to hail a ride, in the Phoenix East Valley through its ride-hailing app:
https://www.abc15.com/brand-spotlight/waymo-teams-up-with-the-foundation-for-blind-children-to-provide-safe-and-reliable-transportation
13) 14-Year-Old Creates Online Community For Visually Impaired Kids
A young girl from Niverville, Man. is creating a place where kids and teenagers with vision impairments can connect with one other:
https://www.chvnradio.com/articles/14-year-old-creates-online-community-for-visually-impaired-kids
14) Friends Help Color-Blind Teen See In Color With The Help Of Special Glasses
An inspiring story out of Nebraska, a teenager is seeing in full color for the first time in his life:
https://news4sanantonio.com/news/nation-world/friends-gift-brightens-life-for-color-blind-teen-help-see-with-the-help-of-special-glasses-local-san-antonio-texas-nebraska-lincoln
➜ Surveys
1) Survey | Help Writers, Editors, Designers And Publishers To Publish Books That Are More Accessible | Human Research Ethics Committee of the University of Sydney, Australia
March 31st 2022 deadline to submit. Do you have difficulty reading standard printed books? We'd love to hear from you! "How Do You Read" surveys seek to find out about reading experiences and barriers to reading for people with a print disability who live in Australia or Aotearoa New Zealand. The information you share will help writers, editors, designers and publishers to publish books that are more accessible. The forms are accessible with screen readers on both Windows and Mac. It takes around 15 to 25 minutes to complete the form. Both surveys are open now and available until 31 March 2022. To learn more about "How Do You Read" survey, please contact Dr Agata Mrva-Montoya on agata.mrva-montoya@sydney.edu.au 📧️ or +612 9114 1456 📱️. The ethical aspects of this study have been approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee of the University of Sydney (no. 2021/891). Agata also has also been cleared to work with children in both volunteer and paid roles. Her Working with Children Check Number is WWC2372187E. There are two versions of the survey:
For people aged 18 and over: https://bit.ly/HDYR22
For children and teens who are under 18: https://bit.ly/HDYR22kt
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Hadley Presents: A Conversation with the Experts | Fashion and Style Tips from Bold Blind Beauty
March 4th 2022 | Bold Blind Beauty blogger Stephanae McCoy joins us for a chat on beauty, style and confidence. Stephanae talks about how vision loss shaped her life, and then shares some of her favorite fashion and beauty tips:
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/fashion-and-style-tips-bold-blind-beauty
2) Blind Android Users 65 | Special App Access, Default Apps and More
March 4th 2022 | We have made a change to our website by which listeners can directly play short clips from youtube for each section. We talk about MWC and some other tech news. Google opinion rewards app has fixed their inaccessible sliders to make it more accessible. We show how to set default apps, and talk about supported links, we also talk about special app access which can be an important troubleshooting step if an app doesn't work properly. Joseph Hodge, our frequent content contributer demos Samsung DeX and then we have another installment of talkback highlites. You can listen to our podcast on all smart speakers, popular podcast playing apps and Youtube. To listen to the podcast on our website, please visit:
https://blindandroidusers.com/category/bauposts/shownotes/
3) Eyes on Success 2210 Benefits of Hiring the Blind and Visually Impaired
March 9th 2022 | With Welby Broaddus, author of the recently published "Leading Blind without Vision: The Benefits of Hiring the Blind and Visually Impaired". Welby wrote this book to educate business owners, executives, and HR professionals on the benefits of hiring individuals who are blind and visually impaired. He hopes to use this book to help educate the business community about the qualities and skillsets that the blind and visually impaired community can bring into the workplace:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202210.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Vispero Review of COVID-19 Funding and Impact for Assistive Technology Procurement
March 10th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Join us on Thursday, March 10, 2022, at Noon Eastern Time, for an informative session where we review the three stimulus funding programs enacted over the last 24 months by the Federal Government and their impact on persons with disabilities and assistive technology. With an emphasis on K-12 and higher education, we will review: CARES, CRRSA, & ARP stimulus funding programs. Education dollars allocated (by funding program & state). Where to search for funding in your community. Other program areas where stimulus funding is available to serve persons with disabilities
Vispero Presenters. Mike Wood. Michelle Williams. Bill Kilroy. Charlie Madsen. ACVREP credits will be awarded to those that attend the live webinar:
https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_wS15bMyLRC-fkPEQqYdzWQ
2) Accommodation Solutions for Executive Functioning Deficits | AskJan
March 10 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | Executive functions are high-level mental processes or abilities that influence and direct more basic abilities like attention and memory. Join JAN Cognitive/Neurological Team consultants Melanie Whetzel and Alexis Popa for a discussion about accommodation solutions that address limitations affecting attention, time management, memory, hyperactivity/impulsivity, and getting to work on time. This training will be a live question and answer session but will include JAN accommodation examples to prompt thinking about the topics and generate questions about the difficulties you or your employees are experiencing on the job that involve attention, meeting deadlines, productivity standards, and more:
https://askjan.org/events/index.cfm?calview=eventdetails&dtid=8915ADD3-BF08-73CC-570AFACA27FE7DCE
3) Using the GPS in the Victor Reader Trek | Technology User Group
March 12th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | On Saturday, March 12th, the Victor Reader Trek will be profiled. We will demonstrate the many features that the Trek possesses over its predecessor, the Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation. Is the significant increase in cost worth the reward? Does the GPS work as advertised? Those who have this device are welcome to come and share their experiences. 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 AM and last about 60 minutes:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
4) 37th Annual CSUN Assistive Technology Conference
March 14th 2022 through March 18th 2022 | The 2022 Conference will be held March 14-18 at the Anaheim Marriott. The Conference explores all aspects of assistive technology, starting with pre-conference workshops followed by more than 250 educational sessions and a free Exhibit Hall opening on Wednesday, March 16th 2022. We are excited to return to an in-person conference and look forward to having you join us in Anaheim where we will demonstrate the changes we've made to improve the conference experience:
https://www.csun.edu/cod/conference/sessions/
5) Screen Reader User Tester Training Program | Carroll Center for the Blind | Become a Screen Reader User Tester and Launch Your Career in Digital Accessibility
March 14th 2022 | Want to break into the field of digital accessibility as a screen reader user tester? A new session of the Carroll Center for the Blind's popular 7-week, face-to-face Screen Reader User Tester Training program starts on March 14, 2022. Come learn and grow your ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers during this intensive training program. If you're interested in gaining the foundation to develop a solid career path in the digital accessibility field while making a difference as a screen reader user tester, reach out today. Spots are filling up fast! To learn more, visit the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program page at: https://carroll.org/screen-reader-user-tester-training-program/. To apply, please reach out to the admissions team at the Carroll Center by emailing admissions@carroll.org 📧️ or by calling (617) 969-6200 📱️, extension 216.
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/
7) Section 508 Questions and Answers | U.S. Access Board
March 29th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Technical questions can arise in applying the Section 508 Standards to the various types of information and communication technologies (ICT) that they cover in the federal sector. In this webinar, Section 508 Specialists at the U.S. Access Board and the General Services Administration (GSA) will provide answers to common questions about the 508 Standards. They will address use of the 508 Standards in ICT acquisitions, validating conformance with the standards, available Section 508 tools and resources, the 2021 revision of the Federal Acquisition Regulation, development of an ICT Testing Baseline portfolio, and other topics. This session is intended for entry-level to intermediate audiences, but all are welcome to join. This webinar will include video remote interpreting (VRI) and real-time captioning. Questions can be submitted in advance of the session or can be posed during the live webinar. Continuing Education Recognition Available:
https://www.access-board.gov/webinars/2022/03/29/section-508-questions-and-answers/
8) 2022 Access | The Age of Digital Inclusion | 3Play Media
March 29th 2022 through April 1st 2022 | #ACCESS2022 | We can't wait to see you virtually! What accessibility accommodations will you provide?
We will offer live professional captioning for all sessions in-person and online. Additional accommodations can be requested while ordering your ticket, or by emailing us at events@3playmedia.com 📧️. Please let us know by March 1, 2022. Will sessions be recorded? Yes! All sessions will be recorded and available for replay. You will be notified by email when the recordings are ready. Is the event free? Yes! The event is free. Our mission is to provide a space where professionals can connect with one another. We want to ensure that everyone who wants to learn about accessibility has access. Who is 3Play Media? We are a video accessibility company providing services in closed captioning, audio description, translation, transcription, and live captioning. Agenda, speakers and registration here:
https://www.3playmedia.com/access/
9) Webinar: How Any Organization Can Start Small but Deliver Big with Accessibility | TPGi
March 30th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Presenter: Charlie Pike, Platform Success Lead. 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. If you have found yourself reluctant to dip your toe into digital accessibility because of one or more of these reasons, you're not alone! But TPGi is here to offer you a solution. In this webinar, Charlie Pike, Platform Success Lead at TPGi, will show you exactly how any size business can quickly start Phase I of an accessibility program with ARC without spending a lot of money. Attendees will learn how they can assess the scope of their business's accessibility responsibilities, start with prioritized small changes that have a big impact, and pay for only what they use. Charlie will also debunk myths about accessibility (e.g., it's all or nothing, there's no benefit to the company, it's only possible and really necessary for large enterprise organizations, etc.)
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-march-30-at-12pm-et-how-any-organization-can-start-small-but-deliver-big-with-accessibility/
10) Grocery Delivery Services and Websites | Technology User Group
April 9th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. Yes, there are plenty of delivery services and if you are a tech guru, you have access to all of it. But what if you don't have those skills and still need grocery delivery?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
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
12) 13th Annual CUNY Accessibility Conference
April 11th, 12th, 13th and 14th 2022 | Four Day Virtual Event. The State of Accessibility: Are We Living Up to the Promise of Compliance and the Law? Each year, the CUNY Accessibility Conference brings together hundreds of participants from the New York City region and across North America to discuss accessibility, disability services and disability activism in the context of postsecondary education. Two years after the start of an unprecedented pandemic and resultant transitions nationwide, we are returning to our foundation. The conference theme for 2022 is The State of Accessibility: Are we living up to the promise of compliance and the law? With this theme we hope to reflect topics such as on meeting the promise, falling short, advancements the law did not anticipate, and moving beyond a legal framework of accessibility. Submit your Proposal. Proposals are due by February 21st. Presentations will be 60 minutes long along with an extra 15 minutes for questions and answers (total 75 minutes). You will be notified by the committee regarding the acceptance of your proposal by March 8th. For questions, please email Tania Kalaitzidis at akalaitzidis@qcc.cuny.edu 📧️. Please fill out our Call for Proposals form at:
https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=s_BgbwZfCU6XFZiduozH2I_mhufqVMhKkF6nbAPJwLhUNUE3RTEwMDg3TkVMM1lPTUhCNVRKUjhFVyQlQCN0PWcu
13) American Foundation for the Blind Leadership Conference (AFBLC)
May 2nd 2022 through May3rd 2022 | Hyatt Regency Arlington, Virgina. Join us for the American Foundation for the Blind's Leadership Conference (AFBLC), which will take place at the Hyatt Regency, Arlington, Virginia this year. We aim to create a world of no limits for people who are blind. We are committed to putting inclusion to work, which will be a major emphasis of our 2022 AFBLC. AFBLC provides a forum in which leaders from a variety of fields-including research, technology, education, corporations, health and government organizations-have the opportunity to expand their knowledge of best practices, refine leadership skills, identify inclusion practices that work, and share concerns and strategies. The Migel Medal, the highest honor in the blindness field, as well as the Corinne Kirchner Research Award and the newly established Llura Gund Leadership Award will be presented at the AFB Leadership Conference. We look forward to gathering with you to explore the conference themes of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility:
https://www.afb.org/about-afb/events-and-awards/afblc2022?sourceid=&ms=N422JAN2EM3LC&emci=613b769b-b58e-ec11-a507-281878b83d8a&emdi=e828bc7c-418f-ec11-a507-281878b83d8a&ceid=8505425
14) Premium services using Alexa and Google | Technology User Group
May 14 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. Alexa and Google are adding premium services to their skill set. How do you subscribe to these services and use them?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
15) Gadgets and Aapps for Safe Navigation | Technology User Group
June 11th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. There are many apps and devices that can aid a visually impaired traveler through the unknown. Avoid low-hanging obstacles and other obstructions. Which ones can you afford and which ones offer the best protection?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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: Double Tap TV
➜ Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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
The DannyBoy Portable Stand holds your Smart Phone stationary so it's camera can view items and documents clearly providing stability for excellent recognition & clarity. Take perfect pictures and scan images. Read documents quickly and easily. Great for anyone with motor disabilities, too! Made with the Blind In Mind! Lightweight & Portable. Ready To Use or Collapses In Seconds. Read All About the DannyBoy Portable Stand at DannyBoy.com in BlindMiceMegaMall.com at:
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
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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
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
➜ VisionAware Resources: The Reader's Digest Getting Started Guide to Vision Loss
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
➜ 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/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
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)
➜ Start Your Coding Journey Today with APH's Road to Code!
Want to learn more about coding but don't know where to start? Look no further! APH's Road to Code provides a roadmap for coding progression through all our fun and engaging coding products.
https://bit.ly/3HueRfI
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: Highlighting Hands-Free Leather Pouches For Any Use or Need
We now have 4 different options to choose from: (1) Our $15 4x6' Basic with two phone compartments and a snap pocket on one side and a full size slot on the other; (2) a sturdier version with velcro rather than a snal pocket; $20 (3) Rugged leather pouch that can handle the largest phones; $30, or (4) Our "Gadget essentials" 6x8' cowhide pouch with 5 compartments that will expand to 3 inches across, $40. All can also be worn cross-body. For more info or to order, call Barry at (617) 969-7500 📱️ | bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️ or Kae at (781) 286-1696 📱️ | guidelightdogs@gmail.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
➜ 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
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 📱️.
Your Name Here
0 of 12 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 0 of 12 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, March 3, 2022 - Volume 848
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.
Subscribers: 7,094 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email.
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.) The Top 10 Breakthrough Technologies of 2022 | MIT Technology Review (6.0% of all clicks.)
https://www.technologyreview.com/2022/02/23/1045416/10-breakthrough-technologies-2022/
B.) 10 Pairs of Common Tech Terms That Are Often Confused (5.4% of all clicks.)
https://www.makeuseof.com/common-tech-terms-that-are-often-confused/
C.) Enhancements in JAWS 2022.2202.38 | February 2022 (4.9% of all clicks.)
https://support.freedomscientific.com/downloads/jaws/JAWSWhatsNew#latest
D.) The 7 Best Tabletop Radios (4.3% of all clicks.)
https://www.makeuseof.com/best-tabletop-radios/
E.) JAWS Power Tip: Getting Help in JAWS (4.1% of all clicks.)
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/59.html
2) How To Navigate Tidbits Using A Screen Reader Part 2. A Semantic Argument. Top Tech Tidbits Modifies Its Custom Email Template Once Again. We Thought It Was Perfect. Then A Reader Recommended Something Much More Simple.
Back on January 13th 2022 we published an article titled "How To Navigate Tidbits Using A Screen Reader. Tidbits Reader Feedback Plus Publisher Rant Answers The Question: Do Users of Screen Reader Technology Read Advertisements?" In this article we outlined updates that we made to the Tidbits Email Template intended to make navigating the newsletter even easier for screen reader users. And it was a huge success. So maybe we should have left it alone. You be the judge:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/60.html
3) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: Outlook 365 and the Focused Inbox
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/61.html
4) You Can Now Use Amazon Alexa Devices to Talk With a Doctor
If you have an Amazon Echo, Echo Dot or Echo Show device, you can now summon medical care with a simple voice command. On Monday, February 28th 2022 Teladoc Health, one of the largest telemedicine companies in the US, announced its partnership with Amazon to launch a "virtual care" service that will allow Amazon users to connect with health care providers via Echo devices. Just say, "Alexa, I want to talk to a doctor:"
https://www.cnet.com/home/smart-home/you-can-now-use-amazon-alexa-devices-to-talk-with-a-doctor/#ftag=CADf328eec
5) Office Accessibility | Copy and Paste Behavior in MS Word | Customizing The Behavior to Your Personal Liking, And Overriding It When Necessary | Brian Vogel
A question was raised on another group about checking to see if text pasted into a document from another source was in the correct font and point size to match the document into which it was pasted. Having to do this all the time can become a grand PITA if you are putting together something where cut and paste from multiple sources is involved. There is a much easier way, and that is customizing your Cut, Copy, and Paste behaviors in the MS Word Options, Advanced Pane, Cut, Copy, & Paste section:
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/1791
6) News For Turkish Speaking Android Users
The Blind Android Users Podcast now has a sister site for all Turkish speaking Android users with resources on getting started with Android and more, all in the Turkish language:
http://erisilebilirandroid.com/
7) Microsoft Outlines The Improvements In Store For Notepad - RTF, Syntax Highlighting And More
Notepad has been a core app in Windows since the operating system's first version. However, unlike other features in the OS, the text editor wasn't the recipient of improvements:
https://www.ghacks.net/2022/02/24/notepad-in-windows-11-could-support-rtf-syntax-highlighting/
8) Hable One Discussion List
A place to ask questions regarding the Hable One. This Listserv has also been added to the Top Tech Tidbits BVI Listserv Directory. Learn more about it and subscribe at:
https://groups.io/g/hablecommunity
9) How To Batch Rename Multiple Files On Windows 10
On Windows 10, changing the name of one file is easy. The problem is when you have to rename many files in a specific folder. If you have to rename a long list of files, you can speed up the process using File Explorer, PowerShell, Command Prompt, and even the Microsoft PowerToys app:
https://www.windowscentral.com/how-rename-multiple-files-bulk-windows-10
10) Accessibility Interview Questions
These questions try to stay away from asking people to recite specifications, or rattle off screen reader hot keys. Those can easily be looked up on the job. Instead these questions try to act as conversation starters, to gain insight into how someone solves problems, and interprets accessible, inclusive user experiences. Questions are grouped into four buckets: General, Technical, Design, and Content:
https://scottaohara.github.io/accessibility_interview_questions/
11) AppleVis Unlimited: What's New and Noteworthy for February 2022
https://www.applevis.com/newsletter/applevis-unlimited-whats-new-noteworthy-february-2022
12) A Guide To Writing Accessible Image Captions
Making your social media profiles accessible to the majority of people stumbling across your posts is an intentional practice. From Instagram and Twitter photo descriptions to captioning audio on your TikTok videos, you have to consciously add these accessibility considerations. It's something you should absolutely do to ensure your accounts are navigable by people with various disabilities. Don't fret: You have most of the tools at your disposal:
https://mashable.com/article/how-to-write-accessible-image-captions
13) What Every Programmer Should Know About Digital Accessibility
Planning your apps to effectively serve disabled people is paramount in today's world. Is your software prepared?
https://www.makeuseof.com/what-every-programmer-should-know-about-digital-accessibility/
14) Grant Will Help Develop Braille Device For Lab Science Students
Sci-Dot is a multiline Braille device that collects and analyzes scientific data to create a more inclusive laboratory experience for blind and deaf-blind students:
https://www.newsbug.info/lafayette_leader/news/purdue/grant-will-help-develop-braille-device-for-lab-science-students/article_edcdd316-23eb-5f46-8b91-b084c69a6522.html
15) How Close Are We To Curing Blindness?
The state of bionic eyes, gene therapies, and other advanced treatments:
https://www.freethink.com/health/curing-blindness
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) AccessReady Reporter For February 24th 2022
http://accessreadyreporter.org/issue-24-feburary-24-2022.html
2) Access Ready Makes Major Policy Moves At The National Level
The Reporter Newsletter is a service of Access Ready Inc. which is an independent, non-profit, cross-disability education and advocacy organization promoting a policy of inclusion and accessibility of information and communications technology (ICT). For people with disabilities, accessible information and communications technology is a necessity, not a luxury or a convenience, which fosters independence, economic self-sufficiency, and active, meaningful participation in civic life:
https://www.streetinsider.com/PRNewswire/Access+Ready+Makes+Major+Policy+Moves+At+The+National+Level/19679217.html
3) Protecting Your Children From The Dangers of the Internet | YouTube - Double Tap TV - March 1st 2022
As a parent no task seems as daunting as explaining the dangers of the internet. Where do you even begin? How do you do it without scaring them? One company has taken on that task with programs and software to help out parents everywhere:
https://bit.ly/321OUEy
4) White House Unveils COVID Plan Focused On People With Disabilities
Following criticism from disability advocates, the Biden administration is taking new steps to better address the needs of people with disabilities during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic:
https://www.disabilityscoop.com/2022/02/28/white-house-unveils-covid-plan-focused-on-people-with-disabilities/29722/
5) Major Progress In Mainstream Accessibility by Chris Hofstader
https://www.chrishofstader.com/major-progress-in-mainstream-accessibility/
6) LEGO Braille Bricks Help Blind Children Learn to Read
LEGO is rolling out a new toy to increase literacy in blind and partially sighted children: Braille Bricks. More than just a construction game, each of these colorful blocks is molded into a letter, number, or punctuation mark of the braille writing system:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-sensory-revolution/202101/lego-braille-bricks-help-blind-children-learn-read#:~:text=LEGO%20is%20rolling%20out%20a,a%20match%20made%20in%20heaven.
7) Disability Organizations Call On DOJ To Finalize Online Accessibility Rules
An embarrassingly small percentage of the web is compliant with ADA guidelines:
https://www.engadget.com/disability-organizations-letter-calling-for-online-accessibility-rules-215716138.html
8) A Guide to Dental Care for Children with Autism
Children with autism are likely to suffer many more oral health problems, including tooth decay, gum disease and dental injury, than children without autism. Many autistic kids have sensory sensitivities that make it difficult to maintain an effective oral hygiene routine. These issues may also make visits to the dentist challenging:
https://www.byte.com/community/resources/article/dental-care-children-with-autism-guide/
9) Visually Impaired People Call For More Restaurants To Have Accessible Menus
People with visual impairments are calling for more restaurants to have menus available in braille, saying accessible menus helps people feel more independent, included, and able to try new foods:
https://www.itv.com/news/central/2022-02-25/visually-impaired-people-call-for-more-restaurants-to-have-accessible-menus
10) Everything You Need to Know About Smart Locks
Smarthomes are increasingly popular, and one of the areas you can smarten up is your door locks. But what are the advantages? Is it safe? And if your phone runs out of battery, will you end up sleeping in the garden shed?
https://www.reviewgeek.com/107596/everything-you-need-to-know-about-smart-locks/
11) CVS Introduces New Line Of 'Functional And Stylish' Home Health Products That Makes Everyday Life More Accessible For Aging Adults And Disabled People
Drugstore giant CVS Pharmacy announced this week via press release the introduction of six home health care products developed in collaboration with Michael Graves Design. The modernized collection was developed for aging adults, caregivers, and disabled people; the goal was to help them lead fuller, more independent lives by making self-care easier. The products include analog assistive technologies such as canes, walkers, shower chairs, and commodes:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/stevenaquino/2022/02/23/cvs-introduces-new-line-of-functional-and-stylish-home-health-products-that-makes-everyday-life-more-accessible-for-aging-adults-and-disabled-people/?sh=3c7aaa704cc0
12) 2021 Was Gaming Accessibility's Best Year - Can 2022 Outdo It?
A look into how the game industry can evolve past achievements earned in 2021:
https://www.pcgamesn.com/elden-ring/gaming-accessibility-2022
13) Ontario Investing in a More Accessible Central Ontario
Province investing over $600,000 in programs that help make the province more accessible and inclusive:
https://news.ontario.ca/en/release/1001657/ontario-investing-in-a-more-accessible-central-ontario
14) Student Organization Pushes For Universal Design And Disability Education
Bulldogs for Universal Design, or BUD, is a new student group advocating for equality and protecting the rights of disabled students through their advocacy, education and allyship:
https://thebutlercollegian.com/2022/02/student-organization-pushes-for-universal-design-and-disability-education/
15) First Successful Implantation of Revolutionary Artificial Vision Brain Implant
While there is currently no cure for blindness, a first-of-its-kind artificial vision system has undergone its first successful implantation, bringing with it the potential to restore partial vision to people who have lost their sight:
https://scitechdaily.com/first-successful-implantation-of-revolutionary-artificial-vision-brain-implant/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther 45 | Must-Have Knives and Sharpening Blind
February 20th 2022 | This episode of AMI Audio's podcast Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther explores the must-have knives for both outdoor adventuring and food prep at camp and in the kitchen. Ms. Lilly describes each knife, and Lawrence consults with a knife collector, a Scout leader and a fishing guide for their advice. Lawrence then describes the best way to sharpen knives as someone without sight. So, check your bandage supply, and learn why knives need to be sharp to be safe:
https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/episode-45-must-have-knives-and-sharpening-blind/id1530444764?i=1000551693570
2) FSCast 211 | Chancey Fleet Talks Training Workshops Offered By The New York Public Library, And An Intro To Working At The Windows Command Prompt
February 23rd 2022 | On FSCast 211, Chancey Fleet discusses training workshops offered by the New York Public Library, many of which are online and available to everyone. She's also quite the expert on 3D printing and will share some resources for doing that accessibly. Then Glen demonstrates using the new Windows Terminal, and gives an introduction to working at the Windows Command Prompt:
https://blog.freedomscientific.com/fscast-211-chancey-fleet-talks-training-workshops-offered-by-the-new-york-public-library-and-an-intro-to-working-at-the-windows-command-prompt/
3) Blind Android Users 64 | Managing App Notifications, Permissions and More
February 26th 2022 | This week our friends from Turkey launch a sister site of blind Android users, this site is for Turkish speaking users only. We show you how to manage your apps permissions and notifications. For the spotlite segment, John Dyer unboxes his Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra. We have another episode of talkback highlites. You can listen to our podcast on all smart speakers, popular podcast playing apps and Youtube. To listen to the podcast on our website, please visit:
https://blindandroidusers.com/category/bauposts/shownotes/
4) DM89 | Loopback To Mac
March 1st 2022 | In DM89, Loopback to Mac we start out with a brief follow-up from episode 88. A brief discussion about how we open files on the mac using Launchbar prompts Damashe to ask Michael what he is doing on the mac. Michael shares why he is looking at the Mac and his thoughts about using it. We share a little information about Loopback with Voiceover, and how Damashe got started with it. Michael asks Damashe if he finds himself in a situation where he should know how to do something however just can't grasp the mental concept? Damashe's answer to Michael is a suggestion that all of us can use in life. Damashe and Michael then share some tips for navigating around the loopback interface with voiceover:
https://yourownpay.com/dm89
5) Eyes on Success 2209 Succeeding Despite the Odds
March 2nd 2022 | How does a visually impaired person find rewarding employment? Sometimes it isn't easy. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Ulysses Harmony Garcia about how she overcame obstacles as a blind individual by acquiring experience as a volunteer, participating in a job training program, working as an intern, and finally landing a job:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202209.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Speechify | Network of Assistive Technologists
March 4th 2022 | 10:30AM PT, 11:30AM MT, 12:30PM CT, 1:30PM ET, 6:30PM GMT | Public event. Join us as we welcome the Founder & CEO of Speechify Cliff Weitzman, Kenny the Speechify Product Manager, & Matt their Account Executive. An interactive presentation exploring the team and philosophy behind Speechify, complete with live demonstrations, feature discussions, and an understanding of their educational licensing structure:
http://noat.link/events
2) Accommodation Solutions for Executive Functioning Deficits | AskJan
March 10 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | Executive functions are high-level mental processes or abilities that influence and direct more basic abilities like attention and memory. Join JAN Cognitive/Neurological Team consultants Melanie Whetzel and Alexis Popa for a discussion about accommodation solutions that address limitations affecting attention, time management, memory, hyperactivity/impulsivity, and getting to work on time. This training will be a live question and answer session but will include JAN accommodation examples to prompt thinking about the topics and generate questions about the difficulties you or your employees are experiencing on the job that involve attention, meeting deadlines, productivity standards, and more:
https://askjan.org/events/index.cfm?calview=eventdetails&dtid=8915ADD3-BF08-73CC-570AFACA27FE7DCE
3) Using the GPS in the Victor Reader Trek | Technology User Group
March 12th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | On Saturday, March 12th, the Victor Reader Trek will be profiled. We will demonstrate the many features that the Trek possesses over its predecessor, the Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation. Is the significant increase in cost worth the reward? Does the GPS work as advertised? Those who have this device are welcome to come and share their experiences. 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 AM and last about 60 minutes:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
4) 37th Annual CSUN Assistive Technology Conference
March 14th 2022 through March 18th 2022 | The 2022 Conference will be held March 14-18 at the Anaheim Marriott. The Conference explores all aspects of assistive technology, starting with pre-conference workshops followed by more than 250 educational sessions and a free Exhibit Hall opening on Wednesday, March 16th 2022. We are excited to return to an in-person conference and look forward to having you join us in Anaheim where we will demonstrate the changes we've made to improve the conference experience:
https://www.csun.edu/cod/conference/sessions/
5) Screen Reader User Tester Training Program | Carroll Center for the Blind | Become a Screen Reader User Tester and Launch Your Career in Digital Accessibility
March 14th 2022 | Want to break into the field of digital accessibility as a screen reader user tester? A new session of the Carroll Center for the Blind's popular 7-week, face-to-face Screen Reader User Tester Training program starts on March 14, 2022. Come learn and grow your ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers during this intensive training program. If you're interested in gaining the foundation to develop a solid career path in the digital accessibility field while making a difference as a screen reader user tester, reach out today. Spots are filling up fast! To learn more, visit the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program page at: https://carroll.org/screen-reader-user-tester-training-program/. To apply, please reach out to the admissions team at the Carroll Center by emailing admissions@carroll.org 📧️ or by calling (617) 969-6200 📱️, extension 216.
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/
7) Section 508 Questions and Answers | U.S. Access Board
March 29th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Technical questions can arise in applying the Section 508 Standards to the various types of information and communication technologies (ICT) that they cover in the federal sector. In this webinar, Section 508 Specialists at the U.S. Access Board and the General Services Administration (GSA) will provide answers to common questions about the 508 Standards. They will address use of the 508 Standards in ICT acquisitions, validating conformance with the standards, available Section 508 tools and resources, the 2021 revision of the Federal Acquisition Regulation, development of an ICT Testing Baseline portfolio, and other topics. This session is intended for entry-level to intermediate audiences, but all are welcome to join. This webinar will include video remote interpreting (VRI) and real-time captioning. Questions can be submitted in advance of the session or can be posed during the live webinar. Continuing Education Recognition Available:
https://www.access-board.gov/webinars/2022/03/29/section-508-questions-and-answers/
8) 2022 Access | The Age of Digital Inclusion | 3Play Media
March 29th 2022 through April 1st 2022 | #ACCESS2022 | We can't wait to see you virtually! What accessibility accommodations will you provide?
We will offer live professional captioning for all sessions in-person and online. Additional accommodations can be requested while ordering your ticket, or by emailing us at events@3playmedia.com 📧️. Please let us know by March 1, 2022. Will sessions be recorded? Yes! All sessions will be recorded and available for replay. You will be notified by email when the recordings are ready. Is the event free? Yes! The event is free. Our mission is to provide a space where professionals can connect with one another. We want to ensure that everyone who wants to learn about accessibility has access. Who is 3Play Media? We are a video accessibility company providing services in closed captioning, audio description, translation, transcription, and live captioning. Agenda, speakers and registration here:
https://www.3playmedia.com/access/
9) Webinar: How Any Organization Can Start Small but Deliver Big with Accessibility | TPGi
March 30th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Presenter: Charlie Pike, Platform Success Lead. 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. If you have found yourself reluctant to dip your toe into digital accessibility because of one or more of these reasons, you're not alone! But TPGi is here to offer you a solution. In this webinar, Charlie Pike, Platform Success Lead at TPGi, will show you exactly how any size business can quickly start Phase I of an accessibility program with ARC without spending a lot of money. Attendees will learn how they can assess the scope of their business's accessibility responsibilities, start with prioritized small changes that have a big impact, and pay for only what they use. Charlie will also debunk myths about accessibility (e.g., it's all or nothing, there's no benefit to the company, it's only possible and really necessary for large enterprise organizations, etc.)
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-march-30-at-12pm-et-how-any-organization-can-start-small-but-deliver-big-with-accessibility/
10) Grocery Delivery Services and Websites | Technology User Group
April 9th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. Yes, there are plenty of delivery services and if you are a tech guru, you have access to all of it. But what if you don't have those skills and still need grocery delivery?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
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
12) 13th Annual CUNY Accessibility Conference
April 11th, 12th, 13th and 14th 2022 | Four Day Virtual Event. The State of Accessibility: Are We Living Up to the Promise of Compliance and the Law? Each year, the CUNY Accessibility Conference brings together hundreds of participants from the New York City region and across North America to discuss accessibility, disability services and disability activism in the context of postsecondary education. Two years after the start of an unprecedented pandemic and resultant transitions nationwide, we are returning to our foundation. The conference theme for 2022 is The State of Accessibility: Are we living up to the promise of compliance and the law? With this theme we hope to reflect topics such as on meeting the promise, falling short, advancements the law did not anticipate, and moving beyond a legal framework of accessibility. Submit your Proposal. Proposals are due by February 21st. Presentations will be 60 minutes long along with an extra 15 minutes for questions and answers (total 75 minutes). You will be notified by the committee regarding the acceptance of your proposal by March 8th. For questions, please email Tania Kalaitzidis at akalaitzidis@qcc.cuny.edu 📧️. Please fill out our Call for Proposals form at:
https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=s_BgbwZfCU6XFZiduozH2I_mhufqVMhKkF6nbAPJwLhUNUE3RTEwMDg3TkVMM1lPTUhCNVRKUjhFVyQlQCN0PWcu
13) American Foundation for the Blind Leadership Conference (AFBLC)
May 2nd 2022 through May3rd 2022 | Hyatt Regency Arlington, Virgina. Join us for the American Foundation for the Blind's Leadership Conference (AFBLC), which will take place at the Hyatt Regency, Arlington, Virginia this year. We aim to create a world of no limits for people who are blind. We are committed to putting inclusion to work, which will be a major emphasis of our 2022 AFBLC. AFBLC provides a forum in which leaders from a variety of fields-including research, technology, education, corporations, health and government organizations-have the opportunity to expand their knowledge of best practices, refine leadership skills, identify inclusion practices that work, and share concerns and strategies. The Migel Medal, the highest honor in the blindness field, as well as the Corinne Kirchner Research Award and the newly established Llura Gund Leadership Award will be presented at the AFB Leadership Conference. We look forward to gathering with you to explore the conference themes of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility:
https://www.afb.org/about-afb/events-and-awards/afblc2022?sourceid=&ms=N422JAN2EM3LC&emci=613b769b-b58e-ec11-a507-281878b83d8a&emdi=e828bc7c-418f-ec11-a507-281878b83d8a&ceid=8505425
14) Premium services using Alexa and Google | Technology User Group
May 14 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. Alexa and Google are adding premium services to their skill set. How do you subscribe to these services and use them?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
15) Gadgets and Aapps for Safe Navigation | Technology User Group
June 11th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. There are many apps and devices that can aid a visually impaired traveler through the unknown. Avoid low-hanging obstacles and other obstructions. Which ones can you afford and which ones offer the best protection?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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: HIMS, Inc.
➜ Order Now! Get The Most Powerful Android Notetaker Available, the BrailleSense 6 From HIMS. It's Simply The Best.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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
The DannyBoy Portable Stand holds your Smart Phone stationary so it's camera can view items and documents clearly providing stability for excellent recognition & clarity. Take perfect pictures and scan images. Read documents quickly and easily. Great for anyone with motor disabilities, too! Made with the Blind In Mind! Lightweight & Portable. Ready To Use or Collapses In Seconds. Read All About the DannyBoy Portable Stand at DannyBoy.com in BlindMiceMegaMall.com at:
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
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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
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
➜ VisionAware Resources: The Reader's Digest Getting Started Guide to Vision Loss
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
➜ 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/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
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)
➜ Start Your Coding Journey Today with APH's Road to Code!
Want to learn more about coding but don't know where to start? Look no further! APH's Road to Code provides a roadmap for coding progression through all our fun and engaging coding products.
https://bit.ly/3HueRfI
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: Cables!
I hate cables; cheap ones that come w/things you buy, or that break or just stop working. We found a steel core rope braided 5 and 10 foot length with lightning, usbc, and microusb, each with a 15 inch extension held on by a brass collar. Charge and transfer for 3 devices at once. 300 sold, only 5 replaced for free as we will do for 180 days. $25 for 10ft; $18 for 5ft. iPhone splitter w/lightning and 3.5mm adapters or w/2 lightning adapters to charge while listening, $25. And now, lightning to 3.5mm. stereo cable to record from your iphone to a Stream or Trek; $45 w/tutorial. Call Barry at (617) 969-7500 📱️ | bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️ or Kae at (781) 286-1696 📱️ | guidelightdogs@gmail.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
➜ 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
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
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
Your Name Here
0 of 12 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 0 of 12 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, February 24, 2022 - Volume 847
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.
Subscribers: 7,079 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email.
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.) New and Emerging AT from CES 2022 (8.1% of all clicks.)
https://at3centerblog.com/2022/02/15/new-and-emerging-at-from-ces-2022/
B.) JAWS Power Tip: Personalizing Web Settings (6.3% of all clicks.)
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/58.html
C.) The TouchPad Pro: A Multi-line Braille Display in Development (6.2% of all clicks.)
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/1707
D.) Soundscape + LinkBuds (4.4% of all clicks.)
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/product/soundscape/linkbuds/
E.) 10 Breakthrough Technologies of 2021 (4.2% of all clicks.)
https://www.technologyreview.com/2021/02/24/1014369/10-breakthrough-technologies-2021/
2) FDA Clears The First iPhone App For Delivering Insulin, Rollout Starts This Spring
The Food and Drug Administration has cleared what is described as the first-ever smartphone application capable of initiating insulin delivery on both iOS and Android operating systems. The system here comes from Tandem Diabetes Care, and the application ties in to the company's t:slim X2 insulin pump:
https://9to5mac.com/2022/02/17/fda-clears-the-first-iphone-app-for-delivering-insulin-rollout-starts-this-spring/
3) JAWS Power Tip: Getting Help in JAWS
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/59.html
4) You've Got Questions - We've Got Answers - We Hope! | YouTube - Double Tap TV - February 22nd 2022
Our viewers aren't shy about sending us their tech questions to bring in the big guns to tackle them all. Shaun Preece joins Steven (Scott) and Marc (Aflalo) to answer them all:
https://bit.ly/321OUEy
5) The Top 10 Breakthrough Technologies of 2022 | MIT Technology Review
We primed you for this last week with a recap of the Top 10 Breakthrough Tecnologies of 2021. Without further ado, here is the 2022 list:
https://www.technologyreview.com/2022/02/23/1045416/10-breakthrough-technologies-2022/
6) Enhancements in JAWS 2022.2202.38 | February 2022
Jaws, Zoomtext, and Fusion had updated this week. Changes to sentence navigation to accommodate other apps, new voices and languages, and improved navigation in Excel were among some of the enhancements:
https://support.freedomscientific.com/downloads/jaws/JAWSWhatsNew#latest
7) NVDA 2021.3.2 Released
NVDA also has an update addressing some security fixes:
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/nvda-2021-3-2/
8) There Is No Character Limit For "Alt Text"
This article explains that alternative text can be of any length so long as it is descriptive:
https://yatil.net/blog/there-is-no-character-limit-for-alt-text
9) Accessible Technology (Software)
Here is a Trello board with a breakdown of accessible assistive technology and their use cases created by Joshua Hori, Accessibility Coordinator at University of California, Davis:
https://trello.com/b/rirGA3kZ/accessible-technology-software
10) Intel's 12th Gen Alder Lake Chips For Thinner And Lighter Laptops Have Arrived
This is an upgrade to Intel's processors designed for mobile computing primarily aimed at consumer laptops. The Verge has more details:
https://www.theverge.com/2022/2/23/22941383/intel-12th-gen-alder-chips-p-series-u-laptops-release-date
11) My Thoughts on Accessibility of NFTs and Web3
Crystal Preston-Watson describes accessibility challenges while purchasing NFTs in this well-written article. She concludes that similar accessibility issues exist for NFTs as do other more traditional web transactions:
https://a11ysavvy.com/2022/02/13/my-thoughts-on-accessibility-of-nfts-and-web3/
12) 10 Pairs of Common Tech Terms That Are Often Confused
When you talk about technology, you come across various confusing terminologies. As technology is evolving continuously, newer terms emerge every day. It is essential to understand the terms and their meanings if you want to utilize and implement them properly. Here we have prepared a list of pairs of terms that are sometimes difficult to differentiate and used interchangeably by mistake:
https://www.makeuseof.com/common-tech-terms-that-are-often-confused/
13) What's New in iOS 15: A Guide for Blind Users | National Braille Press | Various Formats | $18.00 to $20.50
Anna Dresner starts by helping you get your iDevice updated with the new iOS 15 operating system, and then walks you through what's new, starting with changes to VoiceOver and other key accessibility changes. Coverage includes: Configuring focus and notifications; finding information on your phone; new audio features; privacy and online services; iPad changes; new Home screen options; new features in the FaceTime, Messages, Health, Wallet, Safari, Weather, and Find My apps; and much more:
https://www.nbp.org/ic/nbp/IOS15-NEW.html
14) The Top New Features in Apple's iOS 15
Face ID will finally work with your face mask in iOS 15.4:
https://www.wired.com/story/apple-iphone-ios-15-ipados-15-new-features/
15) Browsing and Searching a Groups.io Group Archive | Brian Vogel
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/1734
16) Introducing Voxmate: An Accessible and Reliable Suite of Apps
With Voxmate, you can make calls, scan printed text, read news, listen to audiobooks, play games, chat on the Audio Forum and more with just four swipe gestures — up, down, left and right. The app gives you instant feedback and reads aloud every content or menu item. It has an intuitive, easy-to-remember interface that is repeated in every Voxmate app, so you don't have to create a separate mental model for each feature:
https://www.sightandsound.co.uk/introducing-voxmate-an-accessible-and-reliable-suite-of-apps/
17) Recording | Smart Cooking Appliances Workshop From The Florida Outreach Center For The Blind
This past week the Florida Outreach Center for the Blind hosted a workshop where Jason Goldfield demonstrated the use of three kitchen appliances which can be accessed with a smart speaker such as an Amazon Echo. You can play or download the file by accessing the following link:
https://onedrive.live.com/?authkey=%21APQ5BJjcQKBOfvU&cid=857B1DC1FD52182B&id=857B1DC1FD52182B%2115450&parId=857B1DC1FD52182B%2113921&o=OneUp
18) Using The Language Attribute To Make Your Website Accessible
There's a couple of criteria in the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines that I see catching people out time and time again. 3.1.1 Language of page and 3.1.2 Language of parts. These two criteria are important, because they help screen readers to read out the language correctly. If your page is set to English, but some of your content is not in English, then the screen reader is just going to attempt to pronounce it in English anyway, which can lead to some pretty weird results:
https://www.craigabbott.co.uk/blog/using-the-language-attribute-to-make-your-website-accessible
19) Recording | Aira Presentation | February 19th 2022
On February 19, 2022, a representative from Aira was gracious enough to give a presentation on their service to the NFB of SC and others from around the country. This Presentation was arranged by the Computer Science and Technology Division of the NFB of SC:
https://nfbofsc.org/aira-presentation/
20) In-Process - NV Access - February 21st 2022
https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-22nd-february-2022/
21) Which Smartphone Keyboard To Choose: Hable One Vs Rivo?
In the age of technology, there are many assistive devices out there making phones and computers more accessible to people who are blind and visually impaired. In the search of the best braille keyboard you might have seen many brands, Hable One and Rivo among them. But how exactly do they differ? In this blog, they give you a comparison of the two:
https://www.iamhable.com/blog/hable-one-vs-rivo
22) Talking Bathroom Scale For Weighing Yourself In 2022
This accessible bathroom scale is for people with visual impairments. The Taylor 7084 Talking Digital Scale is ideal for those with poor eyesight or for anyone who simply doesn't want to look down at the scale's readout. The 7084 announces the weight reading out loud in English, Spanish, Greek, German or Croatian. Not only does this talking scale help you to monitor your weight, it also complements your bathroom décor:
https://coolblindtech.com/talking-bathroom-scale-for-weighing-yourself-in-2022/
23) How iPhone And Apple Watch Can Help Protect You From Hearing Loss
iPhone and Apple Watch include a wide range of valuable health features and a couple of them that don't get much attention include measuring ambient and headphone noise levels. Read along for a look at how to protect from hearing loss by checking decibel levels on iPhone and Apple Watch:
https://9to5mac.com/2022/02/21/check-decibel-levels-on-iphone-and-apple-watch/
24) 4 Key Takeaways from Thinking with Reginé Gilbert: Inclusive and Accessible Products
Recently, Think Company hosted a talk by Reginé Gilbert. An Industry Assistant Professor at NYU's Tandon School of Engineering, Reginé teaches User Experience Design to students in the Integrated Digital Media Program and is the author of Inclusive Design for a Digital World. We were fortunate to have her speak at Think Company about inclusive and accessible digital products — practices at the core of our values:
https://www.thinkcompany.com/blog/4-key-takeaways-from-thinking-with-regine-gilbert-inclusive-and-accessible-products/
25) The 7 Best Tabletop Radios
Although the popularity of smartphones in the past decade has increased tremendously, there is still something special that makes tabletop radios worth buying. Tabletop radios are practical and easy to use, giving you total control of manually or automatically tuning to your favorite radio station with ease. When shopping for tabletop radios, some key features you should consider are reception, durability, portability, and sound clarity. Here are the best tabletop radios you can buy today:
https://www.makeuseof.com/best-tabletop-radios/
26) 20+ Headphone Statistics Savvy Buyers Need To Know
When headphones were first conceived toward the end of the 19th Century, they were designed to free an individual's hands while using a telephone. A different kind of telephone is still central to the use of contemporary headphones; it's called a cell phone. As technology improves and mobile phones become more abundant, the global headphones market is expected to grow rapidly in the coming years:
https://uk.shokz.com/blogs/news/20-headphone-statistics-savvy-buyers-need-to-know
27) New Tech Could Help Blind People To See
Medical advancements are becoming increasingly more profound as the years progress forward. It is now commonplace to wear smart devices capable of tracking vital stats such as heart rate or oxygen saturation. The Apple Watch has even helped to save numerous people's lives who have suffered falls in remote areas because of its capability to detect such an occurrence and alert the paramedics. The BBC detailed that medical tech is now taking another big step forward with bionic eyes that can help people to see who can't:
https://www.tellmebest.com/bionic-eyes-help-blind-people-see/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Accessible Information Vs The PDF: Are You Breaking The Law?
Accessible information is gaining ground on the war against the PDF. In fact, presenting information only in accessible PDFs is becoming illegal. But, will an accessible web design be too expensive of an overhaul? The answer might just surprise you:
https://pneumasolutions.com/accessible-information-vs-the-pdf-are-you-breaking-the-law/
2) New Summer Camp Launched For Blind And Visually Impaired
Camp Abilities Four Corners wants to open up the world of sports to visually impaired and blind students at a new camp June 12-17 in northern Arizona. Adaptive practices allow students to play basketball, soccer and golf and compete in swimming:
https://www.the-journal.com/articles/new-summer-camp-launched-for-blind-and-visually-impaired/
3) Blind People Stagnating At Work Due To Inaccessible Technology, Says New Study
Bringing "your whole self to Work" has been an important mantra within diversity circles over the past few years. However, according to a new study carried out by the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB), employees with sight loss continue to be hampered in in carrying out the bare essentials of their jobs by their employer's lack of knowledge and commitment to digital accessibility:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/gusalexiou/2022/02/22/blind-people-stagnating-at-work-due-to-inaccessible-technology-says-new-study/
4) The Hidden Image Descriptions Making the Internet Accessible
In an image-saturated world — over 63 million were uploaded to Instagram alone in a single day in February, according to Internet Live Stats — it can be difficult for people who are blind or have low vision to fully experience the web:
https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2022/02/18/arts/alt-text-images-descriptions.html
5) Interview: Blind Streamer Rattlehead Explains How He Plays Pro Mortal Kombat
Even at a basic level, playing well in a fighting game isn't just about just memorizing moves, but also being able to react to your opponent. Knowing how to pull off specials and combos will help, but if you can't mix it up depending on what the other guy is going, you won't get very far. That level of multitasking is hard enough, so how would you do it without being able to see what the other player is doing? Carlos Vasquez, also known as Rattlehead, does just that. As a blind gamer, he doesn't just play Mortal Kombat casually — he's a pro:
https://www.thegamer.com/mortal-kombat-11-rattlehead-blind-player-pro-accessibility/
6) Patients With Bionic Eyes Fear for Sight As Company Discontinues Technology
More than 350 blind people around the world who received retinal implants manufactured by an American company — which provide them with an artificial form of vision — discovered that the technology has been discontinued and the firm will no longer be offering repairs or replacements, sparking fears for their futures, according to a report:
https://www.newsweek.com/blind-patients-bionic-eyes-fear-sight-company-discontinues-technology-second-sight-argus-1680715
7) The Teacher Who Wants Everyone to Fall in Love with Braille
Juventino Jiménez, a visually impaired indigenous Ayuujk and teacher of the braille system, talks about the usefulness of the raised dots and how to use them in everyday life:
https://observatory.tec.mx/edu-news/the-teacher-who-wants-everyone-to-fall-in-love-with-braille
8) Growing Into Braille Technology | Carroll Center for the Blind
At five years old, an age when most kindergarteners were just beginning to learn individual letter names and sounds, I remember working with the Perkins Brailler. The Perkins Brailler is similar to a typewriter and produces braille on paper instead of producing it electronically:
https://carroll.org/news/growing-into-braille-technology/
9) Envision Grows Dallas Footprint With More Jobs For Blind, Visually Impaired
Envision's purchase of a new campus in the Dallas area is another indicator of the demand for jobs for those who are blind or visually impaired, said David Stupay, managing director of Envision Dallas:
https://www.bizjournals.com/dallas/news/2022/02/21/envision-david-stupay-dallas-footprint.html
10) Persons Who are Deaf-blind Need a Seat at the Legal Table
11) Congressional Lawmakers Want Investigation Into USPS Program For The Visually impaired
Maryland U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen and other congressional leaders want the post office's inspector general to investigate a program for the blind and visually impaired after reports of delayed delivery of materials under the program:
https://baltimore.cbslocal.com/2022/02/17/congressional-lawmakers-want-investigation-into-usps-program-for-the-visually-impaired/
12) Meet the Teacher Empowering Visually Impaired Students With Next-Gen Tech
Special hardware and training from HP is helping make education accessible at this historic North Carolina school for the blind:
https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/meet-teacher-empowering-visually-impaired-152010883.html
13) Architecture Students Design Playground For Visually Impaired Children
NC State's Freedom By Design is a club of architecture students with the purpose of providing service to the community by utilizing the students' design skills. The club — a program under the American Institute of Architecture Students — is currently working on a playground for the Governor Morehead School (GMS), which serves the visually impaired. The club has been working on the playground for a few years, with setbacks due to the pandemic:
https://www.technicianonline.com/news/architecture-students-design-playground-for-visually-impaired-children/article_e36a200c-8f8a-11ec-9d37-c3108789ef66.html
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Blind Android Users 63 | App Management from System Settings
February 19th 2022 | We are listed as the 5th best Android related podcast on the Feedspot Blog. This week, we move along the settings to show how to manage your apps. In our app of the week segment, we demo Shortwave a new email client from ex Google employees. We show the up and curve right jesture in talkback highlights. You can listen to our podcast on all smart speakers, popular podcast playing apps and Youtube. To listen to the podcast on our website, please visit:
https://blindandroidusers.com/category/bauposts/shownotes/
2) Eyes on Success 2208 Extreme Sports - Rock Climbing
February 23rd 2022 | John Churcher's experience is proof that it is never too late to begin something new. Inspired by a friend later in life, he soon became an avid rock climber. Hosts Nancy and Peter talk with John about what rock climbing means to him, how he does it as a blind person, and about some of his adventures including scaling the Eiger, a several day endeavor:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202028.htm
3) ATW360 Black History Month 22! MS' Teams & Community Leaders
February 23rd 2022 | Back again and ever powerful, grab the remote and turn us up baby! Today we give flowers to three incredible Black entrepreneurs all representing various industry but connected and focused on community legacy and long term building. Additionally, we take a drive around the Microsoft Teams app for iOS, demonstrating two ways of creating instant meetings! "Black history means much more when its knocking at your front door." #ATW360 Paschall Access Solutions.
https://accesstechwatch360.podbean.com/e/atw360-black-history-month-22-ms-teams-community-leaders/
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) FSOpenLine, Freedom Scientific's Live Call-In Show
February 24th 2022 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 8PM GMT | Our next FSOpenLine takes place on Thursday, February 24, 2022, at 3 PM Eastern time. Join Glen Gordon, our Chief Technology Officer, Rachel Buchanan, User Education and Outreach Manager, and Eric Damery, Freedom Scientific's Vice President Software Product Management, and get your questions answered. Participate in FSOpenLine. We are hosting FSOpenLine on the Zoom conferencing platform. Join via Zoom. Additionally, we will broadcast live on Clubhouse. This audio chat app is available on iOS and Android devices. Join Clubhouse directly at this link for FSOpenLine. We will also stream live on our YouTube Training Channel, Facebook page, and Twitter page. You will have the opportunity to ask questions in Zoom and on Clubhouse, but not through any of these social media pages. Have questions? Email training@vispero.com 📧️ for assistance. Can't attend? FSOpenLine will be recorded and made available on the FSCast podcast.
2) Taking Your Accessibility Statement To The Next Level
February 24th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | The accessibility statement is a familiar public expression of an organization's commitment to digital accessibility. In the European Union, legislation mandates public organizations provide a web accessibility statement in a particular format. Elsewhere, accessibility statements are often limited to a generic and vague expression of a future ideal, or present overly detailed technical information (which can quickly become dated and inaccurate). But they can be so much more. Join David Sloan, head of UX at TPGi and a 20-year accessibility veteran, in an exploration on how your organization can take advantage of the many opportunities an effective accessibility statement or microsite can bring to your accessibility efforts. For example, you can use it to: Describe accessibility features you provide. Effectively report on your progress and plans. Provide a trusted communication channel for people with disabilities. We'll also look at strategies for managing your accessibility statement content as it evolves over time. Don't pass up this exciting chance to learn how you can take advantage of an accessibility statement's possibilities. If you are using Internet Explorer and have cookies disabled (either via privacy mode or decline cookies on the website), you may not be able to register through this form. If you are still unable to register, please email ida@tpgi.com 📧️ with your name and contact information. Ida will arrange the registration on your behalf:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-february-24-at-12pm-et-taking-your-accessibility-statement-to-the-next-level/
3) Exploring Core Applications On The Braillesense 6 And Braillesense Polaris | Sight And Sound Technology
February 24th 2022 | 21PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 8PM GMT | We're delighted to announce a new series of BrailleSense training sessions.
Our last series was extremely popular and, based on feedback received, we are focusing this time on some of the core applications on the BrailleSense 6 and Polaris devices. We'll be exploring, over four weeks, the power of the BrailleSense's word processor, file manager, email application and DAISY player. Each session will run for one hour, commencing at 8:00 pm GMT on Thursday February 3rd, and running each week until February 24th. The complete schedule is below. Thursday 3rd February: Introducing the BrailleSense file manager. Thursday 10th February: Exploring BrailleSense email. Thursday 17th February: All you wanted to know about the BrailleSense word processor. Thursday 24th February: Introducing the BrailleSense DAISY player. Whether you use a BrailleSense 6 or a BrailleSense Polaris, these sessions will hopefully be of use:
https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJEkd--vrj0sE9zMK6rgyDMQMbE3fYuYf8DH
4) Breast Cancer Webinar for Women Who Are Blind | Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind
February 25th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | On February 25, 2022, please join Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind as we discuss accessible breast cancer information, detection and prevention for blind women and their families with these expert presenters: Dr. Kim Kubek, MD: Pennsylvania Diagnostic Breast Cancer Center and https://www.breastcancer.org/. Dr. Kristen Capece, PharmD, BCGP: Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind. Dr. Jill Lykon, PharmD, BCOP: University of Miami Hospital. Agenda: 12:00 - Welcome. 12:05 - Dr. Kim Kubek: Breast Cancer Overview and How to Self-Exam. 12:50 - American Cancer Society: Accessible Cancer Resources. 1:00 - Dr. Kristen Capece: Cancer Medications. 1:15 - Dr. Jill Lykon: Impact of Chemotherapy on Medication and Diabetes. This webinar will have captioning and a live ASL interpreter. Eligible attendees can receive CE credit for participating. If you are unable to attend, still be sure to register to receive access to the webinar audio and video after the event, as well as an audio description of a breast self-exam for women who are blind or have low vision:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_caNB11QmS4a4KjJyBnZWwQ
5) Virtual Assistive Technology Expo | School of Medicine Columbia | University of South Carolina
March 1st 2022 | 5:30AM PT, 6:30AM MT, 7:30AM CT, 8:30AM ET, 1:30 PM GMT | Join us March 1, 2022 for a full day of fast-paced sessions showcasing the latest assistive technology for people with a wide range of disabilities. This year's expo will be presented virtually and two $50 gift cards will be given away after each session so register today:
https://www.sc.edu/study/colleges_schools/medicine/centers_and_institutes_new/center_for_disability_resources/assistive_technology/expo/index.php
6) Webinar: Mobile-Accessibility Testing Toolbox | TPGi
March 2nd 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Presenter: Laurie Pagano, Senior Accessibility Engineer. 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 Senior 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:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-march-2-at-12pm-et-mobile-accessibility-testing-toolbox/
7) Accommodation Solutions for Executive Functioning Deficits | AskJan
March 10 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | Executive functions are high-level mental processes or abilities that influence and direct more basic abilities like attention and memory. Join JAN Cognitive/Neurological Team consultants Melanie Whetzel and Alexis Popa for a discussion about accommodation solutions that address limitations affecting attention, time management, memory, hyperactivity/impulsivity, and getting to work on time. This training will be a live question and answer session but will include JAN accommodation examples to prompt thinking about the topics and generate questions about the difficulties you or your employees are experiencing on the job that involve attention, meeting deadlines, productivity standards, and more:
https://askjan.org/events/index.cfm?calview=eventdetails&dtid=8915ADD3-BF08-73CC-570AFACA27FE7DCE
8) Using the GPS in the Victor Reader Trek | Technology User Group
March 12th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | On Saturday, March 12th, the Victor Reader Trek will be profiled. We will demonstrate the many features that the Trek possesses over its predecessor, the Victor Reader Stream 2nd Generation. Is the significant increase in cost worth the reward? Does the GPS work as advertised? Those who have this device are welcome to come and share their experiences. 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 AM and last about 60 minutes:
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
9) 37th Annual CSUN Assistive Technology Conference
March 14th 2022 through March 18th 2022 | The 2022 Conference will be held March 14-18 at the Anaheim Marriott. The Conference explores all aspects of assistive technology, starting with pre-conference workshops followed by more than 250 educational sessions and a free Exhibit Hall opening on Wednesday, March 16th 2022. We are excited to return to an in-person conference and look forward to having you join us in Anaheim where we will demonstrate the changes we've made to improve the conference experience:
https://www.csun.edu/cod/conference/sessions/
10) Screen Reader User Tester Training Program | Carroll Center for the Blind | Become a Screen Reader User Tester and Launch Your Career in Digital Accessibility
March 14th 2022 | Want to break into the field of digital accessibility as a screen reader user tester? A new session of the Carroll Center for the Blind's popular 7-week, face-to-face Screen Reader User Tester Training program starts on March 14, 2022. Come learn and grow your ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers during this intensive training program. If you're interested in gaining the foundation to develop a solid career path in the digital accessibility field while making a difference as a screen reader user tester, reach out today. Spots are filling up fast! To learn more, visit the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program page at: https://carroll.org/screen-reader-user-tester-training-program/. To apply, please reach out to the admissions team at the Carroll Center by emailing admissions@carroll.org 📧️ or by calling (617) 969-6200 📱️, extension 216.
11) 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/
12) Section 508 Questions and Answers | U.S. Access Board
March 29th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Technical questions can arise in applying the Section 508 Standards to the various types of information and communication technologies (ICT) that they cover in the federal sector. In this webinar, Section 508 Specialists at the U.S. Access Board and the General Services Administration (GSA) will provide answers to common questions about the 508 Standards. They will address use of the 508 Standards in ICT acquisitions, validating conformance with the standards, available Section 508 tools and resources, the 2021 revision of the Federal Acquisition Regulation, development of an ICT Testing Baseline portfolio, and other topics. This session is intended for entry-level to intermediate audiences, but all are welcome to join. This webinar will include video remote interpreting (VRI) and real-time captioning. Questions can be submitted in advance of the session or can be posed during the live webinar. Continuing Education Recognition Available:
https://www.access-board.gov/webinars/2022/03/29/section-508-questions-and-answers/
13) 2022 Access | The Age of Digital Inclusion | 3Play Media
March 29th 2022 through April 1st 2022 | #ACCESS2022 | We can't wait to see you virtually! What accessibility accommodations will you provide?
We will offer live professional captioning for all sessions in-person and online. Additional accommodations can be requested while ordering your ticket, or by emailing us at events@3playmedia.com 📧️. Please let us know by March 1, 2022. Will sessions be recorded? Yes! All sessions will be recorded and available for replay. You will be notified by email when the recordings are ready. Is the event free? Yes! The event is free. Our mission is to provide a space where professionals can connect with one another. We want to ensure that everyone who wants to learn about accessibility has access. Who is 3Play Media? We are a video accessibility company providing services in closed captioning, audio description, translation, transcription, and live captioning. Agenda, speakers and registration here:
https://www.3playmedia.com/access/
14) Webinar: How Any Organization Can Start Small but Deliver Big with Accessibility | TPGi
March 30th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Presenter: Charlie Pike, Platform Success Lead. 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. If you have found yourself reluctant to dip your toe into digital accessibility because of one or more of these reasons, you're not alone! But TPGi is here to offer you a solution. In this webinar, Charlie Pike, Platform Success Lead at TPGi, will show you exactly how any size business can quickly start Phase I of an accessibility program with ARC without spending a lot of money. Attendees will learn how they can assess the scope of their business's accessibility responsibilities, start with prioritized small changes that have a big impact, and pay for only what they use. Charlie will also debunk myths about accessibility (e.g., it's all or nothing, there's no benefit to the company, it's only possible and really necessary for large enterprise organizations, etc.)
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-march-30-at-12pm-et-how-any-organization-can-start-small-but-deliver-big-with-accessibility/
15) Grocery Delivery Services and Websites | Technology User Group
April 9th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. Yes, there are plenty of delivery services and if you are a tech guru, you have access to all of it. But what if you don't have those skills and still need grocery delivery?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
16) 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
17) 13th Annual CUNY Accessibility Conference
April 11th, 12th, 13th and 14th 2022 | Four Day Virtual Event. The State of Accessibility: Are We Living Up to the Promise of Compliance and the Law? Each year, the CUNY Accessibility Conference brings together hundreds of participants from the New York City region and across North America to discuss accessibility, disability services and disability activism in the context of postsecondary education. Two years after the start of an unprecedented pandemic and resultant transitions nationwide, we are returning to our foundation. The conference theme for 2022 is The State of Accessibility: Are we living up to the promise of compliance and the law? With this theme we hope to reflect topics such as on meeting the promise, falling short, advancements the law did not anticipate, and moving beyond a legal framework of accessibility. Submit your Proposal. Proposals are due by February 21st. Presentations will be 60 minutes long along with an extra 15 minutes for questions and answers (total 75 minutes). You will be notified by the committee regarding the acceptance of your proposal by March 8th. For questions, please email Tania Kalaitzidis at akalaitzidis@qcc.cuny.edu 📧️. Please fill out our Call for Proposals form at:
https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=s_BgbwZfCU6XFZiduozH2I_mhufqVMhKkF6nbAPJwLhUNUE3RTEwMDg3TkVMM1lPTUhCNVRKUjhFVyQlQCN0PWcu
18) American Foundation for the Blind Leadership Conference (AFBLC)
May 2nd 2022 through May3rd 2022 | Hyatt Regency Arlington, Virgina. Join us for the American Foundation for the Blind's Leadership Conference (AFBLC), which will take place at the Hyatt Regency, Arlington, Virginia this year. We aim to create a world of no limits for people who are blind. We are committed to putting inclusion to work, which will be a major emphasis of our 2022 AFBLC. AFBLC provides a forum in which leaders from a variety of fields-including research, technology, education, corporations, health and government organizations-have the opportunity to expand their knowledge of best practices, refine leadership skills, identify inclusion practices that work, and share concerns and strategies. The Migel Medal, the highest honor in the blindness field, as well as the Corinne Kirchner Research Award and the newly established Llura Gund Leadership Award will be presented at the AFB Leadership Conference. We look forward to gathering with you to explore the conference themes of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility:
https://www.afb.org/about-afb/events-and-awards/afblc2022?sourceid=&ms=N422JAN2EM3LC&emci=613b769b-b58e-ec11-a507-281878b83d8a&emdi=e828bc7c-418f-ec11-a507-281878b83d8a&ceid=8505425
19) Premium services using Alexa and Google | Technology User Group
May 14 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. Alexa and Google are adding premium services to their skill set. How do you subscribe to these services and use them?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
20) Gadgets and Aapps for Safe Navigation | Technology User Group
June 11th 2022 | 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 3PM GMT | All events are currently being held via teleconference until further notice. No programs will be held in person. Please dial (319) 527-4994 📱️ at 10 AM ET. There are many apps and devices that can aid a visually impaired traveler through the unknown. Avoid low-hanging obstacles and other obstructions. Which ones can you afford and which ones offer the best protection?
https://www.marylandlibraries.org/Pages/Technology%20User%20Group.aspx
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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: Blind Mice Mega Mall
➜ DannyBoy Portable Smart Phone & Device Stand Save 20% Now $39.99
The DannyBoy Portable Stand holds your Smart Phone stationary so it's camera can view items and documents clearly providing stability for excellent recognition & clarity. Take perfect pictures and scan images. Read documents quickly and easily. Great for anyone with motor disabilities, too! Made with the Blind In Mind! Lightweight & Portable. Ready To Use or Collapses In Seconds. Read All About the DannyBoy Portable Stand at DannyBoy.com in BlindMiceMegaMall.com at:
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
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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
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
➜ VisionAware Resources: The Reader's Digest Getting Started Guide to Vision Loss
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
➜ 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/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
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)
➜ Start Your Coding Journey Today with APH's Road to Code!
Want to learn more about coding but don't know where to start? Look no further! APH's Road to Code provides a roadmap for coding progression through all our fun and engaging coding products.
https://bit.ly/3HueRfI
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: Cables!
I hate cables; cheap ones that come w/things you buy, or that break or just stop working. We found a steel core rope braided 5 and 10 foot length with lightning, usbc, and microusb, each with a 15 inch extension held on by a brass collar. Charge and transfer for 3 devices at once. 300 sold, only 5 replaced for free as we will do for 180 days. $25 for 10ft; $18 for 5ft. iPhone splitter w/lightning and 3.5mm adapters or w/2 lightning adapters to charge while listening, $25. And now, lightning to 3.5mm. stereo cable to record from your iphone to a Stream or Trek; $45 w/tutorial. Call Barry at (617) 969-7500 📱️ | bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️ or Kae at (781) 286-1696 📱️ | guidelightdogs@gmail.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
➜ 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
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
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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.
Your Name Here
0 of 12 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 0 of 12 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, February 17, 2022 - Volume 846
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.
Subscribers: 7,070 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email.
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.) How to Send a Fax from an iPhone or Android Smartphone (6.0% of all clicks.)
https://helpdeskgeek.com/how-to/how-to-send-a-fax-from-an-iphone-or-android-smartphone/
B.) JAWS Power Tip: Desktop vs Laptop Keyboard Setting (5.7% of all clicks.)
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/57.html
C.) How To Use A Smart Plug As An "On-Call" Button (3.8% of all clicks.)
https://staceyoniot.com/how-to-use-a-smart-plug-as-an-on-call-button/
D.) Office Accessibility | The Ribbon Interface, Accessibility, and You, the Screen Reader User | Brian Vogel (3.6% of all clicks.)
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/1655
E.) 6 Ways to Type and Enter Text on an Apple Watch (3.4% of all clicks.)
https://www.makeuseof.com/ways-to-type-enter-text-apple-watch/
2) What Does The Future Look Like From An Accessibility Point Of View? | YouTube - Double Tap TV - February 15th 2022
Dave Dame has Cerebral Palsy and heads up accessibility at Microsoft. He joins us to discuss his vision of an accessible future of working from home:
https://bit.ly/321OUEy
3) 'There Is Progress, But Much More Is Needed' For The Visually Impaired To Experience Events Like The Super Bowl
There was at least one demographic missing when companies paid millions to advertise on Super Bowl Sunday. The blind or partially sighted had no audio description of the commercials:
https://www.wvxu.org/podcast/focus-on-technology/2022-02-14/more-progress-needed-visually-impaired-watch-events-super-bowl
4) Snap Layouts, Snap Assist, and Snap Groups in Windows 11 | Windows 11 Series, Lesson 10 | dSurf
In this lesson you learn how the new snap layout grid and snap groups appear visually in Windows 11. Learn the concept behind their use, and how to use snap assist to quickly and easily create new snap groups. Instructions are given for both mouse and keyboard users. Also learn where to find the settings for snap windows in the Windows 11 Settings app. Snap layouts allow you to organize apps and windows by grouping them together side-by-side or in other arrangements visually on the screen in snap groups. Snap layouts are customized to fit the size of your PC screen. Up to six different layout grids may be available on some large screens. In lesson ten of our Windows 11 with JAWS series you learn the following: Describe the how the snap layout grid and snap groups appear visually to others. The concept behind the use of snap groups. Use snap assist to create groups more easily. Describe at least two of the more commonly used snap layouts. Use a mouse or keyboard to add apps to a snap group. Use a mouse or keyboard to explore and use the task. Switcher lists for snap groups on the Taskbar. Video Heading Times (4 headings): 00:55 Introduction. 01:59 Mouse User Instructions. 06:06 Keyboard User Instructions. 12:50 Snap Windows Settings. #Windows11 #JAWS #education #training:
Web: https://dsurf.net/windows-11-training/snap-windows11/
YouTube: https://dsurf.net/windows-11-training/snap-windows11
5) JAWS Power Tip: Personalizing Web Settings
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/58.html
6) Google Turns Old Macs, Pcs Into Chromebooks With Chrome OS Flex
This is a possible way to make older computers accessible using Chrome OS. Probably best used in schools and in developing countries:
https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2022/02/google-turns-old-macs-pcs-into-chromebooks-with-chrome-os-flex/
7) Windows 11's First Big Update Arrives With Android Apps, Taskbar Changes, And More
Using Android apps on Windows may be beneficial for certain assistive technologies, like Voice Dream Reader, LearningAlly and the like:
https://www.theverge.com/2022/2/15/22934562/microsoft-windows-11-february-2022-update-android-apps-taskbar-improvements
8) Soundscape + LinkBuds
Sony has released new earbuds that have features specific to Microsoft's Soundscape. They have an open-ear design which allows users to hear environmental sounds while using them:
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/product/soundscape/linkbuds/
Gizmodo has reviewed the earbuds here:
https://gizmodo.com/sony-linkbuds-review-1848451412
9) Microsoft Just Made This Controversial Change To Boost Your PC Security
You will no longer be able to run macros in Microsoft Office applications without first enabling them. Opening documents in "Protected view" will no longer be enough:
https://www.tomsguide.com/news/microsoft-macro-blocking
10) Spinner Overlays For The Light Box Feedback Request
APH wants your feedback if you use overlays for the lightbox with students:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WSVXZ88
11) Voice Access On Android Makes Your Phone Easier To Navigate Without All That Tapping
The feature is designed to help make the phone more accessible for anyone with a disability, but can also be used when your hands are full:
https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/voice-access-on-android-makes-your-phone-easier-to-navigate-without-all-that-tapping/#ftag=CAD590a51e
12) Apple Releases iOS 15.3.1 and iPadOS 15.3.1 With Fix for Bug That Could Cause Braille Displays to Become Unresponsive
Apple's release notes say: "iOS 15.3.1 provides important security updates for your iPhone and fixes an issue that may cause Braille displays to stop responding:"
https://www.applevis.com/blog/apple-releases-ios-1531-ipados-1531-fix-bug-could-cause-braille-displays-become-unresponsive
13) The TouchPad Pro: A Multi-line Braille Display in Development
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/1707
14) Are You Being Tracked by an AirTag? Here's How to Check
Useful advice for anyone worried that one of Apple's trackers is following them without consent:
https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-find-airtags/
15) New and Emerging AT from CES 2022
5 innovative assistive technology (AT) products to know about from January's Consumer Electronics Show (CES):
https://at3centerblog.com/2022/02/15/new-and-emerging-at-from-ces-2022/
16) Mac Users, Update Zoom Now - Your Microphone May Be Spying On You
The pesky orange indicator light stays on after meetings end:
https://www.tomsguide.com/news/zoom-mac-microphone-listening
17) Zoom Still Using Mac Microphone Outside Of Calls Despite Fix, Claim Users
Zoom has been dealing with a bug that means it keeps listening to your Mac microphone once calls have ended. The company was supposed to have fixed this in a recent update. Some users say the problem still persists:
https://www.imore.com/zoom-still-using-mac-microphone-outside-calls-despite-fix-claim-users
18) 10 Breakthrough Technologies of 2021 | MIT Technology Review
As they prepare to release the 2022 list, our Publisher thought it prudent to reflect briefly on last year's list:.
https://www.technologyreview.com/2021/02/24/1014369/10-breakthrough-technologies-2021/
19) Hadley Launches New Interactive Braille Workshop
Hadley recently launched Braille for Everyday Use, a series of interactive workshops that includes a workbook mailed to users homes and accompanying audio instruction available by phone or online. With advances in technology and assistive devices, many with vision loss can now read documents and browse the internet. Screen reading software makes computers, cell phones and other electronic devices accessible. Yet more people with vision loss are embracing braille for its ease and practicability assisting in daily routines, including identifying buttons in an elevator, labeling a pill bottle, or figuring out which public restrooms are for men or women:
https://coolblindtech.com/hadley-launches-new-interactive-braille-workshop/
20) How Computer Simulations Of Vision Loss Create More Empathetic Buildings For The Visually Impaired
Here is a look at four challenges identified from their research and how the design responds accordingly:
https://www.bdcnetwork.com/blog/how-computer-simulations-vision-loss-create-more-empathetic-buildings-visually-impaired
21) Windows 11 Will Get New Features On A More Regular Basis, Says Microsoft
New features will roll out to Windows 11 users outside of major OS releases:
https://www.windowscentral.com/windows-11-feature-drops-more-regular-basis
22) Project Rainbow at Pactera EDGE Seeks Persons Who Live with Vision Loss or Blindness or a Speech Impairment
We are making AI more inclusive for everyone! We are looking for people who live with vision loss or blindness, or a speech impairment to send 25-50 pictures and 1 short video following our guidelines. Your contribution will help the development of Artificial Intelligence, moving towards a much more accessible world! Please sign up today if you are interested or share the info with your friends! This is a paid study and can be done remotely. The images collected will be used for training purposes only in machine learning. If you'd like to apply, please email: recruitment@pacteraedge.com 📧️. Remember to mention Rainbow in the subject line and let us know where you saw the post:
https://knowledgebase.oneforma.com/?page_id=3217
23) Intel, GoodMaps Collaborate On Mapping Software Project To Make Indoor Navigation More Accessible
Shortly after Christmas, chipmaker giant Intel published a press release in which they announced a collaboration with GoodMaps to "deliver a high-quality indoor way-finding solution for people who are Blind or visually impaired:"
https://www.forbes.com/sites/stevenaquino/2022/02/14/intel-goodmaps-collaborate-on-mapping-software-project-to-make-indoor-navigation-more-accessible/?sh=1225dfc01c74
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) The Social Model: Do We Disable People Through Our Tech?
Here is a good article about the social model of disability applied to the technology industry:
https://www.getstark.co/blog/the-social-model-do-we-disable-people-through-our-tech
2) New App Seeks To Identify, Solve Accessibility Barriers At Public Sites In Laval
A new mobile application could be the secret to fixing accessibility problems in publicly funded institutions, such as hospitals, pools and schools, according to the Laval disability rights group ROPPHL:
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/laval-accessibility-app-1.6348086
3) A New Wayfinding App For Vision-Impaired Users Found Its Way To DC
The UK's Waymap, which is making DC its US home, is designed to help people who are blind or have limited vision move around the city:
https://technical.ly/2022/02/14/waymap-wayfinding-app-vision-impaired/
4) A Book For The Visually Impaired 'Blindness And The Power Of Inner Vision' By Dr Hilary Marlow | YouTube
Visually impaired people who love reading have a new book to lay their fingers on. Blindness and the power of Inner Vision, written by Dr Hilary Marlow, is out in both print and braille form. The book by the UK-based author is a biography of Advocate RW Bowen, one of the founders of the South African National Council for the Blind. It was launched in Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape in partnership with the South African National Council for the Blind:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L2LiCuD26Ls
5) Web Accessibility Is Good For Your Soul-And For Business
Few websites go the whole nine yards to make themselves fully accessible to the disabled. Yet compliance with the W3C's Web Content Accessibility Guidelines is well worth the effort:
https://www.computerworld.com/article/3649989/web-accessibility-is-good-for-your-soul-and-for-business.html
6) Reflections On 30 Years In The Accessibility Field | Peter Korn
30 years ago, on February 10, 1992, I began my accessibility career as the junior software engineer on the outSPOKEN screen reader team at Berkeley Systems. Thanks to my successful interviews with company CEO Wes Boyd, head of engineering (and my boss to be) Jack Eastman, and key members of the accessibility team: Jane Berliss, Josh Miele, and Marc Sutton, I got my start in this amazing, incredible, fulfilling field:
https://peterkorn.wordpress.com/2022/02/10/reflections-on-30-years-in-the-accessibility-field/
7) ASL And Deaf Culture Classes Are Part Of An Expanded Focus On Disability And Accessibility
Students in Daniel Maier's ASL 102 course are among the first cohort able to fulfill their Princeton language requirement with American Sign Language, which is now the basis of five ASL language courses at the University. Princeton also offers the class "American Deaf Culture:"
https://www.princeton.edu/news/2022/02/11/asl-and-deaf-culture-classes-are-part-expanded-focus-disability-and-accessibility
8) Vispero Names Seasoned Technology Executive Bob Ciminera Chief Executive Officer
Vispero, the world's largest digital accessibility and assistive technology provider for the visually impaired, and Vector Capital portfolio company, today announced that Tom Tiernan is retiring from his position as Chief Executive Officer of the company and that seasoned technology executive Bob Ciminera has been appointed to the role, effective immediately:
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220210005259/en/Vispero-Names-Seasoned-Technology-Executive-Bob-Ciminera-Chief-Executive-Officer
9) Group Continues To Fight For Accessible At-Home COVID-19 Tests For The Blind
Only 1 of the 13 available COVID-19 tests approved by the FDA is accessible to the blind and visually impaired. The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) is working to change that:
https://whnt.com/news/coronavirus/group-continues-to-fight-for-accessible-at-home-covid-19-tests-for-the-blind/
10) Able Fit Is Creating A Comfortable Fitness Space For Disabled Adults To Workout And Make Friends
Two certified speech language pathologists who also happen to be certified fitness trainers are making it easy for disabled adults to get into fitness and strength training:
https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2022/02/able-fit-is-creating-a-comfortable-fitness-space-for-disabled-adults-to-workout-and-make-friends.html
11) Improving Accessibility Is A Journey Best Navigated With The Help Of Experts
Entrepreneurs face a number of challenges on their journey to becoming successful business owners:
http://elitebusinessmagazine.co.uk/start-up-diaries/item/improving-accessibility-is-a-journey-best-navigated-with-the-help-of-experts
12) What It's Like to Create Accessible Beauty Products for a Living
In her 21 years at Procter & Gamble, Sam Latif has worked on some of the most impactful examples of accessible beauty product design:
https://www.allure.com/story/sam-latif-accessible-beauty-product-design
13) Deadlines Are Set to Comment on EAS Changes
Deadlines have been set to file comments in the latest NPRM from the Federal Communications Commission concerning emergency alerting. The commission has a notice of proposed rulemaking that it says would improve the clarity and accessibility of visual Emergency Alert System messages to the public, particularly to people who are deaf or hard of hearing:
https://www.radioworld.com/news-and-business/headlines/deadlines-are-set-to-comment-on-eas-changes
14) Patent reveals Huawei is Developing Wearables that Help the Blind to Navigate their Daily Lives
Ever since Huawei got restricted by the US sanctions, the company has been diversifying its product catalog away from smartphones, and into the IoT(Internet of Things) business instead. The company has been branching out into other businesses, such as Smart TVs, Smartwatches, and even Smart Electric Cars. In fact, Huawei may be planning to release devices in new product categories too, like its own medical assistance device. Recently, a patent database revealed that the company is working on wearables that help the blind to navigate in their daily lives:
https://www.gizmochina.com/2022/02/09/patent-reveals-huawei-is-developing-wearables-that-help-the-blind-to-navigate-their-daily-lives/
15) Only 2% of Sites Meet Accessibility Standards. Let's Change That.
Long sentences and the use of jargon are just a few of the major barriers for consumers with disabilities:
https://www.adweek.com/media/only-2-of-sites-meet-accessibility-standards-lets-change-that/
16) PYMNTS Intelligence: The Importance of Digital Accessibility in Enhancing Loyalty and Brand Reputation
The digital transformation is in full swing, but despite all the positives it has brought, it also had created the potential for financial institutions (FIs) to overlook some of the most vulnerable customer populations if they are not careful. Digital accessibility standards have both practical and regulatory implications for FIs, and it will be imperative for FIs to balance speed to market with innovation to ensure all their channels are compliant:
https://www.pymnts.com/digital-first-banking/2022/pymnts-intelligence-the-importance-of-digital-accessibility-in-enhancing-loyalty-and-brand-reputation/
17) Tanzania: Govt Introduces Orbit Reader Technology to Visually Impaired Students
The government through the Tanzania Institute of Education (TET) has said that orbit visual aids for sight impaired pupils will bring positive change in the education sector:
https://allafrica.com/stories/202202090481.html
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Blind Android Users 62 | Connected Devices
February 13th 2022 | This week, we talk about all the new changes in the just released Android 13 Developer Preview 1. We also talk about new launches in the Galaxy Unpacked event. Then we moved to our next setting on the phone in which we show you connecting and using various peripherals such as Bluetooth keyboards, Chromecast TVs and speakers. We then demo an accessible Reddit client for android and in talkback highlights we talk about spoken language feature. You can listen to our podcast on all smart speakers, popular podcast playing apps and Youtube. To listen to the podcast on our website, please visit:
https://blindandroidusers.com/category/bauposts/shownotes/
2) DM88 - Serverless Club Calendars
February 15th 2022 | In the latest episode of The DM Series Damashe and Michael talk about how we are using the Soundcraft Signature 12MTK audio interface to bring audio between cleenfeed and clubhouse using AUX Sends. Our conversation then transitions into a discussion of how we block out time on our calendars. Including information about an update to a tool both of us use. Damashe shares what he is doing with AWS and discusses the merits of a serverless WordPress installation. Curious? You will have to tune in to hear more. Finally, we talk about our favorite weather apps with a mention of an event to come soon:
https://yourownpay.com/dm88
3) Eyes on Success 2207 Encore of 1502 Product Development at Humanware
February 16th 2022 | Bringing new products to market involves time, planning, and feedback from customers. This week, hosts Peter and Nancy Torpey talk with Dominic Labbé, Product Development Director for blindness related products at Humanware. He describes how the process works at Humanware and how products such as the Victor Reader are shepherded from concept to the marketplace:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202207.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Accessible Cooking Appliances | Florida Outreach Center For The Blind
February 17th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM ET GMT | Have you ever wondered how popular countertop home cooking appliances can operate hands free by just giving simple voice commands using an Amazon Echo for a Google home product? Think how these devices can be used to set the time, temperature, and cooking mode without touching a single button. Come join chef Jason Goldfield and his assistants along with The Florida Outreach Center for The Blind for our next workshop to learn how you can operate an air fryer, pressure cooker, and a microwave to cook simple and fabulous meals with ease. The workshop will be held Thursday, February 17th from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. (eastern) via the Zoom platform. A $25.00 door prize will be given out at the end of the presentation. To join the Zoom discussion, call (312) 626-6799 using Meeting Code 5616420005. Meeting ID: 561 642 0005. If joining us via Zoom us the Meeting Link is below:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5616420005
2) Prep and Proof Word Documents Using Track Changes and Comments with JAWS | Freedom Scientific
February 17th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Track Changes is a feature in Microsoft Word that allows you to view changes made to a document by you or other users. Comments in a Word document provide information from reviewers or collaborators without altering the document's text. This feature is great for asking questions or making suggestions. Join us on Thursday, February 17, 2022, at noon Eastern Time as we describe and demonstrate how to use the Track Changes and Comments features in Word. We'll show you how to: Turn on and navigate Track Changes. Accept or reject changes. Keep Track Changes turned on. Add and read comments. Reply to comments. Register:
https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_yu1HjdDGSjO06bQ-lGxM9w
3) Exploring Core Applications On The Braillesense 6 And Braillesense Polaris | Sight And Sound Technology
February 17th 2022 | 21PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 8PM GMT | We're delighted to announce a new series of BrailleSense training sessions.
Our last series was extremely popular and, based on feedback received, we are focusing this time on some of the core applications on the BrailleSense 6 and Polaris devices. We'll be exploring, over four weeks, the power of the BrailleSense's word processor, file manager, email application and DAISY player. Each session will run for one hour, commencing at 8:00 pm GMT on Thursday February 3rd, and running each week until February 24th. The complete schedule is below. Thursday 3rd February: Introducing the BrailleSense file manager. Thursday 10th February: Exploring BrailleSense email. Thursday 17th February: All you wanted to know about the BrailleSense word processor. Thursday 24th February: Introducing the BrailleSense DAISY player. Whether you use a BrailleSense 6 or a BrailleSense Polaris, these sessions will hopefully be of use:
https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJEkd--vrj0sE9zMK6rgyDMQMbE3fYuYf8DH
4) What Are Focus Braille Displays and the ElBraille Notetaker? (ACVREP CE Approved) | Access Ingenuity
February 23rd 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | The Focus Braille displays have been around for quite a long time. However, many may not know about the fifth-generation features. In addition, the 40-cell version can work in conjunction with the ElBraille Notetaker. Join Ian Ramos, Marisa Church, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity and Joe McDaniel from Vispero to learn about the Focus Braille displays and ElBraille Notetaker running on Windows to help determine if one or both these products would be beneficial to you. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: Discuss the Focus Braille displays, the new features, and the differences of the fifth-generation products. Introduce the ElBraille Notetaker that runs on Windows 10 and 11, coupled with the Focus fifth-generation Braille display. Discuss the features of the Focus Braille display and ElBraille Notetaker and provide scenarios where it is ideal to have only a Focus Braille display or both. Provide demonstrations and orientations of both the Focus and the ElBraille. Meeting ID: 845 9035 5826 | Passcode: 951549 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,84590355826#,,,,*951549# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84590355826?pwd=YXRvQjNRZ0JDYWtUamFNTUV3Y3J1Zz09
5) Taking Your Accessibility Statement To The Next Level
February 24th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | The accessibility statement is a familiar public expression of an organization's commitment to digital accessibility. In the European Union, legislation mandates public organizations provide a web accessibility statement in a particular format. Elsewhere, accessibility statements are often limited to a generic and vague expression of a future ideal, or present overly detailed technical information (which can quickly become dated and inaccurate). But they can be so much more. Join David Sloan, head of UX at TPGi and a 20-year accessibility veteran, in an exploration on how your organization can take advantage of the many opportunities an effective accessibility statement or microsite can bring to your accessibility efforts. For example, you can use it to: Describe accessibility features you provide. Effectively report on your progress and plans. Provide a trusted communication channel for people with disabilities. We'll also look at strategies for managing your accessibility statement content as it evolves over time. Don't pass up this exciting chance to learn how you can take advantage of an accessibility statement's possibilities. If you are using Internet Explorer and have cookies disabled (either via privacy mode or decline cookies on the website), you may not be able to register through this form. If you are still unable to register, please email ida@tpgi.com 📧️ with your name and contact information. Ida will arrange the registration on your behalf:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-february-24-at-12pm-et-taking-your-accessibility-statement-to-the-next-level/
6) Exploring Core Applications On The Braillesense 6 And Braillesense Polaris | Sight And Sound Technology
February 24th 2022 | 21PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 8PM GMT | We're delighted to announce a new series of BrailleSense training sessions.
Our last series was extremely popular and, based on feedback received, we are focusing this time on some of the core applications on the BrailleSense 6 and Polaris devices. We'll be exploring, over four weeks, the power of the BrailleSense's word processor, file manager, email application and DAISY player. Each session will run for one hour, commencing at 8:00 pm GMT on Thursday February 3rd, and running each week until February 24th. The complete schedule is below. Thursday 3rd February: Introducing the BrailleSense file manager. Thursday 10th February: Exploring BrailleSense email. Thursday 17th February: All you wanted to know about the BrailleSense word processor. Thursday 24th February: Introducing the BrailleSense DAISY player. Whether you use a BrailleSense 6 or a BrailleSense Polaris, these sessions will hopefully be of use:
https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJEkd--vrj0sE9zMK6rgyDMQMbE3fYuYf8DH
7) Breast Cancer Webinar for Women Who Are Blind | Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind
February 25th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | On February 25, 2022, please join Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind as we discuss accessible breast cancer information, detection and prevention for blind women and their families with these expert presenters: Dr. Kim Kubek, MD: Pennsylvania Diagnostic Breast Cancer Center and https://www.breastcancer.org/. Dr. Kristen Capece, PharmD, BCGP: Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind. Dr. Jill Lykon, PharmD, BCOP: University of Miami Hospital. Agenda: 12:00 - Welcome. 12:05 - Dr. Kim Kubek: Breast Cancer Overview and How to Self-Exam. 12:50 - American Cancer Society: Accessible Cancer Resources. 1:00 - Dr. Kristen Capece: Cancer Medications. 1:15 - Dr. Jill Lykon: Impact of Chemotherapy on Medication and Diabetes. This webinar will have captioning and a live ASL interpreter. Eligible attendees can receive CE credit for participating. If you are unable to attend, still be sure to register to receive access to the webinar audio and video after the event, as well as an audio description of a breast self-exam for women who are blind or have low vision:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_caNB11QmS4a4KjJyBnZWwQ
8) Virtual Assistive Technology Expo | School of Medicine Columbia | University of South Carolina
March 1st 2022 | 5:30AM PT, 6:30AM MT, 7:30AM CT, 8:30AM ET, 1:30 PM GMT | Join us March 1, 2022 for a full day of fast-paced sessions showcasing the latest assistive technology for people with a wide range of disabilities. This year's expo will be presented virtually and two $50 gift cards will be given away after each session so register today:
https://www.sc.edu/study/colleges_schools/medicine/centers_and_institutes_new/center_for_disability_resources/assistive_technology/expo/index.php
9) Accommodation Solutions for Executive Functioning Deficits | AskJan
March 10 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | Executive functions are high-level mental processes or abilities that influence and direct more basic abilities like attention and memory. Join JAN Cognitive/Neurological Team consultants Melanie Whetzel and Alexis Popa for a discussion about accommodation solutions that address limitations affecting attention, time management, memory, hyperactivity/impulsivity, and getting to work on time. This training will be a live question and answer session but will include JAN accommodation examples to prompt thinking about the topics and generate questions about the difficulties you or your employees are experiencing on the job that involve attention, meeting deadlines, productivity standards, and more:
https://askjan.org/events/index.cfm?calview=eventdetails&dtid=8915ADD3-BF08-73CC-570AFACA27FE7DCE
10) Screen Reader User Tester Training Program | Carroll Center for the Blind | Become a Screen Reader User Tester and Launch Your Career in Digital Accessibility
March 14th 2022 | Want to break into the field of digital accessibility as a screen reader user tester? A new session of the Carroll Center for the Blind's popular 7-week, face-to-face Screen Reader User Tester Training program starts on March 14, 2022. Come learn and grow your ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers during this intensive training program. If you're interested in gaining the foundation to develop a solid career path in the digital accessibility field while making a difference as a screen reader user tester, reach out today. Spots are filling up fast! To learn more, visit the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program page at: https://carroll.org/screen-reader-user-tester-training-program/. To apply, please reach out to the admissions team at the Carroll Center by emailing admissions@carroll.org 📧️ or by calling (617) 969-6200 📱️, extension 216.
11) 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/
12) Section 508 Questions and Answers | U.S. Access Board
March 29th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Technical questions can arise in applying the Section 508 Standards to the various types of information and communication technologies (ICT) that they cover in the federal sector. In this webinar, Section 508 Specialists at the U.S. Access Board and the General Services Administration (GSA) will provide answers to common questions about the 508 Standards. They will address use of the 508 Standards in ICT acquisitions, validating conformance with the standards, available Section 508 tools and resources, the 2021 revision of the Federal Acquisition Regulation, development of an ICT Testing Baseline portfolio, and other topics. This session is intended for entry-level to intermediate audiences, but all are welcome to join. This webinar will include video remote interpreting (VRI) and real-time captioning. Questions can be submitted in advance of the session or can be posed during the live webinar. Continuing Education Recognition Available:
https://www.access-board.gov/webinars/2022/03/29/section-508-questions-and-answers/
13) 2022 Access | The Age of Digital Inclusion | 3Play Media
March 29th 2022 through April 1st 2022 | #ACCESS2022 | We can't wait to see you virtually! What accessibility accommodations will you provide?
We will offer live professional captioning for all sessions in-person and online. Additional accommodations can be requested while ordering your ticket, or by emailing us at events@3playmedia.com 📧️. Please let us know by March 1, 2022. Will sessions be recorded? Yes! All sessions will be recorded and available for replay. You will be notified by email when the recordings are ready. Is the event free? Yes! The event is free. Our mission is to provide a space where professionals can connect with one another. We want to ensure that everyone who wants to learn about accessibility has access. Who is 3Play Media? We are a video accessibility company providing services in closed captioning, audio description, translation, transcription, and live captioning. Agenda, speakers and registration here:
https://www.3playmedia.com/access/
14) 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
15) 13th Annual CUNY Accessibility Conference
April 11th, 12th, 13th and 14th 2022 | Four Day Virtual Event. The State of Accessibility: Are We Living Up to the Promise of Compliance and the Law? Each year, the CUNY Accessibility Conference brings together hundreds of participants from the New York City region and across North America to discuss accessibility, disability services and disability activism in the context of postsecondary education. Two years after the start of an unprecedented pandemic and resultant transitions nationwide, we are returning to our foundation. The conference theme for 2022 is The State of Accessibility: Are we living up to the promise of compliance and the law? With this theme we hope to reflect topics such as on meeting the promise, falling short, advancements the law did not anticipate, and moving beyond a legal framework of accessibility. Submit your Proposal. Proposals are due by February 21st. Presentations will be 60 minutes long along with an extra 15 minutes for questions and answers (total 75 minutes). You will be notified by the committee regarding the acceptance of your proposal by March 8th. For questions, please email Tania Kalaitzidis at akalaitzidis@qcc.cuny.edu 📧️. Please fill out our Call for Proposals form at:
https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=s_BgbwZfCU6XFZiduozH2I_mhufqVMhKkF6nbAPJwLhUNUE3RTEwMDg3TkVMM1lPTUhCNVRKUjhFVyQlQCN0PWcu
16) American Foundation for the Blind Leadership Conference (AFBLC)
May 2nd 2022 through May3rd 2022 | Hyatt Regency Arlington, Virgina. Join us for the American Foundation for the Blind's Leadership Conference (AFBLC), which will take place at the Hyatt Regency, Arlington, Virginia this year. We aim to create a world of no limits for people who are blind. We are committed to putting inclusion to work, which will be a major emphasis of our 2022 AFBLC. AFBLC provides a forum in which leaders from a variety of fields-including research, technology, education, corporations, health and government organizations-have the opportunity to expand their knowledge of best practices, refine leadership skills, identify inclusion practices that work, and share concerns and strategies. The Migel Medal, the highest honor in the blindness field, as well as the Corinne Kirchner Research Award and the newly established Llura Gund Leadership Award will be presented at the AFB Leadership Conference. We look forward to gathering with you to explore the conference themes of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility:
https://www.afb.org/about-afb/events-and-awards/afblc2022?sourceid=&ms=N422JAN2EM3LC&emci=613b769b-b58e-ec11-a507-281878b83d8a&emdi=e828bc7c-418f-ec11-a507-281878b83d8a&ceid=8505425
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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: Carroll Center for the Blind
➜ New Spring Session of Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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
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
➜ VisionAware Resources: The Reader's Digest Getting Started Guide to Vision Loss
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
➜ 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/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
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)
➜ Start Your Coding Journey Today with APH's Road to Code!
Want to learn more about coding but don't know where to start? Look no further! APH's Road to Code provides a roadmap for coding progression through all our fun and engaging coding products.
https://bit.ly/3HueRfI
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: Cables!
I hate cables; cheap ones that come w/things you buy, or that break or just stop working. We found a steel core rope braided 5 and 10 foot length with lightning, usbc, and microusb, each with a 15 inch extension held on by a brass collar. Charge and transfer for 3 devices at once. 300 sold, only 5 replaced for free as we will do for 180 days. $25 for 10ft; $18 for 5ft. iPhone splitter w/lightning and 3.5mm adapters or w/2 lightning adapters to charge while listening, $25. And now, lightning to 3.5mm. stereo cable to record from your iphone to a Stream or Trek; $45 w/tutorial. Call Barry at (617) 969-7500 📱️ | bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️ or Kae at (781) 286-1696 📱️ | guidelightdogs@gmail.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
➜ 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
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
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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
The DannyBoy Portable Stand holds your Smart Phone stationary so it's camera can view items and documents clearly providing stability for excellent recognition & clarity. Take perfect pictures and scan images. Read documents quickly and easily. Great for anyone with motor disabilities, too! Made with the Blind In Mind! Lightweight & Portable. Ready To Use or Collapses In Seconds. Read All About the DannyBoy Portable Stand at DannyBoy.com in BlindMiceMegaMall.com at:
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.
Your Name Here
0 of 12 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 0 of 12 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, February 10, 2022 - Volume 845
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.
Subscribers: 7,042 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email.
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.) RealThing AI Launches Latest Smartphone for the Visually Impaired with the RNIB and O2 (5.6% of all clicks.)
https://pressreleases.responsesource.com/news/102339/realthing-ai-launches-latest-smartphone-for-the-visually-impaired-with/
B.) How Some Features In Apple's AirPods Max Are A Huge Game Changer And Seamlessly Fit Into The Workflows Of Voiceover Users (5.1% of all clicks.)
https://accessibility-insights.com/2022/01/26/how-some-features-in-apples-airpods-max-are-a-huge-game-changer-and-seamlessly-fit-into-the-workflows-of-voiceover-users/
C.) Microsoft's PowerToys Adds A Tool To Help People With Visual Impairments (4.8% of all clicks.)
https://www.windowscentral.com/microsofts-powertoys-adds-tool-help-people-visual-impairments
D.) Label Maker With A Braille Input Allows Visually-Impaired To Print Tactile Touch-Friendly Labels (3.9% of all clicks.)
https://www.yankodesign.com/2022/01/27/label-maker-with-a-braille-input-allows-visually-impaired-to-print-tactile-touch-friendly-labels/
E.) Google Assistant Just Got A Big Upgrade That Makes It Easier To Talk To (3.6% of all clicks.)
https://www.tomsguide.com/news/google-assistant-just-got-a-big-upgrade-that-makes-it-easier-to-talk-to
2) Blind Android Users Podcast And Top Tech Tidbits Announce Their Partnership to Provide Current Assistive Technology News and Trends to Their Joint Readership
On behalf of all of us here at Tidbits we are very excited to announce that the team over at Blind Android Users Podcast has joined Top Tech Tidbits as a distribution partner. Top Tech Tidbits Partners are those persons, businesses and / or organizations that exchange their time, expertise and reach in order to grow the readership of the Top Tech Tidbits Publication. Top Tech Tidbits, in turn, provides its time, expertise and reach in growing Partner readerships. Top Tech Tidbits considers partnerships from those entities that have a proven history of providing current news and trends to the blind, low vision, deaf, deafblind and disabled communities. Learn more and check out the new BAU Partner bio at:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/partners.html
3) JAWS Power Tip: Desktop vs Laptop Keyboard Setting
What is the real difference between the keyboard layouts Desktop and Laptop? And why might I consider using Laptop Layout, even though I like to use a full keyboard plugged into the laptop most of the time?
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/57.html
4) The Settings App in Windows 11 with JAWS | Lesson 9 | dSurf
In this lesson you learn about the Settings app in Windows 11 and its new design. Learn about different control types such as lists, radio buttons, time picker buttons, slider controls, breadcrumb buttons, expanded vs. collapsed states, and more. A brief discussion of the new Accessibility settings is also included:
https://dsurf.net/settings-app-in-windows-11/
5) How To Use A Smart Plug As An "On-Call" Button
Here is an article by Kevin Tofel on how he was able to use smart-plugs to create a simple on-call button as a caregiver. It can be set up inexpensively and is a good accessibility solution. As an aside, the accompanying app for the smart switches he uses is accessible to Voiceover users on iOS:
https://staceyoniot.com/how-to-use-a-smart-plug-as-an-on-call-button/
6) Designing Accessible Services
The U.K. Home Office Digital, Data and Technology service created a set of accessibility posters covering general guidance on how to design more accessible services. The posters lay out best design practices:
https://ukhomeoffice.github.io/accessibility-posters/
7) Windows 11 Update Brings Two New Natural Voices: 'Jenny' And 'Aria'
Microsoft continues to focus on accessibility in new Windows 11 features and has now introduced two new more natural-sounding voices called Jenny and Aria. The new voices are part of Microsoft's accessibility features for Windows 11's built-in Narrator screen-reading app that can be used to read out text from websites, email, and documents. Users can install the new modern Narrator voices via a dialog that offers "Add natural voices". Users can install both voices but must install them separately:
https://www.zdnet.com/article/windows-11-update-brings-two-new-natural-voices-jenny-and-aria/
8) Office Accessibility | Changing the Send/Receive Interval in Outlook (All modern versions, and perhaps earlier ones.) | Brian Vogel
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/1653
9) Your Wordle Results Are Annoying, but Not for the Reasons You Think
For some, Wordle is one of the small comforts we've found to bring joy to our day-to-day lives during the pandemic, on par with baking bread or Animal Crossing. For others, the grids of green, yellow, and gray square emojis as players share their results on Twitter are a nuisance interrupting their feed. They find these bright and colorful posts annoying reminders of a game they find uninteresting, too popular, or encouraging self-absorption. But for others, these posts go beyond annoying — they're inaccessible:
https://slate.com/culture/2022/02/wordle-word-game-results-accessibility-twitter.html
10) Office Accessibility | The Ribbon Interface, Accessibility, and You, the Screen Reader User | Brian Vogel
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/1655
11) Office Accessibility | Creating an Outlook Rule to Ignore a Specific User in a Groups.io Group | Brian Vogel
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/1672
12) Why A Stella Light Is The Only Light You Really Need
This product release comes to us from AdaptiVision and claims to be an essential element for shaping an inclusive learning environment for students with low vision, as task lighting becomes even more critical in order to maximize remaining sight:
https://lowvisionsource.com/stella-light-only/
13) How Can A First Person Point Of View Driving Game Be Accessible? | YouTube - Double Tap TV - February 8th 2022
Microsoft's latest gaming release, Forza Horizon 5, has won awards for its accessibility — yet people still ask the question "How can a first person point of view driving game be accessible"? We speak to gamers and developers to find out just that:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLM5Ss_-z2cibEYnUA3Tl9pcunDhl7kRC8.
14) From Brian Hartgen: Two Leasey Features Just Added
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/1689
15) 6 Ways to Type and Enter Text on an Apple Watch
You've got lots of options for entering text on your Apple Watch, so there's always a convenient way to type on that tiny screen:
https://www.makeuseof.com/ways-to-type-enter-text-apple-watch/
16) Microsoft 365 Use The Keyboard To Work With The Ribbon | Microsoft Support
You can get to every command on the ribbon by using an access key — usually by pressing two to four keys:
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/topic/use-the-keyboard-to-work-with-the-ribbon-954cd3f7-2f77-4983-978d-c09b20e31f0e
17) App Developed By Professor To Help Visually Impaired Read Comics Expected To Launch In June
Professor Darren Defrain is in the middle of developing an app to assist visually impaired people in reading comics. Back in August, he was rewarded $100,000 from the National Endowment for Humanities. Now, five months later, the app is expected to launch in June 2022. "We're going to be doing a lot of testing between now and June," Defrain said. "We're working with two different visually impaired comic book artists, and they're going to have the first comics up on the site:"
https://thesunflower.com/60438/news/app-developed-by-professor-to-help-visually-impaired-read-comics-expected-to-launch-in-june/
18) Making Graphics for PixBlaster and PageBlaster
Tactile graphics are an important tool in the tactile literacy toolkit, and there's so much to them that it's hard to cover the topic completely in a single blog. However, anyone can learn the best practices for creating tactile graphics and even making them with PixBlaster and PageBlaster. Read on to learn about some important resources you can utilize in your quest to get better at making tactile graphics:
https://www.aph.org/making-graphics-for-pixblaster-and-pageblaster/
19) APH Access Academy YouTube Channel
APH provides a dedicated YouTube channel where you can view recordings of previously conducted Access Academy webinars. These sessions cover APH products as well as others, including JAWS:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUj6DcM1nN3ETBrf17n6IKIxSihSU-gx0
20) Braille And Technology Videos Available From The Wisconsin Center For The Blind And Visually Impaired YouTube Channel
WCBVI's YouTube Channel offers a variety of videos covering topics such as the Mantis, Chameleon, BrailleSense Polaris, UEB and others:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzI3yv6ky-awrO8XcTK11AQ/videos
21) Wordle Has A Colour-Blind Mode: Here's How To Activate It
Wordle has a functional colour-blind mode, complete with blue and orange squares. Here's how to activate it:
https://indianexpress.com/article/technology/gaming/wordle-has-a-colour-blind-mode-heres-how-to-activate-it-7754332/
22) Audiobooks, AI, and Humans — Where Do They Stand?
https://goodereader.com/blog/audiobooks/audiobooks-ai-and-humans-where-do-they-stand
23) For Those Interested in ChromeBooks: Various Resources on Learning The ChromeVox Screen Reader for Chrome OS
https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/1670
24) How to Send a Fax from an iPhone or Android Smartphone
Not all communications can happen via email or text message. Many businesses need you to fax them physical documents that contain signatures or personal information. It's rare these days for the average person to have a fax machine hooked up in their home. Luckily, you can use a simple app to send a fax from your smartphone:
https://helpdeskgeek.com/how-to/how-to-send-a-fax-from-an-iphone-or-android-smartphone/
25) Edge Android App's New Features Might Create A Few Converts
The switch from Internet Explorer to Microsoft Edge is something that the tech giant has implemented quite successfully, and it has managed to create a lot of converts that had previously been using Chrome or perhaps some other type of web browser. While the desktop version of the browser is the one that people tend to talk about the most, Edge also has an Android app that is about to get some pretty cool new features that might make even more people want to try it out:
https://www.digitalinformationworld.com/2022/02/edge-android-apps-new-features-might.html
26) Spoken Rx "Talking" Labels Now Available at CVS
CVS Pharmacy is now offering Spoken Rx "talking" prescription labels, developed in collaboration with the American Council of the Blind, in all its 10,000 pharmacy locations. The labels can be read by iOS and Android smart devices using the CVS Pharmacy app and work using RFID (radio-frequency identification) technology. Prescription information-including patient name, medication name and directions-is read aloud in English or Spanish. Patients with a CVS account can enroll in Spoken Rx over the phone by calling their local pharmacy, or by visiting their local CVS where a pharmacist can check if the patient is set up for the service. For more information call (888) 287-5654 or visit:
https://www.cvs.com/content/pharmacy/spoken-rx
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Recent DOJ Settlements Show Step Up In Web Accessibility Enforcement By Biden Administration
Here is a short summary of recent web accessibility settlements in The U.S. It shows an increase in enforcement:
https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/recent-doj-settlements-show-step-up-in-8723386/
2) UDL In Public Policy
Here is a quick summary on how the principles of UDL (Universal Design for Learning), have made their way into public policy in The U.S.
https://www.cast.org/impact/udl-public-policy
3) Here's How We Can Provide Better Eye Care For The World
Here is an article describing the need for more, and better trained, eye care professionals:
https://europeansting.com/2022/01/31/heres-how-we-can-provide-better-eye-care-for-the-world/
4) What Rapid Covid Tests Reveal About The Glaring Design Flaws In Healthcare
For low-sighted people, Covid-19 tests are virtually impossible to use. But there are design innovations that could change that in the future:
https://www.fastcompany.com/90719361/covid-tests-may-be-more-available-but-theyre-far-from-accessible
5) Press Release: 3Play Media Reinvents Live Captioning with the First Solution to Provide Professional Live Captioning and Auto Captioning Failover
3Play Media has announced the availability of Live Professional Captioning, becoming the first captioning platform to offer professional captioning by a human with auto captioning failover. The new platform is the first major technology innovation in the live captioning market in years and revitalizes the industry, which has historically been reliant on expensive and manual, outdated processes:
https://www.3playmedia.com/blog/press-release-3play-media-reinvents-live-captioning/
6) Hadley Launches "Braille for Everyday Use"
New interactive Workshop makes learning braille easy and practical:
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hadley-launches-braille-for-everyday-use-301476294.html
7) Braille's Place in the Age of Technology
A quick assumption would be that the utilization of braille has decreased in recent years, either due to advancements in technology or the rise of the audiobook industry. However, braille has since evolved from solely embossed paper to its incorporation in accessible technology:
https://www.newuniversity.org/2022/02/06/brailles-place-in-the-age-of-technology/
8) Josh Miele: Amazon's Resident MacArthur Fellow
Miele has merged a lifelong passion for science with a mission to make the world more accessible for people with disabilities:
https://www-amazon-science.cdn.ampproject.org/c/s/www.amazon.science/working-at-amazon/josh-miele-amazons-resident-macarthur-fellow?_amp=true
9) Q&A With Lori Samuels, Senior Director of Accessibility, NBC Universal
Lori Samuels is the Senior Director of Accessibility at NBCUniversal. She leads strategic accessibility programs to institute best practices in inclusive design, provide training for software development teams, drive cultural maturity in disability inclusion, and fortify executive sponsorship:
https://equalentry.com/accessibility-activist-lori-samuels/
10) Digital (In)Accessibility Down Under: Why Australia Lags Behind New Zealand
New research from Infosys has revealed that Australia is behind New Zealand when it comes to ensuring all digital properties are accessible, such as enabling accessible mobile banking, digital citizen services or online learning experiences:
https://e-commercenews.co.nz/story/digital-in-accessibility-down-under-why-australia-lags-behind-new-zealand
11) KNFB Reader Becomes OneStep Reader
KNFB Reader has transitioned to Sensotec and has been renamed OneStep Reader. Formerly known as the KNFB Reader, the OneStep Reader uses a technology known as optical character recognition (OCR) that was developed in the early 2000s through the work of the National Federation of the Blind and Raymond Kurzweil, a pioneering inventor. With guidance of what blind people truly need based on lived experiences, the technology allowed for the ground-breaking software that evolved to a premier experience for accessing printed text on iOS, Windows, and Android devices. After years of collaboration among NFB, Dr. Kurzweil, and Sensotec, the continued development of the product KNFB Reader (from now onwards branded as OneStep Reader) was transitioned to Sensotec beginning 2022:
https://sensotec.be/en/knfb-reader-becomes-onestep-reader/
12) Visually Impaired Woman Scammed Out Of $5,000, Wants To Warn Others
Ashlee Wycoff, a visually impaired northern Michigan woman, said she was scammed out of thousands of dollars. In January, she sat down at her computer to apply for remote jobs on LinkedIn. A few days later, she received a job offer from a national packaging company:
https://upnorthlive.com/news/local/visually-impaired-woman-scammed-out-of-5000-wants-to-warn-others
13) P&G Website Not Accessible To Blind Individuals, Class Action Claims
Plaintiff Robert Weekes, a legally-blind individual, filed a class action lawsuit alleging P&G's website is not fully accessible to blind and visually-impaired individuals:
https://topclassactions.com/lawsuit-settlements/lawsuit-news/procter-gamble-class-action-lawsuit-and-settlement-news/pg-website-not-accessible-to-blind-individuals-class-action-claims/
14) FTC Comment to Food and Drug Administration Supports Agency's Proposed Rule on Establishing Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids
The Federal Trade Commission staff has submitted a comment to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in response to FDA's request for comment on its proposed rule on establishing over-the-counter hearing aids. The comment supports the proposed rule, which is likely to promote competition and innovation in the market for hearing aids, to the benefit of health care consumers:
https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/press-releases/2022/01/ftc-comment-food-drug-administration-supports-agencys-proposed
15) National Public Library In Saint Vincent Launches Audiobook Service For The Visually Disabled
The National Public Library in the Caribbean island country of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines announced they have started an audiobook service that will apply to the print disabled. Therefore, those who are visually impaired or have another disability that does not allow them to hold or read a physical book qualify for the audiobook service:
https://goodereader.com/blog/audiobooks/national-public-library-in-saint-vincent-launches-audiobook-service-for-the-visually-disabled
16) US Student Invents Braille System For Visually Impaired Uyghurs
The development comes as a time when China is trying to eradicate use of the language within its borders:
https://www.rfa.org/english/news/uyghur/braille-script-02042022174602.html
17) Spanish Pioneers of Bionic Vision Technology to Fight Blindness
A revolution in ophthalmology is taking place in Spain. There are several teams working in parallel in this area, including Miguel Hernández University (Elche), the Instituto de microcirugia ocular (IMO) and the Barraquer Ophthalmology Centre. The advance of technologies has led to the development of new visionary aids in Spain at Miguel Hernández University, such as digital glasses that can help patients to make the most of their vision with optics that magnify, control glare or enhance contrast:
https://www.einnews.com/pr_news/562536059/spanish-pioneers-of-bionic-vision-technology-to-fight-blindness
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Braille for Everyday Use | Hadley Presents: A Conversation with the Experts
February 4th 2022 | We sat down with Kim Walker, co-director of research and development at Hadley, and Mark Andrews, one of the Hadley advisors who reviewed our exciting new approach for adults with vision loss to learn braille. From labeling items in your home to identifying buttons on an elevator, braille can be a wonderful tool for everyday use:
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/braille-everyday-use
2) NRTC on Blindness and Low Vision | Employment Insights Podcast Episode 3
February 4th 2022 | For people who are blind or have low vision, finding and maintaining employment is often a challenge. In this episode, Judy Matthews joins us to talk about how her work experience and the skills she has learned led her to the career she has today:
https://www.ntac.blind.msstate.edu/consumers/webinars-podcasts
3) Blind Android Users 61 | Managing Networks, Wi-Fi, and SIM Cards
February 5th 2022 | This week we start by announcing partnership between Top Tech Tidbits and Blind Android Users Podcast. We then demo how to manage your Wi-Fi networks and sim cards on android and talk on some additional features found on dual sim phones. We then demo a voice recorder app from J Labs in our app of the week segment. We then do talkback highlights in which the up and right gesture to go to home screen is shone. You can listen to our podcast on all smart speakers, popular podcast playing apps and Youtube.To listen to the podcast on our website, please visit:
https://blindandroidusers.com/category/bauposts/shownotes/
4) Eyes on Success 2206 Optic Low Vision Swimming Aid
February 9th 2022 | Competitive blind swimmers currently rely on sighted assistants to signal them before making their turn for the next lap. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Mirthe Hofstede who, for a student project, developed a system that obviates the need for an assistant while at the same time provides better feedback to the blind swimmer:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202206.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) A Deep Dive into Patent-Pending Features of the New RUBY 10 | Freedom Scientific
February 10th 2022 | 12PM ET AND 3PM ET | Objectives: 1. Learn how to take glare management to the next level. 2. Discover the benefits of colorblindness filters. 3. Learn what Haptic feedback is and how can it help. Presenters: Mike Wood and Michelle Williams. Summary: Join us on Thursday, February 10, 2022, at noon or 3 PM Eastern Time, as we take a more in-depth look at the RUBY 10's patent-pending features that help with contrast sensitivity and color blindness. After a quick refresher, we will get into the new features that allow you to customize this portable product. Watch and listen as we share everyday examples of how these new features can improve the lives of those who experience colorblindness and those who need greater control over contrast. We will answer questions such as, what happens when the trainer leaves? Learn what tips and tricks will help you use the RUBY 10 and its great new features. Please note: This webinar will be held at noon Eastern Time and repeat again at 3 PM Eastern Time. Please register once to attend either session. Product Giveaway: We will conduct a drawing for two lucky winners to receive a RUBY HD handheld video magnifier-one at each webinar session. ACVREP credits will be available for those who attend the live webinar. Register for A Deep Dive into Patent-Pending Features of the New RUBY 10:
https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Ysh8hL6fTmqRf-IcEhXIpQ
2) 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
3) Exploring Core Applications On The Braillesense 6 And Braillesense Polaris | Sight And Sound Technology
February 10th 2022 | 21PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 8PM GMT | We're delighted to announce a new series of BrailleSense training sessions.
Our last series was extremely popular and, based on feedback received, we are focusing this time on some of the core applications on the BrailleSense 6 and Polaris devices. We'll be exploring, over four weeks, the power of the BrailleSense's word processor, file manager, email application and DAISY player. Each session will run for one hour, commencing at 8:00 pm GMT on Thursday February 3rd, and running each week until February 24th. The complete schedule is below. Thursday 3rd February: Introducing the BrailleSense file manager. Thursday 10th February: Exploring BrailleSense email. Thursday 17th February: All you wanted to know about the BrailleSense word processor. Thursday 24th February: Introducing the BrailleSense DAISY player. Whether you use a BrailleSense 6 or a BrailleSense Polaris, these sessions will hopefully be of use:
https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJEkd--vrj0sE9zMK6rgyDMQMbE3fYuYf8DH
4) Jaw Muscles: A Guide to Increased Productivity Using JAWS for Windows | Hartgen Consultancy
February 14th 2022 | While many people can use computing applications with the keyboard at a basic level, we want to kick your screen-reading skills into shape. We'll show you plenty of strategies you probably didn't know about. Once you've completed our new training course, you will be able to show everyone your screen-reading muscles! Course Delivery: Jaw Muscles will commence week beginning Monday 14 February 2022 and weekly thereafter. The cost of the course is £50 which is currently 68 US dollars. Purchase JAW Muscles Online. While it is by no means a requirement for course participation, we are offering an additional package if you do not have our Leasey product. One of the main advantages of Leasey is to add even more productivity tools to those already available within JAWS and this year, we intend to add even more of these. JAW Muscles with Leasey is available at a substantially reduced rate for a combined total of £80 which is approximately $108 US. Purchase Jaw Muscles With Leasey Online. Alternatively, anyone can purchase either package by sending an email to jaws@hartgen.org 📧️, whereupon a fully accessible electronic invoice will be sent to you which can be paid through PayPal or any major credit or debit card.
5) Working with Tables & JAWS | Access Ingenuity
February 16th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Many screen reader users face challenges with navigating tables. However, some specific methods and commands make navigating tables much simpler. Join Zhi Huang, Marisa Church, and Rachel Reeves from Access Ingenuity to explore working with tables using the JAWS screen reader. Learning Outcomes: Introduce the different ways to read and edit tables in Microsoft Word. Discover how to navigate tables in HTML, such as on a web browser or reading a PDF with Adobe Reader. Explore the JAWS quick settings to customize the way JAWS behaves with tables. Meeting ID: 839 1156 9156 | Passcode: 811726 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83911569156#,,,,*811726# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83911569156?pwd=RVJYV0JJVFB3Q3FGM1RVT0k2a0gyZz09
6) Accessible Cooking Appliances | Florida Outreach Center For The Blind
February 17th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM ET GMT | Have you ever wondered how popular countertop home cooking appliances can operate hands free by just giving simple voice commands using an Amazon Echo for a Google home product? Think how these devices can be used to set the time, temperature, and cooking mode without touching a single button. Come join chef Jason Goldfield and his assistants along with The Florida Outreach Center for The Blind for our next workshop to learn how you can operate an air fryer, pressure cooker, and a microwave to cook simple and fabulous meals with ease. The workshop will be held Thursday, February 17th from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. (eastern) via the Zoom platform. A $25.00 door prize will be given out at the end of the presentation. To join the Zoom discussion, call (312) 626-6799 using Meeting Code 5616420005. Meeting ID: 561 642 0005. If joining us via Zoom us the Meeting Link is below:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5616420005
7) Prep and Proof Word Documents Using Track Changes and Comments with JAWS | Freedom Scientific
February 17th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Track Changes is a feature in Microsoft Word that allows you to view changes made to a document by you or other users. Comments in a Word document provide information from reviewers or collaborators without altering the document's text. This feature is great for asking questions or making suggestions. Join us on Thursday, February 17, 2022, at noon Eastern Time as we describe and demonstrate how to use the Track Changes and Comments features in Word. We'll show you how to: Turn on and navigate Track Changes. Accept or reject changes. Keep Track Changes turned on. Add and read comments. Reply to comments. Register:
https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_yu1HjdDGSjO06bQ-lGxM9w
8) Exploring Core Applications On The Braillesense 6 And Braillesense Polaris | Sight And Sound Technology
February 17th 2022 | 21PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 8PM GMT | We're delighted to announce a new series of BrailleSense training sessions.
Our last series was extremely popular and, based on feedback received, we are focusing this time on some of the core applications on the BrailleSense 6 and Polaris devices. We'll be exploring, over four weeks, the power of the BrailleSense's word processor, file manager, email application and DAISY player. Each session will run for one hour, commencing at 8:00 pm GMT on Thursday February 3rd, and running each week until February 24th. The complete schedule is below. Thursday 3rd February: Introducing the BrailleSense file manager. Thursday 10th February: Exploring BrailleSense email. Thursday 17th February: All you wanted to know about the BrailleSense word processor. Thursday 24th February: Introducing the BrailleSense DAISY player. Whether you use a BrailleSense 6 or a BrailleSense Polaris, these sessions will hopefully be of use:
https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJEkd--vrj0sE9zMK6rgyDMQMbE3fYuYf8DH
9) What Are Focus Braille Displays and the ElBraille Notetaker? (ACVREP CE Approved) | Access Ingenuity
February 23rd 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | The Focus Braille displays have been around for quite a long time. However, many may not know about the fifth-generation features. In addition, the 40-cell version can work in conjunction with the ElBraille Notetaker. Join Ian Ramos, Marisa Church, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity and Joe McDaniel from Vispero to learn about the Focus Braille displays and ElBraille Notetaker running on Windows to help determine if one or both these products would be beneficial to you. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: Discuss the Focus Braille displays, the new features, and the differences of the fifth-generation products. Introduce the ElBraille Notetaker that runs on Windows 10 and 11, coupled with the Focus fifth-generation Braille display. Discuss the features of the Focus Braille display and ElBraille Notetaker and provide scenarios where it is ideal to have only a Focus Braille display or both. Provide demonstrations and orientations of both the Focus and the ElBraille. Meeting ID: 845 9035 5826 | Passcode: 951549 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,84590355826#,,,,*951549# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84590355826?pwd=YXRvQjNRZ0JDYWtUamFNTUV3Y3J1Zz09
10) Taking Your Accessibility Statement To The Next Level
February 24th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | The accessibility statement is a familiar public expression of an organization's commitment to digital accessibility. In the European Union, legislation mandates public organizations provide a web accessibility statement in a particular format. Elsewhere, accessibility statements are often limited to a generic and vague expression of a future ideal, or present overly detailed technical information (which can quickly becomes dated and inaccurate). But they can be so much more. Join David Sloan, head of UX at TPGi and a 20-year accessibility veteran, in an exploration on how your organization can take advantage of the many opportunities an effective accessibility statement or microsite can bring to your accessibility efforts. For example, you can use it to: Describe accessibility features you provide. Effectively report on your progress and plans. Provide a trusted communication channel for people with disabilities. We'll also look at strategies for managing your accessibility statement content as it evolves over time. Don't pass up this exciting chance to learn how you can take advantage of an accessibility statement's possibilities. If you are using Internet Explorer and have cookies disabled (either via privacy mode or decline cookies on the website), you may not be able to register through this form. If you are still unable to register, please email ida@tpgi.com 📧️ with your name and contact information. Ida will arrange the registration on your behalf:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-february-24-at-12pm-et-taking-your-accessibility-statement-to-the-next-level/
11) Exploring Core Applications On The Braillesense 6 And Braillesense Polaris | Sight And Sound Technology
February 24th 2022 | 21PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 8PM GMT | We're delighted to announce a new series of BrailleSense training sessions.
Our last series was extremely popular and, based on feedback received, we are focusing this time on some of the core applications on the BrailleSense 6 and Polaris devices. We'll be exploring, over four weeks, the power of the BrailleSense's word processor, file manager, email application and DAISY player. Each session will run for one hour, commencing at 8:00 pm GMT on Thursday February 3rd, and running each week until February 24th. The complete schedule is below. Thursday 3rd February: Introducing the BrailleSense file manager. Thursday 10th February: Exploring BrailleSense email. Thursday 17th February: All you wanted to know about the BrailleSense word processor. Thursday 24th February: Introducing the BrailleSense DAISY player. Whether you use a BrailleSense 6 or a BrailleSense Polaris, these sessions will hopefully be of use:
https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJEkd--vrj0sE9zMK6rgyDMQMbE3fYuYf8DH
12) Breast Cancer Webinar for Women Who Are Blind | Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind
February 25th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | On February 25, 2022, please join Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind as we discuss accessible breast cancer information, detection and prevention for blind women and their families with these expert presenters: Dr. Kim Kubek, MD: Pennsylvania Diagnostic Breast Cancer Center and https://www.breastcancer.org/. Dr. Kristen Capece, PharmD, BCGP: Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind. Dr. Jill Lykon, PharmD, BCOP: University of Miami Hospital. Agenda: 12:00 - Welcome. 12:05 - Dr. Kim Kubek: Breast Cancer Overview and How to Self-Exam. 12:50 - American Cancer Society: Accessible Cancer Resources. 1:00 - Dr. Kristen Capece: Cancer Medications. 1:15 - Dr. Jill Lykon: Impact of Chemotherapy on Medication and Diabetes. This webinar will have captioning and a live ASL interpreter. Eligible attendees can receive CE credit for participating. If you are unable to attend, still be sure to register to receive access to the webinar audio and video after the event, as well as an audio description of a breast self-exam for women who are blind or have low vision:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_caNB11QmS4a4KjJyBnZWwQ
13) Virtual Assistive Technology Expo | School of Medicine Columbia | University of South Carolina
March 1st 2022 | 5:30AM PT, 6:30AM MT, 7:30AM CT, 8:30AM ET, 1:30 PM GMT | Join us March 1, 2022 for a full day of fast-paced sessions showcasing the latest assistive technology for people with a wide range of disabilities. This year's expo will be presented virtually and two $50 gift cards will be given away after each session so register today:
https://www.sc.edu/study/colleges_schools/medicine/centers_and_institutes_new/center_for_disability_resources/assistive_technology/expo/index.php
14) Accommodation Solutions for Executive Functioning Deficits | AskJan
March 10 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | Executive functions are high-level mental processes or abilities that influence and direct more basic abilities like attention and memory. Join JAN Cognitive/Neurological Team consultants Melanie Whetzel and Alexis Popa for a discussion about accommodation solutions that address limitations affecting attention, time management, memory, hyperactivity/impulsivity, and getting to work on time. This training will be a live question and answer session but will include JAN accommodation examples to prompt thinking about the topics and generate questions about the difficulties you or your employees are experiencing on the job that involve attention, meeting deadlines, productivity standards, and more:
https://askjan.org/events/index.cfm?calview=eventdetails&dtid=8915ADD3-BF08-73CC-570AFACA27FE7DCE
15) Screen Reader User Tester Training Program | Carroll Center for the Blind | Become a Screen Reader User Tester and Launch Your Career in Digital Accessibility
March 14th 2022 | Want to break into the field of digital accessibility as a screen reader user tester? A new session of the Carroll Center for the Blind's popular 7-week, face-to-face Screen Reader User Tester Training program starts on March 14, 2022. Come learn and grow your ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers during this intensive training program. If you're interested in gaining the foundation to develop a solid career path in the digital accessibility field while making a difference as a screen reader user tester, reach out today. Spots are filling up fast! To learn more, visit the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program page at: https://carroll.org/screen-reader-user-tester-training-program/. To apply, please reach out to the admissions team at the Carroll Center by emailing admissions@carroll.org 📧️ or by calling (617) 969-6200 📱️, extension 216.
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/
17) Section 508 Questions and Answers | U.S. Access Board
March 29th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Technical questions can arise in applying the Section 508 Standards to the various types of information and communication technologies (ICT) that they cover in the federal sector. In this webinar, Section 508 Specialists at the U.S. Access Board and the General Services Administration (GSA) will provide answers to common questions about the 508 Standards. They will address use of the 508 Standards in ICT acquisitions, validating conformance with the standards, available Section 508 tools and resources, the 2021 revision of the Federal Acquisition Regulation, development of an ICT Testing Baseline portfolio, and other topics. This session is intended for entry-level to intermediate audiences, but all are welcome to join. This webinar will include video remote interpreting (VRI) and real-time captioning. Questions can be submitted in advance of the session or can be posed during the live webinar. Continuing Education Recognition Available:
https://www.access-board.gov/webinars/2022/03/29/section-508-questions-and-answers/
18) 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
19) 13th Annual CUNY Accessibility Conference
April 11th, 12th, 13th and 14th 2022 | Four Day Virtual Event. The State of Accessibility: Are We Living Up to the Promise of Compliance and the Law? Each year, the CUNY Accessibility Conference brings together hundreds of participants from the New York City region and across North America to discuss accessibility, disability services and disability activism in the context of postsecondary education. Two years after the start of an unprecedented pandemic and resultant transitions nationwide, we are returning to our foundation. The conference theme for 2022 is The State of Accessibility: Are we living up to the promise of compliance and the law? With this theme we hope to reflect topics such as on meeting the promise, falling short, advancements the law did not anticipate, and moving beyond a legal framework of accessibility. Submit your Proposal. Proposals are due by February 21st. Presentations will be 60 minutes long along with an extra 15 minutes for questions and answers (total 75 minutes). You will be notified by the committee regarding the acceptance of your proposal by March 8th. For questions, please email Tania Kalaitzidis at akalaitzidis@qcc.cuny.edu 📧️. Please fill out our Call for Proposals form at:
https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=s_BgbwZfCU6XFZiduozH2I_mhufqVMhKkF6nbAPJwLhUNUE3RTEwMDg3TkVMM1lPTUhCNVRKUjhFVyQlQCN0PWcu
➜ Directories
1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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: Pneuma Solutions
➜ Give the Gift of Equal Access!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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
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
➜ VisionAware Resources: The Reader's Digest Getting Started Guide to Vision Loss
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
➜ 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/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
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)
➜ Start Your Coding Journey Today with APH's Road to Code!
Want to learn more about coding but don't know where to start? Look no further! APH's Road to Code provides a roadmap for coding progression through all our fun and engaging coding products.
https://bit.ly/3HueRfI
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 You in 2022!
(1) New protective hands-free leather pouch for larger phones Pro and Pro Max and Android) 5 by 8 inches; 4 compartments; $30. (2) New single-ear headphone design with easy to locate buttons and all day comfort: $45. (3) Talking Medical Bundle Sale - (infrared thermometer, BP unit with cuff, and oximeter, ending Jan. 31: $130. (4) Many new leather bag styles for laptops, tablets, and Braille displays. Call Barry at (617) 969-7500 📱️ | bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️ or Kae at (781) 286-1696 📱️ | guidelightdogs@gmail.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
➜ 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
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
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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
The DannyBoy Portable Stand holds your Smart Phone stationary so it's camera can view items and documents clearly providing stability for excellent recognition & clarity. Take perfect pictures and scan images. Read documents quickly and easily. Great for anyone with motor disabilities, too! Made with the Blind In Mind! Lightweight & Portable. Ready To Use or Collapses In Seconds. Read All About the DannyBoy Portable Stand at DannyBoy.com in BlindMiceMegaMall.com at:
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
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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.
Your Name Here
0 of 12 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 0 of 12 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, February 3, 2022 - Volume 844
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.
Subscribers: 7,017 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement: Learn More About The Clearview GO From Optelec - A Full-Featured, Foldable, On-The-Go Video Magnifier
ClearView GO offers the same reading comfort, ease of use, and functionality as a desktop video magnifier, but in a compact, foldable design. It's the ideal solution for those who need magnification at different locations. With ClearView GO, you can comfortably read text and view objects, at home, office, classroom, or on the go. Enjoy a crisp, clear, full HD image on the 17.3" screen. The monitor can be fully adjusted in height, so you will always have the right reading angle and height. The ClearView GO has a convenient 3-in-1 rotatable camera that allows you to magnify text and objects up close, in the distance, and even to look at yourself. Simply point the camera to what you want to see and adjust the settings according to your personal preference. ClearView GO is the latest addition to the ClearView product line and the first desktop video magnifier by Optelec that is fully foldable and features a 3-in-1 rotatable camera. Watch the video on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/tCKAsLZXvTg.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) JAWS Power Tip: Creating and Editing Signatures in Microsoft Outlook with JAWS (6.2% of all clicks.)
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/53.html
B.) Windows 10 vs Windows 11: All the Major Changes (5.8% of all clicks.)
https://www.makeuseof.com/windows-10-11-major-changes/
C.) Bionic Eye Implant Helps Blind 88-Year-Old To See Again (4.1% of all clicks.)
https://www.sciencefocus.com/news/bionic-eye-implant-inserted-beneath-retina-helps-blind-88-year-old-to-see-again/
D.) 20 Cool Google Tricks to Search More Effectively (4.0% of all clicks.)
https://helpdeskgeek.com/how-to/20-cool-google-tricks-to-search-more-effectively/
E.) Stop Using Safari Immediately (at Least for Now) (3.6% of all clicks.)
https://lifehacker.com/stop-using-safari-immediately-at-least-for-now-1848384461
2) Top Tech Tidbits Readership Surpasses 7,000 Weekly Subscribers
Some thoughts from our Publisher on what made this possible (hint: you) along with some updates on future initiatives intended to grow Tidbits readership:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/55.html
3) Hey Alexa
A.) You can delete your voice interactions with Alexa by visiting Alexa Privacy Settings or by saying, "Alexa, delete what I just said" or "Alexa, delete what I said today" or "Alexa, delete everything I've ever said."
B.) If you ever wonder why Alexa responded in a certain way, you can ask and Alexa will provide a short explanation about the response to your last voice request. Just say, "Alexa, why did you do that?"
C.) Want to know what Alexa heard you say? Just ask and Alexa will read back your most recent voice request. Just say, "Alexa, tell me what you heard."
D.) In addition to visiting Alexa Privacy Settings or the Alexa app, if you've enrolled in voice ID, you can also say, "Alexa, update my privacy settings" to change your settings by voice. Just say, "Alexa, how can I manage my voice recordings?"
4) Tidbits Reader Roger Buchanan Outlines His Experience with NaviLens and NaviLensGo
Sincerest thanks to this Tidbits reader for taking the time to share with us his experiences in using the Navilens and NavilensGo Apps and QR Codes. Roger reached out to us after reading about NaviLens in last week's issue in which our Editor Stephen (Alex) Marositz requested feedback on its effectiveness. Here's what Roger had to say:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/54.html
5) RealThing AI Launches Latest Smartphone for the Visually Impaired with the RNIB and O2
RealThing Ai has announced the launch of its latest fully voice accessible smartphone: the RealSAM Pocket V4, completely designed for those with sight loss:
https://pressreleases.responsesource.com/news/102339/realthing-ai-launches-latest-smartphone-for-the-visually-impaired-with/
6) AppleVis Unlimited: What's New and Noteworthy for January 2022
https://www.applevis.com/newsletter/applevis-unlimited-whats-new-noteworthy-january-2022
7) Finally! iOS 15.4 Lets You Use Face ID With A Mask - And We Tested It | Tom's Guide
Our long nightmare of not being able to easily unlock our iPhones with Face ID when wearing a face mask is about to come to an end:
https://www.tomsguide.com/news/finally-ios-154-lets-you-use-face-id-with-a-mask-and-we-tested-it
8) Beijing 2022: NBCU To Provide Closed Captioning, Audio Description, and Web Content Accessibility for Winter Olympics, Paralympics
"For the Olympic Winter Games, all competitions aired during primetime hours and Prime Plus, along with the Opening and Closing Ceremonies, will include live audio description on the Secondary Audio Program (SAP) channel, provided by Descriptive Video Works." "Viewers can use #NBCOlympicsA11y and #NBCParalympicsA11y on social media to share with others or provide feedback on closed captioning or audio description to NBCUniversal."
https://www.sportsvideo.org/2022/02/01/nbcuniversal-to-provide-closed-captioning-audio-description-and-web-content-accessibility-for-2022-winter-olympics-and-paralympics/
9) COVID-19 At-home Test Information
In the U.S. Aira and NFB have partnered to make at home COVID-19 tests more accessible:
https://nfb.org/resources/covid-19-resources/covid-19-home-test-information
10) Create, Convert, Connect: Take Your Documents To The Next Level
Texthelp has a new service that should make collaborating with PDF documents more accessible in the education setting:
https://www.texthelp.com/products/orbitnote/
11) Windows 11 Will Be Offered To All Eligible PCs Ahead Of Schedule
Microsoft changed the rollout status of the Windows 11 operating system to broad deployment on January 26th 2022. The new status means that Windows 11 will be offered to all eligible devices ahead of schedule:
https://www.ghacks.net/2022/01/27/windows-11-will-be-offered-to-all-eligible-pcs-ahead-of-schedule/
12) Google Assistant Just Got A Big Upgrade That Makes It Easier To Talk To
If you know how to use Google Assistant, you've probably noticed by now that canceling a request or getting the assistant to shut up isn't exactly easy. It's downright inconvenient. But Google just rolled out an awesome update that makes quieting down Google Assistant less of a hassle:
https://www.tomsguide.com/news/google-assistant-just-got-a-big-upgrade-that-makes-it-easier-to-talk-to
13) Recording | Vision Australia's Exploring Technology Webinar BlindShell Classic 2 Mobile Phone from January 27th 2022 | YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gpzhNypaQpk
14) Instagram Outlines Key Updates to Improve the In-App Experience for Visually Impaired Users
Instagram has shared a new overview of how it's improving its systems for screen readers, in order to enable more people to experience the app in the same way, by focusing on the core elements of utility and action within the Instagram experience:
https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/instagram-outlines-key-updates-to-improve-the-in-app-experience-for-visuall/618130/
15) Tutorials and Other Resources for Using Reaper From a Blindness Perspective
REAPER is an accessible and affordable digital audio workstation (DAW). It can be used to compose, record, edit, mix and master pretty much any musical or audio-based thing you could name. This is the landing page for REAPER Made Easy. On this page you'll find an expanding collection of free training content, all tailored toward using REAPER with screen reader software:
http://www.theglobalvoice.info/reaper/
16) What Does a Forehand Winner Sound Like? Clink, Blip-Blip-Blip!
At the Australian Open tennis tournament, new technology is translating the movement of the ball into sounds to help blind and low-vision fans follow the action:
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/01/27/sports/tennis/australian-open-blind-fans.html
17) Label Maker With A Braille Input Allows Visually-Impaired To Print Tactile Touch-Friendly Labels
Here's a design exercise that can really help develop your skills — take a product and see if it's disability-proof. If it isn't, you've got yourself a rather nifty design brief! Take, for instance, the label maker — a pretty useful product... as long as you can see and read. To overcome this accessibility gap, the Braille Label Maker allows you to print labels in braille that the visually impaired can touch to read:
https://www.yankodesign.com/2022/01/27/label-maker-with-a-braille-input-allows-visually-impaired-to-print-tactile-touch-friendly-labels/
18) Recording | 3 Ways to Set Up an Android Phone for the Visually Impaired by Voxmate and Blind Android Users from January 21st 2022 | YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rtbN0O0Mics
19) You Can Ditch The Microsoft Teams Icon From The Taskbar To Speed Up Windows 11
You won't just save screen space, Microsoft Teams is also a RAM hog:
https://www.techradar.com/news/ditch-the-microsoft-teams-icon-from-the-taskbar-to-speed-up-windows-11
20) How Some Features In Apple's AirPods Max Are A Huge Game Changer And Seamlessly Fit Into The Workflows Of Voiceover Users
Many articles have been written about how the AirPods Max sound, good or bad, this post isn't at all about that. Sometimes there is a feature in a product that flies under most of our radars. For most of us, this feature is either never used or never thought about. For some though, it is a huge game changer the rest of us will never fully realize. People who design such features totally deserve a raise, and when these features are revealed more to those who don't benefit from them it helps us all think beyond our narrow use cases. When we all design anything outside of our own experiences, situations we as individuals may never even know about may be made easier for others:
https://accessibility-insights.com/2022/01/26/how-some-features-in-apples-airpods-max-are-a-huge-game-changer-and-seamlessly-fit-into-the-workflows-of-voiceover-users/
21) Top Ten Most Common Web Accessibility Issues | TPGi
If you are just starting your digital accessibility journey, you may feel overwhelmed with all the information on the topic. Don't worry: this article will help you understand some of the most common web accessibility issues you will encounter as you start reviewing and testing your website and applications for accessibility errors:
https://www.tpgi.com/ten-common-web-accessibility-issues/
22) How to Use the Secret Safari Browser Hidden on Your Apple Watch
Did you know your Apple Watch is hiding a built-in web browser? Here's how to find and use it:
https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-use-safari-browser-apple-watch/
23) Digitally Accessible Math Worksheets | Paths to Literacy
Many math worksheets are not accessible to people who use screen readers. The worksheets found at this link are accessible to people who use screen readers. Please note that they will be adding new worksheets on an on-going basis, so be sure to bookmark this page and check back to see what's new:
https://www.pathstoliteracy.org/resources/digitally-accessible-math-worksheets
24) Microsoft's PowerToys Adds A Tool To Help People With Visual Impairments
Microsoft's PowerToys just got even more powerful with the addition of three new tools:
https://www.windowscentral.com/microsofts-powertoys-adds-tool-help-people-visual-impairments
25) 42 Ways Google Assistant Can Make You More Efficient On Android
Google Assistant has some genuinely useful productivity tools for professionals — but it's up to you to learn how to use them:
https://www.computerworld.com/article/3255009/google-assistant-efficiency-tips-android.html#tk.rss_all
26) How To Enable (And Use) Clipboard History In Windows 11
Soon after Windows 10 was released Microsoft made a very useful upgrade to the Clipboard via a new tool called Clipboard History. Clipboard History is also included with Windows 11, but as with Windows 10 it's disabled by default. Luckily, it's very easy to enable the Clipboard History feature in Windows 11:
https://www.ricksdailytips.com/enable-clipboard-history-windows-11/
27) What's New in Leasey Version 7
Leasey Version 7 is just a few weeks away:
http://www.hartgen.org/node/572
28) Google Maps for Android Loses Voice Navigation Because We All Know Why
At first glance, Android 12 is a must-have update given the long list of improvements and new features it brings to users out there. But when it comes to the experience drivers end up struggling with, this new operating system version is a release some might want to avoid:
https://www.autoevolution.com/news/google-maps-for-android-loses-voice-navigation-because-we-all-know-why-180340.html
29) Idaho commission for the Blind Seeks Instructor for the Blind, Senior | Deadline To Apply: February 19th 2022
This position will instruct the blind in skill areas such as reading and writing Braille, travel methods, communications, home economics, and alternative daily living practices; counsel students in adjusting to blindness; perform related work further outlined here:
https://bit.ly/3IVN5sM
30) Smartsheet Recruiting For Accessibility Research
At Smartsheet we are determined to create a great user experience for those with accessibility needs. To do this, we need people to test our product and provide feedback during the design and development process in order to learn how to make them usable and intuitive. If you are interested in participating in this type of research, follow the link below to sign up. Experience using Smartsheet is not required:
http://s.alchemer.com/s3/Accessibility-Research-Recruiting
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) AccessReady Reporter Newsletter for January 27th 2022 | A Top Tech Tidbits Partner Publication
Topics this month include: Accessready.Org And Top Tech Tidbits Announce Their Partnership To Provide Current Assistive Technology News And Trends To Their Joint Readership | 2021 Year End Report - App & Web Accessibility Lawsuits Break Records | Forum Shopping For A Website Lawsuit Over The Holidays? Look No Further Than The SDNY | Five 2022 Accessibility Trends | Crystal Ball 2022: More Aggressive DOJ Enforcement, More Lawsuits, And Maybe A New Rulemaking:
http://accessreadyreporter.org/january-27-2022.html
2) I Have Met the Enemy, and He is Blind | Joe Orozco
The high cost of assistive technology sometimes drives people to purchase used items on the open market, but this case study serves as a reminder that consumers should always be careful with how they make purchases:
https://joeorozco.com/i-have-met-the-enemy-and-he-is-blind/
3) The Case For Describing Race In Alternative Text Attributes
This is an excellent article by Tolu Adegbite on why we need to get more descriptive in some alternative text descriptions:
https://ux.shopify.com/the-case-for-describing-race-in-alternative-text-attributes-a093380634f2
4) Flicktype's Lawsuit Against Apple And Its App Store Is Moving Forward
Another lawsuit against Apple is moving forward:
https://www.imore.com/flicktypes-lawsuit-against-apple-and-its-app-store-moving-forward
5) The Crisis Is Real: Where Are The Web Accessibility Professionals?
Like everyone in the web accessibility field, WebAIM has a vested interest in a sufficiently-sized community comprised of skilled professionals. The shortage of qualified talent is felt by all of us. But from where will these individuals come, and how can we accelerate their availability?
https://webaim.org/blog/web-accessibility-professionals/
6) What Kind of Writer Accuses Libraries of Stealing?
A wrangle on the topic of Controlled Digital Lending:
https://popula.com/2022/01/22/what-kind-of-writer-accuses-libraries-of-stealing/
7) Workplace Technology: Accommodations and Accessibility
American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) released a study of 317 participants who requested accommodation during the hiring process. It was a comprehensive survey, and the entire report is worth a read:
https://www.afb.org/research-and-initiatives/workplace-tech-study/accommodations-and-accessibility
8) Hitting The Books: The Decades-Long Fight To Bring Live Television To Deaf Audiences
Engadget has a write up on a new book by Harry G. Lang on the history of closed captioning in the United States:
https://www.engadget.com/hitting-the-books-turn-on-the-words-harry-lang-gallaudet-university-press-163045001.html
9) New Memoir "Snow Blind" Celebrates The Power Of Skiing For The Visually Impaired
Johnson's new memoir is a beautiful tribute to the uplifting joy of skiing and an inspiring tale of human resilience:
https://www.vaildaily.com/entertainment/new-memoir-snow-blind-celebrates-the-power-of-skiing-for-the-visually-impaired/
10) A Blind Tech Consultant Finds His Calling
Legally blind from birth, Julian Vargas's old cell phone led him to a new career in training other blind people how to use technology:
https://www.pcmag.com/news/a-blind-tech-consultant-finds-his-calling
11) How Digital Content Empowers Braille Literacy
Braille is an essential tool that promotes literacy for individuals who are blind. It provides a means of reading and writing at home, in school, and in the workplace that can't be substituted by any other means of accessibility:
https://blog.freedomscientific.com/how-digital-content-empowers-braille-literacy/
12) Action Request: American Council of the Blind Seeks Update on Accessible At-Home COVID Testing
Dear Acting Director Lawrence Tabak: As the President of the American Council of the Blind (ACB), we need your help. I write to you on behalf of our members and the blind and low vision community, to urge the National Institutes of Health to develop accessible testing right away:
https://acb.org/accessible-test-letter-1-31-22
13) Aussie Device That Gives Eyes To The Blind Fast-Tracked In US
A world-first bionic eye that restores partial vision to the blind has been given "breakthrough" designation by the United States' Food and Drug Administration (FDA):
https://thewest.com.au/news/aussie-device-that-gives-eyes-to-the-blind-fast-tracked-in-us-c-5528069
14) 3 Ways Focusing on Office Accessibility Can Boost Your Reputation and ROI
Making your office maximally accessible to people with disabilities or limitations is not just the right thing to do — it also gives teams additional communication and productivity tools:
https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/411625
15) NBCUniversal Enhances Accessibility for 2022 Winter Olympic & Paralympic Games
NBCUniversal's Winter Games coverage will be more accessible to viewers of all abilities than ever before, providing the opportunity to enjoy the excitement of the Beijing Olympic and Paralympic Games through closed captioning, audio description, and digital content accessibility:
https://corporate.comcast.com/press/releases/nbcuniversal-enhances-accessibility-2022-winter-olympic-paralympic-games
16) Butler Museum Embraces Use of Aira App for the Visually Impaired
People who are blind or have low vision can enjoy The Butler Institute of American Art through an online service that describes art:
https://businessjournaldaily.com/butler-museum-embraces-use-of-aira-app-for-the-visually-impaired/
17) This Remarkable Tech Can Actually Improve The Eyesight Of The Visually Impaired
A gene-editing treatment known as CRISPR appears to have positive results for people suffering from a rare visual disorder. According to new reports, researchers injected seven volunteers with CRISPR to treat a rare vision disorder. Unlike other treatments, scientists designed CRISPR to fight diseases at a genetic level. Following the experiment, some of the volunteers noted a marked improvement in their eyesight. The affected individuals were all born with vision disorders, however, thanks to CRISPR, they're now able to see better:
https://bgr.com/science/this-remarkable-tech-can-actually-improve-the-eyesight-of-the-visually-impaired/
18) Blind And Low-Vision Fans Benefiting From New Technology At Australian Open
Developers hope the Action Audio system will be adopted by other grand slams:
https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/tennis/people-tennis-australia-australian-hawkeye-rod-laver-arena-b2000874.html
19) Blind Institute Of Technology Partners Up With Be My Eyes To Assist Professionals With Disabilities
The Blind Institute of Technology (BIT) has announced its partnership with Be My Eyes, an innovative app that provides real-time video assistance for individuals who are blind and visually impaired. Starting on February 2, 2022, the Blind Institute of Technology (BIT) team will be able to field calls from the Specialized Help section of the app:
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/blind-institute-of-technology-partners-up-with-be-my-eyes-to-assist-professionals-with-disabilities-301466932.html
20) A New Wave of Lawsuits Accuses 50 Art Galleries of Allegedly Violating the Americans With Disabilities Act
Dealers complain that a lack of clear guidelines has opened the door to a flood of lawsuits:
https://news.artnet.com/news-pro/a-wave-of-new-lawsuits-has-hit-art-galleries-2063662
21) Why Technology Accessibility Is Key For Disability Inclusion At Work
Technology, like video conferencing tools and online messaging systems, has gained prominence in workplaces across the country, especially during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic as many businesses have switched to remote and hybrid models. In fact, more than half of U.S. workers rely on technology to complete their jobs. For workers with disabilities, tools for accessibility, like screen readers and subtitles for video meetings, are extremely important and necessary for workplace inclusion:
https://www.cnbc.com/2022/01/26/why-technology-accessibility-is-key-for-disability-inclusion-at-work.html
22) Video: Audio Devices Fitted In Dozens Of Rail Operator's Toilets To Help Visually Impaired Visitors
Dozens of toilets at Northern Rail's stations will be fitted with a new device to help blind and visually impaired people navigate the toilets more confidently. RoomMate is a wall-mounted device that gives blind and visually impaired visitors bespoke audio description in an accessible toilet. It will be installed in 44 locations across the rail operators' network. If audio guidance is required, a wave of the hand over the unit triggers a detailed explanation of the room in order of typical use:
http://attoday.co.uk/video-audio-devices-fitted-in-dozens-of-rail-operators-toilets-to-help-visually-impaired-visitors/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther 43: SCUBA Diving Blind and Wrecks of the St. Lawrence |
January 23rd 2022 | On episode 43 of the AMI Audio podcast "Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther" we explore SCUBA for blind and low vision divers with Hubert Chretien, executive director of Freedom at Depth. Ms. Lilly shares the details of a number of notable shipwrecks that have occurred over the past 300 years on the St. Lawrence River. Lawrence and Hubert discuss tips and tech used by vision impaired SCUBA divers and their sighted dive partners, and Lawrence reflects on some of the professional blind SCUBA divers he's met over the years. If you want to learn to SCUBA, sign up with Freedom at Depth now before dive season starts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/episode-43-scuba-diving-blind-and-wrecks-of-the-st-lawrence/id1530444764?i=1000548747836
2) Blind Android Users 60 | Network and Internet
January 29th 2022 | This week we start talking about settings in Android. We talk about network and connections in android and mainly focus on hotspot. We are then joined by Charles Leclercq, CEO of ArxVision, developer of the soon to be launched ARxWear Headset which enables a user to have their surroundings described such as the contents of a document, a storefront, or items on a shelf. In our app of the week segment, we demo universal copy app. You can listen to our podcast on all smart speakers, popular podcast playing apps and Youtube.To listen to the podcast on our wqebsite, please visit:
https://blindandroidusers.com/category/bauposts/shownotes/
3) DM87 - Tracking Voice Toys
February 1st 2022 | In the latest episode of the Damashe and Michael, Just Talking Tech Series we start out with Michael demoing one of the new narrator voices. Damashe shares info about how you can now type either / or to get to a url. This takes us into a conversation about focus modes and automating the use of these. Damashe and Michael discuss the problem with a unified design for credit and debit cards. This takes us into a conversation regarding the Lookout app on Android and how effective it is. You can listen in on our conversation about backups and what we are using to keep our digital lives backed up. This then takes us to a conversation about Damashe's new toy, let us know what you think of it! This then takes us into a discussion about this being the year of tracking. And Damashe closes our chat out with a way he's using AIRA:
https://yourownpay.com/dm87
4) Eyes on Success 2205 Taking Charge of Your Health
February 2nd 2022 | As a result of being born prematurely, Jeff Bishop had to deal with a number of medical issues including becoming a diabetic. Hosts Nancy and Peter talk with Jeff about his journey to control his diabetes by making a series of lifestyle changes that included sticking to a healthy diet, regular exercise, and developing the drive to succeed:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202205.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Accessible Signage | U.S. Access Board
February 3rd 2022 | 11:30AM PT, 12:30PM MT, 1:30PM CT, 2:30PM ET, 7:30 PM GMT | What type of signs are covered by the ADA and ABA Standards? Which ones must be tactile? Are signs required where none are planned? These are just some of the questions that frequently come up when addressing access to signs under the ADA and ABA. The Access Board will soon issue a new technical bulletin on signs that clarifies scoping and technical requirements in the ADA and ABA Accessibility Standards for signs, answers common questions, and provides best practice recommendations. This session will review the new bulletin and requirements for tactile signs, directional and information signs, required accessibility symbols, and pictograms. Presenters will also explain ways to meet various provisions and common sources of confusion about accessible signage. This webinar will include video remote interpreting (VRI) and real-time captioning. Questions can be submitted in advance of the session or can be posed during the live webinar. Webinar attendees can earn continuing education credits. Continuing Education Recognition Available:
https://www.access-board.gov/webinars/2022/02/03/accessible-signage/
2) Washington Seminar Career Fair | NFB
February 7th 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | The National Federation of the Blind will hold the 2022 Washington Seminar Career Fair virtually on Monday, February 7, 2022 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. eastern. Connect with diverse and dynamic employers and job seekers from across the United States. This event is organized by the National Federation of the Blind Employee Committee. The NFB Employment Committee runs employment activities during the year. It is our goal to bring employers who are interested in hiring blind people in contact with blind people who are looking for employment. We do seminars and other activities to help blind job seekers develop interviewing and other skills. We also help answer employer questions about hiring blind people. Registration open. Register by January 25, 2022, 8 p.m. eastern time:
https://nfb.org/programs-services/advocacy/washington-seminar/washington-seminar-career-fair
3) Meet the New RUBY 10 (ACVREP CE Approved) | Access Ingenuity
February 9th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Join Ian Ramos from Access Ingenuity and Joe McDaniel and Mike Wood from Vispero to meet the new RUBY 10. During this webinar, we will demonstrate the advanced capabilities of the latest low vision solution from Freedom Scientific, the RUBY 10. The video magnifier has a 10-inch touchscreen and three dedicated cameras, and it can magnify letters, magazines, labels, and photos. The swing-out arm allows you to view items in your hand and write, and when extended, it also enables full-page OCR. With a touch of a button, you can scan pages and have them read aloud to you. The third camera can see objects at a short distance, such as signs and menus on a wall. Users can utilize cutting-edge magnification features with industry-leading OCR to maximize the reading experience. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: How RUBY 10 uses cutting-edge view modes not seen in any other device. Discover different uses of the RUBY 10. How the RUBY 10 differs from the other models. Why having OCR in a portable unit can be a game-changer. Meeting ID: 843 8747 2637 | Passcode: 269697 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,84387472637#,,,,*269697# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84387472637?pwd=U2lHMDA3YmQxWG9GakVLWTh2cHAzdz09
4) 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
5) Jaw Muscles: A Guide to Increased Productivity Using JAWS for Windows | Hartgen Consultancy
February 14th 2022 | While many people can use computing applications with the keyboard at a basic level, we want to kick your screen-reading skills into shape. We'll show you plenty of strategies you probably didn't know about. Once you've completed our new training course, you will be able to show everyone your screen-reading muscles! Course Delivery: Jaw Muscles will commence week beginning Monday 14 February 2022 and weekly thereafter. The cost of the course is £50 which is currently 68 US dollars. Purchase JAW Muscles Online. While it is by no means a requirement for course participation, we are offering an additional package if you do not have our Leasey product. One of the main advantages of Leasey is to add even more productivity tools to those already available within JAWS and this year, we intend to add even more of these. JAW Muscles with Leasey is available at a substantially reduced rate for a combined total of £80 which is approximately $108 US. Purchase Jaw Muscles With Leasey Online. Alternatively, anyone can purchase either package by sending an email to jaws@hartgen.org 📧️, whereupon a fully accessible electronic invoice will be sent to you which can be paid through PayPal or any major credit or debit card.
6) Working with Tables & JAWS | Access Ingenuity
February 16th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Many screen reader users face challenges with navigating tables. However, some specific methods and commands make navigating tables much simpler. Join Zhi Huang, Marisa Church, and Rachel Reeves from Access Ingenuity to explore working with tables using the JAWS screen reader. Learning Outcomes: Introduce the different ways to read and edit tables in Microsoft Word. Discover how to navigate tables in HTML, such as on a web browser or reading a PDF with Adobe Reader. Explore the JAWS quick settings to customize the way JAWS behaves with tables. Meeting ID: 839 1156 9156 | Passcode: 811726 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,83911569156#,,,,*811726# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83911569156?pwd=RVJYV0JJVFB3Q3FGM1RVT0k2a0gyZz09
7) Prep and Proof Word Documents Using Track Changes and Comments with JAWS | Freedom Scientific
February 17th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Track Changes is a feature in Microsoft Word that allows you to view changes made to a document by you or other users. Comments in a Word document provide information from reviewers or collaborators without altering the document's text. This feature is great for asking questions or making suggestions. Join us on Thursday, February 17, 2022, at noon Eastern Time as we describe and demonstrate how to use the Track Changes and Comments features in Word. We'll show you how to: Turn on and navigate Track Changes. Accept or reject changes. Keep Track Changes turned on. Add and read comments. Reply to comments. Register:
https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_yu1HjdDGSjO06bQ-lGxM9w
8) What Are Focus Braille Displays and the ElBraille Notetaker? (ACVREP CE Approved) | Access Ingenuity
February 23rd 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | The Focus Braille displays have been around for quite a long time. However, many may not know about the fifth-generation features. In addition, the 40-cell version can work in conjunction with the ElBraille Notetaker. Join Ian Ramos, Marisa Church, and Zhi Huang from Access Ingenuity and Joe McDaniel from Vispero to learn about the Focus Braille displays and ElBraille Notetaker running on Windows to help determine if one or both these products would be beneficial to you. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), this presentation is approved for ACVREP continuing education credit. Learning Outcomes: Discuss the Focus Braille displays, the new features, and the differences of the fifth-generation products. Introduce the ElBraille Notetaker that runs on Windows 10 and 11, coupled with the Focus fifth-generation Braille display. Discuss the features of the Focus Braille display and ElBraille Notetaker and provide scenarios where it is ideal to have only a Focus Braille display or both. Provide demonstrations and orientations of both the Focus and the ElBraille. Meeting ID: 845 9035 5826 | Passcode: 951549 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,84590355826#,,,,*951549# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose) | Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84590355826?pwd=YXRvQjNRZ0JDYWtUamFNTUV3Y3J1Zz09
9) Taking Your Accessibility Statement To The Next Level
February 24th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | The accessibility statement is a familiar public expression of an organization's commitment to digital accessibility. In the European Union, legislation mandates public organizations provide a web accessibility statement in a particular format. Elsewhere, accessibility statements are often limited to a generic and vague expression of a future ideal, or present overly detailed technical information (which can quickly becomes dated and inaccurate). But they can be so much more. Join David Sloan, head of UX at TPGi and a 20-year accessibility veteran, in an exploration on how your organization can take advantage of the many opportunities an effective accessibility statement or microsite can bring to your accessibility efforts. For example, you can use it to: Describe accessibility features you provide. Effectively report on your progress and plans. Provide a trusted communication channel for people with disabilities. We'll also look at strategies for managing your accessibility statement content as it evolves over time. Don't pass up this exciting chance to learn how you can take advantage of an accessibility statement's possibilities. If you are using Internet Explorer and have cookies disabled (either via privacy mode or decline cookies on the website), you may not be able to register through this form. If you are still unable to register, please email ida@tpgi.com 📧️ with your name and contact information. Ida will arrange the registration on your behalf:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-february-24-at-12pm-et-taking-your-accessibility-statement-to-the-next-level/
10) Breast Cancer Webinar for Women Who Are Blind | Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind
February 25th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | On February 25, 2022, please join Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind as we discuss accessible breast cancer information, detection and prevention for blind women and their families with these expert presenters: Dr. Kim Kubek, MD: Pennsylvania Diagnostic Breast Cancer Center and https://www.breastcancer.org/. Dr. Kristen Capece, PharmD, BCGP: Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind. Dr. Jill Lykon, PharmD, BCOP: University of Miami Hospital. Agenda: 12:00 - Welcome. 12:05 - Dr. Kim Kubek: Breast Cancer Overview and How to Self-Exam. 12:50 - American Cancer Society: Accessible Cancer Resources. 1:00 - Dr. Kristen Capece: Cancer Medications. 1:15 - Dr. Jill Lykon: Impact of Chemotherapy on Medication and Diabetes. This webinar will have captioning and a live ASL interpreter. Eligible attendees can receive CE credit for participating. If you are unable to attend, still be sure to register to receive access to the webinar audio and video after the event, as well as an audio description of a breast self-exam for women who are blind or have low vision:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_caNB11QmS4a4KjJyBnZWwQ
11) Virtual Assistive Technology Expo | School of Medicine Columbia | University of South Carolina
March 1st 2022 | 5:30AM PT, 6:30AM MT, 7:30AM CT, 8:30AM ET, 1:30 PM GMT | Join us March 1, 2022 for a full day of fast-paced sessions showcasing the latest assistive technology for people with a wide range of disabilities. This year's expo will be presented virtually and two $50 gift cards will be given away after each session so register today:
https://www.sc.edu/study/colleges_schools/medicine/centers_and_institutes_new/center_for_disability_resources/assistive_technology/expo/index.php
12) Accommodation Solutions for Executive Functioning Deficits | AskJan
March 10 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | Executive functions are high-level mental processes or abilities that influence and direct more basic abilities like attention and memory. Join JAN Cognitive/Neurological Team consultants Melanie Whetzel and Alexis Popa for a discussion about accommodation solutions that address limitations affecting attention, time management, memory, hyperactivity/impulsivity, and getting to work on time. This training will be a live question and answer session but will include JAN accommodation examples to prompt thinking about the topics and generate questions about the difficulties you or your employees are experiencing on the job that involve attention, meeting deadlines, productivity standards, and more:
https://askjan.org/events/index.cfm?calview=eventdetails&dtid=8915ADD3-BF08-73CC-570AFACA27FE7DCE
13) Screen Reader User Tester Training Program | Carroll Center for the Blind | Become a Screen Reader User Tester and Launch Your Career in Digital Accessibility
March 14th 2022 | Want to break into the field of digital accessibility as a screen reader user tester? A new session of the Carroll Center for the Blind's popular 7-week, face-to-face Screen Reader User Tester Training program starts on March 14, 2022. Come learn and grow your ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers during this intensive training program. If you're interested in gaining the foundation to develop a solid career path in the digital accessibility field while making a difference as a screen reader user tester, reach out today. Spots are filling up fast! To learn more, visit the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program page at: https://carroll.org/screen-reader-user-tester-training-program/. To apply, please reach out to the admissions team at the Carroll Center by emailing admissions@carroll.org 📧️ or by calling (617) 969-6200 📱️, extension 216.
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/
15) Section 508 Questions and Answers | U.S. Access Board
March 29th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | Technical questions can arise in applying the Section 508 Standards to the various types of information and communication technologies (ICT) that they cover in the federal sector. In this webinar, Section 508 Specialists at the U.S. Access Board and the General Services Administration (GSA) will provide answers to common questions about the 508 Standards. They will address use of the 508 Standards in ICT acquisitions, validating conformance with the standards, available Section 508 tools and resources, the 2021 revision of the Federal Acquisition Regulation, development of an ICT Testing Baseline portfolio, and other topics. This session is intended for entry-level to intermediate audiences, but all are welcome to join. This webinar will include video remote interpreting (VRI) and real-time captioning. Questions can be submitted in advance of the session or can be posed during the live webinar. Continuing Education Recognition Available:
https://www.access-board.gov/webinars/2022/03/29/section-508-questions-and-answers/
16) 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 App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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: Freedom Scientific
➜ 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
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
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
➜ 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/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
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)
➜ Coding is Easy and Accessible with Colby the Code & Go Robot Mouse
Code & Go Mouse introduces coding concepts and tactile graphics as users program Colby to race through a maze toward the cheese. Colby lights-up, makes sounds, and features two speeds along with colorful buttons for easy programming and sequencing.
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 You in 2022!
(1) New protective hands-free leather pouch for larger phones Pro and Pro Max and Android) 5 by 8 inches; 4 compartments; $30. (2) New single-ear headphone design with easy to locate buttons and all day comfort: $45. (3) Talking Medical Bundle Sale - (infrared thermometer, BP unit with cuff, and oximeter, ending Jan. 31: $130. (4) Many new leather bag styles for laptops, tablets, and Braille displays. Call Barry at (617) 969-7500 📱️ | bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️ or Kae at (781) 286-1696 📱️ | guidelightdogs@gmail.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
➜ 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
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
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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
The DannyBoy Portable Stand holds your Smart Phone stationary so it's camera can view items and documents clearly providing stability for excellent recognition & clarity. Take perfect pictures and scan images. Read documents quickly and easily. Great for anyone with motor disabilities, too! Made with the Blind In Mind! Lightweight & Portable. Ready To Use or Collapses In Seconds. Read All About the DannyBoy Portable Stand at DannyBoy.com in BlindMiceMegaMall.com at:
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
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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.
Your Name Here
0 of 12 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 0 of 12 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, January 27, 2022 - Volume 843
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.
Subscribers: 6,989 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email.
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.) Biped's Smart Harness Helps Visually Impaired People Avoid Obstacles While Walking (6.2% of all clicks.)
https://www.dezeen.com/2022/01/14/biped-smart-harness-visually-impaired-obstacles-ces-2022/
B.) Stop Using Safari Immediately (at Least for Now) (5.6% of all clicks.)
https://lifehacker.com/stop-using-safari-immediately-at-least-for-now-1848384461
C.) Now You Can Play The Popular Game Wordle With A Screen Reader (5.2% of all clicks.)
https://www.blindbargains.com/bargains.php?m=22165
D.) 20 Cool Google Tricks to Search More Effectively (5.1% of all clicks.)
https://helpdeskgeek.com/how-to/20-cool-google-tricks-to-search-more-effectively/
E.) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory (4.1% of all clicks.)
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Hey Alexa
A) Don't miss any of the action in the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. Ask Alexa when the games start, when closing and opening ceremonies will be happening and more. Just say, "Alexa, when is the Opening Ceremony?"
B) Alexa can tell you when specific sports begin. Get ready for curling, snowboarding, speed skating and all your favorite winter sports. Just say, "Alexa, when is Figure Skating?"
C) Hear insider coverage leading up to the games. Learn about the stories that have defined past games and those that will shape this year's event. Just say, "Alexa, play The Podium Podcast."
D) Once the games begin on February 4th 2022 Alexa can give you daily updates on what's happening. Ask about a specific sport or country too. Just say, "Alexa, what's my Olympics update?"
3) JAWS Power Tip: Creating and Editing Signatures in Microsoft Outlook with JAWS
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/53.html
4) Navilens: The Cutting-Edge Technology For The Visually Impaired
This app and associated system of signage is relatively new to us. There's nothing actionable here but it appeals to us because it works outside of GPS and since it is not based on direction, would work well for someone who is blind or low vision and has a hearing impairment. If you live near transit where NaviLens has been enabled and have experience with it, please reach out to us and provide feedback on its effectiveness:
https://www.navilens.com/en/
5) 5 Things I Learned From My Smart Range
While not directly related to accessibility we are excited about internet connected appliances because of the accessibility improvements they will bring to the home. Users who are blind or who have low vision could independently set temperature and safely ensure that the stove or other appliances are off using an accessible smartphone app:
https://staceyoniot.com/5-things-i-learned-from-my-smart-range/
6) BrailleR
R is an integrated suite of software facilities for data manipulation, calculation, and graphical display. The BrailleR package has been created for the benefit of blind people wishing to get more out of R. This should be of interest to any visually impaired person going into statistics or data science. More information and a getting started guide are here:
https://cran.r-project.org/web/packages/BrailleR/vignettes/GettingStarted.html
7) SAS® Graphics Accelerator
While we are on the topic of statistics, SAS Graphics Accelerator enables users with visual impairments or blindness to create, explore, and share data visualizations created in the SAS products:
http://support.sas.com/software/products/graphics-accelerator/
8) Microsoft Disability Scholarship
This scholarship from Microsoft will be awarded to high school seniors with disabilities who plan to attend a vocational or academic college and target a career in the technology industry. All completed applications must be submitted by March 15, 2022:
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/diversity/programs/microsoftdisabilityscholarship.aspx
9) Wordle: 5 Letter Guessing Game
While we recently covered Wordle accessibility via screen reader, this article, from Perkins, shows us how to create a tactile version of the game:
https://www.perkinselearning.org/technology/blog/wordle-5-letter-guessing-game
10) Rest Your Fingers, Try Google Docs Voice Typing
Voice typing, also called speech to text, frees up your fingers and hands so that you can write by speaking out loud. It's free in Google Docs and works with dozens of languages. PC Mag provides some tips for mastering the service:
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/rest-your-fingers-try-google-docs-voice-typing
11) Australian Open Debuts Sound Design Intervention For Blind Tennis Fans
Action Audio by AKQA uses real-time ball monitoring technology and spatial sound design to give low-sight audiences insight into what is happening on the court:
https://www.designweek.co.uk/issues/17-23-january-2022/australian-open-action-audio/
12) Windows 10 vs Windows 11: All the Major Changes
Windows 11 is Microsoft's newest Windows release, and with it comes a lot of promises and changes from Microsoft. From a fresh, modern look to brand-new features, Windows 11 is quite a bit different than Windows 10:
https://www.makeuseof.com/windows-10-11-major-changes/
13) Creating and Reading Accessible Math | The DAISY Consortium
This webinar from October 20th 2021 saw a session focused on accessible math and some of the complexities surrounding the creation and reading of math for students. The page contains: Full Video of the Webinar. Speaker Information. Session Overview. Related Resources
https://daisy.org/news-events/articles/creating-reading-accessible-math-w/
14) 5 Download-Free OCR Websites That Let You Convert Images to Text for Free
While there are some great tools for converting images to text, not many of these are online. So, here are five download-free OCR tools to use:
https://www.makeuseof.com/convert-images-text-download-free-ocr-websites/
15) Did You Know Spotify Has a Voice Assistant?
Voice assistants are all the rage, but did you know that Spotify has one too? That's right, the Spotify app for iPhone, iPad, and Android has a voice assistant built-in. This article tells you all about it:
https://www.howtogeek.com/779632/did-you-know-spotify-has-a-voice-assistant/
16) Making It Easier To Create Content That Everyone Can Use — What's New In Microsoft 365 Accessibility Features For Winter 2022
https://blogs.microsoft.com/accessibility/m365-winter-accessibility-updates/
17) Installing Windows 11 On Mac Accessibly | YouTube - Techopolis
In this tutorial Tay shows you how to accessibly install Windows 11 on your M1 Mac:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xwWdac5hNw4&t=17s
18) The Mega-Guide to Fixing Your Own iPhone | Wired
Battery not holding a charge? Wi-Fi woes? Wired breaks down ways to solve almost any issue you can think of:
https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-fix-your-iphone/
19) How to Index Windows 11 for Faster Search Results
You can speed up your search results by indexing them. Here's everything you need to get started:
https://www.makeuseof.com/windows-11-index-faster-search-results/
20) Audible App For Windows Has Been Discontinued, Company Advises Users To Switch To The Cloud Player Or Mobile Apps
The audiobook platform is recommending users switch to the Audible mobile app on iOS or Android, as a means to access their purchased content. The other alternative is to use the Audible Cloud Player, which is the web-based solution offered by the service that you can use from any web browser. The AudibleSync app is available from the official website, you can use it to download your audiobooks and transfer it to other devices:
https://www.ghacks.net/2022/01/19/audible-app-for-windows-has-been-discontinued-company-advises-users-to-switch-to-the-cloud-player-or-mobile-apps/
21) Windows 11 Accessibility For The Blind And Vision Impaired | YouTube - The Blind Life
This is a first look at the accessibility features of the new Windows 11 operating system. In this video, we walk through all of the settings and accessibility options that will help the blind, vision impaired, low vision, and partially sighted, use the computer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8yQ9HUNuLeI
22) New Device Lets People Who Are Blind "See" In Infrared
Watch out, Matt Murdock — there may be a new Daredevil in Hell's Kitchen soon enough! While Murdock's superhero character relies on super hearing, taste and electrical impulses to see because he is blind, IRL folks with low vision may soon have access to a new pair of goggles that uses infrared technology to assist in navigating the world around them:
https://futurism.com/neoscope/people-blind-infrared-camera
23) Google Pixel 6's December 2021 Update: Accessibility Features
Google has recently pushed out its December 2021 update for the Google Pixel 6 range of smartphones, and in it are some exclusive accessibility improvements. These include support for people that have difficulty hearing conversations in loud places and some extra language support in its other features:
https://www.accessibility.org.au/google-pixel-6s-december-update-accessibility-features/
24) Haptic Feedback Sleeve And Goggles Allow Blind People To 'See' With Their Arm
Two researchers with the Center for Digital Technology and Management, Technical University of Munich, have developed a haptic feedback sleeve and goggle system that allows blind people to partially "see" with the skin on their arm. Manuel Zahn and Armaghan Ahmad Khan published a paper describing their sleeve and goggle system on the arXiv preprint server:
https://techxplore.com/news/2022-01-haptic-feedback-sleeve-goggles-people.html
25) High School Students Build "Atheia" For Visually Impaired During Pandemic
Taking advantage of the abilities of machine learning, a group of bright high school students have created an app called "Atheia" that will not only help detect objects but also describe a scene just as a human would. The app strives to improve spatial awareness and safety for blind people. According to the source article, it can also identify family and friends through facial recognition, has a built in text reader to read text on objects aloud and can search for objects in the person's immediate surrounding:
https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2022/01/atheia-for-blind.html
26) Bionic Eye Implant Helps Blind 88-Year-Old To See Again
UK-first procedure involved surgically inserting a 2mm microchip beneath the patient's retina and fitting them with special video glasses:
https://www.sciencefocus.com/news/bionic-eye-implant-inserted-beneath-retina-helps-blind-88-year-old-to-see-again/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) The Access Technology Affordability Act
Chris Hofstader shares his opinions on this bill in a blog post:
https://www.chrishofstader.com/the-access-technology-affordability-act/
2) Open Letter To IAAP Against Overlay Providers
An open letter to voice opposition to an overlay company being a member of the International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP), and opposing IAAP publicizing overlay companies material:
https://incl.ca/open-letter-to-iaap-against-overlay-providers/
3) Music Professionals With Disabilities Have New Champion in Advocacy Organization RAMPD
Co-founded by artists Lachi and Gaelynn Lea, the coalition is focused on promoting "disability culture" and inclusion in the music industry:
https://www.billboard.com/business/business-news/rampd-music-disability-advocacy-launch-1235021234/
4) Cisco Introduces Digital Accessibility Features For Webex
Cisco aims the latest features at making Webex friendlier to disabled people, an essential step as digital accessibility lawsuits rise and the fight for talent intensifies:
https://www.techtarget.com/searchunifiedcommunications/news/252512340/Cisco-introduces-digital-accessibility-features-for-Webex
5) Why Many Blind People Can't Take An At-Home COVID-19 Test
The US government began taking orders for free, at-home COVID-19 tests this week, making it likely that more people will be able to take a test soon, if they wish. But for those who are blind or visually impaired, having a test and being able to use it are not the same. That's because taking an at-home COVID-19 test requires vision, and the ability to complete the process without touching the test strip:
https://www.kut.org/2022-01-19/why-many-blind-people-cant-take-an-at-home-covid-19-test
6) Envision Opens First-Of-Its-Kind National Gallery Exhibiting Art for and by Artists and Audiences Who are Blind or Visually Impaired
Envision, a leading non-profit employing and furthering possibilities for those who are blind or have low vision, has opened a first-of-its-kind national permanent gallery that gives artists who are visually impaired a stage to showcase their work. Located in Wichita, Kansas, the Envision Arts Gallery and Community Engagement Center defies the obstacles faced by marginalized artists who are blind or visually impaired (BVI) and gives those with Intellectual and Development Disabilities (IDD), as well as sighted and neurotypical audiences, a chance to experience art through multiple senses:
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/envision-opens-first-of-its-kind-national-gallery-exhibiting-art-for-and-by-artists-and-audiences-who-are-blind-or-visually-impaired-301465218.html
7) ADP Settlement Offers Framework for Future Digital-Accessibility Agreements
When a lawsuit alleged that human-resources software company Automatic Data Processing Inc. had failed to make its products accessible for people who are blind or have low vision, the case joined a growing body of litigation over accessibility in the digital world. But its recent settlement, and the path that the opposing parties took to get there, could do more for digital accessibility than many of the cases that came before it, some advocates say. The sides used so-called structured negotiations — a strategy in which parties agree to cooperate with one another, usually without a lawsuit on file — that resulted in a settlement without further litigation in court. They also made public the details of their agreement, including a commitment by ADP not to rely entirely on automation to make its products accessible:
https://www.wsj.com/articles/adp-settlement-offers-framework-for-future-digital-accessibility-agreements-11642699462
8) Why Many Blind People Can't Take An At-Home COVID-19 Test
Taking a test and reading the results requires vision, or the assistance of a sighted friend. Blind people say they want to take medical tests independently and privately:
https://www.texasstandard.org/stories/why-many-blind-people-cant-take-an-at-home-covid-19-test/
9) Temporary Disability Changed the Way I Look at My Environment
Now, the challenge is to never forget the lessons I learned:
https://medium.com/completely-inclusive/temporary-disability-changed-the-way-i-look-at-my-environment-562f263872d0
10) Local Colorado Non-Profit Adapts A Classic Children's Book For Kids With Disabilities
Colorado-based nonprofit, Imagination Videobooks, that produces accessible videos of children's books for those who are hearing or visually impaired, or have learning disabilities recently turned the classic Winnie-the-Pooh book into an audiobook series (and soon the video version) that all kids can enjoy, no matter their ability:
https://kdvr.com/news/local-colorado-non-profit-adapts-a-classic-childrens-book-for-kids-with-disabilities/
11) 'Serious Concerns' Over NSW Ivote Suspension For Blind Voters
Vision Australia calls for upgrades to be fast-tracked:
https://www.itnews.com.au/news/serious-concerns-over-nsw-ivote-suspension-for-blind-voters-574859
12) Good News To Patients With Corneal Blindness: MIOK Keratoprosthesis, The World's First Artificial Cornea Of 100% Non-Biological Materials Has Been Approved For Listing In China
On December 7, 2021, MIOK Keratoprosthesis was approved for listing by NMPA, the Chinese agency for regulating drugs and medical devices. MIOK Keratoprosthesis is the world's first ever approved artificial cornea that requires no co-implantation of donor corneas, and is of great significance across the 60 million patients with corneal blindness worldwide, as MIOK Keratoprosthesis makes it no longer impossible to restore sight to patients with corneal blindness, and ease the burden on their families:
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/good-news-to-patients-with-corneal-blindness-miok-keratoprosthesis-the-worlds-first-artificial-cornea-of-100-non-biological-materials-has-been-approved-for-listing-in-china-301463469.html
13) The Colombian Who Translates Sports For The Blind In The United States
14) Comcast and Team Gleason Partner to Revolutionize TV Control and More for People with Physical and Speech Disabilities
Together, Comcast and Team Gleason are actively engaging with people with ALS (pALS) and caregivers, as well as preeminent clinicians, technologists and assistive technology partners to define and develop accessible, empowering experiences - from TV control to smart home solutions and beyond:
https://corporate.comcast.com/press/releases/comcast-team-gleason-partner-revolutionize-tv-control-physical-speech-disabilities
15) 'This Is Us': Is the Actor Who Plays Jack Damon Visually Impaired in Real Life?
This Is Us reintroduced viewers to the character of Jack Damon, played by Blake Stadnik, during "Four Fathers," the third episode in the series final season. In the future, Toby and Kate's son appears to have achieved extraordinary professional success as a musician. He is also happily married to Lucy (Auden Thornton). On the show, the character is visually impaired. Is Stadnik visually impaired as well?
https://www.cheatsheet.com/entertainment/this-is-us-blake-stadnik-jack-damon-visually-impaired.html/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Blind Android Users 59 | Journey Through The Apps Drawer or Apps List
January 22nd 2022 | This week we talk about apps drawer vs apps list. We talk about the history of apps drawer. We demo global search on Pixel phones, apps drawer on the Pixel launcher, apps drawer, folder and tabs on Nova launcher. We then had a demo on how to open and read Google docs on Android. We then demo AVS converter. In Talkback Highlights we show the left right swipe gestures. To listen to the podcast, please visit:
https://blindandroidusers.com/category/bauposts/shownotes/
2) Eyes on Success 2204 Accessibility of Medical Devices
January 26th 2022 | In order for people to take charge of their health and manage certain medical conditions it is often important that medical monitoring devices be accessible to those who need them. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Tom Tobin and Jeff Bishop, who are both blind, about the importance of having accessible devices and where we stand today:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202204.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) ATIA (Assistive Technology Industry Association) 2022 Conference
January 26th 2022 through January 29th 2022 | ATIA 2022. Where the Assistive Technology Community Meets to Network, Learn and Share. Over the past 22 years, ATIA has been a community gathering for assistive technology practitioners, teachers, parents and caregivers, persons with disabilities and more to learn, network and share on the best in assistive technology. We are excited to gather together for ATIA 2022, January 26 - 29, 2022 (Pre-conference Seminars January 25 - 26) in Orlando, Florida, with a virtual component:
https://www.atia.org/atia-2022/
2) Using a Team Approach in Evaluating Students with Visual Impairments Using the Woodcock-Johnson IV Braille Adaptation | APH
January 27th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Psychologists and diagnosticians trained in using the Woodcock-Johnson IV rarely have the knowledge and experience necessary to validly evaluate students with visual impairments who use braille. Join this webinar to learn how to be a valuable team member in administering and scoring the tests and in interpreting the results:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_na8C0sOIS7CUpeLKsNDLfQ
3) Accessibility Compliance and Risk Mitigation Tactics | TBase Communications, CommonLook and Accessible 360
January 27th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | As legislation evolves, many organizations are unaware that providing accessible technology is not a choice — it is now the law. These laws define the civil rights of those with disabilities and ensure equitable access across websites, apps, and internal systems. However, though the laws are clear, many companies are at risk of costly litigation, negative press, brand damage, and more due to the lack of knowledge or adherence to legal requirements. In this 60 minute webinar, we will debunk many of the myths regarding accessibility, including: What it means to have usable and compliant websites and apps. How to properly test and certify digital properties. How to track the governance and business compliance. The common elements of a demand letter and lawsuits and how to settle legal actions. How to mitigate risk before legal action:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/7916415732492/WN_IFkIR-ywS4-j1-uiL7R_mA
4) Foundations of Duxbury | APH
January 31st 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Where to start with Duxbury Braille Translator (DBT)? We start with the program's nuts and bolts. We will clearly explain the inner workings of DBT, and how you can get it to purr ... or quack ... happily for you:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_S1R5NxubRxKA4TKRy3-gUA
5) Washington Seminar Career Fair | NFB
February 7th 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | The National Federation of the Blind will hold the 2022 Washington Seminar Career Fair virtually on Monday, February 7, 2022 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. eastern. Connect with diverse and dynamic employers and job seekers from across the United States. This event is organized by the National Federation of the Blind Employee Committee. The NFB Employment Committee runs employment activities during the year. It is our goal to bring employers who are interested in hiring blind people in contact with blind people who are looking for employment. We do seminars and other activities to help blind job seekers develop interviewing and other skills. We also help answer employer questions about hiring blind people. Registration open. Register by January 25, 2022, 8 p.m. eastern time:
https://nfb.org/programs-services/advocacy/washington-seminar/washington-seminar-career-fair
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) Jaw Muscles: A Guide to Increased Productivity Using JAWS for Windows | Hartgen Consultancy
February 14th 2022 | While many people can use computing applications with the keyboard at a basic level, we want to kick your screen-reading skills into shape. We'll show you plenty of strategies you probably didn't know about. Once you've completed our new training course, you will be able to show everyone your screen-reading muscles! Course Delivery: Jaw Muscles will commence week beginning Monday 14 February 2022 and weekly thereafter. The cost of the course is £50 which is currently 68 US dollars. Purchase JAW Muscles Online. While it is by no means a requirement for course participation, we are offering an additional package if you do not have our Leasey product. One of the main advantages of Leasey is to add even more productivity tools to those already available within JAWS and this year, we intend to add even more of these. JAW Muscles with Leasey is available at a substantially reduced rate for a combined total of £80 which is approximately $108 US. Purchase Jaw Muscles With Leasey Online. Alternatively, anyone can purchase either package by sending an email to jaws@hartgen.org 📧️, whereupon a fully accessible electronic invoice will be sent to you which can be paid through PayPal or any major credit or debit card.
8) Prep and Proof Word Documents Using Track Changes and Comments with JAWS | Freedom Scientific
February 17th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Track Changes is a feature in Microsoft Word that allows you to view changes made to a document by you or other users. Comments in a Word document provide information from reviewers or collaborators without altering the document's text. This feature is great for asking questions or making suggestions. Join us on Thursday, February 17, 2022, at noon Eastern Time as we describe and demonstrate how to use the Track Changes and Comments features in Word. We'll show you how to: Turn on and navigate Track Changes. Accept or reject changes. Keep Track Changes turned on. Add and read comments. Reply to comments. Register:
https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_yu1HjdDGSjO06bQ-lGxM9w
9) Taking Your Accessibility Statement To The Next Level
February 24th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | The accessibility statement is a familiar public expression of an organization's commitment to digital accessibility. In the European Union, legislation mandates public organizations provide a web accessibility statement in a particular format. Elsewhere, accessibility statements are often limited to a generic and vague expression of a future ideal, or present overly detailed technical information (which can quickly becomes dated and inaccurate). But they can be so much more. Join David Sloan, head of UX at TPGi and a 20-year accessibility veteran, in an exploration on how your organization can take advantage of the many opportunities an effective accessibility statement or microsite can bring to your accessibility efforts. For example, you can use it to: Describe accessibility features you provide. Effectively report on your progress and plans. Provide a trusted communication channel for people with disabilities. We'll also look at strategies for managing your accessibility statement content as it evolves over time. Don't pass up this exciting chance to learn how you can take advantage of an accessibility statement's possibilities. If you are using Internet Explorer and have cookies disabled (either via privacy mode or decline cookies on the website), you may not be able to register through this form. If you are still unable to register, please email ida@tpgi.com 📧️ with your name and contact information. Ida will arrange the registration on your behalf:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-february-24-at-12pm-et-taking-your-accessibility-statement-to-the-next-level/
10) Breast Cancer Webinar for Women Who Are Blind | Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind
February 25th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | On February 25, 2022, please join Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind as we discuss accessible breast cancer information, detection and prevention for blind women and their families with these expert presenters: Dr. Kim Kubek, MD: Pennsylvania Diagnostic Breast Cancer Center and https://www.breastcancer.org/. Dr. Kristen Capece, PharmD, BCGP: Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind. Dr. Jill Lykon, PharmD, BCOP: University of Miami Hospital. Agenda: 12:00 - Welcome. 12:05 - Dr. Kim Kubek: Breast Cancer Overview and How to Self-Exam. 12:50 - American Cancer Society: Accessible Cancer Resources. 1:00 - Dr. Kristen Capece: Cancer Medications. 1:15 - Dr. Jill Lykon: Impact of Chemotherapy on Medication and Diabetes. This webinar will have captioning and a live ASL interpreter. Eligible attendees can receive CE credit for participating. If you are unable to attend, still be sure to register to receive access to the webinar audio and video after the event, as well as an audio description of a breast self-exam for women who are blind or have low vision:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_caNB11QmS4a4KjJyBnZWwQ
11) Virtual Assistive Technology Expo | School of Medicine Columbia | University of South Carolina
March 1st 2022 | 5:30AM PT, 6:30AM MT, 7:30AM CT, 8:30AM ET, 1:30 PM GMT | Join us March 1, 2022 for a full day of fast-paced sessions showcasing the latest assistive technology for people with a wide range of disabilities. This year's expo will be presented virtually and two $50 gift cards will be given away after each session so register today:
https://www.sc.edu/study/colleges_schools/medicine/centers_and_institutes_new/center_for_disability_resources/assistive_technology/expo/index.php
12) Accommodation Solutions for Executive Functioning Deficits | AskJan
March 10 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | Executive functions are high-level mental processes or abilities that influence and direct more basic abilities like attention and memory. Join JAN Cognitive/Neurological Team consultants Melanie Whetzel and Alexis Popa for a discussion about accommodation solutions that address limitations affecting attention, time management, memory, hyperactivity/impulsivity, and getting to work on time. This training will be a live question and answer session but will include JAN accommodation examples to prompt thinking about the topics and generate questions about the difficulties you or your employees are experiencing on the job that involve attention, meeting deadlines, productivity standards, and more:
https://askjan.org/events/index.cfm?calview=eventdetails&dtid=8915ADD3-BF08-73CC-570AFACA27FE7DCE
13) Screen Reader User Tester Training Program | Carroll Center for the Blind | Become a Screen Reader User Tester and Launch Your Career in Digital Accessibility
March 14th 2022 | Want to break into the field of digital accessibility as a screen reader user tester? A new session of the Carroll Center for the Blind's popular 7-week, face-to-face Screen Reader User Tester Training program starts on March 14, 2022. Come learn and grow your ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers during this intensive training program. If you're interested in gaining the foundation to develop a solid career path in the digital accessibility field while making a difference as a screen reader user tester, reach out today. Spots are filling up fast! To learn more, visit the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program page at: https://carroll.org/screen-reader-user-tester-training-program/. To apply, please reach out to the admissions team at the Carroll Center by emailing admissions@carroll.org 📧️ or by calling (617) 969-6200 📱️, extension 216.
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/
15) 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 App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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: APH ConnectCenter
➜ VisionAware Resources: The Reader's Digest Getting Started Guide to Vision Loss
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
➜ 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/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
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)
➜ Coding is Easy and Accessible with Colby the Code & Go Robot Mouse
Code & Go Mouse introduces coding concepts and tactile graphics as users program Colby to race through a maze toward the cheese. Colby lights-up, makes sounds, and features two speeds along with colorful buttons for easy programming and sequencing.
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 You in 2022!
(1) New protective hands-free leather pouch for larger phones Pro and Pro Max and Android) 5 by 8 inches; 4 compartments; $30. (2) New single-ear headphone design with easy to locate buttons and all day comfort: $45. (3) Talking Medical Bundle Sale - (infrared thermometer, BP unit with cuff, and oximeter, ending Jan. 31: $130. (4) Many new leather bag styles for laptops, tablets, and Braille displays. Call Barry at (617) 969-7500 📱️ | bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️ or Kae at (781) 286-1696 📱️ | guidelightdogs@gmail.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
➜ 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
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
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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
The DannyBoy Portable Stand holds your Smart Phone stationary so it's camera can view items and documents clearly providing stability for excellent recognition & clarity. Take perfect pictures and scan images. Read documents quickly and easily. Great for anyone with motor disabilities, too! Made with the Blind In Mind! Lightweight & Portable. Ready To Use or Collapses In Seconds. Read All About the DannyBoy Portable Stand at DannyBoy.com in BlindMiceMegaMall.com at:
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
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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
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.
Your Name Here
0 of 12 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 0 of 12 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, January 20, 2022 - Volume 842
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.
Subscribers: 6,977 opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email.
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.) The Best of CES 2022 | Wired (7.1% of all clicks.)
https://www.wired.com/story/best-of-ces-2022/
B.) How I Have Sex: 'With My [Visual] Disability, I Can't Sense What My Partner Wants — They Have to Say It' (5.7% of all clicks.)
https://theswaddle.com/how-i-have-sex-with-my-visual-disability-i-cant-see-cues-about-what-my-partner-wants-they-have-to-voice-it/
C.) Microsoft 365 Update Will Make Sure No One Is At A Disadvantage (5.5% of all clicks.)
https://www.techradar.com/news/microsoft-365-update-will-make-sure-no-one-is-at-a-disadvantage
D.) AI Co-Pilot For Blind And Visually Impaired Demonstrated At CES (4.3% of all clicks.)
https://www.med-technews.com/news/ai-and-vr-in-healthcare/ai-co-pilot-for-blind-and-visually-impaired-demonstrated-at-/
E.) Love Is Blind: Woman Lists 5 Good Things About Being In A Relationship With A Blind Person (3.9% of all clicks.)
https://www.gentside.co.uk/viral/5-reasons-to-date-blind-person_art8915.html
2) Accessready.org And Top Tech Tidbits Announce Their Partnership to Provide Current Assistive Technology News and Trends to Their Joint Readership
Beginning January 17th, 2022, AccessReady.org, which publishes the daily Access Ready Monitor news wire, as well as the monthly Access Ready Reporter newsletter, will begin providing its readers with current news and trends in access technology sponsored by Top Tech Tidbits. These updates will provide AccessReady readers with all Tidbits newsletter information, including each issue's sponsored advertisements. In turn, beginning in January 2022, Top Tech Tidbits will begin including a link to the monthly Access Ready Reporter newsletter within its closest weekly issue, providing its 6,900 weekly subscribers with new and current information that spans the disability spectrum, from advocacy to healthcare to government and more. We're all very excited. Learn more about the partnership here:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/51.html
3) Hey Alexa
A) Each month you can listen to a free Audible title. Just say, "Alexa, what's free from Audible?"
B) Alexa has introduced a new service to help you care for the ones you love. And right now you can enjoy 6 months for free. Just say, "Alexa, introduce me to Alexa Together."
C) Choose the speaking rate that's right for you. Just say, "Alexa, speak faster." You can also say, "Alexa, speak slower." To reset, just say "Alexa, reset the speaking speed." to return to the default speaking rate.
4) Stop Using Safari Immediately (at Least for Now)
Extreme advice? Perhaps. You be the judge. A newly identified unpatched security flaw now makes Safari a risky web browser on Mac, iPhone, and iPad:
https://lifehacker.com/stop-using-safari-immediately-at-least-for-now-1848384461
5) A Bug in iOS 15 Is Leaking User Browsing Activity in Real Time | Wired
Apple has known about the vulnerability, which also affects iPadOS 15 and Safari 15, since late November 2021:
https://www.wired.com/story/ios-15-bug-leaking-user-browsing-activity-in-real-time/
6) Now You Can Play The Popular Game Wordle With A Screen Reader
Thanks to blind Bargains and Hai Nguyen Ly for this, you can now play Wordle and view attempts with a screen reader:
https://www.blindbargains.com/bargains.php?m=22165
7) Biped's Smart Harness Helps Visually Impaired People Avoid Obstacles While Walking
While we know that we have written about this device in previous issues, last Saturday we got to try it out for ourselves and we think the device has promise:
https://www.dezeen.com/2022/01/14/biped-smart-harness-visually-impaired-obstacles-ces-2022/
8) Revisiting Why Hyperlinks Are Blue
This blog post from Mozilla explains the origins of the blue hyperlink and is an excellent piece of internet history:
https://blog.mozilla.org/en/internet-culture/why-are-hyperlinks-blue-revisited/
9) Assistive Tech Startup Led By Former NASA Engineer Uses An AI 'Parrot' To Help People With Disabilities
This article from GeekWire describes Parrot, a device to assist people with mobility disabilities:
https://www.geekwire.com/2022/assistive-tech-startup-led-by-former-nasa-engineer-uses-an-ai-parrot-to-help-people-with-disabilities/
10) Making Data Visualizations More Accessible
This, from MIT, is a study on what types of text descriptions for data visualizations are most useful for blind readers:
https://news.mit.edu/2021/data-visualizations-accessible-blind-1012
11) Thorium Reader
Thorium is an accessible e-book reader available on Mac and PC that we began using a couple of days ago to read e-pub material on the Mac and on PC:
https://www.edrlab.org/software/thorium-reader/
12) Windows 11 with JAWS, Lesson 9 | dSurf
In lesson nine of the Windows 11 with JAWS series we learn about the Settings app in Windows 11 and its new design. Learn about different control types such as lists, radio buttons, time picker buttons, slider controls, breadcrumb buttons, expanded vs. collapsed states, and more. A brief discussion of the new Accessibility settings is also included. In this lesson you learn how to: List at least two ways to open the Settings app in Windows 11. Navigate through the different settings categories and within the individual settings for each category. Move quickly back to the Search edit box from anywhere in the settings screens. Move back to the prior Settings page after moving forward one or more pages. Use Windows Settings to enable or disable Bluetooth on your device. Discuss the changes to Accessibility settings. List the keystroke to instantly open Windows Accessibility settings. Use distinct types of controls found in the app, such as unique radio buttons and time picker buttons. Use lists for navigation, both vertical and horizontal. Understand the difference between controls with expanded or collapsed states and how to toggle between them when encountered. Video Heading Times (14 headings): [01:21] Changes to Settings in Windows 11. [01:56] Opening the Windows Settings App. [04:53] Bluetooth Settings. [06:34] Controls and States in the Windows Settings App. [07:47] Lists or List Boxes. [08:29] Vertical List Example. [10:02] Horizontal List Example. [12:01] Visual Indicators vs. "More" Buttons. [17:31] Radio Buttons. [20:40] Time Picker Buttons. [25:43] Expanded vs. Collapsed States. [27:59] Slider Controls. [30:28] Breadcrumb Buttons. [32:07] Accessibility. #Windows11 #JAWS #education #training.
Web: https://dsurf.net/windows-11-training/the-settings-app-in-windows-11/
YouTube: https://youtu.be/W97sZFJoswA
13) Top Tech Tidbits Launches Blind And Visually Impaired Technology App Directory
To the many readers that have requested this Directory for such a very long time we sincerely apologize that it has taken us this long to implement, but we're very excited to announce that it is now live. It has only one listing currently, so please help us to keep readers informed as to exactly which apps they should be using. And why. Submission is easy. Just fill out a short form and if approved the app will be added to the new Directory within 24 hours. In order for your submission to be included within this new Directory it must be approved by at least 2 out of 3 Tidbits Editors. Our editors consider app metrics such as App Store ratings as well as number of downloads, installs, and/or active users, but above all they vote based on its usefulness to the blind, low vision, deaf, deafblind and/or disabled community:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
14) JAWS Power Tip: Turning On and Off Announcements of Grammatical Errors
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/52.html
XX) Apple Support Claims iPhone 13 Doesn't Support Phone Noise Cancellation
Apple support has confirmed that the iPhone 13 lineup does not support Phone Noise Cancellation, even though it is supported on older iPhones:
https://www.imore.com/apple-support-claims-iphone-13-doesnt-support-phone-noise-cancellation
15) The Tech Juggernaut (TTJ) YouTube Playlist | Fall 2021 iPhone and iOS 15 Operating System Videos
The TTJ instructor team walks you through the new and improved features of iOS and Voiceover. Starting from the basics, and then showing you some advanced features you may not know about:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOefEEZcxAG_rXonH0RMoGSDO4n-Hjs-f
16) Project Rainbow at Pactera EDGE Seeks Persons Who Live With Vision Loss or Blindness, Hearing Impairment or Deafness, or a Speech Impairment
We are making AI more inclusive for everyone! We are looking for people who live with vision loss or blindness, hearing impairment or deafness, or a speech impairment to send 25-50 pictures and 1 short video following our guidelines. Your contribution will help the development of Artificial Intelligence, moving towards a much more accessible world! Please sign up today if you are interested or share the info with your friends! This is a paid study and can be done remotely. The images collected will be used for training purposes only in machine learning. If you'd like to apply, please email: recruitment@pacteraedge.com 📧️. Remember to mention Rainbow in the subject line and let us know where you saw the post:
https://knowledgebase.oneforma.com/?page_id=3217
17) Apple AirTags: Low Vision Series | Hadley Workshops
Finding misplaced items just got a whole lot easier with AirTags. Learn how to set up and get the most out of these handy tools with these 3 workshops: 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
18) Best Smart Plug For Google Home And Alexa 2022
Not every device in your home needs to be smart, but you can stay in control with one of the best smart plugs for Google Home and Alexa:
https://www.androidcentral.com/best-smart-plugs-alexa-google-home
19) Inventhelp Develops Playing Card Technology For Blind And Visually Impaired
An inventor has developed technology that can help blind and visually impaired individuals identify playing cards, through a card reader with embedded speakers. The creator, from Justice, Illinois, submitted their invention proposal through the InventNow platform, which was established in 1984 to help budding inventors formulate ideas before applying for patents and then releasing them to market:
https://www.gamblinginsider.com/news/14576/inventhelp-develops-playing-card-technology-for-blind-and-visually-impaired
20) Comcast Tests The First Multigigabit Cable Modem
Whether or not you'll get full use of that bandwidth however is another matter entirely:
https://www.engadget.com/comcast-10gbps-multigigabit-cable-modem-test-150001003.html?src=rss
21) 20 Cool Google Tricks to Search More Effectively
Google is straightforward to use. You can type just about anything into the search bar and expect useful results. However, you can take control of how Google conducts its searches to increase the chances that you'll find what you're looking for in fewer steps and with better accuracy. Master these Google search tricks, and you'll save yourself a ton of time and frustration in the future:
https://helpdeskgeek.com/how-to/20-cool-google-tricks-to-search-more-effectively/
22) Wi-Fi 6: Everything You Need To Know
New Wi-Fi is here in the form of Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E. Are you ready?
https://www.windowscentral.com/wi-fi-6-everything-you-need-know
23) Aira Announces RSS Feed
Aira Tech Corp. now has an RSS feed on its web site to deliver news about new Access Network partners, changes to their app and service, and interesting blog posts. You can add them to your RSS reader at:
http://aira.io/feed
24) Intel and GoodMaps Collaborate to Improve Indoor Mapping Technology
As part of the Intel RISE Technology Initiative (IRTI), GoodMaps is collaborating with Intel to deliver a high-quality indoor wayfinding solution for all, with special emphasis on improving indoor navigation for people including those who are blind or low vision, mobility impaired, and deaf or hard of hearing:
https://www.goodmaps.com/news/intel
25) Please, Touch the Artwork is Coming to iOS, Android, and Steam on January 26th 2022
Please, Touch the Artwork, the award-winning title from Thomas Waterzooi, is coming to both iOS and Android devices (and on Steam) this January 26th 2022. The narrative puzzle game features a zen experience made possible through a jazzy soundtrack and stunning visuals, and the only way you can succeed in the game is, of course, to touch the artwork. Please, Touch the Artwork lets players explore the ins and outs (and hidden stories) of paintings over 150 puzzles. A Nintendo Switch release is also planned for later this year, and you can pre-order the game now on the iOS App Store for a special discounted rate (20% off):
https://www.pocketgamer.com/please-touch-the-artwork/ios-android-and-steam-on-january-26th/
26) How To Uninstall Programs That Won't Uninstall on Windows 10
You try to remove a program, but that program won't uninstall on your Windows 10 PC. This happens for various reasons, some of which are not related to the program but rather your system. Luckily, you can fix most uninstall issues by following simple procedures. You'll then be able to delete your programs like you usually do:
https://helpdeskgeek.com/windows-10/how-to-uninstall-programs-that-wont-uninstall-on-windows-10/
27) 7 Ways to Make Your E-Commerce Site More Accessible to Consumers With Disabilities
Twenty-six percent of Americans live with a disability, accounting for $490 billion in disposable income every year. These consumers want to discover products, learn more about them, and purchase easily, rights guaranteed by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA):
https://www.mytotalretail.com/article/7-ways-to-make-your-e-commerce-site-more-accessible-to-consumers-with-disabilities/
28) FDA Approves Cochlear Nucleus Implants for Unilateral Hearing Loss/Single-Sided Deafness
Cochlear Limited (ASX: COH), a global leader in implantable hearing solutions, obtained U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of CochlearTM Nucleus® Implants for the treatment of unilateral hearing loss (UHL)/single-sided deafness (SSD). Cochlear implants are already FDA approved for those with moderate to profound bilateral sensorineural hearing loss. With this approval, for the first time Cochlear can expand implantable treatment options for those with UHL/SSD to include cochlear implants:
https://hearinghealthmatters.org/hearingnewswatch/2022/fda-approves-cochlear-nucleus-unilateral-hearing-loss-ssd/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) Tabletop RPG Rule Books Can Be Beautiful and Accessible | Wired
Role-playing rule books are being designed to be more experimental and unique. Here's how they can be designed for accessibility, too:
https://www.wired.com/story/ttrpg-accessible-design/
2) I'm Going Blind. Somebody's Got to Help Me.
Julia Lefelar didn't know what else to do. She had been taking antibiotics for a sinus infection, but seemed to be getting sicker. Her eyes hurt, her vision was dimming by the hour, and she had been unable to snag an appointment with her ear, nose and throat specialist. So Lefelar drove to the office of the ophthalmologist she had seen several years earlier for routine care and pleaded with the startled receptionist: 'I'm going blind. Somebody's got to help me:'
https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/medical-mysteries/medical-mystery-eye-pain-dimming-vision/2022/01/14/0924917e-55e8-11ec-929e-95502bf8cdd5_story.html
3) Bionic Eyes Will Allow The Blind To See
The Phoenix99 Bionic Eye is an implantable system designed to restore a form of vision to patients living with severe vision impairment and blindness:
https://www.ameinfo.com/tech-and-mobility/bionic-eyes-will-allow-the-blind-to-see/
4) How The Australian Open Is Being Made Accessible For The Blind
Action Audio was developed by Tennis Australia, Monash University and the design and innovation company AKQA. The tool takes visual, spatial data from the tennis court and converts it into audio. Taking their cue from blind tennis, in which a tennis ball often contains beads to make it rattle or jingle, Action Audio uses different sounds to represent different elements of the game:
https://bbg.life/index.php/2022/01/14/how-the-australian-open-is-being-made-accessible-for-the-blind/
5) Can A New Online Learning Platform Improve Employment For Those With Visual Impairment?
Despite being capable of working a variety of jobs, people who are blind or visually impaired tend to have low job placement rates, low salaries and an unusually high underemployment rate. But some advocates say that more-accessible tech platforms could be a key to changing that:
https://www.edsurge.com/news/2022-01-14-can-a-new-online-learning-platform-improve-employment-for-those-with-visual-impairment
6) How AI Is Being Used To Improve Disability Employment
Sammy was diagnosed with Autism at a young age. I first met him through his Microsoft internship application and followed him on his path to becoming a full-time employee. Sammy is not his real name, but his experience is very real. Like many people with a disability, he has felt excluded from society at times, first at school when he wanted to help fellow students with autism, but the administration discouraged him from doing so because of his disability. As he grew up, he worried these imposed limitations would carry over into employment, so he learned to mask his disability to avoid the stigma he might encounter in job interviews:
https://blogs.microsoft.com/accessibility/how-ai-is-being-used-to-improve-disability-employment/
7) California's Disability Community Doesn't Need More Tech. We Need Less Discrimination
I'm frequently asked about the latest disability technology being covered in the media. People expect me, as a blind person, to share their excitement about such innovations. Most find my frustration and lack of enthusiasm perplexing. They don't understand that in the excitement that accompanies supposed technological solutions for the disability community, the true problem — ableism — is often overlooked:
https://www.sacbee.com/opinion/op-ed/article256043442.html
8) Covid-19 Home Tests Pose Accessibility Problems for People With Disabilities
When Chancey Fleet, a blind technology educator, opened an at-home Covid-19 testing kit earlier this winter, she realized it would require vision to use the product correctly. Ms. Fleet completed the test with the help of her husband, who is sighted, and said she initially brushed off the experience as a personal inconvenience. But she changed her thinking when she thought of the many people who are blind and lack access to a sighted person who can help them. Her critique of Covid-19 tests' accessibility on Twitter went viral:
https://www.wsj.com/articles/covid-19-home-tests-pose-accessibility-problems-for-people-with-disabilities-11642096771
9) How Technology Is Changing Being Blind In The Digital Age
January is National Braille Literacy Month. The New York State Commission for the Blind says braille literacy is decreasing because of fewer trained instructors, and with more school age students being educated in their own communities instead of schools specifically for the blind. Educators from the nonprofit Visually Impaired Advancement say technology also plays a bigger role in the lives of those who are visually impaired:
https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nys/buffalo/news/2022/01/13/how-technology-is-changing-being-blind-in-the-digital-age
10) Moovit Powers Public-Transport Independence For The Blind
Partnership with WeWALK enables vision-impaired Moovit app users anywhere to get real-time bus and train information, navigation guidance:
https://www.israel21c.org/moovit-powers-public-transport-independence-for-the-blind/
11) Local Puppy Raisers Help Train Dogs To Make Life Easier For Visually Impaired | Fox8
A plane full of pups. Admit it, when you read that sentence, it instantly brought a smile to your face. Even though it may look like one of them is flying the plane, they're not that smart. But given some time, they will do something even better than looking adorable in the cockpit. They'll give a person who is sight impaired a chance to be mobile again:
https://fox8.com/news/local-puppy-raisers-help-train-dogs-to-make-life-easier-for-visually-impaired/
12) Matt Mrazik '20: Concentrating on Game Design
Matt's game for visually impaired individuals highlights a novel approach to accessibility in game development:
https://www.umassd.edu/engineering/features/matt-mrazik-designs-game-for-visually-impaired.html
13) Blind Community Reveals Challenges With At-Home Testing, Calls For Changes | YouTube | WJZ
The National Federation of the Blind, a Baltimore-based nonprofit, wants to see improved accessibility in at-home COVID-19 testing:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qmx8LBCpPgA
14) Motherwell Teenager With Sight Loss Hails Braille Over Technology
A Motherwell teenager who has sight loss has championed Braille on the occasion that marks the birth of its inventor:
https://www.glasgowworld.com/education/motherwell-teenager-with-sight-loss-hails-braille-over-technology-3524018
15) How A Miami School Helps Kids With A Visual Impairment See Better And Improve Skills
Unlike other visual impairments, CVI isn't caused by damage to the eyes, but rather an injury to the part of the brain that processes vision. Kids with CVI can have difficulties recognizing and understanding what they're seeing:
https://www.miamiherald.com/living/health-fitness/article257123737.html
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Blind Android Users 58 | Get Hold of That Finance
January 15th 2022 | This week, it is all about organising your finances with Android. We demo Google Pay, PayPal, NatWest Bank, and Metro Bank apps. In our spotlight segment we are joined for an interview by Silvia Van Os, developer of the Raise to Answer app that lets you just answer a call by holding your phone to your ear. in our app of the week segment, our frequent contributor, Kareen Kiwan demos ADB App Control. To listen to the podcast, please visit:
https://blindandroidusers.com/category/bauposts/shownotes/
2) The DM Series: DM86 - It Was A Big Deal When Michael Wore Pants
January 18th 2022 | We started this episode out talking about the DM Series New Year show. Give it a listen to let us know your thoughts! This then transitioned into a follow-up on Damashe's shortcut he talked about in (dm85). Damashe asked Michael how his experience with Onenote was. We talked about Michael telling Damashe Thomas He was right. Damashe talked about his experience with doing a factory reset on his phone, and his phone setup! Michael shares a notification he got on his phone taking us into a conversation about Time Tracking with Focus Modes. We then discuss about how both of us are using Toggle and Timery. Briefly we mentioned our watch setup! We close this episode out talking about Google workspace and alternative options:
https://yourownpay.com/dm86-it-was-a-big-deal-when-michael-wore-pants/
3) Eyes on Success 2203 Inspire Low Vision Aid
January 19th 2022 | Inspire is a lightweight headset that enables people with low vision to make the most use of the vision that they have. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Brian Murphey, sales manager from IrisVision, about this digital eyewear system and how it can be used in daily life. They also demonstrate various functions of the device:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202023.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) Best Practices for Cognitive Evaluation of Students with Visual Impairment | APH
January 20th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | When appropriate practices are followed, cognitive testing of individuals who are blind and visually impaired provides useful and valuable information to test-takers, their families, instructors, and other decision makers. Join this webinar to examine guidelines for intelligence testing and review important concepts which guide all formal evaluations for students with Visual Impairments:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_PDlvJHUYQfOPOHUCOY9jFg
2) ABLE Accounts: A Financial Planning Tool for People with Disabilities and their Families | Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled
January 20th 2022 | 3:30PM PT, 4:30PM MT, 5:30PM CT, 6:30PM ET, 11:30 PM GMT | Join us to learn about the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act and how a Maryland ABLE account can help people who are blind, those with low vision, and other qualifying disabilities to save and invest for the future without jeopardizing federal, state, and local benefits such as SSI and Medicaid. Attendees will learn about the enrollment process, tax-advantaged savings, and investment options, how to use the ABLE account to pay for qualified disability-related expenses, and the account management process. No registration is needed:
https://join.freeconferencecall.com/mdlbpd
3) 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
4) Slate and Stylus 101 | APH
January 21st 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | One of the important tools used by many adults who are blind is the slate and stylus, which allows for a quick method to jot down grocery lists, telephone numbers, and love notes. Join this webinar and learn how to load the slate with paper, acquire the language used to teach students how to create alphabet letters, and write names and numbers using the slate and stylus. Amount of Time: 90 minutes:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_k7tiKuJZSk-9rIxx5_Z0zA
5) Fearless Interviewing for Blind Job Seekers Seminar (CC Available)
January 24th 2022 | 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 12AM GMT on 1/18| 7:00 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. eastern time via Zoom. Please join the National Federation of the Blind on Monday, January 17 to learn more about Zoom before the 2022 career fair. Closed captions and the 1CapApp will be available. Meeting ID: 975 2358 8063 | One tap mobile: +13126266799,,97523588063# US | 1CapApp Link: https://ECS.1capapp.com/event/nfb. Join the January 24 Zoom Meeting:
https://zoom.us/j/97523588063
6) The Marketer's Guide to Accessibility | TPGi
January 25th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | As a marketer, you spend substantial time and effort building content and crafting messaging to convince individuals that your company can satisfy their needs. But imagine if 20% of your audience ignored everything you created - not because they weren't interested, but because they were unable to access it. This is exactly what happens when your digital content is not accessible to people with disabilities.
Understanding and delivering accessible digital content is a critical skill to have in your marketing toolkit. During this webinar you'll learn best practices for digital accessibility that touch on a variety of platforms, types of content, and even how to deal with third-party vendors. You'll leave with easy, effective methods for improving and testing the accessibility of your website and marketing content. Don't miss your chance to broaden your target market and lower your risk - register today! Unable to register? If you are using Internet Explorer and have cookies disabled (either via privacy mode or decline cookies on the website), you may not be able to register through this form. If you are still unable to register, please email ida@tpgi.com 📧️ with your name and contact information. Ida will arrange the registration on your behalf:
https://www.tpgi.com/anuary-25-at-12pm-et-the-marketers-guide-to-accessibility/
7) The Difference in Smart Speakers | Michael Babcock, Sight Loss Instructor with The Hull Foundation and Learning Center
January 25th 2022 | 1PM PT, 2PM MT, 3PM CT, 4PM ET, 9PM GMT | In this one hour session, Michael Babcock, Sight Loss Instructor with The Hull Foundation and Learning Center will be talking with us about the different smart speakers in the market and what each of them can and cannot do. We know it can be confusing trying to figure out which one you should get, and everyone seems to have one or the other period Michael will help you with understanding the differences in each smart speaker ecosystem, and share with you the different types of speakers available with each assistant. Our January Zoom meetings have something for everyone and are full of interesting topics that can assist you in your everyday life. Bring a friend or spouse! Sighted or not! If you would like to sign up to receive a weekly email with the Zoom schedule for the week and the links to the meetings, please email the office at oralhull@gmail.com 📧️ or call us at (503) 668-6195 📱️:
https://oralhull.org/my-calendar-2/
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) Using a Team Approach in Evaluating Students with Visual Impairments Using the Woodcock-Johnson IV Braille Adaptation | APH
January 27th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Psychologists and diagnosticians trained in using the Woodcock-Johnson IV rarely have the knowledge and experience necessary to validly evaluate students with visual impairments who use braille. Join this webinar to learn how to be a valuable team member in administering and scoring the tests and in interpreting the results:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_na8C0sOIS7CUpeLKsNDLfQ
10) Accessibility Compliance and Risk Mitigation Tactics | TBase Communications, CommonLook and Accessible 360
January 27th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | As legislation evolves, many organizations are unaware that providing accessible technology is not a choice — it is now the law. These laws define the civil rights of those with disabilities and ensure equitable access across websites, apps, and internal systems. However, though the laws are clear, many companies are at risk of costly litigation, negative press, brand damage, and more due to the lack of knowledge or adherence to legal requirements. In this 60 minute webinar, we will debunk many of the myths regarding accessibility, including: What it means to have usable and compliant websites and apps. How to properly test and certify digital properties. How to track the governance and business compliance. The common elements of a demand letter and lawsuits and how to settle legal actions. How to mitigate risk before legal action:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/7916415732492/WN_IFkIR-ywS4-j1-uiL7R_mA
11) Foundations of Duxbury | APH
January 31st 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Where to start with Duxbury Braille Translator (DBT)? We start with the program's nuts and bolts. We will clearly explain the inner workings of DBT, and how you can get it to purr ... or quack ... happily for you:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_S1R5NxubRxKA4TKRy3-gUA
12) Washington Seminar Career Fair | NFB
February 7th 2022 | 8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT | The National Federation of the Blind will hold the 2022 Washington Seminar Career Fair virtually on Monday, February 7, 2022 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. eastern. Connect with diverse and dynamic employers and job seekers from across the United States. This event is organized by the National Federation of the Blind Employee Committee. The NFB Employment Committee runs employment activities during the year. It is our goal to bring employers who are interested in hiring blind people in contact with blind people who are looking for employment. We do seminars and other activities to help blind job seekers develop interviewing and other skills. We also help answer employer questions about hiring blind people. Registration open. Register by January 25, 2022, 8 p.m. eastern time:
https://nfb.org/programs-services/advocacy/washington-seminar/washington-seminar-career-fair
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) Jaw Muscles: A Guide to Increased Productivity Using JAWS for Windows | Hartgen Consultancy
February 14th 2022 | While many people can use computing applications with the keyboard at a basic level, we want to kick your screen-reading skills into shape. We'll show you plenty of strategies you probably didn't know about. Once you've completed our new training course, you will be able to show everyone your screen-reading muscles! Course Delivery: Jaw Muscles will commence week beginning Monday 14 February 2022 and weekly thereafter. The cost of the course is £50 which is currently 68 US dollars. Purchase JAW Muscles Online. While it is by no means a requirement for course participation, we are offering an additional package if you do not have our Leasey product. One of the main advantages of Leasey is to add even more productivity tools to those already available within JAWS and this year, we intend to add even more of these. JAW Muscles with Leasey is available at a substantially reduced rate for a combined total of £80 which is approximately $108 US. Purchase Jaw Muscles With Leasey Online. Alternatively, anyone can purchase either package by sending an email to jaws@hartgen.org 📧️, whereupon a fully accessible electronic invoice will be sent to you which can be paid through PayPal or any major credit or debit card.
15) Breast Cancer Webinar for Women Who Are Blind | Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind
February 25th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | On February 25, 2022, please join Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind as we discuss accessible breast cancer information, detection and prevention for blind women and their families with these expert presenters: Dr. Kim Kubek, MD: Pennsylvania Diagnostic Breast Cancer Center and https://www.breastcancer.org/. Dr. Kristen Capece, PharmD, BCGP: Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind. Dr. Jill Lykon, PharmD, BCOP: University of Miami Hospital. Agenda: 12:00 - Welcome. 12:05 - Dr. Kim Kubek: Breast Cancer Overview and How to Self-Exam. 12:50 - American Cancer Society: Accessible Cancer Resources. 1:00 - Dr. Kristen Capece: Cancer Medications. 1:15 - Dr. Jill Lykon: Impact of Chemotherapy on Medication and Diabetes. This webinar will have captioning and a live ASL interpreter. Eligible attendees can receive CE credit for participating. If you are unable to attend, still be sure to register to receive access to the webinar audio and video after the event, as well as an audio description of a breast self-exam for women who are blind or have low vision:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_caNB11QmS4a4KjJyBnZWwQ
16) Virtual Assistive Technology Expo | School of Medicine Columbia | University of South Carolina
March 1st 2022 | 5:30AM PT, 6:30AM MT, 7:30AM CT, 8:30AM ET, 1:30 PM GMT | Join us March 1, 2022 for a full day of fast-paced sessions showcasing the latest assistive technology for people with a wide range of disabilities. This year's expo will be presented virtually and two $50 gift cards will be given away after each session so register today:
https://www.sc.edu/study/colleges_schools/medicine/centers_and_institutes_new/center_for_disability_resources/assistive_technology/expo/index.php
17) Accommodation Solutions for Executive Functioning Deficits | AskJan
March 10 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | Executive functions are high-level mental processes or abilities that influence and direct more basic abilities like attention and memory. Join JAN Cognitive/Neurological Team consultants Melanie Whetzel and Alexis Popa for a discussion about accommodation solutions that address limitations affecting attention, time management, memory, hyperactivity/impulsivity, and getting to work on time. This training will be a live question and answer session but will include JAN accommodation examples to prompt thinking about the topics and generate questions about the difficulties you or your employees are experiencing on the job that involve attention, meeting deadlines, productivity standards, and more:
https://askjan.org/events/index.cfm?calview=eventdetails&dtid=8915ADD3-BF08-73CC-570AFACA27FE7DCE
18) Screen Reader User Tester Training Program | Carroll Center for the Blind | Become a Screen Reader User Tester and Launch Your Career in Digital Accessibility
March 14th 2022 | Want to break into the field of digital accessibility as a screen reader user tester? A new session of the Carroll Center for the Blind's popular 7-week, face-to-face Screen Reader User Tester Training program starts on March 14, 2022. Come learn and grow your ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers during this intensive training program. If you're interested in gaining the foundation to develop a solid career path in the digital accessibility field while making a difference as a screen reader user tester, reach out today. Spots are filling up fast! To learn more, visit the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program page at: https://carroll.org/screen-reader-user-tester-training-program/. To apply, please reach out to the admissions team at the Carroll Center by emailing admissions@carroll.org 📧️ or by calling (617) 969-6200 📱️, extension 216.
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/
20) 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 App Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html
3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html
4) 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: Humanware
➜ 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/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
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)
➜ Coding is Easy and Accessible with Colby the Code & Go Robot Mouse
Code & Go Mouse introduces coding concepts and tactile graphics as users program Colby to race through a maze toward the cheese. Colby lights-up, makes sounds, and features two speeds along with colorful buttons for easy programming and sequencing.
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 You in 2022!
(1) New protective hands-free leather pouch for larger phones Pro and Pro Max and Android) 5 by 8 inches; 4 compartments; $30. (2) New single-ear headphone design with easy to locate buttons and all day comfort: $45. (3) Talking Medical Bundle Sale - (infrared thermometer, BP unit with cuff, and oximeter, ending Jan. 31: $130. (4) Many new leather bag styles for laptops, tablets, and Braille displays. Call Barry at (617) 969-7500 📱️ | bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️ or Kae at (781) 286-1696 📱️ | guidelightdogs@gmail.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
➜ 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
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
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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
The DannyBoy Portable Stand holds your Smart Phone stationary so it's camera can view items and documents clearly providing stability for excellent recognition & clarity. Take perfect pictures and scan images. Read documents quickly and easily. Great for anyone with motor disabilities, too! Made with the Blind In Mind! Lightweight & Portable. Ready To Use or Collapses In Seconds. Read All About the DannyBoy Portable Stand at DannyBoy.com in BlindMiceMegaMall.com at:
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
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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
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
➜ VisionAware Resources: The Reader's Digest Getting Started Guide to Vision Loss
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.
Your Name Here
0 of 12 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 0 of 12 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, January 13, 2022 - Volume 841
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: Become a Screen Reader User Tester and Launch Your Career in Digital Accessibility
Want to break into the field of digital accessibility as a screen reader user tester? A new session of the Carroll Center for the Blind's popular 7-week, face-to-face Screen Reader User Tester Training program starts on March 14, 2022. Come learn and grow your ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers during this intensive training program. If you're interested in gaining the foundation to develop a solid career path in the digital accessibility field while making a difference as a screen reader user tester, reach out today. Spots are filling up fast! To learn more, visit the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program page at: https://carroll.org/screen-reader-user-tester-training-program/. To apply, please reach out to the admissions team at the Carroll Center by emailing admissions@carroll.org 📧️ or by calling (617) 969-6200 📱️, extension 216.
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) JAWS Power Tip: What is the Single Line versus Multi-Line Ribbon? And How Do I Know Which One I'm Using? (7.9% of all clicks.)
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/48.html
B.) Sight Loss Coach and Author Donna Jodhan Launches The Blind Lifestyle Newsletter (6.8% of all clicks.)
https://donnajodhan.com/tbln/2022/01012022/
C.) MIT Technology Review | The 10 Breakthrough Technologies of 2021 (5.1% of all clicks.)
https://www.technologyreview.com/2021/02/24/1014369/10-breakthrough-technologies-2021/
D.) iOS 15 Settings You Should Change On Your iPhone 13 Right Now (4.4% of all clicks.)
https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/ios-15-settings-you-should-change-on-your-iphone-13-right-now/
E.) Ten Facts About Braille (4.4% of all clicks.)
https://clovernook.org/2021/06/21/ten-facts-about-braille/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI56Dx6NqU9QIVqBZMCh3YtAWsEAAYAiAAEgLmkvD_BwE
2) How To Navigate Tidbits Using A Screen Reader. Tidbits Reader Feedback Plus Publisher Rant Answers The Question: 'Do Users of Screen Reader Technology Read Advertisements?'
If you are a Tidbits Sponsor, past or present, we encourage you to review this article. If you are interested in not just accessibility, but in achieving Assistive Technology convenience and ease of use, we believe you will find this information equally as useful:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/50.html
3) Hey Alexa
A.) Create an Alexa Voice ID for a more personalized on-device experience. Just say, "Alexa, learn my voice."
B.) Let loved ones know they're on your mind by sending them a hug message with fun sound effects. Just say, "Alexa, send a hug."
C.) Share your dietary preferences with Alexa and get personalized recipe ideas. Just say, "Alexa, open my food preferences."
4) American Foundation for the Blind Releases 2022 Workplace Technology Study
The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) has announced the release of the Workplace Technology Study, a new report examining how technology in the workplace influences the experiences of workers who are blind, have low vision, or are deafblind:
https://www.afb.org/research-and-initiatives/workplace-tech-study
5) The Best of CES 2022 | Wired
These are 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-2022/
6) AI Co-Pilot For Blind And Visually Impaired Demonstrated At CES
Comprising a collar fitted with 3D cameras, biped continuously monitors a 170 degree field of view for the user detecting, tracking, and predicting the trajectories of all surrounding elements a few seconds in advance. It then filters the relevant information and warns the wearer via immersive 3D sounds:
https://www.med-technews.com/news/ai-and-vr-in-healthcare/ai-co-pilot-for-blind-and-visually-impaired-demonstrated-at-/
7) Accessibility Reminder, a Microsoft Garage Project
This is a new app from Microsoft Garage which allows document recipients to remind authors about accessibility issues they have with their documents:
https://appsource.microsoft.com/en-us/product/office/wa200003509?tab=overview
8) YouTuber's Open-Source 3D Printed PS5 DualSense Attachment Allows Accessible One-Handed Play
This device makes it easier for PlayStation gamers to play with one hand:
https://3dprintingindustry.com/news/youtubers-open-source-3d-printed-ps5-dualsense-attachment-allows-accessible-one-handed-play-202109/
9) Contest for Reviewing Audio Description
Students and teachers of the visually impaired can enter a contest to win devices by reviewing described media. Read more about the content and enter here:
https://dcmp.org/learn/657-lil-badie
10) Build A Solid Foundation for SEO With Web Accessibility Requirements
Here is an alternate case for building accessible web content based on search engine optimization:
https://www.searchenginejournal.com/accessibility-foundation-seo/432159/
11) Five 2022 Accessibility Trends
This article by Sheri Byrne-Haber, as the title suggest, covers accessibility trends in 2022. Slowly Improving accessibility, overlay vendors and how the private sector will move forward with updated accessibility standards are some of the topics:
https://uxdesign.cc/five-2022-accessibility-trends-9b0fe09adef2
12) Soundscape Recreational Activities
This contributor (Stephen (Alex) Marositz) noticed a new button in the Microsoft Soundscape app called "Recreational Activities." Evidently organizations can create their own Soundscape experiences for users by writing to soundscape@microsoft.com. We, at Tidbits, have done this and will report on what we find out. For more information about Soundscape, go to:
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/product/soundscape/
13) Reviewed Launches New Vertical Dedicated To Accessibility
Reviewed has announced the launch of a dedicated Accessibility category, focused on providing in-depth product insights for adaptive products, assistive technology and accessible design for people with disabilities, people who are aging and their caregivers:
https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/reviewed/2022/01/10/reviewed-launches-new-focus-accessibility-and-aging/9134353002/
14) Acoustic Virtual Reality Game Helps Blind And Partially Sighted People To Orient Themselves
The people over at CoolBlindTech bring us the story of a VR game designed to assist people with blindness better orient themselves:
https://coolblindtech.com/acoustic-virtual-reality-game-helps-blind-and-partially-sighted-people-to-orient-themselves/
15) Accessible Chess
Accessible Chess is the Chess program that was built for the blind. It's the most accessible, most in-depth program for playing Chess on the Windows market for blind people. Accessible Chess costs the small amount of 10 British Pounds to play it fully featured, but there is a demo:
https://nathantech.net/products/games/chess.php
16) Better Quality, Easier To Use Braille Maps Made By Using New Indigenous Technology Coming Soon
Visually-challenged students will soon have access to Braille maps designed and developed using digital embossing technology, which would be user friendly and easier to handle besides being more durable and longer lasting:
https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/nation/better-quality-easier-to-use-braille-maps-made-by-using-new-indigenous-technology-coming-soon-359992
17) Microsoft 365 Update Will Make Sure No One Is At A Disadvantage
At a time when businesses are using web accessibility software to make their websites accessible to all, Microsoft has released a new add-on that does the same thing for its office software:
https://www.techradar.com/news/microsoft-365-update-will-make-sure-no-one-is-at-a-disadvantage
18) Orcam Myeye PRO Receives CES Innovation Award
The OrCam MyEye PRO beat out over 1,800 products to receive the innovation honoree award at the CES trade show held in the past week in Nevada:
https://www.jpost.com/business-and-innovation/tech/article-691812
19) OrCam's MyEye Pro Device on Glasses Can Help Visually Impaired Users to Read
OrCam MyEye is a small wearable device that provides a solution to users with vision problems. The small device can be attached to the glasses. It has a built-in camera, a cable that can be connected to a bigger device that is the same size as a smartphone and a speaker. Once the device is ready to go, you can have it read things for you:
https://www.techtimes.com/articles/270220/20220107/orcams-myeye-pro-device-help-visually-impaired-users-read.htm
20) Libreoffice 7.3 Will Ship With Support For Two Made-Up Languages; Klingon And Interslavic
The popular open-source office suite, LibreOffice, will support two constructed (made-up) languages from early February with the launch of LibreOffice 7.3. The two languages are Star Trek's Klingon — the language of the Klingons, and Interslavic, a language that's supposed to bridge the language gap between Slavic languages such as Russian and Polish:
https://www.neowin.net/news/libreoffice-73-will-ship-with-support-for-two-made-up-languages-klingon-and-interslavic/
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) CES 2022: biped Steers Blind/Visually Impaired To Independent Living
With biped, the Switzerland-based company with artificial intelligence-based technology, obstacles are less likely for the 40 million people in the world who are blind or visually impaired:
https://www.ibtimes.com/ces-2022-biped-steers-blindvisually-impaired-independent-living-3361917
2) Increasing At-Home COVID Test Accessibility For The Blind
Accessibility in health care for low vision people has always been an issue, but the pandemic has exacerbated inequities:.
https://www.wmar2news.com/news/coronavirus/increasing-at-home-covid-test-accessibility-for-the-blind
3) Covid Tests 'Still Not Accessible' For Blind People Two Years Into The Pandemic
Lucy Edwards, a blind YouTuber and TikToker who campaigns for awareness, told Metro.co.uk about her difficulties taking coronavirus tests, calling 'the whole process completely inaccessible'. The 26-year-old added: 'The only way I am able to do it independently is if I use an app called Be My Eyes, which connects me to an NHS professional via the specialized help tab of the app:
https://metro.co.uk/2022/01/09/covid-tests-not-accessible-for-blind-people-two-years-into-pandemic-15867869/
4) How I Have Sex: 'With My [Visual] Disability, I Can't Sense What My Partner Wants — They Have to Say It'
In How I Have Sex, we bring you candid retellings of people's sexual lives that explore the multidimensional nature of this human experience. In this installment, 23-year-old Rakshit recounts their experience of navigating intimacy while living with partial blindness:
https://theswaddle.com/how-i-have-sex-with-my-visual-disability-i-cant-see-cues-about-what-my-partner-wants-they-have-to-voice-it/
5) Love Is Blind: Woman Lists 5 Good Things About Being In A Relationship With A Blind Person
TikToker @niyaesperanza posted a lighthearted video on the social network tagging her boyfriend in the caption and writing, '@jakeolson61 is the perfect boyfriend and here's why...' In the video, Niya lists five good things about being in a relationship with a guy who is blind:
https://www.gentside.co.uk/viral/5-reasons-to-date-blind-person_art8915.html
6) Accused of Refusing Aid to Disabled Kids, a State Agency Responded — by Hiring a PR Firm
Charging nearly $200k, the firm promised to help Florida's NICA program "win in the court of public opinion." But in the end, state lawmakers insisted that administrators listen to parents and make changes:
https://www.propublica.org/article/accused-of-refusing-aid-to-disabled-kids-a-state-agency-responded-by-hiring-a-pr-firm
7) The Pandemic Has Highlighted the Need for Accessible Technology in Government
The rise of remote work and virtual meetings revealed IT solutions' shortcomings for workers with disabilities:
https://statetechmagazine.com/article/2022/01/pandemic-has-highlighted-need-accessible-technology-government
8) The Government Just Turned A Celebration Of Disability Into An Accessibility Nightmare
It's only the start of January. But already the government has shown that blind and low vision people are an afterthought. Because its Disability Unit managed to create a video about them which was inaccessible:
https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2022/01/05/the-government-just-turned-a-celebration-of-disability-into-an-accessibility-nightmare/
9) Court Orders 9,000 Crosswalk Upgrades for Blind Pedestrians
A federal court directed New York City to improve the intersections in the next decade to bring them in line with the Americans with Disabilities Act:
https://www.route-fifty.com/public-safety/2022/01/court-orders-crosswalk-upgrades-blind-pedestrians-new-york/360468/
10) Improve Disability Rights? The Government Can't Even Make a Tweet Accessible
If the Disability Unit was serious it would be working on addressing the real issues affecting disabled people in Britain today:
https://www.independent.co.uk/voices/disability-rights-government-tweet-braille-day-b1989207.html
11) Inclusion Movement Increasingly Apparent in Food Packaging
Inclusion is one of those buzzwords that has gained prominence in recent years, but in practical terms, those with disabilities often have been left out. Now food manufacturers are taking another look, including braille labels and larger fonts on their packaging:
https://foodinstitute.com/focus/inclusion-movement-increasingly-apparent-in-food-packaging/
12) Why Voting In Switzerland Is Difficult For The Visually Impaired
The Swiss democratic system struggles to include certain groups of citizens. People who are visually impaired can participate in votes and elections in Switzerland, but they need assistance from another person, which compromises the secrecy of the ballot:
https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/why-voting-in-switzerland-is-difficult-for-the-visually-impaired/47236244
13) Belkin Vision, An Israeli Startup, Will Offer Fast, Non Invasive Treatment For Glaucoma
Belkin Vision, an Israeli startup is working on making fast, non-invasive treatment accessible for everyone by automating the SLT procedure. Direct SLT, invented by Belkin, requires no direct contact with the eye. An advanced algorithm locates the treatment area and with just a press of a button, 120 lasers are delivered to the eye at the speed of light. As a result, the patient is in and out within minutes. Also, because of no contact involved, it becomes much more desirable, especially during times like Coronavirus pandemic:
https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2021/12/belkin-vision-an-israeli-startup-will-offer-fast-non-invasive-treatment-for-glaucoma.html
14) Visually Impaired YouTubers Open The Eyes Of Sighted Society
Visually impaired YouTubers are raising their voices to create awareness among society and to make life accessible for them:
https://www.yenisafak.com/en/news/visually-impaired-youtubers-open-eyes-of-sighted-society-3587268
15) Feel The Sequins: Touch Tours And Headset Hosts Are A Sensation For Visually Impaired Audiences
A writer who had felt shut out from stage plays finds out how Curve Leicester's A Chorus Line is presented with audio description and a guide to the costumes:
https://www.theguardian.com/stage/2022/jan/05/feel-the-sequins-touch-tours-and-headset-hosts-are-a-sensation-for-visually-impaired-audiences
16) DigitalAge's Mantra "Innovate for Good" Embraces ADA Compliance Including Text to Speech Features, a First For a Social Media Network
Though many websites are starting to offer Accessibility controls like text enlargement and redesigning layouts to compliance standards, the social media platforms are remiss and rely on the operating systems they live on, i.e., Android or iOS. Though Apple and Google are making strides, mobile apps and specifically social media apps need to do better:
https://sports.yahoo.com/digitalages-mantra-innovate-good-embraces-184100359.html
17) National Federation of the Blind Enhances Largest Scholarship Program for Blind Scholars
The National Federation of the Blind, the transformative membership and advocacy organization of blind Americans, is now accepting scholarship applications. Thirty scholarships are available for blind students who are residents of the fifty states, the District of Columbia, or Puerto Rico and who are pursuing or plan to pursue a full-time post-secondary course of study in a degree program at an accredited United States institution in the fall of the 2022-2023 academic year:
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/national-federation-of-the-blind-enhances-largest-scholarship-program-for-blind-scholars-301454642.html
18) 4 Reasons ADA Compliance is Important for Ecommerce Stores
Accessibility has been garnering interest for the last 5 years — and it isn't stopping soon. Everywhere in the digital world, people are adapting their presence (website, social media, forums, etc.) to include a wider range of audiences and lending a helping hand to people who were earlier ignored:
https://www.webpronews.com/ada-compliance/
19) Visually-Impaired Not Enjoying Full Range Of Technology Advancements
Technological advancement has taken humans to a never-before-experienced level of convenience. Unfortunately, it has not had quite the same impact for the visually impaired. For instance, touch-screen technology is great, but only for the sighted:
https://www.thesundaily.my/home/page-2-lead-jan-10-blind-tech-CB8740985
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Hadley Presents: A Conversation with the Experts: Emotional Adjustment to Vision Loss: Twin Perspectives
January 7th 2022 | Twin sisters Jenelle and Joy join the podcast to share their personal experiences with vision loss and adjusting to it emotionally. While they look identical, their perspectives and journeys differ, highlighting their mission to show that "there is no right way to go blind."
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/emotional-adjustment-vision-loss-twin-perspectives
2) Blind Android Users 57 | Travel and Lodging with Android
January 8th 2022 | In this episode, we demo traveling apps such as Gett and Moovit for our UK listeners. We then demo Priceline, Kayak and Uber for global listeners. And for Indian listeners we demo the public transport and B.E.S.T bus ticket and pass booking app Chalo. To listen to the podcast, please visit:
https://blindandroidusers.com/category/bauposts/shownotes/
3) Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther: Episode 42: Healing Crystals, Brett Kissel and Accessible Power Tools
January 9th 2022 | On episode 42 of Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther, we start with Ms. Lilly telling us about healing crystals. Country music star Brett Kissel speaks with us about his latest song "Make a Life Not a Living". We demonstrate Ryobi tool accessibility features, including how to use MS Seeing AI to monitor battery charging, and offers some reflections for the New Year:
https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/episode-42-healing-crystals-brett-kissel-and/id1530444764?i=1000547353415
4) Eyes on Success 2202 Not Just For Fun
January 12th 2022 | Camp Abilities is a week long sports camp for children with visual impairments. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Lauren Lieberman, the camp's founder and director, about the program and the benefits it provides to blind youth who otherwise might have missed out on such opportunities to participate in activities with their peers:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202202.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) 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
2) Intro to NVDA: A 12-Wweek Workshop
January 13th 2022 | 3PM PT, 4PM MT, 5PM CT, 6PM ET, 11PM GMT | Thursdays beginning January 13, 6:00 - 7:30 PM Eastern. There are several Windows screen readers to choose from. 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! This event will take place online:
.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfYKIXMmWmBwpCcqAMper8IJhPbk0bJidqJBOZNn-IvJgov1A/viewform
3) Exploring JAWS - A 12-Week Workshop
January 13th 2022 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 8PM GMT | Thursdays beginning January 13, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM Eastern. 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! This event will take place online. Sign up using the link below:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfSIMNlPdlpFKLpZFCGaMS_M3YMMfTJaVM2swPcJefQaLe8qA/viewform
4) Tech for Teens Club: Building Websites from Pacer | K-12 AT Webinar
January 15th 2022 | 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 8PM GMT | This workshop will introduce teens with disabilities to a method of designing websites using the free online tool at Weebly.com. Students will learn how to use template designs and insert small amounts of code to customize and publish their own websites online. This is an extension of the Coding Websites workshop but past attendance isn't required:
https://www.pacer.org/workshops/
5) Free Webinar: 3 Ways to Set Up an Android Phone for the Visually Impaired | Blind Android Users Podcast and Voxmate
January 19th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | The Blind Android Users Podcast and Voxmate teams are co-hosting a webinar on January 19 at 12pm EST. In this one-hour hands-on webinar, you'll learn the key principles of Android accessibility and the organizers will introduce you to three different ways to set up the phone for the visually impaired: beginner, intermediate, and experienced tech users. Android is the most popular operating system in the world, with over 2.5 billion active users. In the past, the screen reader TalkBack was assumed to be difficult, but recent developments suggest that 2022 could be a good year to make the switch. This webinar is primarily for assistive technology specialists and caregivers, but all others interested are welcome to attend. The webinar is free, but registration is required:
https://voxmate.com/webinar
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) Best Practices for Cognitive Evaluation of Students with Visual Impairment | APH
January 20th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | When appropriate practices are followed, cognitive testing of individuals who are blind and visually impaired provides useful and valuable information to test-takers, their families, instructors, and other decision makers. Join this webinar to examine guidelines for intelligence testing and review important concepts which guide all formal evaluations for students with Visual Impairments:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_PDlvJHUYQfOPOHUCOY9jFg
8) ABLE Accounts: A Financial Planning Tool for People with Disabilities and their Families | Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled
January 20th 2022 | 3:30PM PT, 4:30PM MT, 5:30PM CT, 6:30PM ET, 11:30 PM GMT | Join us to learn about the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act and how a Maryland ABLE account can help people who are blind, those with low vision, and other qualifying disabilities to save and invest for the future without jeopardizing federal, state, and local benefits such as SSI and Medicaid. Attendees will learn about the enrollment process, tax-advantaged savings, and investment options, how to use the ABLE account to pay for qualified disability-related expenses, and the account management process. No registration is needed:
https://join.freeconferencecall.com/mdlbpd
9) 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
10) Slate and Stylus 101 | APH
January 21st 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | One of the important tools used by many adults who are blind is the slate and stylus, which allows for a quick method to jot down grocery lists, telephone numbers, and love notes. Join this webinar and learn how to load the slate with paper, acquire the language used to teach students how to create alphabet letters, and write names and numbers using the slate and stylus. Amount of Time: 90 minutes:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_k7tiKuJZSk-9rIxx5_Z0zA
11) The Marketer's Guide to Accessibility | TPGi
January 25th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | As a marketer, you spend substantial time and effort building content and crafting messaging to convince individuals that your company can satisfy their needs. But imagine if 20% of your audience ignored everything you created - not because they weren't interested, but because they were unable to access it. This is exactly what happens when your digital content is not accessible to people with disabilities.
Understanding and delivering accessible digital content is a critical skill to have in your marketing toolkit. During this webinar you'll learn best practices for digital accessibility that touch on a variety of platforms, types of content, and even how to deal with third-party vendors. You'll leave with easy, effective methods for improving and testing the accessibility of your website and marketing content. Don't miss your chance to broaden your target market and lower your risk - register today! Unable to register? If you are using Internet Explorer and have cookies disabled (either via privacy mode or decline cookies on the website), you may not be able to register through this form. If you are still unable to register, please email ida@tpgi.com 📧️ with your name and contact information. Ida will arrange the registration on your behalf:
https://www.tpgi.com/anuary-25-at-12pm-et-the-marketers-guide-to-accessibility/
12) 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
13) Using a Team Approach in Evaluating Students with Visual Impairments Using the Woodcock-Johnson IV Braille Adaptation | APH
January 27th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Psychologists and diagnosticians trained in using the Woodcock-Johnson IV rarely have the knowledge and experience necessary to validly evaluate students with visual impairments who use braille. Join this webinar to learn how to be a valuable team member in administering and scoring the tests and in interpreting the results:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_na8C0sOIS7CUpeLKsNDLfQ
14) Accessibility Compliance and Risk Mitigation Tactics | TBase Communications, CommonLook and Accessible 360
January 27th 2022 | 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT | As legislation evolves, many organizations are unaware that providing accessible technology is not a choice — it is now the law. These laws define the civil rights of those with disabilities and ensure equitable access across websites, apps, and internal systems. However, though the laws are clear, many companies are at risk of costly litigation, negative press, brand damage, and more due to the lack of knowledge or adherence to legal requirements. In this 60 minute webinar, we will debunk many of the myths regarding accessibility, including: What it means to have usable and compliant websites and apps. How to properly test and certify digital properties. How to track the governance and business compliance. The common elements of a demand letter and lawsuits and how to settle legal actions. How to mitigate risk before legal action:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/7916415732492/WN_IFkIR-ywS4-j1-uiL7R_mA
15) Foundations of Duxbury | APH
January 31st 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | Where to start with Duxbury Braille Translator (DBT)? We start with the program's nuts and bolts. We will clearly explain the inner workings of DBT, and how you can get it to purr ... or quack ... happily for you:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_S1R5NxubRxKA4TKRy3-gUA
16) 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
17) Jaw Muscles: A Guide to Increased Productivity Using JAWS for Windows | Hartgen Consultancy
February 14th 2022 | While many people can use computing applications with the keyboard at a basic level, we want to kick your screen-reading skills into shape. We'll show you plenty of strategies you probably didn't know about. Once you've completed our new training course, you will be able to show everyone your screen-reading muscles! Course Delivery: Jaw Muscles will commence week beginning Monday 14 February 2022 and weekly thereafter. The cost of the course is £50 which is currently 68 US dollars. Purchase JAW Muscles Online. While it is by no means a requirement for course participation, we are offering an additional package if you do not have our Leasey product. One of the main advantages of Leasey is to add even more productivity tools to those already available within JAWS and this year, we intend to add even more of these. JAW Muscles with Leasey is available at a substantially reduced rate for a combined total of £80 which is approximately $108 US. Purchase Jaw Muscles With Leasey Online. Alternatively, anyone can purchase either package by sending an email to jaws@hartgen.org 📧️, whereupon a fully accessible electronic invoice will be sent to you which can be paid through PayPal or any major credit or debit card.
18) Breast Cancer Webinar for Women Who Are Blind | Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind
February 25th 2022 | 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT | On February 25, 2022, please join Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind as we discuss accessible breast cancer information, detection and prevention for blind women and their families with these expert presenters: Dr. Kim Kubek, MD: Pennsylvania Diagnostic Breast Cancer Center and https://www.breastcancer.org/. Dr. Kristen Capece, PharmD, BCGP: Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind. Dr. Jill Lykon, PharmD, BCOP: University of Miami Hospital. Agenda: 12:00 - Welcome. 12:05 - Dr. Kim Kubek: Breast Cancer Overview and How to Self-Exam. 12:50 - American Cancer Society: Accessible Cancer Resources. 1:00 - Dr. Kristen Capece: Cancer Medications. 1:15 - Dr. Jill Lykon: Impact of Chemotherapy on Medication and Diabetes. This webinar will have captioning and a live ASL interpreter. Eligible attendees can receive CE credit for participating. If you are unable to attend, still be sure to register to receive access to the webinar audio and video after the event, as well as an audio description of a breast self-exam for women who are blind or have low vision:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_caNB11QmS4a4KjJyBnZWwQ
19) Accommodation Solutions for Executive Functioning Deficits | AskJan
March 10 2022 | 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT | Executive functions are high-level mental processes or abilities that influence and direct more basic abilities like attention and memory. Join JAN Cognitive/Neurological Team consultants Melanie Whetzel and Alexis Popa for a discussion about accommodation solutions that address limitations affecting attention, time management, memory, hyperactivity/impulsivity, and getting to work on time. This training will be a live question and answer session but will include JAN accommodation examples to prompt thinking about the topics and generate questions about the difficulties you or your employees are experiencing on the job that involve attention, meeting deadlines, productivity standards, and more:
https://askjan.org/events/index.cfm?calview=eventdetails&dtid=8915ADD3-BF08-73CC-570AFACA27FE7DCE
20) Screen Reader User Tester Training Program | Carroll Center for the Blind | Become a Screen Reader User Tester and Launch Your Career in Digital Accessibility
March 14th 2022 | Want to break into the field of digital accessibility as a screen reader user tester? A new session of the Carroll Center for the Blind's popular 7-week, face-to-face Screen Reader User Tester Training program starts on March 14, 2022. Come learn and grow your ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers during this intensive training program. If you're interested in gaining the foundation to develop a solid career path in the digital accessibility field while making a difference as a screen reader user tester, reach out today. Spots are filling up fast! To learn more, visit the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program page at: https://carroll.org/screen-reader-user-tester-training-program/. To apply, please reach out to the admissions team at the Carroll Center by emailing admissions@carroll.org 📧️ or by calling (617) 969-6200 📱️, extension 216.
21) 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/
22) 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.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html
3) 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: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store
➜ 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!
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
Code & Go Mouse introduces coding concepts and tactile graphics as users program Colby to race through a maze toward the cheese. Colby lights-up, makes sounds, and features two speeds along with colorful buttons for easy programming and sequencing.
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 Leather Bags To End The Year With A Bang!
Heavy Duty shoulder bag for laptop (14 inches) AND your Braille display, $70 Braille Display 20 cell gux case: $70 New neck pouch for large phones (pro, pro max) 5 pockets; $35 Our ever popular leather utility wallet for Stream or Trek, $15, 2 for $25, 3 for $30 Guide Dog Treat Pouch 2 pocket, $20 Multiple color small cross body (6x8) purses, (closeout) 3 for $25 REALLY NICE 18" leather waist pack $25 (not a misprint, a buying mistake). Call Barry at (617) 969-7500 📱️ | bscheur@scheur.com 📧️ or Kae at (781) 286-1696 📱️ | guidelightdogs@gmail.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
➜ 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
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
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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
The DannyBoy Portable Stand holds your Smart Phone stationary so it's camera can view items and documents clearly providing stability for excellent recognition & clarity. Take perfect pictures and scan images. Read documents quickly and easily. Great for anyone with motor disabilities, too! Made with the Blind In Mind! Lightweight & Portable. Ready To Use or Collapses In Seconds. Read All About the DannyBoy Portable Stand at DannyBoy.com in BlindMiceMegaMall.com at:
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
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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
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
➜ VisionAware Resources: The Reader's Digest Getting Started Guide to Vision Loss
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
➜ 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/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.
Your Name Here
0 of 12 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 0 of 12 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, January 6, 2022 - Volume 840
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: Freedom Scientific: Introducing The RUBY 10 Video Magnifier With Speech And Unique, Patent-Pending Features!
The RUBY 10 video magnifier features a 10-inch touchscreen and three dedicated cameras to help you magnify letters, magazines, labels, and photos (2x to 24x). 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 and have scanned pages read aloud to you. The third camera is dedicated to seeing objects at a short distance, like signs and menus on a wall. The RUBY 10 introduces unique, patent-pending viewing modes specific to certain eye conditions. Examples include color blindness filter differentiates the colors normally occluded by some eye conditions; filter to reduce the brightness of color wavelengths to reduce glare and eye fatigue; dynamic contrast provides better contrast differentiation across an image with gradients or shadows; and text and object edge enhancements better define details. Learn more by visiting the RUBY 10 webinar archive:
https://www.freedomscientific.com/webinars/meet-the-ruby-10/
Dear Tidbits Subscriber,
1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week
A.) iOS 15 Settings You Should Change On Your iPhone 13 Right Now (12.4% of all clicks.)
https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/ios-15-settings-you-should-change-on-your-iphone-13-right-now/
B.) 10 Amazing Apple iPhone Accessibility Tips You Might Not Be Aware Of (5.4% of all clicks.)
https://www.hellomagazine.com/news/20211217129234/apple-iphone-accessibility-tips/
C.) Did You Know Gmail Has Dozens Of Handy Keyboard Shortcuts? (5.2% of all clicks.)
https://www.ricksdailytips.com/gmail-keyboard-shortcuts/
D.) AccessiBe Breaks Accessibility of The Focus on The Family Online Shop by David Goldfield (5.1% of all clicks.)
https://davidgoldfield.wordpress.com/2021/12/28/accessibe-breaks-accessibility-of-the-focus-on-the-family-online-shop/
E.) How to Use Your Smart Speakers as a Home Theater Sound System (4.1% of all clicks.)
https://gizmodo.com/how-to-use-your-smart-speakers-as-a-home-theater-sound-1848271953
2) Moonshot: Top Tech Tidbits 2022 Website Recode Attempts to Achieve Sitewide 400/400 Google Lighthouse Score on Both Desktop and Mobile
Our Publisher bites off a little more than he can chew with the 2022 Top Tech Tidbits Website Recode Project. If you have custom website development experience perhaps you can provide him with some much needed direction. Learn more about the project and what score we were ultimately able to achieve here:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/49.html
3) Hey Alexa
A.) Alexa can help recommend local businesses by hours of operation, delivery, rating, and more. Just say, "Alexa, find restaurants that are open now."
B.) You can now choose between Alexa's original voice and a new voice option in Alexa's default voice settings. Just say, "Alexa, change your voice."
C.) Speaker groups allow you to play music, podcasts, and news on multiple Echo devices at once, providing a multi-room audio experience. In the Alexa app, you can create custom speaker groups, such as "Upstairs," "Bedrooms," or "Downstairs." Just say, "Alexa, play music everywhere."
4) Sight Loss Coach and Author Donna Jodhan Launches The Blind Lifestyle Newsletter
As the very first founding Sponsor of Top Tech Tidbits we are pleased to announce that Sight Loss Coach and Author Donna Jodhan has launched her very own monthly newsletter. The Blind Lifestyle Newsletter. The newsletter by and for the blind and visually impaired by Sight Loss Coach and Author Donna Jodhan. Full disclosure, Donna is also a client of the company that now publishes Top Tech Tidbits, Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd., so her new newsletter will benefit from the very same heading and accessibility features as the Tidbits newsletter itself. The Blind Lifestyle Newsletter will focus on lifestyle news for the blind, deaf, deafblind and disabled that is not directly related to technology, making it a great compliment to your Tidbits subscription. Check out her very first issue and subscribe below:
The Blind Lifestyle Newsletter for January 1, 2022 - Issue 1:
https://donnajodhan.com/tbln/2022/01012022/
Subscribe:
https://donnajodhan.com/subscribe
5) JAWS Power Tip: What is the Single Line versus Multi-Line Ribbon? And How Do I Know Which One I'm Using?
Courtesy of Freedom Scientific:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/48.html
6) Booze Allen Hamilton Seeking To Hire 7 Junior Accessibility Testers and 10 Senior Accessibility Testers | Majority of Positions Are Remote
Booze Allen Hamilton is currently seeking to hire 7 junior accessibility testers and 10 senior accessibility testers with the majority of the positions being remote. Federal clearance required. For more information about the positions, please contact Larry Lewis at lewis_larry@bah.com 📧️
7) MIT Technology Review | The 10 Breakthrough Technologies of 2021
This list marks 20 years since MIT began compiling an annual selection of the year's most important technologies. Some, such as mRNA vaccines, are already changing our lives, while others are still a few years off. In this article you'll find a brief description along with a link to a feature article that probes each technology in detail. We hope you'll enjoy and explore. Taken together, some of our very best minds believe this list represents a glimpse into our collective future:
https://www.technologyreview.com/2021/02/24/1014369/10-breakthrough-technologies-2021/
8) AppleVis Unlimited: What's New and Noteworthy for December 2021
https://www.applevis.com/newsletter/applevis-unlimited-whats-new-noteworthy-december-2021
9) Recording: An Introduction to Windows 11 and JAWS (MP3) | Training From Freedom Scientific | December 31st 2021
The release of Windows 11 brings some of the new and some of the old to your computer. So in this session, we'll discuss those changes and how to efficiently use JAWS to: Navigate the Windows 11 desktop. Explore the Start menu. Explain changes in the File Explorer menus. Demonstrate Notification Center and Quick Settings flyouts. Mention new terminology. Discuss Ease of Access Center name change. Describe changes to Taskbar settings:
MP3: https://doccenter.freedomscientific.com/doccenter/archives/2021_12_31_Windows_11_and_JAWS/Introduction_to_Windows_11_and_JAWS.mp3
MP4: https://doccenter.freedomscientific.com/doccenter/archives/2021_12_31_Windows_11_and_JAWS/Introduction_to_Windows_11_and_JAWS.mp4
10) Accessible Publishing: A Valued Skill for Graphic Communicators
This journal article highlights the need for accessible publishing primarily using accessible e-pub:
https://whattheythink.com/articles/108856-accessible-publishing-valued-skill-graphic-communicators/
11) How to Create and Use Voiceover Activity Profiles on iOS
This contributor (Stephen (Alex) Marositz) recently found this Voiceover feature useful and wanted to remind everyone about this excellent podcast demonstration:
https://www.applevis.com/podcasts/how-create-and-use-voiceover-activity-profiles-ios
12) Introduction to Cognitive Disability and Accessibility Testing
This article from TPGi is a good primer for web accessibility from a cognitive disability perspective:
https://www.tpgi.com/introduction-to-cognitive-disability-and-accessibility-testing/
13) World Braille Day | January 4th 2022
In the United States, National Braille Day was Tuesday. Here is an article providing a brief history of how this day came to be recognized:
https://nationaltoday.com/world-braille-day/
14) Ten Facts About Braille
Here are 10 braille fast facts:
https://clovernook.org/2021/06/21/ten-facts-about-braille/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI56Dx6NqU9QIVqBZMCh3YtAWsEAAYAiAAEgLmkvD_BwE
15) A Matter Of Respect. Why I Always Write "Braille" With An Uppercase B
While preparing this week's Tidbits, this contributor (Stephen (Alex) Marositz) did some research on why the "b" in braille is not capitalized. The short answer is that braille is an eponym, a word that comes from a person's name that is now in common usage. E.G., sandwich. Jonathan Mozen has an alternate perspective worth considering:
https://mosen.org/a-matter-of-respect-why-i-always-write-braille-with-an-uppercase-b/
16) CSUN Assistive Technology Conference Attendee Registration
The CSUN Assistive Technology conference attendee registration opens next week:
https://www.csun.edu/cod/conference/sessions/index.php/public/website_pages/view/39
17) Comparison of Scribe with RoboBraille and SensusAccess
A few weeks ago, we wondered how Scribe for Documents and RoboBraille were differentiated. Pneuma Solutions, makers of Scribe for Documents have published a blog post on the subject:
https://pneumasolutions.com/comparison-of-scribe-with-robobraille-and-sensusaccess/
18) Reviewing the New Now NVDA Advanced OCR Add-On | YouTube - Thee Quinn
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=On_S4w1bVqg
19) 12 of the Best Windows Sound Schemes to Install on Your PC
Windows 11 and 10 offer only two sound scheme options: "Windows Default" and "No Sounds." If you're bored of listening to them, consider this collection of alternate Windows sound schemes from different genres, including anime, classic games, voices, and aerial sounds. You can either install an entire sound scheme as a theme pack or mix things up to produce a specific event sound:
https://www.maketecheasier.com/best-windows-sound-schemes/
20) How to Fix Cortana's Voice Commands When They Stop Working
Cortana can be handy, but it's only at its best when it can receive commands. Here's how to get Cortana's voice commands back:
https://www.makeuseof.com/windows-10-cortana-voice-commands-not-working/
21) What To Do If Your YouTube Channel Gets Hacked | Blind Android Users | YouTube
In this tip BAU shows you what to do if your YouTube channel gets hacked, how to recover it and more:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hbr34z_AT-U&list=PL5iI0uwraRqoX7XxVuiAV75L8eOSavKWa
22) Backing Up Your Google Account Data Using Google Takeout | Blind Android Users | YouTube
In this tip BAU shows you how to backup the data in your Google account using Google Take Out:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OYsEccqb1-I&list=PL5iI0uwraRqoX7XxVuiAV75L8eOSavKWa&index=6
23) Braille Institute Celebrates "Technology Month" In January
Experts discuss the latest in assistive technology to increase independence and improve daily activities for those who are blind or visually impaired:
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/braille-institute-celebrates-technology-month-in-january-301445647.html
24) Virtual Reality Archery Is "Braille" For Orientation Of Blind People
Researchers at the IIT-Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (Italian Institute of Technology) have developed an acoustic virtual reality-based archery game, enabling blind people to experience for the first time this type of technology, which is typically focused on vision. The researchers' aim was to understand how blind people move and orient themselves in space, and they did so in an engaging way. The platform may be used in the future to rehabilitate blind people's orientation skills and make them more independent, like braille does for reading and writing:
https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-01-virtual-reality-archery-braille-people.html
➜ Press Releases and Other News
1) AccessReady Reporter Issue 22 | December 21st 2021
Access Ready Inc. is an independent, national nonprofit, cross disability, advocacy organization promoting a policy of inclusion and accessibility across information technology through education and best practices:
http://accessreadyreporter.org/issue-22-december-16-2021.html
2) The Tech Industry's Accessibility Report Card For 2021
In spite of all the advancements we've seen in tech, the industry as a whole has consistently neglected people with disabilities. There have been some improvements, including video call apps like FaceTime, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Hangouts and more adding better support for sign language interpreters and closed captioning. And, this year, Instagram and TikTok finally added stickers that enable automated captioning for speech in videos, too. But major organizations continued to make decisions that exclude people with disabilities. The organizer of E3 2021, for example, failed its deaf and hard of hearing viewers during its live streamed show:
https://www.engadget.com/accessibility-in-tech-2021-report-card-apple-google-microsoft-amazon-facebook-meta-twitter-210034415.html
3) Apple's Accessibility Record In 2021 Still The Best, With One Failure Being Addressed
A summary of the way that various tech giants last year sought to address the needs of people with disabilities shows that Apple's accessibility record is better than that of most companies — but did make things worse in one respect
https://9to5mac.com/2022/01/03/apples-accessibility-record-2021/
4) Hadley Workshop Spotlight: Is It Done?
Make sure every dish is cooked to perfection, no matter your level of vision, with tips from the following workshop:
https://hadley.edu/workshops/cooking-series/cooking-is-it-done
5) Wish List of a Visually Impaired Online Banking User
Here is the sharing of one person's online banking experience from a visually-impaired perspective:
https://www.thesundaily.my/home/wish-list-of-visually-impaired-online-banking-user-YM8718010
6) World Braille Day 2021: Significance And All You Need To Know
World Braille Day is observed every year on January 4, as a means of realising fully the human rights of visually impaired and partially-sighted people, and bringing written language to the forefront as a critical prerequisite for promoting fundamental freedoms:
https://www.freepressjournal.in/world/world-braille-day-2021-significance-and-all-you-need-to-know
7) World Braille Day: The Blindspot In Communicating With The Visually Impaired During The Pandemic
The pandemic has emphasised the imperative role of Braille as a mode of communication to reach out to the visually impaired when it comes to public information dissemination:
https://www.timesnownews.com/mirror-now/in-focus/article/world-braille-day-the-blindspot-in-communicating-with-the-visually-impaired-during-the-pandemic/846072
8) 'Game-Changing' Tech To Assist Blind, Visually Impaired Being Developed In Metro Atlanta
New technology to help blind and visually impaired people get around easier is almost a reality, and it's being developed in metro Atlanta:
https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/atlanta/game-changing-tech-assist-blind-visually-impaired-being-developed-metro-atlanta/WV627ELD2BEGLCQTXWWUXWXG2Y/
9) CVS Makes Reading Prescriptions More Accessible With Spoken Rx
In a press release published at the end of November, drug store giant CVS announced Spoken Rx, an in-house prescription label technology that makes medicinal labels accessible to Blind and low vision people. CVS touted the talking prescription feature as "the first in-app prescription reader to be developed by a national retail pharmacy:"
https://www.forbes.com/sites/stevenaquino/2021/12/30/cvs-makes-reading-prescriptions-more-accessible-with-spoken-rx/?sh=9ec6ff329390
10) Getting to Yes, And... | Deana Criess — Improv for the Visually Impaired
Kelly talks to Deana Criess whose work at the Perkins School for the Blind has her teaching improvisation to the visually impaired:
https://wgnradio.com/wgn-plus/second-city-works/getting-to-yes-and-deanna-criess-improv-for-the-visually-impaired/
11) Music For The Deaf, Theatre For The Blind: How The Arts Is Catering To People With Disabilities
12) More Access For The Visually Impaired To Digital Worlds
Gadija Gonsalwes wants to study law. Her school grades are top, a place at university is almost certain. But whether the 18-year-old South African will ever be able to work as a lawyer is uncertain. Because Gonsalwes is blind. She comes from a poor family and has little access to technology that enables the visually impaired to access digital worlds:
https://marketresearchtelecast.com/more-access-for-the-visually-impaired-to-digital-worlds/237864/
13) The GTA Trilogy Remaster Is Flawed, But So Much More Accessible
TheThe release of Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy — The Definitive Edition was, to put it lightly, a shitstorm. The remastered classics were replete with graphical issues and gameplay bugs, vestigial code, and missing songs. To pour salt on the wound, the original PC versions were delisted from digital storefronts on the day of the ports' release. The work was shoddy and unfinished, and for many, these remasters were anything but the definitive versions Rockstar Games had promised. Even so, I couldn't stop playing. Despite this trilogy's abundance of problems, Rockstar's guns for hire at Grove Street Games had, intentionally or not, made these hallowed classics far more accessible:
https://www.polygon.com/22858290/grand-theft-auto-trilogy-definitive-edition-remasters-accessibility
14) Amazon Com : How An Amazon Researcher Who Is Blind Advocates For Customers With Disabilities
The Amazon principal accessibility researcher shares how he's helping make devices more inclusive. For millions of Amazon customers with disabilities, even simple accessibility features make a big difference:
https://www.marketscreener.com/quote/stock/AMAZON-COM-INC-12864605/news/Amazon-com-How-an-Amazon-researcher-who-is-blind-advocates-for-customers-with-disabilities-37437315/
15) Audio Universe: Tour Of The Solar System Is Helping Blind People To 'Hear' The Universe
Astronomers from the universities of Newcastle and Portsmouth, supported by the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC), part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), have developed Audio Universe: Tour of the Solar System, a sound-based educational astronomy show to make learning about the Universe a more immersive and inclusive experience for all:
http://newzhook.com/story/audio-universe-tour-of-the-solar-system-is-helping-blind-people-to-hear-the-universe/
16) IRS Makes Strides In Helping Non-English Speakers And Users With Visual Impairments
The Internal Revenue Service has been stepping up its efforts to provide tax information and resources to taxpayers with limited English proficiency and visual impairments, but more work is needed, according to a new report:
https://www.accountingtoday.com/news/irs-making-strides-on-helping-non-english-speakers-and-visually-impaired
17) The Everyday Smart Tech Helping Australians With Sight Disabilities
Smart technology is seemingly taking over our homes. For the majority it's a luxury but for those without sight it's changing lives:
https://www.9news.com.au/technology/amazon-alexa-for-the-blind-everyday-smart-tech-helping-australians-with-sight-disabilities/9c800761-a52f-4add-9a4d-1f437eaf11b0
18) How Guide Dogs Help The Visually Impaired Navigate Pandemic Challenges (YouTube)
With the Covid-19 pandemic bringing about disruptions to their regular routines, blind and visually impaired Singaporeans say their bond with their guide dogs has become stronger:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UCdShQImOTg
19) Orchards Man's Radio Station Aims To Help Blind, Visually Impaired, Disabled Vets
A local up-and-coming amateur radio station for blind and disabled veterans began airing every day from 6 AM to Noon in December 2021:
https://www.columbian.com/news/2021/dec/29/orchards-mans-radio-station-aims-to-help-blind-visually-impaired-disabled-vets/
20) Forza Horizon 5 and the State of Accessibility at Xbox
Accessibility has finally started to be a central point in game development, which leads to a question. Why can't all games adopt these techniques?
https://www.thexboxhub.com/forza-horizon-5-and-the-state-of-accessibility-at-xbox/
➜ Featured Podcast Episodes
1) Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther 41: Teas for Healthier Living
December 26th 2021 | On AMI Audio's podcast Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther, Lawrence and Lilly explore First Nations remedies for maximising your health. Ms. Lilly provides background on the First Nations Mohawk of Akwesasne community. Sateiokwen Bucktooth, Owner of Snipe Clan Botanicals, introduces us to traditional First Nations serums, tinctures, sav's and five herbal teas, and gives advice on brewing the perfect cup of tea. Lawrence reflects on his favorite teas and their role in his personal daily health regime. So if your feeling those winter blues, got the sniffles, or just want to learn more about traditional First Nations healthy beverage options, join Lawrence and Lilly on episode 40 of Outdoors with Lawrence Gunther. To listen to the podcast, please visit:
https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/episode-41-teas-for-healthier-living/id1530444764?i=1000546157343
2) Blind Android Users 56 | What To Look Out For When Choosing A Phone In 2022 And Lots More
January 1st 2022 | In this episode we first enjoy some new year fireworks from London contributed by Fi Done. Then we wrap up phone trends in 2021 and talk about some good phones. Then we see what to look out for when buying a phone in 2022 and talk about what may be some upcoming trends. We talk about what to do if your YouTube channel gets hacked and how to recover your channel, this is from our own experience. We show you, how to back up all the data including emails that are in your Google account. We talk about an overly simplistic raise to answer app. We also have Episode 19 of our Talkback Highlights. To listen to the podcast, please visit:
https://blindandroidusers.com/category/bauposts/shownotes/
3) Eyes on Success 2201 The Dream of a Lifetime
January 5th 2022 | The MacArthur Fellowship is a $625,000, no-strings-attached award to extraordinarily talented and creative individuals as an investment in their potential. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Josh Miele, blind since childhood and one of the 2021 fellows, about his work in the field of accessibility:
https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show%20notes/show%20notes%202201.htm
➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events
1) 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
2) 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
3) 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
4) 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
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) Jaw Muscles: A Guide to Increased Productivity Using JAWS for Windows | Hartgen Consultancy
February 14th 2022 | While many people can use computing applications with the keyboard at a basic level, we want to kick your screen-reading skills into shape. We'll show you plenty of strategies you probably didn't know about. Once you've completed our new training course, you will be able to show everyone your screen-reading muscles! Course Delivery: Jaw Muscles will commence week beginning Monday 14 February 2022 and weekly thereafter. The cost of the course is £50 which is currently 68 US dollars. Purchase JAW Muscles Online. While it is by no means a requirement for course participation, we are offering an additional package if you do not have our Leasey product. One of the main advantages of Leasey is to add even more productivity tools to those already available within JAWS and this year, we intend to add even more of these. JAW Muscles with Leasey is available at a substantially reduced rate for a combined total of £80 which is approximately $108 US. Purchase Jaw Muscles With Leasey Online. Alternatively, anyone can purchase either package by sending an email to jaws@hartgen.org 📧️, whereupon a fully accessible electronic invoice will be sent to you which can be paid through PayPal or any major credit or debit card.
8) 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/
9) 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.html
2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html
3) 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: American Printing House (APH)
➜ Coding is Easy and Accessible with Colby the Code & Go Robot Mouse
Code & Go Mouse introduces coding concepts and tactile graphics as users program Colby to race through a maze toward the cheese. Colby lights-up, makes sounds, and features two speeds along with colorful buttons for easy programming and sequencing.
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 Leather Bags To End The Year With A Bang!
Heavy Duty shoulder bag for laptop (14 inches) AND your Braille display, $70 Braille Display 20 cell gux case: $70 New neck pouch for large phones (pro, pro max) 5 pockets; $35 Our ever popular leather utility wallet for Stream or Trek, $15, 2 for $25, 3 for $30 Guide Dog Treat Pouch 2 pocket, $20 Multiple color small cross body (6x8) purses, (closeout) 3 for $25 REALLY NICE 18" leather waist pack $25 (not a misprint, a buying mistake). Call Barry at (617) 969-7500 📱️ | bscheur@scheur.com 📧️ or Kae at (781) 286-1696 📱️ | guidelightdogs@gmail.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
➜ 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
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
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. Subscribe to the Double Tap TV YouTube Channel today at:
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.
The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at:
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
The DannyBoy Portable Stand holds your Smart Phone stationary so it's camera can view items and documents clearly providing stability for excellent recognition & clarity. Take perfect pictures and scan images. Read documents quickly and easily. Great for anyone with motor disabilities, too! Made with the Blind In Mind! Lightweight & Portable. Ready To Use or Collapses In Seconds. Read All About the DannyBoy Portable Stand at DannyBoy.com in BlindMiceMegaMall.com at:
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
Launch your career in the digital accessibility field! The Carroll Center for the Blind's new 7-week intensive Screen Reader User Tester Training program allows participants to learn and grow their ability to professionally explore, test, and report findings regarding the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and digital document files using screen readers. Want to learn more? Start your journey to becoming a Screen Reader User Tester by visiting:
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!
This holiday season, give the gift of access to the world's most fundamental right, the right to information. Scribe for Personal Documents is a cloud based service that takes previously inaccessible digital material and renders it into accessible formats in seconds. Help out someone in your life whom you know could use the access, or secure the access for yourself here:
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
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
➜ VisionAware Resources: The Reader's Digest Getting Started Guide to Vision Loss
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
➜ 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/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
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.
Your Name Here
0 of 12 Sponsorship Packages currently available.
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 0 of 12 packages currently available.
If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, 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 have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.
When available you can secure one of these packages 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 while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html.
Top Tech Tidbits Supporters:
We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!
Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing on an annual basis in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication.
If you would like to become a Tidbits Supporter by making a small donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we offer the following options with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.
In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Tidbits possible:
Platinum Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Gary Lee
Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020
2.) Anonymous Donation
Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020
3.) Pshon Barrett
Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021
Gold Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Howard Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020
2.) David Goldstein
Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020
3.) Katherine Crohan
Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021
Silver Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Your name here. Help support Tidbits today.
Bronze Supporters:
Become a Tidbits Supporter today.
1.) Steven Wettlaufer
Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020
Information provided by Top Tech Tidbits, the world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology. Learn more today at: https://toptechtidbits.com.