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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, August 3, 2023 - Volume 922The Week's News in Access Technology A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology. Subscribers: 10,957 Opt-In Subscribers were sent this issue via email. 183 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email. This Week's Featured Advertisement: 6 Sponsorship Packages Currently Available. Join Industry Leaders And Begin Reaching Over 15,000 Access Technology Professionals, Educators and Enthusiasts, All Over The World, Each Week. All While Supporting The Ongoing Distribution of Top Tech Tidbits For Those Very Same Readers. Only $100 USD Per Month. While Packages Last. This Issue Made Possible By Support From The Following Sponsors:
Ongoing Distribution Made Possible By Support From: A. T. Guys, GuideLights And Gadgets, LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store, HumanWare, Freedom Scientific, Pneuma Solutions, Carroll Center for the Blind, HIMS, Inc., Double Tap TV, Clusiv, Fable, Aira, WayAround, The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc., Sterling Adaptives, LLC, AYES.ai, Echobatix and Glidance.Dear Tidbits Subscriber,Submit a Tidbit for free, with timing and placement determined by our editors, here: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news. Submit a Sponsored Tidbit, with timing and placement determined by you, here: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-sponsored-news.1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week🎙 Listen to the podcast.A.) FAST Is The Latest Trend In Streaming TV, But What Is It?Save money with free live streaming TV: B.) Apple Releases iOS 16.6 and iPadOS 16.6 With Bug Fixes and Security Updates | AppleVisApple has released iOS 16.6 and iPadOS 16.6 to the public. While these updates seem to be relatively minor, they do bring a few notable bug fixes for Braille and VoiceOver users: C.) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: How To Navigate Track Changes in Microsoft Word | Freedom ScientificTrack Changes is a feature in Word that allows you to view changes made to a document by you or other users. Word tracks changes to both text and formatting, and you have the option to accept or reject them. These changes appear in different colors or styles to separate them from other text. JAWS will read the changes in your document as you navigate with reading commands such as the ARROW keys. You can also opt to show all changes in the Reviewing Pane: D.) Labeling Elements on iOS and iPadOS: Uses and How To Do It | Curly | AppleVisThere will always be apps with one or more unlabeled elements or elements that have unclear labels. When we encounter an app of this nature, we may resign ourselves to deleting the app and maybe contacting the developer and hoping they'll fix it, but sometimes you may want to take a step further and label the unlabeled elements. This has come in very useful for me and today I'd like to tell you all how to do it so that you all can experience it's benefits too: E.) Windows 11 23H2 Update Coming This Fall, Here's What's NewAs Microsoft prepares for the imminent rollout of Windows 11 23H2, they've been developing various innovative features designed to improve user experience, streamline workflows, and introduce next-generation functionalities. This article will explore Windows 11 23H2 features, from dynamic lighting to Windows Copilot upgrades: 2) Sponsorship Package UpdatesAvailability: There are 6 Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Packages currently available. Join industry leaders and begin reaching over 15,000 access technology professionals, educators and enthusiasts, all over the world, each week. All while supporting the ongoing distribution of Top Tech Tidbits for those very same readers. Only $100 USD Per Month. While Packages Last. Please consider joining us today: 3) Premium Subscriber UpdatesNext Issue: Premium Subscribers will receive their 6th issue of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits for April, May and June 2023 on Monday, October 2, 2023. Back Issues: There are currently 5 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: 4) Sponsored Tidbits Now AvailableUse Sponsored Tidbits to reach the access community when you need to. Whether you are a current Sponsor or not. Drive traffic to your access product and service announcements, events, updates or fundraisers using this incredibly cost-effective and easy-to-use advertisement tool. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsored-tidbits.html. 5) Follow Top Tech Tidbits On Your Preferred ChannelIn addition to receiving Top Tech Tidbits via email every Thursday morning at 6:00 AM ET you can also pick up the newsletter and its trending articles on any of the following channels: 6) AI UpdatesSkip this Tidbit to skip all updates on AI. A) Japanese Researchers and Companies Develop Innovative AI Suitcase for Blind and Partially Sighted TravelersJapanese researchers and companies have collaborated to create a revolutionary guidance robot known as the AI Suitcase, designed to assist blind and partially sighted travelers in navigating their surroundings effortlessly. Recently, the groundbreaking technology underwent its maiden overseas public trial, attracting considerable attention and generating discussions regarding its potential practical uses: B) AI Luggage For People With Visual Impairments Nets Rave Reviews Japanese researchers and companies have joined forces to develop an innovative guidance robot called the AI Suitcase to help blind or partially sighted travelers navigate their surroundings with ease. The groundbreaking assistive technology recently underwent its first overseas public trial, garnering significant interest and sparking discussions about its future practical applications: C) A New Attack Impacts Major AI Chatbots — and No One Knows How to Stop It | Wired: Subscription RequiredPublisher (Di Blasi): It has been posited via science fiction that the only thing capable of "securing" an AI would be another AI, whose values would need to be dictated by humans since AI does not recognize values such as "good" or "bad." At least not yet. AI, inherently, has no understanding of ethics. No framework by which to differentiate a "good" request (chocolate chip recipe) from a "bad" request (explosives recipe). So if we want to "secure" it, whatever that might even really mean now, we would need to first explain to it what we consider "good" and what we consider "bad. In all possible scenarios. Something that poses an entirely different challenge in itself. D) Amazon Wants Alexa To Bring AI Into The Home | AxiosPublisher (Di Blasi): I have 5 different physical Alexa devices placed strategically throughout my home. I use Alexa for everything from maintenance of daily lists, including shopping and tasks, to turning the lights on and off. I even have one in my bathroom. Why? So that I can add tasks to my lists in the morning while listening to my meditation playlist via Spotify in the shower. Smiles. I don't think it's too hard to imagine the benefits we would gain from Alexa attaining ChatGPT-like intelligence. Something for which I am personally very excited. E) Generative AI Could Be A Critical Tool For The Visually Impaired | ComputerWorldBecause of the way generative AI can ingest data from websites and allow users to interact with it verbally, it could be a boon for workers with sight problems: F) New Crisp and Diverse Default Voices Now Available | ElevenLabsOur platform now includes a broader selection of high-quality voices tailored to various use-cases, featuring a wide range of delivery styles and accents: G) Create A Perfect Digital Copy Of Your Voice And Speak The Languages You Don't! | ElevenLabsPublisher (Di Blasi): "One that's virtually indistinguishable from the original." Now those are bold claims. So let the testing commence. Perhaps it's time for yet another cloned voice comparison using the Top Tech Tidbits Podcast? Maybe in Spanish this time? H) How To Get A Summary Of Your Notes In Otter.Ai | The Accessibility GuyThe digital world is abundant with productivity tools designed to simplify our everyday tasks. One such tool that has seen a surge in popularity is Otter AI, a platform that has redefined how we take notes, create transcripts, and generate caption files from audio or video files. Let's delve into how to use Otter AI to enhance your content creation and learning experiences: 7) Apple UpdatesSkip this Tidbit to skip all updates on Apple. A) Vision Pro Development Kits Offer Captivating Clues At The Headset's Accessibility Story | Forbes: Subscription RequiredSince it was unveiled at WWDC early last month, one of the more mysterious aspects of Apple's Vision Pro headset is accessibility. There are many questions to be answered that Apple has been predictably mum over, even off the record. Moreover, this week's announcement of the Vision Pro development kit raises even more questions, insofar as curiosity over the accessibility features in visionOS and how they apply to apps from third-party developers. Questions, they are aplenty: 8) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: How To Check Spelling in Microsoft Word Using JAWS Quick Keys | Freedom ScientificUse Quick Keys in Word to navigate through your spelling errors. These are the JAWS commands: 9) BlindShell Classic 2 Integrates Sero: A Leap Forward in Assistive TechnologyOver the last few years, we have witnessed incredible advancements in technology designed to aid those with visual impairments. Two companies, in particular, have stood out: BlindShell, a pioneer in assistive technology communication, and Pneuma Solutions, the current developers of Sero, the world's most comprehensive and easy-to-navigate social network and multimedia repository for the blind. Now, in an exciting development, the Blindshell Classic 2 Collection of accessible cell phones will integrate the Sero platform, creating an even better, user-friendly experience specifically for the visually impaired. Let's dive in and explore what this collaboration signifies for users: 10) Resolving Content Navigation Issues in Microsoft Word: A Practical Guide | The Accessibility GuyOne might come across an unusual scenario where the navigation pane in Microsoft Word displays extra content that's not supposed to be there. Instead of showing just the headings for efficient document navigation, other content elements creep in, making navigation a bit confusing. But don't worry, there's a workaround to ensure only headings appear in the navigation pane. It requires a few tweaks in the font settings within Microsoft Word, and your document will be back to its navigational best: 11) A Comprehensive Guide To The Most Vital Windows 11 Keyboard Shortcuts You Need To KnowIn this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of Windows 11 keyboard shortcuts, unveiling a plethora of timesaving and productivity-boosting techniques that will elevate your computing experience. With our expertly curated list of keyboard shortcuts, you will unlock a new level of efficiency and convenience in navigating your Windows 11 or even your Windows 10 system: 12) Tweesecake. Condensing The Number Of Mentions In A Mastodon Session | Hartgen ConsultancyThe purpose of this very small set of JAWS scripts is to minimize the number of mentions spoken when using the Tweesecake application's primary window in a Mastodon session. The scripts were developed for my own use and have been tested with Windows10 and Windows11. You are very welcome to use them if you wish. Maybe at some point in the future they will not be necessary and they can just be thrown away. For the avoidance of doubt, these scripts do not function with global hotkeys: 13) 5 Free Dictation Tools To Use On Windows Or MacOSPrefer dictating text rather than typing? Here are some of the best free dictation tools you can use on your Windows or macOS machine: 14) Create a Chart in a Separate Worksheet in Excel | Sharon's ShortcutsEach Excel workbook can contain multiple worksheets. Worksheets contain sets of data, but can also contain a chart. The default chart in Excel is a column chart. To create a chart on a separate worksheet: 15) How To Use Google Docs On iPhone And iPad With Screen Readers And Braille Devices | Accessibility.comAccessibility has always been one of the unique selling points of Apple devices. In addition to having a wide range of built-in accessibility features, iPhones and iPads are also compatible with assistive devices like screen readers and Braille devices. This short guide will explain how to use Google Docs on iPhones and iPads with screen readers and Braille devices: 16) How To Set Up Computer Security For Your Parents | Malwarebytes LabsIf you want to tighten up your parents' home cybersecurity as much as possible, you've come to the right place. After all, you're no doubt the family IT person, and first point of contact if trouble arises: 17) We Cracked More Than 18,000 Passwords. Here Are Our Tips. | The Washington Post: Subscription RequiredHave you ever had "password rage"? You know, shouting at your computer screen, swearing or throwing a tantrum because you can't remember a password? If your answer is yes, you're not alone. Even computer security professionals suffer from it. In a 2015 poll at an IT security conference, one-third of respondents admitted to feeling this way. It's understandable. Being forced to create and remember a random string of letters, numbers and special characters for dozens of personal and professional accounts can be maddening. It inevitably leads to bad password practices: reusing the same password again and again for different accounts, writing passwords down, or worse, using easy-to-remember words — such as "password." And in implementing these bad practices, we could be opening the door for cybercriminals to gain access to our financial data or other personal information: 18) RAZ Mobility Launches Accessible and Innovative Smartphone for People Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired | Business WireRAZ Mobility has announced the launch of the SmartVision 3. This Google certified smartphone, manufactured by Kapsys, is designed specifically for individuals who are blind or visually impaired: 19) Mozilla Firefox 117 Beta Brings An Automatic Language Translator For Websites, And It Works Offline | ghacks.netMozilla Firefox is bringing an automatic translator for websites. The feature is currently available in Firefox 117 beta. This feature has existed in Chrome for ages, but unlike Google's browser, which sends the data to its servers, Firefox's automatic translation feature uses on-device translation. The latter is much better for your privacy, and works offline: 20) This Prosthetic Limb Actually Attaches to the Wearer's Nerves | Wired: Subscription RequiredThis prosthetic arm connects directly to the nervous system and gives the user fine control over the motions of individual fingers — just by thinking and trying to move: 21) When Will We Get Tactile Touch Screens? | How-To GeekTactile or haptic touch screens incorporate touch feedback for an immersive user experience. These screens, still in development, utilize technologies like electro-osmotic pumps to create physical-like buttons on the screen. Despite promising applications, there's no definitive timeline for their introduction into mainstream tech like smartphones, tablets, and car interfaces. The potential revolution in tactile feedback could revitalize the currently stagnant touchscreen technology market: 22) An Update On Thunderbird SyncHello Thunderbird family! First and foremost, we want to express our deepest appreciation for your patience. The road to Thunderbird 115 “Supernova” has been a long one, and we're confident you'll love the final result. If you're already using Thunderbird 115, you may have noticed a feature that is conspicuously absent: Thunderbird Sync: 23) Sao Mai Braille (SMB) 23.8 ReleasedSao Mai Center just released SMB 23.8, a free accessible braille translation software for text, math and music. Highlights in this release include: keep all applied styles in print when translating into Braille, apply styles in Braille document, rewrote functions to better handle Braille text translation, add new Malay and German language Braille tables, support Vietnamese math Braille translation, speak math equations in Spanish, updated to SM Music Braille library 23.7 with many new features, improvements and fixes: 24) NVDA 2023.2Beta1 Available For Testinghttps://www.nvaccess.org/post/nvda-2023-2beta1/ 25) Leasey Update Available | Hartgen Consultancy | Tech-VI List | David GoldfieldLeasey is a third party program which adds many features to JAWS or Fusion. While I can't endorse every product which gets mentioned on this list people who know a bit about me are aware that I make an exception when it comes to Leasey. I've been a user of Leasey since November of 2018 and I wouldn't want to use JAWS without it. The previous link will provide information on Leasey's capabilities and cost. You can download a demonstration version of the program and you can also order it online: 26) Audio Demo From Brian Hartgen: A Few Modifications To How JAWS Interacts With Tweesecake | Tech-VI List | David GoldfieldTweesecake is my preferred Mastodon client for Windows. The following audio file demonstrates some JAWS scripts containing a few nice modifications for how JAWS interacts with Tweesecake: 27) New NVDA Addon: Say Control Type Before Its Label | Pierre-Louis | Tech-VI ListA flexible add-on that allows NVDA to announce the type and state of the GUI controls before their label. The names of types and states can also be customized. The add-on supports checkboxes, radio buttons and checkable and radio menu items: 28) A Detailed Review Of The Nothing Phone 2 From A Blind User's Perspective | Accessible AndroidThis brief review would be focusing on the “Nothing Phone 2” since the original “nothing” phone wasn't made available in the States. In this brief review, I'll be looking at the following: Setup Screen and Language Selection. SIM Card Support. Your Information. Biometrics and optional stuff. Restoring your Apps. Software — Looking at the System Settings. The Glyph Interface and the Glyph Composer. Screen Reader Action Support. The Camera. Audio and Microphone. OS updates and Security Patches. Conclusion and My thoughts: 29) Fitbit App Gets A Major Redesign With An Emphasis On Simplicity | EngadgetIt's in beta now with an official release coming this Fall: 30) What Is A Smart TV: Everything You Need To KnowPublisher (Di Blasi): While this article is incredibly thorough it may not answer some of the most basic questions around what, exactly, makes a Smart TV, "smart." If you still have questions, this article might help. 31) Looking For A House Phone Or Cell Phone That Meets Your Needs? Hadley Workshops Have You CoveredChoosing a Home Phone: https://hadley.edu/workshops/staying-connected-series/staying-connected-choosing-a-home-phone 32) PS5 Beta Rolls Out With New Accessibility And Audio Options, Social Features, And UI EnhancementsWe're thrilled to roll out a new PS5 system software beta that introduces new accessibility features as well as audio options that allow 3D Audio powered by Tempest 3D AudioTech to be enjoyed on compatible Dolby Atmos-enabled HDMI devices such as sound bars, TVs, or home theater systems. The beta also includes more options to quickly find games and console tips, new ways to connect with other players and customize your multiplayer sessions, and support for larger-capacity M.2 SSDs (up to 8TB): 33) Freedom Scientific Training Events | August 2023The Freedom Scientific training team offers ongoing opportunities for you to join us in live training sessions and advance your skills. We're excited to announce our jam-packed August training schedule, where you're sure to find something that will help you at work, school, or play. If you have questions or need assistance with registration, email training@vispero.com 📧️. We also welcome your suggestions for future training events: 34) GoodMaps Newsletter for July 2023https://mailchi.mp/goodmaps/daqt42o0n5-13867647?e=ff290fc8ae 35) Accessibility.com Newsletter for July 2023https://www.accessibility.com/accessibility-news-july-2023-edition 36) AppleVis Unlimited: What's New and Noteworthy for July 2023https://www.applevis.com/newsletter/applevis-unlimited-whats-new-noteworthy-july-2023 37) NVDA In-Process For July 31, 2023https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-31st-july-2023/ 38) Paths To Literacy | Perkins School For The Blind Newsletter➜ Featured SurveysSubmit your access-related survey for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-survey.Closing: Ongoing | Surveys From APHSurveys 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: Closing: August 11, 2023 | Invitation to Participate in Research on Accessibility and Usability of Digital Libraries in the Mobile Environment | Universal Accessibility and Usability of Digital Libraries in the Mobile Environment (IRB: 23. 191)A research team comprising blind and sighted scholars at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee is investigating the accessibility and usability of digital libraries for users who are blind and visually impaired. The goal is to create digital library design guidelines to improve digital library design in the mobile environment, supporting blind and visually impaired people to effectively search for information online via mobile devices: Closing: August 11, 2023 | Seeking Blind And Low-Vision Adults With Diabetes For Diabetes Self-Management StudyDo you have diabetes and low vision or blindness? Insulin pens and pumps, continuous glucose monitoring systems, medications and other diabetes treatments are available for diabetes management. However, many of these devices were not designed for users with low vision or blindness and have serious accessibility problems. We want to support these users by learning more about how low vision/blind individuals manage their diabetes. Are you interested in participating in this study? Participation in this research involves completing a survey about diabetes management. Participation will last approximately 20 minutes. Participants will receive a $10 tango gift card for their time and effort. How can you find out more? Go directly to: ➜ Featured Podcast EpisodesSubmit your access-related Podcast Episode for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-podcast-episode.July 28, 2023 | Optima Braille Laptop Update & Your Feedback | DoubleTapToday on the show Steven and Shaun find out more about the upcoming Optima braille laptop device from one of the partners involved in its creation. Add Kushner from AccessMind joins the guys to talk about feedback they have been receiving that they intend to implement into the device and also what feedback they have been getting from competitors in the braille tech space. Also there's more feedback from you, in particular on the subjects of audio description, braille and literacy and also comments on the new Victor Reader Stream 3rd generation: July 28, 2023 | That Real Blind Tech Show Episode 34: NFB 2023 Resolution Recap, Everyone Can Do It Privately and AccessiblyJoin Allison, Brian, Ed and Jeanine as they recap and discuss most of this year's resolutions coming out of the NFB 2023 Conference. It is a hard hitting opinionated episode that will make you laugh and question what in the world are we doing with some of these resolutions: July 29, 2023 | Blind Android Users Podcast: Samsung 2023 Unpack Event And The Nothing 2 Phone ReviewFirst we tell our listeners that Accessible Android has become an independent English site. We then talk about the 34 fixes in android 14 beta 4.1. We discuss about all things in Samsung Unpack 2023. We review the nothing phone 2 and talk about it. In our tip of the week, john shows how to easily access google cast on a Samsung phone without installing a 3rd party settings app. Lina talks to us about how she got started with Android: July 30, 2023 | Living Blindfully Episode 241: The Wait Continues For Audible Support On The Victor Reader Stream 3, Remembering iPhone Apps From Years Past, And HumanWare And APH Update Us On The MonarchAugust 2, 2023 | Eyes on Success Episode 2331: Encore of 1813 Outtakes from Eyes On SuccessThey say that nothing is ever perfect. Fortunately, though, with a little extra work, most mistakes can be fixed. That even applies to the productions of Eyes On Success. Sit back and enjoy some laughs with hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey as they enjoy some Summer fun by sharing some humorous moments that never made it into the show: August 3, 2023 | Top Tech Tidbits Podcast for Thursday, August 3, 2023Tune in each week as we announce the Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits of the week. These 5 news items represent the most popular news and trends in access technology today, as voted on by Top Tech Tidbits readers: ➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and EventsSubmit your access-related Webinar, Training Course or Event for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-event.August 8, 2023 | Ask Sharky: Navigate Ribbons in MS Office with JAWS9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT August 8, 2023 | Disability Awareness and Etiquette | California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR)1PM PT, 2PM MT, 3PM CT, 4PM ET, 8PM GMT August 9, 2023 | Create Source Files: MS Word to PDF Remediation (Digital Accessibility Webinar) | Access Ingenuity10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT August 10, 2023 | RUBY 10: Beyond the Basics | Vispero9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT August 12, 2023 | YouTube | Technology User Group7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT August 14, 2023 through August 18, 2023 | 22nd Audio Description Institute | Audio Description Associates, LLC | Audio Description Project of the American Council of the Blind10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT August 16, 2023 | JAWS: Getting Help & Accessing Training Materials (Assistive Technology Webinar) | Access Ingenuity10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT August 22, 2023 | Tech It Out | Monthly Hadley Discussion Group5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12AM GMT Next Day August 23, 2023 | How to Create Accessible Videos (Digital Accessibility Webinar) | Access Ingenuity10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT August 30, 2023 | JAWS: Testing for Website Accessibility (Assistive Technology Webinar) | Access Ingenuity10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT September 21, 2023 | Inclusive Design 24Inclusive Design 24 (#id24) is a free 24-hour online event for the global community. It celebrates inclusive design and shares knowledge and ideas from analogue to digital, from design to development, from planners to practitioners, and everything and everyone in between: September 26, 2023 | Tech It Out | Monthly Hadley Discussion Group5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12AM GMT Next Day September 29, 2023 | Blindness and Mental Health Webinar | Accessible Pharmacy9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT October 13, 2023 | Blindness and Clinical Trials Webinar | Accessible Pharmacy9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT October 24, 2023 | Tech It Out | Monthly Hadley Discussion Group5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12AM GMT Next Day November 6, 2023 through November 10, 2023 | Accessing Higher Ground | Association on Higher Education And Disability (AHEAD)Accessible Media, Web and Technology Conference. Hilton Denver City Center, Denver, Colorado: November 28, 2023 | Tech It Out | Monthly Hadley Discussion Group5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 11PM GMT December 1, 2023 and December 2, 2023 | Blind Health Expo 2023 | Exhibitor and Attendee Registration Now OpenThe Blind Health Expo is the largest virtual event of healthcare information, products, services, and medication for individuals in the blind, low vision, and disability communities. Exhibitors can: Register for free. Interact with thousands of attendees. Showcase their products and services: December 26, 2023 | Tech It Out | Monthly Hadley Discussion Group5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 11PM GMT ➜ Directories1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directoryhttps://toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html 2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directoryhttps://toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html 3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directoryhttps://toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html 4) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directoryhttps://toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html ➜ Buy, Sell or TradeList your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5 USD by filling out this short form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-buy-sell-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 USD. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short form to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html. ➜ Sponsor Classified AdsSponsors may submit or update their Classified Advertisement at any time by submitting this short form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-sponsor-classified.Sponsor: Echobatix
Sponsor Since: July 20th 2023 Website: https://echobatix.com/ 🌐 App: Download the Echobatix App from the Apple App Store here. About: Echobatix develops accessibility products and indoor navigation systems for the blind, the DeafBlind, and those with low vision. Our technology complements the use of a cane or guide dog and your existing Orientation and Mobility (O&M) skills. Our first app is an accessibility tool for printed text, touch screens, kiosks, and signage. Read what's at the end of your finger. Speak to search for a word. Sponsor: Ayes.ai
➜ Classified Advertisement: Every Traffic Light Accessible With The OKO ApplicationAYES is happy to announce the launch of our new application OKO. OKO uses artificial intelligence and the back camera to recognize the pedestrian traffic light and inform the user of the walk, don't walk and the countdown state. We bring this state back to the user with three types of feedback, visual overlay, vibrations and audio feedback. The application does not rely on any adaptations to the traffic light and runs locally on the smartphone, this means that it works at every intersection. We always recommend to hold the phone at chest level with the camera pointing towards the direction that you want to cross. You can then rotate your chest between 10 to 15 degrees to locate the pedestrian traffic light. The moment we see that light the software immediately reacts. This helps to orient in the right direction and also stops you from veering off into traffic because the moment you veer off the feedback stops, you reorient and receive feedback to continue in the right direction. https://apps.apple.com/be/app/oko-by-ayes/id1583614988Sponsor Since: March 16th 2023 Website: https://ayes.ai/ 🌐 App: Download the OKO App from the Apple App Store here. Email: hello@ayes.ai 📧️ About: AYES was founded by three experienced AI engineers that are defining autonomous navigation for blind and visually impaired people. AYES.ai is the creator of the OKO App.
Simply point the back camera of the phone towards the intersection that you want to cross and the OKO application will instantly detect the traffic light and inform the user through audio and haptic feedback. The OKO application can provide multiple services for your company, city or your country, all independent of physical infrastructure. This can increase your accessibility to 100%, overnight. OKO provides an accessible traffic light at every intersection. And, best of all, all OKO data is completely anonymized, ensuring your personal privacy at all times. The OKO app is fully independent from infrastructure and does not require a Wi-Fi or Cellular connection to operate at full capacity. The algorithm runs locally on your device, meaning that it works consistently and reliably every single time. The application has been trained on more than 150,000 images and continues to improve. Download the app today. Sponsor: Sterling Adaptives, LLC
➜ Classified Advertisement: Limited Time Introductory Pricing On The New Victor Reader Stream 3!With the NEW Victor Reader Stream 3, it's so easy to take your books, music, and more wherever you go. Imagine being able to listen to the latest novels, magazines, or your favorite music, podcasts, and your own voice recordings, all in the palm of your hand. With its sleek, compact design and easy-to-grip edges, the digital media player gives you hours of listening wherever you are and a superior text-to-speech experience in multiple languages. Take advantage of our introductory pricing on the NEW Victor Reader Stream 3! Order today or call (415) 878-2922 📱️. Use promo code TOPTECH for Free Shipping! https://sterlingadaptives.com/products/humanware-victor-reader-stream-3rd-generation Sponsor Since: March 9th 2023 Website: https://sterlingadaptives.com/ 🌐 Shop: https://sterlingadaptives.com/collections/vision-products Phone: (415) 878-2922 📱️ Email: info@sterlingadaptives.com 📧️ Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time Social: Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | Instagram About: Based in California, Sterling Adaptives supplies the most technologically advanced equipment and software currently available. We serve those who are blind or have visual impairment and also others with disabilities. We have a showroom in Santa Rosa and can also meet in the comfort of your home. We supply a full range of computer hardware, software, peripherals, and assistive technology products. We are able to provide demonstrations, installations, troubleshooting, and ongoing product training. We work with private individuals, non-profit agencies, private organizations, educational establishments, and commercial enterprises. We help our customers fully realize their potential. We are known for providing you and your clients with the standards of service that you demand and that result in the right product at the right time and with the right backup service. We look forward to hearing from you and being afforded the opportunity to show you just how Sterling our service is! Sponsor: The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc.
Sponsor Since: December 29th 2022 Website: https://lhblind.org/ 🌐 Phone: (800) 914-7307 📱️ Fax: (206) 329-3397 ░ Contact Us: https://lhblind.org/contact-us/ About: The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. is a private, not-for-profit social enterprise providing employment, support, and training opportunities for people who are blind, deafblind, and blind with other disabilities. The Lighthouse has provided employment and support to people who are blind in our community since 1918. The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. is a successful manufacturing organization with over 60 years of experience in precision machining. We produce an array of machined parts and plastic injection molding for various aerospace manufacturers, as well as a host of office products and hydration equipment sold to the Federal Government and the U.S. Military. We also own and operate stores on military bases along the West Coast. Our products and services include: • Manufacturing: We are a successful manufacturing organization committed to making jobs accessible to individuals who are blind. Our manufacturing operations center on making quality products for the Federal Government under the AbilityOne Program and producing parts for aerospace manufacturers. • Managed Services: The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. offers a variety of services to our commercial, federal, and military customers. These include Contract Management Support (CMS) services for government contracting offices. • Base Supply Centers: We operate 12 AbilityOne Base Supply Centers (BSCs) that offer easy customer access to Lighthouse products, direct feedback and communication with customers, and employment opportunities for individuals who are blind in geographic areas not served by larger nonprofit agencies. Sponsor: WayAround
➜ Classified Advertisement: HURRY — Stock Up on WayTags Before Prices Increase on June 1!WayAround is the best way to label things if you're blind or have low vision. You just need the free mobile app and some WayTags® to label items in the kitchen, garden, closet, office & more. Prices on WayTags will increase on June 1, so stock up today on your favorite tags. Sponsor Since: January 5, 2023 Website: https://www.wayaround.com/ 🌐 General Sales & Support: (888) 898-4465 📱️ Business Sales & Support: (888) 898-4465 📱️ Email: connect@wayaround.com 📧️ About: 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. All the information you want with just a tap of your phone. No more waiting around to ask someone. You need just two things to get started: The free mobile app for iOS or Android and some of our smart WayTags®. Accessible labels for the blind, deafblind, and anyone with vision loss. Your biggest problem isn't poor eyesight. It's that so much of the information in the world is visual. But you shouldn't have to wait around for someone else to get the information you need. Or carry around a bulky, outdated device. There is a better way to get accurate and complete information every time. So you can reduce stress and gain independence. Download The App (Apple): https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/wayaround-tag-and-scan/id1294361140?mt=8 Download The App (Android): https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.wayaround.wayaround 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. 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: Fable
➜ Classified Advertisement: Learn Management Skills For Free. Get The Job You Want.Everyone deserves equal access to the internet which is why Fable works with people with disabilities who use assistive technologies like switch controls to improve the accessibility of websites and apps. Fable Pathways, a free, accessible, and on-demand skill-building program, is an extension of Fable's mission. Fable Pathways provides new opportunities for people with disabilities to gain the skills they need, from experts like Judy Heumann and Kelly Ford, to contribute to improving digital accessibility. 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: Clusiv
➜ Classified Advertisement: Looking For Blind Job-Seekers Wanting To Advance Their Salaries, Careers And Digital Accessibility For The BlindAre 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: Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022 Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐 About: As there are many challenges people in the blind community face in employment and education, Clusiv has built the world's first e-learning platform designed for the blind to provide the training, tools, and resources needed to remove barriers to the modern workforce. Our courses teach you occupational and technology skills you need towards employment. Plus, we are working to connect our graduates to internship and job opportunities. Our courses are remote, self-paced, and we provide support throughout your whole journey through our student success team, and even provide lifetime access to our courses so you can keep up to date as technology evolves. You can request Clusiv training through your vocational rehabilitation counselor and fill out the form in the link below on our website. If you are a counselor wanting to learn more about Clusiv for your clients, or an employer looking to hire Clusiv graduates, click the respective link below and fill out a form to get more info. ➜ Person Looking To Enroll In Clusiv Courses ➜ Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Looking To Learn More About Clusiv For Their Clients ➜ Employer Looking To Hire Clusiv Graduates Sponsor: Double Tap TV
➜ Classified Advertisement: Subscribe to the Double Tap PodcastDouble 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 📱️ 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.
➜ Classified Advertisement: 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: 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 📧️ About: HIMS, Inc. is a global manufacturer and distributor that has provided braille, magnification and accessible healthcare devices since 1999. Sponsor: Carroll Center for the Blind
➜ Classified Advertisement: Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the BlindLaunch 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: 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
➜ Classified Advertisement: Only $60/Year! BlindShell Classic 2 Now Integrates Sero for Accessible Audio Content & MoreFor just $60 a year until September 30th, 2023, users of the BlindShell Classic 2 phone can now leverage the robust Sero platform, creating an accessible, user-friendly experience for the visually impaired. Sero provides streaming radio, thousands of hours of audio content, news, forums, podcasts, and voice chat rooms, fostering an empowered community. Use the BlindShell's famous t9-driven interface, or ditch the keypad entirely and leverage Alexa on the BlindShell for hands-free access to your Sero content! This collaboration between BlindShell and Pneuma Solutions, Sero's developers, unlocks productivity features and entertainment options that enhance digital lifestyles. The future of accessible tech is here! Integrate the feature-rich Sero platform into your BlindShell device phone for only $60 a year! 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
➜ Classified Advertisement: Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille DisplaysOur 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: 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: Humanware
➜ Classified Advertisement: 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! Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021 Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐 Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️ 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
➜ Classified Advertisement: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured ProductsRevolution 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: GuideLights and Gadgets
➜ Classified Advertisement: July Convention SpecialsNew Watches! Announcing our partnership with Auguste Reymond of Switzerland, maker of the best Braille watches in the world. Their prestige line for both ladies and men, in gold and silver, have CZs as Braille dots, with 4 o'clock stem openings. GRAB BAGS. We have collected a lot of useful items that for one reason or another were never sold or are the last remaining from a popular item. We have $25 $50 and $100 bags, Each will have at least 4 items with twice the bag retail value. Our 60 inch locking titanium telescopic cane is on sale for $60. we also now can supply ball and teardrop rolling tips. We have new custom leather cases at a fraction of the cost of competitors for the Stream 3, Stream 2, SensePlayer, and the Blind shell phone. Purchase an Orbit Braille display and get one of our leather cases for free. If you are at ACB, come visit Barry and Lisa at Booths 25 and 26. Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020 Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐 For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at: For All Things Dog Contact Kae at: About: Our Scope of Products: We specialize in 3 lines of products, all intended to assist in access to adaptive electronics, enhance experiences for guide dog teams, and offer practical solutions for organization and travel with a variety of leather bags, pouches, and backpacks. Then there are the random products that are included, just for fun! We enjoy working with our customers 1-on-1 to their money is well spent and not wasted on something they may not use. In thinking about our customers and whether we will carry a product our guiding motto is that it must be: practical, affordable, simple, tested, and accessible (the pasta principle) and it seems to work very well. What We Do: We bring our business either via zoom, phone, or to your conference or convention, to give each customer a chance for questions and where possible, "hands on" evaluation of the merchandise. Kae and I test and use each product as blind users before we put it in our catalog. In the case of products for guide and service dogs, our own three guides, Thor, Debra and Melody, are engaged in the process of evaluating the usefulness, durability, and/or fun of the product. We want each of our products to be useful, accessible, 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
➜ Classified Advertisement: Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 HubIf 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: Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020 Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐 Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️ Email: support@atguys.com 📧️ Skype: atguys ✆ X (Formerly 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: Glidance
Sponsor Since: July 20th 2023 Website: https://glidance.io/ 🌐 About: Fun and easy, you'll just love going out. You walk with confidence, and Glide will simply guide you where you want to go. Just Grab Your Glide And Walk With Confidence Portable, Light And Versatile Easy To Use Affordable Quick To Learn Feel Confident Get started with Glide today at: https://glidance.io/. Your Name Here
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In addition to serving as an Editor to Top Tech Tidbits, Jenna also serves as an Editor to the Access Information News Publication and runs her own advocacy foundation.
Jenna also serves as a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) for Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd.
Jenna's son was born blind and she is always seeking new and innovative ways to empower him through technology.
Jenna Lang, PMP
Editor (2020-Present)
Top Tech Tidbits
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com 🌐
Editor (2022-Present)
Access Information News
The Week's News in Access Information
https://accessinformationnews.com 🌐
Project Management Professional (2022 - Present)
Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd.
Innovative ideas. Solutions that perform.
https://mvsltd.com 🌐
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A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication: https://mvsltd.com
Editorial Contributor: Stephen (Alex) Marositz (Volunteer)
Editor Since: October 7th 2021
Location: Los Angeles, California
Time Zone: Pacific Standard Time (PST/PDT) (GMT-6/GMT-7)
In addition to serving as an Editor to Top Tech Tidbits, Alex is also an Accessible Technology Coordinator for California State University, Dominguez Hills. He has worked in accessibility in higher education since 2005, is certified by the International Association of Accessibility Professionals, and in his spare time plays for the San Gabriel Valley Panthers Beep Baseball Team. He can be reached on twitter at: @samarositz.
Stephen (Alex) Marositz
Editor (2021-Present)
Top Tech Tidbits
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com 🌐
Accessible Technology Coordinator
California State University, Dominguez Hills
https://csudh.edu 🌐
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A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication: https://mvsltd.com
Editorial Contributor: Ben Moxey (Volunteer)
Editor Since: January 1st 2022
Location: Newcastle, Australia
Time Zone: Australia Eastern Standard Time (AEST/AEDT) (GMT+10)
In addition to serving as an Editor to Top Tech Tidbits, Ben is also an Access and Technology Advisor for Guide Dogs, New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory (NSW/ACT).
Hi, Tidbits readers, my name's Ben Moxey and I'm based in Newcastle, Australia. I'm really happy to be part of the Tidbits Team and look forward to supporting this valuable publication.
A bit about me and how I came to work in the BVI area. I grew up with very low vision in one eye due to retinal issues and relied on magnification and speech throughout school. They also tried to teach me Braille, but let's just say that I wasn't the best student! I was determined to use my remaining vision, no matter how impractical it was becoming.
When I was 20, the other retina came off and I've now been totally blind for about 21 years. This is when my love for assistive technology, and technology in general, really kicked in. I'll be honest, I was a bit of a computer nerd anyway, but I could quickly see how technology was my key to enhanced independence and lifestyle. I embraced screen readers, early smart phones and mobility aids. I even finally realised the huge value of Braille and finished off the course, though I'm still pretty slow!
Long story short (not one of my strong points), I've worked in the BVI area for 12 years with much of that spent reviewing, recommending and teaching assistive technology that suits the individual. I'm currently a proud employee of Guide Dogs NSW/ACT where I was the Practice Lead for the assistive technology service, and I've now moved into an Access and Technology Advisor role. Basically, this involves a strong focus on accessibility and technology innovation.
Feel free to look me up on LinkedIn, but I'll warn you in advance that I haven't given my profile the recommended attention!
All the best and happy reading!
Ben Moxey
Editor (2022-Present)
Top Tech Tidbits
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com 🌐
Access and Technology Advisor
Guide Dogs, New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory (NSW/ACT)
https://nsw.guidedogs.com.au 🌐
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A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication: https://mvsltd.com
Editorial Contributor: David Woodbridge (Volunteer)
Volunteer Editorial Contributor Since: February 6, 2023
Location: Central Coast, New South Wales, Australia
Time Zone: Australia Eastern Standard Time (AEST/AEDT) (GMT+10)
In addition to serving as an Editor to Top Tech Tidbits, David also serves as an Editor to the Access Information News Publication and is also the National Commercial Assistive Technology Advisor for Vision Australia where he has worked since 1990. Over this time he has assisted people who are blind or vision impaired in their home, education, and work settings to take advantage of the benefits of using assistive and main stream technology.
In the last seventeen years, he has also been involved with evaluating technology for use by people who are blind or vision impaired covering both low and high tech equipment (including Microsoft, Samsung, Google, Amazon, and Apple). David is also one of the key spokespersons for Vision Australia relating to technology.
He has been an Apple Ambassador for Apple Australia since 2009 with a group of other Ambassadors / Apple Distinguished Educators (ADE)'s covering the range of Apple's Accessibility solutions throughout Australia.
David produces a range of podcasts (since 2011) covering Apple and other technologies which are distributed on his own podcast (http://davidwoodbr.podbean.com). In addition, he also has a regular Talking Tech program (since 2013) which can be heard every Tuesday at 4:30 Eastern Summer Time on Vision Australia Radio Melbourne (available online) or via https://omny.fm/shows/talking-tech-vision-australia-radio
David also runs a weekly Tech Monday where people can chat about assistive and main stream technology, share information, and any tips and tricks.
David lost his sight when he was 8 years old and had to learn Braille. Since then, he completed high school, went to Sydney University receiving a Social Work degree, spent 4 years drug and alcohol counselling, and then moved into his current job.
As a person who is blind, David believes that as a user of the technology that he recommends to others, that he is well situated to look at the strengths and shortcomings of the assistive technology that he comes across in both his professional and personal life, in particular, mainstream technology that is accessible.
X (Formerly Twitter): @dwoodbridge
Mastodon: woody@dragonscave.space
iSee Podcast: https://davidwoodbr.podbean.com
Vision Australia Radio Talking Tech: https://omny.fm/shows/talking-tech-vision-australia-radio
In addition to his weekly contributions to Top Tech Tidbits and Access Information News, David's regularly occurring activities are his weekly tech radio show, bi-monthly exploring tech webinars for Vision Australia, his iSee podcast when something of note grabs his attention, and the weekly Tech Monday chat sessions.
David Woodbridge
Editorial Contributor (2023-Present)
Top Tech Tidbits
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com 🌐
Editorial Contributor (2023-Present)
Access Information News
The Week's News in Access Information
https://accessinformationnews.com 🌐
National Commercial Assistive Technology Advisor (1990 - Present)
Vision Australia
Live the life you choose. We're here to support all Australians who are blind or have low vision.
https://www.visionaustralia.org/ 🌐
Email: editor@toptechtidbits.com 📧️
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A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication: https://toptechtidbits.com
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Founded in 2004, Top Tech Tidbits is the world's leading not-for-profit access technology publication that reaches over 15,000 blind, low vision, deaf, hard of hearing, deafblind, neurodivergent and/or disabled professionals, educators and enthusiasts, all over the world, each week. Subscribe here. Review the most recent issues here. Access Technology broadly encompasses technologies that enable access to information and communication systems for persons with disabilities. Adaptive Technology is a subset of Access Technology designed to assist individuals in performing tasks that might otherwise be challenging due to their particular disabilities. Assistive Technology includes any device, software, or equipment that helps people work around their challenges. Top Tech Tidbits is a Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication. Publisher: Aaron Di Blasi. Contributing Editors: John Hanlin, Jenna Lang, Stephen (Alex) Marositz, Ben Moxey, and David Woodbridge. Top Tech Tidbits is a sponsor and reader supported publication.
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