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

Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, August 17, 2023 - Volume 924

The Week's News in Access Technology
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A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
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Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.

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This Week's Featured Advertisement: Webinar: Equip Your Home And Empower Your Health: Exploring Accessible Home Health Aids For People Who Are Blind Or Visually Impaired | August 23, 2023 | 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 11PM GMT | The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc.

A hand has placed five blocks on a table. Each block shows a different accessible home health solution. The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. logo sits in the bottom left corner.

Join The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. for an interactive webinar on inclusive and accessible healthcare solutions. We'll take a virtual trip to the pharmacy to explore accessible prescriptions, home health tests, blood pressure monitors, talking thermometers, and much more. We'll even explore an accessible way to fill out healthcare forms and review lab results from your doctor's office. Take greater control of your health and join us for this engaging and interactive session. You won't want to miss it!
https://thelighthousefortheblindinc.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN__mHoW19cQLqNMiTZHBOeCg#/registration


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, Glidance, The Accessibility Guy and Wordvoyance.


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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.) JAWS Power Tip: How To Use Selection Mode On A Web Page To Select A Table | Freedom Scientific

You can use F8 on a web page to select elements like entire tables. This enables you to quickly select and copy information. Here's how:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/183.html

B.) 10 Smart Tips and Features for Effective Zoom Calls

Many of us have used Zoom, but few know about its most effective features. With these tips, you can create the best Zoom experience for everyone:
https://www.makeuseof.com/smart-tips-features-effective-zoom-calls/

C.) 3 Essential Windows Tools For Troubleshooting (And How To Use Them) | ZDNet

If your PC is misbehaving, there's a good chance that one of these free tools can help you figure out why. And they're all included with every Windows installation:
https://www.zdnet.com/article/3-essential-windows-tools-for-troubleshooting-and-how-to-use-them/

D.) Using AirPods As A Hearing Aid | Daring Fireball | John Gruber

Apple can't bill them as hearing aids for regulatory reasons, but I keep seeing reports from people who are hard of hearing who find AirPods Pro to be remarkable as audio accessibility devices:
https://daringfireball.net/linked/2023/07/24/airpods-as-hear-aids

E.) Please Don't Rain — An Accessible and Unique Weather Experience

The Please Don't Rain app is a unique weather app with a refreshing approach — no location access needed to fetch your forecast. Say goodbye to battery-drain. With its sleek simplicity, Please Don't Rain proves that less is truly more:
https://overhereconsulting.net/2023/07/31/please-dont-rain-an-accessible-and-unique-weather-experience/

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6) AI Updates

Skip this Tidbit to skip all updates on AI.

A) Researchers Discover New Vulnerability in Large Language Models | Carnegie Mellon University | Catherine Getchell

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University's School of Computer Science (SCS), the CyLab Security and Privacy Institute, and the Center for AI Safety in San Francisco have uncovered a new vulnerability, proposing a simple and effective attack method that causes aligned language models to generate objectionable behaviors at a high success rate:
https://www.cmu.edu/news/stories/archives/2023/july/researchers-discover-new-vulnerability-in-large-language-models

B) Pushing Boundaries Beyond the Five Senses with Artificial Intelligence | Equal Entry

Close your eyes and visualize a loved one. Can you see the person's facial features? Can you visualize them with eyes open, closed, or both? Someone who experiences extremely vivid imagery may have a condition called hyperphantasia. For those like Joe Devon who cannot create a mental image in their minds, it's aphantasia. People who have aphantasia don't realize they have this. Joe would like to be able to visualize his parents. Is the lack of being able to create mental images a disability?
https://equalentry.com/accessibility-artificial-intelligence-senses/

C) AI Image-to-Image Translation: The Key to Unlocking Visual Communication | Fagen Wasanni Technologies

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been revolutionizing various sectors, from healthcare to transportation, and now it is making significant strides in the field of visual communication. AI image-to-image translation, a remarkable development in the realm of AI, is poised to redefine the way we interact with visual data, unlocking new possibilities and enhancing our understanding of the world around us:
https://fagenwasanni.com/ai/ai-image-to-image-translation-the-key-to-unlocking-visual-communication/1144/

7) Apple Updates

Skip this Tidbit to skip all updates on Apple.

A) Exploring Assistive Access | Bas' Blog

I've been meaning to explore Assistive Access, a new accessibility feature announced a few days ahead of this year's Global Accessibility Awareness Day. It has taken a bit of time, as it didn't seem to be available in the simulator when the first beta came around, and then life happened... but I was finally able to set it up on my iPad and try it out, and I wanted to share my experience and findings here. Not in the loop on Assistive Access? Beyond Apple's announcement earlier this year, there's an awesome WWDC session on Assistive Technology by none other than Allen Whearry. Note that Assistive Access is currently still beta software, and may have bugs that I therefore won't judge too harshly:
https://www.basbroek.nl/exploring-assistive-access

B) Yes, iOS 17 Is Changing Where The 'End Call' Button Is Located | 9to5Mac

A change that Apple introduced with the first beta of iOS 17 back in June is going viral this week. As part of a number of changes to the Phone app and the calling experience, Apple has relocated the positioning of the red "End" button. The change, perhaps unsurprisingly, is drawing quite a bit of criticism on social media:
https://9to5mac.com/2023/08/10/ios-17-end-call-button-change/

8) JAWS Power Tip: How To Create A Desktop Shortcut To A Folder, File, Or Web Page | Freedom Scientific

You can create a desktop shortcut to a folder, File, or web page so it is easy to access. Before you begin, we recommend copying the path of the item to your clipboard so you don't need to search for it during the process of creating your shortcut:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/184.html

9) Are You Being Tracked by an AirTag? Here's How to Check | Wired: Subscription Required

If you're worried that one of Apple's trackers is following you without consent, try these tips:
https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-find-airtags/

10) Install Windows 11 Without All The Annoying Bloatware With This Trick | PC World

It's all thanks to a weird Windows bug.
https://www.pcworld.com/article/2027453/how-to-install-windows-11-without-annoying-bloatware-in-just-a-few-clicks.html

11) A Beginner's Guide to 3D Printing for TSVIs | Paths To Literacy

An introduction to making 3D prints for the visually impaired:
https://www.pathstoliteracy.org/a-beginners-guide-to-3d-printing-for-tsvis/

12) Using Kurzweil 3000 Automator: A Step-by-Step Guide | The Accessibility Guy

Are you looking to simplify the conversion of multiple PDF files at once? Today, I'm going to guide you through using the Kurzweil 3000 Automator, a vital tool for this process. Let's explore how easy it can be:
https://theaccessibilityguy.com/using-kurzweil-3000-automator-a-step-by-step-guide/

13) How To Speed Up Windows 11: Top 10 Ways | ghacks.net

Publisher (Di Blasi): I've been building and rebuilding PCs in one form or another for more than 30 years now. And not just my own but client PCs as well. And I will say this. If you want a PC to run at or close to its technical potential speed limit for as long as possible, there is only one solution. A clean install of the OS with absolutely no bloatware or unnecessary software included. Then update both the OS and system-wide drivers at the end of each day. Every day. Leave the machine on 24/7 so that it can download updates and perform background maintenance during no-peak times. Never use hibernation or sleep if you can avoid them. Limit what you install to what you need by monitoring startup items and be sure to restart the machine at least once every 12 hours. Maintain this behavior and you can keep a PC at or near its theoretical speed limit for years.
Ghacks.net: When activated by default, a number of Windows options and functions can significantly reduce your PC's performance. If you want to know how to speed up Windows 11, keep reading our guide because we will give you some of the easiest yet effective ways to improve your experience:
https://www.ghacks.net/2023/08/14/how-to-speed-up-windows-11-top-10-ways/

14) How To Sort Data in an Excel Spreadsheet | Sharon's Shortcuts

One of the most useful features in Excel is the Sort feature. It is very easy to sort data, you don't have to select anything. Just position on the column that you want to sort by in your set of data and:
https://sharons-shortcuts.ie/sort-data-in-an-excel-spreadsheet/

15) Windows Key Not Working? Try Fixing it With These Tips | How-To-Geek

If the Windows key stops working you'll lose access to some handy shortcuts:
https://www.howtogeek.com/windows-key-not-working/

16) How To Turn A PDF Into An Audiobook Or Have Your Computer Read It Out | iDownloadBlog

There are several ways to convert a PDF into an audiobook or have your computer read it out loud to you. In this article, we will go over some of the methods that can help you convert your PDFs into an audiobook or use text-to-speech software to read them aloud:
https://www.idownloadblog.com/2023/03/31/how-to-turn-pdf-into-audio/

17) NVDA 2023.2beta3 Available For Testing

https://www.nvaccess.org/post/nvda-2023-2beta3/

18) Canva PDFs Are Not Accessible | The Accessibility Guy

This post aims to explore how Canva PDFs are not accessible to people with disabilities. It seems like such a basic need at this point for any modern website to allow for exporting with a structure in place. This simply is not the case for Canva PDFs:
https://theaccessibilityguy.com/canva-pdfs-are-not-accessible/

19) LG 'Puts Focus On Accessibility' With Introduction Of New Universal UP Kit, Smart Cottage | Forbes: Subscription Required

Korea-based electronics giant LG has announced two new products that it says have been designed for all: the Universal UP Kit and the Smart Cottage. In a nutshell, both products were designed to make the home a more accessible — and very much modularly so — place for everyone. Both products will be shown at this year's IFA show in Berlin, Germany:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/stevenaquino/2023/08/15/lg-puts-focus-on-accessibility-with-introduction-of-new-universal-up-kit-smart-cottage/?sh=6d2832974bfe

20) VO Starter: The First App To Teach Blind And Low Vision Users To Use The iPhone And iPad Is Back With All New Content | AppleVis

VO Starter teaches new blind and visually impaired iOS users how to use their device with Apple's built in screen reader, VoiceOver:
https://www.applevis.com/apps/ios/education/vo-starter

21) Franklin Language Master LM-6000SE User Manual (38 pages)

Those who remember or who still own this product may find this of interest:
https://www.manualslib.com/products/Franklin-Language-Master-Lm-6000se-5979765.html

22) Duxbury Braille Translator: DBT 12.7 for the Mac is Now Shipping

Duxbury Systems leads the world in software for braille. The Duxbury Braille Translator (DBT) is used by virtually all of the world's leading braille publishers. No one supports more languages than Duxbury Systems. DBT supports over 180 languages in either uncontracted or contracted (when such rules exist) braille. Their software can produce contracted and uncontracted literary, mathematic, and technical braille:
https://www.duxburysystems.com/

23) How To Adapt Puzzle Games For Low Vision | Veroniiiica With Four Eyes

When I was in elementary school, my parents would buy large print word search and other puzzle books that would keep me entertained for hours at home or on a long drive. Over time, the font size of the large print puzzle books has become more difficult or impossible for me to read, so I started coming up with ways to adapt puzzle games and access large print word searches, large print crossword puzzles, and other large print games so that I can still enjoy them with assistive technology. Here are my tips for how to adapt puzzle games for low vision using technology:
https://veroniiiica.com/how-to-adapt-puzzle-games-for-low-vision/

24) Why Do Android Devices Get Overheated? Is It Something To Be Afraid Of? | Accessible Android

Android devices, like any electronic devices, can sometimes become overheated during use. In this post, we will explore why Android devices may get overheated, the potential risks associated with overheating, and whether it is something to be afraid of.
https://accessibleandroid.com/why-android-devices-get-overheated-and-is-it-something-to-be-afraid-of/

25) Best Practices For TV User Interface Accessibility | Tetra Logical

TV set-top boxes and streaming devices are in ever-increasing popularity and must be accessible so that everyone can watch what they want. In this post, I've reviewed existing standards, guidelines, principles, and requirements to create some best practices for designing and developing user interfaces for streaming devices and the TVs themselves. We'll be focusing on user interface (UI) design and how to support people with a variety of disabilities:
https://tetralogical.com/blog/2023/08/09/tv-best-practices/

26) Why Do Most Free Android Apps Come Loaded With Ads? Ads And User Experience In Terms Of Accessibility | Accessible Android

We all like free apps, but we don't like to be annoyed by ads. The Play Store contains a lot of apps and games that can be downloaded and used for free. Usually, those apps and games have ads in them. You may wonder why having to deal with ads is the norm when an app is offered for free:
https://accessibleandroid.com/why-do-most-free-android-apps-come-loaded-with-ads/

27) A Review Of The Chaoyuan L90 Hybrid Shortwave/4G/Internet Radio | The Swing Post

It is an awkward era for radio receivers. Although technology becomes more and more advanced and increasingly sophisticated radios are made, there are fewer and fewer stations to listen to. But hardcore radio hobbyists, mostly hams and shortwave listeners, would not give up the hobby. They continue to look for and enjoy stations among noises in the airwaves. Although Internet radios have been around for a long time, I never thought seriously about them. Perhaps I was stubborn, but in my mind, radios were noises and noises were radios and it's the stations among the noises that I enjoyed. Receivers without noises were hardly real radios:https://swling.com/blog/2023/08/guest-post-a-review-of-the-chaoyuan-l90-hybrid-shortwave-4g-internet-radio/

28) Returning To VMWare's Fusion On An M1 Mac | Kelly Ford | The Idea Place

VMWare recently announced a 2023 technical preview for Fusion on silicon-based Macs. I didn't have success with earlier previews on that platform with Fusion so have been using Parallels for now. This was a good opportunity to try Fusion again. My efforts this time around were successful. I've now created multiple VMs under Fusion on an M1 MacBook Pro. Here is what I had to do:
https://theideaplace.net/returning-to-vmwares-fusion-on-an-m1-mac/

29) NV Access In-Process August 11, 2023

https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-11th-august-2023/


➜ Featured Surveys

Submit your access-related survey for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-survey.


Closing: Ongoing | 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/

Closing August 25, 2023 | Photo Privacy Management Accessibility Study

Would you like to participate in a paid research study to improve the accessibility of photo applications? The University of Washington, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and University of Colorado Boulder are researching ways to design accessible privacy preserving features in photo applications. We are recruiting blind people with experience taking photos for this research project. If you meet our recruitment criteria, we will invite you to take part in a survey study and a 2-hour session where you will try out a screen-reader-based application for detecting and removing private content in photos. Each participant will be compensated with a $65 Amazon gift card. Please feel free to forward this to anyone who you think may be interested. To participate, please first fill out a screening survey in the following link:
https://forms.gle/GCBHqJLBuBVsTLZr7


Submit your access-related Podcast Episode for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-podcast-episode.


August 9, 2023 | AppleVis Extra #95: An Interview with Jianfeng Wu: Exploring the World through Sound with VoiceVista

In this episode of AppleVis Extra, Thomas Domville talks with Jianfeng Wu about VoiceVista, an iOS app that is essential for the blind and low vision community:
https://www.applevis.com/podcasts/applevis-extra-95-interview-jianfeng-wu-exploring-world-through-sound-voicevista

August 11, 2023 | Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 140: Android 14 Beta 5, and Smart Vision 3

Android Basics: We highlight the Accessibility change found in the Android14Beta5 among the 39 fixes found in this beta. We also highlighted the fact that the One UI6Beta comes with Talkback 14.0. Review Of The Smartvision3 From Raz Mobility. Jerry Jicha from RAZ Mobility. Reviews the "SmartVision3 Phone." Multiple Unboxing Of Samsung Devices. John Dyer unboxes three devices from Samsung in the way of the: Galaxy Tab-S9, Galaxy Watch6Classic and the Galaxy Z-Flip5. Android Journey Story: Our guest from RAZ Mobility, Jerry Jicha treats us to his journey through Android, going back to the early days of Android. Jerry Jicha has a podcast that can be found here. Android 14 Beta 5 Release Notes | Raz Mobility | Smart Vision3 Phone | Episode:
https://youtube.com/blindandroidusers/videos

August 13, 2023 | Episode 243: Critical Braille Bugs Remain As The iOS 17 Release Looms, An Update From Orbit Research And AccessMind, And Can A Horse Be Your Guide?

https://www.livingblindfully.com/episode-243critical-braille-bugs-remain-as-the-ios-17-release-looms-an-update-from-orbit-research-and-accessmind-and-can-a-horse-be-your-guide/

August 16, 2023 | Eyes on Success Episode 2333: The Sky Is the Limit — A Skydiving Adventure

Zach Tidwell is a blind military veteran who enjoys a variety of physical activities such as snowboarding, ski biking, mountain biking, rock-climbing, white-water kayaking, jiu-jitsu, rafting, and recently, skydiving. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Zach about skydiving without sight and how it compared to skydiving before he lost his sight:
http://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show_notes_2333.htm

August 17, 2023 | Top Tech Tidbits Podcast for Thursday, August 17, 2023

Tune 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:
https://apple.co/3ODv8oV


Submit your access-related Webinar, Training Course or Event for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-event.


August 17, 2023 | Manage Google Calendar with JAWS | Freedom Scientific

9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT
Software Webinar: Manage Google Calendar with JAWS. We'll provide an overview of navigating Google Calendar with JAWS, plus show you how to create events, access settings, and change views. Zoom conferencing platform. Register for this webinar, which offers ACVREP credits to those who attend the live webinar. Registration link:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_PPfT8CpnRf-PxRGoPbpL7w

August 22, 2023 | Tech It Out | Monthly Hadley Discussion Group

11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT
4th Tuesday of every month at 7:00 PM CT. Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.
https://hadley.edu/discussion-groups/tech-it-out

August 22, 2023 | The Current State of Accessibility: An ARC Evaluation of the Top Websites | TPGi

9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT
This webinar reports on the most common accessibility errors, providing insight into the current makeup of web content and, more than that, how websites are built today. Gain the next-level ability to understand your site's web accessibility in the context of the larger web. The results are stratified across industries and by estimated web traffic, business size, and more. Backed by real data, attendees gain the ability to report on their website's accessibility in a new way — by rank rather than in purely technical terms. Most importantly, this systemic accessibility evaluation provides a picture of the current user experience for people with disabilities in the online world. Join us to learn where your website ranks in this evaluation. Together, we consider the question: what is a "good" accessibility score? This webinar is 30 minutes. Stay after the call for our 30-minute Q and A:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-august-22-current-state-of-accessibility-arc-evaluation/

August 22, 2023 | Ask Sharky: Use ChatGPT with JAWS

9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT
We'll show you how to interact with ChatGPT on the web using JAWS. Zoom conferencing platform and Clubhouse. Join via Zoom or download the Clubhouse app from iOS App Store or Google Play to participate on your mobile device. Zoom link:
https://zoom.us/j/7278038000?_x_zm_rtaid=JLrcZJLfR0CGeSOmS9Dn3g.1605555524846.894574b70d1d4051defcc9cb567d21aa&_x_zm_rhtaid=935#success

August 23, 2023 | Webinar: Equip Your Home And Empower Your Health: Exploring Accessible Home Health Aids For People Who Are Blind Or Visually Impaired | The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc.

4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 11PM GMT
Join The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. for an interactive webinar on inclusive and accessible healthcare solutions. We'll take a virtual trip to the pharmacy to explore accessible prescriptions, home health tests, blood pressure monitors, talking thermometers, and much more. We'll even explore an accessible way to fill out healthcare forms and review lab results from your doctor's office. Take greater control of your health and join us for this engaging and interactive session. You won't want to miss it!
https://thelighthousefortheblindinc.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN__mHoW19cQLqNMiTZHBOeCg#/registration

August 23, 2023 | How to Create Accessible Videos (Digital Accessibility Webinar) | Access Ingenuity

10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM 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:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85965137306?pwd=R3dDeUJZaEp3Q2xJbmpmRkxUVTNKUT09&mc_cid=1c5c3cbecd&mc_eid=90429c1885#success

August 29, 2023 — August 30, 2023 | Web Accessibility in Mind Conference

The second annual Web Accessibility in Mind Conference is presented by WebAIM in partnership with Pope Tech. This virtual conference will provide conference participants with content that will help them mature their practice in digital accessibility. Our goals include: Provide a diverse range of perspectives from a diverse group of speakers. Share solutions to accessibility challenges. Give advice and guidance that helps our participants to actively contribute to providing more accessible digital spaces. Bring together a cross section of public and private sector technology professionals from organizations large and small. The Web Accessibility in Mind Conference will be held online on August 29-30, 2023 from 12pm-5:10pm US Eastern Time (with a one-hour break at 2:10pm) each day. Register:
https://conference.webaim.org/register

August 30, 2023 | JAWS: Testing for Website Accessibility (Assistive Technology Webinar) | Access Ingenuity

10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT
An essential part of ensuring that a website is accessible is to test the site with a screen reader. Join Michael Parker (Web Accessibility Specialist and DHS Trusted Tester) and Marisa Church (Assistive Technology Specialist and Expert Screen Reader) as they demonstrate how to test a website with the JAWS screen reader. Learning Outcomes: Understand the importance of testing websites with a screen reader. Learn how to test a website with a screen reader. Learn the difference between using the Say All command and Tab to navigate a webpage. Learn about basic JAWS settings required for testing. How to use the Virtual HTML Features and Text Viewer in JAWS for quicker testing:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88477062027?pwd=c0lPNVdYSmtJakxLUUVpekZjZzd6UT09&mc_cid=1c5c3cbecd&mc_eid=90429c1885

September 21, 2023 | Inclusive Design 24

Inclusive 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:
https://inclusivedesign24.org/2023/

September 26, 2023 | Tech It Out | Monthly Hadley Discussion Group

5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12AM GMT Next Day
4th Tuesday of every month at 7:00 PM CT. Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.
https://hadley.edu/discussion-groups/tech-it-out

September 29, 2023 | Blindness and Mental Health Webinar | Accessible Pharmacy

9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT
Please join us as we discuss mental health in the blind and low vision community. Expert presenters will discuss: Psychology and therapy for the blind community. Medications and genomic testing. Peer and community support resources. 988 Mental Health Hotline information:
https://accessiblepharmacy.com/blindness-and-mental-health-webinar/

October 4, 2023 | FEMA Nationwide EAS Test

11:20AM PT, 12:20PM MT, 1:20PM CT, 2:20PM ET, 6:20PM GMT
FEMA, in coordination with the FCC, will conduct a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) this fall. The national test will consist of two portions, testing WEA and EAS capabilities. Both tests are scheduled to begin at 2:20pm ET on Wednesday, October 4. The EAS portion of the test will be sent to radios and televisions. This will be the seventh nationwide EAS test:
https://news.radio-online.com/cgi-bin/rol.exe/headline_id=b17534

October 13, 2023 | Blindness and Clinical Trials Webinar | Accessible Pharmacy

9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT
Please join us as we discuss clinical trials for the blind and low vision community with these expert presenters: Ben Shaberman, VP Science Communications Foundation Fighting Blindness. Marin Allen, former Deputy Director of Communications, National Institute of Health. Maggie Cashion, Clinical Research Manager, Prism Vision Group:
https://accessiblepharmacy.com/blindness-and-clinical-trials-webinar/

October 24, 2023 | Tech It Out | Monthly Hadley Discussion Group

5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12AM GMT Next Day
4th Tuesday of every month at 7:00 PM CT. Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.
https://hadley.edu/discussion-groups/tech-it-out

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:
https://accessinghigherground.org/

November 28, 2023 | Tech It Out | Monthly Hadley Discussion Group

5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 11PM GMT
4th Tuesday of every month at 7:00 PM CT. Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.
https://hadley.edu/discussion-groups/tech-it-out

December 1, 2023 and December 2, 2023 | Blind Health Expo 2023 | Exhibitor and Attendee Registration Now Open

The 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:
https://accessiblepharmacy.com/blind-health-expo-2023/

December 26, 2023 | Tech It Out | Monthly Hadley Discussion Group

5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 11PM GMT
4th Tuesday of every month at 7:00 PM CT. Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.
https://hadley.edu/discussion-groups/tech-it-out


➜ Directories


1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory

https://toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html

2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory

https://toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html

3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory

https://toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html

4) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory

https://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 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.


Sponsors may submit or update their Classified Advertisement at any time by submitting this short form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-sponsor-classified.


Sponsor: The Accessibility Guy


The Accessibility Guy logo.

➜ Classified Advertisement: Expert Document Accessibility Remediation: Compliant, Multilingual, & Inclusive

Unlock the power of inclusivity with our specialized document accessibility remediation services. With over 100,000 documents transformed and compliant with standards such as Section 508, WCAG 2.1 AA, HHS, AODA, and PDF/UA, we are your go-to accessibility experts. No document is too complex!

What To Expect:

Screen Reader Testing: We test all documents with industry-leading tools like JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, CommonLook Validator, and PAC3.

Turnaround Time: Our standard time is 5 business days. Expedited options are available.

Forms Handling: We specialize in making static PDFs accessible to screen readers.

Languages Supported: Offering remediation in over 50 languages.

File Types Supported: Word, PDF, PowerPoint.

Custom Reports: Available for an additional fee.

Learn More: https://theaccessibilityguy.com/document-remediation/

Sponsor Since: August 3, 2023 Calendar icon.

Website: https://theaccessibilityguy.com/ 🌐

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@TheAccessibilityGuy 📹

About: My name is Shawn Jordison and I love helping others learn the ins and outs of digital accessibility.

I have made over 100 thousand documents accessible, provided hundreds of trainings in the areas of accessibility and document remediation, and reviewed many websites and mobile applications for accessibility.

I have developed and reviewed VPATs, LMS courses, and other pieces of training. I am the accessibility swiss army knife. Let me be your personal accessibility expert.

➜ Over 13 years of experience in the field of accessibility.

➜ Passionate about providing equal access to information for everyone.

➜ Wide range of project experience, including document accessibility, training, and more.

➜ Expertise in captioning, assistive technology, and accessibility best practices. I'm here to help you create a more accessible world.

The Blog: This blog covers topics like making Word, PDF & PowerPoint files accessible, Closed Captioning, assistive technology, and other important accessibility topics.

Training and Consulting: Offering customized training and consulting for implementing accessibility best practices.

Accessible Document Service: Providing top-tier document remediation services for all types of files, ensuring compliance with WCAG, 508, and PDF UA standards.


Sponsor: Glidance


Glidance logo.

Sponsor Since: July 20th 2023 Calendar icon.

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
Glide will guide you to your destination or just keep you to a safe path and leave it to you to steer the way, giving you full autonomy and independence.

Portable, Light And Versatile
Glide uses advanced technology to help you safely and smoothly weave your way among obstacles and people, and make your way to a near by door, steps or a park bench.

Easy To Use
Smart technology for effortless mobility.

Affordable
No fancy back flips, just what you need to get back out there.

Quick To Learn
Our friendly design means you'll be up and running in no time.

Feel Confident
Without hesitation, anxiety, or getting lost.

Get started with Glide today at: https://glidance.io/.


Sponsor: Echobatix


Echobatix logo.

Sponsor Since: July 20th 2023 Calendar icon.

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.



Ayes.ai logo.

➜ Classified Advertisement: Every Traffic Light Accessible With The OKO Application

AYES 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/id1583614988

Sponsor Since: March 16th 2023 Calendar icon.

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.

OKO App logo.

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.



Sterling Adaptives, LLC logo.

➜ 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 Calendar icon.

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!



Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. logo.

Sponsor Since: December 29th 2022 Calendar icon.

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.



WayAround logo.

➜ 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.
https://www.wayaround.com/shop/?utm_source=AssistiveTech&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=AccessInfoNewsSponsorAd

Sponsor Since: January 5, 2023 Calendar icon.

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



Aira logo.

Sponsor Since: August 4th 2022 Calendar icon.

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.



Fable logo.

➜ 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.
https://tinyurl.com/3x7d7t3v

Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022 Calendar icon.

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/.



Clusiv logo.

➜ Classified Advertisement: 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 Calendar icon.

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



Double Tap TV logo.

➜ Classified Advertisement: 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 Calendar icon.

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.



HIMS, Inc. logo.

➜ 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:
https://hims-inc.com/product/braillesense-6/

Sponsor Since: September 30th 2021 Calendar icon.

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.



Carroll Center for the Blind logo.

➜ Classified Advertisement: 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 Calendar icon.

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.



Pneuma Solutions logo.

➜ Classified Advertisement: Only $60/Year! BlindShell Classic 2 Now Integrates Sero for Accessible Audio Content & More

For 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!
https://pneumasolutions.com/blindshell

Sponsor Since: June 3rd 2021 Calendar icon.

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.



Freedom Scientific logo.

➜ Classified Advertisement: 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 Calendar icon.

Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐

Email: info@vispero.com 📧️

Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️

Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)

About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.



HumanWare logo.

➜ 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!
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/123020211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm

Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021 Calendar icon.

Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐

Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 📱️
Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 📱️
Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 📱️
Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 📱️
Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 📱️
Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 📱️
Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 📱️

YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥

About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.



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➜ Classified Advertisement: 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!

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About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people.



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➜ Classified Advertisement: July Convention Specials

New 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 Calendar icon.

Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐

For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️

For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️

About: Our Scope of Products: We specialize in 3 lines of products, all intended to assist in access to adaptive electronics, enhance experiences for guide dog teams, and offer practical solutions for organization and travel with a variety of leather bags, pouches, and backpacks. Then there are the random products that are included, just for fun! We enjoy working with our customers 1-on-1 to their money is well spent and not wasted on something they may not use. In thinking about our customers and whether we will carry a product our guiding motto is that it must be: practical, affordable, simple, tested, and accessible (the pasta principle) and it seems to work very well.

What We Do: We bring our business either via zoom, phone, or to your conference or convention, to give each customer a chance for questions and where possible, "hands on" evaluation of the merchandise. Kae and I test and use each product as blind users before we put it in our catalog. In the case of products for guide and service dogs, our own three guides, Thor, Debra and Melody, are engaged in the process of evaluating the usefulness, durability, and/or fun of the product. We want each of our products to be useful, accessible, affordable, and, whenever possible, fun! Our inventory is constantly changing, so a visit to us is never the same experience twice!



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➜ Classified Advertisement: 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 Calendar icon.

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: Wordvoyance


Wordvoyance logo.

➜ Classified Advertisement: FREE: Wordvoyance: A Scrabble Game For Screen Readers

Introducing: The first and only scrabble app that blind and sighted players can play together! Completely ad-free and based on the classic board game, Wordvoyance is the perfect choice for everyone from schools and young families to grizzled word game veterans. Play against the single-player CPU or challenge your friends online. The game can be played in any web browser, even on your phone, with Android and iOS apps available in select regions:
https://www.themisgames.com/wordvoyance/

Sponsor Since: August 3, 2023 Calendar icon.

Website: https://www.themisgames.com/wordvoyance/ 🌐

About: Wordvoyance is a multiplayer crossword-building game similar to Scrabble and Words With Friends.

It has been carefully crafted to be playable by everyone, and it includes multiple accessibility features for people with blindness and other disabilities.

For players with unhindered sight, the game will play exactly as you expect. You can drag and drop tiles to form words on the board and rack up points.

For everyone else, the game is fully compatible with popular screen readers and can be played with a number of different input methods including keyboards, assistive technology, and even game controllers.

Play Game (Web Browser): https://www.themisgames.com/wordvoyance/menu

Play Game (iOS App Store): https://apps.apple.com/us/app/wordvoyance/id1672135719

Play Game (Google Play Store): https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.exceptionullgames.wordvoyance

Play Game (Other): For iOS users outside of our soft launch regions you can download the app via Apple's TestFlight Store at: https://testflight.apple.com/join/UsNLOulZ

Game Manual: https://www.themisgames.com/wordvoyance/manual



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➜ Top Tech Tidbits News Team


Publisher: Aaron Di Blasi (Volunteer)


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Volunteer Publisher Since: June 4th 2020

Location: Mayfield Heights, Ohio

Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (EST/EDT) (GMT-5/GMT-4)

In addition to serving as Publisher for Top Tech Tidbits Aaron also serves as Publisher for the Access Information News Publication and is also the President and Senior Project Management Professional for Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd.

As Publisher Aaron oversees the weekly distribution of Top Tech Tidbits as a not-for-profit project on behalf of Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd.

Aaron also serves as a Volunteer Editor to Top Tech Tidbits.

Aaron Di Blasi, PMP

Publisher (2020-Present)
Top Tech Tidbits
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com 🌐

Publisher (2022-Present)
Access Information News
The Week's News in Access Information
https://accessinformationnews.com 🌐

Sr. Project Management Professional (2006 - Present)
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Editorial Contributor: John Hanlin (Volunteer)


Volunteer Editor Since: June 4th 2020

Location: Boulder, Colorado

Time Zone: Mountain Standard Time (MST/MDT) (GMT-7/GMT-6)

In addition to serving as an Editor to Top Tech Tidbits, John also serves as an Editor to the Access Information News Publication and is also an attorney-at-law specializing in long-term disability claims for blind and visually impaired persons.

John is also a long-time contractor and member of the Board of Trustees at Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd.

John Hanlin, Esq.

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 🌐

Board of Trustees (2006 - Present)
Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd.
Innovative ideas. Solutions that perform.
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Editorial Contributor: Jenna Lang (Volunteer)


Volunteer Editor Since: June 4th 2020

Location: Des Moines, Iowa

Time Zone: Central Standard Time (CST/CDT) (GMT-6/GMT-5)

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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Editorial Contributor: Stephen (Alex) Marositz (Volunteer)


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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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Editorial Contributor: Ben Moxey (Volunteer)


Photo of Ben Moxey holding Ferris, Guide Dog in Training.

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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Editorial Contributor: David Woodbridge (Volunteer)


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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/ 🌐

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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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