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Top Tech Tidbits. The Week's News in Access Technology. Masthead logo includes title as well as five photos, a blind man with a white cane wearing dark sunglasses talking and listening to his mobile phone, a woman with sandy brown to blonde hair wearing a hearing aid, finger tips feeling braille dots on a refreshable braille display, a man making the sign for 'family' in American Sign Language (ASL), and a woman reading text from a tablet using magnification software.

Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, November 2, 2023 - Volume 935

The Week's News in Access Technology
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1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week

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A.) How To Switch Back To The Old Notification Sounds On iPhone | Cult of Mac

In iOS 17, many of the default sounds for notifications, alarms and timers have been changed — but how do you get back the old sounds if you don't like the new ones? This article shows you how:
https://www.cultofmac.com/832040/get-old-notification-sounds-back-on-iphone/

B) JAWS, ZoomText and Fusion 2024 Have Been Released

Below are links to what's new in each release:
JAWS: https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/JAWS/JAWSWhatsNew#Enhancements
ZoomText: https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/ZoomText/ZoomTextWhatsNew#enhancements
Fusion 2024: https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/Fusion/FusionWhatsNew#enhancements

C) You Can Replace Siri With ChatGPT On Your iPhone, Here's How | BGR

Publisher (Di Blasi): This article was originally published on March 12, 2023, but with the recent release of GPT-4V, and a continued silence from Apple on the subject of AI, it may now be even more relevant than it was before.
BGR: It's very likely that Apple will give Siri formidable powers in the near future, similar to what ChatGPT can do. Or better. But Apple isn't in the same hurry as Google and Microsoft to respond to the ChatGPT threat by launching flawed versions of AI bots. While we wait for Siri to gain ChatGPT powers, we can always replace Siri on iPhone, iPad, and Mac thanks to a shortcut that lets you harness the power of ChatGPT directly on an Apple device. Technically, we're not really replacing Siri, as Apple doesn't offer iPhone users that sort of access to system apps. We're just using Siri to trigger a ChatGPT shortcut via voice, and then the latter will answer our queries:
https://bgr.com/tech/you-can-replace-siri-with-chatgpt-on-your-iphone-heres-how/

D) Generative AI: A Guide For Beginners | Aaron Di Blasi | Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd.

Navigating the world of generative AI can feel overwhelming, especially for those just taking their initial steps into this burgeoning field. A question I am frequently asked is, “So, where do I start with generative AI? What's the first step? And which tool should I use?” The tool you choose will be contingent upon your specific needs and objectives. Do you wish to distill vast amounts of text? Craft compelling narratives? Or create stunning visual artwork? To assist you in making these decisions, I have compiled this introductory guide:
https://mvsltd.com/news/generative-ai-a-guide-for-beginners/

E) 10 New Windows 11 Features In The October 2023 Update To Try Now | Computer World

Windows 11's big update for the year isn't only about artificial intelligence. There are lots of other updates to check out, including the return of many users' favorite taskbar option:
https://www.computerworld.com/article/3708773/windows-11-october-2023-update.html

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9) AI Updates

Skip this Tidbit to skip all updates on AI.

A) Fact Sheet: President Biden Issues Executive Order on Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence | The White House

On October 30, 2023, President Biden issued a landmark Executive Order to ensure that America leads the way in seizing the promise and managing the risks of artificial intelligence (AI). The Executive Order establishes new standards for AI safety and security, protects Americans' privacy, advances equity and civil rights, stands up for consumers and workers, promotes innovation and competition, advances American leadership around the world, and more.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/10/30/fact-sheet-president-biden-issues-executive-order-on-safe-secure-and-trustworthy-artificial-intelligence/

B) Enhancing Accessibility with AI and ML | Noe Barrell | Deque

There has been a lot of buzz recently about Artificial Intelligence, with some people speculating that we are approaching the long-awaited AI revolution. This hype has been chiefly generated by recent advanced algorithms powering ChatGPT and other language-related models. While I believe that these models are still a far cry from general AI (AI which is able to learn for any task or problem), there is certainly a lot of power behind Artificial Intelligence driven algorithms. While the field has been around for a long time, it has only been recently (in the last decade) that Deep Machine Learning approaches have started to take off. These advancements are owed to a couple of key factors. This blog post will focus on how to specialize AI for understanding user interfaces for accessibility testing, the importance of algorithm and data integrity for accessibility, and how machine learning (machine learning is a subset of Artificial Intelligence that employs a variety of statistical and mathematical methods) can be used to simplify accessibility testing:
https://www.deque.com/blog/enhancing-accessibility-with-ai-and-ml/

C) Assembling Your Generative AI Pilot Team: 5 Key Roles | Aaron Di Blasi | Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd.

Here we will dissect the importance and composition of a Generative AI Pilot Team. An AI Pilot Team is essentially a dedicated group of individuals tasked with exploring the multi-faceted applications of generative AI, ranging from the drafting of emails, to content creation, to coding and beyond. However, it's worth noting that many of these initiatives today are carried out without official approval, oversight, or auditing measures in place. This lack of regulation can lead to significant issues, including the leakage of vital data. In order to succeed in this endeavor, an AI Pilot Team must possess a unique combination of skills and roles that are crucial for facilitating the seamless integration of AI into your organization. The right mix of individuals, each with their specific expertise, will not only help to debunk myths and misconceptions, but also pave the way for the practical implementation of generative AI across the various facets of your organization. So let's take a closer look at the five essential roles that should be represented within your AI Pilot Team:
https://mvsltd.com/news/assembling-your-generative-ai-pilot-team-5-key-roles/

D) This Is What Happened When Boston Dynamics' Robots Started To Speak, Powered By ChatGPT | Windows Central

A group of engineers recently developed a robot by leveraging generative AI capabilities to serve as a tour guide across Boston Dynamics' premises. Boston Dynamics trained its AI systems on a massive dataset. The development team admits that while the invention is impressive, they encountered several issues, including hallucination episodes. The robot is based on OpenAI's GPT-4 model, but the development team employed prompt engineering techniques to establish control over its responses:
https://www.windowscentral.com/software-apps/this-is-what-happened-when-boston-dynamics-robots-started-to-speak-powered-by-chatgpt

E) Eureka! NVIDIA Research Breakthrough Puts New Spin on Robot Learning

NVIDIA's latest AI research breakthrough has everyone in robotics crying "Eureka!" ... literally. NVIDIA's new AI agent — aptly named Eureka — can teach robots complex skills on its own. And last Friday, NVIDIA revealed that Eureka's robot training abilities outperform humans. In a nutshell: Eureka is an autonomous agent (AKA it operates without human intervention) powered by GPT-4. It equips robots with the ability to handle complex skills with increased precision and autonomy, which promises to fundamentally change the way robots learn. The secret sauce? Reinforcement learning (RL):
https://blogs.nvidia.com/blog/2023/10/20/eureka-robotics-research/?utm_source=futuretools.beehiiv.com&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=ai-s-eureka-moment

F) Inside Apple's Big Plan to Bring Generative AI to All Its Devices | Mark Gurman | Bloomberg

Apple was caught flat-footed when ChatGPT and other AI tools took the technology industry by storm. But the company is now preparing its response and plans to develop features for its full range of devices:
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2023-10-22/what-is-apple-doing-in-ai-revamping-siri-search-apple-music-and-other-apps-lo1ffr7p

G) Apple Makes Microsoft Teams Calls Incredible | Matthew Hardman | Medium: Subscription Required

The other day in a management meeting, I did something that blew people's minds and instantly became the center of attention. I made fireworks come up in my video feed in Microsoft Teams. To be honest, I even shocked myself. Was this some new capability in Microsoft Teams that has been unpublished, had I become lax in knowing about all the cool dramatic features that exist to make calls more exciting?
https://realhardman.medium.com/apple-makes-microsoft-teams-calls-incredible-e2bcfd62c5f5

H) What The Evolution Of Our Own Brains Can Tell Us About The Future Of AI | Engadget

The explosive growth in artificial intelligence in recent years — crowned with the meteoric rise of generative AI chatbots like ChatGPT — has seen the technology take on many tasks that, formerly, only human minds could handle. But despite their increasingly capable linguistic computations, these machine learning systems remain surprisingly inept at making the sorts of cognitive leaps and logical deductions that even the average teenager can consistently get right:
https://www.engadget.com/hitting-the-books-a-brief-history-of-intelligence-max-bennett-mariner-books-143058118.html?src=rss

I) Microsoft AI Feeds Project Gutenberg With 5,000 Audiobooks | Good eReader

In the eBook site Project Gutenberg, the readers can explore 5,000 open-license audiobooks. This is an initiative by Project Gutenberg, Microsoft, Google, and MIT. The project has approximately 35,000 hours of audio generated by AI, which sounds next to the human voice. You can listen to works of Edgar Allan Poe, Frankenstein, or Shakespeare's Macbeth with its mysterious witches. This collection has something for everyone, as the audiobooks range from fiction to nonfiction:
https://goodereader.com/blog/audiobooks/microsoft-ai-feeds-project-gutenberg-with-5000-audiobooks

J) AI Suitcase Tested Outdoors To Guide Visually Impaired People

An artificial intelligence-powered suitcase being developed to guide visually impaired people is slowly moving toward taking over the roles of white canes and guide dogs, researchers said. They are now at the difficult stage of making the robotic suitcase on wheels usable in both indoor and outdoor environments. During an experiment in September, the smart suitcase guided Chieko Asakawa, director of the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan), to the nearest station from her workplace in Tokyo's Koto Ward:
https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15025247

10) Apple Updates

Skip this Tidbit to skip all updates on Apple.

A) Apple Releases iOS 17.1 and iPadOS 17.1 With Many Fixes for VoiceOver Users | AppleVis

Apple has released iOS 17.1 and iPadOS 17.1 to the public. Our experience with past iOS and iPadOS updates is that the X.1 releases often contain fixes for many of the accessibility bugs introduced in the major X.0 updates. Our experience is that iOS 17.1 and iPadOS 17.1 appear consistent with this pattern, resolving or significantly improving several of the bugs from the initial 17.0 versions:
https://www.applevis.com/blog/apple-releases-ios-171-ipados-171-many-fixes-voiceover-users

B) Apple Releases macOS Sonoma 14.1, watchOS 10.1, and tvOS 17.1 | AppleVis

Apple has released macOS Sonoma 14.1, watchOS 10.1, and tvOS 17.1 to the public. Our experience is that the following accessibility bugs have been resolved or significantly addressed in macOS Sonoma 14.1:
https://applevis.com/blog/apple-releases-macos-sonoma-141-watchos-101-tvos-171

C) The iPhone 15 Pro Brings Tangible Accessibility Benefits | SixColors

What makes an iPhone accessible? Mostly, it's the software: the operating system and apps that follow guidelines Apple has set for that purpose. If new hardware plays a role, it's often in the opposite direction. For some with hearing or vision disabilities, the loss of the Home button has made hanging onto an iPhone SE feel worth the struggle. But this year, there's another hardware story (and I'm mighty surprised to be writing this): What's inside Apple's Pro iPhones is giving an important boost to usability for people with disabilities:
https://sixcolors.com/post/2023/10/the-iphone-15-pro-brings-tangible-accessibility-benefits/

D) The Top New Features in Apple's iOS 17 and iPadOS 17 | Wired: Subscription Required

Apple Just Dropped iOS 17.1 And iPadOS 17.1 — Here's What The Update Adds:
https://www.wired.com/story/apple-iphone-ios-17-ipados-17-new-features/

E) This USB-C Headphone Dongle Brings Back The Headphone Jack To The iPhone 15 — And Makes Your Music Sound Brilliant | iMore

The last iPhone to carry the headphone jack was the first generation iPhone SE, discontinued in 2018. For those that can do maths, that is now five years ago. Five years with no main-line iPhone with a headphone jack, and the only way to get one officially from Apple is with a $10 dongle that feels like it's only going to last around three minutes. From my experience, in fact, they can last even less time than that, with unreasonably thin cables. Now, with the advent of the USB-C port on the bottom of the iPhone 15 line, it's become easier to connect headphones with different dongles, and it's even opened the floodgates to a whole new idea for iPhones — USB-C Digital to Analog Converters (DACS):
https://www.imore.com/iphone/this-usb-c-headphone-dongle-brings-back-the-headphone-jack-to-the-iphone-15-and-makes-your-music-sound-brilliant

11) JAWS and Fusion Power Tip: How To Use The New 'Face in View' Feature in JAWS and Fusion 2024 | Freedom Scientific

Video calls are a standard form of communication in the workplace, in schools, and in personal relationships. Before joining a video call, you want to make sure your setup is right and the camera is correctly focused on you. The new Face in View feature in JAWS and Fusion 2024 helps with this by alerting you to key visual details like: Centering your face in the view. Ensuring you are looking directly at the camera and the lighting is adequate. Finding out if there are additional items in the picture. To activate Face in View, follow these steps:
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/202.html

12) How To Join A Teams Meeting Using A Screen Reader | Joe Lonergan | National Council for the Blind of Ireland (NCBI)

The keystrokes below are mostly Windows keystrokes so it will cover the three most used options such as Jaws, NVDA, and Narrator. Usually, you get a Teams invite via email. Navigate to the email in your inbox and enter on it:
https://www.ncbi.ie/how-to-join-a-teams-meeting-using-a-screen-reader/

13) It's So Simple! Navigating Your Mac with Mission Control, Expose, Spaces, Launchpad, and Finder | Charlotte | AppleVis

Mastering the art of navigating a Mac is easier than you think, especially when you know how to utilize the built-in features designed for organization and efficiency. This guide will delve into Mission Control, Expose, Spaces, Launchpad, and Finder, explaining their functionalities, similarities, and differences, and offering insights into when to use each feature:
https://applevis.com/guides/its-so-simple-navigating-your-mac-mission-control-expose-spaces-launchpad-finder

14) Screen Recording on iOS: Tips and Tricks for Beginners | AppleVis

To activate screen recording on iOS, follow these steps:
https://www.applevis.com/podcasts/screen-recording-ios-tips-tricks-beginners

15) How to Put Your Driver's License on Your Phone | Wired: Subscription Required

Both Android and iOS let users in a handful of US states carry a digital version of their government-issued ID card on their phone. Here's what to know about how it works:
https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-put-drivers-license-digital-id-on-your-phone/

16) Windows 11's Feature-Packed 'Moment 4' Update Is Available To All | October 30, 2023 | PC World

This is the most comprehensive update for Windows 11 to date:
https://www.pcworld.com/article/2120388/windows-11-now-receives-biggest-update-moment-4-available-for-all-users.html

17) A New Accessibility Architecture For Modern Free Desktops | Matt Campbell

My name is Matt Campbell, and I'm delighted to announce that I'm joining the GNOME accessibility team to develop a new accessibility architecture. After providing some brief background information on myself, I'll describe what's wrong with the current Linux desktop accessibility architecture, including a design flaw that has plagued assistive technology developers and users on multiple platforms, including GNOME, for decades. Then I'll describe how two of the three current browser engines have solved this problem in their internal accessibility implementations, and discuss my proposal to extend this solution to a next-generation accessibility architecture for GNOME and other free desktops:
https://blogs.gnome.org/a11y/2023/10/27/a-new-accessibility-architecture-for-modern-free-desktops/

18) 6 Common Alt Text Mistakes and Best Practices | Allyant

Effective alternative (alt) text is essential to web accessibility and usability. Alt text is non-visual text read by screen readers that informs people with vision impairments of the contents of images and other non-text content. Web development teams must ensure their alt text (or lack thereof) will not interfere with screen readers' abilities to read non-text content accurately. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when writing alt text and strategies to overcome them:
https://allyant.com/6-common-alt-text-mistakes-and-best-practices/

19) Mona For Mastodon For Users of Mona on iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max | Mona App

I'm excited to announce a new Beta testing program: Mona Beta (version 6). This new release adds powerful capabilities to the Action button on iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max. Mona Pro Max owners can now install Mona Beta via the TestFlight on iPhone and iPad, or a direct download link on Mac. Here's how: A. Install the Mona 5.10.2 from App Store at: https://geo.itunes.apple.com/app/id1659154653. B. Open the About Mona view in the Mona Settings. C. Tap the TestFlight link or click the download link.

20) Mastodon For Android Update | Mastodon Blog

The most recent update of Mastodon for Android introduces a highly anticipated feature — lists. With the new update, you now have the ability to create custom lists and categorize your follows based on specific topics or interests, while removing them from your home feed:
https://blog.joinmastodon.org/2023/10/mastodon-for-android-update/

21) What's New in JAWS 2024 Screen Reading Software | Freedom Scientific

This page describes the new features and improvements available in JAWS 2024:
https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/JAWS/JAWSWhatsNew#Enhancements

22) TweeseCake 0.17.0 Has Been Released

https://tweesecake.app/changes

23) NVDA 2023.3 Released

https://www.nvaccess.org/post/nvda-2023-3/

XX Piper Training Guide with Screen Reader | ZachB100 | Github

A guide to help newcomers to the Piper TTS system create voices for NVDA and other screen readers down the line:
https://github.com/ZachB100/Piper-Training-Guide-with-Screen-Reader

24) GuideConnect 1.26 Update Available

GuideConnect 1.26 includes a new option to search the Settings list - to make it easier to find the settings you need in GuideConnect. The 1.26 update also includes a range of further improvements for documents, emails and more:
https://yourdolphin.com/news?id=537

25) Amazon Brings Conversational AI To Kids With Launch Of 'Explore With Alexa' | TechCrunch

Amazon's Echo devices will now allow kids to have interactive conversations with an AI-powered Alexa via a new feature called "Explore with Alexa." First announced in September, the addition to the Amazon Kids+ content subscription allows children to have kid-friendly conversations with Alexa, powered by generative AI, but in a protected fashion designed to ensure the experience remains safe and appropriate:
https://techcrunch.com/2023/10/25/amazon-brings-conversational-ai-to-kids-with-launch-of-explore-with-alexa/

26) Envision AI App Introduces New Explore Feature

Introducing 'Explore': Navigate the world independently. We're thrilled to announce a transformative new feature in the Envision App — 'Explore'. Dive right into the app's feature list to find it! With 'Explore', your device's camera becomes an intuitive guide. Think of it as an evolution of our 'Find Object' feature. While 'Find Object' zeroes in on a specific item, 'Explore' introduces you to every recognizable object in its view. Discover your surroundings, embrace newfound independence, and confidently journey through the world. Upgrade your Envision App now and embark on this exciting exploration:
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/envision-ai/id1268632314

27) The Evolution of Text-to-Speech: A Personal Journey with ChatGPT's iPhone App | Lottie | AppleVis

Hello Fellow Apple Users! I've been navigating the world of text-to-speech for over 35 years and recently had an epiphany I just had to share with you all. After using the ChatGPT iPhone app, I found myself wondering: Is this the most realistic voice I've ever encountered, or does the content make it feel that way?
https://www.applevis.com/forum/ios-ipados/evolution-text-speech-personal-journey-chatgpts-iphone-app

28) Computer Scientists Program Robotic Seeing-Eye Dog To Guide The Visually Impaired | News Wise

Engineers from the Computer Science Department at Binghamton University, State University of New York have programmed a robot guide dog to assist the visually impaired. The robot responds to tugs on its leash:
https://www.newswise.com/articles/computer-scientists-program-robotic-seeing-eye-dog-to-guide-the-visually-impaired

29) Natural Reader: AI Text-To-Speech Chrome Extension | Review | Brian Norton | Director of Assistive Technology | Easterseals Crossroads | YouTube

Brian Norton, Director of Assistive Technology, at Easterseals Crossroads shows us Natural Reader Chrome Extension, which is an extension that uses AI to convert online text from emails, websites, PDFs, Google Docs and Kindle books into audio. This is helpful for individuals who are blind, have low vision, or reading impairments:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y62LWRqUn0U
Natural Reader on Chrome Web Store: https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/naturalreader-ai-text-to/kohfgcgbkjodfcfkcackpagifgbcmimk

30) Acoustic Touch Can Make World Better For Blind People, Claims Research | Interesting Engineering

In a world heavily reliant on visual information, individuals who are blind or have low vision often encounter challenges when performing everyday tasks independently. According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 39 million people worldwide are blind, and an additional 246 million have low vision, finding it difficult to navigate their surroundings, identify objects, and conduct various Activities of Daily Living (ADL). It is in this context that Assistive Technology (AT) shines as a beacon of hope. Smart glasses incorporating advanced technology have emerged as a promising solution for those with visual impairments. While visual sensory augmentation is one aspect of assistive technology, it might not be the most practical choice for individuals with impaired vision:
https://interestingengineering.com/science/acoustic-touch-can-make-world-better-for-blind-people-claims-research

31) 'Smart Glasses' Developed That Can Help Blind People Recognize Objects

Researchers have developed a smart glasses system that can help blind people or individuals with poor vision to recognize and reach objects in their environment. The system, described in a study published in the journal PLOS ONE, involves a novel "acoustic touch" feature that is inspired by human echolocation:
https://www.newsweek.com/smart-glasses-help-blind-people-recognize-objects-1837042

32) 3 Ways We Work To Make Google Play More Accessible

For National Disability Employment Awareness Month, here's a look at some of the Googlers who work on accessibility features and apps for Google Play:
https://blog.google/products/google-play/google-play-accessibility-features/

33) AppleVis Unlimited: What's New and Noteworthy for October 2023

https://www.applevis.com/newsletter/applevis-unlimited-whats-new-noteworthy-october-2023

34) Accessibility News | October 2023 Edition

https://bit.ly/3MlCzzg


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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 November 3, 2023 | Participants Needed for AFB Research Study on Website and App Accessibility | APH

Researchers at the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) are conducting a study to document the accessibility challenges that blind, low vision, and deafblind people experience while using websites and mobile apps in daily life. We are looking for participants to fill out a series of daily diaries sharing your experiences with websites and mobile apps in real time. We are asking interested individuals to fill out this brief interest form, and we will select 20-25 people to complete the diaries to get a balance of experiences. If you are selected to complete the diaries, you will be asked to spend 5-10 minutes each evening answering questions on a short online survey for 10 consecutive days in November 2023. Those who are selected and complete all the diaries will receive a $40 gift card:
https://afb.org/take-action/announcements/participants-accessibility-study

Closing November 23, 2023 | Use of Cell Phone Apps to Assist with Street Crossings | Brooke Kruemmling

We are doing a study to find out how reliable select cell phone apps may be for certain street-crossing tasks. This survey is designed to learn more about ways in which people who are blind or visually impaired may be using select cell phone apps to get assistance with street crossings. This survey does not include questions about GPS apps. This study is being conducted at Pennsylvania College of Optometry at Salus University. Completing the survey should take less than 10 minutes:
http://s.alchemer.com/s3/Use-of-Apps-with-Live-Agents-for-Executing-Street-Crossings


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


October 12, 2023 | Vispero Presentation — The Power of the F6 Key in MS Office Products

The F6 key is used in MS Office products to navigate to different areas of the screen like the Status bar, Ribbons, and open feature panes. Participants joined us for an overview of these areas and learned how to increase their productivity when navigating in the Office:
https://www.acbmedia.org/2023/10/12/20231012-vispero-presentation-the-power-of-the-f6-key-in-ms-office-products/

October 14, 2023 | LBPD TUG: AppleVis

On Saturday, October 14, the Technology User Group (TUG) is pleased to welcome Thomas Domville (AnonyMouse) from AppleVis to our gathering. He will be highlighting the many changes coming to your iPhone with the release of iOS 17. He will talk about the new accessibility skills and some popular app redesigns. The AppleVis website and podcast will also be featured:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/maryland-state-library-agency/id1633488438?i=1000632290557

October 26, 2023 | Microsoft Windows Copilot Live Demo | Access Tech Live

In this segment of Access Tech Live on AMI-tv, Marc Aflalo and Steven Scott do a live demo of Copilot in Windows. What could possibly go wrong?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MJfsS0H_zNY

October 26, 2023 | Listen to Text with Envision App or Glasses | Hadley Presents: A Conversation with the Experts

This week we chat with the chief technology officer from Envision as he shares how their free mobile app or camera-enabled glasses can help those with vision loss. It speaks aloud written information, describes surroundings and objects, and even tells you who's nearby:
https://hadley.edu/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/listen-text-envision-app-or-glasses?_q=gehdlvhijr

October 27, 2023 | Teaching Resources with Ron Miller | Freedom Scientific

In this new series, listen as Freedom Scientific's Ron Miller presents various JAWS Teaching resources in a convenient audio format. You can find more content related to teaching on Freedom Scientific's Teaching Resources Page. Absorbing all the features of JAWS, ZoomText, or Fusion can be a daunting task. When you add to that the nuances of G Suite, Microsoft Office, and other apps in your toolbox, a few hints would come in handy for both you and your students:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/teaching-resources-with-ron-miller/id1521340640?i=1000632883757

October 28, 2023 | Blind Android Users Podcast: Episode 151, One UI Part 8, Sounds and vibration and Happy 15th Birthday to Android and Android Market AKA Play Store

In this episode we first talk about sounds and vibration in Samsung phones. We then talk about 15 glorious years of Android Market AKA Play Store. We discuss the OnePlus Open, the newest foldable phone from OnePlus. And also talk about Xiaomi which will no longer launch new phones with MIUI but will launch Hyper OS and also talk about Xiaomi 14 Pro. In our tip of the week, we show how to copy paste text with TalkBack:
https://youtube.com/blindandroidusers/videos

November 1, 2023 | Eyes on Success 2344: Encore of 2020 Band-in-a-Box and the Updated JAWS Scripts

Band-in-a-Box from PG Music continues to evolve and introduce new features that are appealing to both professional and amateur musicians alike. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Tobin Frank, chief development officer at PG Music, about the program and how the scripts Peter developed make this program accessible with the JAWS screen reader:
http://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show_notes_2344.htm

November 2, 2023 | Top Tech Tidbits Podcast for Thursday, November 2, 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://toptechtidbits.com/podcast


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


November 2, 2023 | Career Conversations: Interview With A Blind Audio Engineer | Richard Rueda | APH ConnectCenter

3PM PT, 4PM MT, 5PM CT, 6PM ET, 10PM GMT
Join the team at APH CareerConnect when we interview, Fitzville G. Martin, an audio engineer and CEO of Will Power entertainment, LLC. Fitzville will discuss with us his career journey and what has inspired him to open Will Power Entertainment, a leading New York City music and video recording studio. Fitsville has produced numerous award winning music videos. The remainder of the hour-long session will provide an opportunity for Transition age students and curious job seekers to follow up with their questions related to the field of audio engineering as well as what it is like to own your own business:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_eQqaNCwFQc22zjqUXBV9fw#/registration

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 8, 2023 | ZoomText, JAWS & Fusion: Latest Features | Assistive Technology Webinar | Access Ingenuity

10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT
It's that time again. Not only is it the holidays but also the time when there are important updates for ZoomText, JAWS, and Fusion. Join Ian Ramos and Marisa Church from Access Ingenuity to explore what's new in the 2024 updates and some features within the past few years. Learning Outcomes & Zoom Webinar Information: Briefly explain the differences between ZoomText, JAWS, and Fusion. Compare the different licenses and how you can find out if you are eligible for the latest updates. Explore new 2024 features such as Inverted Mouse Pointer, Single Wedge Cursor, Face in View, Split Braille, a new command for managing calls, etc. Review recent features, including Tethered View, Smart Glance, Notification History improvements, New Tables Only option for Smart Navigation, and more:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81878663672?pwd=Q3pYQUJKMGZWNEFGRnBndEVkaTNOQT09&mc_cid=0ef50aefc4&mc_eid=90429c1885#success

November 8, 2023 | Code Jumper: Coding for Families | APH ConnectCenter

4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 11PM GMT
In a high-tech ever-changing world coding is a skill many children are learning. How do we teach coding to a child who is blind or has low vision? APH Product Manager will share all things Code Jumper and answer your questions at the end. Join us to hear about Code Jumper, a tactile way to help teach, explore, and develop a passion for coding:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_dV16TYK3TjiFZi0OJ_sRcw#/registration

November 8, 2023 | How to Prepare for Accessibility Testing (Part 1) | TPGi

9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT
Presenter: Aaron Farber, Senior Accessibility Platform Consultant. This webinar covers creating an accessibility test plan that organizes manual and automated testing. Attendees will receive a test plan template ready for use at their organization and sure to garner buy-in from all the stakeholders across an organization. Attendees learn to select a set of test samples representative of an entire application. It's rarely feasible to test every page or widget within an application. Therefore, a representative sample is the starting point for accessibility testing. Attendees will gain fundamental, ready-to-use knowledge about accessibility testing:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-november-8-at-12pm-et-how-to-prepare-for-accessibility-testing-part-1/

November 8, 2023 | Accommodations In The Digital Age — How Captions Can Be Necessary For Some, But Boost Learning For All | Glean

10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT
During this installment we'll be diving into how captions can be necessary for some, but boost learning for all. We'll explore how live captions during lectures allow students to actively listen and participate as well as how captions support more effective note taking, boost engagement, and increase accessibility. Over the course of the series, attendees will also be in with a chance to win some amazing prizes by entering our live quizzes:
https://glean.co/events/how-captions-can-boost-learning-for-all?utm_source=forum_athen_us&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=q4_23

November 9, 2023 | From Classroom to Cash Flow: How Earning in School Can Shape a Brighter Future For Blind And Low Vision Students | Richard Rueda | APH ConnectCenter

3PM PT, 4PM MT, 5PM CT, 6PM ET, 10PM GMT
Discover the transformative power of earning money while in school for students with vision loss! This compelling presentation will unveil the benefits of cultivating strong money management habits and seeking accessible part-time work to foster independence. Learn how to save for the future while safeguarding government benefits and find out how families can play a pivotal role in this empowering journey:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_bcrdsBoFS36Dc7hD8v_9Bg

November 14, 2023 | How Beginners Can Easily Test for JAWS Screen Reader Accessibility | TPGi

8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT
Presenter: Charlie Pike, Platform Success Lead. JAWS Inspect enables rapid JAWS testing without the complexity of the end-user product. Using transcripts of JAWS speech you can quickly pinpoint accessibility and usability issues. This demonstration will walk you through some simple JAWS accessibility tests that can be run quickly even by novice accessibility testers and provide a good indicator of accessibility levels as well as an introduction to the challenges assistive technology users face. Testing with assistive technologies. JAWS compatibility testing. Introduction to accessibility testing. Understanding the user experience. Register today:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-november-14-at-11am-et-how-beginners-can-easily-test-for-jaws-screen-reader-accessibility/

November 14, 2023 through November 17, 2023 | The Design + Accessibility Summit By CreativePro

Join us at the 3rd annual Design + Accessibility Summit, the essential HOW-TO event for design professionals who need to master accessibility, coming to a device near you November 14-17, 2023. It's no secret that accessibility is a hot topic. In fact, ensuring your documents are accessible is not just a good idea: it's the law. Whether you're extending your company's DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) focus, expanding your market to include the estimated 25% of the population who have disabilities, or safeguarding your company against legal risks, it's important to make accessibility a business priority. Creative professionals must learn how to design documents that are accessible for people with vision and hearing impairments, mobility challenges, cognitive, and other disabilities. And those who ramp up their knowledge and expertise in accessibility will find themselves in high demand supporting their business' efforts; while those who don't will risk falling behind. At The Design + Accessibility Summit, you will learn practical techniques for building accessible documents with InDesign, Acrobat, PowerPoint, and other tools widely used by creative professionals:
https://creativepro.com/design-accessibility-summit/

November 14, 2023 | Access Academy Part 2: Teaching Touch and Exploratory Skills to Prepare for Tactile Graphics Learning | APH

1PM PT, 2PM MT, 3PM CT, 4PM ET, 8PM GMT
This webinar is part two of the Tactile Graphics Literacy for Students with Visual Impairments: 4 Part Series. Join this webinar to discover how to teach touch and exploratory skills to developing tactile learners. Learn how the development of exploratory skills serves as a foundation for braille readiness and meaningful tactile graphics experiences for students with visual impairments:
https://www.aph.org/events/teaching-touch-and-exploratory-skills-to-prepare-for-tactile-graphics-learning/

November 14, 2023 | Power of Experiential Giving | Richard Rueda | APH ConnectCenter

12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT
Consider gifting experiences this holiday season. Discover unique gift ideas for digital enthusiasts and fashion that all can enjoy:
https://aphconnectcenter.org/webinars/experiential-gift-giving-digital-music-fashion-and-more/

November 15, 2023 | What's New in WCAG 2.2? | Digital Accessibility Webinar | Access Ingenuity

10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT
After the approval of WCAG 2.2, you may be wondering about the impact on your accessibility testing and certification processes. Join Michael Parker from Access Ingenuity to learn what changed with WCAG 2.2 and how it impacts the accessibility of your digital content. Learning Outcomes & Zoom Webinar Information. Overview of WCAG 2.2. Accessibility benefits for users with disabilities. How to test for the new criteria:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82292206539?pwd=Rzl5UFI1TEw3bW0vWGNWV3lPZnorZz09&mc_cid=0ef50aefc4&mc_eid=90429c1885#success

November 15, 2023 | Diving Into Braille Displays From Humanware In Collaboration With Eye.T

11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT
Announcing a new addition to Eye.t Screen Reader Curriculum, "Diving into Braille Displays", sponsored by Humanware! Topics include choosing the right braille display for you, connecting your display to your computer and editing using your new display! Humanware will be hosting a webinar for our brand new course on November 15 at 2 PM EST, giving everyone who attends a FREE license to the course. Register to secure your spot:
https://humanware.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_2aknhgjUSMu_xRUX_3MMUA#/registration

November 15, 2023 | Power of Experiential Giving, Part 2 | Richard Rueda | APH ConnectCenter

4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 11PM GMT
Consider gifting experiences this holiday season. Enjoy a touch tour at a museum, make dinner then watch an audio described film with your family member or friend who is blind or low vision. Hear from presenters about unique gift ideas that all can participate in and enjoy:
https://aphconnectcenter.org/webinars/experiential-gift-giving-hobbies-sports-and-more/

November 16, 2023 | Accessible Word Documents Webinar | ADA Great Lakes Center

11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT
Description: In this informative presentation, we will delve into the world of accessible Word documents, exploring the key principles, techniques, and tools needed to make your documents inclusive and user-friendly. This presentation is designed for individuals and organizations that want to make a positive impact on their audience by ensuring that their Word documents are accessible to all. Join us and take the first step towards creating content that is inclusive, compliant, and enhances the user experience for everyone. Individuals will be able to submit questions for the speaker in advance during the registration process. This session will have human generated real-time captioning provided. Continuing Education Recognition Available. Certificate. Credit hours ACTCP: 1.5. Certificate of Attendance: 1.5. Speakers: Gaby de Jongh, IT Accessibility Specialist, UW-IT, Accessibility Technology Services, University of Washington:
https://accessibilityonline.org/ada-tech/session/?id=111084

November 16, 2023 | Unveiling the Latest BrailleNote Touch Updates: A KeySoft Showcase

11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT
Join Peter Tucic and Andrew Flatres as they unveil the latest enhancements to the BrailleNote Touch Plus. With the recent launch of HumanWare's KeySoft, this informative webinar will highlight the features and advancements released. Notably, we'll delve into the introduction of the new onboard Dictionary, and will also explore the braille-centric KeyCode coding application. Join us for a comprehensive overview of what's hot and happening in the world of BrailleNote Touch Plus. As always, we look forward to hearing from you during a questions and answer portion of the webinar. Time permitting, we'll address any questions or insights you'd like to share. Register now and be part of the conversation:
https://humanware.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_79Y5CXVSTECgCGGKs5uZhQ#/registration

November 21, 2023 | Accessible Music Publishing Round Table | RNIB, DAISY Consortium

2PM PT, 3PM MT, 4PM CT, 5PM ET, 9PM GMT
Introduction: The international DAISY Consortium and the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) invite music publishers, composers, and music-setters/engravers to take part in our upcoming online Round Table on Accessible Music Publishing. The event aims to explore and understand various sector requirements, through presentations and discussions between: Mainstream music publishers (including exam boards). Braille and other accessible format producers. Blind, partially sighted, and print-disabled musicians. Music setters/engravers. Music notation software producers. We will discuss steps that the global sector can take to ensure equitable access to published scores, in response to legislation and to take advantage of technological advances, with the aim of establishing a sector Working Group and trialling some solutions:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/accessible-music-publishing-round-table-tickets-732765169347

November 28, 2023 | Access Academy Part 3: Strategies and Resources for the Instruction and Evaluation of Tactile Graphicacy Skills | APH

1:30PM PT, 2:30PM MT, 3:30PM CT, 4:30PM ET, 8:30 PM GMT
This webinar is part three of the Tactile Graphics Literacy for Students with Visual Impairments: 4 Part Series. Participate in this webinar to learn instructional strategies pertinent to effective graph reading and tactual perceptual skills. Explore methods for creation of tactile graphics and resources for evaluating tactile graphicacy capabilities of students with visual impairments.
https://www.aph.org/events/strategies-and-resources-for-the-instruction-and-evaluation-of-tactile-graphicacy-skills/

November 28, 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

November 29, 2023 | ONYX Family of Magnifiers: Portable & Powerful | ACVREP CE Approved, Assistive Technology Webinar | Access Ingenuity

10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT
The ONYX family of video magnifiers combines ease of use with powerful yet portable features to help people retain their independent lifestyle — reading, writing, viewing photographs, and engaging in hobbies. Did you know there are three different ONYX models? The ONYX Deskset and ONYX OCR offer larger screens and can adapt to multiple environments and tasks for productivity at school, work, and home. Modern cameras produce high-definition images with color-coded controls and adjustable magnification. The ONYX Pro combines portability with the Surface 7 tablet, providing the ultimate tool for mobile magnification and reading tasks. During this webinar, we discuss the features and benefits all the ONYX models can give in specific situations. Join Ian Ramos and Joe McDaniel from Vispero as they dive deep into these powerful tools to help those challenged by vision loss. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. Teachers of the visually impaired (TVI) can earn ACVREP continuing education credit by attending this approved presentation. Learning Outcomes & Zoom Webinar Information: Features of all ONYX models. How to determine which model fits your needs best. How adding speech capability can take you further. Benefits of portable, powerful visual tools:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85400848456?pwd=eUdyUFRGeFlncXlWdnkyTFo5SkdwQT09&mc_cid=0ef50aefc4&mc_eid=90429c1885

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 2, 2023 | Succeed Without Sight Summit | Thriving Blind Academy

7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT
Thriving Blind Academy's 4th Annual Succeed Without Sight Summit is The Ultimate Game Changer for the Blind and Low Vision Community, Igniting Success-Driven Mindsets like No Other Event! Imagine a world where vision knows no bounds, where limitless potential thrives in the absence of sight. This groundbreaking summit is your ticket to an inspiring convergence of resilience, innovation, and boundless determination. Join us as we unlock the secrets to achieving success beyond sight's limitations, featuring incredible stories, expert insights, and powerful strategies. Don't miss your chance to be a part of this transformative event. (FYI, it is a heck of a lot of fun too!):
https://thrivingblindacademy.org/summit

December 6, 2023 and December 7, 2023 | Sight Tech Global — Shaping New Technologies to Create a More Accessible World for People with Blindness and Visual Impairments


Sight Tech Global is the first global, virtual conference dedicated to fostering discussion among technology pioneers on how rapid advances in AI and related technologies will fundamentally alter the landscape of assistive technology and accessibility:
https://sighttechglobal.com/?mc_cid=0f086fc102&mc_eid=eb245f25da

December 12, 2023 | Access Academy Part 4: The Monarch: Tactile Access to Digital Learning | APH

1:30PM PT, 2:30PM MT, 3:30PM CT, 4:30PM ET, 8:30PM GMT
This webinar is part four of the Tactile Graphics Literacy for Students with Visual Impairments: 4 Part Series. Join this webinar to learn about the skills and background knowledge a student requires to benefit from the use of a multi-line, graphics-capable, refreshable braille display like the Monarch.
https://www.aph.org/events/the-monarch-tactile-access-to-digital-learning/

December 26, 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

February 20, 2023 through February 22, 2023 | Axe-Con 2024 | Deque Systems

Why attend axe-con? Building accessible digital experiences requires a team effort, across design, development, management, testing, accessibility experts, and of course, legal. Axe-con is the first of its kind, dedicating topics to each of these key players. This is not an assistive technology convention. Talks at axe-con will include case studies from enterprise companies leading in large-scale accessibility efforts, as well as best practices and updates from technology leaders around the world. Attendance of axe-con sessions can also be used towards continuing education (CE) towards IAAP certification. Topics of focus will include accessibility in development, accessibility in design, organizational success with accessibility, and a wildcard track. If you'd like to learn more about previous sessions and speakers, you can view last year's schedule here. Join us to learn how to build, test, monitor, and maintain digital accessibility:
https://www.deque.com/axe-con/register/

April 8, 2024 and April 9, 2023 | 24th Annual Multiple Perspective On Access, Inclusion & Disability Conference | The Ohio State University — Columbus, Ohio

To be on the mailing list for the conference, send email to:
ADA-OSU@osu.edu 📧️


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1) Top Tech Tidbits | Top 60 Most Clicked Tidbits | Quarterly Compendiums

60 Most Clicked Tidbits for April, May and June 2022 - Volume 1
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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.

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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.

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About: Formerly Double Tap TV, Access Tech Live is a weekly tech show on AMI-TV, (also available on CBC Gem in Canada and YouTube).

Join hosts Steven Scott (@blindguytech) and Marc Aflalo (@marcaflalo) each week as they help viewers better understand how technology can assist them in their everyday lives.

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.

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➜ Classified Advertisement: Braillesense 6 Notetaker By HIMS Inc.

The BrailleSense 6 is a cutting-edge assistive technology that combines the functionality of a notetaker, braille display, and accessible tablet into a single, compact unit. Its robust suite of features includes web browsing, email, document creation, and media playback, making it a versatile tool for education, work, and daily life. With built-in connectivity options such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, users can seamlessly access online resources and connect with other devices. Currently compatible with Android 10, but will soon be upgrading to Android 12! Two sizes are available, the BrailleSense 6 with 32 cells, and the BrailleSense 6 mini with 20 cells.
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Sales Email: sales@selvasblv.com 📧️
Support Email: support@selvasblv.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.



Guidelights and Gadgets logo.

➜ Classified Advertisement: We're Already Thinking Ahead For The Holidays!

Our Victor Stream Bundle, with leather case, bone conduction headphones, and 256 GB SD card; $625, including shipping; SensePlayer OCR Bundle; same accessories as above; $875, incl. shipping. All 3 accessories for less than the Exec Products case alone! Leather Stream or SensePlayer case, $35; Telescopic Locking 60 and 54 inch titanium canes; $70 and $65, plus shipping; Hands free no-bounce leather pouch, $35; or our original 3 pocket hands-free leather pouch for Be My Eyes or AIRA, $30. Talking Medical Bundle with Leather case; $140 incl. shipping. Zip-around RFID Italian leather wallets; $35.00. Call or email Barry at: (617) 969-7500 📱️ or barry.scheur@gmail.com 📧️. Call or email Kae at: (781) 286-1696 📱️; or guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️.

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!



A. T. Guys logo.

➜ 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


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, 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: Have You Tried The Best Way to Label Things if You're Blind or Have Low Vision?

WayAround is a smartphone-based labeling app that works with your preferred accessibility settings. You just need the free mobile app and some WayTags ® to label items in the kitchen, garden, closet, office & more. If you want to label something that's inside, outside, wet, dry, hot, or cold, there's a WayTag that will attach securely. WayTags come as stickers, buttons, magnets, and clips. Each of the different styles of WayTags work exactly the same. Simply choose the WayTag that's best for what you want to label.

➜ Label your kitchen, clothing, or medication.
➜ Tag specialty items and tools for hobbies.
➜ Organize lots of information about one thing on a single WayTag.
➜ Scan each WayTag 100,000 times or more.

Keep adding more WayTags! Use any style of tag, in any order. There's no limit to the number of WayTags you can use. So you can rely on one system to label all your things. Try our Starter Pack to experience ALL of the different types of WayTags!
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. Pink shield logo with Fable in black text.

➜ 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://makeitfable.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://makeitfable.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://makeitfable.com/community/.



Top Tech Tidbits is the world's leading not-for-profit access technology publication that reaches over 29,000 blind, low vision, deaf, hard of hearing, deafblind, neurodivergent and/or disabled professionals, educators and enthusiasts, all over the world, each week.

Access Technology: Broadly encompasses technologies that enable access to information and communication systems for a wide range of users, including those with disabilities. It's about making existing systems like computers and the internet more accessible.

Adaptive Technology: A subset of Access Technology, specifically tailored or modified for people with disabilities. It's designed to assist individuals in performing tasks that might otherwise be challenging due to their particular disabilities.

Assistive Technology: This term is often used interchangeably with Adaptive Technology but can have a broader scope. Assistive Technology includes any device, software, or equipment that helps people work around their challenges. While Adaptive Technology is primarily focused on modifications for disability-specific needs, Assistive Technology can also include tools and devices used by the elderly, those recovering from injuries, or individuals with temporary impairments. Examples include hearing aids, wheelchairs, and voice recognition software. The key aspect of Assistive Technology is its role in enhancing functional capabilities and improving quality of life for individuals facing a variety of challenges.

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➜ Top Tech Tidbits News Team


Publisher: Aaron Di Blasi (Volunteer)


Photo of Aaron Di Blasi.

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)
Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd.
Innovative ideas. Solutions that perform.
https://mvsltd.com 🌐

Email: publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️
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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.
https://mvsltd.com 🌐

Email: editors@toptechtidbits.com 📧️
Subscribe: https://toptechtidbits.com/subscribe
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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 🌐

Email: editors@toptechtidbits.com 📧️
Subscribe: https://toptechtidbits.com/subscribe
Facebook: https://toptechtidbits.com/facebook
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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 🌐

Email: editors@toptechtidbits.com 📧️
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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 🌐

Email: editors@toptechtidbits.com 📧️
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Editorial Contributor: David Woodbridge (Volunteer)


Photo of David Woodbridge.

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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ABOUT:

Founded in 2004, Top Tech Tidbits is the world's leading not-for-profit access technology publication that reaches over 29,000 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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STORE:

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Tidbits are intentionally concise. As a result we know that some readers may not always understand all of the items listed because little explanation is given. If a particular Tidbit brings up a question in your mind, feel free to ask, and we will try to answer as time and knowledge permit.

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Any information for future issues of Top Tech Tidbits may be submitted online via our Top Tech Tidbit Submission Form at: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-news or directed to our Editors at: editors@toptechtidbits.com.


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