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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, December 26, 2024 - Volume 995 ♿️
The Week's News in Access Technology
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
Subscribers: 32,015 🔢️ opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email.
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This Week's Featured Advertisement 🎯️
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Access Awareness: Updates That Matter ♿️
Mobility equipment supplier Dash Rehab has introduced the latest addition to its range, which it claims is the lightest carbon fibre powered wheelchair on the market. Made entirely from carbon fibre, the Dash Carbon Pro is the firm's lightest powerchair yet, weighing just 11.80 kg without battery and 12.85 kg with. This weight is unmatched, according to Dash Rehab.
News 📰️
1.) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week 📊️
Meta provides a guide on utilizing live AI features on Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, covering requirements such as a Meta account, compatible phone, and internet access. The guide highlights supported features, age restrictions, and the need for compliance with local laws, alongside potential impacts on personal devices and safety considerations.
This tutorial introduces Thunderbird, a free and accessible email client with over two decades of development. It provides a comprehensive guide for screen reader users to navigate Thunderbird's interface, including setting up, managing emails, using keyboard shortcuts, and exploring advanced features.
Apple has released iOS 18.2 and iPadOS 18.2, introducing significant accessibility improvements for VoiceOver and braille users, alongside features like refined audio ducking and new braille chord commands for QWERTY keyboards. This update also debuts Apple Intelligence features such as ChatGPT integration with Siri, Genmoji, and Image Playground, enhancing user productivity and creativity.
Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses now feature continuous live AI assistance and real-time translation, using always-on cameras and microphones for extended interactive capabilities. The features, demonstrated earlier this year, allow seamless translations and conversations with a slight delay but impact battery life, lasting only 30 minutes per charge.
Episode 2 of Access Tech Weekly covers the latest update to Meta Ray-Ban glasses, a demo of NotebookLM Interactive Audio Overview with conversational AI podcast hosts, and the launch of iOS 18.3 developer betas by Apple.
Please join me in giving a warm Tidbits welcome to Perkins School for the Blind, who has so very graciously agreed to support Top Tech Tidbits via Sponsorship. If you enjoy reading Top Tech Tidbits for free each week, it is sponsors like Perkins that make it possible. And as I always say, these are the businesses and organizations that deserve your dollars most. Perkins School for the Blind was established in 1829 as the first school for the blind in the United States, and has a longstanding commitment to providing education and services that foster independence and meaningful lives for individuals who are blind, visually impaired, or deafblind. Perkins remains at the forefront of developing innovative educational programs and assistive technologies. Notably, the institution has been associated with pioneering figures such as Laura Bridgman, the first known deafblind person to be formally educated, and Helen Keller, whose education under Anne Sullivan began at Perkins. Throughout its history, Perkins has expanded its reach beyond traditional education. The school has developed a range of services, including the Perkins Braille and Talking Book Library, which circulates thousands of recorded and braille titles, and the production of the Perkins Brailler, a device used worldwide for braille writing. Additionally, Perkins International collaborates with partners in numerous countries to support individuals with visual impairments globally. In recent years, initiatives like the Howe Innovation Center have been launched to drive advancements in assistive technology, furthering Perkins' mission to empower people with disabilities. Check them out today at: https://perkins.org.
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Next Issue: Premium Subscribers will receive their 10th issue of the Top 60 Most Clicked News Articles for October, November and December of 2024 on Monday, January 6, 2025. Back Issues: There are currently 10 back issues available. Premium Subscribers are entitled to all back issues, anytime they sign up. All available back issues will be sent to you via email within 24 hours of purchasing your subscription. Please Join Us: If you would like to receive a perfectly formatted and searchable Word Document with each of the Top 60 Most Clicked News Articles of the last 3 months listed neatly within it, please consider joining us today for just $1 a month.
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8.) AI Updates 🤖️
Skip this Tidbit to skip all updates on AI.
Lauren Goode explores the effectiveness of AI chatbots like ChatGPT and Perplexity AI in autonomously handling holiday shopping, finding that while they assist with product suggestions, they fall short of fully managing purchases.
Of all of the various AI tools I've used, Ally from Envision is the one which has impressed me the most. This is due to how easy it is to get information just by speaking to it, including visual descriptions. The interface at first seems atypical as it doesn't have buttons to upload photos but there's no need for one since you can just ask it to describe what it sees. You can also ask it to focus on a specific object, rather than having it give you a general description of everything in your camera frame. The AI's personality also allows for customization and some of its upcoming capabilities are going to make Ally into what AI tools really should be doing for us.
Researchers at Florida Atlantic University have developed an AI system capable of recognizing American Sign Language (ASL) alphabet gestures with 98% accuracy, utilizing computer vision technology to interpret hand movements in real-time. This advancement aims to enhance communication accessibility for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals.
The TechShare Pro 2024 conference highlighted how AI is revolutionizing accessibility for disabled users and developers. Innovations like real-time transcription, AI-powered tools, and automated testing platforms are streamlining inclusion efforts. However, ethical challenges, accuracy, and privacy concerns remain critical considerations.
Tips, Tutorials, Guides, Reviews, Walk-Throughs and How-To's 📚️
The inaugural episode of Accessibility Smackdown addresses accessibility challenges such as linking child tags to parent figure tags in PDFs, understanding WCAG color contrast guidelines, and downloading the PAC 2024 tool for improving PDF accessibility, offering practical solutions for inclusive digital content.
News, Trends, Updates and Opinion Editorials 📰️
Celebrate the end of 2024 with Eyes On Success in this year-end special! Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey usher in the new year with two pairs of AI-powered podcast hosts who talk about the show and its creators, then unveil a fresh website design for 2025, and finish with a special song written by Pete celebrating multi-cultural seasonal holidays.
In a festive Christmas episode, Steven and Shaun welcome Jacob Shymanski, Ramya Amuthan, and Kelly MacDonald to celebrate the season with humor, discussions on AMI-audio's evolution, and insights into media and literature. Topics include audiobooks, audio description, personal tech experiences, and cherished Christmas traditions.
In this episode, the hosts reflect on 2024's major tech stories, including the revival of AppleVis, the anticipation of the Glide device, and innovations from CSUN. They explore advancements in hearing technology, AI, assistive tech, and the future of accessibility, featuring insights from Brian Comiskey on CES 2025.
Shaun and Steven celebrate the season in a festive episode of Double Tap, discussing holiday cheer, listener emails, and reflections on technology accessibility. Topics include smart thermostats, voice assistants, audio description, and personal experiences with accessibility, identity, and sight loss in society.
Glidance is offering the final days of its preorder program for Glide, an AI-powered mobility aid designed for the blind and low-vision community. Customers who preorder before December 31st will receive a 30% discount, a locked-in subscription price, and the opportunity to be among the first users of this groundbreaking device.
FSCast #253 highlights December product updates, a conversation with Dan Clark about his journey to becoming an assistive technology trainer, and insights from Everette Bacon on Aira's latest partnership with TPGI.
Penny Forward, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing accessible financial education to blind and low vision individuals, has updated its app to offer enhanced financial tools, aiming to empower the 32 million blind and low vision Americans with improved accessibility and new features.
Kellogg's has announced the introduction of NaviLens technology on its cereal boxes, enabling blind and visually impaired individuals to access product information via smartphones, enhancing accessibility and independence. The initiative follows a successful UK trial and aims to make supermarket shelves more accessible for people with sight loss.
Join Allison, Brian, David, and Ed for a year end That Real Blind Tech show. Join them as they discuss Drones, Drones, and even more Drones. They also discuss the Solos AirGo 3 Glasses, Gemini Real Time video, Meta A.I. Ray Bans, their favorite Holiday movies with Audio Description, and what they are looking forward to in 2025.
Sam from The Blind Life reviews affordable tablet floor stands that make it easy to enjoy TV shows and movies from your bed or couch. The video also highlights the FlexiSpot X2 Dual Motor Power Recliner, emphasizing its features and suitability for any living room or home theater.
This article provides download links for various Piper voices, including classic NVDA voices no longer in active licensed status. It discusses the process of creating neural versions of retro speech synthesizers and offers guidance on obtaining and using these voices with screen readers like NVDA.
Amazon has introduced new accessibility features for Fire TV, including Dual Audio, which allows users to stream audio to ASHA-enabled hearing aids while maintaining sound through TV speakers. This enhancement aims to provide a more inclusive viewing experience for individuals with hearing impairments.
This torch-like device assists blind individuals in navigating streets and reaching their destinations. Using haptic feedback technology, it employs small electric motors that adjust its shape to guide users in the correct direction.
Braille Literacy Canada has released recordings from their 2024 Symposium, now accessible as a comprehensive YouTube playlist, offering valuable insights and discussions on braille literacy.
The article discusses the growing trend of smart glasses, highlighting the success of Ray-Ban Meta's display-free smart eyewear and the challenges companies face in integrating displays into such devices. It also mentions the development of advanced AR glasses by major tech companies and the shift in focus from VR to smart glasses in the wearable tech industry.
FOX26's Kim Stephens discusses holiday gift ideas with Jason Smith from Valley Center for the Blind, focusing on thoughtful options for individuals with sight impairments.
Selvas BLV has released Firmware V1.3 for Braille eMotion, introducing the option to reverse Cursor key functions during scrolling and addressing several reported issues.
Md. Khairul Alam has developed Third Eye, an AI-powered wearable vision tool designed to assist visually impaired individuals by providing real-time audio descriptions of their surroundings using Raspberry Pi and Xiao ESP32S3 Sense module. The project is still in the proof-of-concept stage with plans for future enhancements.
HumanWare has launched a new podcast, See Things Differently, with a trailer now available. Hosted by Rachel, Peter, and David, the podcast explores topics in assistive technology and accessibility. It can be streamed on HumanWare's recommended lists, Apple, Spotify, Amazon, and more.
The following is the link to the John Panarese Memorial Location. There is even a spot where you can sign the guest book online, and write a short thought. Also, his family has informed me that John asked that all his services, people he was training be past along to me. What an honor, the great John Panarese trusts me with teaching his clients.
NV Access has launched an official mailing list offering updates, including their fortnightly blog, organizational news, NVDA release announcements, good news stories, and job listings. Interested users can subscribe via the provided link or adjust their subscription preferences.
APH and HumanWare have released a firmware hotfix addressing issues with the Mantis Q40's compatibility with NVDA. Users experiencing problems are encouraged to apply the update using the provided download link and share feedback.
Selvas BLV has released firmware update V1.3 for the Braille eMotion, introducing the ability to reverse Cursor key functions and addressing reported issues. Users can update via the Internet or external media, with detailed instructions provided.
The December update of Fusion Suite 2025, encompassing JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion, introduces features like FSCompanion AI assistant, enhancements to Convenient OCR with Background OCR, and improved Picture Smart AI functionality. Updates are available for download with installation instructions on the Freedom Scientific website.
Envision has shared the recording of their final 2024 webinar, featuring highlights from the year, the Envision Community Awards, and predictions for 2025. The recording is available on YouTube for those who missed it or want to revisit the event.
Thoughtful kitchen design, especially regarding cabinets and layouts, can transform the space into a functional, safe, and empowering environment for individuals with varying abilities. Incorporating features like pull-down shelving, drawer-based storage, and adjustable countertops enhances accessibility and fosters independence.
The latest Sound Without Sight podcast provides updates from ADC24, featuring live reports from Trahern Culver, interviews with SSL, Andre Louis, and Spitfire Audio, and a discussion on inclusive design in audio products led by Guillem Leon.
This blog explores the basics of using VoiceOver on macOS, emphasizing the keyboard-based navigation system and introducing core features like the VoiceOver modifier, grouping behavior, and VoiceOver Utility. It's a helpful starting point for users transitioning from touch-based screen readers.
Creating a supportive environment where employees feel safe discussing neurodiversity and disabilities involves fostering psychological safety, leading by example, and understanding individual needs. Employers should proactively offer reasonable adjustments and encourage open communication to ensure all staff feel valued and supported.
Uber and Lyft are similar ride-sharing services offering convenience and flexibility, but Uber is more globally available and provides additional services like Uber Eats and package transport. Lyft maintains a more driver-friendly image, but both companies share pricing models, independent contractor policies, and high-demand surcharges.
The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library in D.C. has implemented the GoodMaps app, providing step-by-step navigation for blind and low-vision patrons, enhancing their independence within the library.
The International Council on English Braille has released the third edition of The Rules of Unified English Braille, incorporating updates since 2013. New features include a comprehensive index, Unicode braille patterns, additional cross-references, and several code clarifications and additions. The publication is available for download in PDF and BRF formats.
Sight Tech Global, a production by Vista Center, is a virtual global conference bringing together technology pioneers to explore how advancements in AI and related technologies are transforming assistive technology and accessibility for people with blindness and visual impairments.
Host Melody Goodspeed engages with the audio description team behind AFB's documentary film 'Possibilities,' discussing their innovative approach to creating open audio descriptions and providing insights into the craft and effort involved in producing compelling audio descriptions.
This handout accompanies a presentation by James Risdon, exploring the role of braille music in modern classical musicianship. It covers accessing braille music sources, transcription methods, and integrating braille with other learning approaches.
Featured Events 📅️
1:00 PM PT, 2:00 PM MT, 3:00 PM CT, 4:00 PM ET, 9:00 PM GMT
Learn to perform basic tasks such as reading documents and retrieving information from pictures on your PC using JAWS for Windows and a keyboard in this one-hour workshop hosted by the Braille Institute.
11:00 AM PT, 12:00 PM MT, 1:00 PM CT, 2:00 PM ET, 7:00 PM GMT
In this virtual presentation, the U.S. Access Board will share preliminary findings on the risks and benefits of artificial intelligence (AI) for individuals with disabilities. The findings stem from recent hearings, research, and public feedback, aiming to inform recommendations for promoting equity, accessibility, and inclusion. This session is part of the AI Equity, Access & Inclusion for All Series conducted in partnership with the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) and the Center for Democracy & Technology (CDT).
10:00 AM PT, 11:00 AM MT, 12:00 PM CT, 1:00 PM ET, 6:00 PM GMT
Discover the Blind subreddit, a space on Reddit for sharing content, asking questions, and discussing topics, with Norbert Rum, the subreddit's moderator. This interactive online presentation via Microsoft Teams explores what the subreddit offers and how to get involved, with options to attend through video conference or phone dial-in.
8:00 AM PT, 9:00 AM MT, 10:00 AM CT, 11:00 AM ET, 4:00 PM GMT
Join David Swallow, Principal UX Consultant, for a session exploring strategies to integrate accessibility into the earliest stages of product development. By involving Product Owners, Product Managers, and Business Analysts, this approach ensures accessibility is embedded from the start, making it a fundamental part of your project rather than an afterthought.
2:00 PM PT, 3:00 PM MT, 4:00 PM CT, 5:00 PM ET, 10:00 PM GMT
Join Geoffrey Peddle, Chief Technology Officer, for an interactive session exploring how the AIRA smartphone app works to connect with trained agents for on-demand visual information. This workshop covers how to get started with AIRA, its various uses, and offers an engaging "Ask Me Anything" segment via Microsoft Teams, accessible through video conference or dial-in by phone.
4:00 PM PT, 5:00 PM MT, 6:00 PM CT, 7:00 PM ET, 12:00 AM GMT
Join our virtual seminar for tips and tricks for success at the career fair. You will receive Zoom details for this event when you complete the Jobseeker registration form. Please contact Janice Forbes at janiceforbes2012@gmail.com 📧️ by January 13 with accommodation needs, such as captioning and Spanish translation.
6:00 AM PT, 7:00 AM MT, 8:00 AM CT, 9:00 AM ET, 2:00 PM GMT
Join David Sloan, Roxana Fischer, and Matthijs Verhagen for a comprehensive webinar on the European Accessibility Act's implications for self-service kiosks. Explore how to ensure compliance with the EAA requirements and create inclusive self-service technology that provides equal opportunities for disabled users in the European Union ahead of the June 28, 2025, deadline.
9:00 AM PT, 10:00 AM MT, 11:00 AM CT, 12:00 PM ET, 5:00 PM GMT
Register as a job seeker for the 2025 National Federation of the Blind Washington Seminar Career Fair, held in person on February 3, 2025, from 12:00-2:00 p.m. Eastern. Registrants will also gain access to the Maximizing Your Career Fair Experience Webinar on January 21, 2025, from 7:00-8:00 p.m. Eastern via Zoom. Ensure accuracy while completing the form, as employers will use it to match you to available jobs.
Deque presents the complete schedule for axe-con 2025, the world's largest free digital accessibility conference. Featuring three days of over 60 sessions, the conference includes stellar keynotes from leaders such as Alice Wong, Jim LeBrecht, Inmaculada Placencia Porrero, and Alejandro Moledo. Attendees can participate virtually, join watch parties, and access live-captioned and ASL-supported sessions. Register today to learn from accessibility experts and network with professionals worldwide.
As a movement, digital accessibility has never been as powerful or impactful as it is today. We are at an amazing inflection point that will define the future of inclusion across the globe. All of us at Deque are so honored to be a part of this mission, and we are incredibly excited to announce that the fifth annual axe-con conference will return next year on February 25-27, 2025! Axe-con is the world's largest digital accessibility conference. Last year, over 33,000 people registered to attend, representing more than 12,000 organizations. We hosted over 75 expert presenters, and today, we're elated to announce our first 2025 keynote speaker, Alice Wong! Alice Wong is a disabled activist, writer, editor, and community organizer. She is the founder and director of the Disability Visibility Project, an online community dedicated to creating, sharing, and amplifying disability media and culture. Alice's activism has been celebrated by Time Magazine and Marie Claire, and her 2022 memoir was one of USA Today's “Must-Read” books. Alice is the recipient of multiple awards, was named a Disability Futures fellow by the Ford Foundation and the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, and was appointed by President Barack Obama to be a member of the National Council on Disability.
Celebrating its 25th anniversary, the Multiple Perspective Conference, hosted by The Ohio State University, delves into the ongoing evolution of access and inclusion. This conference fosters interdisciplinary discussions on disability, focusing on new tools, equitable approaches, and universal design principles in digital and physical spaces.
9:00 AM PT, 10:00 AM MT, 11:00 AM CT, 12:00 PM ET, 5:00 PM GMT
The University of Minnesota, in collaboration with the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, the University of Illinois Chicago, and the University of Michigan, is hosting a virtual event for Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) on May 15, 2025. Centered on the theme "Committing to Change," the event emphasizes integrating accessibility into communication, design, and innovation. The planning committee seeks passionate speakers to share insights and experiences, with an honorarium offered. Proposals are due by January 3, 2025. Contact gaad-conference@umn.edu 📧️ for inquiries.
Directories 📝️
Buy, Sell or Trade 🛒️
Listing Date: 12/12/2024 | Price: $900.00 | Condition: Gently Used | Description: One gently used Brailliant BI 20X. In perfect condition, barely used, includes case and charger. Contact: Angela at: angievvt@gmail.com 📧️.
Price: $5.00 USD | Description: List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5 USD.
Sponsor Classified Ads 🎯️
Help Access Ready, Inc. support people with disabilities after Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
Based in Saint Petersburg, Florida, Access Ready is committed to providing adaptive equipment, restoring independence and dignity to those affected. Many lost vital devices that help them communicate, work, and live independently.
Donations will go toward repairing or replacing this equipment, ensuring people can regain normalcy after the disaster. Every contribution directly aids recovery efforts.
Since 2018, Access Ready has promoted accessible technology, led by CEO Douglas George Towne.
Your support can make a real difference. Donate Now — be a lifeline for those in need.
info@accessready.org 📧️
+1 (727) 531-1000 📱️
Sponsor Since: June 27, 2024 📅️
Website: https://accessready.org 🌐️
Email: info@accessready.org 📧️
Phone: +1 (727) 531-1000 📱️
About: Access Ready, Inc. is a nonprofit advocacy organization founded on October 17, 2018, dedicated to ensuring the accessibility of information and communications technologies (ICT) for all individuals, regardless of ability. The organization aims to integrate ICT accessibility as a fundamental aspect of society.
Mission: Promote policies that ensure ICT accessibility.
Vision: Create a society where ICT is inherently accessible to everyone.
Core Values: Integrity, Planning, Consideration, Opportunity
Key Milestones: 2018: Established Articles of Incorporation and ByLaws. 2020: Received 501(c)(3) status. 2019: Formed the Access Ready Strategic Social Purpose Corporation to develop accessible technologies.
Initiatives: Developed inclusion guidance documents with legal and policy experts and proposed the Tax Recovery Act to provide tax credits for developers making ICT accessible.
Leadership: Douglas George Towne, Chair and CEO. Access Ready, Inc. is supported by various notable individuals and organizations.
Contact: Douglas George Towne, Chari-CEO, Access Ready, Inc., chair-ceo@accessready.org 📧️.
Access Ready, Inc. strives to make ICT accessible through policy advocacy, strategic guidance, and innovative solutions, fostering a more inclusive society for individuals with disabilities.
Help Access Ready, Inc. support people with disabilities after Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
Based in Saint Petersburg, Florida, Access Ready is committed to providing adaptive equipment, restoring independence and dignity to those affected. Many lost vital devices that help them communicate, work, and live independently.
Donations will go toward repairing or replacing this equipment, ensuring people can regain normalcy after the disaster. Every contribution directly aids recovery efforts.
Since 2018, Access Ready has promoted accessible technology, led by CEO Douglas George Towne.
Your support can make a real difference. Donate Now — be a lifeline for those in need.
info@accessready.org 📧️
+1 (727) 531-1000 📱️
Sponsor Since: June 27, 2024 📅️
Website: https://accessready.org 🌐️
Email: info@accessready.org 📧️
Phone: +1 (727) 531-1000 📱️
About: Access Ready, Inc. is a nonprofit advocacy organization founded on October 17, 2018, dedicated to ensuring the accessibility of information and communications technologies (ICT) for all individuals, regardless of ability. The organization aims to integrate ICT accessibility as a fundamental aspect of society.
Mission: Promote policies that ensure ICT accessibility.
Vision: Create a society where ICT is inherently accessible to everyone.
Core Values: Integrity, Planning, Consideration, Opportunity
Key Milestones: 2018: Established Articles of Incorporation and ByLaws. 2020: Received 501(c)(3) status. 2019: Formed the Access Ready Strategic Social Purpose Corporation to develop accessible technologies.
Initiatives: Developed inclusion guidance documents with legal and policy experts and proposed the Tax Recovery Act to provide tax credits for developers making ICT accessible.
Leadership: Douglas George Towne, Chair and CEO. Access Ready, Inc. is supported by various notable individuals and organizations.
Contact: Douglas George Towne, Chari-CEO, Access Ready, Inc., chair-ceo@accessready.org 📧️.
Access Ready, Inc. strives to make ICT accessible through policy advocacy, strategic guidance, and innovative solutions, fostering a more inclusive society for individuals with disabilities.
Help Access Ready, Inc. support people with disabilities after Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
Based in Saint Petersburg, Florida, Access Ready is committed to providing adaptive equipment, restoring independence and dignity to those affected. Many lost vital devices that help them communicate, work, and live independently.
Donations will go toward repairing or replacing this equipment, ensuring people can regain normalcy after the disaster. Every contribution directly aids recovery efforts.
Since 2018, Access Ready has promoted accessible technology, led by CEO Douglas George Towne.
Your support can make a real difference. Donate Now — be a lifeline for those in need.
info@accessready.org 📧️
+1 (727) 531-1000 📱️
Sponsor Since: June 27, 2024 📅️
Website: https://accessready.org 🌐️
Email: info@accessready.org 📧️
Phone: +1 (727) 531-1000 📱️
About: Access Ready, Inc. is a nonprofit advocacy organization founded on October 17, 2018, dedicated to ensuring the accessibility of information and communications technologies (ICT) for all individuals, regardless of ability. The organization aims to integrate ICT accessibility as a fundamental aspect of society.
Mission: Promote policies that ensure ICT accessibility.
Vision: Create a society where ICT is inherently accessible to everyone.
Core Values: Integrity, Planning, Consideration, Opportunity
Key Milestones: 2018: Established Articles of Incorporation and ByLaws. 2020: Received 501(c)(3) status. 2019: Formed the Access Ready Strategic Social Purpose Corporation to develop accessible technologies.
Initiatives: Developed inclusion guidance documents with legal and policy experts and proposed the Tax Recovery Act to provide tax credits for developers making ICT accessible.
Leadership: Douglas George Towne, Chair and CEO. Access Ready, Inc. is supported by various notable individuals and organizations.
Contact: Douglas George Towne, Chari-CEO, Access Ready, Inc., chair-ceo@accessready.org 📧️.
Access Ready, Inc. strives to make ICT accessible through policy advocacy, strategic guidance, and innovative solutions, fostering a more inclusive society for individuals with disabilities.
At Innosearch, we believe that shopping should be inclusive for everyone, especially the blind and visually impaired. Our platform is specifically designed to provide a simple, intuitive, and fully accessible experience for all users.
Why Choose Innosearch?
Accessible Shopping: Our website is screen-reader friendly, making it easy to navigate and shop for millions of products across over 500,000 retailers, including Amazon, Walmart, and Target.
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Fast and Free Shipping: Don't worry if you don't have Amazon Prime or Walmart Plus — we offer the fastest shipping and free returns on all purchases, passing these benefits directly to you.
Available Worldwide: Shop with confidence from the USA, UK, Australia, and Canada.
Exclusive Offer: Use coupon code OFF5 to receive $5 off orders over $20!
Sponsor Since: June 7, 2024 📅️
Website: https://www.innosearch.ai 🌐️
Email: info@innosearch.ai 📧️
About: Innosearch is an all-in-one shopping platform augmented with a cutting-edge AI-powered shopping assistant. This innovative feature mimics the experience of shopping in real life by allowing you to interact with the assistant using natural language. It aggregates millions of products from top US online retailers, bringing them directly to you. With this advanced generative AI, Innosearch offers personalized product recommendations, highlights the best deals, and provides comprehensive information including reviews, total prices, shipping options, and more. Innosearch delivers a seamless end-to-end shopping experience, eliminating the need to search and browse in multiple tabs across retailers.
YouTube Review By Sam Seavey: https://youtube.com/watch?v=-rjL-HAwaZY.
Key Features: Key Features of the Innosearch All-in-One AI Shopping Platform include:
➜ Research Products: Easily compare products across retailers, or weigh pros and cons of similar products to make informed decisions.
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➜ Know Before You Buy: Innosearch equips you with expert buying guides, empowering you to make well-informed decisions.
How To Shop: Simply create a free account and start shopping today!
Sponsor Since: May 30,2024 📅️
Website: https://www.fourbadeyes.com/ 🌐️
Email: podcast@fourbadeyes.com 📧️
About: Two blind dudes collide to bring you an entirely different perspective on life. Dan Mancina, a Professional Blind Skateboarder who lost his vision at age 22, and Anthony Ferraro, a Paralympic hopeful on the Road to Paris 2024 who was born blind team up to bring you the backbone of the Four Bad Eyes podcast. Accompanied by hilarious short-form videos the podcast brings new life and perspective to anyone searching for hope or just a simple laugh. Join us as we enter our second year of podcasting. New episodes every Sunday late late night. Keep pushing and one love!
Donate: Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/anthony-ferraro65/support.
TikTok (133.4K): https://www.tiktok.com/@fourbadeyes
YouTube (4.28K): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZrlpwAc7W68j68iP0dQraA
Instagram (103K): https://www.instagram.com/fourbadeyes/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6uredZcxfMba2S84G38mob
RSS: https://anchor.fm/s/db16ff7c/podcast/rss
Mobility can be tricky. Ultrasound obstacle detectors to detect upper body obstacles, handheld GPS for turn-by-turn navigation, smart glasses to read building numbers or get scene descriptions... What if all of that was done by a single device? biped is the world's first all-in-one mobility harness. It's worn on the shoulders, has cameras on the left side of the chest, a small AI computer on the right side, and batteries behind the neck. The device can detect obstacles (head or ground level, including holes), provide GPS navigation with turn-by-turn instructions, and upon the press of the "AI button" on the right side of the chest, generate descriptions of your surroundings. biped was developed in Switzerland, with 250 beta-testers, O&M trainers, and autonomous driving researchers.
Sponsor Since: January 25, 2024 📅️
Website: https://biped.ai/ 🌐️
Email: hello@biped.ai 📧️
Get Your Biped: European and US orders (including Switzerland) can already be dispatched (usual production and shipping time is 9 weeks). Biped is only available in Europe and in the US for now, but we are expanding the list of supporting countries quickly.
Check Out The Demo: Check out the Biped.ai video demo here.
About: Biped.ai is an innovative company that specializes in creating advanced mobility aids for people with vision loss. Their flagship product is the biped smart harness, a groundbreaking device designed to aid visually impaired individuals in navigating their surroundings with greater ease and safety.
Company Overview: Biped.ai operates under the umbrella of Fusion Lab Technologies Sàrl, a company based in Switzerland. The company was established with a commitment to enhancing mobility and independence for those with vision impairments. Biped.ai has made significant strides in this field by leveraging cutting-edge technology and artificial intelligence.
Product Description: The biped smart harness is a lightweight (900 grams) and wearable device designed to be worn on the shoulders. It's equipped with three cameras positioned on the left side of the chest, a battery located behind the neck, and a small computer on the right side of the chest. These components work in tandem to provide a self-driving car-like experience for pedestrians.
The harness is capable of detecting a wide range of obstacles, including holes, branches, traffic signs, pedestrians, bicycles, and electric scooters. It utilizes artificial intelligence to predict collision risks and provides auditory warnings through Bluetooth headphones. These warnings are issued as short "beeps" to alert the user of potential dangers. Additionally, the device is equipped with GPS functionality to offer turn-by-turn navigation instructions, which are also relayed through the headphones.
Features and Functionality:
Obstacle Detection: The harness uses its cameras to scan a 170-degree field of view, functioning effectively both day and night. It can identify various obstacles and provides auditory warnings to the user.
GPS Navigation: The device integrates GPS to deliver navigation instructions and is capable of detecting crosswalks and traffic lights for enhanced navigation support.
Design: Weighing just 900 grams, the biped is designed for comfort and ease of use. It is worn on the shoulders, with strategically placed components for optimal functionality.
Sponsor Since: August 3, 2023 📅️
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 Since: July 20, 2023 📅️
Website: https://glidance.io/ 🌐️
About: Fun and easy, you'll just love going out. You walk with confidence, and Glide will simply guide you where you want to go.
Just Grab Your Glide And Walk With Confidence
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 Since: December 29, 2022 📅️
Website: https://lhblind.org/ 🌐️
Phone: (800) 914-7307 📱️
Fax: (206) 329-3397 ░
Contact Us: https://lhblind.org/contact-us/
About: The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. is a private, not-for-profit social enterprise providing employment, support, and training opportunities for people who are blind, deafblind, and blind with other disabilities. The Lighthouse has provided employment and support to people who are blind in our community since 1918.
The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. is a successful manufacturing organization with over 60 years of experience in precision machining. We produce an array of machined parts and plastic injection molding for various aerospace manufacturers, as well as a host of office products and hydration equipment sold to the Federal Government and the U.S. Military. We also own and operate stores on military bases along the West Coast. Our products and services include:
• Manufacturing: We are a successful manufacturing organization committed to making jobs accessible to individuals who are blind. Our manufacturing operations center on making quality products for the Federal Government under the AbilityOne Program and producing parts for aerospace manufacturers.
• Managed Services: The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. offers a variety of services to our commercial, federal, and military customers. These include Contract Management Support (CMS) services for government contracting offices.
• Base Supply Centers: We operate 12 AbilityOne Base Supply Centers (BSCs) that offer easy customer access to Lighthouse products, direct feedback and communication with customers, and employment opportunities for individuals who are blind in geographic areas not served by larger nonprofit agencies.
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.
Purchase a 25-pack of any style of WayTag and get a free Sampler Pack so you can try all seven different WayTags. Enter the coupon code SAMPLE at checkout and the Sampler Pack will automatically be added to your cart. This is a $14.99 value! Limit one Sample pack per order.
Sponsor Since: January 5, 2023 📅️
Website: https://www.wayaround.com/ 🌐️
General Sales & Support: (888) 898-4465 📱️
Business Sales & Support: (888) 898-4465 📱️
Email: connect@wayaround.com 📧️
About: WayAround is the app for your smart device that provides on-demand details about everyday things. The simple tag-and-scan approach lets you quickly and easily identify things around you. It also provides extra details, like how something works or when it expires. The result? Doing more of the things you want, with more confidence and more independence.
All the information you want with just a tap of your phone. No more waiting around to ask someone. You need just two things to get started: The free mobile app for iOS or Android and some of our smart WayTags®.
Accessible labels for the blind, deafblind, and anyone with vision loss. Your biggest problem isn't poor eyesight. It's that so much of the information in the world is visual. But you shouldn't have to wait around for someone else to get the information you need. Or carry around a bulky, outdated device. There is a better way to get accurate and complete information every time. So you can reduce stress and gain independence.
Download The App (Apple): https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/wayaround-tag-and-scan/id1294361140?mt=8
Download The App (Android): https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.wayaround.wayaround
Sponsor Since: August 4, 2022 📅️
Website: https://aira.io/ 🌐️
Download the App: Apple App Store | Google Play Store
Plans and Pricing: https://aira.io/pricing/
Phone: NA: +1.800.835.1934 📱️ | AU: +1.800.765.096 📱️ | UK: +0.800.046.5668 📱️ | NZ: +1.800.425.451 📱️
Text Message: NA: +1.858.242.4457 📱️ | AU: +61.488.839.767 📱️ | UK: +44.149.320.2474 📱️
Email: support@aira.io 📧️
Social: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
About: Aira's mission is to remove barriers and make the world more accessible with visual interpreting.
We provide a live, human-to-human professional assistance service, an accommodation or productivity tool, that enhances independence by delivering on-demand, skilled and reliable visual interpreting for just about any task. Using the powerful combination of a camera and the Aira app on someone's device of 'choice', a professionally-trained agent will assist by visually interpreting what is in the camera's view or on screen, from describing to reading, from explaining to navigating - just about anything, safely and securely. Aira supports a growing range of devices including smart and tactile button phones, desktop computers and soon, wearables.
Whether you are involved in the work of business, the work of school or the work of life, Aira enhances everyday efficiency, engagement, and independence. Used by employees and customers of hundreds of organizations including airports, banks, the largest software companies, financial firms, retailers and universities, we invite you to join the community, access the Aira app today and try it for free.
https://aira.io/download-and-try-it/
Step One: Subscribe and Download. Pick the plan that lets you explore on your terms and on your time, sign up in a few minutes, and download the Aira app to your smartphone. Plans shown are for the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Add or cancel at any time.
Step Two: Connect with an Aira Agent. On the first call, connect with one of our certified, specially-trained Agents and learn how everything works.
Step Three: Real-time Assistance. At the touch of a button, Aira delivers instant access to visual information, when and where you want it.
Everyone deserves equal access to the internet which is why Fable works with people with disabilities who use assistive technologies like switch controls to improve the accessibility of websites and apps. Fable Pathways, a free, accessible, and on-demand skill-building program, is an extension of Fable's mission. Fable Pathways provides new opportunities for people with disabilities to gain the skills they need, from experts like Judy Heumann and Kelly Ford, to contribute to improving digital accessibility.
Sponsor Since: June 30, 2022 📅️
Website: https://makeitfable.com/ 🌐️
Email: community@makeitfable.com 📧️
About: Fable is an accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities, connecting them to accessibility managers, user researchers, designers, and developers to build accessible user experiences.
Opportunities:
➜ Accessibility Tester: Testers drive meaningful change in digital accessibility by sharing feedback on the websites and apps of the companies that care. As a Tester, earn a competitive tech industry wage, learn valuable transferrable skills, and grow your career. Fable is looking for assistive technology users in the US or Canada to work the hours that they want, completely from home. No experience or resume required.
➜ Survey Respondent: Survey Respondents enjoy a remote, low-commitment income opportunity, all while contributing to accessibility research. Surveys are typically sent out once a month, and you can earn $5 to $50 per survey. Apply today if you identify as having a disability and live in the US or Canada. You do not need to use assistive technology to apply.
Less than 2 weeks left of Selvas BLV's final sale of the year!
⚫️ BrailleSense 6:
Option 1: Receive a FREE PMA ($650 value) plus an extra $200 OFF!
Option 2: Take $700 OFF!
⚫️ BrailleSense 6 mini:
Option 1: Receive a FREE PMA ($650 value) plus an extra $100 OFF!
Option 2: Take $600 OFF!
⚫️ Braille eMotion:
Option 1: Receive a FREE PMA ($490 value)!
Option 2: Take $350 OFF!
⚫️ SensePlayer or SensePlayer OCR:
Option 1: Receive a FREE Executive Carrying Case ($93 value) with your purchase!
Option 2: Take $80 OFF SensePlayer OCR or $65 OFF SensePlayer non-OCR.
⚫️ QBraille XL:
Take $300 OFF!
Don't miss out on these limited-time offers! Order now and empower your holiday season with innovation and accessibility.
Sponsor Since: September 30, 2021 📅️
Website: https://selvasblv.com/ 🌐️
Shop All Products: https://selvasblv.com/shop-all-products/ 🛒️
Phone: (512) 837-2000 📱️
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5R9NjA1nfWo
Sales: sales@selvasblv.com 📧️
Support: support@selvasblv.com 📧️
About: SelvasBLV is a global manufacturer and distributor that has provided braille, magnification and accessible healthcare devices since 1999.
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 today.
Sponsor Since: August 5, 2021 📅️
Website: https://carroll.org/ 🌐️
Phone: (617) 969-6200 📱️
Fax: (617) 969-6204 ░️
Shop: https://carroll.org/store/ 🛒️
Donate: https://carroll.org/donate ❤️
Social: Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | LinkedIn | Instagram
About: The Carroll Center for the Blind is the foremost leader in vision rehabilitation services for individuals confronted by the challenges of vision loss. Our mission is to empower those who are blind or visually impaired to achieve independence and to lead a fulfilling life. Established in 1936, the renowned Carroll Center for the Blind has been serving those with vision impairment for over eight decades; we are known nationally as a premier Vision Rehabilitation Center. Located just outside of Boston on a sprawling campus in Newton, Massachusetts, we proudly serve ALL ages and ALL stages of vision loss. With the ongoing promise of improving the lives of people with vision-related problems, The Carroll Center for the Blind has pioneered many innovative services allowing people who are blind or have low vision to learn the skills to be independent in their homes, in class settings, and in their work places. Our services include vision rehabilitation, vocational and transition programs, assistive technology training, educational support, and recreation opportunities for individuals who are visually impaired of all ages. For over 80 years, the expertise of Carroll Center staff has provided help for thousands of blind and visually impaired persons with diverse opportunities for success and independent living.
Finding a computer under the tree is all fun and games, until disaster strikes mere hours following the family gathering with the technical wizard that can fix anything. We at Pneuma Solutions have just the solution for you! From now through January 2nd, any technical wizard can download our critically acclaimed Remote Incident Manager on their Windows or macOS computer, sign up for a controller account, and try all of its capabilities free of charge. But wait, there's more! Sometimes, even the best tech gurus need a lifeline. Last month, we introduced the AITools feature, offering you one-stop access to all of the world's assistive technology helper bots. This 12 day RIM free-for-all additionally opens up the AITools feature, allowing you to explore this cutting edge new capability. Get those hard questions answered in seconds, get those tech problems solved in minutes. Everyone wins, and for a full twelve days, it doesn't cost a dime! What are you waiting for? Download RIM today!
Sponsor Since: June 3, 2021 📅️
Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐️
Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.
Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️
Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️
About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?
Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.
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.
Sponsor Since: April 15, 2021 📅️
Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐️
Email: info@vispero.com 📧️
Phone: (800) 444-4443 📱️
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube (Training)
About: Freedom Scientific, a Vispero brand, is a leading worldwide brand of assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. We offer products designed to promote independence, allowing blind and low vision individuals the same access to information as their sighted peers. World-renowned JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen reading software and ZoomText screen magnification software provide users the independence and ability to seek education and obtain or maintain a career after vision loss. Our expansive product line includes both low vision and blindness technology for all aspects of daily living. The wide range of RUBY, TOPAZ, and ONYX desktop and portable video magnifiers are designed for their ease of use and assist with daily activities. Our impressive line of blindness hardware products include refreshable Braille displays and scanning and reading devices, offering many options tailored to fit individual needs.
GuideLights Will be at ACB, although we don't have an exhibit booth. We have something better; a room on the 4th floor right in the middle of everything. We will be in Main Street 2 Sun. Mon. and Tue. We are calling it the "GuideLights window down" sale with lots of special bargains. Backpacks, 20 cell Braille display cases, and a good selection of headphones will be discounted 30 percent. Come join the fun with Barry; there will be an Orbit Speak given away to a person who registers with us. There will also be a number of "spot" promotions during the convention. I am doing this by myself this year, as Kae is still recovering from some of her surgeries. Looking forward to being with our many customers and friends. For more info, call or email Barry at: (617) 969-7500 📱️ or barry.scheur@gmail.com 📧️.
Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us
Sponsor Since: June 25, 2020 📅️
Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐️
For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at:
Phone: (617) 969-7500 📱️
Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech@gmail.com 📧️
For All Things Dog Contact Kae at:
Phone: (781) 286-1696 📱️
Email: guidelightdogs@gmail.com 📧️
About: Our Scope of Products: We specialize in 3 lines of products, all intended to assist in access to adaptive electronics, enhance experiences for guide dog teams, and offer practical solutions for organization and travel with a variety of leather bags, pouches, and backpacks. Then there are the random products that are included, just for fun! We enjoy working with our customers 1-on-1 to their money is well spent and not wasted on something they may not use.
In thinking about our customers and whether we will carry a product our guiding motto is that it must be: practical, affordable, simple, tested, and accessible (the pasta principle) and it seems to work very well.
What We Do: We bring our business either via zoom, phone, or to your conference or convention, to give each customer a chance for questions and where possible, "hands on" evaluation of the merchandise. Kae and I test and use each product as blind users before we put it in our catalog. In the case of products for guide and service dogs, our own three guides, Thor, Debra and Melody, are engaged in the process of evaluating the usefulness, durability, and/or fun of the product. We want each of our products to be useful, accessible, affordable, and, whenever possible, fun! Our inventory is constantly changing, so a visit to us is never the same experience twice!
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.
Sponsor Since: June 11, 2020 📅️
Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐️
Phone: (269) 216-4798 📱️
Email: support@atguys.com 📧️
Skype: atguys 💬️
X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) 💬️
Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys 💬️
About: ATGuys.com. Your access technology experts, home for cool gadgets, accessories, and more. Our products are all tested to work great for blind and visually impaired users but also work just as well for anyone. If there's an item you're looking for, or if you have a question, please don't hesitate to send us a message or call (269) 216-4798 📱️.
Discover Compass, an innovative transition program from Perkins School for the Blind. Compass is a virtual, nine-month program created to empower blind and visually impaired high school students with the skills, confidence, and resources needed to thrive in college and beyond.
Through action planning, group workshops, and 90 hours of individual coaching for the student and their educational team, including family members and TVIs, Compass helps students develop essential competencies like self-advocacy, organization, and social confidence. Whether it's mastering assistive technology, preparing for campus life, or building academic strategies, Compass ensures your students are ready to tackle the challenges of higher education.
Contact us today to learn more about Compass' expert support, personalized guidance, and proven track record of success. Take charge of your student's future and discover what's possible.
Sponsor Since: December 18, 2024 📅️
Website: https://perkins.org/ 🌐️
About: At Perkins School for the Blind, we transform lives by helping children with disabilities find their place in the world. As a leader in education for children with visual impairments and multiple disabilities — including deafblindness, Cerebral/Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI), and CHARGE syndrome — we provide services tailored to every need, from infancy to adulthood. Our innovative programs include day and residential options, virtual transition programming, direct services in public schools and much more.
Since 1829, we've empowered children and young adults with the education, confidence, and skills to reach their full potential. On our vibrant, historic 38-acre campus near Boston, students thrive in a dynamic environment, building social skills, forging lasting connections, and embracing school traditions. Our experts implement the Expanded Core Curriculum, delivering customized instruction in academics, independent living, technology, and vocational training.
Perkins' impact extends beyond campus with itinerant teachers providing services across New England, a Transition Center preparing students nationwide for college and the workforce, and CVI Now equipping parents with crucial tools, knowledge, and community.
Globally, Perkins-trained educators are changing lives in almost 100 countries.
Discover more at Perkins.org or contact Admissions@Perkins.org 📧️ today.
What We Do | Who We Are | Resources and Stories | How to Help
For loved ones, celebrate holidays, anniversaries, and birthdays with beautifully designed, personalized jewelry and accessories that blend style with inclusivity, creating a meaningful connection through thoughtful details. Braille is more than the system of raised dots used by blind readers. We love braille as a design element. Braille is texture, pattern, contrast. What can we create for you? Elegant Insights will help you to share your sentiments, tell your story, and commemorate special events.
Thank you to everyone who shopped with us throughout the holiday season. We're delighted to have joined the Top Tech Tidbits community, and we've already met so many new friends. We appreciate your business! While it's now past our deadline for on-time holiday delivery, we'll resume normal operations after the first of the new year. Wishing you and yours a joyful and abundant holiday season! See you in 2025!
x (Formerly Twitter) | Facebook | Instagram
Sponsor Since: November 22, 2024 📅️
Website: https://elegantinsightsjewelry.com/ 🌐️
About: Elegant Insights Braille Creations, founded by Laura Legendary, offers a distinctive collection of handcrafted jewelry and accessories embossed with crisp, readable braille.
Inspired by a personal experience, Laura, who is blind, established the brand to merge style with accessibility, providing beautiful and inclusive products. Each piece is made in the USA and can often be personalized or custom-designed to meet individual preferences.
Beyond her work with Elegant Insights, Laura co-founded The Fashionability Channel podcast, which provides beauty, fashion, and lifestyle information for people with disabilities. She also maintains two blogs: the Accessible Insights Blog, offering information on products and services for individuals with low or no vision, and the Sparkle On Blog, which provides jewelry education, design trends, and style information.
Laura's dedication to accessibility and advocacy extends to her role as a speaker, author, and educator specializing in these areas. Her multifaceted efforts aim to empower individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have access to stylish, functional, and meaningful products and information.
Home | About Elegant Insights | Ordering, Shipping and FAQs | My Account | Checkout | Cart | Shop The Boutique | Wish List | Testimonials | Subscribe
Sponsor Since: October 13, 2024 📅️
Website: https://floridareading.com/ 🌐️
About: Florida Vision Technology is officially celebrating its 20th anniversary. When I started in February 2000, the assistive technology industry was young, and there were just a handful of manufacturers.
Opening the business felt right, and I was ready to jump in. The biggest challenge, in the beginning, was getting a used bulky desk into the shed in my backyard, which my daughters named "Lesa Berg Kretschmer World Headquarters."
Three years later, in June of 2003, we moved into our first offsite location and opened a low vision superstore!
Home | Shop | Blogs | About Us | Contact Us
Sponsor Since: September 20, 2024 📅️
Website: https://accesspark.shop 🌐️
About: Access Park is your premier destination for accessible shopping.
At Access Park, we offer a curated selection of products aimed at enhancing the daily lives of persons with disabilities.
Whether you're looking for accessible tech gadgets, specialty assistive devices, or just everyday essentials, you'll find them here.
Access Park provides a shopping experience that prioritizes keyboard navigability, screen reader compatibility, and high-contrast visuals for those with visual impairments, in addition to other enhancements that provide an elevated shopping experience to users of various assistive technologies.
Access Park. Where inclusivity is always in stock. (TM)
For a limited time, when you purchase a Hable One, you'll receive a FREE OptiCoaster!
The Hable One is a powerful, pocket-sized keyboard that makes phone use easier and more accessible for blind and visually impaired users.
With your Hable One, you'll get the OptiCoaster, a high-contrast, glow-in-the-dark coaster with tactile features, perfect for easily locating and placing your cups on the table.
But hurry! Stock is running low, and we have only a few units left. Once they're gone, this offer ends! Don't miss out on this incredible deal.
Visit our website now to claim your free OptiCoaster before it's too late!
Sponsor Since: August 14, 2024 📅️
Website: https://www.iamhable.com/ 🌐️
About: At Hable we empower people with visual impairment in the digital world.
Inclusivity at the core and innovation at the fingertips.
Our keyboard for the blind has redefined cellphone and tablet experiences and accessibility for over 5,000 visually impaired people globally.
Hable is an external keyboard designed to make using a smartphone simpler and more convenient for those with visual impairments, allowing for easy operation and accessibility.
Order:
Ready to experience the convenience and accessibility of Hable for yourself? Order Hable today at:
Amazon in the USA: https://amzn.to/3MEvLN5 | Other Countries: https://bit.ly/3sq4kjz.
Website: Home | Tips and Tricks | Support | Order Hable
Social: Facebook | Instagram | X (Formerly Twitter) | YouTube | LinkedIn
Are you ready to advance your career in cybersecurity? The Apex Program offers a comprehensive 10-week training course designed to prepare you for the CompTIA Network+ and Security+ certification exams. Tailored for the blind, visually impaired, disabled, and veteran communities, our program combines informative lectures, video tutorials, hands-on labs, and quizzes, with expert instructor support every step of the way.
Get started today — Classes start on the first Monday of every month!
Upcoming Class Start Dates:
1. Monday, September 9th
2. Monday, October 7th
3. Monday, November 4th
Don't miss this opportunity to join a diverse and inclusive workforce in the cybersecurity sector. Visit TheApexProgram.com to learn more and secure your spot today!
Sponsor Since: July 16, 2024 📅️
Website: https://theapexprogram.com 🌐️
About: Unlocking Abilities, Securing Futures. Founded on the principles of inclusivity and opportunity, the Apex Program is a pioneering educational initiative in cybersecurity, tailored for the blind, visually impaired, disabled, and veteran communities. Created by a Novacoast employee and inspired by his own journey from disability to Security Operations Center manager, the curriculum is designed to create a strong foundation of IT security knowledge, while instilling confidence and ensuring competence in the IT talent pool. Our ten-week program culminates in industry-recognized CompTIA certifications and a guaranteed pathway to employment, courtesy of Novacoast's dedicated IT Staffing division. At Apex, we don't just teach cybersecurity; we transform lives by unlocking potential and advocating for diversity in the IT security workforce.
Mission: The Apex Program is committed to bridging the gap in cybersecurity talent by empowering the blind, visually impaired, disabled, and veteran communities through inclusive, accessible, and comprehensive training. Our mission is to nurture a diverse workforce equipped with the necessary IT security skills and certifications to thrive in the cybersecurity sector. In partnership with Novacoast, we ensure a solid educational foundation and job placement in the industry, further fostering a future where every individual can focus their distinct abilities on building a more secure digital world.
Novacoast: Novacoast is a cybersecurity and IT services company that helps organizations enhance their security posture. They offer a range of services, including cybersecurity advisory, security engineering, identity and access management, development and integration, penetration testing, managed security services, and incident response. Their managed services include co-managed SIEM, DLP, EDR, vulnerability and patch management, phishing monitoring, and threat operations. Novacoast also provides specialized services for different industries such as finance, healthcare, and gaming. Additionally, they offer staffing solutions and training programs. Learn more today.
Home | A Division of Novacoast | Novacoast Federal | The Program | About Us | Partnerships | Media | Contact
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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 33,000 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.
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➜ Top Tech Tidbits News Team 🗞️
Distribution Since: 2004
As of June 4, 2020 the distribution of Top Tech Tidbits is made possible by our Sponsors, our Supporters, our Advertisers and Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd., a leading international provider of professionally outsourced marketing administration and consultation services.
Any time the Top Tech Tidbits Publication carries less than its Sponsor limit, Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. donates the remaining dollars necessary to keep the publication running.
Please help us to support the ongoing distribution of this publication. Learn more about the benefits of Sponsorship today.
Publisher Since: June 4, 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 and AI-Weekly newsletters, PR-Director for the AT-Newswire Press Release News Distribution Service, and President and Senior Project Management Professional for Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd.
As Publisher Aaron oversees the weekly distribution of Top Tech Tidbits on behalf of Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd.
Aaron Di Blasi, PMP
Email: publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️
Toll Free: +1 (855) 578-6660 📱️
PR Director (2024-Present)
AT-Newswire 🌐
Access Technology's Digital Newswire
Publisher (2024-Present)
AI-Weekly 🌐
The Week's News in Artificial Intelligence
Publisher (2022-Present)
Access Information News 🌐
The Week's News in Access Information
Publisher (2020-Present)
Top Tech Tidbits 🌐
The Week's News in Access Technology
Sr. Project Management Professional (2006 - Present)
Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. 🌐
Innovative ideas. Solutions that perform.
Certified:
Digital Marketing Associate
Meta Certified (2022 - Present)
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Hootsuite Certified (2020 - Present)
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Specializing in:
Digital Strategy and Content Marketing
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ADA, WCAG and Section 508 Compliance
Editor Since: June 4, 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 and AI-Weekly newsletters and is also an attorney-at-law specializing in long-term disability claims for persons who are blind or low-vision.
John is also a long-time contractor and member of the Board of Trustees at Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd.
John Hanlin, Esq.
Editor (2024-Present)
AI-Weekly 🌐
The Week's News in Artificial Intelligence
Editor (2022-Present)
Access Information News 🌐
The Week's News in Access Information
Editor (2020-Present)
Top Tech Tidbits 🌐
The Week's News in Access Technology
Board of Trustees (2006 - Present)
Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. 🌐
Innovative ideas. Solutions that perform.
Editor Since: June 4, 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 and AI-Weekly newsletters 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 (2024-Present)
AI-Weekly 🌐
The Week's News in Artificial Intelligence
Editor (2022-Present)
Access Information News 🌐
The Week's News in Access Information
Project Management Professional (2022 - Present)
Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. 🌐
Innovative ideas. Solutions that perform.
Editor (2020-Present)
Top Tech Tidbits 🌐
The Week's News in Access Technology
Editor Since: October 7, 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 the 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
Accessible Technology Coordinator
California State University, Dominguez Hills 🌐
Editor Since: January 1, 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
Access and Technology Advisor
Guide Dogs, New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory (NSW/ACT) 🌐
Editor 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.
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
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
Editor (2023-Present)
Top Tech Tidbits 🌐
The Week's News in Access Technology
Editor (2023-Present)
Access Information News 🌐
The Week's News in Access Information
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.
Editor Since: January 9, 2024
Location: Benton City, WA
Time Zone: Pacific Standard Time (PST/PDT) (GMT-6/GMT-7)
IIn addition to serving as an Editor to Top Tech Tidbits Vicki also serves as an Editor to the Access Information News publication and works as a Web Accessibility Specialist / IT Quality Assurance Tester at Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges.
Vicki Walton
Editor (2024-Present)
Top Tech Tidbits 🌐
The Week's News in Access Technology
Editor (2024-Present)
Access Information News 🌐
The Week's News in Access Information
Web Accessibility Specialist / IT Quality Assurance Tester
Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges 🌐
Better Jobs, Brighter Futures, a Stronger Washington
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