
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, January 23, 2025 - Volume 999 ♿️
The Week's News in Access Technology
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
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Chase Bank has partnered with Aira to offer on-demand visual interpreting services to customers across the United States, in every branch, at all Chase ATMs, and while using online banking services.
Through the Aira Explorer app, Chase customers who are blind or low vision can connect on a video call with professional, human visual interpreters who assist with navigating the branch, using ATMs, completing banking tasks, and more. Aira is a private and secure platform, ensuring you can confidently access and manage your banking needs, even when confidential information is involved.
Aira is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with no advance bookings required. There is no time limit on calls made. Coverage includes all U.S. Chase Bank locations, and the Access Offer will automatically be applied based on your location. Online banking users can use Aira to navigate via the Aira desktop app.
Download the Aira Explorer app on iOS or Android.
Access Awareness: Updates That Matter ♿️
Artificial intelligence is proving to be a significant aid for students with disabilities, helping them keep pace with classmates. Tools such as customized AI-powered chatbots and word prediction programs are enabling students like 14-year-old Makenzie Gilkison, who suffers from dyslexia, to improve their academic performance. Schools are increasingly adopting AI technologies to support students with various impairments, including visual, speech, language, and hearing difficulties. The U.S. Education Department and the Department of Justice are pushing for technological aids to be made available and accessible to all students with disabilities. While there are concerns about misuse and dependency on AI potentially hindering learning, these technologies offer the potential to level the playing field and offer new opportunities. Efforts are also ongoing to develop better AI tools for children's speech and handwriting. Despite some technical challenges, educators and students are generally optimistic about the benefits of AI in special education.
News 📰️
1.) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week 📊️
A curated list of cutting-edge tech products unveiled at CES 2025, now available for purchase or preorder, including smartphones, smart glasses, and innovative charging solutions.
Naqi Logix's Neural Earbuds enable users to control devices through brain waves and micro-gestures, offering potential advancements in accessibility for individuals with limited mobility.
Apple defended its diversity policies against a shareholder proposal aimed at dismantling them, emphasizing the importance of inclusion and its robust compliance program. The move contrasts with other tech companies, like Meta and Amazon, which have recently scaled back DEI initiatives.
Drew Webber demonstrates how to integrate a USB-C capture card with the Be My Eyes app on Windows, showcasing its potential to unlock a variety of applications. An Amazon link is provided to purchase the recommended Papeaso Video Capture Card for those interested.
WIRED showcases innovative and entertaining tech from CES 2025, including AI-enabled smart glasses, autonomous robotaxis, and other forward-thinking gadgets.
Please join me in giving a warm Tidbits welcome to Vision Tech Academy, who has so very graciously agreed to support Top Tech Tidbits as a Sponsor. Full disclaimer, I am a partner in this project. Vision Tech Academy is a website, platform and online directory dedicated to empowering blind and low-vision individuals by connecting them with trusted assistive technology educators for free. Funded and founded by Donna J. Jodhan, in honor of the late John Panarese, the Vision Tech Academy free Online Directory of Educators (ODE) serves as a hub for accessible learning by offering a free directory of access educators to students seeking access technology expertise. Students may search the Directory for free. Access Educators may list their name and website for free. The Directory is supported by Access Educators who wish to reach even more students via a Premium Educator Profile, which costs just $10 / month or $100 / year, and offers a host of benefits to help access educators reach those students that need their help. If you know an access educator who has changed your life, please consider gifting them a Premium Educator Profile today. All you need is their email address at checkout. Learn more about the Vision Tech Academy Online Directory of Educators (ODE) today at: https://visiontechacademy.com/.
Aaron Di Blasi provides guidance for blind and low-vision readers on effectively navigating the Top Tech Tidbits and Access Information News newsletters. He emphasizes the advantages of using the HTML versions over text-only formats, highlighting the enhanced navigational features that improve the reading experience for blind and low-vision persons specifically.
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Next Issue: Premium Subscribers will receive their 12th issue of the Top 60 Most Clicked News Articles for January, February and March of 2025 on Monday, April 7, 2025. Back Issues: There are currently 11 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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9.) AI Updates 🤖️
Skip this Tidbit to skip all updates on AI.
Hadley's new Seeing AI series of online workshops provides easy-to-follow instructions on exploring the app, reading short text, reading documents, identifying products, and identifying money. Workshops are available online or in braille, with options for low vision users in large print. Registration is free and straightforward, ensuring accessibility for all.
In a recent AI Unlocked newsletter, WIRED's global editorial director, Katie Drummond, shared a personal story where her father was nearly scammed by a caller mimicking her voice. The discussion emphasized the increasing relevance of AI-powered scams and suggested setting up secret passcodes for call authentication. Senior editor Andrew Couts highlighted various scamming techniques, such as deepfake live videos and social engineering tactics like creating urgency. The importance of scrutinizing AI financial advisers was also noted, as some may push users towards costly financial products. Readers are encouraged to email questions and stay tuned for the next live event in February.
A team of researchers from the U.S. and the U.K. has successfully restored ELIZA, the world's first chatbot, originally developed by MIT professor Joseph Weizenbaum in the 1960s. The lost code was rediscovered in an MIT archive and painstakingly reconstructed to run on a modern environment, demonstrating ELIZA's historic role in conversational AI.
In the United States, one in five students are dyslexic or have a learning difference. Another 2.5 million have visual impairments or physical disabilities that make interacting with STEM educational content challenging. To address this disparity, Benetech, a global nonprofit advancing equitable opportunities for all learners, is announcing the launch of an initiative to transform STEM education.
In this episode of the "Uncanny Valley" podcast, hosts Michael Calore, Lauren Goode, and Zoë Schiffer share their experiences using AI assistants over a week. Michael used Gemini for health advice, Zoë employed ChatGPT for sleep-training her infant, and Lauren utilized various chatbots for holiday shopping. They found AI assistants provided general assistance but lacked personalized, proactive engagement, leading to mixed overall assessments.
Ayrin, intrigued by ChatGPT's capabilities, customized the AI to act as her boyfriend, leading to a deep emotional attachment and daily interactions for companionship.
Starkey's Genesis AI hearing aids leverage artificial intelligence to enhance speech clarity, reduce background noise, and classify complex soundscapes in real time. Designed to mimic the brain's auditory cortex, these hearing aids improve sound processing for individuals with hearing loss. With up to 51 hours of battery life, waterproof capabilities, and fall detection alerts, Genesis AI offers a comprehensive hearing solution. Users can control settings through the My Starkey app on smartphones or Apple Watches, making adjustments convenient and accessible.
Tips, Tutorials, Guides, Reviews, Walk-Throughs and How-To's 📚️
When focused on an image file attachment in Outlook Classic, you can use Picture Smart AI to describe the image without first opening or saving the attachment.
Shawn Jordison's latest guide explores how to use Microsoft Outlook's accessibility features to create accessible emails. By formatting text, designing accessible tables, and adding alt text to images, users can ensure their emails are inclusive and usable for all recipients.
News, Trends, Updates and Opinion Editorials 📰️
Steven Scott and Shaun Preece explore accessible content creation and home security solutions, highlighting the affordability and accessibility of smart home devices like Blink security cameras. They discuss barriers to entry for content creators, the importance of technology in staying connected, and the evolution of content creation tools. Special guest Stephen Robles, host of the Primary Tech podcast, joins to emphasize authenticity, accessibility, and audience reach in the digital landscape, with insights from Marc Aflalo's Your Tech Report.
Playing chess with vision loss? Why not! Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Glenn Crawford, Rita Crawford, and Marilyn Bland from the United States Blind Chess Association (USBCA). They discuss special equipment, correspondence games, and the challenges and rewards of the game. Learn about the USBCA's resources and outreach programs.
Blazie Technologies has announced the first BT Speak software update of the year, introducing new features such as improved text navigation, wireless file transfers via SMB, media speed controls, Markdown heading support, and Bluetooth enhancements. The update is free for all BT Speak owners and includes a range of usability improvements for enhanced accessibility and functionality.
Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss Microsoft's recent Microsoft 365 price increase and the impact of AI integration into the service. They examine subscription model confusion, alternatives to Microsoft Office, and challenges with email clients. Special guest Gregg Hayes joins to explore smart home technology, the transition to ARM-based computers, and the challenges of legacy software. The conversation highlights consumer implications, frustrations with Windows interfaces like File Explorer, and the balance between innovation and legacy system management.
Louis Braille's original text, "Procédé pour écrire les paroles, la musique et le plain-chant au moyen de point," remains a cornerstone of literacy for blind individuals. One of only six copies in existence, this rare book will be featured in The Dot Experience at APH, showcasing Braille's revolutionary system. The exhibit will offer both visual and tactile access, ensuring visitors can engage with this historic text.
Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive into the controversy surrounding TikTok's accessibility for blind users and discuss the media's role in accurately covering technology for the blind community. This episode also introduces "App of the Week," featuring Oorion, an innovative tool for locating personal items, with insights from listener Jenine Stanley.
NV Access kicks off the year with the release of NVDA 2024.4.2, addressing bugs in braille support and math reading in Chromium browsers. The team also discusses an add-on survey, highlights from the South Pacific Educators in Vision Impairment Conference, and provides guidance on troubleshooting add-on compatibility issues.
Google Lookout has evolved significantly since its 2018 launch, offering features like text scanning, image recognition, currency identification, and object detection for blind users. However, this article explores how Lookout could leverage Google's AI advancements, improve its OCR capabilities, expand barcode detection, and introduce video descriptions to become an indispensable tool for the visually impaired.
This video demonstrates how to set up Seeing AI to read subtitles from movies and TV shows, providing a quick alternative to audio description. Sam shares expert tips on optimizing the setup, avoiding common pitfalls, and using Bluetooth headphones for a seamless viewing experience. A must-watch for anyone seeking new accessibility solutions!
Jock Elliott shares his first impressions of the Qodosen DX-286, an ultralight radio built on the NXP TEF6686 DSP chip. Delivering strong AM, FM, and shortwave reception, the DX-286 impresses with its performance, ergonomics, and versatility. Elliott highlights its external antenna support, robust signal processing, and quiet operation, making it a valuable tool for radio enthusiasts.
22.) CES 2025 Retrospective | Kate Sonka | Teach Access | Linkedin.com | January 17, 2025
Kate Sonka reflects on CES 2025, sharing insights on accessibility advancements, key exhibits, and panel discussions. She highlights Samsung's accessibility innovations, Whispp's assistive voice technology, and the increasing emphasis on inclusive design at CES. Sonka also discusses her participation in panels, including a last-minute opportunity on STEM education, and underscores the growing presence of accessibility advocates at the event. She emphasizes the importance of ensuring new technologies work for everyone and encourages ongoing advocacy in the field.
Researchers have developed a skin-inspired optical sensor capable of reading Braille at the speed of touch, enhancing tactile feedback technologies.
The latest release of the Object Location Tones NVDA add-on introduces significant improvements, including expanded settings, new gestures, and enhanced flexibility in caret location reporting. Users can now toggle caret reporting, select different reporting modes, and benefit from real-time adjustments within the settings panel. This update also includes bug fixes, micro-optimizations, and better edit field detection. The final minor release in the 24.x series, it paves the way for exciting new features in the upcoming 25.x series.
Windows 10 Home users will be able to enroll in an Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for $30 per year, extending critical security patches for up to three years. While no official enrollment mechanism is available yet, it is expected to be introduced closer to Windows 10's end-of-support date in October. This program mirrors similar commercial and educational ESU offerings, focusing solely on security updates without additional feature enhancements.
HumanWare has launched its new podcast, See Things Differently with HumanWare, with its first episode now available for streaming. Hosted by Rachel, Peter, and David, the debut episode features conversations with JJ Meddaugh and Bob Sweetman, sharing tips, tricks, and entertaining anecdotes. Listeners can tune in on popular podcast platforms, Victor Reader Stream/Trek, or through the provided link.
The University of Maryland, College Park, is conducting a research study on how AI-based video hiring tools impact people with disabilities. Participants will take part in a mock interview via Zoom, answering behavioral and situational questions. The study aims to uncover potential biases in AI-driven hiring systems. Participants will receive a $50 gift card for their time. Interested individuals can contact the research team at: houyu@umd.edu 📧️ or ycao55@utexas.edu 📧️ or +1 (310) 498-6678 📱️
Strap Tech Ara is a groundbreaking assistive device that helps blind and visually impaired individuals navigate their surroundings safely. Utilizing ultrasonic and LiDAR sensors, Ara detects obstacles and provides timely haptic feedback, reducing collisions by 80% and decreasing injury risk by 30%.
Vision Tech Academy (VTA), founded by Donna J. Jodhan, is an innovative online platform designed to empower blind and low-vision individuals worldwide. VTA offers a free Online Directory of Educators (ODE), connecting students with access technology educators specializing in tools like JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and Braille technology. The academy serves as a living tribute to the late John D. Panarese, a pioneer in accessibility education.
Microsoft has announced that support for Microsoft 365 Office apps on Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025. Users are advised to upgrade to Windows 11 to continue receiving updates and support for applications like Word, Excel, and Outlook. While these apps will still function on Windows 10 after the support cutoff, they may experience performance and reliability issues over time due to the lack of future updates.
Stephen Clower, a blind technologist and video editor, integrates Envision Glasses and the AI assistant ally into his daily life. Ally assists him in identifying vehicles, navigating snowy terrains, analyzing visual elements in his professional work, and summarizing restaurant menus, thereby enhancing his independence and confidence.
The American Printing House (APH) develops annual product roadmaps to identify gaps in current offerings and prioritize updates, with this year's focus on Braille Technology. Research efforts from January to May will include surveys, interviews, and focus groups to assess needs in refreshable braille displays and early braille learning. The roadmap aims to align short- and long-term goals, enhance customer engagement, and drive impactful product development.
Kay Savetz, curator of the Digital Library of Amateur Radio and Communications, highlights efforts to preserve the history of amateur radio and related communications. DLARC has digitized over 140,000 materials, including magazines, manuals, and historic recordings, making them accessible to researchers and enthusiasts. The initiative seeks to safeguard media collections that are often lost when creators pass away, emphasizing the need for systematic preservation in the digital age.
ElliQ is an AI-powered robotic companion designed to provide proactive and empathetic support, particularly for seniors and individuals with disabilities. It engages users in conversation, suggests games, provides reminders for health and wellness, and facilitates communication through video calls and messaging. ElliQ also offers assistance with daily living, including medication reminders and exercise guidance, enhancing independence and reducing social isolation.
Featured Events 📅️
11:00 AM PT, 12:00 PM MT, 1:00 PM CT, 2:00 PM ET, 7:00 PM GMT
Join Jason Goldfield, Assistive Technology expert and teacher at Florida Outreach Center for the Blind, for a discussion on A.I. and its transformative potential for individuals who are visually impaired. The session explores how A.I. enhances independence, accessibility, and quality of life, covering smart devices, voice-controlled assistants, wearable technology, and navigation tools. Attendees will also examine ethical concerns surrounding A.I. and emerging advancements that could further benefit the blind community.
9:00 AM PT, 10:00 AM MT, 11:00 AM CT, 12:00 PM ET, 5:00 PM GMT
Join Orbit Research for its January Zoom meeting, hosted by Robert Carter. This session provides updates, insights, and discussions on the latest advancements in assistive technology, focusing on Orbit Research products and their applications for the blind and visually impaired community.
7:00 AM PT, 8:00 AM MT, 9:00 AM CT, 10:00 AM ET, 3:00 PM GMT
Join Thriving Blind Academy for the 2025 Succeed Without Sight Summit, a transformative global event uniting over 10,000 attendees across six continents. This virtual summit features more than 50 speakers sharing innovative tools, stories, and strategies to empower blind and low-vision individuals to thrive. Discover cutting-edge technologies, connect with changemakers, and explore strategies for fostering inclusion and breaking barriers.
4:00 PM PT, 5:00 PM MT, 6:00 PM CT, 7:00 PM ET, 12:00 AM GMT
Join NLS for an engaging program on navigating books and articles using NLS Braille eReaders. This one-hour session includes a short presentation followed by a Q&A to address questions about the eReaders. The session will be recorded, and participants can join via Zoom using the provided link.
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.
10:00 AM PT, 11:00 AM MT, 12:00 PM CT, 1:00 PM ET, 6:00 PM GMT
Join Marisa Church, an expert assistive technology specialist, for an in-depth webinar on maximizing the use of JAWS. Learn about search tools, help menu options, and the new FSCompanion AI-powered assistant, along with free training materials. This session covers efficient navigation of Microsoft documents, managing complex ribbons, web searching techniques, and a demonstration of the FSCompanion assistant to enhance productivity.
11:00 AM PT, 12:00 PM MT, 1:00 PM CT, 2:00 PM ET, 7:00 PM GMT
Accessible Web presents an in-depth webinar exploring the accessibility features of the new Meta Smart Glasses. This session provides a first-hand overview and demo, showcasing how this wearable technology can support people with disabilities. The presentation includes insights from Accessibility UX Testing Coordinator Heather Berg and may cover other assistive technologies. Following the demo, the Accessible Web team will be available for a Q&A on accessibility and RAMP-related topics.
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.
In this free, two-day virtual workshop, Teach Access offers students and lifelong learners the opportunity to enhance their accessibility skills. The workshop features speakers like Haben Girma and includes opportunities to connect with employers in the accessibility field, making it a great event for both beginners and experienced individuals looking to strengthen their expertise.
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 34,000 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: 1/23/2025 | Price: $2,000.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used | Description: This display has only been used a handful of times. I do not have the original cords (it has moved with me several times) but it takes a USB-C charger and those are easy to come by. Contact: cmm069141@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 🎯️

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!
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My pottery pieces are designed to inspire your creativity and imagination! Each piece is crafted with care, offering a unique touch to your home and dining experience. Whether you're looking for elegant dinnerware, functional art, or custom pieces, I can help you bring your vision to life. From rustic charm to modern elegance, I specialize in creating pottery that fits your personal style and elevates your dining table. Let me customize a one-of-a-kind creation that reflects your taste and enhances your space, adding beauty and warmth to every meal.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Unbeatable Prices: Enjoy the best prices on the web without the hassle. We ensure you get great deals on everything you need!
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.
➜ Uncover the Best Deals: Never miss a door buster, coupon, or clearance sale again. Get notified about the best prices and offers.
➜ AI Summarized Trusted Reviews: See what others are saying and make confident purchases.
➜ All in One: Innosearch brings millions of products from top online retailers directly to you, allowing you to shop the best deals with easy checkout and personalized AI assistance.
➜ Shop with Confidence: Rest assured, Innosearch has you covered with free shipping and returns on every purchase.
➜ 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!

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.

A common issue that arises during the remediation of PDFs is the inappropriate nesting of heading tags.
My latest guide explains how to use Microsoft Outlook's accessibility features to create accessible emails. By formatting text, designing accessible tables, and adding alt text to images, you can ensure your emails are usable for everyone.
For more accessibility tips and demos, check out my courses and community!
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.

As we wrap up another year, Selvas BLV extends heartfelt thanks to all our valued customers for your trust and support. Your dedication to empowering the blind and low-vision community inspires us every day. We look forward to continuing to innovate for you in the coming year. Wishing you a joyful and prosperous New Year filled with possibilities!
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 📱️.

Sponsor Since: January 15, 2025 📅️
Website: https://visiontechacademy.com/ 🌐️
About: Vision Tech Academy is a website, platform and online directory dedicated to empowering blind and low-vision individuals by connecting them with trusted assistive technology educators for free.
Vision Tech Academy is the home of the free, access-technology specific, Online Directory of Educators (ODE).
Inspired by the legacy of John Panarese, the Academy website serves as a hub for accessible learning, offering a free directory of access educators, live and recorded courses, and resources to foster learning independence and success.
With an ongoing mission to provide high-quality, trusted, personalized training on tools like VoiceOver, JAWS, NVDA and Braille technology, Vision Tech Academy bridges the gap between technology and accessibility, ensuring inclusive and accessible education for all.
📖️ Free Directory for Students
📖️ Free General Profiles for All Access Educators
🏅️ Premium Profiles for Access Educators Who Want More Reach

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

Valentine's Day is Friday, February 14th. Give a gift that will be treasured not just for the sentiment, but for the thoughtful message incorporated into the design, using braille or with precision engraving. You know you'll love her always and forever, so give her our Love Always and Forever 3-piece heart pendant, bracelet, and earrings set, available in 3 metal and 3 gemstone combinations. Give a sweet little something to sis, mom, or BFF with our Charmed by the Holidays Valentine's Day mobility cane charm. Remember those sweet candy hearts we used to exchange when we were kids? She'll love our gorgeous Conversation Hearts Charm Bracelet, with braille messages such as "be mine," "luv you," or "XOXO." Or, give your sweetie a keepsake with a custom message. Elegant Insights Braille Creations offers gifts that speak volumes, without saying a word. Shop online or call +1 (702) 605-1265 📱️.
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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.
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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 34,000 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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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
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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.
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Email: publisher@toptechtidbits.com 📧️
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PR Director (2024-Present)
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The Week's News in Artificial Intelligence
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Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. 🌐
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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.
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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 🌐
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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
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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)
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Access and Technology Advisor
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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
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Location: Benton City, WA
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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.
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