
Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, January 30, 2025 - Volume 1000 ♿️
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
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Updates include:
- Introduction: One Thousand Issues of Top Tech Tidbits 🚀️
- Subscriber Counts 🔢️
- Sponsorship Package Pricing 💸️
- Change in Submission Time for All Content in 2025 ⌚️
- How To Read Top Tech Tidbits or Access Information News as a Blind or Low-Vision Person 🦯️
- Removing “Visually Impaired” From Our Verbiage ♿️
- Why You May Not Want To Provide Readers With Links To MP3 or MP4 Files Directly 📁️
- I Ran An Advertisement In One Of Your Newsletters and It Didn't Sell My Product or Service. Can I Have My Money Back? 📢️
- A Future Built on Access, Empowerment, and Community 🤝️
- Still Have Questions or Concerns ❓️
Read the complete list of updates here.
Access Awareness: Updates That Matter ♿️
Amazon has announced the introduction of a Dual Audio feature. This feature allows users to listen through hearing aids while others listen via standard TV speakers. Initially available on the Fire TV Omni Mini LED, it uses the ASHA protocol and marks the first instance of simultaneous streaming with different audio outputs on Fire TV. ASHA support is expanding to include more hearing aids like Widex Moment BTE and RIC models, compatible with a variety of Fire TV devices. Furthermore, Amazon is enhancing packaging accessibility with tactile QR codes for easy information access for those with visual impairments. Separately, new packaging for Echo, Kindle, and Fire TV hardware will use more recycled materials and less ink.
News 📰️
1.) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week 📊️
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!
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.
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.
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.
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7.) AI Updates 🤖️
Skip this Tidbit to skip all updates on AI.
Haptikos has introduced a hand exoskeleton designed to provide precise haptic feedback in extended reality applications, enabling users to experience tactile sensations and interact with virtual objects using their fingers.
BlindAI is a new discussion group focused on artificial intelligence and its impact on blind and visually impaired individuals. Covering AI advancements from major tech companies like Microsoft, Google, Apple, and AI-driven accessibility solutions from En-Vision, Orcam, Humanware, and others, this group provides a space for members to explore, discuss, and stay informed about emerging technologies. Participants are encouraged to contribute and engage in respectful, on-topic discussions.
OpenAI has unveiled Operator, an AI agent capable of autonomously performing tasks on the web by interacting with a browser much like a human user. Initially available to Pro users in the U.S., Operator aims to streamline various online activities through advanced automation.
Meta's new Live AI introduces a hands-free, continuous video chat experience without needing to repeatedly activate the assistant. Users can ask about their surroundings, objects, and text in real-time. This early access feature shows promise for accessibility, though it still has areas for improvement in recognizing complex environments.
Here is a link from the AI workshop that was held over Zoom on Thursday, January 23, 2025 from the Florida Outreach Center For The Blind.
The University of Surrey has launched SignGPT, a five-year project funded with £8.45 million, aiming to develop generative AI tools that translate between sign language and spoken language, enhancing communication for the Deaf community. The initiative involves collaboration with the University of Oxford, University College London, Deaf linguists, and the Deaf community to ensure inclusivity and accuracy in the technology's development.
LocalWriter is a new extension for LibreOffice Writer that enables inline generative editing using local AI models, supporting any language model compatible with Ollama or text-generation-webui. It introduces two commands: 'Extend Selection' to predict and continue text, and 'Edit Selection' to modify selected text based on user instructions, facilitating tasks like tone adjustment, translation, and content expansion. Future updates aim to include support for LibreOffice Calc and additional features.
8.) Apple Updates 🍎️
Skip this Tidbit to skip all updates on Apple.
Beyond The Gallery is a community platform where users can share and discover shortcuts for Apple's Shortcuts app. Members can sign up, submit their own shortcuts for approval, and explore a variety of user-contributed shortcuts across multiple categories.
Apple Intelligence, introduced in iOS 18.1, includes features like automatic transcription and custom emojis. To disable it, go to Settings > Apple Intelligence & Siri and toggle it off. You can also turn off specific features or app interactions, such as email summarization in Mail or the ChatGPT extension for Siri.
Apple has released macOS Sequoia 15.3, introducing Genmoji creation in Messages and other apps, enhancements to notification summaries, and various bug fixes and security updates. The update also includes performance and stability improvements for tvOS 18.3 and unspecified updates for HomePod software 18.3.
Apple has released iOS 18.3 and iPadOS 18.3, introducing changes to notification summaries on Apple Intelligence-capable devices and several bug fixes. The update enables Apple Intelligence automatically on supported devices, which can be disabled in settings if desired. No specific changes affecting blind, deaf-blind, or low vision users were identified in this release.
Apple has released watchOS 11.3, addressing VoiceOver volume issues and introducing the Unity Rhythm watch face to honor Black history and culture for Black History Month. The update also renames the 'Volume' rotor to 'Speech Volume' for VoiceOver users.
Apple's Stolen Device Protection, introduced in iOS 17.3, enhances security by requiring Face ID to access sensitive features when your iPhone is in an unfamiliar location. To enable it, ensure Face ID, a passcode, two-factor authentication, and Significant Locations are active, then toggle on Stolen Device Protection in the Face ID & Passcode settings.
Apple's text-to-speech technology has remained largely unchanged since iOS 16, trailing behind AI-powered voices from platforms like Microsoft Azure and OpenAI. The gap is primarily due to hardware limitations, as modern AI voices rely on high-powered servers, while Apple's voices must run efficiently on a broad range of devices. Future improvements in iPhone hardware may narrow this gap, but for now, Apple's free, offline TTS voices remain a viable option for many users.
Tips, Tutorials, Guides, Reviews, Walk-Throughs and How-To's 📚️
AppReader is a ZoomText feature that reads documents, web pages, and other content aloud.
The latest GoldWave add-on 25.02 for NVDA is now available, requiring NVDA 2024.1 or later. This release restores limited support for Windows 8.1 and earlier Windows 10 versions, though users are advised to upgrade to Windows 10 22H2 or later for the best experience.
In this episode, Desiree Renae provides basic information about the audio editing software Reaper, including where to download it, essential plugins for screen reader compatibility, available training courses, and a brief overview of its basic functionalities.
Learn how to create an organizational chart using Venngage while ensuring accessibility.
A step-by-step guide with video details how to use JAWS screen reader with Google Search to locate McDonald's restaurants equipped with JAWS for Kiosk technology, including JAWS navigation commands and tips for filtering search results.
This comprehensive guide provides a step-by-step approach to starting a successful blog, covering topics such as choosing a niche, selecting a domain name, setting up hosting, customizing design, and creating engaging content. It emphasizes the importance of understanding your audience, maintaining consistency, and utilizing SEO strategies to attract and retain readers.
Callie Faucher introduces the concept of alternative text (alt text), emphasizing its importance in web accessibility for individuals with visual impairments and other disabilities. The article provides best practices for implementing concise and effective alt text to enhance digital inclusivity.
This comprehensive guide outlines the process of building a personal website using WordPress, covering aspects such as choosing a hosting plan, selecting a domain name, picking a theme, and customizing the homepage. It emphasizes the benefits of having a personal website, including full control over content and design, and the ability to establish a permanent online presence.
The Document Foundation has released the LibreOffice Calc Guide 24.8, an updated manual featuring enhancements from the latest LibreOffice 24.8 Calc module. The guide includes improved clarity, readability, and content additions, such as database table referencing in formulas and a restructured charts section. Special acknowledgments were given to contributors for their roles in reviewing and formatting the guide.
News, Trends, Updates and Opinion Editorials 📰️
Catch up on everything happening in the Top Tech Tidbits and Access Information News communities as Top Tech Tidbits publishes its one thousandth issue.
Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss the Oko app's subscription model, listener expectations for paid assistive technology, and challenges with the Meta Portal device. The episode also covers winter safety tips, social perceptions of blindness, and the natural behaviors of blind individuals.
An overview of top smart glasses available, including the Viture Pro XR Glasses for virtual screens and the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses with built-in cameras, highlighting their features and pricing.
Want to kick start your progress to independence? Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Kurt Deichmann and Brian Clark of First Aid for the Blind about their innovative training program. The week-long remote sessions teach life-changing skills and provide vital tools to newly blind individuals, helping them quickly regain confidence and independence.
Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss the rise of DeepSeek as a new AI competitor, Google's latest accessibility updates, and challenges in improving Facebook's accessibility. The episode also covers Apple Watch accessibility issues, modern Braille education approaches, and a talking microwave conversion kit.
Bookshop.org has launched an ebook platform and app, enabling local bookstores to sell digital books directly to customers, aiming to provide an alternative to Amazon and support independent bookstores.
Android 16 introduces enhanced support for LE Audio hearing aids, including ambient volume controls to adjust external sound levels and the ability to switch between the hearing aid's built-in microphones and the phone's microphone during voice calls, improving performance in noisy environments.
The National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled has released a Braille edition of 'Teach Yourself Visually Windows 11' by Paul McFedries, available on BARD. This five-volume guide provides step-by-step instructions with illustrations to help users navigate and customize Windows 11. The book covers file management, digital media, system maintenance, security, and more. It is also available on Bookshare for eligible users.
Fred Moltz discusses the development of Verizon's accessibility program, highlighting its expansion from website compliance to a comprehensive approach benefiting both employees and customers, and emphasizing the importance of collaboration and societal initiatives in promoting accessibility.
Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss Braille literacy and its connection to employment, leadership in blindness organizations, and community support for those with sight loss. The episode also includes a practical guide on changing Apple AirTag batteries, along with listener insights and industry perspectives.
The Canberra Blind Society of Australia offers a kit that converts microwaves less than 5 years old into talking appliances, enhancing accessibility for individuals with visual impairments. The kit is priced at $210 and requires installation by an appliance technician.
The author finds the Tecsun PL-880 to be an ideal companion for relaxation, enjoying classical and jazz music during afternoon naps and late-night reading sessions.
The latest Jieshuo screen reader update introduces text input for voice assistant functions, a new method to inquire about the current focus, customizable back and recent apps gestures in textboxes, automatic on-screen window switching, and a 'Show All Nodes' feature for enhanced navigation.
Sam introduces a simple life hack for blind and low-vision individuals to differentiate their credit and debit cards using vinyl covers or stickers. The method helps users easily identify their cards by touch, making financial transactions more accessible.
Starkey's new Edge AI RIC RT hearing aids integrate a neural processing unit, distinguishing them as the only NPU-powered hearing aids on the market. Built with a classic behind-the-ear design, these aids are available in seven colors, each weighing 2.62 grams. An audiologist is needed for fitting and tuning, and Starkey provides comprehensive support, including custom eartips for a perfect fit. The hearing aids feature an AI-powered mode called Edge Mode+ for enhanced sound quality and personalized settings via the My Starkey app. The aids deliver excellent volume and clarity, with minimal feedback and no background hiss. They offer 51 hours of battery life per full charge, supported by a carrying case providing three additional charges. The My Starkey app includes features such as individual volume adjustment, a hearing aid locator, and fall detection. Prices range from $3,500 to $5,750, making them a high-end but potentially worthwhile investment for superior hearing support and comfort.
During Samsung's Unpacked event, the company announced that the Galaxy S25 will be the first to receive Gemini-based image descriptions and Braille HID support, raising concerns about delaying essential screen reader features for existing devices.
Carrie explores how Android users with low vision can benefit from the large lock screen clock on Pixel devices and how to adjust display settings for better accessibility. She also covers ways to slightly enlarge the clock on Samsung devices and improve overall screen readability.
The latest episode of 'What's New in Google Accessibility' highlights upcoming accessibility improvements across Google's ecosystem. Updates cover products such as Pixel, Android, ChromeOS, Workspace, and Wallet, showcasing new features designed to enhance usability and inclusivity for all users.
Google is rolling out updates to enhance Android's accessibility features, including improved hearing aid support with LE Audio technology and expanded TalkBack capabilities for braille display users.
Studio 24 has partnered with RNIB to revamp the Bookshare website, enhancing accessibility for over 59,000 UK students with vision impairments or reading difficulties. The upgraded platform offers more than a million books and images in formats like electronic braille and audio, supporting equal educational opportunities.
In this Tech Doctor podcast, Robert interviews seven members of the Blazie Technologies team, including Deane Blazie and his three sons, discussing their commitment to customer-driven development of the BT Speak and highlighting new features from the January 2025 update.
Rivian plans to launch a new Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) this year to enable hands-free driving, similar to Tesla's Full-Self Driving. In 2026, the company aims to introduce an "eyes-free" system. The upcoming hands-free and attention-free autonomous highway driving features will be available on the forthcoming R2 model, a smaller electric SUV expected in the first half of 2026, starting at around $45,000.
Android 16 is removing the ability for apps to restrict orientation and resizability at the platform level, promoting adaptive apps that adjust seamlessly to different screen sizes and orientations. This change aims to reduce fragmentation, better meet user expectations, and improve accessibility by respecting the user's preferred orientation.
Google has announced new ChromeOS features focused on accessibility and classroom environments. Among the highlights is a feature allowing users to control Chromebooks with head and facial expressions, aimed at individuals with motor impairments. This follows Google's previous development of the Project Gameface AI tool for Windows and Android. Additionally, Google plans to launch over 20 new Chromebooks in 2025, including the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus and the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 2-in-1. Classroom-specific features include Class Tools, which enable teachers to manage students' screens in real-time, share content, and use live captions or translations. Google Classroom is also integrating Figma's FigJam for collaborative online whiteboards.
Abbott's Lingo is a continuous glucose monitor designed for non-diabetics to track blood sugar levels without frequent needle pricks. The device features a small sensor applied to the arm, which reads blood glucose continuously. The accompanying app offers tracking, lifestyle challenges, educational content, and a proprietary metric called the Lingo Count to assess glucose spikes' impact on the body. While beneficial for detecting blood sugar fluctuations, the device's $89 monthly cost for sensors, which require bi-weekly replacement, may be a consideration for potential users.
The author shares strategies for converting PowerPoint presentations into Microsoft Sway documents to enhance readability for individuals with low vision. The process involves importing PowerPoint files into Sway to create single-column layouts with consistent font sizes and simplified backgrounds, making it easier to follow along during lectures and access content on various devices.
From 7-8 May 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) will host the fourth GATE Summit in collaboration with UNICEF, aiming to unite key stakeholders to prioritize actions that accelerate equitable access to assistive technology globally.
This article outlines seven legitimate methods to access free ebooks, including utilizing library apps like Libby, exploring the Open Library, checking Amazon's free ebook section, and visiting sites offering public domain books.
The article discusses the complexities and challenges involved in creating accessible PDF files, emphasizing that the process is often more complicated than commonly perceived. It highlights the importance of proper document structuring in word processors and the misconceptions surrounding the ease of making PDFs accessible.
Designing tactile maps for visually impaired individuals involves balancing the inclusion of braille with practicality. While 2D maps can easily incorporate braille labels, 3D maps face challenges due to increased printing time and material usage. To address this, detailed information is often provided in separate keys and legends, allowing for efficient map design without overcrowding with braille labels.
My Eye is an innovative app designed to empower blind and visually impaired users by providing detailed, real-time visual information through advanced artificial intelligence.
Phonak has expanded its Infinio technology platform with the introduction of two new in-the-ear hearing aids, the Virto Titanium Infinio and Virto 10 NW O Infinio. These custom devices offer enhanced discretion, personalization, and sound quality, featuring Phonak SmartSpeech Technology and AutoSense OS 6.0 for optimized speech understanding and listening comfort in dynamic environments. The Infinio platform has also earned multiple prestigious awards, including the 2025 BIG Innovation Award and the 2024 Hearing Health Innovator Award, reflecting its industry-leading impact on hearing care.
Featured Events 📅️
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
Join Freedom Scientific for an in-depth session on using NLS eReaders with JAWS. Special guest Tamara Rorie from the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS) provides an overview of the eReaders available from NLS, their features, and practical tips for connecting them to a computer and using them with JAWS. Presenters include Elizabeth Whitaker, Ron Miller, and Rachel Buchanan.
9:00 AM PT, 10:00 AM MT, 11:00 AM CT, 12:00 PM ET, 5:00 PM GMT
The National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS) provides refreshable braille displays, called eReaders, to eligible library patrons for accessing books and other reading materials in braille. Special guest Tamara Rorie from NLS will give an overview of the eReaders, highlight key features, and share practical tips for connecting the device to a computer and using it with JAWS.
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.
2:00 PM GMT, 3:00 PM CET, 4:00 PM EET
Allyant's accessibility experts provide a clear and practical guide to understanding and meeting the European Accessibility Act's requirements for digital documents. Attendees will gain actionable insights into making existing inaccessible documents accessible, creating accessible content efficiently, and ensuring ongoing compliance. Topics include EAA digital document standards, accessible pathways for compliance, and the “Show Up, Catch Up, Keep Up” methodology to assess, address, and maintain accessibility.
10:00 AM PT, 11:00 AM MT, 12:00 PM CT, 1:00 PM ET, 6:00 PM GMT
Bookshare is a paid service offering books and periodicals in braille, DAISY, and audio formats, including many titles unavailable in the NLS collection. Lara from Bookshare will explore how to use the iOS app and Alexa skill, as well as discuss the organization's future initiatives.
9:00 AM PT, 10:00 AM MT, 11:00 AM CT, 12:00 PM ET, 5:00 PM GMT
Join TPGi's Justin Stockton, Product Manager, for a webinar exploring how to integrate accessibility testing seamlessly into the software development lifecycle (SDLC) and CI/CD pipelines. This session covers proactive accessibility strategies, leveraging TPGi's ARC Platform for streamlined testing and reporting, automating accessibility checks within CI/CD, and best practices for building inclusive digital experiences.
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 35,000 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.
7:00 AM PT, 8:00 AM MT, 9:00 AM CT, 10:00 AM ET, 3:00 PM GMT
Join TPGi's accessibility experts, David Swallow and Mitchell Evan, for a deep dive into EN 301 549, Europe's digital accessibility standard. Learn how this regulation influences ICT accessibility policy beyond Europe, its impact on procurement and digital content, and how organizations can develop comprehensive accessibility strategies for compliance.
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.
The World Health Organization, in collaboration with UNICEF, hosts the fourth GATE Summit to drive global efforts in expanding equitable access to assistive technology. This hybrid event at WHO headquarters in Geneva will bring together key stakeholders to develop a consensus-driven global roadmap for investment and action, leveraging the WHO-GATE 5P framework and the ten recommendations from the WHO and UNICEF Global Report on Assistive Technology.
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 🎯️

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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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.
And check out the highlight of the month.
Sponsor Since: September 20, 2024 📅️
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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.
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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.
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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

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.

Creating accessible organizational charts is essential for ensuring inclusivity in digital documents. Venngage, a user-friendly design tool, provides templates and accessibility features to make charts easy to navigate for people using screen readers and other assistive technologies.
My latest guide walks through the step-by-step process of selecting a template, formatting it for accessibility, and running accessibility checks to ensure compliance with standards like PDF/UA and WCAG.
Get direct access to The Accessibility Guy! Join my community today.
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 📧️
About: At Aira, we believe access to information is a human right. Aira breaks down accessibility barriers by providing on-demand video remote interpreting for both the blind and low-vision community, and the Deaf Community. People can download the Aira Explorer app or the Aira ASL app, and be instantly connected to a professional interpreter. Available 24/7/365, interpreters work with callers to facilitate more efficient communication and accomplish tasks together. Aira is proud to lead the way in delivering secure, on-demand, inclusive services that transform lives and open doors to new opportunities for all.
Contact Us | Access Partners | Plans and Pricing
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.
Social: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram

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

Join: Waiting List 📋️
Sponsor Since: Today 📅️
Website: https://toptechtidbits.com/sponsor 🌐️
Phone: (855) 578-6660 📱️
Email: enews@toptechtidbits.com 📧️
About: Founded in 2004, Top Tech Tidbits is the world's leading not-for-profit access technology publication that reaches over 35,000 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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Support: In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Top Tech Tidbits possible.
Become a Top Tech Tidbits Platinum Supporter today.
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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)
Social Marketing Professional
Hootsuite Certified (2020 - Present)
Email Marketing Professional
Constant Contact Certified (2019 - Present)
Specializing in:
Digital Strategy and Content Marketing
Social Media Advertising
Online Fundraising
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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