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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, October 2, 2025 - Volume 1035
♿️ The Week's News in Access Technology
Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology.
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
Subscribers: 42,083 🔢️ opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email.
Access Awareness: Updates That Matter ♿️
Target Corporation today announced the launch of a first-of-its-kind accessible self-checkout experience, designed with and for guests with disabilities, including those who are blind or have low vision. Beginning this holiday season and continuing into early 2026, the solution will roll out to self-checkout stations across Target stores nationwide, as part of Target's ongoing checkout improvements. The accessible self-checkout is another example of how Target is creating joyful guest experiences throughout the holiday season and beyond.
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News 📰️
1.) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week 📊️
Greetings everyone. I am very excited to announce to you today the official launch of the PWD Media Distribution Cooperative. Why and how is it a “cooperative”? Well, that is precisely what I hope to explain in the following paragraphs. Let's open with a bit of background as to how this cooperative got started, and then I'll explain what it is, what it does, how it works, and finally, how you can reach out for consideration if you're interested.
Meta's latest AI glasses enhance independence for visually impaired users, allowing them to stream video, interact with the environment, and utilize apps like "Be My Eyes" for real-time assistance. The glasses feature optical character recognition to read text aloud, though their effectiveness varies, showcasing the need for ongoing development in assistive technologies for the blind.
The new Outlook desktop app has a new design that differs from that of Outlook Classic, and can be navigated with JAWS using keyboard commands. In Outlook Classic, you can check spelling by pressing F7; however, this keyboard command does not work in the new Outlook. Instead, to check spelling and grammar in the new Outlook, take these steps.
Meta's new Ray-Ban Display smart glasses are set to revolutionize accessibility for blind and low-vision users, featuring built-in screen reader capabilities and AI integrations. Saqib Shaikh from Microsoft shares insights on how these advancements could mark a significant moment akin to the launch of the iPhone in the realm of assistive technology.
Carveco's tactile art technology is reshaping how blind and visually impaired individuals interact with imagery, bringing emotional connections through tactile experiences. This episode showcases a London exhibition featuring 3D-printed photographs and engaging discussions on the profound impact of touchable art.
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Next Issue: Premium Subscribers will receive their 14th issue of the Top 60 Most Clicked News Articles for April, May and June of 2025 on Monday, October 6, 2025. Back Issues: There are currently 13 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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This article outlines, step-by-step, how you can get free website traffic reporting on any link to your domain (AKA domain name, website or web address) that has been published by Top Tech Tidbits since January 18, 2024, when we launched this feature.
7.) Apple Updates 🍎️
Skip this Tidbit to skip all updates on Apple.
The September 2025 edition of AppleVis Unlimited showcases the latest updates in accessibility apps, exciting new features, and notable content within the community, including the introduction of a new monthly highlight for app recommendations. Among the featured content are highlights from various app entries, updates, podcasts, and discussions that cater to users with visual impairments.
Apple has released iOS 26.0.1 and iPadOS 26.0.1, addressing several bugs including an issue where some users lost VoiceOver speech after updating to iOS 26. While no external testing was conducted prior to release, the major focus was on fixing specific connectivity problems with select iPhone models.
This guide details how VoiceOver users can navigate and manage bookmarks in Safari on iOS 26. It includes step-by-step instructions for accessing bookmarks, creating folders, and organizing saved items, as well as highlighting important accessibility updates from previous versions.
The iPhone Air impresses with its ultrathin design and improved accessibility, making it a desirable choice for users seeking a lightweight phone. However, it has notable drawbacks, such as typing issues and the controversial Dynamic Island feature, which detracts from an otherwise successful iteration. Overall, the Air represents a significant step in smartphone evolution, blending convenience and performance.
At a recent workshop, Apple showcased advancements in natural language processing through a presentation on reinforcement learning for AI agents. The reliance on AI for tasks such as payment processing highlights its potential to enhance accessibility for individuals with disabilities, making everyday transactions more manageable.
8.) AI Updates 🤖️
Skip this Tidbit to skip all updates on AI.
The Alterego wearable device allows silent communication by interpreting brain signals and mouth movements without the need for spoken words. Developed by MIT Media Lab, it enables users to converse silently, set reminders, and communicate across languages, offering potential benefits for those with speech impairments.
Meta Ray-Ban Display, featuring a heads-up display, is now available for purchase in select physical US stores with a pre-requisite in-person fitting. The glasses are priced at $800 and support a range of prescriptions while offering various smart features, including navigation and messaging.
A new headset technology is being introduced to enhance the experience of football matches for visually impaired fans. By providing audio descriptions and real-time information, it aims to make attending games more enjoyable and accessible.
Amazon Web Services (AWS) partnered with Dentsu Creative and ONCE to create ComicCast, a groundbreaking app that transforms comic books into audio narratives for blind and visually impaired users. The application was unveiled at San Diego Comic-Con, marking a significant step toward making comics accessible to a broader audience and demonstrating the potential of generative AI technology in promoting cultural inclusivity.
Microsoft has introduced Agent Mode in Word and Excel, powered by Microsoft 365 Copilot, allowing users to create professional documents and spreadsheets with simple prompts. This new feature aims to simplify the use of advanced software functionalities for individuals with varying technical skills.
The Ray-Ban Meta Gen 2 smart glasses offer significant improvements including double the battery life and enhanced video quality while maintaining the same design as the previous model. Despite some limitations in AI capabilities and photographic features, these glasses are positioned as the top choice for consumers interested in smart eyewear.
This study introduces the IPOIAR-DPRNN method to enhance indoor activity recognition systems for individuals with disabilities using advanced deep learning techniques and sensor data processing. The method achieves a superior accuracy of 97.11% compared to existing techniques, highlighting its potential for improving the lives of disabled individuals through more effective monitoring of daily activities.
This article explores Lucyd Eyewear's smart glasses and their focus on accessibility. The glasses offer Bluetooth connectivity for audio functions and aim to provide an alternative to traditional headphones, highlighting the potential benefits for users with sensory conditions and those who wear glasses.
Tips, Tutorials, Guides, Reviews, Walk-Throughs and How-To's 📚️
When in a meeting or webinar hosted on the Zoom conferencing platform, you may not want to hear JAWS speak alerts such as when someone enters or leaves the meeting, or when a participant raises their hand. Follow these steps to disable these alerts using JAWS.
Gain practical insights into transforming non-accessible college PDFs into fully WCAG-compliant documents. This guide utilizes a real example from Evergreen College, highlighting key techniques for identifying and rectifying accessibility issues.
The European Accessibility Act introduces vital regulations regarding PDF accessibility, outlining the necessary standards for compliance among organizations. Essential guidelines focus on creating accessible digital documents to ensure equal access for all users.
Explore three methods for adding alt text to images in PDF files using Adobe Acrobat Pro DC. Additionally, learn about DocAccess, a tool that streamlines this process for larger volumes and offers features such as document previews in accessible formats, form completion capabilities, and AI-driven support.
News, Trends, Updates and Opinion Editorials 📰️
Amazon's latest hardware unveil showcases groundbreaking devices including the Echo Dot Max, Echo Studio, and enhanced Ring cameras, alongside key insights into the anticipated Alexa Plus features. Meanwhile, the ongoing Uber ADA lawsuit poses significant questions about accessibility for disabled riders, as journalist Shelly Brisbin explores the legal landscape affecting gig economy platforms.
Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with renowned audiobook narrator Scott Brick, the voice behind over 1200 audiobooks you may have enjoyed including many bestsellers. They talk about Scott's career, the importance of voice care and hydration, his coaching of others who are new in the field, and the potential effects of AI on the industry.
In this engaging continuation of the couple's Q&A series, Sam and Rachel explore the nuances of their relationship dynamics, focusing on their dating experiences. They share insights on meeting, the unique challenges of dating someone with a vision impairment, and the profound notion that love transcends sight.
Google's new developer registration requirements could restrict the ability to sideload apps on Android, adversely affecting accessibility tools that many users rely on. As a result, independent developers and smaller projects could struggle to comply, leading to a significant reduction in available assistive technologies.
All 133 recordings from the 2025 ACB Conference and Convention are now available as podcasts, organized into 12 feeds by topic with dedicated websites offering show notes and download links for each episode.
The newly released Live Read app offers an accessible and simplified reading solution for individuals in the blind and visually impaired community. Developed by an assistive technology expert, this free iOS application presents a streamlined alternative to Seeing AI's quick read feature, enhancing reading opportunities for those with vision loss.
Amazon has launched a new line of Echo speakers featuring Alexa Plus integration and improved audio quality. This lineup includes the Echo Dot Max, Echo Studio, Echo Show 8, and Echo Show 11, each equipped with enhanced functionality and advanced technology for better user interaction.
Amazon unveiled a comprehensive range of new products during its late September event, including advanced home security cameras, upgraded Fire TVs, and innovative Echo devices featuring the AI assistant Alexa Plus. These products are aimed at enhancing user experience and security, with preorders opening immediately for most items ahead of Prime Day.
This page provides a lookup tool that helps users assess HTML support for various screen readers and browsers. It offers individual support tables for JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack while linking to test files used in screen reader testing.
Cornell researchers have developed a high-resolution electronic tactile display combining soft robotics and microscale combustion to create more durable and reliable braille systems. This innovation enhances usability in various environments while shifting away from complex electromechanical components, allowing for multi-line braille displays that can significantly improve literacy for the visually impaired.
A new KeySoft update for the BrailleNote Touch Plus allows users to create and edit math content directly in KeyWord, enhancing workflow efficiency. The update also introduces KeyRecorder, an app that simplifies audio recording and playback, enabling users to capture thoughts and lectures effortlessly.
Windows 11, version 25H2, the latest update, optimizes delivery through a streamlined enablement package that focuses on security and performance. It introduces improvements such as AI-assisted secure coding and removal of legacy features, making it easier for users and admins to manage their systems efficiently.
Disability:IN highlights digital accessibility advancements, including Microsoft's improved color standards, Apple's iOS 26 updates, Meta's AI glasses, P&G's support for D/deaf employees, and new ASL services at OAK Airport, reflecting a growing industry-wide push for inclusive design and compliance with global accessibility standards.
The Carroll Center for the Blind is offering a wide range of training programs this fall, including a workplace computing course with free Meta smart glasses, free JAWS and Microsoft Office webinars, a digital accessibility tester program, and in-person tech fair featuring cutting-edge assistive tools and expert presentations.
Monarch's terminal mode app integrates screen readers with multi-line braille displays, enhancing user experience with features like wrapped mode and cropped mode for interactive data exploration. With innovations such as split display and touch capabilities, this update significantly improves navigation and personalization options for users.
Debra Erickson and Chris Cooke of The Blind Kitchen guide viewers in preparing a traditional English breakfast while sharing their experiences of cooking with vision loss. This engaging episode features practical tools, adaptive strategies, and the importance of confidence in the kitchen, aiming to inspire blind and low-vision cooks to embrace their culinary journeys.
Esri has published a new book titled Tactile Mapping, which focuses on how tactile maps can improve accessibility for individuals who are visually impaired. This publication compiles expert insights, design best practices, and user experiences to enhance understanding and implementation of tactile cartography.
SELVAS BLV has released firmware version 3.0 for the BrailleSense 6 and 6 mini, introducing a redesigned menu structure, enhanced Word Processor features, a new Web Browser, and improved app functionality, along with essential update instructions and precautions for users upgrading from earlier versions.
In this episode of Unscripted, Jeff Thompson and Sree Roy dive into the everyday mix of tech talk and personal takes, all in the natural flow of conversation. Sree kicks things off with a trip to the Apple Store, exploring iPhone crossbody straps and even the Beats lanyard trend. The two reflect on the surprise availability of the iPhone 17, thin as air, in stock, and shipping in just two hours. They weigh the pros and cons of the standard model versus the Pro and Max, noting the absence of LiDAR on the base edition. Conversation shifts to tools of their trade: Jeff shares how microphones and room acoustics shape his podcasting workflow, from condenser mics to dynamic setups, and why his SSL 2+ interface is his go-to. Sree brings in his Blue Sparks condenser mic and Zoom PodTrak P4, plus a shout-out to iBugToday.org for its rich assistive tech resources.
The U.S. Space & Rocket Center is hosting an annual camp designed for visually impaired students, offering them hands-on astronaut training and STEM education. Participants engage in mission simulations and use specialized equipment to fully participate in space-related activities.
In this engaging discussion, Sam and Rachel delve into the intricacies of dating while navigating the challenges of vision impairment. They share personal insights on their relationship journey, the hurdles they've overcome, and the heartfelt belief that love truly knows no boundaries.
This article provides an insightful explanation of frequency and wavelength using analogies that relate to music and braille for blind ham radio enthusiasts. It delves into the relationship between string lengths and frequency, the concept of electromagnetic waves, and the significance of understanding radio wave characteristics in practical ham radio applications.
Join Steven Scott, Shaun Preece, and guest Michael Babcock as they explore the impressive features of the iPhone 17 Pro Max and Meta's innovative Ray-Ban smart glasses. With insights on customization options, battery life, and vital accessibility features, this engaging discussion highlights how these technologies can enhance the experience for blind users.
Research indicates that eye drops containing active ingredients like pilocarpine may effectively improve near vision for people suffering from presbyopia, a common age-related vision condition. Trials have demonstrated significant improvements in visual acuity among patients, providing a potential alternative to reading glasses.
Here Aaron Di Blasi introduces ConnectAlt as the BLV community's one-stop, accessible hub for discovering events, programs, and resources, framing it as the practical answer to the weekly "Where do I find what's next?" question. He explains how ConnectAlt centralizes fragmented information into a searchable calendar with filters by keyword, date, organization, and location (including virtual), and why that matters now. The article spotlights the team, creator/co-founder Lucie Courtois (who is blind), with co-founders Carol Trapani and Ella Deshautreaux, clarifying how lived experience, community leadership, and day-to-day operational rigor combine to make a national aggregation effort credible. He discloses that ConnectAlt has joined Top Tech Tidbits as a Sponsor while affirming Tidbits' not-for-profit, editorial independence and noting ConnectAlt's sustainability exploration (sponsorships, org-side analytics/featured placements, grants, and potential API access) with core access remaining free.
At Blazie Technologies, we like to call BT Speak a pocket computer. It's small, but every bit as powerful as the computers you already know. One of the things BT Speak does especially well is giving you efficient access to the Web. Even better, you're not limited to just one browser, as you get two right out of the box: Firefox and Chromium.
This podcast episode features Jason Rude from Simeon, discussing Auracast technology, a new low-energy audio transmission standard for hearing aids. Auracast simplifies audio delivery for individuals with diverse hearing needs, improving accessibility in various environments such as classrooms and public venues.
The Be My Eyes Customer Accessibility Suite combines visual AI, real-time video support, and intuitive service routing to empower customer service teams in serving blind and low-vision consumers effectively. These tools address significant gaps in traditional customer service, ultimately enhancing user satisfaction and unlocking business value.
This article provides a comprehensive approach to designing accessible flip cards, addressing common pitfalls in accessibility within this interactive element. It details necessary HTML structure and CSS styling, while explaining JavaScript techniques to manage focus and screen reader announcements effectively.
Sticky navigation is a popular design technique that, while aimed at enhancing accessibility, often creates significant barriers for individuals with disabilities. Issues such as reduced screen space, disruptions of keyboard navigation, and increased cognitive load highlight the need for careful implementation to ensure it serves all users effectively.
Amazon's new DRM for Kindle books blocks users from removing encryption and backing up purchased books. The update includes an account secret that can only be accessed through complicated jailbreak methods, making it increasingly difficult for users to manage their e-books independently.
Blind Ambition has launched a recruitment website aimed at addressing unemployment among blind and partially sighted individuals. The initiative was unveiled during the Visionary Conference and received positive feedback from charity leaders and employers, emphasizing the need for greater accessibility to meaningful employment opportunities.
Version 2.5.6 of the BARD Mobile app for Fire OS has been released, featuring significant enhancements such as improved integration with the BARD login system, updates to BARD Alerts, and a series of bug fixes. Notable changes include a more user-friendly experience, automated updates, and refined voice navigation for better accessibility.
The post explores the insertion caret's evolution in web design, detailing new CSS features that allow customization of its appearance and animation. It highlights accessibility concerns surrounding caret changes and user preferences, emphasizing best practices for web authors to consider when implementing custom carets.
This article outlines two workflows for captioning videos in Vimeo, emphasizing the ease of the process. It compares using Vimeo's AI-generated captions with a more precise method using Descript for enhanced accuracy in complex videos.
The article explores the complexity of managing focus ring visibility in web design, especially with varying themes and modes. It introduces a double focus ring approach to ensure accessibility across different user settings and emphasizes using modern CSS capabilities for dynamic color handling.
Rachele DiTullio evaluates the accessibility of the new Home screen feature in the YNAB (You Need A Budget) iOS mobile app. Despite some improvements, significant critical issues remain for assistive technology users, particularly concerning the functionality of context menus.
This article highlights the importance of accessibility in college application forms, particularly for blind students who use screen readers. It details the effective features of an accessible application form and common pitfalls that hinder usability.
The Open Library team discusses their efforts to maintain and improve the performance of their search engine amidst challenges such as a DDoS attack and heavy loads. They highlight strategies such as tuning Solr parameters, optimizing query handling, and improving monitoring to enhance user experience and search result relevance.
Featured Events 📅️
9:00 AM PT, 10:00 AM MT, 11:00 AM CT, 12:00 PM ET, 4:00 PM GMT
In this hands-on webinar, participants will explore how ChatGPT can enhance efficiency with JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion by drafting emails, summarizing documents, tailoring content, and organizing data. Ideal for those new to AI, the session explains how ChatGPT works, outlines its versions, and demonstrates how to integrate it into daily workflows.
Ready for a Transformative Journey into Digital Accessibility? Embark on a transformational journey by participating in the 2025 M-Enabling Summit, where we will delve into "Digital Accessibility Innovation — A Deep Dive into Next-Generation User Experiences" from the perspective of the latest tech trends for organizational inclusion. Gain insights and network discussions with business executives, disability advocates, developers, and policy experts across various sectors, including private, public, nonprofit, and education. A key feature of the Summit is the Accessibility Professionals Forum, which will focus on accessibility within organizations at the intersection of physical and digital environments. Unable to make it to Washington, D.C.? No worries! You can still be part of the Summit by joining us online. Access a curated selection of streamed sessions, interact with leading industry experts through our app, or catch up with post-event recordings.
10 AM PT, 11 AM MT, 12 PM CT, 1 PM ET, 5 PM GMT
Techniques for navigating PowerPoint with JAWS, including editing text within slides and constructing presentations. Designed for both new and experienced JAWS users.
10:00 AM PT, 11:00 AM MT, 12:00 PM CT, 1:00 PM ET, 5:00 PM GMT
TUG welcomes Elizabeth Whitaker from Freedom Scientific to detail the latest changes in JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion.
9:00 AM PT, 10:00 AM MT, 11:00 AM CT, 12:00 PM ET, 4:00 PM GMT
In this two-day, expert-led online program from WebAIM, participants will learn essential and advanced web accessibility practices to ensure compliance with international guidelines and legal requirements. Designed for developers, designers, and accessibility professionals, the training covers WCAG principles, assistive technology use, inclusive design for various disabilities, evaluation techniques, and offers a complimentary document accessibility course.
10 AM PT, 11 AM MT, 12 PM CT, 1 PM ET, 5 PM GMT
Learn the basics of structuring PowerPoint for accessibility, adding alternate text (especially for complex images like flowcharts), and best practices for screen reader compatibility.
4:00 PM PT, 5:00 PM MT, 6:00 PM CT, 7:00 PM ET, 11:00 PM GMT
In this monthly career webinar from The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc., job seekers who are blind, low vision, DeafBlind, or blind with other disabilities will explore how platforms like EdX and Udemy can help close skill gaps and earn certifications across industries. Topics include writing, communication, interpersonal development, artificial intelligence, marketing, and project management.
9:00 AM PT, 10:00 AM MT, 11:00 AM CT, 12:00 PM ET, 4:00 PM GMT
In this exclusive webinar, Vispero and HumanWare showcase how Monarch and JAWS together unlock new possibilities for multiline and split braille, enhancing education, productivity, and independence. The session highlights intuitive navigation with multiline cursor routing and the seamless integration between JAWS and Monarch for braille users at every level.
10 AM PT, 11 AM MT, 12 PM CT, 1 PM ET, 5 PM GMT
Explore JAWS help tools such as Keyboard Help, Screen Sensitive Help, and other resources for beginners. Interactive session with Q&A.
10 AM PT, 11 AM MT, 12 PM CT, 1 PM ET, 5 PM GMT
Focused on desktop screen reader testing using JAWS and NVDA with Chrome on Windows 11. Covers navigation, form labeling, error handling, and accessibility barriers. Mapped to WCAG 2.2 Level AA.
10 AM PT, 11 AM MT, 12 PM CT, 1 PM ET, 5 PM GMT
Explore updates and new features in the 2026 versions of JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion.
10 AM PT, 11 AM MT, 12 PM CT, 1 PM ET, 5 PM GMT
Covers mobile testing challenges, including use of VoiceOver (iOS) and TalkBack (Android). Learn gestures, navigation, testing touch targets, and reflow issues.
Led by Paralympian and accessibility trailblazer Mike May, the Blind Travel Summit at the Texas School for the Blind in Austin features interactive, solutions-focused sessions designed to foster real connection among blind travelers, tech users, and advocates. Each session combines concise presentations with facilitated discussions to co-create better travel solutions.
Doppler Labs offers audiologist-grade hearing aids and a patented at-home fitting platform designed to deliver fast, accessible hearing care at scale. The Netcapital raise aims to fund expansion, production, and a nonprofit arm targeting underserved regions, with clinical trials completed and pricing locked in for sustainable impact and global reach.
12:00 AM PT, 1:00 AM MT, 2:00 AM CT, 3:00 AM ET, 8:00 AM GMT
The International Neurology Conference 2025 is a flagship hybrid event hosted by PubScholars Group on November 15-16, 2025, at the Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando (5800 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL) and streamed online.
The conference explores "Mind-Brain Connection: Understanding Neuroscience through Mental Health," aiming to integrate cutting-edge science with clinical relevance. Who Should Attend: Neurologists, neurosurgeons, neuroscientists, psychologists, rehabilitation professionals, engineers, industry leaders, students, and allied health practitioners. Important Dates & times: Abstract Submission Deadline: September 15, 2025. Registration Deadline: September 30, 2025. Event Timing: November 15, 2025 (8 AM start) - November 16, 2025 (6 PM close). Format: Hybrid Event (In-person & Virtual.) Contact Person: Richard A. Email: info@pubscholars.org 📧️. Phone: +91 7042134266 📱️. Venue: Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando, 5800 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, USA.
10 AM PT, 11 AM MT, 12 PM CT, 1 PM ET, 5 PM GMT
Presentation on OCR technology for the visually impaired. Open to all participants; TVIs can earn ACVREP continuing education credit.
Sight Tech Global returns for its sixth year as a free, virtual conference spotlighting how AI and emerging technologies are reshaping assistive tech and accessibility worldwide. Featuring expert panels, demos, and discussions with leaders from Google, Meta, and Microsoft, the conference explores innovations that empower independence and drive digital equity.
3:00 PM PT, 4:00 PM MT, 5:00 PM CT, 6:00 PM ET, 11:00 PM GMT
In this in-person showcase hosted by Helen Keller Services, assistive technology vendors, innovators, and users come together for a day of interactive demonstrations, in-depth discussions, and community connection focused on advancing access and independence for the blind, DeafBlind, and low vision communities.
Directories 📝️
Surveys 📝️
APH invites users of its braille products to participate in the 2025 GPRA Satisfaction Survey, aimed at gathering feedback to enhance product development and meet federal performance standards. Responses are confidential, and the deadline to complete the survey is Friday, October 10.
We are a wearable technology company, working in partnership with a design consultancy to develop a new product for the visually impaired. As part of our research, we are reaching out to individuals who may be interested in sharing their experiences and needs, helping us design a product that truly supports daily life. We would like to invite participants who meet the following criteria to take part in a relaxed 1.5-hour conversation. Each session'll be compensated at USD 100 per participant: Elderlies aged 65+ with dry AMD conditions. Children aged 3-18 with no usable residual vision (parents'll be the primary interviewees). To protect privacy, detailed participant criteria will be shared only via email. If you are interested, please leave your email address, and we will provide the information directly. All details will remain strictly confidential and used exclusively for research purposes. We look forward to hearing from you and hope to collaborate on this meaningful project.
Buy, Sell or Trade 📝️
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 🎯️
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.
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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 📱️
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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.
We are very excited to announce the much-anticipated version 3.0 update for the BrailleSense 6 and BrailleSense 6 mini is now live! This major update delivers a redesigned Main Menu and Settings dialog, an enhanced Word Processor, a new Braille Practice app for teaching and learning Braille, the highly anticipated new Web Browser, and more.
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.
Organizations with large digital libraries, such as universities, government agencies, publishers, museums, and corporations, are under increasing pressure to provide accessible versions of their content to meet global disability and inclusion laws. But full-scale remediation of millions of documents is rarely practical or budget-friendly.
The Accessible Archive offers a scalable, just-in-time approach to document accessibility. Instead of converting every document in advance, this system makes archived content instantly available in accessible formats only when requested. The result is lower costs, faster deployment, and compliant, user-friendly output across a range of needs, including for blind, low-vision, and other print-impaired users. The Accessible Archive is designed to handle the scale and complexity of institutional digital libraries without requiring full pre-processing or re-engineering.
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.
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 📱️.
Stay connected with Connect Alt, the free, one-stop accessible calendar created by and for the Blind & Low Vision (BLV) community. Find events, programs, and opportunities all in one place — always easy to access and free to use.
Subscribe today and start exploring what's happening in the BLV community!
Sponsor Since: September 25, 2025 📅️
Website: https://connectalt.com/ 🌐️
About: ConnectAlt is a free, accessible hub that centralizes events, programs, and resources for the blind and low-vision (BLV) community. Built by creator/co-founder Lucie Courtois (who is blind) with Carol Trapani and Ella Deshautreaux, ConnectAlt solves the discovery problem by making it easy to find what's happening by date, topic, organization, and location including virtual offerings. The team is active across BLV networks and national convenings (e.g., exhibitor at NFB 2025) and partners with nonprofits, service providers, and assistive-tech leaders to help people quickly connect with opportunities that improve daily life, education, mobility, and employment.
Sponsoring ConnectAlt aligns your brand with tangible access and inclusion while reaching an engaged audience of BLV individuals and families, educators, VR counselors, nonprofits, employers, and assistive-tech users. Packages can include high-visibility placement alongside relevant listings and resources, partner spotlights, community giveaways, and event activations around key gatherings such as the Blind Travel Summit (Austin, Nov 13-14, 2025) — all while keeping the core platform free to users. Let's tailor a sponsorship that advances your goals and measurably expands access for the BLV community.
Social: Follow us on Instagram.
Sponsor Since: March 15, 2025 📅️
Website: https://doubletaponair.com/ 🌐️
About: Founded in 2017 as “Double Tap Canada” on AMI-audio, Double Tap has grown into a weekday podcast, radio show and YouTube series whose tagline proudly declares it "The Podcast Where Blind People Talk Tech." Its Glasgow-based creator Steven Scott, Manchester-based producer-co-host Shaun Preece and Canadian executive producer Marc Aflalo now helm more than 600 episodes that drop every weekday at noon ET, alongside written articles and video clips on DoubleTapOnAir.com.
Each episode blends mainstream gadget news with deep dives into assistive tools, all filtered through the lived experience of blind hosts. Listener emails, voicemails and WhatsApp messages are woven into the conversation, while spin-offs such as Shaun of the Shed (beginner tutorials) and past TV projects like Access Tech Live extend the brand across platforms in partnership with Accessible Media Inc. The result is a vibrant, multi-platform ecosystem that reaches audiences via AMI-audio, every major podcast app, YouTube and even specialist players like the Victor Reader Stream.
The community's enthusiasm shows: Double Tap recently surpassed one million cumulative downloads and, in March 2025 alone, attracted nearly 27K listeners generating 38K downloads; Apple Podcasts users rate it around 4.8 / 5. Authentic insights, daily consistency and professional production continue to position Double Tap as an essential, trusted voice at the intersection of mainstream tech and accessibility.
Newsletter (Double Tap Digest) | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok | X (Formerly Twitter) | YouTube
Sponsor Since: February 28, 2025 📅️
Website: https://awarewolfgear.com/ 🌐️
About: Awarewolf Gear is built on innovation, resilience, and a passion for adventure — especially for those in the blind and low vision community.
Awarewolf Gear is dedicated to redefining mobility through high-performance, thoughtfully engineered canes.
With the core belief that everyone deserves to explore confidently, our mission is encapsulated in our tagline, "Power for Life's Adventure."
Our product line, community initiatives, and inspirational storytelling all work in tandem to empower users to navigate diverse terrains with ease and independence.
Product Line
⚫️ All Terrain Cane (ATC)
Design & Purpose: The All Terrain Cane was originally engineered for the rugged trails of Sedona, Arizona. Made from durable titanium alloy, it is built to handle everything from sandy beaches to rocky mountain paths. Its adjustable 16-inch handle and high-performance roller ball tip provide stability and versatility across varied surfaces.
⚫️ Urban Xplorer Cane (UX)
Innovation & Versatility: Merging the rugged design of the ATC with enhancements for urban mobility, the Urban Xplorer Cane features an adjustable handle and a specially designed "Dome" cane tip. Available in multiple sizes (small, medium, large and extra-large), this lightweight, robust cane is ideal for navigating busy city streets as well as more challenging environments.
⚫️ Cane Tips
Customization & Performance: Awarewolf Gear's Cane Tips are designed to elevate your mobility experience by ensuring smooth, reliable navigation across all terrains. Crafted for both durability and style, these premium replacement tips allow users to personalize their canes while enhancing performance.
⚫️ Accessories and Apparel
Customization & Expression: Beyond canes, Awarewolf Gear offers a range of accessories — such as colorful replacement cane tips designed for visibility and personal expression — and apparel that carry the brand's adventurous spirit.
Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube
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
Greetings, ghouls, goblins, and ghosts with the most! We're headed into spooky season, which means Elegant Insights has a truly terrifying collection of jewelry and accessories perfect for fright night. Dress up your white cane for Halloween with our choice of either a creepy copper bat braille-embossed with "boo!" or an orange and green enamel pumpkin jingle bell in our Charmed by the Holidays Halloween Mobility Cane Charm. Decorate your handbag, tote, or trick or treat bag with one of our Halloween theme Charmed by the Holidays purse charms. Halloween's Most Haunted earrings are a frightfully fun way to dress up for Halloween without committing to a costume! If you've got it, haunt it! Shop with Elegant Insights for all your fab fall fashion, gifts, and accessories. Check out our showstopping Falling In Leaf collection if you love all things autumn, or give us a call if you have a custom design in mind. Call +1 (702) 605-1265 or shop online at https://elegantinsightsjewelry.com.
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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.
Home | About Elegant Insights | Ordering, Shipping and FAQs | My Account | Checkout | Cart | Shop The Boutique | Wish List | Testimonials | Subscribe
Sponsor Since: October 13, 2024 📅️
Website: https://floridareading.com/ 🌐️
About: Florida Vision Technology is officially celebrating its 20th anniversary. When I started in February 2000, the assistive technology industry was young, and there were just a handful of manufacturers.
Opening the business felt right, and I was ready to jump in. The biggest challenge, in the beginning, was getting a used bulky desk into the shed in my backyard, which my daughters named "Lesa Berg Kretschmer World Headquarters."
Three years later, in June of 2003, we moved into our first offsite location and opened a low vision superstore!
Home | Shop | Blogs | About Us | Contact Us
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.
A Perspective from World-Renowned Advocate Donna J. Jodhan - How Some Canadian Government Departments Are Using Work Arounds
Sponsor Since: September 20, 2024 📅️
Website: https://accesspark.shop 🌐️
About: Access Park is your premier destination for accessible shopping.
At Access Park, we offer a curated selection of products aimed at enhancing the daily lives of persons with disabilities.
Whether you're looking for accessible tech gadgets, specialty assistive devices, or just everyday essentials, you'll find them here.
Access Park provides a shopping experience that prioritizes keyboard navigability, screen reader compatibility, and high-contrast visuals for those with visual impairments, in addition to other enhancements that provide an elevated shopping experience to users of various assistive technologies.
Access Park. Where inclusivity is always in stock. (TM)
Are you ready to advance your career in cybersecurity? The Apex Program offers a comprehensive 12-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, and quizzes, with expert instructor support every step of the way.
Get started today — Classes start on the first Monday of every month!
Don't miss this opportunity to join a diverse and inclusive workforce in the cybersecurity sector. Visit https://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
Call 1-855-SHOP-GPT (1-855-746-7478)
Shopping online can be hard if you're blind, visually impaired, or not tech-savvy. That's why Innosearch AI created Shop by Phone — a 100% free, voice-only service.
Just call and say what you need:
👉 “Find me a phone charger.”
👉 “Add it to my cart.”
👉 “Check out.”
No apps, no websites — just easy, hands-free shopping from over 500,000 stores.
- âś” Free to use
- âś” Works anywhere, anytime
- âś” Perfect for seniors, blind, and low-vision users
Available in:
Call now and shop with ease!
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!
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: 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.
Purchase: Sponsorship Package 💸️ (Packages currently available.)
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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 42,000 blind, low vision, deaf, hard of hearing, deafblind, neurodivergent and/or disabled professionals, educators and enthusiasts, all over the world, each week. Subscribe here. Review the most recent issues here.
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Top Tech Tidbits News Team 🗞️
Distribution Since: 2004
As of June 4, 2020 the distribution of Top Tech Tidbits is made possible by our Sponsors, our Supporters, our Advertisers and Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd., a leading international provider of professionally outsourced marketing administration and consultation services.
Any time the Top Tech Tidbits Publication carries less than its Sponsor limit, Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. donates the remaining dollars necessary to keep the publication running.
Please help us to support the ongoing distribution of this publication. Learn more about the benefits of Sponsorship today.
Publisher Since: June 4, 2020
Location: Cleveland, 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 🌐
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The Week's News in Artificial Intelligence
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The Week's News in Access Technology
Sr. Project Management Professional (2006 - Present)
Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. 🌐
Innovative ideas. Solutions that perform.
Certified:
Digital Marketing Associate
Meta Certified (2022 - Present)
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Digital Strategy and Content Marketing
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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.
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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Founded in 2004, Top Tech Tidbits is the world's leading not-for-profit access technology publication that reaches over 42,000 blind, low vision, deaf, hard of hearing, deafblind, neurodivergent and/or disabled professionals, educators and enthusiasts, all over the world, each week. Subscribe here. Review the most recent issues here. Access Technology broadly encompasses technologies that enable access to information and communication systems for persons with disabilities. Adaptive Technology is a subset of Access Technology designed to assist individuals in performing tasks that might otherwise be challenging due to their particular disabilities. Assistive Technology includes any device, software, or equipment that helps people work around their challenges. Top Tech Tidbits is a Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication. Publisher: Aaron Di Blasi. Editors: John Hanlin, Jenna Lang, Stephen (Alex) Marositz, Ben Moxey, David Woodbridge and Vicki Walton. Top Tech Tidbits is a sponsor, reader and advertiser supported publication.
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