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Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, November 6, 2025 - Volume 1040
♿️ 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: 42,534 🔢️ opt-in subscribers were sent this issue via email.
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Access Awareness: Updates That Matter ♿️
Vispero has announced an extension of its upgrade deadlines for JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion software, now set for December 31, 2025. Users currently on versions 2022, 2023, or 2024 will have until March 31, 2026, providing additional time to adapt and take advantage of new AI-driven features and functionalities.
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News 📰️
1.) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week 📊️
Vispero has launched Fusion Suite 2026, which boasts AI-driven features, enhanced Braille support, and improved user connectivity to better serve those with vision impairments. The software offers smarter navigation tools and a new user registration system aimed at personalizing the user experience and adapting to individual workflows.
Aira's visual interpreting service and Gmail's web accessibility tools empower blind and visually impaired individuals to navigate shopping experiences independently. Experts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece offer practical tips for using screen readers, while Aira's partnership with Walmart is highlighted through real-time navigation experiences, addressing privacy and trust in technology.
JAWS, ZoomText and Fusion users can now benefit from AI powered tools like PictureSmart AI and FS Companion that provide image descriptions, label buttons, and help users with commands. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Elizabeth Whitaker from Vispero about the resources and training programs they offer for learning and using these and other tools.
The MX Master Series mouse from Logitech combines excellent design, comfort, and outstanding performance, making it a favorite among users. Its customizable buttons and keyboard shortcuts enhance productivity, catering to those in need of a high-performance mouse with versatile features.
A qualitative study reveals that blind and low-vision users extensively utilize password managers to handle their credentials, often relying on integrated tools within browsers or devices. Effective management hinges on the collaboration between password managers, screen readers, and websites, with accessibility gaps noting the need for better integration and design.
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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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7.) Apple Updates 🍎️
Skip this Tidbit to skip all updates on Apple.
Forza Football has set a new standard in app accessibility by effectively supporting VoiceOver for blind and low-vision users, particularly in navigating complex lineups. The article explains how the app's design allows users to understand team lineups without visual aid, showcasing innovative techniques in iOS development for enhancing user experience.
Scott Davert evaluates the new Braille Access features in iOS 26.1, which integrate notetaker functionalities for braille display users in iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and visionOS. Key improvements include braille note-taking, BRF file access, a math calculator, and enhanced Live Captions, all aimed at increasing independence and efficiency for users.
Apple has released updates for macOS, watchOS, tvOS, and HomePod Software, addressing various accessibility improvements and bug fixes. Notable changes include a new tinted option for Liquid Glass in macOS Tahoe 26.1 and several resolved accessibility bugs for VoiceOver users.
EchoBox Player is a new audio player for iOS designed by Oriol GĂłmez, a blind developer. It offers a fully accessible experience with a simple layout, supports multiple audio formats, and features such as playlists and local audio transcription, making it a noteworthy tool for blind and low vision users.
EchoBox Player is a new audio player for iOS designed by Oriol GĂłmez, a blind developer. It offers a fully accessible experience with a simple layout, supports multiple audio formats, and features such as playlists and local audio transcription, making it a noteworthy tool for blind and low vision users.
8.) AI Updates 🤖️
Skip this Tidbit to skip all updates on AI.
The November firmware update enhances video recording features for both Meta Ray-Bans and Oakley smart glasses, including improved video stabilization and longer recording times. Key updates allow for 1080p recording at 60fps and better integration with Garmin health stats, which were previously limited to Oakley's models.
Publisher (Di Blasi): If this article resonates with you, I encourage you to check out a video that I did with Dr. Kirk Adams back in June demonstrating AVM, and its potential usefulness to BLV persons specifically.
CNet: ChatGPT's Voice Mode allows for a natural conversational experience, enabling hands-free interaction with the AI. The feature adapts to speech nuances and enhances multitasking, making it ideal for learning new languages, brainstorming ideas, and even summarizing documents aloud.
This article explores the need for teaching LLMs about accessibility, emphasizing the importance of shifting accessibility efforts left in the development process. It argues for investing in organizational learning and properly valuing accessibility professionals to improve overall web accessibility.
D.) Atlas Ableism | HTML5Accessibility.com | October 23, 2025
This article critiques the accessibility issues of the new ChatGPT Atlas browser, highlighting significant concerns including lack of useful alternative text for images and low contrast text. It argues that the browser does not conform to established accessibility standards, suggesting that it represents a barrier to users with disabilities.
This article explores the need for teaching LLMs about accessibility, emphasizing the importance of shifting accessibility efforts left in the development process. It argues for investing in organizational learning and properly valuing accessibility professionals to improve overall web accessibility.
F.) Atlas Ableism | HTML5Accessibility.com | October 23, 2025
This article critiques the accessibility issues of the new ChatGPT Atlas browser, highlighting significant concerns including lack of useful alternative text for images and low contrast text. It argues that the browser does not conform to established accessibility standards, suggesting that it represents a barrier to users with disabilities.
Tips, Tutorials, Guides, Reviews, Walk-Throughs and How-To's 📚️
Email signatures are often displayed at the end of email messages to provide contact information, boost brand awareness, or offer important information. A signature can consist of text, graphics, or both.
JAWS 2025 is put to the test, comparing its performance on an untagged scanned PDF against a version processed through DocAccess, a tool designed to enhance digital accessibility. The demonstration highlights the advantages of using DocAccess for institutions managing extensive scanned document collections.
Google Docs introduces the ability to export documents as tagged PDFs, enhancing accessibility for users. This update is essential for creating accessible content and provides a competitive comparison to design tools like Venngage, which prioritizes accessibility in visual content creation.
Step into the world of JAWS 2026 by registering and signing into your new Vispero account with ease. This comprehensive guide details the steps for both new users and those with existing accounts, ensuring that you can swiftly activate your software and access all features seamlessly.
News, Trends, Updates and Opinion Editorials 📰️
In an enlightening conversation, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece delve into advancements in assistive technology, including the WeWalk Smart Cane 2 and the new We Assist service. Joined by Jean-Marc Feghali, they discuss how real-time visual assistance is reshaping accessibility for blind users, enhancing navigation and object recognition, and share their experiences with the latest Apple products and smart home devices.
Exploring the advanced features and ergonomic design of the MX Master Series mouse from Logitech, this presentation highlights its customizable buttons and productivity-enhancing macros. Ideal for those seeking a high-performance, versatile mouse, it offers an unmatched user experience for tasks and workflows.
Participating in sports and exercise programs can be life-changing for people with vision loss. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Tara Rogowski of the Northwest Association for Blind Athletes about inclusive fitness, adaptive sports, and their free virtual and in-person programs geared to the blind. They also discuss the role of community engagement.
Creating accessible content is vital for enabling users of all abilities to engage effectively with digital materials. The article emphasizes the importance of clarity, structure, and inclusive language to enhance content accessibility while also addressing legal standards and business value.
Microsoft is previewing a new feature allowing Windows 11 users to share audio over Bluetooth LE with multiple devices simultaneously. This will enable users to enjoy shared audio experiences with headphones, speakers, and hearing aids that support Bluetooth LE.
Code Factory's reintroduction of Eloquence as a 64-bit text-to-speech voice for Android ignites a discussion among blind tech users regarding its subscription model and associated pricing concerns. Steven Scott and Shaun Preece provide insights on the benefits of the new TalkBack 16.1 features, including Reduced Delay, which enhances overall responsiveness on the Google Pixel 10 Pro.
Discover the innovative functionality of the Ally Solos smart glasses, which are tailored for individuals with visual impairments. The unboxing showcases the setup process on Android, along with insights and initial impressions on their usability and technology integration.
Vispero's extension of the upgrade deadline for JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion licenses offers users crucial extra time to make necessary transitions. Assistive tech expert Matthew Horspool clarifies important aspects of licensing, including the distinctions between home and professional options, cost-effective strategies for updates, and considerations for new users facing vision challenges.
The rise of advanced machine learning has led to a decline in traditional captchas, replaced by more user-friendly and often bizarre security challenges. With companies adopting invisible bot-detection technologies, the future of captchas may hinge on creativity and specific audience engagement, making normal visual challenges a rare occurrence.
Discussing the newest features in JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion Version 2026.
Apple's latest updates, iOS 26.1 and iPadOS 26.1, introduce several enhancements for VoiceOver and braille users, visual interface changes, and expanded language support for Live Translation. The updates also resolve various accessibility bugs while introducing a few new issues for users to monitor.
The Dot Pad X is a revolutionary multi-line Braille display that allows blind and visually impaired users to interact with tactile graphics and Braille text. It features AI-powered image processing, intuitive controls, and connectivity options, making it a versatile tool for reading and creating content. Priced at ÂŁ6,495, this device is a game-changer in accessibility, enhancing learning and leisure for its users.
The FIFINE M9 Wireless Microphone System offers an affordable solution for creators seeking quality audio for their projects. In this review, both the black and white versions are tested for sound quality, battery life, and range, with a focus on accessibility for blind and visually impaired users.
Artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT are transforming how disabled individuals engage with digital content. These tools can simplify tasks that were previously challenging, offering a new level of accessibility for various impairments. However, users should be aware of the limitations and ensure their data privacy while using such AI technologies.
Join Steven Scott and Shaun Preece in a Halloween special filled with frightening tech stories shared by listeners. From haunted gadgets to cursed devices, the duo navigates the chilling narratives that intertwine technology and the supernatural, while celebrating the lighter side of accessibility tech.
PAC 2026 introduces advanced AI tools for PDF accessibility, enhancing the identification of headings, paragraphs, and structural elements. Insights on the new AI and Quality features offer a robust glimpse into how this updated version can facilitate accessibility work.
Steven Scott and Shaun Preece engage with listeners on the complex interplay of AI technology and human relationships, considering concerns about AI companionship as they tackle topics like AI sexting and the influence of social media on interpersonal connections. Insights into the latest in iOS 26 features and practical advice for blind academics add depth to this lively discussion.
Vispero has announced an extension of its upgrade deadlines for JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion software, now set for December 31, 2025. Users currently on versions 2022, 2023, or 2024 will have until March 31, 2026, providing additional time to adapt and take advantage of new AI-driven features and functionalities.
The latest episode introduces the new features in JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion 2026. Listeners are guided on setting up a Vispero account and are informed about upcoming training opportunities. Additionally, a contest from the Chicago Lighthouse is highlighted, offering a chance to realize a business idea.
The latest beta update for the Image Description Toolkit introduces features such as geolocation data extraction from images and the ability to download images for processing. This update is part of ongoing AI-driven enhancements aimed at improving user experience and accessibility.
This roundup evaluates the effectiveness of alternative text in Microsoft Word and PowerPoint, highlighting consistency in adding alt text across content types and critiquing the performance of PDF exports, particularly from Adobe tools. It reveals insights on common pitfalls related to alt text conversion in various image types and offers practical recommendations for optimizing accessibility.
Adobe InDesign 21.0 release includes significant accessibility updates, allowing ebook creators to apply ARIA roles and facilitates the export of context breaks and MathML. These enhancements streamline the EPUB export process, reducing reliance on complex workarounds and improving accessibility features for assistive technologies.
Adobe InDesign 21.0 release includes significant accessibility updates, allowing ebook creators to apply ARIA roles and facilitates the export of context breaks and MathML. These enhancements streamline the EPUB export process, reducing reliance on complex workarounds and improving accessibility features for assistive technologies.
The latest V3 software update for the Brava smart oven offers full mobile control and screen reader support for VoiceOver and TalkBack, enhancing accessibility for blind and low-vision users. This innovation empowers individuals to enjoy independent cooking with confidence and precision through their smartphones.
This article highlights Dr. Angela Young's insights on transforming raw data into accessible, inclusive stories that everyone can understand and act on. It emphasizes the significance of integrating accessibility in data designs from the beginning to enhance clarity, equity, and participation in decision-making.
This article provides essential steps for new BT Speak users after unboxing their device. It highlights the importance of checking your email for the Getting Started guide, utilizing the website for resources, and accessing built-in help features for ease of use.
YouTube has revised its interface, consolidating captions and descriptive audio under the new 'Languages' tab, which affects creators' accessibility workflows. This update includes the introduction of a descriptive audio tool, enabling creators to upload separate tracks that narrate visual content for blind or low-vision audiences.
DOS was the operating system I used on my first computer. We can emulate it reasonably well now, and get a sense of what using it was like with a screen reader. This guide will explain how to go from nothing to a working DOS install that talks.
Featured Events 📅️
9:00 AM PT, 10:00 AM MT, 11:00 AM CT, 12:00 PM ET, 4:00 PM GMT
Join Vispero for this free, one-hour webinar introducing Google's Gemini AI and how it can enhance productivity when used with JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion. Presenters Elizabeth Whitaker and Rachel Buchanan demonstrate how to navigate the Gemini interface, customize prompts, and use Gemini to create summaries and reports while integrating with Google Workspace applications.
11:00 AM PT, 12:00 PM MT, 1:00 PM CT, 2:00 PM ET, 6:00 PM GMT
This free, remote session explores the built-in magnification features on Apple and Android devices, empowering users to enhance readability and accessibility on their smartphones.
7:00 AM PT, 8:00 AM MT, 9:00 AM CT, 10:00 AM ET, 2:00 PM GMT
Accessibility leaders, developers, and governance practitioners examine WordPress accessibility today, how to build governance structures, and explore emerging tools for streamlined accessibility testing.
8:00 AM PT, 9:00 AM MT, 10:00 AM CT, 11:00 AM ET, 3:00 PM GMT
Deque's CTO Dylan Barrell and Forrester's Gina Bhawalkar present findings from the latest Forrester Wave™ report, discussing digital accessibility market trends and future predictions.
12:00 AM PT, 1:00 AM MT, 2:00 AM CT, 3:00 AM ET, 7:00 AM GMT
Co-hosted with BCNL, this session focuses on the European Accessibility Act, Bulgarian accessibility legislation, stakeholder responsibilities, and available resources through AccessibleEU.
It is that time of year when you start asking yourself, “What do I want for the holidays, and what do I want to give to others?” We think we have the answer for you as we present our annual look at Assistive Technology Gifts for the Holidays on Saturday November 8th. Take a look at this year's featured gadgets and gizmos for everyone from toddlers to seniors. Vendors will also be there to showcase the products they think you will enjoy.
9:00 AM PT, 10:00 AM MT, 11:00 AM CT, 12:00 PM ET, 4:00 PM GMT
Let's Go Shopping is an epic, online, accessible, virtual 2-day mall crawl that connects small businesses with the customers who need them. Join us Saturday, November 1st and Saturday, November 8th for 2 all-day events featuring great holiday gift ideas for everyone on your list. Find tech gadgets and daily living aids, fashion and jewelry, bags and accessories, fragrance and beauty, stocking stuffers, hand crafts, home decor, and more. We'll even have a special hour just to celebrate the 10th edition of Let's Go Shopping! To get the event schedule, vendor directory, discount details, and the all-important login information, you can follow this link, or send a blank email to: lgs+subscribe@groups.io 📧️ and you will be added to our announcements list. For more info, contact Laura at +1 (702) 605-1265 📱️. Shop 'til you drop and stress less. Skip the trip and power shop in your pj's! Ready for a little retail therapy? Let's Go Shopping!
11:00 AM PT, 12:00 PM MT, 1:00 PM CT, 2:00 PM ET, 6:00 PM GMT
Discover how to integrate Apple's Siri with ChatGPT in this free remote workshop that shows how to get faster, more accurate responses using voice commands.
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.
9:00 AM PT, 10:00 AM MT, 11:00 AM CT, 12:00 PM ET, 4:00 PM GMT
The Seeing Eye's annual online auction returns November 12-19, offering an exciting selection of holiday-ready items including assistive technology, mobility aids, adaptive kitchen tools, handcrafted leashes, and breed-themed collectibles. Hosted by Seeing Eye graduate Bonnie Mosen, this audio preview gives listeners an early look at the auction lineup and invites everyone to explore and bid at www.seeingeye.org/auction.
12:00 PM PT, 1:00 PM MT, 2:00 PM CT, 3:00 PM ET, 7:00 PM GMT
Compare Apple's VoiceOver and Android's TalkBack screen readers in this one-hour online workshop designed to help users make informed choices about accessible mobile technology.
9:00 AM PT, 10:00 AM MT, 11:00 AM CT, 12:00 PM ET, 4:00 PM GMT
The Seeing Eye's annual online auction returns November 12-19, offering an exciting selection of holiday-ready items including assistive technology, mobility aids, adaptive kitchen tools, handcrafted leashes, and breed-themed collectibles. Hosted by Seeing Eye graduate Bonnie Mosen, this audio preview gives listeners an early look at the auction lineup and invites everyone to explore and bid at www.seeingeye.org/auction.
3:00 AM PT, 4:00 AM MT, 5:00 AM CT, 6:00 AM ET, 10:00 AM GMT
This free, open session of the DAISY Board meeting, hosted by The Braillists Foundation, invites the broader community to hear updates on the eBraille specification, user requirements for DAISY reading apps, artificial intelligence initiatives, and member organization activities.
9:00 AM PT, 10:00 AM MT, 11:00 AM CT, 12:00 PM ET, 4:00 PM GMT
World Usability Day Vienna debuts with a spotlight on how emerging technologies are shaping human experience, featuring two standout projects for 2025.
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.
Developers and tech experts gather at TU Wien to explore web, mobile, cloud, AI, and machine learning trends. Includes a talk on how blind people navigate both online and offline worlds.
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.
12:00 PM PT, 1:00 PM MT, 2:00 PM CT, 3:00 PM ET, 7:00 PM GMT
Representatives from EchoVision, Ally Solo, and Meta Glasses share how smart glasses can enhance daily living for people with vision loss in this informative, remote session.
8:00 AM PT, 9:00 AM MT, 10:00 AM CT, 11:00 AM ET, 4:00 PM GMT
Experts discuss the evolving intersection of AI and accessibility, sharing practical uses of AI for alt text, the influence of agentic AI, and strategies for visibility in AI-driven search.
1:00 AM PT, 2:00 AM MT, 3:00 AM CT, 4:00 AM ET, 9:00 AM GMT
This inclusive full-day conference at Google Brussels features two tracks and welcomes top global speakers to share expertise across technologies, promoting knowledge sharing for all developers.
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 📝️
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 🎯️
Donna is delighted to announce an exciting and land shaping partnership with Innosearch! See how this new partnership is destined to become a mover and shaker! A store front with passion and motivation! Just in time for the holiday season!
Sponsor Since: September 20, 2024 📅️
Website: https://donnajodhan.com/bb/ 🌐️
About: Welcome to Blindly Brilliant, the inclusive pottery studio of advocate and artist Donna J. Jodhan. Formerly on Etsy, the shop is now hosted by Innosearch to deliver a faster, cleaner, and more accessible experience from first click to checkout. Every product page follows accessible patterns for screen reader users, with clear headings, rich alt text, high-contrast visuals, and keyboard-first navigation.
Need a hand while you browse? CoBrowse AI is available to all BLV and PWD customers for real-time, side-by-side assistance. Get help comparing sizes and finishes, hearing image descriptions, or moving through checkout with confidence.
Explore functional kitchenware and decorative pieces that put touch at the center. Each collection reflects Donna's belief that art and resilience go hand in hand, and invites everyone to enjoy beautiful, usable design.
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)
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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:
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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.
Selvas BLV is excited to attend the Getting In Touch With Literacy Conference in Huntsville, Alabama next week, November 5-7th! Come by our booth to see the latest BrailleSense 6 update and how we can be an asset to teachers and students this school year!
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
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
x (Formerly Twitter) | Facebook | Instagram
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
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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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Publisher (2020-Present)
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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:
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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.
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Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. 🌐
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Editor Since: June 4, 2020
Location: Des Moines, Iowa
Time Zone: Central Standard Time (CST/CDT) (GMT-6/GMT-5)
In addition to serving as an Editor to Top Tech Tidbits Jenna also serves as an Editor to the Access Information News and AI-Weekly newsletters and runs her own advocacy foundation.
Jenna also serves as a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) for Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd.
Jenna's son was born blind and she is always seeking new and innovative ways to empower him through technology.
Jenna Lang, PMP
Editor (2024-Present)
AI-Weekly 🌐
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Editor Since: October 7, 2021
Location: Los Angeles, California
Time Zone: Pacific Standard Time (PST/PDT) (GMT-6/GMT-7)
In addition to serving as an Editor to Top Tech Tidbits Alex is also the Accessible Technology Coordinator for California State University, Dominguez Hills. He has worked in accessibility in higher education since 2005, is certified by the International Association of Accessibility Professionals, and in his spare time plays for the San Gabriel Valley Panthers Beep Baseball Team. He can be reached on twitter at: @samarositz.
Stephen (Alex) Marositz
Editor (2021-Present)
Top Tech Tidbits 🌐
The Week's News in Access Technology
Accessible Technology Coordinator
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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