[Electronics-Talk] The Week's News in Adaptive Technology

[Top Tech Tidbits]

Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, August 31, 2023 - Volume 926 Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, August 31, 2023 - Volume 926 The Week's News in Adaptive Technology https://toptechtidbits.com/ A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication https://mvsltd.com/ Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in adaptive technology. Web Version: Read this volume of Top Tech Tidbits online at: https://toptechtidbits.com/tidbits2023/08312023/. Share: Share this volume of Top Tech Tidbits on Facebook: http://bit.ly/sharetidbits926. Spam Filter: You have received this email from Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. because you are subscribed to receive the Top Tech Tidbits email newsletter. To ensure that you continue to receive each issue of Top Tech Tidbits as it is released please be sure to add the following email address to your Address Book, Email Contact List, Trusted Sender's List, and/or Safe Sender's List today: enews at toptechtidbits.com. Subscribers: 10,965 Opt-In Subscribers were sent this issue via email. 184 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email. This Week's Featured Advertisement: 4 Sponsorship Packages Currently Available. Join Industry Leaders And Begin Reaching Over 10,000 Access Technology Professionals, Educators and Enthusiasts, All Over The World, Each Week. All While Supporting The Ongoing Distribution of Top Tech Tidbits For Those Very Same Readers. Only $100 USD Per Month. While Packages Last. This Issue Made Possible By Support From The Following Sponsors: Ongoing Weekly Distribution Made Possible By Support From: A.T. Guys, GuideLights And Gadgets, LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store, HumanWare, Freedom Scientific, Pneuma Solutions, Carroll Center for the Blind, HIMS, Inc., Double Tap TV, Clusiv, Fable, Aira, WayAround, The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc., Sterling Adaptives, LLC, AYES.ai, Echobatix, Glidance, The Accessibility Guy and Wordvoyance. Dear Rolando, Submit a Tidbit for free, with timing and placement determined by our editors, here: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-tidbit. Submit a Sponsored Tidbit, with timing and placement determined by you, here: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-sponsored-tidbit. 1) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week 🎙 Listen to the podcast. A.) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: How To Enable or Disable Protected View in Office Applications | Freedom Scientific Protected View is a read-only mode in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. It is available in MS Office 365 and all versions dating back to 2010. By default, when you open a file from an online location or email attachment, it will open in this view to protect your computer from harmful malware. JAWS will indicate the file was opened in Protected View, but you will not be able to navigate it using your arrow keys. Activating the Enable Editing button will permit you to read and edit the file, but these buttons can be difficult to locate. You can disable Protected View, which allows you to read and edit files as you ordinarily would when opening them: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/185.html B.) An Amazing JAWS Power Tip From Leo Bado: How to Modify Voice Parameters of Eloquence Such as Pitch Fluctuation, Roughness, Head Size and Breathiness | David Goldfield | Tech-VI List Leo Bado posted this tip to the JFW discussion group and in doing so he has done a great service to users of JAWS. There are a few things I should say by way of introduction along with some warnings: https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/4875 C.) The Future Of Artificial Intelligence In Accessibility AI is already playing a massive part in our lives; however, what role does artificial intelligence play in accessibility? Here, Mike Taylor, Senior Accessibility Analyst, Comms and Training Manager from the Digital Accessibility Centre explores: https://www.openaccessgovernment.org/the-future-of-artificial-intelligence-in-accessibility/165188/ D.) List of Technology Guides for Blind Users | National Braille Press Below is a list of current Technology Guides for Blind Users compiled by the National Braille Press: https://www.nbp.org/ic/nbp/publications/technology.html E.) How To Get Siri To Read Articles Out Loud On iOS 17 | Cool Blind Tech On your iPhone, you can now ask Siri to read articles out loud. While speech-to-text has been available for a while, asking Siri to read any open articles is a new iOS 17 feature: https://coolblindtech.com/how-to-get-siri-to-read-articles-out-loud-on-ios-17/ 2) Sponsorship Package Updates Availability: There are 4 Top Tech Tidbits Sponsorship Packages currently available. Join industry leaders and begin reaching over 10,000 access technology professionals, educators and enthusiasts, all over the world, each week. All while supporting the ongoing distribution of Top Tech Tidbits for those very same readers. Only $100 USD Per Month. While Packages Last. Please consider joining us today: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html#purchase 3) Premium Subscriber Updates Next Issue: Premium Subscribers will receive their 6th issue of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits for April, May and June 2023 on Monday, October 2, 2023. Back Issues: There are currently 5 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. 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Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsored-tidbits.html. 5) Follow Top Tech Tidbits On Your Preferred Channel In addition to receiving Top Tech Tidbits via email every Thursday morning at 4:00 AM ET you can also pick up the newsletter and its trending articles on any of the following channels: Email: https://toptechtidbits.com/subscribe Facebook: https://toptechtidbits.com/facebook LinkedIn: https://toptechtidbits.com/linkedin Mastodon: https://toptechtidbits.com/mastodon Podcast: https://toptechtidbits.com/podcast RSS: https://toptechtidbits.com/rss Threads: https://toptechtidbits.com/threads X (Formerly Twitter): https://toptechtidbits.com/x YouTube: https://toptechtidbits.com/youtube 6) AI Updates Skip this Tidbit to skip all updates on AI. A) Sony Explores AI to Make Gaming More Accessible to the Visually Impaired Sony is reportedly working its way to utilize AI in making games more accessible to visually impaired people: https://www.itechpost.com/articles/118725/20230823/sony-explores-ai-make-gaming-more-accessible-visually-impaired.htm B) ElevenLabs' Voice-Generating Tools Launch Out Of Beta | TechCrunch ElevenLabs, the viral AI-powered platform for creating synthetic voices, has launched its platform out of beta with support for more than 30 languages. Using a new AI model developed in-house, ElevenLabs says that its tools are now capable of automatically identifying languages, including Korean, Dutch and Vietnamese, and generating “emotionally rich” speech in those languages. In combination with the new model, ElevenLabs customers can leverage the platform's voice-cloning tool to speak across the almost 30 languages without first having to type text: https://techcrunch.com/2023/08/22/elevenlabs-voice-generating-tools-launch-out-of-beta/ C) Meta Just Released a Coding Version of Llama 2 | Wired: Subscription Required Code Llama may spur a new wave of experimentation around AI and programming — but it will also help Meta: https://www.wired.com/story/meta-code-llama/ 7) JAWS Power Tip: How To Manage Quick Settings and Notifications in Windows 11 with JAWS | Freedom Scientific In Windows 10, the Action Center (Quick Settings) and Notification area were accessed in the same area by pressing WINDOWS KEY+A. In Windows 11, they are split into two menus: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/186.html 8) Learning Logic Pro X: Episode 1 - Creating a New Project | AppleVis In the first episode of a series learning Logic Pro X for Mac, Ming introduces how to create a new project and audio for a Logic Pro X project. He also shows us some useful shortcuts to make the process easier and more efficient. These shortcuts include: https://www.applevis.com/podcasts/learning-logic-pro-x-episode-1-creating-new-project 9) How To Use Per-App Settings On iOS | Cool Blind Tech Per-app settings allow you to enable accessibility settings on an app-by-app basis instead of applying them system-wide. This can be useful if, for example, you need your Messages app to have a bigger text size but not your Settings app. This tip works on iPhones running iOS 16 or newer and iPads running iPadOS 16 or newer: https://coolblindtech.com/how-to-use-per-app-settings-on-ios/ 10) Voice Access Comes To Windows 11 Oobe In Recent Insider Builds Microsoft has released a feature that allows users to control their computers entirely using their voice, even before they've logged in. This could greatly improve the overall user experience and make computing more inclusive for a wider range of users: https://www.onmsft.com/news/voice-access-comes-to-windows-11-oobe-in-recent-insider-builds/ 11) NVDA 2023.2rc1 Available For Testing https://www.nvaccess.org/post/nvda-2023-2rc1/ 12) Bringing Braille Fun Home: LEGO ® Braille Bricks on Sale for the First Time Following an overwhelming response from around the world, LEGO ® Braille Bricks are now available to purchase online at LEGO.com. Until now, LEGO Braille Bricks have only been distributed free of charge by the LEGO Foundation to organizations specializing in the education of children with vision impairment. Since the launch of these educational kits in 2020, feedback from parents, carers, grandparents, children, and educators has continually highlighted the positive impact the bricks have and how they transform the way children with vision impairment can learn braille. This overwhelming response has led to the creation of LEGO Braille Bricks - Play with Braille to give families the opportunity to enjoy the benefits and practice their tactile skills at home. The launch marks a significant milestone in the development of more inclusive learning through play experiences. With both braille and printed letters, numbers and symbols on each brick, and games designed for all ages, the new 'LEGO Braille Bricks — Play with Braille' set makes learning braille more fun and accessible to everyone. Available in English and French from 1st September 2023 with pre-order starting 24th August and additional languages to follow next year: https://www.lego.com/en-us/aboutus/news/2023/august/lego-braille-bricks-play-with-braille- 13) WebEx and Accessibility | Cindee Calton | Accessibility.com People significantly increased their use of web conferencing software, like WebEx, in 2020. People who had never or rarely participated in online meetings or webinars suddenly found themselves in them frequently. The change positively and negatively affected everyone, including people with disabilities. For people with disabilities that make it harder to leave their homes, using software like WebEx made participation in the workforce, education and public meetings easier. For people with sensory disabilities, using web conferencing software presented new challenges. WebEx offers multiple products, including platforms designed for meetings, webinars, or training. This article discusses general ways to make your meetings, presentations and webinars accessible and specific WebEx features that can help you do that: https://www.accessibility.com/blog/webex-and-accessibility 14) This New Samsung Galaxy Feature Lets You Clone Your Own Voice (Sort Of) | ZDNet The most practical way to use your new AI-generated voice on a Galaxy phone is probably Bixby Text Calling — but is it the most fun? https://www.zdnet.com/article/this-new-samsung-galaxy-feature-lets-you-clone-your-own-voice-sort-of/#ftag=RSSbaffb68 15) What Is Alt Text and How to Write It | TPGi Alt text is a website feature that goes by many names: alt attributes, alt descriptions, alternate text. Whatever the name, this important accessibility feature may be overlooked by web design and development teams or considered an afterthought, given less effort than content featured on screen. In other cases, the alt text may be well-written, but fails to provide context that helps the user understand why it's been included on the page. In this post, we'll show you how to add alt text to your HTML or within your content management system (CMS) that improves accessibility and user experience for all, while also providing tips on how to thoughtfully address SEO considerations. This includes a how-to write alt text guide and good alt text examples: https://www.tpgi.com/what-is-alt-text-and-how-to-write-it/ 16) People Are Turning Their TVs Into Radios Radio is seeing another heyday as more people turn to their televisions to tune in. Households can use their smart TVs to access their favorite streaming audio service to listen to music, catch the latest news, and listen to local radio stations: https://cordcuttersnews.com/people-are-turning-their-tvs-into-radios/ 17) Access Both Alexa And Google Assistant On The Same Device. First Of Its Kind. | MS Power User Alexa and Google Assistant on the same device will be possible with the new JBL Authentics 200, 300, and 500 speakers, coming on September 17, 2023. The devices are the first smart speakers that offer access to both Google Assistant and Alexa at any time, according to Google. And you can easily switch between them as well, at any time by saying the corresponding wake words ("Hey Google" and "Alexa"): https://mspoweruser.com/alexa-and-google-assistant-on-the-same-device/ 18) How To Stop Someone From Tracking You On Your Phone | Fox News How would you feel if someone were spying on your every move, possibly listening to your conversations, and maybe even accessing your personal data without your consent? Would you even know if that were happening to you? https://www.foxnews.com/tech/how-stop-someone-tracking-you-your-phone 19) NV Access In-Process For August 25, 2023 https://www.nvaccess.org/post/in-process-25th-august-2023/ ➜ Featured Surveys Submit your access-related survey for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-survey. Closing: Ongoing | Surveys From APH Surveys help inform APH of the greatest needs in the community so they can gear their efforts toward making sure those needs are met. Ongoing APH surveys can be found here: https://www.aph.org/rd/get-involved/surveys/ Closing: September 1, 2023 | Autonomous Vehicle Perceptions by the Blind and Low Vision | Abigail Kuborn, Graduate Student, Indiana University School of Optometry I am Abigail Kuborn, a graduate student at the Indiana University School of Optometry researching user accessibility within autonomous or self-driving vehicles. We are investigating how diverse types of vision loss create different challenges and needs in transportation. Specifically, this project is investigating how blind and low vision users would prefer to interact with an autonomous vehicle. The future of this project is to partner with car manufacturers and shape the design of accessible technologies for users with any level of vision. I am looking for low vision and blind adults over the age of 18 who live in the United States to participate in my study. To be eligible for this study, participants must: Be over age 18. Speak English. Be blind or have low vision. This study consists of one phone call lasting about half an hour. We will have you complete a questionnaire over the phone about general characteristics about yourself, your travel behaviors, and your views about autonomous/self-driving vehicles. All of your responses will be anonymous and confidential. Participants who complete the questionnaire will be entered into a drawing for three $100 gift cards. To begin the study, please go to: https://redcap.link/participateIUSO. If you would prefer to talk to me directly, you can call me at (262) 416-3386 ☎. If you have any questions before, during or after the study, feel free to contact me at (262) 416-3386 ☎ or by email at amkuborn at iu.edu ✉. Thank you in advance for your time and participation in my research study. Closing: September 8, 2023 | Research: Smart Speaker And Skill Use: What Do We Know? | University of Pittsburgh The purpose of this research study is to learn about how people with disabilities use smart speakers and understand the benefits and challenges you experience. The findings will help develop training materials and improve smart speaker functions. You May Qualify If You Are: 18 years of age or older. Self-reporting using a smart speaker at least 3 times per week. Self-report of presently living with a physical disability, low-vision or blindness, or mild cognitive disability. Score of 18 or higher on the MiniMental State Exam OR score of 12-22 on MMSE Blind. Live in a community-based setting. Participation Involves: 1. Complete a demographic survey and a questionnaire about your experiences using a smart speaker. 2. Engage in a focus group (no more than 90 minutes) with other participants to discuss your thoughts and ideas relative to using your smart speaker in day-to-day life. Location: Focus groups sessions will occur either via Zoom (video or audio) or in person at a mutually agreed setting familiar to participants and/or the study team. Compensation: You will be compensated $25 for your participation in this study. For more information email: juf52 at pitt.edu ✉ Closing: September 8, 2023 | Study: Analyzing User Experiences In Mobile Health Applications | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | Accessible Healthcare Lab Hello. My name is Soyoung Choi, and I am Assistant Professor at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and the Director of the Accessible Healthcare Lab. The Accessible Healthcare Lab is dedicated to enhancing the accessibility and usability of mobile health technologies for everyone. We particularly want to understand the experiences of blind and low-vision adults aged older than 50 when they use smartphone apps to manage health behaviors (e.g., exercise, sleep, diet) or to track health metrics (e.g., blood pressure, blood glucose levels, heart rate). If you have advanced expertise in accessibility, or if you're an individual with blindness or low vision who uses a screen reader, we invite you to participate in our research. Your insights are crucial as we strive to develop a more accessible mobile health ecosystem. Please see below participant eligibility criteria: 1) Age: 50 years and above. 2) Diagnosis: Must have low vision or blindness, as confirmed by a physician. 3) Assistive technology: Must be able to use a screen reader. 4) Mobile health: Regularly uses smartphone apps to track health data. 5) Residence: Must be residing in the United States. *If you possess expertise in testing the accessibility of mobile health apps and are not visually impaired, please reach out to soyoung at illinois.edu ✉. Once we confirm your eligibility, we will schedule a Zoom interview at a time convenient for you. These interviews will last approximately 60-80 minutes. As a token of our appreciation, participants will receive a $40 Amazon e-Code upon completion of the interview. Closing: September 8, 2023 | State of Digital Accessibility Survey 2023 | Level Access Thank you for participating in our 2023 State of Digital Accessibility Survey! This survey, conducted annually by Level Access in partnership with the International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP) and the Global Initiative for Inclusive ICT's (G3ict), is aimed at better understanding how organizations are currently approaching digital accessibility, along with their priorities and challenges. The entire survey should take fewer than 15 minutes to complete, and your responses will be anonymous. Participation in this research is voluntary. Results will be published in aggregate in the 2023 State of Digital Accessibility Report: https://levelaccess.surveymonkey.com/r/JYW25JT ➜ Featured Podcast Episodes Submit your access-related Podcast Episode for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-podcast-episode. August 24, 2023 | Hadley Insights & Sound Bites Podcast: It's Not Often We Encounter an Angel Listen in as Bill shares how a chance encounter changed his perspective on vision loss: https://hadley.edu/podcasts/insights-sound-bites/its-not-often-we-encounter-angel August 25, 2023 | Ask Sharky: Use ChatGPT with JAWS We'll show you how to interact with ChatGPT on the web using JAWS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/freedom-scientific-training-podcast/id1521340640 August 25, 2023 | Episode 142, Android 14 Beta 5.2, OnePlus 10T Unboxing, Galaxy Watch 6 Review And More We first talk about the release of Android 14 Beta 5.2 which will roll out to pixel devices enrolled in android beta testing program but the fixes in this beta only apply to the Pixel fold and Pixel Tablet. It's a double bill in the Spotlight section this week. First, Warren unboxes the OnePlus 10T. Then John reviews the Samsung Galaxy Watch6 Classic. App of the week: Fi demonstrates the Threads app from Meta — a popular alternative to Twitter. Don't forget you'll need an Instagram account first in order to sign up for Threads. Commentary. Kareen updates us by showing us the new approach to editing in Jieshuo. Tip Of The Week: John shows us how to transfer your Android watch from one phone to another. | Android 14 Beta 5.2 Release Notes | OnePlus 10T | Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic | Episode: https://www.youtube.com/@BlindAndroidUsers/videos August 27, 2023 | Talking Technology Podcast Episode 38: What Does The Future Hold For Be My Eyes? Be My AI And Be My Eyes Groups | National Council for the Blind of Ireland Be My Eyes, a revolutionary app for the blind and low-vision community, has been connecting users with volunteers for assistance with everyday tasks since 2012. The service currently has over 6 million active volunteers in over 150 countries and is available in over 180 languages. On the show this week we're joined by the founder of the Be My Eyes app Hans Jørgen Wiberg. Hans gives us an overview of the app and talks about the best way to use it for sighted assistance. We hear about their recent partnership with Sky and a new feature called Virtual Volunteer, powered by OpenAI's recently announced GPT-4 model, which is set to take its power and value to new heights: https://www.ncbi.ie/talking-technology-podcast-episode-38-what-does-the-future-hold-for-be-my-eyes-be-my-ai-and-be-my-eyes-groups/ XX) Living Blindfully Episode 245: The Difficult Search For Accessible Household Appliances, Lyft Driver Encourages Colleagues To Discriminate, And Catching Up With Bookshare https://www.livingblindfully.com/episode-245the-difficult-search-for-accessible-household-appliances-lyft-driver-encourages-colleagues-to-discriminate-and-catching-up-with-bookshare/ August 30, 2023 | Eyes on Success Episode 2335: The Chatbots Are Coming Chatbots and Large Language Models have recently become very popular and developers are experimenting with many uses for them. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey demonstrate a few of the more commonly used tools to show what they are capable of and how you might be able to make use of them for aiding the visually impaired, work, school, or just plain fun: http://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show_notes_2335.htm August 31, 2023 | Top Tech Tidbits Podcast for Thursday, August 31, 2023 Tune in each week as we announce the Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits of the week. These 5 news items represent the most popular news and trends in adaptive technology today, as voted on by Top Tech Tidbits readers: https://toptechtidbits.com/podcast ➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events Submit your access-related Webinar, Training Course or Event for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-webinar-training-course. August 31, 2023 | FSOpenline | Freedom Scientific 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12AM GMT on 9/1 FSOpenline is hosted on the Zoom conferencing platform and the Clubhouse audio chat app. Join via Zoom, or download the Clubhouse app from the iOS App Store or Google Play to participate in this live event: https://zoom.us/j/7278038000?_x_zm_rtaid=JLrcZJLfR0CGeSOmS9Dn3g.1605555524846.894574b70d1d4051defcc9cb567d21aa&_x_zm_rhtaid=935#success September 6, 2023 | WeSpeak AI with Special Guest: Peter Tucic from Humanware Inc. 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 11PM GMT Save the Date: WeSpeak Live Event on September 6, 2023, at 6:00 PM Central Time! Mark your calendar for the WeSpeak Live event happening on September 6, 2023, at 6:00 PM Central Time. To join in via Zoom, visit http://www.wespeak.live to sign up. Plus, you can catch the live stream on Facebook and Clubhouse. Meet Our Special Guests: Mathieu Paquette and Peter Tucic from Humanware Inc. This time, we're excited to have Mathieu Paquette and Peter Tucic from Humanware Inc. as our special guests. They'll be joining Shawn Will and Kevin for an engaging discussion. Don't worry if you're not familiar with them; you'll get to know more about them during the event. Let's chat about tech and dive into some exciting AI topics. What specific tech or AI subjects are you curious about today? http://www.wespeak.live September 6, 2023 | Accessibility Testing with WCAG 2.2 | TPGi 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT The publication of WCAG 2.2 brings a range of new requirements for web accessibility testing. This presentation takes a detailed look at each of them, including those at AAA, and describes testing methods that can be used to assess web content against the new requirements: Step-by-step manual testing. Accessibility limitations for testers. Potential for automated testing. Attendees will learn how to test applicable content, how to identify exceptions and caveats, and gain insight into how the new Success Criteria can be integrated into existing testing procedures: https://www.tpgi.com/accessibility-testing-with-wcag-2-2/ September 6, 2023 | Alternative Text Creation (Digital Accessibility Webinar) | Access Ingenuity 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT Creating alternate text for images in documents and websites is critical to the digital accessibility puzzle. Alternate text should be concise and provide meaningful image context. Overly descriptive image descriptions can make the document harder to read and understand. Join Rachel Reeves from Access Ingenuity and learn more about creating alternative text for images used in documents and web pages. Learning Outcomes & Zoom Webinar Information. Learn why creating alternative text is essential and when it's needed. Discuss best practices when using images in document creation. Explore the best ways to describe images using alternative text: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83663078780?pwd=ckNKbFpJKzJxaFM2ZkM1dmY4YmhuQT09&mc_cid=ce73907c70&mc_eid=90429c1885#success September 7, 2023 | Using JAWS Inspect and JAWS Connect for Testing | TPGi 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT Presenter: Charlie Pike, Platform Success Lead. Using transcripts of JAWS speech, you can quickly pinpoint accessibility and usability issues. This demonstration will walk you through some simple tests using both JAWS Inspect and JAWS Connect, explaining how these tools can be integrated into your test processes. Register today: https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-september-7-at-12pm-et-using-jaws-inspect-and-jaws-connect-for-testing/ September 7, 2023 | Zoom Basics Using JAWS | Computers For The Blind | Marci Duty and Stephen Guerra 4:30PM PT, 5:30PM MT, 6:30PM CT, 7:30 PM ET, 11:30PM GMT Learn Zoom Basics with the JAWS screen Reader: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_MtPGcLuzS02nfaGMk-Bd_A September 7, 2023 | Leveraging Your Disability to Find a Job: How to Make Your blindness or Low Vision a Strength When Job Seeking | National Research & Training Center on Blindness & Low Vision (NRTC) 12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT Individuals who are blind or have low vision often face many employment-related barriers. In recent years, several organizations that provide services to job seekers and employers have formed that not only work to address barriers to employment but provide an employment advantage for blind and low-vision individuals. Hear from Jonathan Lucus with NSITE, Ross Barchacky with inclusively, and Kristin Smedley, author of Thriving Blind: Stories Real People Succeeding Without Sight. Jonathan and Ross will share information about their organizations' services. Kristin will talk about emphasizing strengths, such as problem-solving skills and adaptability, that you gained from living with a visual impairment. Learn how to leverage your disability and market yourself to potential employers to obtain employment: https://www.ntac.blind.msstate.edu/consumers/webinars-podcasts September 9, 2023 | The Low Vision Shop | TUG Meeting 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT On Saturday, September 9, the Technology User Group (TUG) welcomes The Low Vision Shop. This company offers the BlindShell mobile phone, the All-Terrain Cane, and a wide array of other low vision and blindness products. In addition, they offer training, a podcast, a support group and so much more. You do not have to RSVP for this event. The presentation will begin at 10 AM and last about 60 minutes. Call in Number: (319) 527-4994 ☎. Webcast: https://join.freeconferencecall.com/mdlbpd September 12, 2023 | Case Study: Creating Accessible Cultural Experiences | TPGi 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT Museums, art galleries, and cultural spaces increasingly rely on digital technologies to engage visitors with their collections. It is vital that such experiences are accessible to people with disabilities. This presentation describes how accessibility was integrated into the design and development of a free mobile app featuring digital guides to cultural institutions around the world. TPGi partnered with Bloomberg Connects to improve accessibility features of the app, which now provides the means for people with disabilities to engage with cultural institutions and experience their content in an accessible and inclusive way. The presentation will cover the way key accessibility barriers were identified and addressed, reflect on how the results of usability testing with people with disabilities helped verify the quality of the app's user experience, and consider future developments: https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-september-12-at-12pm-et-case-study-creating-accessible-cultural-experiences/ September 13, 2023 | Connect 12's New Dictionary Powered By Oxford Languages HumanWare 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT In collaboration with Oxford Languages, a part of Oxford University Press, this partner webinar will focus on leveraging the all-new Dictionary app to enhance reading comprehension support for your students. Be sure to participate in the interactive Q&A session at the end: https://humanware.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_2Pf2AFa7QsCBvnaR1D3QBQ#/registration September 13, 2023 | RUBY Handheld Magnifiers: The Portable Vision Solution (Assistive Technology Webinar) | Access Ingenuity 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT Did you know there are five RUBY models to help with your low vision needs? RUBY handheld video magnifiers provide the help that many people with low vision need to read text and see details. All RUBY models have a crisp, sharp image, high-contrast modes, and built-in LEDs. The streamlined design means RUBY can go with you anywhere, giving you easy access to photos, letters, prescriptions, packaging labels, and menus, even in a dark restaurant. With its broad range of adjustable, undistorted magnification, a RUBY video magnifier outperforms a drawerful of traditional magnifiers. There is even a model that is capable of full-page OCR. With a button, you can scan pages and have them read aloud. Join Ian Ramos from Access Ingenuity and Joe McDaniel from Vispero to discuss the features and benefits of all the RUBY models and the assistance each can give in specific situations. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. Teachers of the visually impaired (TVI) can earn ACVREP continuing education credit by attending this approved presentation. Learning Outcomes & Zoom Webinar Information. Features of all RUBY models. How to determine the right size for you. How adding speech capability can take you further: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82276472195?pwd=bWVaMVVtaWRQZnJkck1vNlJDRVBFZz09&mc_cid=ce73907c70&mc_eid=90429c1885#success September 14, 2023 | The Many Faces of BARD: Using Your Braille Display to Read Braille BARD Books on Your iPhone 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 11PM GMT The topic for the September 14, 2023, Many Faces of BARD program will be Using Your Braille Display to Read Braille BARD Books on Your iPhone. The program will begin at 7:00 p.m. eastern time and last for one hour. This program will be recorded. For this session, Judy Dixon will demonstrate how to access BARD braille books located on your iPhone and read them with your braille display. Note that information in this session will apply to any braille display including the NLS Braille eReaders. After the demonstration, Judy and the rest of the NLS staff will take questions about the demonstration or anything else relating to BARD. Remember that the meeting is recorded. Do not speak if you do not wish to be on the recording. If you wish to speak, you may request to do so by raising your hand. On a PC, press Alt Y to toggle raising and lowering your hand; on a Mac, press Option Y; and if dialing in via telephone, press Star 9. To mute or unmute yourself on a PC, press Alt A; on a Mac, press Command-Shift A; and on a telephone, press Star 6. If you choose to dial in to the call, use the telephone numbers provided below. The Zoom.gov ID will not work with standard Zoom.us. The session can be joined by going to: https://loc.zoomgov.com/j/1609390773?pwd=bWtTcmhyNlplcm9ndnRrd0xOZFFRQT09 September 19, 2023 | The Accessible Forms Checklist | TPGi 9:30AM PT, 10:30AM MT, 11:30AM CT, 12:30PM ET, 4:30PM GMT Forms are one of the most important features in websites. They are a critical method of communication between people and companies. Yet far too often this communication is difficult or impossible due to poor accessibility. Accessible forms are easy to understand, complete, and submit. Instructions, cues, and requirements must be clearly identified to users. It must be simple to recover from errors. In this session, you will learn how to find accessibility errors in forms by using our high-level checklist. Our goal is to help build your knowledge around the WCAG success criteria related to forms. We will cover many topics, including: Using labels and groups to identify elements. Exposing the required and invalid attributes. Having clear errors and instructions. Robust, accessible names for controls: https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-september-19-at-1230pm-et-the-accessible-forms-checklist/ September 20, 2023 | Creating Accessible PDF Fillable Forms (Digital Accessibility Webinar) | Access Ingenuity 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT Did you know that creating fillable PDF forms is crucial in meeting WCAG compliance? If you have a website form that is not a fillable PDF and requires a user to print it out to submit, users of assistive technology will face an accessibility barrier. In this webinar, we explore the different types of forms available in Acrobat, discuss best practices in formatting with accessibility in mind, and review the tag structure for fillable forms in PDF remediation to make them accessible for users. Join Rachel Reeves from Access Ingenuity for the basics of form creation in Acrobat Pro. Learning Outcomes & Zoom Webinar Information. Briefly review the best way to format MS Word documents when converted to PDF Fillable Forms. Discuss best practices for setting up form fields in your document. Showcase the form types available in Acrobat Pro and the settings needed for accessibility. Demonstrate how to tag form fields to make them accessible in your PDF: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88577101449?pwd=dkdkb2JBVE4xM05vbVR5MHYxazRDUT09&mc_cid=ce73907c70&mc_eid=90429c1885#success September 21, 2023 | Inclusive Design 24 Inclusive Design 24 (#id24) is a free 24-hour online event for the global community. It celebrates inclusive design and shares knowledge and ideas from analogue to digital, from design to development, from planners to practitioners, and everything and everyone in between: https://inclusivedesign24.org/2023/ September 26, 2023 | Tech It Out | Monthly Hadley Discussion Group 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12AM GMT Next Day 4th Tuesday of every month at 7:00 PM CT. Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences. https://hadley.edu/discussion-groups/tech-it-out September 27, 2023 | Basic Internet Browsing with JAWS (Assistive Technology Webinar) | Access Ingenuity 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT Are you apprehensive about surfing the internet with JAWS, or do you want to understand the basics of web browsing with JAWS? Join Marisa Church and Ian Ramos from Access Ingenuity as we discuss some basic terminology, demonstrate great techniques, and explore helpful tools to lay the foundation for effectively navigating web pages. Learning Outcomes & Zoom Webinar Information. Explain the layout of a browser window with basic terms. Present basic navigating commands. Activate some JAWS tools to enhance the browsing experience: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88231843911?pwd=SnRYU0ZnUks0WlVzdWx4azAwdmw0dz09&mc_cid=ce73907c70&mc_eid=90429c1885#success September 27, 2023 | How to Write an Accessibility Statement | TPGi 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT We'll cover the various purposes for and key information to include in a website accessibility statement. Plus, we'll evaluate real-world examples of accessibility statements. Each attendee gains a template format to publish their own website accessibility statement. This webinar evaluates real-world examples of accessibility statements and answers frequently asked questions such as: Who at an organization should write an accessibility statement? Should the statement be written by an attorney? Should the statement explicitly acknowledge the parts of the website or application which do not conform to accessibility guidelines? Should the statement offer phone support or alternative options if a user finds the website to be inaccessible? The objective is for each attendee to come away with a clear approach for their own organization, whether it's a small business or a global brand. Join us for a lively discussion of website accessibility statements: https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-september-27-at-12pm-et-how-to-write-an-accessibility-statement/ September 29, 2023 | Blindness and Mental Health Webinar | Accessible Pharmacy 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT Please join us as we discuss mental health in the blind and low vision community. Expert presenters will discuss: Psychology and therapy for the blind community. Medications and genomic testing. Peer and community support resources. 988 Mental Health Hotline information: https://accessiblepharmacy.com/blindness-and-mental-health-webinar/ October 4, 2023 | FEMA Nationwide EAS Test 11:20AM PT, 12:20PM MT, 1:20PM CT, 2:20PM ET, 6:20PM GMT FEMA, in coordination with the FCC, will conduct a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) this fall. The national test will consist of two portions, testing WEA and EAS capabilities. Both tests are scheduled to begin at 2:20pm ET on Wednesday, October 4. The EAS portion of the test will be sent to radios and televisions. This will be the seventh nationwide EAS test: https://news.radio-online.com/cgi-bin/rol.exe/headline_id=b17534 October 13, 2023 | Blindness and Clinical Trials Webinar | Accessible Pharmacy 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT Please join us as we discuss clinical trials for the blind and low vision community with these expert presenters: Ben Shaberman, VP Science Communications Foundation Fighting Blindness. Marin Allen, former Deputy Director of Communications, National Institute of Health. Maggie Cashion, Clinical Research Manager, Prism Vision Group: https://accessiblepharmacy.com/blindness-and-clinical-trials-webinar/ October 24, 2023 | Creating a Sustainable Digital Accessibility Business Plan | Accessibility.com 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT Every business needs a digital accessibility plan. Learn how to craft one for your business, no matter the size, that is sustainable as your business grows: https://www.accessibility.com/event/2023/creating-a-sustainable-digital-accessibility-business-plan October 24, 2023 | Tech It Out | Monthly Hadley Discussion Group 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12AM GMT Next Day 4th Tuesday of every month at 7:00 PM CT. Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences. https://hadley.edu/discussion-groups/tech-it-out November 6, 2023 through November 10, 2023 | Accessing Higher Ground | Association on Higher Education And Disability (AHEAD) Accessible Media, Web and Technology Conference. Hilton Denver City Center, Denver, Colorado: https://accessinghigherground.org/ November 28, 2023 | Tech It Out | Monthly Hadley Discussion Group 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 11PM GMT 4th Tuesday of every month at 7:00 PM CT. Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences. https://hadley.edu/discussion-groups/tech-it-out December 1, 2023 and December 2, 2023 | Blind Health Expo 2023 | Exhibitor and Attendee Registration Now Open The Blind Health Expo is the largest virtual event of healthcare information, products, services, and medication for individuals in the blind, low vision, and disability communities. Exhibitors can: Register for free. Interact with thousands of attendees. Showcase their products and services: https://accessiblepharmacy.com/blind-health-expo-2023/ December 26, 2023 | Tech It Out | Monthly Hadley Discussion Group 5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 11PM GMT 4th Tuesday of every month at 7:00 PM CT. Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences. https://hadley.edu/discussion-groups/tech-it-out ➜ Directories 1) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired App Directory https://toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-app-directory.html 2) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Game Directory https://toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-game-directory.html 3) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Listserv Directory https://toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-listserv-directory.html 4) Top Tech Tidbits Blind And Visually Impaired Podcast Directory https://toptechtidbits.com/blind-and-visually-impaired-technology-podcast-directory.html ➜ Buy, Sell or Trade List your new, gently-used or refurbished item in FOUR (4) consecutive issues of Top Tech Tidbits for just $5 USD by filling out this short form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-buy-sell-trade. 1) FOR SALE: One Gently Used Braille Sense 6 Listing Date: 8/31/2023 | Price: $4,000.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: This item is in perfect condition and will only be shipped to someone in the US. | Contact: Grace via email at: grace.alpren at gmail.com ✉. | 2) FOR SALE: One Gently Used Victor Reader Stream Trek Listing Date: 8/31/2023 | Price: $450.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: One gently used VR Trek in perfect working order and includes an executive products case. | Contact: Jane via email at: jflower418 at gmail.com ✉ or by phone / text at: (415) 492-4176 ☎. | 3) FOR SALE: One Gently Used Braille Labeled Soundcraft Signature 22 MTK Mixer Listing Date: 8/24/2023 | Price: $950.00 USD | Condition: Gently Used. | Description: Price includes shipping in USA. Product still under warranty. Dive into a world of superior audio mixing and recording with the Soundcraft Signature 22 MTK. This analog mixer is in like-new condition, having been carefully maintained and presenting no signs of wear or tear. The detailed pictures, available upon request, clearly showcase the immaculate state of this unit. Features: Multi-Track USB Interface. Iconic Soundcraft Ghost Mic Preamps. Soundcraft Sapphyre British EQ. Lexicon Effects Engine. High-Quality Metal Construction. Braille Labeling (can be removed if not required). The Soundcraft Signature 22 MTK offers a comprehensive mixing solution for both live and studio environments. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring audio engineer, this mixer is sure to elevate your creative endeavors. | Contact: Mike via email at: mike at mikecalvo.com ✉ or by phone / text at: (612) 246-4818 ☎. | 4) FOR SALE: One Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Ad (Just like this one.) 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. | Buy an Ad: Fill out this short form to secure your Buy, Sell or Trade Classified Advertisement today. | Learn more at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/buy-sell-trade.html. ➜ Sponsor Classified Ads Sponsors may submit or update their Classified Advertisement at any time by submitting this short form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-sponsor-classified. Sponsor: A. T. Guys ➜ Classified Advertisement: Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub 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: https://www.atguys.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=28&products_id=331 Sponsor Since: June 11th 2020 Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐 Phone: (269) 216-4798 ☎ Email: support at atguys.com ✉ Skype: atguys ✆ X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/atguys (@atguys) ✍ Facebook: https://facebook.com/atguys ✍ About: ATGuys.com. Your access technology experts, home for cool gadgets, accessories, and more. Our products are all tested to work great for blind and visually impaired users but also work just as well for anyone. If there's an item you're looking for, or if you have a question, please don't hesitate to send us a message or call (269) 216-4798 ☎. Sponsor: Wordvoyance ➜ Classified Advertisement: FREE: Wordvoyance: A Scrabble Game For Screen Readers Introducing: The first and only scrabble app that blind and sighted players can play together! Completely ad-free and based on the classic board game, Wordvoyance is the perfect choice for everyone from schools and young families to grizzled word game veterans. Play against the single-player CPU or challenge your friends online. The game can be played in any web browser, even on your phone, with Android and iOS apps available in select regions: https://www.themisgames.com/wordvoyance/ Sponsor Since: August 3, 2023 Website: https://www.themisgames.com/wordvoyance/ 🌐 About: Wordvoyance is a multiplayer crossword-building game similar to Scrabble and Words With Friends. It has been carefully crafted to be playable by everyone, and it includes multiple accessibility features for people with blindness and other disabilities. For players with unhindered sight, the game will play exactly as you expect. You can drag and drop tiles to form words on the board and rack up points. For everyone else, the game is fully compatible with popular screen readers and can be played with a number of different input methods including keyboards, assistive technology, and even game controllers. Play Game (Web Browser): https://www.themisgames.com/wordvoyance/menu Play Game (iOS App Store): https://apps.apple.com/us/app/wordvoyance/id1672135719 Play Game (Google Play Store): https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.exceptionullgames.wordvoyance Play Game (Other): For iOS users outside of our soft launch regions you can download the app via Apple's TestFlight Store at: https://testflight.apple.com/join/UsNLOulZ Game Manual: https://www.themisgames.com/wordvoyance/manual Sponsor: The Accessibility Guy ➜ Classified Advertisement: Expert Document Accessibility Remediation: Compliant, Multilingual, & Inclusive Unlock the power of inclusivity with our specialized document accessibility remediation services. With over 100,000 documents transformed and compliant with standards such as Section 508, WCAG 2.1 AA, HHS, AODA, and PDF/UA, we are your go-to accessibility experts. No document is too complex! What To Expect: Screen Reader Testing: We test all documents with industry-leading tools like JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, CommonLook Validator, and PAC3. Turnaround Time: Our standard time is 5 business days. Expedited options are available. Forms Handling: We specialize in making static PDFs accessible to screen readers. Languages Supported: Offering remediation in over 50 languages. File Types Supported: Word, PDF, PowerPoint. Custom Reports: Available for an additional fee. Learn More: https://theaccessibilityguy.com/document-remediation/ 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: Glidance Sponsor Since: July 20th 2023 Website: https://glidance.io/ 🌐 About: Fun and easy, you'll just love going out. You walk with confidence, and Glide will simply guide you where you want to go. Just Grab Your Glide And Walk With Confidence Glide will guide you to your destination or just keep you to a safe path and leave it to you to steer the way, giving you full autonomy and independence. Portable, Light And Versatile Glide uses advanced technology to help you safely and smoothly weave your way among obstacles and people, and make your way to a near by door, steps or a park bench. Easy To Use Smart technology for effortless mobility. Affordable No fancy back flips, just what you need to get back out there. Quick To Learn Our friendly design means you'll be up and running in no time. Feel Confident Without hesitation, anxiety, or getting lost. Get started with Glide today at: https://glidance.io/. Sponsor: Echobatix Sponsor Since: July 20th 2023 Website: https://echobatix.com/ 🌐 App: Download the Echobatix App from the Apple App Store here. About: Echobatix develops accessibility products and indoor navigation systems for the blind, the DeafBlind, and those with low vision. Our technology complements the use of a cane or guide dog and your existing Orientation and Mobility (O&M) skills. Our first app is an accessibility tool for printed text, touch screens, kiosks, and signage. Read what's at the end of your finger. Speak to search for a word. Sponsor: Ayes.ai ➜ Classified Advertisement: Every Traffic Light Accessible With The OKO Application AYES is happy to announce the launch of our new application OKO. OKO uses artificial intelligence and the back camera to recognize the pedestrian traffic light and inform the user of the walk, don't walk and the countdown state. We bring this state back to the user with three types of feedback, visual overlay, vibrations and audio feedback. The application does not rely on any adaptations to the traffic light and runs locally on the smartphone, this means that it works at every intersection. We always recommend to hold the phone at chest level with the camera pointing towards the direction that you want to cross. You can then rotate your chest between 10 to 15 degrees to locate the pedestrian traffic light. The moment we see that light the software immediately reacts. This helps to orient in the right direction and also stops you from veering off into traffic because the moment you veer off the feedback stops, you reorient and receive feedback to continue in the right direction. https://apps.apple.com/be/app/oko-by-ayes/id1583614988 Sponsor Since: March 16th 2023 Website: https://ayes.ai/ 🌐 App: Download the OKO App from the Apple App Store here. Email: hello at ayes.ai ✉ About: AYES was founded by three experienced AI engineers that are defining autonomous navigation for blind and visually impaired people. AYES.ai is the creator of the OKO App. Simply point the back camera of the phone towards the intersection that you want to cross and the OKO application will instantly detect the traffic light and inform the user through audio and haptic feedback. The OKO application can provide multiple services for your company, city or your country, all independent of physical infrastructure. This can increase your accessibility to 100%, overnight. OKO provides an accessible traffic light at every intersection. And, best of all, all OKO data is completely anonymized, ensuring your personal privacy at all times. The OKO app is fully independent from infrastructure and does not require a Wi-Fi or Cellular connection to operate at full capacity. The algorithm runs locally on your device, meaning that it works consistently and reliably every single time. The application has been trained on more than 150,000 images and continues to improve. Download the app today. Sponsor: Sterling Adaptives, LLC ➜ Classified Advertisement: Limited Time Introductory Pricing On The New Victor Reader Stream 3! With the NEW Victor Reader Stream 3, it's so easy to take your books, music, and more wherever you go. Imagine being able to listen to the latest novels, magazines, or your favorite music, podcasts, and your own voice recordings, all in the palm of your hand. With its sleek, compact design and easy-to-grip edges, the digital media player gives you hours of listening wherever you are and a superior text-to-speech experience in multiple languages. Take advantage of our introductory pricing on the NEW Victor Reader Stream 3! Order today or call (415) 878-2922 ☎. Use promo code TOPTECH for Free Shipping! https://sterlingadaptives.com/products/humanware-victor-reader-stream-3rd-generation Sponsor Since: March 9th 2023 Website: https://sterlingadaptives.com/ 🌐 Shop: https://sterlingadaptives.com/collections/vision-products Phone: (415) 878-2922 ☎ Email: info at sterlingadaptives.com ✉ Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time Social: Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | Instagram About: Based in California, Sterling Adaptives supplies the most technologically advanced equipment and software currently available. We serve those who are blind or have visual impairment and also others with disabilities. We have a showroom in Santa Rosa and can also meet in the comfort of your home. We supply a full range of computer hardware, software, peripherals, and assistive technology products. We are able to provide demonstrations, installations, troubleshooting, and ongoing product training. We work with private individuals, non-profit agencies, private organizations, educational establishments, and commercial enterprises. We help our customers fully realize their potential. We are known for providing you and your clients with the standards of service that you demand and that result in the right product at the right time and with the right backup service. We look forward to hearing from you and being afforded the opportunity to show you just how Sterling our service is! Sponsor: The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. Sponsor Since: December 29th 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. Sponsor: WayAround ➜ Classified Advertisement: Have You Tried The Best Way to Label Things if You're Blind or Have Low Vision? 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. ➜ Label your kitchen, clothing, or medication. ➜ Tag specialty items and tools for hobbies. ➜ Organize lots of information about one thing on a single WayTag. ➜ Scan each WayTag 100,000 times or more. Keep adding more WayTags! Use any style of tag, in any order. There's no limit to the number of WayTags you can use. So you can rely on one system to label all your things. Try our Starter Pack to experience ALL of the different types of WayTags! https://www.wayaround.com/shop/?utm_source=AssistiveTech&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=AccessInfoNewsSponsorAd Sponsor Since: January 5, 2023 Website: https://www.wayaround.com/ 🌐 General Sales & Support: (888) 898-4465 ☎ Business Sales & Support: (888) 898-4465 ☎ Email: connect at 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: Aira Sponsor Since: August 4th 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 at aira.io ✉ Social: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram About: Aira's mission is to remove barriers and make the world more accessible with visual interpreting. We provide a live, human-to-human professional assistance service, an accommodation or productivity tool, that enhances independence by delivering on-demand, skilled and reliable visual interpreting for just about any task. Using the powerful combination of a camera and the Aira app on someone's device of 'choice', a professionally-trained agent will assist by visually interpreting what is in the camera's view or on screen, from describing to reading, from explaining to navigating - just about anything, safely and securely. Aira supports a growing range of devices including smart and tactile button phones, desktop computers and soon, wearables. Whether you are involved in the work of business, the work of school or the work of life, Aira enhances everyday efficiency, engagement, and independence. Used by employees and customers of hundreds of organizations including airports, banks, the largest software companies, financial firms, retailers and universities, we invite you to join the community, access the Aira app today and try it for free. https://aira.io/download-and-try-it/ Step One: Subscribe and Download. Pick the plan that lets you explore on your terms and on your time, sign up in a few minutes, and download the Aira app to your smartphone. Plans shown are for the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Add or cancel at any time. Step Two: Connect with an Aira Agent. On the first call, connect with one of our certified, specially-trained Agents and learn how everything works. Step Three: Real-time Assistance. At the touch of a button, Aira delivers instant access to visual information, when and where you want it. Sponsor: Fable ➜ Classified Advertisement: Learn Management Skills For Free. Get The Job You Want. 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. https://tinyurl.com/3x7d7t3v Sponsor Since: June 30th 2022 Website: https://fablepathways.com/ 🌐 Email: community at makeitfable.com ✉ Phone: (888) 212-3532 ☎ Extension 810 About: Just like curb cuts help everyone get on and off sidewalks, designing digital products with accessibility in mind helps make the internet more accessible for everyone. Fable is an accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities. Fable connects people with disabilities to accessibility managers, user researchers, designers, and developers to build incredible and accessible user experiences. Opportunities: ➜ Fable Pathways: Fable Pathways is a free skill development program for people with disabilities interested in working in the tech sector. Sign up to take your career to the next level. Courses include "Getting started in web development" taught by Kelly Ford, a screen reader user, and Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, and "Becoming a manager" taught by Fable's Head of Accessibility Innovation, Kate Kalcevich. Instructors are subject matter experts in their fields and have lived experience with disability. Pathways courses are free, self-paced and assistive-technology-friendly. Sign up now at https://fablepathways.com/. ➜ Fable's Community of Accessibility Testers: Work from home to contribute to real changes in digital accessibility and make the internet a more accessible place for everyone. Ever leave a website because it was too hard to navigate? Because it was missing button labels? Because it didn't respond to voice commands? Us too. Our community of testers who use assistive technologies work from home and contribute to real changes in digital accessibility with recognizable brands. Earn money to share your feedback on websites and apps of your favorite brands and work with companies that care. No experience required and no resume required. Fable is looking for assistive technology users in the USA and Canada to work the hours that they want, from the comfort of their own homes. Learn more at https://fablepathways.com/community/. Sponsor: Clusiv ➜ Classified Advertisement: Looking For Blind Job-Seekers Wanting To Advance Their Salaries, Careers And Digital Accessibility For The Blind Are you interested in learning new tech skills and working remotely while earning a competitive salary? At Clusiv.io we have created the world's first digitally accessible e-Learning platform built by the blind, and built for the blind. Visit the link provided and request Clusiv through your Vocational Rehab counselor for lifetime access to our e-Learning platform with courses such as Business Applications, JAWS, and more: https://clusiv.io/ Sponsor Since: June 9th 2022 Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐 About: As there are many challenges people in the blind community face in employment and education, Clusiv has built the world's first e-learning platform designed for the blind to provide the training, tools, and resources needed to remove barriers to the modern workforce. Our courses teach you occupational and technology skills you need towards employment. Plus, we are working to connect our graduates to internship and job opportunities. Our courses are remote, self-paced, and we provide support throughout your whole journey through our student success team, and even provide lifetime access to our courses so you can keep up to date as technology evolves. You can request Clusiv training through your vocational rehabilitation counselor and fill out the form in the link below on our website. If you are a counselor wanting to learn more about Clusiv for your clients, or an employer looking to hire Clusiv graduates, click the respective link below and fill out a form to get more info. ➜ Person Looking To Enroll In Clusiv Courses ➜ Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Looking To Learn More About Clusiv For Their Clients ➜ Employer Looking To Hire Clusiv Graduates Sponsor: Double Tap TV ➜ Classified Advertisement: Subscribe to the Double Tap Podcast Double Tap is the show where blind people talk tech! If you're blind or partially sighted and have an interest in technology, this is the show for you. Everyone is welcome no matter how old you are or how much or how little experience you have with technology. Each week the team will help you better understand how technology can help your everyday life, even if you have little or no sight. Join the conversation and add your voice to the show either by calling in, sending an email or leaving us a voicemail! Email: feedback at doubletap.online ✉. Phone: +1 (844) 971-1999 ☎ https://bit.ly/3BQmUTl Sponsor Since: December 23rd 2021 Email: feedback at doubletap.online ✉ Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3BQmUTl About: Double Tap TV is a weekly tech show on AMI-tv, (also available on CBC Gem in Canada and YouTube). Each week join hosts Steven Scott (@blindguytech) and Marc Aflalo (@marcaflalo) as they help viewers better understand how technology can assist in everyday life. Its tech from an accessible point of view! The show features interviews with some of the biggest names in consumer tech and features up and coming companies and services. Sponsor: HIMS, Inc. ➜ Classified Advertisement: HIMS is Hiring! HIMS, Inc. is the manufacturer and distributor of industry leading blindness and low vision technology solutions serving the assistive technology needs of the United States, Canada and outlying U.S. territories. Come enjoy the best in music, world-class dining and rich cultural diversity that the city of Austin Texas has to offer while having a positive impact on the lives of the people we serve. If you are a hard worker and would like to make a meaningful difference in people's lives, then we hope you will consider a career with HIMS, Inc. Currently we have 2 positions to consider. If you are interested in, please email your cover letter and resume to: randy at selvashc.com ✉. Please note that all applicants will be subject to reference verification and a background check prior to employment start date. Positions can be found at: https://hims-inc.com/job-posting/ Sponsor Since: September 30th 2021 Website: https://hims-inc.com/ 🌐 Shop All Products: https://hims-inc.com/shop-all-products/ 🛒 Phone: (512) 837-2000 ☎ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5R9NjA1nfWo Sales Email: sales at hims-inc.com ✉ Support Email: support at hims-inc.com ✉ About: HIMS, Inc. is a global manufacturer and distributor that has provided braille, magnification and accessible healthcare devices since 1999. Sponsor: Carroll Center for the Blind ➜ Classified Advertisement: Attend the Screen Reader User Tester Training Program at the Carroll Center for the Blind 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 by visiting: https://carroll.org/screen-reader-user-tester-training-program/ Sponsor Since: August 5th 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. Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions ➜ Classified Advertisement: Only $60/Year! BlindShell Classic 2 Now Integrates Sero for Accessible Audio Content & More For just $60 a year until September 30th, 2023, users of the BlindShell Classic 2 phone can now leverage the robust Sero platform, creating an accessible, user-friendly experience for the visually impaired. Sero provides streaming radio, thousands of hours of audio content, news, forums, podcasts, and voice chat rooms, fostering an empowered community. Use the BlindShell's famous t9-driven interface, or ditch the keypad entirely and leverage Alexa on the BlindShell for hands-free access to your Sero content! This collaboration between BlindShell and Pneuma Solutions, Sero's developers, unlocks productivity features and entertainment options that enhance digital lifestyles. The future of accessible tech is here! Integrate the feature-rich Sero platform into your BlindShell device phone for only $60 a year! https://pneumasolutions.com/blindshell Sponsor Since: June 3rd 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. Sponsor: Freedom Scientific ➜ Classified Advertisement: Freedom Scientific Focus Blue 5th Generation Refreshable Braille Displays 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: https://www.freedomscientific.com/products/blindness/focus-blue-family/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=Top%20Tech%20Tidbit Sponsor Since: April 15th 2021 Website: https://www.freedomscientific.com/ 🌐 Email: info at 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. Sponsor: Humanware ➜ Classified Advertisement: BRAILLIANT Renewed! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series is here! The wait is over! A redefined family of Brailliant refreshable Braille displays has arrived! The NEW Brailliant BI X Series will help you stay connected, download books from many participating online libraries and share information easily with your peers. You will enjoy the intuitive, seamless user experience of KeySoft Lite, the HumanWare flagship accessibility suite designed to make you more productive. Including the Brailliant BI 40X and the Brailliant BI 20X, this is the Brailliant idea you need! http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/123020211100-BrailliantBIX-Launch-US.htm Sponsor Since: February 4th 2021 Website: http://humanware.com/ 🌐 Phone (Asia): +61 2 9686 2600 ☎ Phone (Australia): +61 2 9686 2600 ☎ Phone (Canada): +1 888 723-7273 ☎ Phone (Europe): +44 1933 415 800 ☎ Phone (International): +44 1933 415 800 ☎ Phone (Ireland): +01 8307033 ☎ Phone (New Zealand): +027 700 1674 ☎ Phone (United Kingdom): +01933 415800 ☎ Phone (United States): +1 800 722-3393 ☎ YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRWVYiggn-w 🎥 About: HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world's leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier. Sponsor: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store ➜ Classified Advertisement: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Adaptations Online Store Featured Products Revolution Cane Tip: Standard Roller Tip: $14.50 | Locator Dots: Small Pack of 6 (Clear or Orange): $2.00 | NFB Metal Cane Tip: $3.00 | TMAP - On Demand Tactile Street | Map (set of two maps): $25.00 | Ambutech Aluminum Folding Cane: $35.00 | NFB Chris Park Telescoping Cane: $45.00 | BoldWriter 20 Pen (Individual or 6-pack): $2.00 | Bump Dots: Mixed (50 count): $7.00 | Braille Apple Catalina VoiceOver Guide OSX 10.15 (3 volumes) - Latest Manual: $52.00 | SpeedDots iPhone Tactile Screen Protector, Phone Layout: $12.00 | NFB Chris Park 7-Piece Folding Cane: $50.00 | Visit https://adaptations.org/ to learn more today! Sponsor Since: October 1, 2020 Website: https://adaptations.org/ 🌐 Toll Free: (888) 400-8933 ☎ Local: (415) 694-7301 ☎ About: Founded in 1902, San Francisco's LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or have low vision. Adaptations is your online go-to for tools, technology, and accessible solutions for blind and visually impaired people. Sponsor: GuideLights and Gadgets ➜ Classified Advertisement: July Convention Specials New Watches! Announcing our partnership with Auguste Reymond of Switzerland, maker of the best Braille watches in the world. Their prestige line for both ladies and men, in gold and silver, have CZs as Braille dots, with 4 o'clock stem openings. GRAB BAGS. We have collected a lot of useful items that for one reason or another were never sold or are the last remaining from a popular item. We have $25 $50 and $100 bags, Each will have at least 4 items with twice the bag retail value. Our 60 inch locking titanium telescopic cane is on sale for $60. we also now can supply ball and teardrop rolling tips. We have new custom leather cases at a fraction of the cost of competitors for the Stream 3, Stream 2, SensePlayer, and the Blind shell phone. Purchase an Orbit Braille display and get one of our leather cases for free. If you are at ACB, come visit Barry and Lisa at Booths 25 and 26. Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us Sponsor Since: June 25th 2020 Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐 For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at: Phone: (617) 969-7500 ☎ Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech at gmail.com ✉ For All Things Dog Contact Kae at: Phone: (781) 286-1696 ☎ Email: guidelightdogs at gmail.com ✉ About: Our Scope of Products: We specialize in 3 lines of products, all intended to assist in access to adaptive electronics, enhance experiences for guide dog teams, and offer practical solutions for organization and travel with a variety of leather bags, pouches, and backpacks. Then there are the random products that are included, just for fun! We enjoy working with our customers 1-on-1 to their money is well spent and not wasted on something they may not use. In thinking about our customers and whether we will carry a product our guiding motto is that it must be: practical, affordable, simple, tested, and accessible (the pasta principle) and it seems to work very well. What We Do: We bring our business either via zoom, phone, or to your conference or convention, to give each customer a chance for questions and where possible, "hands on" evaluation of the merchandise. Kae and I test and use each product as blind users before we put it in our catalog. In the case of products for guide and service dogs, our own three guides, Thor, Debra and Melody, are engaged in the process of evaluating the usefulness, durability, and/or fun of the product. We want each of our products to be useful, accessible, affordable, and, whenever possible, fun! Our inventory is constantly changing, so a visit to us is never the same experience twice! Your Name Here 4 of 24 Sponsorship Packages currently available. Top Tech Tidbits is the world's leading adaptive technology publication that reaches over 10,000 adaptive technology professionals, educators and enthusiasts, all over the world, each week. Top Tech Tidbits offers a total of 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication. There are currently  4  of  24  Sponsorship Packages available. If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor, but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, we encourage you to join our waiting list by sending an email to: sponsorships at toptechtidbits.com ✉. Once you have joined our waiting list we will notify you the next time a current sponsor decides not to renew. You will then have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list. When available you can secure one of these packages for just $325.00 USD for the next 3 months, or save $100.00 USD and join us for the year. All Sponsorship Packages are offered on a first-come, first serve basis. Please help us to support the ongoing distribution of this publication. Consider showing your support for the world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in adaptive technology while enjoying these incredible benefits. Learn more today at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/sponsorship-information.html. ➜ Top Tech Tidbits Supporters We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support! Why: Top Tech Tidbits Supporters donate an amount of their choosing either one time or annually in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication. Benefits: All Top Tech Tidbits Supporters receive a listing within the "Our Supporters" section of each weekly newsletter, as well as a listing within the "Our Supporters" section of the Top Tech Tidbits website. In addition, all Top Tech Tidbits Supporters automatically become Premium Subscribers as well, and therefore enjoy all of the benefits that a Premium Subscription has to offer. One Time Donation: If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Supporter by making a one time donation in an amount of your choosing to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, you may utilize this donate link, or scan the QR code to the right. Annual Donation: If you would like to become a Top Tech Tidbits Supporter by making a small annual donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Top Tech Tidbits publication, we also offer the following options, all with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support. Support: In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Top Tech Tidbits possible. Platinum Supporters: Become a Top Tech Tidbits Platinum Supporter today. 1.) Gary Lee Platinum Supporter since June 25, 2020 2.) Anonymous Donation Platinum Supporter since July 9, 2020 3.) Pshon Barrett Platinum Supporter since January 28, 2021 4.) Robin Millar Platinum Supporter since April 6, 2023 Gold Supporters: Become a Top Tech Tidbits Gold Supporter today. 1.) Howard Goldstein Gold Supporter since June 4, 2020 2.) David Goldstein Gold Supporter since June 12, 2020 3.) Katherine Crohan Gold Supporter since January 14, 2021 4.) Neil Jarvis Gold Supporter since April 28, 2022 Silver Supporters: Become a Top Tech Tidbits Silver Supporter today. 1.) Timothy Gorbold Silver Supporter since July 19, 2023 Bronze Supporters: Become a Top Tech Tidbits Bronze Supporter today. 1.) Steven Wettlaufer Bronze Supporter since July 16, 2020 ➜ Top Tech Tidbits News Team Publisher: Aaron Di Blasi (Volunteer) Volunteer Publisher Since: June 4th 2020 Location: Mayfield Heights, Ohio Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (EST/EDT) (GMT-5/GMT-4) In addition to serving as Publisher for Top Tech Tidbits Aaron also serves as Publisher for the Access Information News Publication and is also the President and Senior Project Management Professional for Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. As Publisher Aaron oversees the weekly distribution of Top Tech Tidbits as a not-for-profit project on behalf of Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Aaron also serves as a Volunteer Editor to Top Tech Tidbits. Aaron Di Blasi, PMP Publisher (2020-Present) Top Tech Tidbits The Week's News in Adaptive Technology https://toptechtidbits.com 🌐 Publisher (2022-Present) Access Information News The Week's News in Access Information https://accessinformationnews.com 🌐 Sr. Project Management Professional (2006 - Present) Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Innovative ideas. Solutions that perform. https://mvsltd.com 🌐 Email: publisher at toptechtidbits.com ✉ Subscribe: https://toptechtidbits.com/subscribe Facebook: https://toptechtidbits.com/facebook X (Formerly Twitter): https://toptechtidbits.com/x LinkedIn: https://toptechtidbits.com/linkedin RSS Feed: https://toptechtidbits.com/rss Donate: https://toptechtidbits.com/donate Sponsorship Information: https://toptechtidbits.com/sponsor Archive Search: https://toptechtidbits.com/search A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication: https://mvsltd.com Editorial Contributor: John Hanlin (Volunteer) Volunteer Editor Since: June 4th 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 Publication and is also an attorney-at-law specializing in long-term disability claims for blind and visually impaired persons. John is also a long-time contractor and member of the Board of Trustees at Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. John Hanlin, Esq. Editor (2020-Present) Top Tech Tidbits The Week's News in Adaptive Technology https://toptechtidbits.com 🌐 Editor (2022-Present) Access Information News The Week's News in Access Information https://accessinformationnews.com 🌐 Board of Trustees (2006 - Present) Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Innovative ideas. Solutions that perform. https://mvsltd.com 🌐 Email: editors at toptechtidbits.com ✉ Subscribe: https://toptechtidbits.com/subscribe Facebook: https://toptechtidbits.com/facebook X (Formerly Twitter): https://toptechtidbits.com/x LinkedIn: https://toptechtidbits.com/linkedin RSS Feed: https://toptechtidbits.com/rss Donate: https://toptechtidbits.com/donate Sponsorship Information: https://toptechtidbits.com/sponsor Archive Search: https://toptechtidbits.com/search A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication: https://mvsltd.com Editorial Contributor: Jenna Lang (Volunteer) Volunteer Editor Since: June 4th 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 Publication and runs her own Digital Marketing Firm. 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 (2020-Present) Top Tech Tidbits The Week's News in Adaptive Technology https://toptechtidbits.com 🌐 Editor (2022-Present) Access Information News The Week's News in Access Information https://accessinformationnews.com 🌐 Project Management Professional (2022 - Present) Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Innovative ideas. Solutions that perform. https://mvsltd.com 🌐 Email: editors at toptechtidbits.com ✉ Subscribe: https://toptechtidbits.com/subscribe Facebook: https://toptechtidbits.com/facebook X (Formerly Twitter): https://toptechtidbits.com/x LinkedIn: https://toptechtidbits.com/linkedin RSS Feed: https://toptechtidbits.com/rss Donate: https://toptechtidbits.com/donate Sponsorship Information: https://toptechtidbits.com/sponsor Archive Search: https://toptechtidbits.com/search A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication: https://mvsltd.com Editorial Contributor: Stephen (Alex) Marositz (Volunteer) Editor Since: October 7th 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 an 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 Adaptive Technology https://toptechtidbits.com 🌐 Accessible Technology Coordinator California State University, Dominguez Hills https://csudh.edu 🌐 Email: editors at toptechtidbits.com ✉ Subscribe: https://toptechtidbits.com/subscribe Facebook: https://toptechtidbits.com/facebook X (Formerly Twitter): https://toptechtidbits.com/x LinkedIn: https://toptechtidbits.com/linkedin RSS Feed: https://toptechtidbits.com/rss Donate: https://toptechtidbits.com/donate Sponsorship Information: https://toptechtidbits.com/sponsor Archive Search: https://toptechtidbits.com/search A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication: https://mvsltd.com Editorial Contributor: Ben Moxey (Volunteer) Editor Since: January 1st 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 Adaptive Technology https://toptechtidbits.com 🌐 Access and Technology Advisor Guide Dogs, New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory (NSW/ACT) https://nsw.guidedogs.com.au 🌐 Email: editors at toptechtidbits.com ✉ Subscribe: https://toptechtidbits.com/subscribe Facebook: https://toptechtidbits.com/facebook X (Formerly Twitter): https://toptechtidbits.com/x LinkedIn: https://toptechtidbits.com/linkedin RSS Feed: https://toptechtidbits.com/rss Donate: https://toptechtidbits.com/donate Sponsorship Information: https://toptechtidbits.com/sponsor Archive Search: https://toptechtidbits.com/search A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication: https://mvsltd.com Editorial Contributor: David Woodbridge (Volunteer) Volunteer Editorial Contributor 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. X (Formerly Twitter): @dwoodbridge Mastodon: woody at dragonscave.space iSee Podcast: https://davidwoodbr.podbean.com Vision Australia Radio Talking Tech: https://omny.fm/shows/talking-tech-vision-australia-radio 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 Editorial Contributor (2023-Present) Top Tech Tidbits The Week's News in Adaptive Technology https://toptechtidbits.com 🌐 Editorial Contributor (2023-Present) Access Information News The Week's News in Access Information https://accessinformationnews.com 🌐 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. https://www.visionaustralia.org/ 🌐 Email: editor at toptechtidbits.com ✉ Subscribe: https://toptechtidbits.com/subscribe Facebook: https://toptechtidbits.com/facebook X (Formerly Twitter): https://toptechtidbits.com/x LinkedIn: https://toptechtidbits.com/linkedin RSS Feed: https://toptechtidbits.com/rss Donate: https://toptechtidbits.com/donate Sponsorship Information: https://toptechtidbits.com/sponsor Archive Search: https://toptechtidbits.com/search A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication: https://toptechtidbits.com ➜ Subscription Information ABOUT: Founded in 2004, Top Tech Tidbits is a leading Adaptive Technology publication that reaches over 10,000 assistive technology professionals, educators and enthusiasts each week. Sign up here. Review the archive here. Adaptive Technology refers to items that are specifically designed for people with disabilities. 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