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

[Top Tech Tidbits]

Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, July 27, 2023 - Volume 921 Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, July 27, 2023 - Volume 921 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/tidbits2023/07272023/. Share: Share this volume of Top Tech Tidbits on Facebook: http://bit.ly/sharetidbits921. 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: 10,958 Opt-In Subscribers were sent this issue via email. 183 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email. This Week's Featured Advertisement: 6 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 and Glidance. 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.) Why Doesn't Apple Want You To Track Your Dog With An AirTag? | iMore Should you track your dog with an AirTag? Let's face it, we know you're going to do it anyway: https://www.imore.com/why-doesnt-apple-want-you-track-your-dog-airtag B.) Microsoft Releases Its Own System Tuning App for Windows 10, 11 File this under, 'What took you so long, Microsoft?!' https://www.extremetech.com/computing/microsoft-releases-its-own-system-tuning-app-for-windows-10-11 C.) iOS 17 Solves 'You Need To Unlock Your iPhone First' Accessibility Hurdle | 9to5Mac iOS 17 has solved one of the biggest accessibility hurdles for iPhone users with limited movement: the dreaded 'You need to unlock your iPhone first' message: https://9to5mac.com/2023/07/19/you-need-to-unlock-your-iphone/ D.) Bing Versus Bard on Reasons Not To Make Software Accessible | The Idea Place | Kelly Ford I believe in making software accessible. I also believe in understanding AI technology and how it handles various questions. Today I asked Microsoft's Bing and Google's Bard to give me 10 reasons not to make software accessible. The answers were revealing: https://theideaplace.net/bing-versus-bard-on-reasons-not-to-make-software-accessible/ E.) Israeli Accessibility Startup Right Hear Wins Social Impact Contest RightHear was founded in 2015 and is headquartered in Ra'anana in central Israel. Its accessibility solution is installed in more than 2,300 venues in Israel and worldwide. The small self-powered sensor utilizes Bluetooth technology to alert users of their surroundings via app: https://www.israel21c.org/israeli-accessibility-startup-wins-social-impact-contest/ 2) Sponsorship Package Updates Availability: There are 6 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. Please Join Us: If you would like to receive a perfectly formatted and searchable Word Document with each of the 60 Most Clicked Tidbits of the last 3 months listed neatly within it, please consider joining us today for just $1 a month: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/premium-subscribers.html 4) Sponsored Tidbits Now Available Use Sponsored Tidbits to reach the access community when you need to. Whether you are a current Sponsor or not. Drive traffic to your access product and service announcements, events, updates or fundraisers using this incredibly cost-effective and easy-to-use advertisement tool. 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) ChatGPT Announces Android App Announcing ChatGPT for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.openai.chatgpt&pli=1 B) ChatGPT Can Now Remember Who You Are And What You Want | The Verge Publisher (Di Blasi): Now this is the beginning of a truly "personal" assistant. Very excited! The Verge: With new 'Custom Instructions' you might not have to tell OpenAI's chatbot your life story every time you have a question. But do you know what you want the bot to know? https://www.theverge.com/2023/7/20/23801520/chatgpt-openai-custom-instructions-chatbot 7) Apple Updates Skip this Tidbit to skip all updates on Apple. A) Apple Releases iOS 16.6 and iPadOS 16.6 With Bug Fixes and Security Updates | AppleVis Apple has released iOS 16.6 and iPadOS 16.6 to the public. While these updates seem to be relatively minor, they do bring a few notable bug fixes for Braille and VoiceOver users: https://www.applevis.com/blog/apple-releases-ios-166-ipados-166-bug-fixes-security-updates B) Apple Says It Would Remove iMessage And FaceTime In The Uk Rather Than Break End-To-End Encryption | 9to5Mac Publisher (Di Blasi): I applaud Apple for standing up in this manner. And this isn't the first time. There are many, many things that legislators still do not understand about technology that continues to force them into antiquated thinking. Many in tech believe the only way to get them to understand these new paradigms is to leave them behind. As the saying goes, "you don't miss what you've got, until it's gone." 9to5Mac: Facing possible legislation that would require messaging services to offer back doors in end-to-end encryption, Apple is saying it would rather remove apps like iMessage and FaceTime entirely from the UK market: https://9to5mac.com/2023/07/20/apple-imessage-facetime-remove-security-law/ C) Apple's Headset Hinges on Apps, But Don't Expect Developers to Flock to It | Bloomberg Third-party apps will be crucial to the success of the Vision Pro, but the pricey and niche nature of the device means that developers may not quickly flock to it. Also: Apple races to build generative AI tools to keep up with the latest offerings from OpenAI and others and is planning a major change for buying products at its stores: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2023-07-23/apple-vision-pro-will-developers-sell-visionos-apps-for-the-3-499-device-lkfg5b1l 8) JAWS with Microsoft Office Power Tip: How To Navigate Track Changes in Microsoft Word | Freedom Scientific Track Changes is a feature in Word that allows you to view changes made to a document by you or other users. Word tracks changes to both text and formatting, and you have the option to accept or reject them. These changes appear in different colors or styles to separate them from other text. JAWS will read the changes in your document as you navigate with reading commands such as the ARROW keys. You can also opt to show all changes in the Reviewing Pane: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/181.html 9) I Am A Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor. Can You Please Help Me To Understand My Advertising Options? | Aaron Di Blasi | Top Tech Tidbits As Top Tech Tidbits has grown, so too have the advertising options available to Sponsors. Here I will break down all of the options available to you if you are currently a Top Tech Tidbits Sponsor: https://www.toptechtidbits.com/180.html 10) How To Install The AirPods Pro Beta And Try The Slick New Adaptive Audio Feature | 9to5Mac Apple unveiled its exciting new Adaptive Audio feature for AirPods Pro 2 in June that blends its Adaptive Transparency with Active Noise Cancellation and more. However, testing out the feature is a bit trickier than just installing the iOS 17 beta. Here's how to install the AirPods beta to try out the great new capabilities: https://9to5mac.com/2023/07/21/install-airpods-beta-how-to/ 11) Labeling Elements on iOS and iPadOS: Uses and How To Do It | Curly | AppleVis There will always be apps with one or more unlabeled elements or elements that have unclear labels. When we encounter an app of this nature, we may resign ourselves to deleting the app and maybe contacting the developer and hoping they'll fix it, but sometimes you may want to take a step further and label the unlabeled elements. This has come in very useful for me and today I'd like to tell you all how to do it so that you all can experience it's benefits too: https://www.applevis.com/guides/labeling-elements-ios-ipados-uses-how-do-it 12) Is it Time to Update Your Drivers? | Ask Bob Rankin Publisher (Di Blasi): It is very difficult to overstate the importance of having the most current drivers installed on your system at all times. Every single piece of hardware that attaches to your PC, inside or out, requires a "driver" to "talk" to the operating system. Keeping these drivers consistently updated can be a challenging task, even for the technically initiated, without a plan and some serious commitment. Especially if you built your PC yourself. For PC builders you will need to check the driver status of each piece of connected hardware individually. And consistently. Yes. Windows tries to take care of this, and does okay for the most part, but for systems where performance is critical users still opt to update the drivers themselves. One way out of this is to buy your PC from a trusted OEM manufacturer such as Dell, or the like. I have always used Dell. And like other OEMs Dell has a single program, called "Support Assist" that monitors all of the drivers for your system, including BIOS updates, because we all know how to install those manually? Right? I just run "Support Assist" every night along with Windows update and it keeps everything updated for me. "Support Assist" is free, though they will try to sell you on the premium version. Ask Bob Rankin: One reader said "I am not even sure what a driver is, but if everything seems to be working fine, do I really need to update them?" So let's start by defining the term. Device drivers, more commonly called "drivers," are small programs that act as "translators" between your operating system and the hardware devices inside (or attached to) your computer. Every hardware device needs a driver. Your printer, scanner, mouse, keyboard, hard drive, sound card and network adapter are all examples of devices that require a software driver in order to respond to commands from the operating system: https://askbobrankin.com/tip_is_it_time_to_update_your_drivers.html 13) Everything You Should Know About The Launchers on Android | Erisilebilir Android Android device manufacturers attach great importance to the user interface as well as the physical composition of the devices. The experience provided by each device must always outclass the competitor's product in the same segment. Otherwise, if we take a look at the physical frames, all of them are bar type phones, all of them have similar cameras, they can all make phone calls in some way. At this point, manufacturers aspire after attracting the attention of users with their unique touches on the devices they release. From this point of view, the user interface of the devices and the home screen that welcomes the user when the device's screen is unlocked is called Launcher. In this article, we will review exactly what launchers can do and cannot do, and which manufacturers use which launchers: https://accessibleandroid.com/everything-you-should-know-about-the-launchers-on-android/ 14) Framework Laptop 13 (2023) Review | PCMag | David Goldfield | Tech-VI List This may be of interest to some subscribers as some of the hardware from the Optima Braille Computer from Orbit Research will originate from Framework. I am uncertain as to whether the Optima will be based off of this particular unit: https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/4643 15) Google Upgrades ChromeOS Accessibility With Image To Text Conversion For PDFs | Android Police For as many incredible things that our phones and computers can do, it's easy to forget that not everyone's able to interact with these systems in the same way. Google has thankfully been a trailblazer when it comes to accessibility, including making web content available to everyone. Chrome's reading mode and PDF viewer are both part of this commitment, and can be invaluable to those with visual impairments. Now a new image-to-text feature in Chrome on ChromeOS will help screen readers work with PDFs, even when images lack alt-text descriptions: https://www.androidpolice.com/google-chrome-image-to-text/ 16) Windows 11 23H2 Update Coming This Fall, Here's What's New As Microsoft prepares for the imminent rollout of Windows 11 23H2, they've been developing various innovative features designed to improve user experience, streamline workflows, and introduce next-generation functionalities. This article will explore Windows 11 23H2 features, from dynamic lighting to Windows Copilot upgrades: https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/microsoft/windows-11-23h2-update-coming-this-fall-heres-whats-new/ 17) Testing Sites And Apps With Blind Users: A Detailed Cheat Sheet | Slava Shestopalov | Medium: Subscription Required Yeah, plugins and services for checking accessibility are great, but have you ever observed a real person with a disability walk through your site or app? While compliance with accessibility checklists is essential, it doesn't necessarily mean a pleasant experience. That's why live sessions can give you lots of priceless insights: https://medium.com/design-bridges/accessibility-testing-babe2d84e817 18) Accessibility Features Make Mailchimp Work for Everyone | Accessibility Blog Publisher (Di Blasi): As the Sr. Project Management Professional for a digital marketing agency that has been providing compliant email marketing services to clients all over the world for more than 25 years now, I have a few things to say about the "accessibility" of MailChimp, versus one of its rivals, Constant Contact, which is the platform that we use to send out this and every other newsletter that we manage on behalf of our client base. So the question becomes, why do the top two email newsletters in accessibility in the world today choose to use Constant Contact over MailChimp? One simple reason. Because for all of the "accessibility" features that MailChimp boasts, and there are many, there is one incredibly access-crucial functionality missing. MailChimp does NOT allow you to send an email newsletter using your own custom HTML and CSS. That's right. You have to use one of their templates. Which are mostly accessible. But no template can be as accessible as custom HTML and CSS. The ability to send email newsletters using custom HTML and CSS templates that you have written specifically for your audience, and continue to tweak as needed, is now the gold standard for email newsletter accessibility and user convenience. Accessibility Blog: In the ever-evolving email marketing landscape, ensuring your messages reach and engage a wide range of audiences is crucial. A vital yet often underappreciated component of this process is accessibility, which guarantees that individuals of all abilities can seamlessly interact with your content. In this article, we'll focus on Mailchimp, a leading email marketing service, and discuss its various accessibility features that can help you create campaigns that truly resonate with everyone: https://www.accessibility.com/blog/accessibility-features-make-mailchimp-work-for-everyone 19) What's New In Google Accessibility | Episode 2 | July 14, 2023 | YouTube Welcome back to What's New In Accessibility At Google! Hosted by Laura Allen, Head of Strategy & Programs, Accessibility & Disability Inclusion, our latest episode shares some highlights from Google I/O and discusses new features we're launching in products like Google Maps, Android, Chrome, and more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IokTpA9iB58 20) Announcing BrailleBlaster 2.1.0-beta | Tech-VI List https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/4614 21) Overview of HaptiBraille Communicator The HaptiBraille allows users to speak in a synthesized voice and hear the speech of the interlocutor. "It is designed to solve the communication problem due to the fact that the interlocutors can use accustomed ways of communication. For those who can see and hear, this is spoken language, and for those who cannot see and hear, this is Braille:" https://www.eastersealstech.com/2023/07/05/haptibraille-communicator/ 22) NVDA Testimonial Video Montage | July 2023 | NVDA Some time ago, we asked users to share their thoughts on NVDA, and they DELIVERED! The testimonials we received from around the world perfectly demonstrate our goal of equal access to technology for blind and vision impaired people worldwide: https://www.nvaccess.org/post/nvda-testimonial-video-montage-july-2023/ 23) Sony's New Compact Camera Brings Photography To The Visually Impaired The new retinal projection camera uses Sony's HX99 zoom compact and a special viewfinder developed by QD Laser: https://www.digitalcameraworld.com/news/sonys-new-compact-camera-brings-photography-to-the-visually-impaired 24) Vibrating Haptic Suits Give Deaf People A New Way To Feel Live Music | NPR When Daniel Belquer was first asked to join a team to make a better live music experience for deaf and hard-of-hearing people, he was struck by how they had developed work-arounds to enjoy concerts. "What they were doing at the time was holding balloons to feel the vibrations through their fingers, or go barefoot and flip the speakers facing the floor," Belquer said. He thought the team could make something to help hard-of-hearing people enjoy live music even more with the technology now available. "Like, it's not cool. It's kind of limiting. We could do better than that:" https://www.npr.org/2023/07/17/1186173942/vibrating-haptic-suits-give-deaf-people-a-new-way-to-feel-live-music 25) Introducing the Redesigned Envision App! Introducing the Redesigned Envision App. Revamped with a focus on features. Easily switch between your favorite features, and personalize the menu to your liking. Make the Envision App truly yours: https://www.letsenvision.com/blog/introducing-the-redesigned-envision-app 26) Duxbury Systems Announces DBT 12.7 | Tech-VI List https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/4638 27) LibreOffice 7.5.5 Community Available For Download https://blog.documentfoundation.org/blog/2023/07/20/libreoffice-7-5-5-community-available-for-download/ 28) FAST Is The Latest Trend In Streaming TV, But What Is It? Save money with free live streaming TV: https://www.reviewgeek.com/158934/fast-is-the-latest-trend-in-streaming-tv-but-what-is-it/ 30) Xbox Will Soon Let Players Map Keyboard Keys To Controller Buttons Xbox is preparing the ability to map keyboard keys to controller buttons in the future. The new feature has been added to the latest Alpha and Alpha Skip-Ahead builds of the operating system, which are currently only available to members of the Xbox Insider programme. This is generally done to test the feature and make sure it's working as well as possible before it's rolled out to all Xbox users in a future console system update: https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/xbox-will-soon-let-players-map-keyboard-keys-to-controller-buttons/ ➜ 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: July 31, 2023 | Survey to Improve Outreach and Communication with Transit Users with Disabilities | Ron Brooks, CEO | Accessible Avenue I am working with an industry colleague and friend, Kristen Joyner, on a book detailing strategies that public transit agencies and transportation providers can use to improve the effectiveness and equity of their outreach and communication with people with disabilities. We are inviting you to complete this survey in order to help us better understand the ways within which individuals with disabilities engage with transit agencies and paratransit providers (referred to as “public engagement”; how agencies are doing, and how they can do better. The survey includes a total of 17 multiple choice questions and should take about ten minutes to complete. Throughout the survey, there are opportunities to make additional comments, and we invite you to do so. At the end of the survey is a section to gather optional demographic information that will help us learn more about people who complete the survey. If you choose to answer the demographic questions, you will be entered into a drawing for one of five $25 Amazon gift cards. This is in appreciation for you taking the time to provide us with your valuable insights. The survey is located at the following link, and it is designed to be accessible for people using assistive technology: https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/7399907/Transit-User-Survey ➜ Featured Podcast Episodes Submit your access-related Podcast Episode for consideration within this section using this form: https://toptechtidbits.com/submit-podcast-episode. July 5, 2023 | That Real Blind Tech Show Episode 133: NFB In Person Recap: Not Today, Not Tomorrow, Not Ever Join Brian, Ed, and David Goldstein as they record from the NFB Conference in Houston. They discuss their time at this year's NFB Conference, Brian and Ed's Flight for Sight adventures, take aways from this year's conference, and the interesting people they have met in Houston: July 14, 2023 | Ask Sharky: What's New in June 2023 | Freedom Scientific Training Podcast Listen to this live recorded session of Ask Sharky, as we dive into updates to JAWS, Fusion, and ZoomText in 2023: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-sharky-whats-new-in-june-2023/id1521340640?i=1000621195626 July 20, 2023 | Civilian Accessible Radio | LBPD TUG This month's TUG showcases a review of how visually impaired consumers can use accessible options within the Family Radio Service (FRS),Citizen's band radio (CB), General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS), and amateur radio (HAM) programs.We will discuss what these programs are, what licenses and equipment you need for each, and their relative accessibility: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/maryland-state-library-agency/id1633488438?i=1000621774194 July 21, 2023 | Navigate and Manage Windows 11 with JAWS | Freedom Scientific Training Podcast Are you new to Windows 11? Looking for ways to manage applications and files more efficiently? In this session, we provide an overview of the Windows 11 interface, and show you how to: Access settings Create and manage folders Navigate File Explorer Navigate the Control Panel Add/remove applications Set default applications: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/navigate-and-manage-windows-11-with-jaws/id1521340640?i=1000621944738 July 21, 2023 | ThunderCast Podcast #3: Behind The Scenes Of Supernova Hello Thunderbird family, and welcome back to a long-overdue episode of the ThunderCast! Ryan, Alex, and Jason get together to talk about the new features and improvements in Thunderbird 115 “Supernova.” But they also share WHY those features were developed, and what's being worked on right now: https://blog.thunderbird.net/2023/07/thundercast-podcast-3-behind-the-scenes-of-supernova/ July 21, 2023 | Technically Working: Traveling And New Networks On this episode of “Technically Working,” we catch up on recent events since our last recording at a convention. Damashe shares his experience of a broken cane and contracting COVID-19, while Michael talks about his trip for the ACB National Convention. We discuss using the Aira app for navigation at airports, travel apps like TripIt and Flighty, our new router setup, and alternative transportation methods. Overall, we're happy with our network setup and appreciate our listeners' support. Stay tuned for more episodes and potential guest interviews: https://pnc.st/s/unmute-presents-on-acb-communi/9f2ce7da/tw18-traveling-and-new-networks/transcript July 22, 2023 | Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 137: Conclusion of the Play Store Exploration and the Nothing 2 Phone Unboxing We first inform listeners that our YouTube Channel has crossed 1000 subscriptions. Thank you for subscribing and sharing the channel with friends. We then conclude the Play Store exploration series and talk about Family Management and Device certification settings. Then the Nothing 2 Phone is unboxed and we comment about it. Stay tuned for the review next week: https://youtube.com/blindandroidusers/videos July 23, 2023 | Unmute Presents: Publishing Your Podcast Episode: A Step-by-Step Guide In this chat, Michael shows you how to use Pinecast to get your podcast out there. He breaks down all the steps, like uploading your MP3 and adding notes. Also, there's a cool live call every Tuesday in the ACB community where you can get your questions answered. You can even replay past episodes. It's all super easy and they'd love to hear from you on Unmute Presents: https://pnc.st/s/unmute-presents-on-acb-communi/ab92779a/publishing-your-podcast-episode-a-step-by-step-guide XX) Living Blindfully Episode 240: An Apple Podcasts Connectgate Update, Uber Frustrations, And Author Of The Country Of The Blind, Andrew Leland https://www.livingblindfully.com/episode-240an-apple-podcasts-connectgate-update-uber-frustrations-and-author-of-the-country-of-the-blind-andrew-leland/ July 25, 2023 | Unleashing the Power of Email on the BlindShell Classic 2 In the episode "Unleashing the Power of Email on the BlindShell Classic 2," the host demonstrates how to navigate, read, and compose emails on the BlindShell Classic 2 device. Tips are shared on opening, manipulating, and reading messages, as well as composing new emails. The limitations of the email client are discussed, along with suggestions for improvements. Listen to the full episode for a comprehensive guide on using email on the BlindShell Classic 2: https://pnc.st/s/shell-phone-show/cbe466bf/unleashing-the-power-of-email-on-the-blindshell-classic-2 July 26, 2023 | Eyes on Success Episode 2330: Navigating the Transition to Sight Loss In his new book "The Country of the Blind: A Memoir At the End of Sight", author and audio producer Andrew Leland chronicles his slow progression from sightedness to blindness due to Retinitis Pigmentosa. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Andrew about the book, his transition through various stages of sight loss, and what he learned along the way: http://www.eyesonsuccess.net/show_notes_2330.htm July 27, 2023 | Top Tech Tidbits Podcast for Thursday, July 27, 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://apple.co/3ODv8oV ➜ 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. July 27, 2023 | International Ally User Group Meeting 7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT Join us in the July meeting of the International Ally User Group. We'll find out how one university is working with students to correct video captions. We'll also learn how three institutions took part in "Fix your content day" and learn their strategies for encouraging staff participation. Join us on Thursday 27 July 2023 at 07:00 PDT / 10:00 EDT / 15:00 BST/ 16:00 CEST / 17:00 TRT / 18:00 GST. Session synopses: Students as video caption editors. David Morgan, Digital Education Developer, University of Bristol In this session, David will discuss some of the evolving strategies used to develop The University of Bristol's captioning service, to get closer to meeting accessibility regulations. He will reflect upon his experiences of employing both undergraduate and postgraduate student caption editors and compare them with a professional caption editing service. Fix Your Content Day — Updates from the Winners In this session, the winners from the Ally Fix Your Content Day (FYCD) event will share the approaches their institutions took to this event. They will explain how they support FYCD, encouraged their faculty to participate and reflect on their success. Coastal Pines Technical College. Georgia Piedmont Technical College. Ogeechee Technical College. Find sign-up and joining details on the Ally Community site: https://usergroup.ally.ac/content/perma?id=59789 July 27, 2023 | Understand, Test, Solve: Responsive Design | TPGi 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT Presenter: Aaron Farber, Senior Accessibility Platform Consultant. TPGi's Accessibility Resource Center (ARC) platform empowers teams to solve common accessibility issues while growing their understanding over time. The monthly “Understand, Test, and Solve” webinar series covers fundamental concepts in accessibility. Attendees learn how to address the set of WCAG Success Criteria for each concept. Over the course of this series, teams achieve full WCAG coverage in their testing. So far, we've covered: Keyboard and Focus. Color Contrast. Page Structure and Navigation. Semantics. ARIA. The final webinar in this series covers responsive design — a design approach to make websites and apps responsive to user preferences and device capabilities. This webinar explains how accessibility guidelines are more about supporting people with low-vision and color-blindness to apply their own formatting to a site and less about supporting mobile devices. Each attendee gains a clear understanding of what issues in responsive design constitute a WCAG failure. The objective is to clear up confusion about page magnification, text magnification, and pinch-to-zoom. This session is 30 minutes. Stay after the call for our 30-minute Q&A: https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-july-27-at-12pm-et-understand-test-solve-responsive-design/ August 1, 2023 | Creating Accessible Social Media Content | TPGi 9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT Presenter: Leilani Mason, Solutions Engineer. Social media is a great tool to form connections, advertise, learn, and be entertained. In order for social media to be inclusive, it is critical that social media content is accessible. This talk will guide you through simple ways to make your social media content more accessible to screen reader users and the Deaf/HoH community. Attendees will learn about best practices for creating accessible social media content, including best practices for: Alternative text. Captions. ASCII art. Hashtags. Additionally, attendees will learn how to utilize the accessibility features built into social media platforms through step-by-step tutorials and review ways that users can go beyond built-in features. Register today: https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-august-1-at-12pm-et-creating-accessible-social-media-content/ August 2, 2023 | Easy Portable Reading — The omniReader (ACVREP CE Approved, Assistive Technology Webinar) | Access Ingenuity 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT The omniReader ® allows visually impaired users to easily read printed text by pressing a single button. You can follow the magnified text in high-contrast colors on the built-in screen or listen as the omniReader reads the text out loud. You can also use the screen to instantly magnify objects and text and display them in high-contrast colors to see them more clearly. Thanks to its lightweight design, built-in handle, and long battery life, you can pick it up and use it wherever you want — at home, at the office, and even on the go. Join Ian Ramos from Access Ingenuity and Joseph McDaniel from Vispero as they explain this machine's critical assistive role to the visually impaired. 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: Feature walkthrough of the omniReader. Understand the primary and secondary assistive benefits. How the omniReader can be an effective reading tool: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84489326672?pwd=aHgxdUFlZG1yYWoxb3puWTM5Z0NLZz09&mc_cid=1c5c3cbecd&mc_eid=90429c1885#success August 8, 2023 | Disability Awareness and Etiquette | California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) 1PM PT, 2PM MT, 3PM CT, 4PM ET, 8PM GMT Become disability aware and learn how to engage with persons with disabilities in this insightful two-hour webinar. Who Should Attend? People who make hiring decisions. People who manage people. People who work with people with disabilities. People who provide services to people with disabilities. Anyone who values diversity and inclusion. ASL interpreting and real time captioning will be provided during the event. Brought to you by the Department of Rehabilitation Disability Access Services (DAS): https://dor-ca-gov.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_jBntGDIxSumFWuWHLIA6Ig#/registration?os=iphone August 9, 2023 | Create Source Files: MS Word to PDF Remediation (Digital Accessibility Webinar) | Access Ingenuity 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT Microsoft Word offers many tools that make remediation in PDF quicker and more successful. Join Rachel Reeves from Access Ingenuity to learn tips, tricks, and best practices for creating your documents in Microsoft Word with the intent to convert them to PDF. Learning Outcomes: Discover best practices in formatting standard document elements. Explore the WCAG 2.1 color requirements that may apply to your content. Introduction to creating PDFs directly from Microsoft Office: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82644298230?pwd=alhMWlRqb0tOS3dHNFVrSEtOam04dz09&mc_cid=1c5c3cbecd&mc_eid=90429c1885#success August 14, 2023 through August 18, 2023 | 22nd Audio Description Institute | Audio Description Associates, LLC | Audio Description Project of the American Council of the Blind 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT The American Council of the Blind's Audio Description Project announces its twenty-second Audio Description Institute, August 14-18, 2023 (Monday through Friday) from 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Eastern each day. All Virtual. Audio Description (AD) makes visual images accessible for people who are blind or have low vision. Using words that are succinct, vivid, and imaginative, media describers convey the visual image from television and film that is not fully accessible to a significant segment of the population (more than 32 million Americans experience significant vision loss). The interactive sessions are designed to provide immediate feedback and "give and take," allowing for adaptation according to a sense of participants' grasp of the material. In addition, experienced users of description are a part of the Institute's faculty, providing an important perspective throughout the sessions: https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E144393&id=86 August 16, 2023 | JAWS: Getting Help & Accessing Training Materials (Assistive Technology Webinar) | Access Ingenuity 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT Get to know the various tools, help menu options, and free training materials that already exist with JAWS. Join Ian Ramos and Marisa Church from Access Ingenuity to discover ways to get assistance with concepts, commands, exercises, additional web resources, and more. Learning Outcomes: Help tools of JAWS, including Keyboard Help and Screen Sensitive Help. Additional help from the help menu includes the manual, web resources, and free training. Free training web resources include the Freedom Scientific Training YouTube channel, Free Webinars Training page, Surf's Up Training website, etc: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86019597044?pwd=aFdFUzhQWWFDTkRMOTdCUXRGRVZJQT09&mc_cid=1c5c3cbecd&mc_eid=90429c1885 August 22, 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 August 23, 2023 | How to Create Accessible Videos (Digital Accessibility Webinar) | Access Ingenuity 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT Do you create videos for YouTube or other platforms? This presentation will review the components of accessible videos and how to make them. Join Michael Parker from Access Ingenuity to learn about creating accessible videos, including captions, audio descriptions, and descriptive text transcripts. Learning Outcomes: Learn the main elements of an accessible video to comply with WCAG 2.1 Guidelines. Learn how to edit captions on YouTube. Learn how to design videos so that they meet audio description requirements. Learn the basics of creating descriptive text transcripts: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85965137306?pwd=R3dDeUJZaEp3Q2xJbmpmRkxUVTNKUT09&mc_cid=1c5c3cbecd&mc_eid=90429c1885#success August 30, 2023 | JAWS: Testing for Website Accessibility (Assistive Technology Webinar) | Access Ingenuity 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT An essential part of ensuring that a website is accessible is to test the site with a screen reader. Join Michael Parker (Web Accessibility Specialist and DHS Trusted Tester) and Marisa Church (Assistive Technology Specialist and Expert Screen Reader) as they demonstrate how to test a website with the JAWS screen reader. Learning Outcomes: Understand the importance of testing websites with a screen reader. Learn how to test a website with a screen reader. Learn the difference between using the Say All command and Tab to navigate a webpage. Learn about basic JAWS settings required for testing. How to use the Virtual HTML Features and Text Viewer in JAWS for quicker testing: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88477062027?pwd=c0lPNVdYSmtJakxLUUVpekZjZzd6UT09&mc_cid=1c5c3cbecd&mc_eid=90429c1885 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 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 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 | 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 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: 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: HURRY — Stock Up on WayTags Before Prices Increase on June 1! WayAround is the best way to label things if you're blind or have low vision. You just need the free mobile app and some WayTags® to label items in the kitchen, garden, closet, office & more. Prices on WayTags will increase on June 1, so stock up today on your favorite tags. 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: Order Now! Get The Most Powerful Android Notetaker Available, the BrailleSense 6 From HIMS. It's Simply The Best. The time is now to get your all-new BrailleSense 6 notetaker, the most powerful and user-friendly notetaker on the market. Running Android 10, with 128 GB of Storage, 6 GB of Memory, and an 8-Core CPU, the BrailleSense 6 is the ultimate braille notetaker. Learn more today at: https://hims-inc.com/product/braillesense-6/ 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! Sponsor: A. T. 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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: 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. Your Name Here 0 of 18 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. 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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. Adaptive Technology is a subset of Assistive Technology. Adaptive Technology often refers specifically to electronic and information technology access. Top Tech Tidbits is a Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication. Publisher: Aaron Di Blasi. Contributing Editors: John Hanlin, Jenna Lang, Stephen (Alex) Marositz, Ben Moxey, and David Woodbridge. Top Tech Tidbits is a sponsor and reader supported publication. RELEASE SCHEDULE: Top Tech Tidbits is released every Thursday morning at 4:00 AM ET. SUBSCRIBE: Do you, a friend, or colleague wish to receive the Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter? If so, please use or pass along our CAPTCHA-free sign-up link, which is: https://toptechtidbits.com/subscribe. You can also subscribe to receive the Top Tech Tidbits Newsletter on the Top Tech Tidbits Website at: https://www.toptechtidbits.com. Either of these methods will provide you with an accessibly friendly and secure medium through which you can subscribe to our mailing list. 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