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

[Top Tech Tidbits]

Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, February 22, 2024 - Volume 951 Read in Browser: https://toptechtidbits.com/tidbits2024/02222024/ Top Tech Tidbits for Thursday, February 22, 2024 - Volume 951 The Week's News in Access Technology 📰 🧑‍🦯 🦯 🦮 🧏 🦱 ♿ 🧑‍🦽 🧑‍🦼 🦾 🦿 Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access technology. A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication Spam Filter: You have received this email from Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. because you are subscribed to receive the Top Tech Tidbits weekly 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 today: enews at toptechtidbits.com 📧️. Subscribers: 13,751 Opt-In Subscribers were sent this issue via email. 175 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email. This Week's Featured Advertisement: Top Tech Tidbits Spins Off Coverage of AI News And Trends Into New Weekly Newsletter: Welcome To AI-Weekly Dearest readers and friends, I am excited to announce a new milestone in our journey together. The launch of the new AI-Weekly website and newsletter. Those readers that I communicate with on a regular basis will not be surprised by this announcement. AI has taken not just the access technology world by storm, but also the mainstream world right along with it. And we want to be there to cover it for you. Don't worry, Top Tech Tidbits will continue to publish AI articles related to access technology. But the new frontier of AI is no longer about just accessibility. Human augmentation now wants to be part of the conversation. And there is simply no room for that conversation within the current Top Tech Tidbits newsletter. And so, ladies and gentleman, I give you, AI-Weekly. Full announcement here. — Aaron Di Blasi, Publisher, Top Tech Tidbits Dear Rolando, Submit a Tidbit for free here, with timing and placement determined by our editors. Submit a Sponsored Tidbit here, with timing and placement determined by you. 1.) Top 5 Most Clicked Tidbits From Last Week A.) Unpacking the Accessibility & Future of Audiobooks | Access Tech Live | 2/6/24 Access Tech Live delves into the world of audiobooks with guests from The Audiobook Review podcast. The discussion covered the benefits of audiobooks for disabled individuals, the debate on audiobooks versus reading, and the future of AI-generated audiobooks. B.) JAWS Power Tip: How To Announce The Time (Including Seconds) in JAWS | FreedomScientific.com | 2/15/24 In JAWS, pressing INSERT+F12 announces the current time using hours and minutes. However, there are situations, such as a job that has strict clock-in and clock-out requirements, where more accurate detail is needed. C.) 8 Best Mobile Games for Blind and Visually Impaired Players: 2024 Edition | Freek van Welsenis | Hable Explore the "8 Best Mobile Games for Blind and Visually Impaired Players" for 2024. These games utilize binaural or 3D audio for an immersive experience, with titles like "A Blind Legend," "Blind Drive," and "The Vale: Shadow of the Crown." The list also features "RS Games," "Feer," "Frequency Missing," "Sryth," and "AudioWizards." Additionally, the blog introduces the Hable One, a device enhancing game control for visually impaired players. D.) AI-Powered Robot Guide Dogs Developed For Visually Impaired | Independent.co.uk | 2/8/24 Discover the RoboGuide, an AI-powered robotic guide dog developed by the University of Glasgow to aid the visually impaired in navigating indoor spaces. This innovative project, led by Olaoluwa Popoola, uses advanced sensors and software to learn routes and avoid obstacles, enhancing independence for millions globally. E.) Guide: Create Accessible Digital Math with MathKicker.ai Creating accessible digital math materials tends to be time consuming and often challenging for teachers of students with visual impairments and/or braillists. MathKicker.ai is a groundbreaking free web application designed to break down the barriers in math education for students who are blind or low vision. MathKicker.ai has harnessed the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to promptly convert the inaccessible page of complex mathematical expressions and formulas in less than a minute! Simply take a picture of a textbook page or worksheet or take a screenshot of a digital page or worksheet, and instantly transform the image into a fully accessible digital Word document that can be read by a screen reader or braille display. 2.) Sponsorship Packages Are you an access-based person, business or organization whose products, services or message would benefit from reaching over 13,000 access subscribers each week? 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Learn How To Track It For Free This article will outline, step-by-step, how you can get free website traffic reporting on any link to your domain (AKA domain name, website or web address) that has been published by Top Tech Tidbits since January 18, 2024, when we launched this feature. 7.) Looking For AT-Related Sales? Deals? Promotions? And Discounts? Be sure to shop the weekly Top Tech Tidbits Classified Ads section located at the very bottom of every Top Tech Tidbits weekly newsletter. Here you will find sales, deals, promotions and discounts on a wide variety of access technology products and services offered by Top Tech Tidbits Sponsors. 8.) AI Updates Skip this Tidbit to skip all updates on AI. A.) Demonstrating Be My AI: Where AI Is More Than 2 Letters To Catch Attention | 2/19/24 The Android version of be My eyes can now describe pictures from your gallery! Since its early days, Be My Eyes has proven itself as one of the most effective initiatives in the blind community, serving as a connection between blind users and volunteers from all around the world who could easily lend their eyes to help blind users accomplish various tasks. When the GPT-4 AI model was introduced, Be My Eyes announced Be My AI, an addition to the Be My Eyes app that enables image descriptions using the GPT-4 AI model. The announcement materialized soon after as a feature in the Be My Eyes on iOS, as usual. Later, the feature reached Android, lacking the essential feature of sharing images directly within the app. With the introduction of Be My Eyes 2.2 for Android, the missing sharing feature was added. Let's take a look at Be My AI and how to use it. B.) Largest Text-To-Speech AI Model Yet Shows 'Emergent Abilities' | TechCrunch.com | 2/14/24 Amazon researchers have developed BASE TTS, the largest text-to-speech model created to date, and note that it does indeed exhibit emergent qualities for natural speech articulation. Trained on 100,000 hours of speech, it surpasses models like Tortoise and VALL-E in linguistic complexity. BASE TTS, streamable and equipped with metadata streams for emotion and prosody, represents a leap in text-to-speech technology. While its emergent abilities are notable, Amazon AI cautions against assuming their exclusivity. The model's source and data remain unpublished due to potential misuse concerns. This development is significant for both accessibility and many other applications. C.) We're Revolutionizing The World Of Assistive Technology With AI | BrailleInstitute.org Dr. Ron Peterson, a vision-impaired scientist, harnesses AI to revolutionize assistive technology. He has developed AI tools for the visually impaired and now shares his expertise through workshops and courses, demonstrating AI's impact in enhancing independence and navigation for the blind. 9.) Apple Updates Skip this Tidbit to skip all updates on Apple. A.) How To Add Widgets to Your Desktop in MacOS Sonoma | Sebby | AppleVis | 2/19/24 One of the marquee features of macOS Sonoma is widgets on the desktop. The widgets can come from Mac apps, just as they could before in previous versions of macOS, where they appeared in Notification Centre. New to Sonoma, they can now also come from select iPhone apps running on your nearby iPhone. B.) Apple Vision Pro: Comprehensive Review for the Blind and Visually Impaired | The Blind Life | YouTube | 2/17/24 In this video, I put the Apple Vision Pro to the test to determine if it's a viable device for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. Through a thorough, week-long evaluation, I explore its features, accessibility options, and overall usability in various real-life situations. Join me as I delve into this cutting-edge wearable headset's capabilities and determine if it truly lives up to its potential as a game-changer for the visually impaired community. Don't miss this extensive review packed with insights and expert opinions on the Apple Vision Pro's suitability for those with visual impairments. C.) Apple Vision Pro — What's The Point? | Double Tap Video | YouTube | 2/17/24 In this episode of Double Tap, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece engage in a thought-provoking discussion about Apple's Vision Pro. They explore its implications for the visually impaired, questioning the practicality and accessibility of spatial computing. The conversation touches on the fears and possibilities that come with the transition to a more visually centered tech world, reflecting on the broader impacts of technology on accessibility. D.) Vision Pro Accessibility in the Real(ish) World | Shelly Brisbin | SixColors.com | 2/13/24 Shelly Brisbin discusses the accessibility features of Apple's Vision Pro, focusing on the "Split Braille" feature in JAWS 2024. This feature enhances the usability for visually impaired users by allowing them to view different outputs simultaneously on a braille display. Brisbin's personal experience with a Vision Pro demo reveals both innovative aspects, like the pointer control options, and challenges, such as inadequate default zoom levels and text sizes for low vision. The article highlights the potential of Vision Pro for users with various disabilities and expresses hope for its future development as a tool for visual assistance. Tips, Tutorials, Guides, Walk-Throughs and How-To's 10.) JAWS Power Tip: How To Set Focus Time in the Outlook Calendar with JAWS | FreedomScientific.com | 2/22/24 Focus Time is a feature in the Outlook calendar that allows you to block off time to complete important tasks or projects. This helps minimize distraction so you are more productive. 11.) A Simple Example, Avoid Breaking What Works in Table Functionality | TheIdeaPlace.net | Kelly Ford | 2/19/24 Opinions may differ on this, but I am of the opinion that you should not add extra instructions on the names of column headers in tables on the web. If you are going to do so, ensure it is done in a fashion that allows a screen reader to avoid announcing those instructions if the user desires not to have them communicated. 12.) BT Speak Tutorial Episode I: Product Introduction, Menu Overview, and Connecting to WiFi | Blazie Technologies | YouTube | 2/18/24 This audio is the first in a series of tutorials covering BT Speak Basic and BT Speak Pro. Tyler guides a tour of the menus interface highlighting applications and other utilities on your BT Speak. The tutorial concludes with instructions for getting your device connected to WiFi. Stay tuned for episode II, coming soon. 13.) How To Remove Paragraph Formatting in Word | Sharons-Shortcuts.ie | 2/18/24 Different paragraph formatting includes alignment, indentation, hanging paragraphs, line spacing and paragraph spacing. If you need to undo it all, press Control + Q. This will take the paragraph back to defaults, which goes back to left alignment and single line spacing. 14.) 10 Ways to Make Videos More Accessible for Everyone | CarrieOnAccessibility.com As a visually impaired content creator, making videos accessible is not just a box I need to check off my to do list; it's deeply personal. Every day, millions of videos are uploaded, yet so many remain inaccessible to people like me. This is what drives me to share how to make videos more accessible and help people understand why it's important. Through my latest video, I've shared 10 ways to make videos more accessible, drawing from my own experiences and the broader needs of the disabled community. However, these tips are not only for people with disabilities. Following these tips can make videos better and more enjoyable for everyone. News, Trends, Updates and Opinion Editorials 15.) Chameleon Text-to-Speech Update Gives Users Ability to Customize Experience | APH.org | 2/20/24 APH's Chameleon 2.1 Update enhances its text-to-speech feature with 27 new languages, offering customizable user experiences. Sarah Welch from APH discusses the educational advantages and continuous improvements aimed at enhancing user experience. Available for free to all Chameleon users. 16.) BlindShell Announces Free Monthly Wireless Service With New Blindshell Mobile Promotional Plan | 2/19/24 BlindShell USA has introduced a transformative free monthly wireless promotional plan for the visually impaired community through BlindShell Mobile. Launched on February 19, 2024, the plan offers unlimited talk and text, a free SIM card, and 5GB of data per month at no cost. Aimed at enhancing connectivity and easing communication challenges for those with visual impairments, this plan marks a significant advancement in accessibility and convenience. It is easily accessible to anyone with an unlocked cell phone and underscores BlindShell USA's commitment to supporting the visually impaired community. 17.) Coding for Accessibility: Making Software Inclusive for All Users | Medium (Limited free articles available.) | 2/17/24 This article discusses the importance of accessibility in software development. Learn practical tips for creating inclusive software that benefits over a billion people with disabilities, and enhances the user experience for everyone. Learn how to embrace accessibility as a cornerstone of ethical programming. 18.) How Accessibility Standards Can Empower Better Chart Visual Design — Smashing Magazine | 2/14/24 Explore the intersection of data visualization and accessibility in this article from the NOKIA Blog. It highlights the importance of accessible colors and dual encodings in charts for those with vision disabilities. Practical solutions, such as color contrast, dark themes, and incorporating text and icons, are discussed for creating more effective and inclusive visualizations. Emphasize an accessibility-first approach for better data interpretation. 19.) Personalized Voices: The Future of Screen Readers and TTS Technology | AppleVis.com | 2/14/24 Discussing ElevenLabs' 'pay-as-you-go' TTS marketplace on AppleVis, Charlotte explores the potential for personalized screen reader voices and asks if users would prefer purchasing or renting these voices. 20.) There's A New Accessible Audio Recorder On The Block. Meet The Zoom H1E, H4E, And H6E | David Redmond | Vision Ireland Zoom recently announced new products in the handy recorder range, and they come with one brilliant feature. They've got a screen reader built-in, making them truly accessible audio recorders. 21.) JAWS New Braille Feature: Split Braille! | Vision Ireland JAWS has introduced a new feature in JAWS 2024, named "Split Braille", aimed at aiding Braille users. This feature allows a braille display to be divided into two sections for simultaneous reading and referencing of different content. While the utility of this feature depends on the size of the braille display, it significantly enhances the efficiency of accessing and referencing information for Braille users. Vision Ireland promotes this advancement as part of their ongoing support for individuals with sight loss and invites users to explore more about this feature. Other News Sources 22.) AccessWorld Winter 2024 Newsletter | AFB.org ➜ Featured Surveys Submit your access-related survey for consideration within this section here. 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. ➜ Featured Podcast Episodes Submit your access-related Podcast Episode for consideration within this section here. February 15, 2024 | What is Audio Description? | Hadley Presents: A Conversation with the Experts For many living with vision loss, watching TV is less enjoyable as they can't see what's happening on the screen very well anymore. Audio description fills the void by narrating key visual elements. Listen in as Ricky chats with Hadley member and avid audio description user, Judy Davis. February 21, 2024 | Eyes on Success Episode 2408: The Disability in Medicine Mutual Mentorship Program The Disability in Medicine Mutual Mentorship Program (DM3P) is a grassroots organization that supports disabled healthcare professionals and trainees as they navigate the field of medicine. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with members Erin Jarrell and Suchita Rastogi about why and how the organization was formed and how its members benefit each other. February 17, 2024 | Blind Android Users Podcast Episode 167: Android 15, One UI Safety Settings and S24 Ultra Unboxing Episode 167: Samsung One UI part 16 (Safety settings) and unboxing the S24. This week, we continue our look at One UI settings and John unboxes yet another phone! News and events Android 15 Developer Preview 1 has been released. Austin has installed it, find out what he thinks. If you have an eligible Pixel device (Pixel 6 or higher), you can try Android 15 Developer Preview 1 for yourself. Android Basics: We continue our examination of Samsung One UI settings. This week, John takes us through Safety settings. Spotlight: John unboxes his Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. ➜ Featured Events Submit your access-related event for consideration within this section here. February 24, 2024 | Voiceover for Mac Discussion Group | Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT Bring your questions, tips, and tricks, and talk with other Voiceover users! This workshop will take place online. February 26, 2024 | Federal Hiring 101 for Blind and Low Vision Students | Project RISE 4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 12AM GMT on 2/27 Are you a blind or low vision college student approaching graduation and weighing career options? Consider joining the federal workforce, and make it a point to join this rare opportunity to learn how to navigate the hiring process as an applicant with a disability. February 27, 2024 | Nonvisual Data Science Workshop Series | Taught by Blind / Low Vision Practitioners | Pandas, NumFOCUS, and Iota | Workshop #4 of 5 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT Workshop series hosted by Pandas, NumFOCUS, and Iota. This five-workshop series will teach the fundamentals of data analysis and sonification using nonvisual tools and technologies. Designed for those who are blind, low vision, or who have difficulty accessing visual tools for data science. No prior experience with Python or data science is needed. February 28, 2024 | Navigating Excel with JAWS | (Assistive Technology Webinar) | Access Ingenuity 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT Join Marisa Church and Michael Vitagliano to learn about navigating and working with JAWS and Excel. This webinar will cover worksheet navigation, cell editing, basic formulas, formatting, and ribbon options. Ideal for both new and experienced JAWS users. February 28, 2024 | Free Webinar: How Tech Can Help People Stay Engaged And Independent In Older Age | AbilityNet.org.uk 5AM PT, 6AM MT, 7AM CT, 8AM ET, 1PM GMT Join AbilityNet's free webinar on Feb 28, 2024, for older adults to learn digital skills. Discover tips for using digital devices, insights on Alexa and Echo, and enhance your digital independence. Register for post-session recordings. March 5, 2024 | Nonvisual Data Science Workshop Series | Taught by Blind / Low Vision Practitioners | Pandas, NumFOCUS, and Iota | Workshop #5 of 5 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT Final workshop in the series focusing on data analysis and sonification using nonvisual tools. Designed for the blind, low vision, or those having difficulty with visual tools in data science. Covers Python basics, Pandas library, data exploration, and sonification. March 7, 2024 | Join Ability Summit | Microsoft Ability Summit is a one-day, free digital event on March 7, 2024. It celebrates people with disabilities, allies, and accessibility leaders. The event will provide learning opportunities, focusing on inclusive culture and accessible technology, with real-life stories and discussions on accessibility. March 18, 2024 through March 22, 2024 | 2024 CSUN Assistive Technology Conference The CSUN Assistive Technology Conference from March 18 to 22, 2024, is a premier forum on technology for all persons with disabilities. Sponsored by California State University, Northridge's Center on Disabilities, the conference is a platform for sharing knowledge and innovations in assistive technology. March 23, 2024 | Voiceover for Mac Discussion Group | Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library 11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT Bring your questions, tips and tricks and talk with other Voiceover users! This workshop will take place online. April 8, 2024 and April 9, 2024 | 24th Annual Multiple Perspective On Access, Inclusion & Disability Conference | The Ohio State University — Columbus, Ohio To be on the mailing list for the conference, send email to: ADA-OSU at osu.edu ✉ April 8, 2024 and April 9, 2024 | Power Up 2024 | Missouri Assistive Technology 6AM PT, 7AM MT, 8AM CT, 9AM ET, 2PM GMT Power Up is an annual conference held by Missouri Assistive Technology providing opportunities to learn more about assistive technology for various purposes. The conference will be held at the Holiday Inn Executive Center in Columbia, MO. April 8, 2024 through April 12, 2024 | Audio Description Institute 10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT 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 implementation of the 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act has spawned a virtual cottage industry for the development of description for broadcast television. Be a part of it. Who Should Attend: Anyone interested in: Working as freelance description writers for broadcast television. Working as a describer in a local performing arts program. Working as a describer for museum exhibitions. And experienced audio describers desiring an updated refresher course. April 16, 2024 through April 17, 2024 | EmTech Digital (UK) Europe | MIT Technology Review's Signature AI Conference Join the inaugural EmTech Digital Europe in London, April 2024. Experience live journalism, exclusive content, and insights from industry experts. April 18, 2024 | 2024 Helen Keller Achievement Awards | American Foundation for the Blind Please join us on April 18th, 2024, at the Japanese American National Museum in Los Angeles, CA, as we gather to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of individuals who have made a profound impact for people who are blind or have low vision. May 22, 2024 through May 23, 2024 | EmTech Digital (USA) | MIT Technology Review's Signature AI Conference In its 12th year at MIT, EmTech Digital focuses on the future of AI in business and society. 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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! | HumanWare The wait is over! 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Sponsor: GuideLights and Gadgets ➜ Classified Advertisement: New Year Specials | Guidelights and Gadgets No Bouncey Pouches for hands free phone and easy camera use just $40. Combination backpacks / shoulder bags: $50 for soft black leather and $60 for brown leather. This is the best, most secure, and practical solution we have found for carrying what you need for an entire day, and with the least strain on your back. Two unique styles available. Call or email Barry at: (617) 969-7500 ☎ or barry.scheur at gmail.com 📧️. Call or email Kae at: (781) 286-1696 ☎; or guidelightdogs at gmail.com 📧️. Director, http://www.GuideLightsAndGadgets.us Sponsor Since: June 25, 2020 Website: http://www.guidelightsandgadgets.us/ 🌐 For Gadgets and Leather Contact Barry at: Phone: (617) 969-7500 ☎ Email: bscheur.gadgetsandtech 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. Guys ➜ Classified Advertisement: Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub | A. T. Guys If you're like me, you probably have more things to plug into your computer than available ports. That's why we've now added the Pluggable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub. Plug it into your laptop and you will get 3 USB ports, SD and Micro SD card slots, a USBC charging port, and an HDMI video port. It's available now for just $29.95. Sponsor Since: June 11, 2020 Website: https://www.atguys.com/ 🌐 Phone: (269) 216-4798 ☎ Email: support 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: Biped.ai Sponsor Since: January 25, 2024 Website: https://biped.ai/ 🌐 Email: hello at biped.ai 📧️ Get Your Biped: European and US orders (including Switzerland) can already be dispatched (usual production and shipping time is 9 weeks). Biped is only available in Europe and in the US for now, but we are expanding the list of supporting countries quickly. Check Out The Demo: Check out the Biped.ai video demo here. About: Biped.ai is an innovative company that specializes in creating advanced mobility aids for people with vision loss. Their flagship product is the biped smart harness, a groundbreaking device designed to aid visually impaired individuals in navigating their surroundings with greater ease and safety. Company Overview: Biped.ai operates under the umbrella of Fusion Lab Technologies Sàrl, a company based in Switzerland. The company was established with a commitment to enhancing mobility and independence for those with vision impairments. Biped.ai has made significant strides in this field by leveraging cutting-edge technology and artificial intelligence. Product Description: The biped smart harness is a lightweight (900 grams) and wearable device designed to be worn on the shoulders. It's equipped with three cameras positioned on the left side of the chest, a battery located behind the neck, and a small computer on the right side of the chest. These components work in tandem to provide a self-driving car-like experience for pedestrians. The harness is capable of detecting a wide range of obstacles, including holes, branches, traffic signs, pedestrians, bicycles, and electric scooters. It utilizes artificial intelligence to predict collision risks and provides auditory warnings through Bluetooth headphones. These warnings are issued as short "beeps" to alert the user of potential dangers. Additionally, the device is equipped with GPS functionality to offer turn-by-turn navigation instructions, which are also relayed through the headphones. Features and Functionality: Obstacle Detection: The harness uses its cameras to scan a 170-degree field of view, functioning effectively both day and night. It can identify various obstacles and provides auditory warnings to the user. GPS Navigation: The device integrates GPS to deliver navigation instructions and is capable of detecting crosswalks and traffic lights for enhanced navigation support. Design: Weighing just 900 grams, the biped is designed for comfort and ease of use. It is worn on the shoulders, with strategically placed components for optimal functionality. Sponsor: Braille Works Sponsor Since: November 17, 2023 Website: https://brailleworks.com/ 🌐 Email: info at brailleworks.com 📧️ Phone: +1 (813) 654-4050 ☎ About: Dedicated to making the world a more readable place, Braille Works is one of the nation's leading providers of reading materials for people who are blind, visually impaired, or reading impaired. Making The World A More Readable Place™ has been our mission from day one. We are creative and innovative because our customers expect it. Your projects are given careful consideration to make every page easy to read and handle. This gives your blind and visually impaired customers the respect and independence they rightly deserve. At Braille Works, attention to detail drives everything we do. From the layout of your braille document to the format of a large print document, the scripting of an audio document, or the full compliance and accessibility of your PDF, we seek to exceed the expectations of your customers. Products and Services: 508 Compliance | Audio | Braille | Large Print Industries We Serve: Government Agencies | Banking & Financial | Translation Agencies | Healthcare & Insurance | Restaurants | Utilities Request A Quote: Contact Braille Works today to discuss your project. We welcome the opportunity to discuss your specific needs and the quality solutions we provide. Click here to get started or call us today at +1 (813) 654-4050 ☎. Social: Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram | X (Formerly Twitter) | YouTube Sponsor: Hable ➜ Classified Advertisement: What Are The Best Jobs For Blind and Visually Impaired People? | Hable Are you curious about the diverse career paths available to those who are blind or visually impaired? The range of job opportunities is broader and more exciting than many realize, encompassing areas from innovative tech roles to the creative arts. This exploration into the professional world showcases not only your unique abilities but also the adaptive technologies that enable you to thrive. Among these tools, the Hable One comes to enhance your independence and productivity. To dive deeper into the best jobs suited for our community and to learn more about the opportunities, we invite you to read our informative article. Additionally, for a firsthand look at the Hable One and to explore its features, visit Amazon USA and its reviews from users. Sponsor Since: November 16, 2023 Website: https://www.iamhable.com/ 🌐 About: At Hable we empower people with visual impairment in the digital world. Inclusivity at the core and innovation at the fingertips. Our keyboard for the blind has redefined cellphone and tablet experiences and accessibility for over 5,000 visually impaired people globally. Hable is an external keyboard designed to make using a smartphone simpler and more convenient for those with visual impairments, allowing for easy operation and accessibility. Order: Ready to experience the convenience and accessibility of Hable for yourself? Order Hable today at: Amazon in the USA: https://amzn.to/3MEvLN5 | Other Countries: https://bit.ly/3sq4kjz. Website: Home | Experiences | Tips and Tricks | Support | Order Hable Social: Facebook | Instagram | X (Formerly Twitter) | YouTube | LinkedIn Sponsor: The Accessibility Guy ➜ Classified Advertisement: Expert Document Accessibility Remediation: Compliant, Multilingual, & Inclusive | The Accessibility Guy 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. 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 20, 2023 Website: https://glidance.io/ 🌐 About: Fun and easy, you'll just love going out. You walk with confidence, and Glide will simply guide you where you want to go. Just Grab Your Glide And Walk With Confidence Glide will guide you to your destination or just keep you to a safe path and leave it to you to steer the way, giving you full autonomy and independence. Portable, Light And Versatile Glide uses advanced technology to help you safely and smoothly weave your way among obstacles and people, and make your way to a near by door, steps or a park bench. Easy To Use Smart technology for effortless mobility. Affordable No fancy back flips, just what you need to get back out there. Quick To Learn Our friendly design means you'll be up and running in no time. Feel Confident Without hesitation, anxiety, or getting lost. Get started with Glide today at: https://glidance.io/. Sponsor: Echobatix Sponsor Since: July 20, 2023 Website: https://echobatix.com/ 🌐 App: Download the Echobatix App from the Apple App Store here. App Training Videos: https://www.echobatix.com/training/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@echobatix.inc/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@echobatix About: The Echobatix app for iPhone offers text accessibility for touch screens at your fingertip and for text on objects in your hand. We combine hand detection with optical character recognition so that you can interact quickly with text. No WiFi or cell connection is required. If you have difficulty reading text, or if you find touch screens and product labels completely inaccessible, give the Echobatix app a try. The app supports large fonts and VoiceOver. You can provide feedback from within the app itself. We'd love to read your suggestions. The Echobatix app offers monthly and yearly subscriptions with a one-week free trial. When you first start the app you'll be prompted to select a subscription, but the first week is free, and you can cancel at any time. To download and try the Echobatix app, click this link: https://apple.co/3NZC3GZ Sponsor: AYES.ai ➜ Classified Advertisement: Every Traffic Light Accessible With The OKO Application | AYES.ai 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. Sponsor Since: March 16, 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! | Sterling Adaptives, LLC 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! Sponsor Since: March 9, 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 29, 2022 Website: https://lhblind.org/ 🌐 Phone: (800) 914-7307 ☎ Fax: (206) 329-3397 ░ Contact Us: https://lhblind.org/contact-us/ About: The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. is a private, not-for-profit social enterprise providing employment, support, and training opportunities for people who are blind, deafblind, and blind with other disabilities. The Lighthouse has provided employment and support to people who are blind in our community since 1918. The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. is a successful manufacturing organization with over 60 years of experience in precision machining. We produce an array of machined parts and plastic injection molding for various aerospace manufacturers, as well as a host of office products and hydration equipment sold to the Federal Government and the U.S. Military. We also own and operate stores on military bases along the West Coast. Our products and services include: • Manufacturing: We are a successful manufacturing organization committed to making jobs accessible to individuals who are blind. Our manufacturing operations center on making quality products for the Federal Government under the AbilityOne Program and producing parts for aerospace manufacturers. • Managed Services: The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. offers a variety of services to our commercial, federal, and military customers. These include Contract Management Support (CMS) services for government contracting offices. • Base Supply Centers: We operate 12 AbilityOne Base Supply Centers (BSCs) that offer easy customer access to Lighthouse products, direct feedback and communication with customers, and employment opportunities for individuals who are blind in geographic areas not served by larger nonprofit agencies. Sponsor: WayAround ➜ Classified Advertisement: FREE Sampler Pack with a Purchase of Any 25-pack of WayTags | Wayaround WayAround is a smartphone-based labeling app that works with your preferred accessibility settings. You just need the free mobile app and some WayTags ® to label items in the kitchen, garden, closet, office & more. If you want to label something that's inside, outside, wet, dry, hot, or cold, there's a WayTag that will attach securely. WayTags come as stickers, buttons, magnets, and clips. Each of the different styles of WayTags work exactly the same. Simply choose the WayTag that's best for what you want to label. Purchase a 25-pack of any style of WayTag and get a free Sampler Pack so you can try all seven different WayTags. Enter the coupon code SAMPLE at checkout and the Sampler Pack will automatically be added to your cart. This is a $14.99 value! Limit one Sample pack per order. Sponsor Since: January 5, 2023 Website: https://www.wayaround.com/ 🌐 General Sales & Support: (888) 898-4465 ☎ Business Sales & Support: (888) 898-4465 ☎ Email: connect 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 4, 2022 Website: https://aira.io/ 🌐 Download the App: Apple App Store | Google Play Store Plans and Pricing: https://aira.io/pricing/ Phone: NA: +1.800.835.1934 ☎ | AU: +1.800.765.096 ☎ | UK: +0.800.046.5668 ☎ | NZ: +1.800.425.451 ☎ Text Message: NA: +1.858.242.4457 📲 | AU: +61.488.839.767 📲 | UK: +44.149.320.2474 📲 Email: support 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 | Fable Everyone deserves equal access to the internet which is why Fable works with people with disabilities who use assistive technologies like switch controls to improve the accessibility of websites and apps. Fable Pathways, a free, accessible, and on-demand skill-building program, is an extension of Fable's mission. Fable Pathways provides new opportunities for people with disabilities to gain the skills they need, from experts like Judy Heumann and Kelly Ford, to contribute to improving digital accessibility. Sponsor Since: June 30, 2022 Website: https://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: Access Tech Live Sponsor Since: December 23, 2021 Website: https://accesstechlive.com/ 🌐 Email: feedback at accesstechlive.com 📧️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@accesstechlive Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3BQmUTl About: Formerly Double Tap TV, Access Tech Live is a weekly tech show on AMI-TV, (also available on CBC Gem in Canada and YouTube). Join hosts Steven Scott (@blindguytech) and Marc Aflalo (@marcaflalo) each week as they help viewers better understand how technology can assist them in their everyday lives. 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. Facebook: https://facebook.com/accesstechlive X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/accesstechlive Instagram: https://instagram.com/accesstechlive LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/accesstechlive Sponsor: HIMS, Inc. ➜ Classified Advertisement: HIMS Is Hiring! | HIMS, Inc. 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. Currently we have 2 positions to consider. If you are interested in, please email your cover letter and resume to: randy at selvashc.com 📧️. Positions can be found at https://hims-inc.com/job-posting/. Please note that all applicants will be subject to reference verification and a background check prior to employment start date. Sponsor Since: September 30, 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 | 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 today. Sponsor Since: August 5, 2021 Website: https://carroll.org/ 🌐 Phone: (617) 969-6200 ☎ Fax: (617) 969-6204 ░ Shop: https://carroll.org/store/ 🛒 Donate: https://carroll.org/donate ❤ Social: Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | LinkedIn | Instagram About: The Carroll Center for the Blind is the foremost leader in vision rehabilitation services for individuals confronted by the challenges of vision loss. Our mission is to empower those who are blind or visually impaired to achieve independence and to lead a fulfilling life. Established in 1936, the renowned Carroll Center for the Blind has been serving those with vision impairment for over eight decades; we are known nationally as a premier Vision Rehabilitation Center. Located just outside of Boston on a sprawling campus in Newton, Massachusetts, we proudly serve ALL ages and ALL stages of vision loss. With the ongoing promise of improving the lives of people with vision-related problems, The Carroll Center for the Blind has pioneered many innovative services allowing people who are blind or have low vision to learn the skills to be independent in their homes, in class settings, and in their work places. Our services include vision rehabilitation, vocational and transition programs, assistive technology training, educational support, and recreation opportunities for individuals who are visually impaired of all ages. For over 80 years, the expertise of Carroll Center staff has provided help for thousands of blind and visually impaired persons with diverse opportunities for success and independent living. Your Name Here Sponsor Since: Today Website: https://toptechtidbits.com/dearsponsor 🌐 Phone: (855) 578-6660 ☎ Email: enews at toptechtidbits.com 📧️ About: Founded in 2004, Top Tech Tidbits is the world's leading not-for-profit access technology publication that reaches over 13,000 blind, low vision, deaf, hard of hearing, deafblind, neurodivergent and/or disabled professionals, educators and enthusiasts, all over the world, each week. Subscribe here. Review the most recent issues here. ➜ 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. 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