[NJTechDiv] September Notes

[Andy]

	NFBNJ September 2025 Technology Committee Meeting Summary

This month’s presentation focused on new smart glasses, service updates, training opportunities, and a closer look at AI and accessibility.

New Devices and Apps

Ally Glasses

The Ally smart glasses from Envision and companion app for iOS, Android, and on the web are designed to give blind and low vision users real-time information, and custom voice experiences. Ally can read text, describe images and objects, and more. Ally even has access to a weather API for realtime access to weather, so you can ask questions such as "Should I use this umbrella today?" and get an intelligent answer. You can explore more on the Ally website <https://ally.me/>, watch a YouTube demo <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GQ9c3RRN_hg>, or read about their new voice customization feature <https://www.ally.me/blog/introducing-voice-customization-ally>. The Blind Life also has a demo <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBtzjgdY3uU>.

InnoSearch Food Delivery

The team at InnoSearch has expanded their platform to include a food delivery option. This feature allows users to browse menus and order food on the platform. Details are available at innosearch.ai/food <https://innosearch.ai/food>. (Use the promo code FOOD for $5 off.)

Hable SpeechLabel

Hable has introduced SpeechLabel, a tool to make labeling everyday items easier by using your voice or text labels. This can be a useful way to keep track of objects at home or work, or anywhere else. Learn more at Hable’s site <https://www.iamhable.com/en-am/pages/speechlabel>.

VR Cardinal LE from APH: Worth it or Not?

This has been in APH's catalog for quite a while, but they recently posted a blog post rehashing the VR Cardinal LE, a device advertised as an accessible navigation/GPs and book reader. As people have found out more about the device, it has stirred up some controversy. Many believe it resembles a rebranded Victor Trek. The HumanWare Victor Trek, as I understand it, is a discontinued product, which is causing controversy (APH is likely selling a discontinued product). Perhaps APH just wanted a book reader accessible through quota funding. Read more (from APH, at least) at APH ConnectCenter <https://aphconnectcenter.org/technology/is-the-vr-cardinal-le-the-accessible-device-youve-been-waiting-for/>.

Software Updates and Resources

JAWS September 2025 Release

Freedom Scientific released JAWS 2025.2508.120, with enhancements to AI and new multiline Braille support. See the full details at the JAWS What’s New page <https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/JAWS/JAWSWhatsNew#latest>.

Windows Tools and Guides

For Windows users, Computerworld’s Windows 11 Cheat Sheet <https://www.computerworld.com/article/1616436/windows-11-cheat-sheet.html> offers a concise overview of shortcuts and features. Additionally, Prodigi for Windows v1.4 now includes an AI assistant and access to digital libraries, though it remains a paid product. Details are on HumanWare’s site <https://www.humanware.com/en-usa/news/prodigi-for-windows-v1-4/>.

Apple Event Coverage

Apple will host its September 9 event, with new product and software announcements expected. AppleVis <https://www.applevis.com/blog/join-applevis-coverage-apples-september-2025-event-software-releases> will provide coverage and accessibility insights during and after the event.

Services and Training

Aira Job Seeker Offer Expansion

From Aira’s official announcement:
“Since the launch of the Job Seeker offer in February 2018, Aira has worked to reduce barriers in the job search process for countless Explorers, from application to interview. Grounded in our belief that Access is a Human Right, this Aira-sponsored program was created to help improve equitable employment opportunities for the Blind and Low Vision community. In response to Explorer feedback and the evolving landscape of employment access, we’re excited to announce that the scope of the Job Seeker offer has been expanded. Explorers may now use the offer through the completion of onboarding activities for a job they have accepted. This includes tasks such as completing new-hire paperwork and filling out tax or benefits forms prior to their official start date. The offer remains focused on the employment journey and does not include training or job duties once employment has officially begun. As with any of our access offers, you can activate the Job Seeker Offer by tapping on “Browse Access Offers on the Home Screen or letting your visual interpreter know you would like to use that offer.”

TTJTech Free Course

TTJ Tech Services <https://ttjtech.biz/> has opened registration for its free training course, VoiceOver In and Out, covering Apple’s screen reader in depth. Register here:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/XWM9zfyORaaBiUQsOlMbDA#/registration <https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/XWM9zfyORaaBiUQsOlMbDA#/registration>
AI and Accessibility

ChatGPT Glossary

If you’re curious about AI terminology, CNET has published a glossary of 56 AI terms <https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/chatgpt-glossary-56-ai-terms-everyone-should-know/#ftag=CADf328eec>, covering everything from large language models to prompt engineering.

Freedom Scientific AI Training

Freedom Scientific is also running a new AI webinar series <https://www.freedomscientific.com/training/learnai/> designed to help users understand AI tools and how they intersect with screen reader use.


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