[NJTechDiv] May 2026 Presentation

[Andy]

NFBNJ May 2026 "Andy's Antics"

This month’s presentation covered accessible audio production, updates to screen readers and AI tools, developments in mobility technology, and several new learning opportunities for blind technology users.

RABBIT for REAPER

A new accessibility project called RABBIT for REAPER has been released on GitHub. REAPER is a popular digital audio workstation used for music production, podcasting, and audio editing, and RABBIT aims to improve accessibility and workflow for blind users working within the software. The initial release can be found here: RABBIT for REAPER Releases <https://github.com/Timtam/rabbit/releases/tag/v0.1.0?utm_source=chatgpt.com>
This project reflects the continued growth of accessible audio production tools, particularly within the blind community, where REAPER has become increasingly popular due to its flexibility and strong accessibility support.

Access On Webinar: Building Websites as a Blind Person

On May 13, Access On will present a webinar titled How to Produce a Website as a Blind Person. The session will explore tools, workflows, and practical approaches for blind users interested in website creation and development. Registration information is available here: Access On Webinar Registration <https://nfb.org/programs-services/center-excellence-nonvisual-access/events/accessibility-boutique-reg?utm_source=chatgpt.com>
As web accessibility continues to improve, more blind users are entering areas such as web design, content creation, and digital publishing.

Changes Coming to AI Features in JAWS and Fusion

Vispero has announced upcoming changes to the AI features integrated into JAWS and Fusion, including age verification and account requirements for some AI-powered functionality. These changes are tied to evolving policies surrounding generative AI services and online safety requirements. More details are available here: Vispero AI Features Announcement <https://training.vispero.com/upcoming-changes-to-ai-features-in-jaws-and-fusion-age-verification-and-account-requirements/?utm_source=chatgpt.com>
This announcement highlights how accessibility tools are becoming increasingly connected to cloud-based AI systems and the policies that govern them.

Access On Looks at Smartphone Visual Interpretation Apps

A recent episode of Access On takes a detailed look at smartphone-based visual interpretation apps. These apps help blind and low vision users identify objects, read text, interpret scenes, and receive visual assistance using AI or remote agents. Listen to the episode here: Access On Visual Interpretation Apps Episode <https://accesson.pinecast.co/episode/5d247d51/a-look-at-some-smartphone-visual-interpretation-apps?utm_source=chatgpt.com>
The discussion provides useful comparisons between different apps and highlights how rapidly AI-powered visual assistance continues to evolve.

NVDA 2026.1 Released

NV Access has officially released NVDA 2026.1, continuing development of the free and open-source screen reader widely used around the world. The release includes fixes, performance improvements, and enhancements across Windows and web applications. Full release details are available here: NVDA 2026.1 Release Announcement <https://www.nvaccess.org/post/nvda-2026-1/?utm_source=chatgpt.com>
NVDA remains one of the most important accessibility tools available today, particularly because it is free and community-driven.

Glide Mobility Device Update

Glidance has shared its April manufacturing update for the Glide mobility device, announcing that the first unit has now been fully assembled. Glide is an AI-assisted mobility aid intended to help blind users navigate environments more independently while complementing traditional mobility tools such as the long cane or guide dog. Read the update here: Glide April Manufacturing Update <https://glidance.io/glide-april-update-manufacturing/?utm_source=chatgpt.com>
Interest in Glide remains high within the blindness community as people continue to follow its development and real-world testing progress.

Victor Reader Stratus 2

HumanWare has highlighted the Victor Reader Stratus 2, a DAISY player designed to improve access to digital reading materials for blind and print-disabled users. DAISY players remain important for many users who prefer dedicated hardware for reading books, newspapers, and audio publications. Learn more here: Victor Reader Stratus 2 Information <https://www.humanware.com/news/victor-reader-stratus-2-daisy-player-digital-reading-access/?utm_source=chatgpt.com>
While smartphones and tablets now handle many reading tasks, dedicated players such as the Stratus continue to provide a simpler and more focused experience for many readers.
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