Double Tap

Today on the show Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss their holiday preparations, weekend plans, and the joys of a quiet Christmas. They share humorous anecdotes about cleaning their studios, ear cleaning mishaps, and the importance of slowing down expectations in daily life. The conversation eventually shifts to technology, including the Be My Eyes app and the challenges of using camera glasses for reading. They also explore the recent news about a driverless bus service in Scotland and the future of autonomous vehicles. Also, Steven shares his excitement about digitizing old cassette tapes, reflecting on the nostalgia of family memories. Our featured conversation today discusses the Aira visual interpretation service, its functionality, and its new partnership with Walmart. Jenine Stanley from the company, along with Michael Babcock who has been out testing the service at Walmart, explore how Aira provides visual interpreting services for individuals who are blind, emphasizing its value in everyday situations, privacy concerns by users, and the importance of trust. The discussion also highlights the role of access partners like Walmart in enhancing accessibility for users while reducing costs overall.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Holiday Preparations and Weekend Plans08:52 Be My Eyes Experience and Camera Challenges15:08 Driverless Bus Service in Scotland Cancelled25:06 Nostalgia and Digitizing Cassette Tapes30:15 Introduction to Aira and Be My Eyes33:03 Exploring Aira's Visual Interpreting Service40:32 Aira's Partnership with Walmart41:01 Aira in Action: A Walmart Experience49:13 Access Partners and Their Importance55:54 How to Sign Up for AiraAbout AiraAt Aira, we believe access to information is a human right. Aira breaks down accessibility barriers by providing on-demand video remote interpreting for both the blind and low-vision community, and the Deaf Community. People can download the Aira Explorer app or the Aira ASL app, and be instantly connected to a professional interpreter. Available 24/7/365, interpreters work with callers to facilitate more efficient communication and accomplish tasks together. Aira is proud to lead the way in delivering secure, on-demand, inclusive services that transform lives and open doors to new opportunities for all. #OnMyTerms Learn more at www.aira.io (https://www.aira.io)Download for iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/aira-explorer/id1590186766Download for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=io.aira.explorer&hl=en_CA

Today on the show, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece delve into the social model of disability, discussing its implications and the responsibilities of society in creating accessible environments. They explore the relationship between blind individuals and tech companies, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and understanding in advocating for better accessibility. Listener interactions also touch on usability versus accessibility, the role of technology in the lives of blind users, and the evolving landscape of tech products like Chromebooks and gaming apps. Our main interview today features listener Lysette talking about the complexities surrounding blindness, the implications of Neuralink, and the social model of disability. They explore various perspectives within the blind community regarding the desire for sight restoration, the importance of societal accommodations, and the intersection of technology and disability. The discussion also touches on identity, pride, and the role of employment in changing societal perceptions of blindness. Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube. Chapter Markers: 00:00 Intro 27:58 Exploring Relationships with Tech Companies 32:14 Understanding the Social Model of Disability 34:37 The Intersection of Technology and Disability 38:21 Identity and the Experience of Blindness 41:52 Blind Pride vs. Societal Perceptions 46:58 The Role of Employment in Changing Perceptions 54:13 Concerns About Neuralink and Its Implications

Today on the show, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss the latest developments in AI technology, particularly focusing on Meta AI and its availability in the UK and the use cases for Google Geminii 2.0.Following a request from Meta, the company sends us an official statement regarding AI features, their availability in the UK, and the importance of accessibility in AI technology. Privacy concerns surrounding AI usage are also addressed following a listener email, along with a demonstration of the Gemini AI vision features from Brian Clark, highlighting its capabilities and potential applications. There’s also more discussion from listeners on the suggestion by Steven that there should be national technology centres for blind people, with viewpoints raised by Negative Julian and Tiffani on the topic.Plus Tiffani touches on the concept of blind pride and the varying experiences of those who are blind or visually impaired.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro02:59 Meta AI and Its Availability in the UK06:03 User Experiences with Meta Ray-Ban Glasses09:03 Meta's Official Statement on AI Features14:59 Privacy Concerns with AI Technology17:49 Demonstration of Gemini AI Features48:18 Debate on National Training Centers51:58 Blind Pride and Community Support

Today on the show, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss the latest advancements in AI technology, focusing on Google Gemini and Meta's new Live AI features just announced. They share their experiences with these tools, particularly in terms of accessibility for the blind community. The conversation highlights the potential benefits and limitations of AI, emphasizing the importance of user prompts and the need for caution in trusting AI for safety. Our main conversation today however focuses on BiPed, a wearable device for navigation, and its new features. Mael Fabien is the co-founder of the company and shares information on the newly-named NOA wearable and their NOA Chat feature available to Whatsapp users. More details are available at biped.ai.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro03:00 Exploring Google Gemini and Its Features08:46 Meta's Live AI and Its Implications21:10 Updates on Biped and New Features

https://youtu.be/Y5Dp7tDcemAToday on the show Steven and Shaun discuss new enhancements in AI vision, while Steven declares he will never eat chocolate again!But the big story of the day is the developments in AI Vision, with both Google and Open AI launching the ability to use your camera to get real time information about your surroundings, with mixed results.Shaun demonstrates the Gemini 2.0 vision feature during an early morning walk with his dog, while Steven talks about his experience trying out the new Chat GPT vision feature.You can access Google’s free version of AI vision using Gemini 2.0 here - https://aistudio.google.comThe guys also chat about a new documentary from Front Page Tech by Jon Prosser - you can watch it here. https://youtu.be/fkK7_QEIJrg?si=ksxDjnYwTPzocl5cGet in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro11:56 Discussion on Blind Representation in Media26:48 Exploring AI's Limitations in Mobility Assistance37:39 Accessing AI Vision Capabilities45:51 AI's Role in Enhancing Travel Experiences51:29 Innovations in Hearing Aid Technology

In this episode, Steven Scott and Shaun discuss various topics related to assistive technology, including the Glide Mobility Aid, user experiences, and the importance of confidence in new mobility solutions. Listener emails also bring up the topic of living with hearing loss as well as blindness, and the challenges of using hearing aids alongside assistive technology, plus how cochlear implants can be useful to so many people.There’s also much discussion on the latest kitchen gadgets made accessible by specialist tech companies and organisations out there, starting with an interview recorded at SIght Village in London, UK with Simon Cox from Cobolt Systems. We learn about their new talking dual drawer air fryer and talking microwave/oven.Shaun also catches us with Bram Caron from CNIB to hear about their new talking microwave that has just come to the market across the country.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro01:19 Exploring the Glide Device11:24 Banking Apps and Accessibility21:25 Cochlear Implants and Neuralink Discussion24:00 Exploring Neuralink and Sensory Integration26:22 Personal Experiences with Hearing and Vision Loss29:53 Talking Air Fryer and Microwave from Cobolt Systems36:24 Introducing the CNIB Talking Microwave

In this chaotic edition of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun try to compose themselves and discuss various interesting topics. They start with a light-hearted banter about a listener's request for a cat sound effect, leading into a discussion about the pros and cons of using Windows versus Mac for audio editing. The conversation shifts to the NVDA screen reader and its features, followed by a debate on the new Outlook interface. Following a listener email from Brian, the guys get a bit more serious as they discuss the need for national centers to support blind people in technology training and job placement. More emails provide insights into the challenges faced by the blind community, including the job market and the importance of accessible technology, as well as a fiery discussion about the right way to use the Glidance mobility aid called Glide.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro02:51 The Search for a Cat05:47 Windows vs. Mac: A Personal Experience11:49 Navigating Outlook: New vs. Classic14:48 The Need for Braille Education and Support20:47 The Importance of Accessibility in Technology51:14 Understanding the Glide Mobility Aid

In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece celebrate breaking news regarding the Mantis Q40's new text-to-speech feature. Steven demonstrates the new feature for listeners and viewers exploring how the new feature works, and how it integrates into the workflow of the device itselfThe show also includes listener feedback on various topics, including Christmas decorations, the Blindshell Classic 3, and a review of the much discussed Mini Guide. The guys also discuss the challenges of finding accessible content on platforms like Apple TV and listener John shares insights on the Pixel Watch's performance in terms of accessibility.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro06:03 Mantis Q40 Text-to-Speech Feature in Action11:58 Update Process and Features20:54 Your Feedback28:49 Blindshell 3 and Future Demos36:53 Accessibility in Apple TV: A User's Frustration47:34 Direct Touch Typing on Android Devices

In this episode, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece celebrate Steven's birthday while discussing various topics including updates to Android’s Talkback screen reader and the quest for Meta AI in the UK.Listener contributions also include a top tip on connecting your Amazon Echo to your mobile phone so you can use it when staying at a hotel or at another house, a new way to quickly access apps on Windows, and a cool gadget to avoid slipping and falling during icy days.Plus, we learn why Steven is a genius after fixing his broken PC - but what non-tech solution did he use to sort it out?Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro06:29 Android and AI Innovations16:45 Meta AI: Features and User Experiences29:31 Password Management Challenges39:07 Be My Eyes vs. Seeing AI46:15 Tech Tips for Smart Devices52:36 Navigating Windows Accessibility

In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece engage in lively banter about the weather, their podcasting energy, and the importance of mood in creating engaging content. In other words, they both need more coffee!They delve into the world of screen readers, comparing NVDA, JAWS, and Narrator, and discuss the potential of a new operating system called Cosmos from Humane AI. The conversation shifts to the GoBox, a device designed to make subtitles accessible, and the Envision glasses that could potentially enhance gaming experiences for visually impaired users using their new Ally AI feature. They also touch on Peloton's new audio-based exercise app and its accessibility features, inviting listener feedback on those who might have tried it.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro05:58 Screen Readers: NVDA vs. JAWS10:28 The New Operating System: Cosmos from Humane AI32:27 Real-Time OCR Technology For Subtitles42:20 Exploring the Envision Glasses

In this special episode of Double Tap, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece are joined by tech guru Michael Babcock to tackle listener questions. As always, the conversation is packed with tips, tricks, and a bit of chaos.  Steven kicks things off by talking about his switch from VMware Fusion to Parallels for running virtual machines on macOS. He shares how it’s made his life easier, especially with keyboard shortcuts and overall functionality. Meanwhile, Michael offers his own insights into navigating macOS and Windows simultaneously without losing your mind.  One listener asks for advice on marking frozen foods in a chest freezer without braille. The team dives into solutions like tactile markers, elastic tags, and tech options such as PenFriend and NFC tags, with plenty of laughs along the way about the quirks of cooking when you can’t see what’s in the freezer.  Michael also takes on a great question about learning VoiceOver gestures on iPhone. If you’ve ever struggled with swipes, taps, or understanding the rotor, he’s got you covered with recommendations like Apple’s built-in VoiceOver tutorial and the VO Starter app.  Headphones are another hot topic. From bone conduction options like the Shokz OpenRun Pro to Apple’s AirPods, the guys break down what works best for audiobooks, walking, and staying aware of your surroundings. They even touch on budget-friendly alternatives that won’t break the bank.  Steven revisits his take on the Apple Watch after recently upgrading. Spoiler alert: He’s found new love for its navigation features, health tracking, and Apple Pay convenience, though he admits it’s still not perfect for everyone.  For listeners curious about video accessibility, Michael explains how to use the Seeing AI app to make sense of videos and suggests ways to convert formats if needed. They also troubleshoot transferring files between iPhones and the Victor Reader Stream, exploring options like USB-C adapters and SD card readers.  Mac vs. PC debates resurface as the team discusses whether switching to macOS is worth it. Michael shares his tips for tackling the learning curve, while Stephen reflects on how the Mac has become a powerful tool in his workflow.  The episode wraps up with advice on how to amplify specific voices in noisy environments. Whether it’s using the iPhone’s Live Listen feature with AirPods or investing in a personal listener device, there’s plenty of practical info for making family gatherings (or avoiding them!) a little easier.  It’s another jam-packed episode full of tech, accessibility tips, and laughs!Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro06:02 Virtual Machines and Software Choices11:58  Accessibility in the Kitchen18:08 Understanding VoiceOver Gestures and Controls24:46 Audio Devices: Recommendations and Comparisons31:55 The Apple Watch: A Personal Perspective30:16 Utilizing Seeing AI for Video Accessibility36:02 Transferring Files Between Devices40:30 Transitioning from Windows to Mac49:10 Enhancing Conversations with Technology56:20 Navigating Blindness: Resources and Communities01:02:40 Dog Ownership and Blindness: Practical Tips

In this episode, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece engage in a lively discussion covering various topics related to technology, accessibility, and community perspectives. They talk about the upcoming review of the Blind Shell Classic 3, the ongoing debate about Braille, and the importance of diverse voices in the blind community. The conversation also touches on the challenges of language and communication, the role of technology in gaming, and user experiences with Echo devices. Listener contributions bring up various themes surrounding accessibility in technology, particularly focusing on gaming, the costs associated with assistive devices, and the experiences of users with different technologies. They discuss the role of volunteers in assistive tech and explore the significance of symbols representing blindness.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro06:06 Braille Debate and Misunderstandings11:52 Language and Communication in the Blind Community18:00 Echo Devices and User Experiences31:03 Accessibility in Gaming: A Double-Edged Sword39:00 The Role of Volunteers in Assistive Technology47:13 Symbols of Blindness: Understanding and Acceptance51:52 Personal Experiences with Low Vision

Today on Double Tap, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece engage in a lively discussion about the relevance and importance of Braille in today's society. They explore the challenges facing Braille literacy, the impact of the cost of braille technology, and the need for more education and community support to ensure that Braille remains a viable option for blind and visually impaired people. As always, our conversation is fueled by your feedback, highlighting diverse perspectives on the topic which are always welcome.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro08:21 Debate on Braille's Relevance42:24 Listener Feedback: Exploring Technology for Blind Gardeners46:32 Listener Feedback: AI Shopping Tools: Enhancing Independence

In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece reflect on the significance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.Our main interview today however focuses on a major milestone for Apple, as in 2025 they celebrate 40 years of providing accessibility to disabled people. Global Head of Accessibility at the company, Sarah Herrlinger, joins Steven Scott to discuss the changes that have come in over the years and where accessibility is today in 2024.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro14:50 Listener Email: Braille Publishing Challenges20:52 Listener Email: Reflections on Sight Village Event23:36 Listener Email: The Glide Experience and Guide Dogs27:24 Listener Email: Innovations in Assistive Technology30:26 Celebrating 40 Years of Apple Accessibility with Sarah Herrlinger

Today on the show, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece meet Mike Shebanek, a pivotal figure in the development of Apple VoiceOver. They explore the history of accessibility at Apple, the myths surrounding the creation of VoiceOver, and the importance of community feedback in its development. Mike shares his journey from product management to leading accessibility initiatives, emphasizing the need for inclusive technology that benefits everyone. The discussion also touches on his transition to Meta and the challenges of ensuring accessibility across a vast user base. He also discusses his experiences at Meta, focusing on the challenges and innovations in making technology accessible for all. He highlights the importance of measuring accessibility accurately and the role of AI in enhancing user experiences. Transitioning to his current role at Be My Eyes, he emphasizes the development of hands-free wearable technology that aims to empower blind users. The discussion also touches on the future of AI and its potential to improve accessibility, as well as the significance of integrating assistive technology into mainstream products.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro02:31 Mike Shebbeneck's Journey at Apple05:52 The Origins of VoiceOver: Myths and Realities10:21 The Vision Behind Accessibility at Apple15:27 Community Engagement and Feedback in Development20:09 The Evolution of VoiceOver and Its Features25:51 Transitioning to Meta: Accessibility Challenges and Insights28:42 Building Accessibility at Meta33:23 Innovations in AI for Accessibility37:05 Transition to Be My Eyes39:30 Hands-Free Wearable Technology45:11 The Future of AI and Accessibility

On today’s show, Steven and Shaun get into a lively discussion about the ongoing debate between Mac and Windows users. They explore their personal experiences with both operating system and dive into the complexities of using both systems simultaneously. The guys are joined by regular guest and podcast host Michael Babcock, and they discuss the intricacies of using Windows and Mac systems, focusing on compatibility, user experience, and the best tools for productivity. They also explore the advantages of each platform, the importance of choosing the right computer, and how to integrate both systems effectively.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Introduction to the Mac vs. Windows Debate03:50 The Return to Mac: Experiences and Insights06:48 The Evolution of ARM and Legacy Software09:38 Choosing the Right Computer: Mac vs. Windows12:38 The Value of Mac Mini and Portability15:48 Gaming and Desktop vs. Laptop Preferences18:42 Final Thoughts on Mac and Windows Experiences32:22 Navigating Windows and Mac Integration38:22 Comparing Virtualization Software: Parallels vs. VMware Fusion44:26 Productivity Tools and File Management

Today on the show, Steven and Shaun discuss the new Lotus Smart Switches and hear listener insights on sight loss and the challenges of learning Braille.The guys begin with a short demonstration of the new Lotus Smart Switches from listener Kevin Chao, who shared a video unboxing of the switches and the easy set up process that goes with them.There’s lots of interesting topics in the inbox as usual, including the desire for more braille learning opportunities for later learners, the meaning of blind culture compared to other disability cultures, the state of Microsoft and its ARM ambitions, and what exactly UV light does for a water bottle.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro05:22 Exploring Smart Home Solutions: Lotus Smart Switches11:24 Learning Braille: Challenges and Recommendations17:37 Navigating Vision Loss: Personal Experiences23:25 UV Water Bottles and Be My Eyes30:01 The Impact of Cochlear Implants on Deaf Communities36:01 Understanding Accessibility and Technology Use41:24 Braille Technology and Its Evolution47:55 ARM Technology and Its Implications53:45 The Future of Audio Description in Live Events

Today on Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece chat about the challenges of smart home devices, and the issues Steven has had trying to connect smart devices on the move.Today’s show is really all about you, as we dive into the inbox to hear listener emails discussing AI functionality in Meta Ray Bands, thoughts on the new Blindshell Classic 3, and the importance of community support in learning about new technology.Steven sets out his thoughts on the need for better education and resources for blind people who want to learn assistive and mainstream technology, while Shaun questions the public perceptions of blind people out there.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro05:54 Smart Home Devices: Thermostats and Accessibility Issues11:56 Listener Feedback: AI and Meta Ray Bands20:59 Listener Feedback: Synapptic, BlindShell & Kapsys Smartphones40:52 Listener Feedback: Symbols and Their Significance52:25 Listener Feedback: Friendly Banter

Today on the show Steven and Shaun discuss a range of tech topics including the rise in popularity of a pedestrian navigation app, a new AI assistant that’s just launched, and a major update to a popular QWERTY braille display.First up, the guys talk about the Oko app, which is an app to help blind people cross the road safely. They’ve just been announced as finalists in Apple’s app of the year awards.Up next they chat about the new Envision Ally assistant and how it compares to other AI assistants out there. Ally is now available on Envision Glasses and we are keen to hear from you if you’ve tried it out.Our main story of the day features the news that the Mantis Q40 from Humanware and APH (American Printing House for the Blind) is getting a major update this winter, bringing text-to-speech to the popular QWERTY braille display. There’s a special webinar being held on the 2nd of December with more details on all of the new features coming in version 2.4 of the software - sign up here - https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_9xhdtKLoTfipb6B3Zq2amQ#/registrationGet in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.

Today on the show Steven and Shaun give us an update on their exciting weekends, while Shaun probes Steven on how good his new Mac Mini M4 is.The guys also chat about the Mantis Q40 from Humanware receiving some big updates this winter, and they talk about a new version on the VOCR addon for Voiceover users on the Mac. Watch and listen to blind musician Andre Louis talk to the developer of the app from his YouTube channel - https://youtu.be/_9EIYUPyXao?si=tCz-PPoDHlbusUu0. You can also download VOCR here - https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbVc4RFlUd0UxX2N1OXlxOVozd0VtLWV6OFU3d3xBQ3Jtc0trMFBiUGZxZUxtcW5rMGR1OWIyRlNYRlpqcGFVdW9XMUhHUl9CRUhCZWpEU2Rwd0dlRS1ROUJFcTIzTGQwZk05NGh1Q3Zxem9yN0pwQ05renRpZk5MMFBORnlIMTlPMVpjVnNtWWdaWGQ3Q0VGVEZlcw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fchigkim.github.io%2FVOCR%2F&v=_9EIYUPyXaoPlus we are joined by Ryan Jones from Vispero to talk about the Next Big Thing contest and we meet its winner for 2024 - Double Tap regular Robin Christopherson - who shares the inspiration behind his winning entry.And Steven thinks he might have found the best present for those chicken fans in your life!Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro08:53 Vispero's Next Big Thing Contest Overview17:51 Future of JAWS and ZoomText on ARM Devices28:08 Performance Improvements in ZoomText29:30 Celebrating 30 Years of JAWS30:24 Introducing the Winner of Next Big Thing