Talking Tech - Vision Australia Radio

In this show we concentrate on talking about 3 wearable devices for Australian users: ARX Vision (coming soon in the next few months)), Orcam MyEye 3, and Envision glasses.     ARX Vision.   Requires USBC cable connection to Smart phone or BSC2. Basic operation requires the ARX app. Works as a camera on Android as well with the Seeing AI or Navilens app. iPhone compatibility coming soon (no mention of iOS Seeing AI or Navilens functionality). Will be available in Australia in a few months.   Main features:   scan documents. facial recognition, Detects objects, Describes scenes.   Seeing AI functions:   short text, document scanning, bar code, face detection, Scene detection, Colour detection, Light detection, Hand writing.   Navilens functions:   Easy tag (QR) identification especially from a distance.     Envision AI Smart Glasses   Instant Text, Scan text, call Aira, call Ally, cash identification,, light detection, Colour detection, scene detection, detect people, recognise faces, detect objects, Ask Envision AI.   Orcam MyEye 3   instant Text, scan text, smart reading, read  hand writing, barr code identification, cash identification,, colour detection, recognise    faces. detect objects, browser based smart magnifier. AI.   Note   The Meta Ray-Ban aren’t fully supported in Australia at the moment, and Vision Pro which is due on July 12 at the moment is only digital magnification and speech etc: i.e. AR/VR only.   Product Minute from the Vision Store: Cut Resistant Mesh Gloves.   As the name imply’s, protect your hands/fingers from getting cut with using knives when cooking or (like me) protect your hands when gardening (especially sharp pruning clippers smile).   https://shop.visionaustralia.org/cut-resistant-mesh-glove-medium.htmlSupport this Vision Australia Radio program: https://www.visionaustralia.org/donate?src=radio&type=0&_ga=2.182040610.46191917.1644183916-1718358749.1627963141See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Product Minute: Orcam Read 3.   This handheld device can read printed or digital text aloud and can act as a stationary reader when used with its stand. Connect it to a smart tablet or computer and use the AI assistance to ask questions about the text it reads or even have it summarised for you   https://shop.visionaustralia.org/orcam-read-3-with-stand.html   WWDC 2024 Beta 1 notes     Apple ID now changed to Apple Account across all OS. Passwords app on iOS and Mac OS. Music Recognition app on Mac, iOS, and Apple Watch.   Mac OS 10.15   New Tips app.   Under the Hearing menu from the Extras menu, each Background Sound correctly identified by VoiceOver. New VoiceOver Tutorial. New VoiceOver Utility Commanders screen.   Create voice shortcuts in accessibility to launch actions.   iOS 18   Power button for turning off now in the control centre.   Reorganised Settings with all the Apps now under their own Apps folder.   Haptic sound to identify that VoiceOver  is starting up.. Language options in voiceover rotor now changes to voice. Live detection in VoiceOver rotor. BSI now with command mode for navigation with new command to invoke.   In accessibility, new voice to vibration option for music playing.   Create voice shortcuts in accessibility to launch actions.   Watch OS   New Vitals app.   Pause Rings.   TV   Increase dialogue volume.Support this Vision Australia Radio program: https://www.visionaustralia.org/donate?src=radio&type=0&_ga=2.182040610.46191917.1644183916-1718358749.1627963141See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this weeks Talking Tech it is all about Apple WWDC 2024 keynote, and what is new in the 6 OS’s, and of course Apple’s own Apple Intelligence.   For more info on the beta info for Vision Pro 2,  iOS 18, iPad os 18, watch os 11, TV os 18, and Mac OS 15, check out the US Apple website at:   https://www.apple.com    Remember that these are developer betas only, public betas will be next month, and a lot of the features talked about may not appear until the end of the year.Support this Vision Australia Radio program: https://www.visionaustralia.org/donate?src=radio&type=0&_ga=2.182040610.46191917.1644183916-1718358749.1627963141See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Product Minute: Get up to 15% off selected assistive tech devices from the Vision Store. Sale ends June 30, or while stocks last. Come in to any Vision Store or shop online at   https://shop.visionaustralia.org/onsale   Blind Shell Classic 2 Ok for When Telstra Drops 3G network on August 31 2024   All is safe, your Blind Shell Classic 2 will continue to work.   Be-My-Eyes Now Available for Windows   This excellent app famous on the iPhone and Android phones, is now available on Windows.   What is in David’s Computer Bag   Haven’t done one of these for a while, so here is a look in to my computer bag.   Victor Reader Stream 3. Stella Trek. Brailliant BI40X. Bt Speak Pro.   Z Flip 3. iPhone 14 Pro. Logitech keyboard. RIVO keyboard. Belkin Mini Stage Tablet stand.   MacBook Pro M2. iPad Pro 10 inch M2. Surface Pro with Smart Keyboard.   JBL head set. JBL Extreme 3 portable speaker. Shokz bone conduction head phones. Zoom Essential H4. XLR microphone.   Versa Slate. Accessible 10000 and 20000 Power Bank. AirTag. Cables, audio adapters, SD cards, and USBC/USBA convertible sticks. Korean Telescopic cane.Support this Vision Australia Radio program: https://www.visionaustralia.org/donate?src=radio&type=0&_ga=2.182040610.46191917.1644183916-1718358749.1627963141See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Product Minute: EOne Bradley Watch    More than a watch, a classic Time piece.   https://shop.visionaustralia.org/campaigns/eone-bradley-mesh-silver-watch-40mm.html   The Monash Assistive Technology and Society (MATS) Centre is offering two PhD Scholarships. Candidates who identify as having a disability are strongly encouraged to apply.   You can learn about the MATS Centre at: https://www.monash.edu/mats/about   Emerging assistive technologies have the potential to break down many of the barriers that people with disabilities face at school, university, work and in the social sphere. Our work at the MATS Centre is guided by partnerships with the community to ensure we’re addressing real problems faced by real people and creating a lasting impact. Join us as a PhD Candidate and help to create a world that is more inclusive and equitable.   The successful candidate will explore an area of research focus within MATS and the Faculty of Information Technology. The precise details of the PhD project are open to negotiation, but it should be designed with the aim of making a positive difference to the life experience of people with disabilities.   The successful candidates will be based in the Faculty of Information Technology of Monash University at the Caulfield or Clayton campuses in Melbourne.   For more details, please go to: https://careers.pageuppeople.com/513/cw/en/job/665632/phd-scholarship-in-assistive-technology-and-disability    Closing Date  Wednesday, 3 July 2024   Microsoft CoPilot Plus PC’s event   Yep, all about AI, and the new hardware to run it on.   https://www.techmeme.com/240521/p17#a240521p17   How to Keep an Old Computer Running   If you just want to use your old computer for mail, web, and perhaps even a media server, then don’t get rid of it.     https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-keep-an-old-computer-running/   Where Are Floppy Disks Today, Yes They Are Still Around   I still remember my first 5.25, then 3.5 floppy disk. But as this articles says, they are still around even today running specific equipment.   https://www.zdnet.com/article/where-are-floppy-disks-today-planes-trains-and-all-these-other-places/#ftag=RSSbaffb68   Here is How Many Years Users are Keeping Their iPads   3 years or more seems to be the  trend these days, certainly longer than holding on to a smart phone.   https://9to5mac.com/2024/05/15/heres-how-many-years-users-keep-ipads/Support this Vision Australia Radio program: https://www.visionaustralia.org/donate?src=radio&type=0&_ga=2.182040610.46191917.1644183916-1718358749.1627963141See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this podcast, Toby Walsh is joined by Vision Australia assistive technology guru and 'Talking Tech' presenter David Woodbridge to chat all things Artificial Intelligence. Toby Walsh is Laureate Fellow and Scientia Professor of Artificial Intelligence at the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at the University of New South Wales, research group leader at Data61, adjunct professor at QUT, external Professor of the Department of Information Science at Uppsala University, an honorary fellow of the School of Informatics at Edinburgh University and an Associate Member of the Australian Human Rights Institute at UNSW. Need more from Professor Toby Walsh?  Listen to our recent Vision Australia Library presentation as part of the Melbourne Writers Festival, In conversation with Toby Walsh as he examines the possibilities and perils of emerging AI technologies, from ChatGPT to facial recognition and self-driving cars, with Elizabeth McCarthy. https://omny.fm/shows/interview-highlights/melbourne-writers-festival-special-in-conversati-1Support this Vision Australia Radio program: https://www.visionaustralia.org/donate?src=radio&type=0&_ga=2.182040610.46191917.1644183916-1718358749.1627963141See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Quick list of links for this weeks show.   OPen AI 4o Online Presentation   https://www.engadget.com/openai-claims-that-its-free-gpt-4o-model-can-talk-laugh-sing-and-see-like-a-human-184249780.html?src=rss&guccounter=1   The Chat GPT Mac Desktop app (for Chat GPT Plus Subscribers)   https://www.zdnet.com/article/the-chatgpt-desktop-app-is-more-helpful-than-i-expected-heres-why-and-how-to-try-it/#ftag=RSSbaffb68   Google IO 2024 Online Presentation   https://techcrunch.com/2024/05/15/google-i-o-2024-everything-announced-so-far/?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly9uZXdzLmdvb2dsZS5jb20v&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAE5qqQ7xkej-h_vSKTZoD_QKhcqHArIMCBw4b2co7EsSJySpTBre-UgA9luH5Vjo6cxBRv_SsR91xtlo3By4aAY5a1nsWYGqnf_xejjwjRH1YsWP6QskwilwhUliJDK-nUedetwY35J6i3AyNAY21rSfyCzxlPl3Z2j4FO5iRm-b   Apple Announces New Accessibility Features for iPhone and iPad (iOS 18 coming up this year)   https://techcrunch.com/2024/05/15/apple-accessibility-features-2024/   Glide Now Available for Pre-Order for Late 2025   https://glidance.io   WeWalk 2.0 Now Available to Order (but not yet from Australia)   https://wewalk.io/en/v2-brochure/   International Council on English Braille 8Th General Assembly May 25 to May 30 2024 in NewZealand   https://iceb.orgSupport this Vision Australia Radio program: https://www.visionaustralia.org/donate?src=radio&type=0&_ga=2.182040610.46191917.1644183916-1718358749.1627963141See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Product Minute: Mountbatten Tutor.   Happy to say the Mountbatten Tutor is available from both Vision Australia and Quantum RLV. Great for pre-Braille training in to primary. Could be used by adults as well, but not primary focus. Braille, emboss, type in via QWERTY keyboard, see what is happening on the inbuilt screen, and link it up to a smart phone or tablet.   https://shop.visionaustralia.org/campaigns/mountbatten-brailler-tutor.html   Apple Event 7 May 2024   https://events-delivery.apple.com/2403kaqfcpzjjnpkkkkmbtyqacnyrknu/m3u8/vod_index-FWvkXNNmsRMrZDXBaxokUYtHsLjfLzXu.m3u8   iPad Air, and iPad Pro 11 and 13 inch versions. Magic Keyboard. Apple Pencil Pro.   David and the Tech Doctors Chat About the May 7 2024 Apple Event   https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-tech-doctor-blog-and-podcast/id370507954?i=1000654934950   Sonos App no longer Accessible for Users who are Blind   Always reassuring when main stream media picks up concerns to the disability community, in this case, the Sonos app is not accessible for screen reader users on either iOS or Android.   https://9to5mac.com/2024/05/09/new-sonos-app-breaks-accessibility-for-visually-impaired/   Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) May 16 2024   I always like to remind folks that GAAD really goes a long way beyond web and app accessibility. Think of the “things” in your everyday life that is “digital” and then ask yourself could this be accessed by “everyone”.   https://accessibility.day   Telstra to Extend the 3G Shut Down Until August 31 2024   This is for Telstra customers, so may be different for your provider. However, a great time to recheck not only your SIMM card/hand set compatibility with 4G/5G, but also other devices like CPAP devices that also use SIMM cards.   https://www.telstra.com.au/exchange/our-3g-closure-in-2024--your-questions-answered Support this Vision Australia Radio program: https://www.visionaustralia.org/donate?src=radio&type=0&_ga=2.182040610.46191917.1644183916-1718358749.1627963141See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this weeks Talking Tech, Stephen gives a warning about the potential of the Sonos app update May 7 in the US not being accessible with VoiceOver.   Stephen catch’s up with Sam Taylor (ATC) from the Va Brisbane office on a general discussion about assistive and main stream tech.Support this Vision Australia Radio program: https://www.visionaustralia.org/donate?src=radio&type=0&_ga=2.182040610.46191917.1644183916-1718358749.1627963141See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week Stephen revisits a program from late last year in conversation with David on the technology advances in 2024.   Notes from 26th December 2023: What is Computer Artificial Intelligence (AI)   In simple terms, it is making computers think like Humans. Eg recognising speech, making decision, and recognising patterns etc.   General examples of Computer AI   Advanced Web Search Engines. Recommendation systems. Virtual assistance. Speech recognition. Automatic translation. Automatic audio translation. Automated speech synthesis. Smart home. Predictive maintenance. Natural language processing. Super play. Content creation. Image recognition. Automated image generation. Automated music composition. Automated text summary. Face detection. Spell checking. Word suggestions. Weather prediction. Cyber Security. Medical diagnosis.. Health and well being. Automated customer service. Trains. Shipping. Aviation. Automatic Driving Assistance. Self driving cars. Autonomous Drones. Robotics.   Examples Of Computer AI for Blind or Low Vision   Object recognition. Distance from objecgts. Indoor navigation. Scene description. Currency detection. Colour detection. Light detection. People detection. Hand writing recognition. Optical Character recognition (OCR). Word prediction.. Bar or QR code detection. Voice control.   Examples of Handy AI Apps for Blind or Low Vision Folks   Assistive Tech   Seeing AI (various channels/Options). Be-My-Eyes (Virtual Assistant feature). Envision.   Magnifier on iOS (door, People, text, and obstacle detection). Chat GPT. Bing/Copilot. Bard.Support this Vision Australia Radio program: https://www.visionaustralia.org/donate?src=radio&type=0&_ga=2.182040610.46191917.1644183916-1718358749.1627963141See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Product Minute: Envoy Connect Audio Player for the Vision Australia Library   Straightforward and easy to use with the Windows Kiosk application to access books and download to the plugged in player. Then unplug, and enjoy your audio book. Remember, the Vision Australia Library is open to anyone with a print disability, and the Vision Store is available to anyone interested in vision related products such as  the Envoy Connect. Contact the Vision Australia library or Vision Store via the main 1300 847 466 number.   https://shop.visionaustralia.org/envoy-connect-audio-player-for-va-library.html   Honda Audio Scene Detection App for Travelling in the car   The beta of this app sounds quite amazing for blind or low vision car travellers who want to know what is happening around the vehicle when traveling. Computer Vision, AI, GPS, weather etc all rolled in to one experience. Currently in beta.   https://hondanews.com/en-US/honda-automobiles/releases/new-ai-based-honda-scenic-audio-app-will-help-make-the-joy-of-the-journey-accessible-to-the-blind-and-visually-impaired   Vision Australia and Acoustic Vehicle Audio System (AVAS) for Electric Vehicles   Fantastic to see Vision Australia’s extensive hard work over the last 5 years paying off getting the AVAS in to legislation for electric vehicles travelling under 25KPH for blind and low vision Australians.   https://www.visionaustralia.org/community/news/2024-04-19/vision-australia-commends-federal-governments-move-mandate-acoustic   aple Accessibility Update 2024 Online Event - Make it Yours, register for either May 1, 2, 8 or 9 for a one hour Session   Multiple dates/times, and various accessibility options such as CC or AD. Always great to get an update or refresher on accessibility. I think Apple is getting in early  or GAAD (Global Accessibility Awareness Day) later on in May.   https://events.apple.com/content/events/anz/au/en/default.html?token=xww6uj7woR0X9A3c8a4GQkNVdHioJeacopALBwoa3Nf9qRbkVl1f2R7bxjPU29UduZhb5czMzvZ9JEnGCAWlUFwYp_VRfv60aevvydumHi_QB-xfBuh_fjKoLcaRgBQ960JADmFvS09e1L-9pugzkuFIT6bQ&a=1&Locale=en_AU&l=e     WeWALK Zoom Webinar on the New WeWalk, 2, US April 25 6PM GMT. Looking forward myself to finding out about the new features in this sonar smart cane with associated smart phone app. Link is to register. As far as we can tell, this is on very early Aussie time on the 26th of April at 3AM. Here is hoping that they will post the webinar afterwards for folks to enjoy.   https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfHNQH9uwcb6kp8K1m7aoBubxvncqozcPZ5T31JIlV4uy17zg/viewform     Leather case now available for pre-order for the BT speak.   Great to see this pre-order happening to keep your BT Speak protected with an excellent case from Turtle Back..   https://turtlebacklv.com/products/blazie-bt-speak-fitted-leather-case-with-protective-key-cover-and-strap-by-turtlebackSupport this Vision Australia Radio program: https://www.visionaustralia.org/donate?src=radio&type=0&_ga=2.182040610.46191917.1644183916-1718358749.1627963141See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Product Minute:: Mini Guide Cane Holder     As the name suggests, it is a holder that you slide your Mini Guide in to which is attached to your cane.   I only purchased mine this week and it is one of those items which I should have purchased when it first came out, it is so handy smile.   Several links below   Two links firstly to the Va Store shop page for the Mini guide Holder, and then the link to the actual Mini guide itself on the shop site.   Mini Guide Holder   Mini Guide (itself)   After I posted the Mini Guide Holder podcast on my iSee feed,    Podcast demo of the Mini Guide Holder   I received lots of queries about the Mini Guide itself, hence the linked demo next.   Podcast demo of the Mini Guide itself    Microsoft testing Ads in Windows 11 Insider Build within the Start Menu   Windows is starting to sound like a Smart TV screen.   SD Cards to Hit 4TB by 2025   This sounds great for moving large files around from device to device if you need to. However, I just hope folks don’t use them as permanent storage solutions.   Apple Argues About Why it is Still Ok to sell MacBooks with 8GB RAM   I used to think this was ok, but with AI in particular wanting more computing resources, I’m wondering if this is still the case.   Apple Intends to Overhaul Entire Mac Line Up with M4 AI Chips   I think the M3 only came out 5 months ago, and at the end of this year it seems the M4 will be out. It is going to be very interesting to see what happens at WWDC in June with AI for iOS and Mac OS.Support this Vision Australia Radio program: https://www.visionaustralia.org/donate?src=radio&type=0&_ga=2.182040610.46191917.1644183916-1718358749.1627963141See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Talking Tech for April 9 2024 Product Minute: Shokz Open Move Bone Conduction Head Phones   Two reasons why I always go back to these head phones. Firstly of course, they are bone conduction head phones leaving my ears free to listen to what is around me. Secondly, they use a standard USBC port which means for my ever growing collection of USBC devices plus their cables, they still fit wright in.   https://shop.visionaustralia.org/shokz-openmove-wireless-bluetooth-headphones-grey.html   Update from Blazie Technologies   Due to overwhelming interest in the BT Speak Pro, Blazie Technologies has decided to discontinue the Bt Speak basic. For the moment, the company is only selling from their Own website.   https://www.blazietech.com   Another Update, Touch Pad Pro Foundation Getting Closer (sort of) to Launching the Braille Doodle    —   Copy of Email April 5 2024 Dear BrailleDoodle Family, We've found it incredibly challenging! We're at the point where we just can't wait any longer! We've been hesitant to post an update without any significant progress to report. However, we're thrilled to share that recent advancements in manufacturing have been truly remarkable. Throughout this process, we've strived to maintain transparency, and in that vain, these past few months have been frustrating and, at times, even scary. It's hard to overstate the precision required for every aspect of the BrailleDoodle to function flawlessly. With over 1600 metal beads and holes in the BrailleDoodle, even a single malfunction is simply unacceptable. After numerous adjustments, we're finally producing fully functional BrailleDoodle samples, one after another. Below, you'll find an audio-described video showcasing the BrailleDoodle being put through its paces. We're confident that BrailleDoodles will soon be in the hands of people within the next couple of months. We understand that many of you are disappointed by the delays, but when you finally have this product in your hands, you'll realize it was worth the wait! The BrailleDoodle is poised to be nothing short of incredible! Despite the chaos of this journey, we're immensely grateful that you've chosen to be part of the BrailleDoodle family. As we've emphasized many times before, you're not just customers; you're the ones breathing life into the BrailleDoodle! Warm regards, The TouchPad Pro Team    —   The new Owners of Voice Dream Reader (Applause) Backs down from Subscription   Model for Everyone    Good to see what overwhelming feedback can do.   https://applevis.com/forum/ios-ipados/applause-have-backed-down-purchased-voicedream-features-will-stay     Review of the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses   Interesting, these glasses are getting closer and closer to what Envision are Orcam are doing, but only for $550 or so Australian.   https://applevis.com/podcasts/review-ray-ban-meta-smart-glasses   My Chat on Studio One Fromm VA Radio Re AI and how it Would Assist Blind or Low Vision Folks   50 minute or so tech chat about AI.   https://omny.fm/shows/studio1/a-i   Trying Out my Zoom H4 Essential with the BTA1 Connection to my iPhone Via the H4 Essential Control App As the file list on the H4 is still inaccessible via the internal guide voice, this app gives you full access to the file list and other functions of the H4 including being able to remote control it via the app say in the case of using it for lectures. Note - there is also an app for the H6 Essential, but not for the H1.   https://apps.apple.com/au/app/h4essential-control/id646717678Support this Vision Australia Radio program: https://www.visionaustralia.org/donate?src=radio&type=0&_ga=2.182040610.46191917.1644183916-1718358749.1627963141See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Product Minute: 10 inch Digital Clock with 30 Alarm Reminders   Excellent bed side or wall mounted large print clock. One thing that my wife holds on to, is our clock on the wall at home so she can just glance at the time when she needs to.   https://shop.visionaustralia.org/10-inch-digital-clock-with-30-alarm-reminders.html   Another Update from CSUN Conference 2024, Sony   A lot more than just the PS5.   Google IO for May 14 2024   AI, and new hardware.   https://www.techradar.com/computing/software/google-io-2024   Apple WWDC for June 10 2024   AI and new hardware.   https://www.theverge.com/2024/3/26/24111331/apple-wwdc-2024-event-date-ai-artificial-intelligence-m4-ios-18     Wearables and Ethics   End the program today with a chat about wearables, particularly ones that use camera’s and what responsibilities users have to using them.Support this Vision Australia Radio program: https://www.visionaustralia.org/donate?src=radio&type=0&_ga=2.182040610.46191917.1644183916-1718358749.1627963141See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Product Minute: Zoomax Snow 12 Inch video magnifier with Speech (more than half price)   Very handy portable tablet sized video magnifier and OCR print reading device.   https://shop.visionaustralia.org/zoomax-snow-12-with-speech-magnifier.html   A Chat About the new BT Speak and bt Speak Pro   Note taker or note taker and full desktop.   My Demo:   https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/2d3u25/BTSpeak_Pro_demo6d30p.mp3    Blazie Tech Website:   https://www.blazietech.com   Zoom H4 Essential Thoughts for My Usage   Odd for me at the moment, going back to my Zoom Podtrak P4. I think I got caught up with accessibility, and not looking at my current functionality with the difference between the P4 and the H4 Essential.   Humanware Announces V2.2 for Brailliant and Mantis    V2.2 - single USB or BT terminal mode, and better power management.   Aira Announces Beta  of Access AI Feature for Photos   AI will tell you what it thinks is in a photo, and a human will verify.   https://aira.io/aira-announces-new-access-ai-feature-at-csun/   ARX Vision 1.5 Joins up with Microsoft Seeing AI on Android (limited release)   Interesting to see how this new version of the ARX Vision goes with the power of Seeing AI and Navilense on Android. I still have some concerns about scene detection and object recognition. Like Chat AI systems, don’t rely 100 percent on what you are being told smile.     Pre-Order the Braille emotion from HIMS   New updated version of their note taker.   https://hims-inc.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Braille-eMotion-Brochure-DIGITAL.pdfSupport this Vision Australia Radio program: https://www.visionaustralia.org/donate?src=radio&type=0&_ga=2.182040610.46191917.1644183916-1718358749.1627963141See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Talking Tech show notes for March 19 2024 Product minute: Manual Braille Labeller.   Nice to have around to simply label stuff in Braille.   https://shop.visionaustralia.org/reizen-rl-350-braille-labeller.html   My Concerns of Using Hable One with Android   Some of the Hable One commands simply do not  work on my Samsung Z Flip 3. Folks on the web have said it does work, and it doesn’t work on their Android devices, so I think it is one of those Android things where openness leads to issues. I would suggest folks try the Hable One on your own Android device before purchase. However, works fine on my iPhone, and you’ll find a demo of it on my podcast feed.   https://davidwoodbr.podbean.com/e/hable-one-description-pairing-and-basic-navigation-on-iphone-with-voiceover/   My and Stephen’s Thoughts of using the Zoom H1 Essential Recorder    Overall we decided great device. However, just because it’s “accessible” doesn’t mean you don’t have to learn how to use the device to get the most out of it. Check out the excellent tutorial done by Jonathan Mosen on they Living Blindfully podcast for the Zoom H1 Essential Recorder.   Only 3 Years, And My AirPods Max Has Died   Considering how expensive they were, and only purchased in Dec 2020. Off this week to see how much the battery will cost to be exchanged.   Good Stop Watch App for Your Mac   Great to keep track of timed events: recording podcasts, radio shows etc.   https://apps.apple.com/au/app/good-stopwatch/id1268456701?mt=12   How to Turn Off Predictive Text in Mac OS   Nice little quick tip podcast from Applevis.   https://applevis.com/podcasts/how-disable-predictive-text-suggestions-macos   You Can Access Google Gemini Via a Webpage at:   https://gemini.google.com    NBN Upgrade for Aussie’s Towards the End of the Year 2024     With increased data usage, people in Australia want faster data, and it looks like we will get it towards the end of the year based on an article from The Age a few weeks ago.Support this Vision Australia Radio program: https://www.visionaustralia.org/donate?src=radio&type=0&_ga=2.182040610.46191917.1644183916-1718358749.1627963141See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Talking Tech for March 12 2024 Product Minute from the Vision Store   Code Jumper - a great way to teach students coding through physical play.   https://shop.visionaustralia.org/code-jumper.html   A Reminder for CSUN 2024 Number 39 March 18 to 24 2024   I’m really looking forward to this years 39TH conference, especially in the realm of AI.   https://www.csun.edu/cod/conference/sessions/index.php/?gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIi9fA3O3ghAMV0-MWBR1mrQO1EAAYASAAEgIbrvD_BwE   Some Very Interesting JAWS, and Fusion Updates for March 2024   Picture Smart AI for me is the outstanding feature in this JAWS update, using the power of AI to fully describe images on a social media page or in. A file on your pC.   https://blog.freedomscientific.com/the-march-update-to-fusion-suite-2024-is-here/   Fantastic interview with Dean Blazie from Blazie Technologies with Jonathan Mosen    Sometimes nice to see how things workout for folks, and how things came to be.   https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/blindness-technology-icon-deane-blazie-goes-down-memory/id973360653?i=1000648103827   Braille Web Word Puzzle Game   This web based Braille word puzzle game by guessing the number of dots to make up a word is fun -      https://www.themisgames.com/brailliance/   What I believe Should be Labelled as a Bug with the Envision AI app on BSC2   If the BSC@ folks know that Google sign in on the BSC2 doesn’t work, then why let Envision AI app for the BSC2 offer it?   Apple Releases iOS and iPad OS 17.4   For me the outstanding feature for iOS 17.4 for us outside of the EU is the transcription option now in Apple Podcasts where you can jump and start listening to a spot in the podcast transcribed text, not to mention the accessibility for people who are deaf blind.   https://applevis.com/blog/apple-releases-ios-174-ipados-174-new-emoji-podcast-transcripts-major-changes-eu   Mac OS 10.4, TV OS 10.4, and Watch OS 10.4 Released   Nothing earth shattering for accessibility. However, in Mac OS, you now have the option in VO Utility for the Left/Right QuickNav option to toggle on Single key QuickNav as well as QuickNav itself.   https://applevis.com/blog/apple-releases-macos-sonoma-144-watchos-104-tvos-174   Apple Also Quietly Released 10 new Accessories   Watch bands, iPhone cases, and a welkin stand for the Apple TV 4K to enhance using your iPhone as a camera when on FaceTime calls.   https://www.zdnet.com/articl e/best-iphone-accessories/ Support this Vision Australia Radio program: https://www.visionaustralia.org/donate?src=radio&type=0&_ga=2.182040610.46191917.1644183916-1718358749.1627963141See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

My First Colouring Book    Yes I no not Tech related grin. I’m really looking forward to trying this out with my Grandson.   https://shop.visionaustralia.org/my-first-colouring-book-animals.html   Loop Ear Buds   Various ear buds for different  Environments simply using acoustic filters.   https://www.amazon.com.au/s?me=A1CVBR8PLBYTJC&marketplaceID=A39IBJ37TRP1C6   Amazon Echo Pop, new Echo    No Thanks, simply not impressed.   https://www.amazon.com.au/Introducing-sound-compact-speaker-Charcoal/dp/B09WXH9BH7   The Blind Podmaker, Jonathan Mosen's review of the Zoom H6Essential recorder   Jonathan Mosen begins his reviews of all three recorders in the Essential series.    The h6Essential is the most capable member of the series, providing six tracks of recording, interchangeable microphone capsules, 32 bit float, a playback mixer, audio interface capability and more.   Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-blind-podmaker/id1560929891?i=1000647718635   NB all 3 demos of the H6, H4, and H1 now complete.   Using a Microphone for Speech Recognition    Simply, better mic, better experience with voice dictation, and voice control.   https://abilitynet.org.uk/news-blogs/new-microphone-invented-speech-recognition?utm_source=toptechtidbits&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=02292024&utm_term=editorial   Envision Ai Now on the BSC2.   In some ways, still the challenge of object recognition.Support this Vision Australia Radio program: https://www.visionaustralia.org/donate?src=radio&type=0&_ga=2.182040610.46191917.1644183916-1718358749.1627963141See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hable one   Yes it is in the web shop now.   Here are some notes I wrote about the Hable one, then you’ll find the link to the shop page. Product description:   Hable One is an external braille keyboard designed for people who are blind or have low vision to use and navigate their smartphone or tablet (iOS or Android)with ease. No installation is needed – just pair it to your smart device via Bluetooth and start Brailling (Android or iOS will be auto detected if first time paired)..   Physical description: TOP 6 Braille round keys laid out in standard Braille cell formation. Key 7 next to keys 23 on left, and key 8 next to keys 56 on right (both 7 and 8 are long keys)..   Front On/off slider switch. Left edge front - slot to attach wrist strap. Back USBC port. Bottom 4 rubber stoppers at each corner to stop sliding on surface.   Features Works with both iPhone and android phones/tablets. Easily held in the hands. Update via Hable app (free).. Compact 8 Braille key design. Easy to remember  Braille keyboard commands. One handed mode available for major functions. Menu within Hable one gives easy access to other functions: such as Switch Braille keys, one hand mode, and battery status. Switch Braille keyboard input orientation for user preference via menu.. With Bluetooth head phones, never need to take phone out of pocket: secure and safe usage. Lock and unlock device with keyboard. Easily answer/hang up phone calls. Use physical keys when typing numbers in to an automated system. Launch personal assistant or dictation. Quicly respond to a mesage in a noisy environment.. Easily Navigate to, and check info in apps. Start/stop media playing. Braille extended emails, notes, etc. Replicate all screen reader functions (Talkback Android and VoiceOver iPhone). Easily  check battery status via menu. 3 hours to charge internal battery via UsB, 50 hours usage.   Tips: By default, the Braille keys on the Hable One will be upside down as you are holding the device against you with the keys facing away. If you feel the keyboard laying on a table with the on/off  button closest to you: Dot keys 14 and 36 are switched. Your fingers when holding the Hable One will be on the correct keys, although it may not feel like it. You can switch the orientation if you like via the Hable menu.   Hable one menu  - all 6 cell main keys (123456).   When in menu,  (one command for each menu activation). X (1436) - switch Braille keys orientation. Lower c (36) - check battery status, vibrations denote charge level, 1 low 3 high. 1 - switch to Android. 2 - switch to iOS.   If originally paired to iOS or Android, use Hable menu to switch to other operating system.   Various languages available chosen via the Hable menu.     Multiple device pairing not currently available.   Examples of keyboard navigation:   Hold 7 then press 8 - move to the next item. Hold 8 then press 7 - move to the previous item. Press 36 - activate current item.   As there is no: Space bar - key 8. Enter key - keys 18. And so on.   In the Box: Hable One. USBC to USBA cable. Braille card with link to manuals. Wrist strap.   Dimensions: Hight: 0.8CM. Length : 10CM. Width: 4.6CM.  Weight: 0.36KG.   Check it out on the shop page or in the store.   https://shop.visionaustralia.org/hable-one.html   VA connect the vision Australia library    I thought it was timely for a reminder that the Vision Australia Library is for anyone with a print disability as well as being blind or having low vision. To access the library once you have joined,  The Va Connect app for both Android and iOS works well giving you access to daisy audio books, newspapers, magazines, and podcasts from the Vision Australia Radio service (including Talking Tech).   https://www.visionaustralia.org/services/library   Rice is Not Included in Apple Support document for a Wet iPhone   Yes, it is a myth, so don’t even do it if you have an Android phone smile.   https://www.theverge.com/2024/2/19/24077532/apple-support-document-wet-iphone-no-rice   Google Spotted Making a Move towards Seamless Updates   So rather than a big update for your Samsung phone, updates would happen seamlessly which some manufacturers don’t like.   https://www.androidcentral.com/apps-software/android-may-only-support-seamless-updates   The Future of AI Smart Phones   We use to worry about the power of our PC to run Assistive Tech, now it’s the power of our mobile devices to run AI and AGI in the future.   https://blogs.idc.com/2024/02/19/the-future-of-next-gen-ai-smartphones/   Foxtel Hubbl is it something useful   You probably know what the answer is for accessibility, of course not sigh smile. Plus the fact smart TVS do the same thing as well as Fire TV, Apple TV etc.   https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2024/feb/24/doesnt-my-tv-already-do-this-is-hubbl-a-foxtel-thought-bubble-or-worth-the-troubleSupport this Vision Australia Radio program: https://www.visionaustralia.org/donate?src=radio&type=0&_ga=2.182040610.46191917.1644183916-1718358749.1627963141See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

News From the Vision Store: Vision Store Parramatta Closed Feb 21 to April 22 Due to Building Renovations.   As of February 29, Vision Store no longer selling Apple products.   Product Spot Light: Mini Guide.   One of my most longest used sonar type devices for obstacle detection.   https://shop.visionaustralia.org/miniguide-ultrasonic-echo-location-detector.html   Products that I will be investigating:   Ultra Cane. Sonar Glasses.   Object Detection with LIDAR on iPhone 12 Pro and Above   Note I said Object Detection and not object recognition which as far as I'm concerned still has a long way to go.   Humanware and JAWS using Split View Braille   Great to see this: being able to monitor 2 separate things at the same time with a Braille display.   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fei3VC_DiWY   From Six Colours, Vision Pro Accessibility in the Real(ish)  World   Excellent article about the current state and perhaps future possibilities for the Vision Pro for blind or low vision   https://sixcolors.com/post/2024/02/vision-pro-accessibility-in-the-realish-world/Support this Vision Australia Radio program: https://www.visionaustralia.org/donate?src=radio&type=0&_ga=2.182040610.46191917.1644183916-1718358749.1627963141See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.