Double Tap

In this episode of the Double Tap podcast, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discussed a range of topics. They began by talking about the Zero Project Conference and their experiences at the event, including discussions about accessible banking with Penny Roberts from Bankability. They then explored the work of .lumen, which has developed glasses to empower the blind and partially sighted community through self-driving technology. The hosts interviewed Cornel Amarei, the CEO and founder of .lumen, who explained the company's mission and groundbreaking technology. The episode also delved into the world of accessible navigation, discussing a new app called WaveOut developed by DreamWaves. The hosts, along with guest Hugo from DreamWaves, explored the concept of spatial audio navigation and its potential benefits for blind or partially sighted users. Additionally, the episode touched on the challenges of app development, including issues with battery drain and overheating in GPS-dependent apps.

In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discussed the Zero Project Conference in Vienna and the technology and services mentioned there. The episode revolved around the topics of Hable, Google accessibility, and eye tracking technology. The hosts delved into the new Hable 2 and explored its features, the challenges related to its cost and manufacture, and the company's efforts to bring the product to a broader audience. The conversation focused on the importance of keeping the device simple and user-friendly, with the goal of making it accessible to everyone. They also discussed the significance of Hable's unique design and multi-modal functions, and the company's commitment to creating content and training programs to promote awareness and usability of accessibility tools. The hosts also spoke with Christopher Patnoe from Google about the tech giant's commitment to ethical AI and accessibility. They discussed Google's Gemini AI model, the potential risks and benefits of AI for accessibility, and the importance of thoughtful ethical design and inclusivity. Moreover, the episode featured a conversation with Eduardo Jauregui from Irisbond about the advancements in eye-tracking technology and their potential applications for people with disabilities, such as those with ALS or cerebral palsy. The discussion highlighted the main features of the Hable 2 and the company's commitment to expanding its capabilities, with a focus on making the device more affordable and user-friendly. The hosts also hinted at exciting updates coming soon and emphasized the company's commitment to working closely with the community to ensure that their feedback shapes the future of Hable devices, ultimately providing accessible and empowering tools for everyone.

In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece cover a range of topics related to disability, technology, and innovation. They speak with Dr. Anthony Giannoumis, who runs a company called Scaling Solutions, which aims to help members of the disability community start businesses. They discuss how the company is using new technology to help visually impaired individuals learn Braille. They also explore the concept of Scaling Solutions and the way it connects different disability communities around the world, breaking down market barriers and expanding the reach of disability innovations. The hosts also interview Gwen Birchall, who is involved in technology development for the disabled community, and Mark Walker from AbilityNet, a UK charity that works on disability technology. They discuss the Zero Project conference and its focus on disability and assistive technology, as well as the importance of legislation and regulation in driving improvements in accessibility. The conversation also touches on inclusive advertising and the representation of disability in media, and the potential impact of politics and government policies on disability rights and inclusion. They discuss AI and the responsible use of technology in relation to disability, and the ongoing work being done by organizations like AbilityNet to support members of the disability community through technology and education.

In this episode of the Double Tap AMI-audio podcast, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece revisit Vienna's Zero Project conference and explore exclusive nuggets from the event. They interview various individuals, including Rama from the Royal College of Art in London, who highlights the importance of inclusive and accessible design. They also speak with Celestine from Nairobi, Kenya, who discusses the challenges members of the disability community face in Africa and the need for greater awareness and accessibility. The hosts also chat with Jakob from Estonia, who represents Sparrow Access, an organization involved in accessibility consulting and advocacy work for the blind and partially sighted. Jakob shares the unique challenges and innovations in digital government services in Estonia and emphasizes the importance of community and international collaboration in promoting accessibility and inclusivity. Throughout the episode, the hosts discuss the need for a global conversation on accessibility, share anecdotes from their interviews, and highlight the impact of innovative and inclusive design on the lives of members of the disability community. The episode sheds light on the unique challenges faced in different countries and the ongoing efforts to create inclusive and accessible environments for all individuals.

In this podcast episode, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece revisit the Zero Project conference in Vienna, focusing on the main topics discussed and the insights shared by various guests. The episode begins with an overview of the Zero Project conference and its purpose of highlighting innovations that support the lives and rights of people with disabilities. The hosts then delve into the significance of technology and ICT-based solutions in the disability community, emphasizing the impact and potential of technology in shaping global change. Throughout the episode, the hosts conduct interviews with various guests, such as Michael Fembek, the director of the Zero Project conference, and Andrew Cho, the CEO of Sensee Books. They address the accessibility of children's books for visually impaired children, the challenges members of the disability community face in the UK, and the importance of diverse representation and inclusion. The podcast also discusses the role of large-scale events like the Zero Project conference in facilitating international collaboration, sharing knowledge, and promoting inclusivity. The conversation touches on the significance of storytelling and advocacy in raising awareness and driving change. The hosts conclude the episode by highlighting the importance of technological solutions for creating accessible documents and the impact of AI in improving accessibility. They also emphasize the relevance of the Zero Project conference in providing a platform for individuals and organizations to share their experiences and address important issues related to disability rights and inclusion. Overall, the episode covers a wide range of topics, from the role of technology in promoting disability rights to the challenges and opportunities faced by the disability community on a global scale. The conversations offer valuable insights into the ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and accessible world for people with disabilities.

In this episode of Double Tap on YouTube hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive into the world of keyboards, specifically focusing on a unique product that brings the tactile typing experience back to modern smartphones. They interview Jeff Gadway from Clicks Tech, discussing the innovative keyboard accessory for iPhones that mimics the beloved BlackBerry keyboard. This product, showcased at CES, has garnered attention for its potential benefits, especially within the blind and visually impaired community. Jeff shares the backstory of Kliqs, highlighting the blend of expertise from consumer technology and specialist tech products that brought this idea to life. The conversation shifts gears to discuss Braille and its significance for blind and partially sighted individuals. They bring in Jake from the Perkins School for the Blind, who shares his journey with Braille and its impact on his education and future career aspirations. The conversation emphasizes the importance of Braille literacy, the challenges of accessing Braille education, and the role of technology in enhancing Braille learning. Lastly, the hosts explore the latest features in Android 15, focusing on accessibility improvements like fingerprint unlock guidance for visually impaired users and enhanced support for Braille displays. They discuss how these updates aim to make Android devices more accessible and user-friendly for the blind and visually impaired community. Get ahead of the conversation and check out the Double Tap YouTube channel every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday on the platform which you can find using this link: [https://www.youtube.com/@DoubleTapVideo]

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece get ready to take a break for the holidays, promising a lineup of great episodes for May. Listeners' emails bring up various topics, including sighted assumptions leading to a funny misunderstanding at work, the usability of the AI assistant Pi, and concerns over TikTok's influence and data privacy. They also discuss the all-terrain cane and its potential new version and share personal stories and tips for enjoying nature and ensuring safety. The episode wraps up with a heartfelt appreciation for the Double Tap team, especially Grace and Laura, who play crucial roles behind the scenes. The hosts express gratitude to the entire AMI team and their listeners, setting a warm and inclusive tone for the show's community. Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us across social media.

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven Scott flies solo but brings on a special guest, Kate Crohan, a seasoned teacher for children at Perkins School for the Blind. Their conversation delves deep into the world of Braille, exploring its significance, challenges, and future. Kate shares her extensive experience, from her early days teaching newly visually impaired adults at the Carroll Center for the Blind to her current role at Perkins. They discuss the emotional and practical aspects of learning Braille, particularly its role in accepting vision loss and gaining independence. Kate emphasizes the importance of Braille beyond just reading books; it's about labelling, navigating public spaces, and even personal enjoyment, like creating drawings or enjoying tactile jewelry. The discussion also touches on the challenges of teaching Braille, the debate between QWERTY and Perkins keyboards, and the role of technology in enhancing Braille literacy. Steven and Kate explore the concern that audio might overshadow the need for Braille, but they also see technology as a beacon of hope for its future. They stress the importance of Braille for employment and independence, especially for individuals with additional disabilities like hearing loss. The conversation concludes with a promotion of an upcoming YouTube interview with Jake, a student at Perkins School for the Blind, who shares his connection to Braille and his aspirations for the future. Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us on social media.

In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive into two exciting tech developments that are making waves in the world of accessible technology. First up, they discuss the much-anticipated arrival of Audible support on the Victor Reader Stream 3, a feature that has been eagerly awaited by the blind and partially sighted community. This update not only brings Audible books to the device but also introduces several quality-of-life improvements, such as sorting books in alphabetical order on the bookshelf, faster SD card loading times, and a suspend mode to save battery life and speed up wake times. The update signifies a significant leap forward in making digital reading more accessible and enjoyable for users. The second big story is the launch of Meta AI in the UK, a development that has the hosts buzzing with excitement. Steven shares his firsthand experience with the Meta Ray-Ban glasses, demonstrating their ability to provide instant, accurate descriptions of his surroundings, from identifying a Rodecaster Pro audio mixer to recognizing a "phone banish box." The glasses not only offer a groundbreaking way for users to interact with their environment through AI but also introduce the possibility of video calls using the glasses' built-in camera. As they wrap up, the hosts touch on other tech updates, including new features for Zoom recorders that enhance accessibility for users who are blind or partially sighted, and the anticipation around the Kliks keyboard, a device that promises to bring back the tactile typing experience reminiscent of BlackBerry keyboards. Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us on social media.

In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive into a variety of tech topics, kicking off with an apology from Steven to Apple users for potentially causing a widespread need to reset Apple IDs - the conversation takes a humorous turn as they speculate on the cause and impact. They then shift to discussing the implications of passwords in today's digital age, advocating for the adoption of passkeys as a more convenient and secure alternative to traditional passwords. The episode also delves into the practicality of iPads for users who are blind, debating whether the device's screen real estate and iPadOS offer a substantially different experience from iPhones for VoiceOver users. The conversation takes an exciting turn with listener Gregg Hayes' detailed review of the Meta Ray-Ban glasses. Gregg, who has access to the AI features not yet available in the UK where Steven and Shaun live, demonstrates the glasses' capabilities, including asking for the weather, identifying objects, and navigating a strip mall with voice commands. He highlights how the glasses integrate with social media, music services, and enable hands-free operation, making them a potential game-changer for users who are blind or partially sighted. Gregg's review sparks a discussion on the future of specialized devices, as mainstream products like the Meta Ray-Ban glasses begin to offer similar functionalities at a more affordable price. Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us on social media.

In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive into an array of topics which lead into an insightful discussion on Tape It, a recorder app designed initially for musicians but has found a niche within the blind and partially sighted community. The creators of Tape It hadn't initially focused on accessibility, but after receiving feedback from a Canadian user who is blind, they realized the app's potential for a broader audience. This led them to learn about and implement VoiceOver features, significantly improving the app's usability for users. Steven talks to Thomas Walther, co-founder of the app, to chat about how Tape It harnesses the iPhone microphones to deliver high-quality audio recordings. Thomas also shares the journey of discovering the blind community's interest in the app and the steps taken to make it more accessible. Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us on social media.

This week on Double Tap on YouTube, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive into the world of gaming accessibility, a topic that's gaining momentum and sparking conversations among gamers with disabilities. The episode shines a spotlight on the Game Accessibility Conference happening in London, underscoring its significance in bringing together voices and innovations in the field. Also, Steven and Shaun discuss the rise of AI for assistance apps like Aira's new Access AI feature. They ponder the words of Aira CEO, Troy Otillio, who spoke to them recently about the new feature, what sets it apart and how privacy concerns can be eased. Plus they discuss the impact of a new service like this on already stretched staff within the Aira call centre. Plus there's the chance to find out about Lenovo's innovations. The company's Senior Technologist for the UK and Ireland, Graham Thomas, speaks to Steven about their new accessibility features being built into the keyboard. They also discuss broader accessibility, diversity and inclusion that is inspiring their latest computer designs. Get ahead of the conversation and check out the Double Tap YouTube channel every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday on the platform which you can find using this link: [https://www.youtube.com/@DoubleTapVideo]

In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive into a variety of topics, starting with Shaun's rant about the challenges of navigating trash day in the UK, which cleverly segues into a discussion about the newly announced WeWalk Smart Cane. They explore how this smart cane could potentially make navigating the streets easier for visually impaired individuals, especially on days when obstacles like bins and parked cars make mobility a challenge. The episode includes a detailed breakdown of the WeWalk Smart Cane's presentation, with audio clips from the event that describe the cane's functionality and the technology behind it. The hosts express their intrigue and optimism about the potential of the smart cane, while also acknowledging the importance of hands-on training to fully utilize its features. Furthermore, they touch on the significance of data and AI in enhancing mobility aids, mentioning how the WeWalk Smart Cane could collect useful data for orientation and mobility specialists to monitor and improve users' navigation skills. There's also more comment from Negative Julian about the use of on-board AI on devices, with further explanation offered by Steven and Shaun. Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us across social media.

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive into a mix of technology news and listener feedback. They discuss the potential TikTok ban in the US, with President Biden signing a law that requires TikTok's Chinese owner, ByteDance, to divest the app to a US owner or face a ban. The hosts express skepticism about the security concerns driving the ban, questioning the evidence of TikTok sharing user data with the Chinese government and discussing the broader implications of such a move on social media and mental health. The episode also touches on the launch of WeWalk's new smart cane, sparking a debate about the involvement of the visually impaired community in the development of assistive technologies. Steven emphasizes the importance of engaging with the community to avoid pitfalls and create genuinely useful products. Listener feedback includes a voicemail from Stan, who shares his experience with the RecUp app and recounts a challenging train journey, highlighting the importance of accessibility and safety in transportation. Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us across social media.

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive into a variety of topics, including an upcoming Apple event, the arrival of Meta AI in Canada, and a new AR headset designed for people with macular degeneration. The conversation shifts to the Double Tap team's plans for a month-long holiday, stirring a mix of excitement and the promise of staying "off the grid," despite past attempts that often ended with staying connected. The discussion emphasizes the importance of taking a break from the constant influx of tech news, especially with the rapid developments in AI. The episode then moves into the latest tech news, starting with speculation about the new iPads expected to be announced at the next Apple "Let Loose" event. They ponder the evolution of the iPad lineup and express a desire for a device that combines the functionality of a MacBook with the portability of an iPad, sparking a discussion on the ideal form factor for portable computing. Meta AI's expansion into Canada is another highlight, with Steven and Shaun expressing their excitement over the potential of smart glasses that offer real-time visual assistance and the ability to make video calls through WhatsApp and Messenger. The episode also features an interview by Allison Sheridan from the NosillaCast podcast with Mitchell Freeman from Ocutrx, discussing an AR headset designed to aid individuals with macular degeneration. The technology's potential to significantly improve the quality of life for those affected by central vision loss is explored, showcasing an innovative use of AR in accessibility. Finally, the hosts address a voicemail from a listener, Negative Julian, who seeks clarification on the concept of on-device AI. Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us on social media.

In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece kick things off with listener feedback, starting with Tom from Colorado who shares his insights on WhatsApp video messaging on Android, contrasting it with iOS. Tom also suggests the hosts consider using WhatsApp for listener interactions, highlighting the ease of sending audio and potentially video feedback directly through the app. Another listener, Shahzad, praises the Double Tap team for their engaging content and mentions the potential of kiosks in fast food restaurants for independent ordering by customers who are blind or partially sighted. Later, the episode covers a review of the All-Terrain Cane by a listener named Ron from Houston. Ron provides a detailed analysis of the cane's pros and cons, discussing its design, durability, weight, and how it compares to traditional white canes. He also raises concerns about the cane's visibility as a symbol of blindness, given its colour scheme which deviates from the traditional white. Listeners also contribute suggestions for navigating short distances outside, like taking out the trash and using apps like VoiceVista, Soundscape and NaviLens. These suggestions highlight the blend of technology and traditional orientation and mobility (O&M) techniques in aiding visually impaired individuals in their daily activities. The episode wraps up with discussions on European train travel accessibility and the challenges faced by travellers, emphasizing the variability in assistance across different countries and networks. Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us on social media.

In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss Apple's decision to end the production of fine woven cases and watch bands, citing customer feedback on their lack of durability and premium feel. The episode also touches on the anticipation and speculation around Apple's future chip developments, specifically the transition from the M3 to the M4 processor in the Mac mini. A personal story from Steven about updating his old Lenovo laptop brings up frustrations with Windows updates and the complexities of Windows licensing and versioning. This sparks a debate on the simplicity and user-friendliness of operating systems, with a call for Microsoft to consider a more streamlined approach for consumers. Listener emails bring attention to ongoing issues with cinema accessibility, particularly the unreliable provision of audio description services. The hosts share their own experiences and frustrations, emphasizing the need for better training and awareness among cinema staff to improve the movie-going experience for patrons. Another listener raises concerns about the potential risks associated with new smart mobility aids like the Glidance system, especially in scenarios where drivers might not notice a blind person crossing the street. This highlights the broader challenges of navigating public spaces safely with assistive technology. Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us on social media.

This week on Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Sean Preece, along with guest Robin Christopherson from AbilityNet, start by diving into the innovative world of AI-powered devices, specifically focusing on the Rabbit R1. This device, highlighted at the Consumer Electronics Show, stands out for its unique capabilities, including its integration with large action models, which allow it to interact with third-party services and websites without formal collaborations. Also there's a chat about the new app called Project Tapestry that is now fully funded on Kickstarter. The app will allow people to bring their social media and their RSS news feeds together into one easy-to-use app. Iconfactory is the company behind the app and we spoke to the developer Gedeon Mayheux. And there's a chance to catch up with your feedback from previous episodes of Double Tap on YouTube. Get ahead of the conversation and check out the Double Tap YouTube channel every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday on the platform which you can find using this link: [https://www.youtube.com/@DoubleTapVideo]

In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece cover a variety of topics, starting with an update on Seleste glasses and big news for YouTube users of third-party apps. The discussion begins with Seleste Glasses, focusing on the company's decision to drop the Wi-Fi component in their next iteration for better battery life and a slimmer design, leading to the dropping of real-time video. However, an email from the CEO of Seleste sent to Double Tap clarifies that real-time video streaming might still be possible through Bluetooth, similar to Meta Ray bands streaming to Instagram. The conversation explores the technical challenges of streaming clear, uninterrupted video feeds wirelessly, which is crucial for applications like Aira. Next, the hosts discuss YouTube's enforcement of third-party apps that block ads, highlighting the importance of advertisements in supporting creators and the platform. They express concerns about apps like Accessible YouTube Downloader Pro, which bypass ads, potentially violating YouTube's terms of service. The discussion emphasizes the need for these apps to comply with YouTube's policies to ensure creators are compensated for their work. Listener emails add further debate to the episode, covering topics from the importance of learning Braille and touch typing to personal experiences with self-consciousness due to physical appearance. A listener correction about the first Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant's location sparks a light-hearted moment. The episode concludes with an encouragement for listener participation, inviting them to share stories, reviews, and feedback, emphasizing the inclusive nature of the Double Tap community. Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us on social media.

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece delve into a variety of tech topics, maintaining their usual blend of humour and insight. They kick off by discussing their current health woes, sharing a light-hearted banter about colds and the remedies they've attempted. The conversation then shifts to a more tech-focused discussion, starting with Elijah's review of the Celeste glasses. This segment offers listeners a detailed look into the features, user experience, and potential of the Celeste glasses, a piece of accessible technology designed to aid users. Elijah's review is thorough, covering everything from the design and setup process to the app's main features like text scanning, scene description, and the smart assistant. He also touches on the practical aspects such as battery life, connectivity, and the potential for future third-party app integration, providing a comprehensive overview that could be valuable for anyone considering this technology. Throughout the episode, the hosts also engage with listener feedback on various topics. They discuss the potential of Tesla's self-driving technology, comparing it to Waymo, and explore the challenges and advancements in accessible navigation aids for people who are blind or partially sighted. The discussion is enriched by input from listeners who share their experiences, opinions, and even life hacks for navigating the world. One notable segment involves a listener's query about finding a practical solution for navigating from a building to a dumpster across a courtyard without a clear shoreline or guidance system. This prompts a broader discussion on the current state and future possibilities of outdoor navigation aids, highlighting the real-world challenges faced by people who are partially sighted. Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us across social media.