Double Tap

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven and Shaun discuss the availability of new gadgets from Sight & Sound Technology, Steven's transition to Windows, and the importance of learning different modes and shortcuts. Listener emails open up a range of discussions on various topics related to accessible technology including fitness trackers, blood pressure monitors, the Mini Guide device, and the value of companionship provided by guide dogs. There's also an in depth chat with Stuart Lawler and Graeme Marden from Sight and Sound Technology in the UK. They join Steven to discuss the new Braille eMotion braille display from HIMS, the new Orbit Slate multi-line braille display and the new WeWalk Smart Cane 2 launching in October. They also discuss ongoing deals with the JAWS screen reader for users in the UK who don't have access to the Home User license available in other countries. 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.

On today's show Steven and Shaun discuss their experiences with their new dogs and the joy they bring to their lives. They also talk about the new line of Barbie dolls that represent different disabilities, including blindness. Steven shares his recent purchases of Microsoft accessories, including the Microsoft Audio Dock and USB-C speaker. Steven is also joined by content creator Claire Sisk, who is blind, to discuss the new blind Barbie and the importance of representation in toys. They explore the potential impact of blind Barbie in educating children about disabilities and breaking stereotypes. Regular contributor Gregg in Arizona joins the chat to share his thoughts on the All Terrain Cane, Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses and the Rabbit R1. The conversation continues with a voicemail from a listener asking for tips on how to download Shaun's podcast. 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, Steven and Shaun discuss the upcoming release of Google's new Chromecast device and iRobot's Roomba Combo 10 Max robot vacuum and mop. There's also listener emails commenting on Steven's alleged bias towards Apple devices and his negative portrayal of Android smartphone which he challenges, and Grandpa Peter from the South of England shares the different ways he uses his iPhone SE. Plus there's lots of talk about keyboards shortcuts including a new one for JAWS' Picture Smart feature, and a hidden keyboard shortcut for enabling the screen curtain in NVDA. 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 and Shaun discuss the return of Google Glass, Shaun's experience setting up an Apple TV 4K, and Steven's discovery of Copilot on his PC. They also share a listener's song dedicated to the Double Tap team from listener Brian that is a love letter to the audience and our email reader Laura. The hosts also explore the popularity of the Meta Ray-Bans and the potential for innovation in the smart glasses market. They also touch on the battery life of smart glasses and the importance of brand recognition. 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, Steven and Shaun discuss the controversy surrounding the use of the term "visually impaired," and the different perspectives within the blind community. They explore the importance of language and how it can shape perceptions and attitudes towards blindness. They also discuss employment opportunities for people with disabilities and the challenges they face, and when they finally get round to talking tech, they chat about the Seleste smart glasses, the Beats Pill speaker, and accessible blood pressure monitors. There's also mention of the Blink video doorbell and an invite to listeners to share their experiences with accessible doorbells. 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 on YouTube, Steven and Shaun discuss the latest Samsung devices, including new Samsung devices, the newly released Amazon Echo Spot and the need for improved audio description on TV and film. The conversation begins with a focus on the Samsung Galaxy Ring, the new Fold and Flip devices, and the new watches and earbuds from the South Korean company. The guys talk about the similarities and competition between Samsung and Apple, as well as the advancements in wearable technology, such as the smart ring for health tracking. They also touch on the potential for improved audio description with Robin Christopherson offering his personal view that AD leaves blind viewers with "the crumbs" when it comes to understanding what is happening on screen. Robin also chats with Steven and Shaun about the release of the Amazon Echo Spot, leading to a discussion on the future of AI and subscription models for voice assistants such as Alexa. 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 and Shaun talk to retired judge David Tatel, author of the new book, "Vision, a Memoir of Blindness and Justice." However they start off the episode with the big news of the IT outrage that impacted businesses around the world. The issue seems to be centred around Microsoft's cloud platform, Azure, and a cybersecurity software called Crowdstrike. An update from the security company combined with a failure of Azure systems has led to computers worldwide being forced into recovery mode. It is a developing story and Double Tap has the latest as recorded at 10am UK time on Friday 19th July. In the second part of the show, retired Judge David Tatel shares his journey with retinitis pigmentosa, his career in law, and the challenges he faced with sight loss. The hosts discuss the impact of blindness on David's life and career, exploring themes of acceptance, independence, and the importance of 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 across social media.

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven and Shaun discuss a variety of topics, starting with their recent Amazon Prime Day purchases, exploring the features of the Blink video doorbell and comparing it to other smart doorbell options. The guys also dive into the Inbox to hear your emails and voicemails. They address topics such as the Apple Vision Pro device, the Optacon and MX Keys keyboard, highlighting their functionalities and benefits. The hosts also discuss the importance of accessibility features like PictureSmart in JAWS 2024, which enhances productivity for users who are blind. 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 and Shaun discuss various tech gadgets and innovations showcased at the NFB and ACB conventions. They begin with a series of comments from listeners starting with Negative Julian who laments that Steven and Shaun are stuck in their ways with their thinking on wearable devices, and that they should stop whining about their experiences! Plus there's comment from Glendon and Tom following Julian's remarks about the alternative types of wearables out there to glasses. They also talk with guests Michael Babcock, Jenine Stanley, and Scott, also known as Kayaker, to explore the latest accessible technology including the Orbit Speak device, the Lyric standalone scanning device, the Urban Explorer cane, and the Glide mobility device from Glidance. 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.

On this episode of Double Tap, Steven and Shaun discuss a range of topics including the shocking news that there is now a new colour for Apple's HomePod Mini: midnight. They also discuss the upcoming launch of AMD's Zen 5 AI processors and the differences between x86 and ARM architecture for those who don't know. Shaun also talks about his latest purchase - an Amazon Eero WIFI 6E Pro mesh system - but has it solved his wifi woes? Listener feedback includes discussions on the challenges people who are blind face in medical settings, employment, and social interactions. Remember to check out the Double Tap website for user reviews and more engaging content. 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.

On this episode of Double Tap, Steven and Shaun discuss the latest Samsung devices, including the Z Flip 6, Z Fold 6, Galaxy Watch 7, and Galaxy Watch Ultra, as well as the new Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro. They explore the features and pricing of these devices, as well as the potential for accessibility with TalkBack on Samsung devices. They also discuss the concept of ecosystems, comparing Apple and Samsung ecosystems, and discussing the challenges and advancements in Android smartwatches and their software. Additionally, they address a listener's feedback on WhatsApp usage and voicemail length on the show. 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 on YouTube, Steven and Shaun discuss the visual description app called PiccyBot, how audio description needs to maintain human narration with a leading AD provider, and what they've both been buying ahead of Amazon Prime Day. The conversation begins with the developer of PiccyBot, Martin Van Der Spek. They discuss the app's features, development process, and the impact it has on the blind and low vision community. Martin shares his journey from creating Talking Goggles to developing PiccyBot, emphasizing the importance of recognition software for accessibility. We also learn about the purchases Steven and Shaun have made ahead of Prime Day, including a new laptop for Steven and a new mesh wifi system for Shaun. The conversation moves on to the rise in the use of text-to-speech for audio description and the importance of human-narrated audio description. Eric Wickstrom from the International Digital Centre joins the conversation, highlighting the significance of human-narrated audio description for emotional depth and quality control. The discussion touches on the challenges of balancing cost efficiency with quality in audio description production, as well as the importance of feedback and positive reinforcement in advocating for high-quality audio description services. 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, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece are joined by Brett Hallie, a retired software engineer with a background in working at Apple. Brett shares insights into his journey at Apple, starting from his hardware engineering work with the Apple II to his involvement in the development of software like Mac OS X and Final Cut Pro. He discusses the challenges and successes of transitioning Apple's operating system, the pressure of working under Steve Jobs, and the importance of prioritizing accessibility in software development. Brett highlights the significance of user feedback in improving accessibility features and emphasizes the benefits of making software accessible for all users. He shares his personal experience with VoiceOver and offers advice on approaching software accessibility challenges with patience and a problem-solving mindset. Brett also delves into the culture at Apple, where product excellence was prioritized over short-term financial goals, leading to the company's success. The conversation touches on the evolution of technology, the democratization of video editing through software like Final Cut Pro, and the impact of making products accessible on a broader scale. Brett's insights shed light on the importance of user feedback, creativity in problem-solving, and the long-term benefits of prioritizing product quality over immediate financial gain. 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 and Shaun discussed a variety of topics including the use of inclusive language and new keyboards from Logitech. The concept of inclusive language and its relevance in the disability community makes up a significant portion of the conversation, with the guys sharing personal experiences and insights on the challenges people who are blind face in navigating the world and dealing with misconceptions from the public. Plus there's a look at cool new keyboards from Logitech, including the Keys-To-Go 2 and Wave ergonomic keyboards. The show ends with a creative and humorous song created by a listener, Brian, focusing on alt text and accessibility. 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 and Shaun discuss the latest tech that was on show at the NFB Convention in Florida recently, and Steven reports on a product recall by the RNIB in the UK. The guys begin with listener emails that bring up topics including accessible air fryers and Steven's new puppy. Also, there's much cheer for the renewal of Double Tap for another season and sadness expressed at the decision to bring Shaun of the Shed to an end, at least in its current form. The guys then move on to discuss some of the technology on show at the NFB convention held in Orlando, Florida. Regular contributor Scott spent time at the event and spoke to various companies including Glidance, BiPed and the TouchPad Pro Foundation. And there's news of a product recall from RNIB - the UK blindness charity has recalled the wireless charger sold with the RNIB Accord Talking Book/MP3 player. Customers have been contacted and are being sent a replacement wireless charger. For anyone concerned, email the charity on helpline@rnib.org.uk or if you're in the UK call 0303 123 9999. 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 and Shaun explore a variety of topics based on listener emails, as well as the evolving language around disability terminology. The hosts also delve into the world of smart AI glasses, comparing various models and discussing the accessibility of different apps for users who are blind. Additionally, they touch on the concept of pride and how it relates to being blind, sharing personal perspectives and insights from listeners. 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, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece catch up with Brian Fischler from That Real Blind Tech Show. The hosts discuss various topics, including the importance of accessibility teams in tech companies, the experience of using HomePods for spatial audio, and the challenges and benefits of AI and mixed reality for individuals who are blind. Brian shares insights from his participation in the XR Access Conference, where he explores the potential of AI and virtual reality. Additionally, Brian talks about his involvement in a pilot for a new TV show called "Don't Look Now," a sitcom featuring a predominantly blind cast. 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 the Best of Double Tap on YouTube, Steven and Shaun give details of how their show will transition to YouTube in the coming months. We start with David Redmond from Vision Ireland joining the guys to share his thoughts on the new iPad Pro with M4 processor. David talks about how he uses the device and gives his opinion on why it is a good choice for people with low vision. We also hear Shaun's take on the news that car company Honda is due to release an app called Honda Scenic Audio that gives real-time information on your surroundings as you travel in the car. It's designed for blind people so they can enjoy their trip knowing what's going on around them outside. Shaun shares his opinions on the app and questions its intended purpose. 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 discussed various topics starting with the breaking news from Aira, including the introduction of two pilot programs for wearable devices, the availability of Aira on Meta Ray Ban smart glasses, and the ARX Vision device. They were joined by Jenine Stanley from the company who discussed the free Access AI feature for image recognition, the Remote Incident Manager product, and the extension of existing Aira plans without a price increase until 2025. They also got more detail on the impact of integrating Aira with mainstream wearable devices and stressed the importance of functionality over fashion in assistive technology. The episode concluded with a preview of upcoming changes to the show, such as moving to YouTube and discontinuing the segment "Shaun of the Shed." 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 discuss various topics, including headphones, speakers, and air fryers. They talk about the Bose SoundLink Plex and the Bose Soundlink Max speakers, as well as the Treblab Z7 Pro headphones. They also mention the Bose Soundwear, a wearable speaker, and the Sony over-the-neck speaker. Additionally, they talk about air fryers following a comment from one of the listeners on the subject. They talk about the limitations of traditional cooking methods and the potential for kitchen appliances to evolve in the future. The conversation then shifts to the use of assistive technology, including braille computers and voiceover systems. Listeners share their experiences with different AI apps and voiceover settings, and there's chat about the importance of audio description in television and film. 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.