steven scott

In the latest episode of Double Tap, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive into a variety of topics, starting with Steven sharing his latest low-tech acquisition – a Braille calendar and his talking clock - which Shaun doesn’t seem very inspired by. They also continue what is now their daily wander into the world of artificial intelligence, specifically focusing on Microsoft's Copilot. Steven and Shaun express their skepticism and hopes for AI, discussing its potential to enhance accessibility but also acknowledging its current limitations. They also touch upon the surprising discontinuation of Android apps on Windows, expressing disappointment and speculation about the reasons behind the decision. Keep in touch by emailing us at feedback@doubletaponair.com or calling 1-877-03-4567 and leaving us a voicemail. You can also find us on social media.

In the latest episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece chat with Christopher Patnoe from Google about all things Android, and they delve into the broader topic of AI and its role in accessibility. Throughout the episode, the hosts cover a range of topics, including the potential of AI in creating more accessible experiences for people with disabilities. They address the excitement surrounding AI, likening its impact on tech to a positive tsunami, but also discuss the need for caution to avoid misrepresentations or "hallucinations" in AI-generated content. Christopher expresses frustration about getting the word out regarding Google's accessibility features. Despite their efforts, there seems to be a disconnect in communication, leaving many unaware of the tools available. Keep in touch by emailing us at feedback@doubletaponair.com or calling 1-877-03-4567 and leaving us a voicemail. You can also find us on social media.

In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece kick off with Steven sharing a story about helping his dad connect Apple Music to Amazon Echo, illustrating the common misconception about being locked into specific tech ecosystems and the surprise many feel when they learn about cross-platform compatibility. Listener emails bring up topics like marketing assistive technology to younger audiences, the need for resources for young people who are blind or partially sighted, and the complexities of finding a good therapist or counselor in the UK. They touch on the challenges of navigating YouTube with VoiceOver due to the introduction of shorts at the top of search results, reflecting on how changes in app interfaces can impact accessibility. The episode wraps up with excitement for the upcoming Ability Summit by Microsoft, focusing on the potential of AI and the importance of making technology accessible not just for consumers but for creators with disabilities. Hector Minto, technology evangelist for Microsoft, stresses the significance of registering for events like the Ability Summit to show interest and support for accessibility in tech. Register for the Ability Summit here: https://abilitysummit.event.microsoft.com/ Keep in touch by emailing us at feedback@doubletaponair.com or calling 1-877-03-4567 and leaving us a voicemail. You can also find us on social media.

Today's show is jam-packed with tech talk and a special focus on the Optima Braille laptop's delay. Steven discusses his experience with Groups.io, a platform where he found a community discussing the Victor Reader Stream. He shares the challenges of trying to get Audible support on the new Victor Reader Stream 3 and reminisces about the ease of transferring books on the older model. As always, the show features listener feedback, starting with Alan's curiosity about the Ray-Ban Meta glasses and the AI transcription feature. Frank shares his frustrations with Lady A's playback issues and the difficulty of setting email sounds on the iPhone 14. But the highlight of today's episode is a candid interview with Adi Kushner from Access Mind. Adi opens up about the real-world conflict in Israel that has caused delays in the Optima Braille laptop's production. Despite the challenges, Adi remains committed to the project and shares exciting news about upcoming software beta testing and collaborations with screen reader developers. Keep your feedback coming and share your thoughts with the guys by emailing feedback@doubletaponair.com or calling 1-877-803-4567 and leaving us a voicemail.

On this Friday, January 19, 2024, Steven and Shaun dive into a weekly roundup of tech and accessibility news, discussions and interviews. The show kicks off with the hosts discussing the new schedule for Double Tap, which will now be five days a week, with four regular shows and the Friday Express. This change comes as they prepare to launch content on YouTube, aiming to maintain the quality of their work without spreading themselves too thin. Grace Scoffield joins with Double Tap news headlines, covering Samsung's new flagship smartphones featuring Galaxy AI, Google's Circle to Search feature, the anticipated Orbit Speak from Orbit Research, and the upcoming Hable Two Bluetooth keyboard for smartphones. She also mentions the WebAIM survey for screen reader users, which is gathering insights to enhance web content and standards for people with disabilities. Steven has a conversation with Eric Roche about the Inside One Braille tablet, a Windows-running device designed with touch technology for the blind community. It's a high-end product that aims to provide a seamless experience for blind users, though its price point may be a barrier for some. The episode also delves into accessible gaming, specifically focusing on Forza Motorsport, which allows people who are blind to drive with no vision at all. Steven interviews Ross Minor, who shares his excitement about the game's groundbreaking accessibility features and the inclusive gaming experience it offers. They discuss the game's sound cues, customization options, and the overall reaction from the gaming community. Keep in touch with Double Tap by emailing feedback@doubletaponair.com or calling 1-877-803-4567 and leaving us a voicemail that we might use on air. You can also find us across social media: search for Double Tap.

In today's episode, Steven and Shaun are buzzing with excitement over the plethora of news hitting the tech world. They discuss the recent Samsung Unpacked event, which, despite not usually capturing Steven's attention, brought some intriguing features to the table. Shaun, on the other hand, is particularly fascinated by the AI capabilities and live translation features announced. Special guest Sallih Kunduz from the Accessible Android website and podcast joins the show to give his expert take on the Samsung announcements. Salih emphasizes the significance of AI in the new Galaxy S24 series and the potential for enhanced accessibility through live transcription and translation during phone calls. The conversation then shifts to Orbit Research and their elusive OrbitSpeak product. Steven shares updates on the anticipated release, expressing cautious optimism due to previous delays. The hosts also touch upon the unfortunate delay of the Optima Braille laptop, promising to delve deeper into the reasons with Adi Kushner in a future episode. Another highlight of the show is the introduction of the Inside One Braille tablet by a French company. This Windows-running device aims to revolutionize the Braille note-taking experience with its touch-sensitive screen and Perkins-style keyboard overlay. Eric Roche from Inside One gives listeners an in-depth look at the tablet's features, design, and potential for inclusion in educational and professional settings. Lastly, Steven and Shaun discuss the rumours about a paid subscription model for Amazon's voice assistant, Alexa. They ponder the value of such a service and what it would need to offer to justify the cost. Resources Mentioned: - Accessible Android: accessandroid.com - Inside One Braille Tablet: insidevision.fr Connect with Double Tap: - Follow on X: @DoubleTapOnAir - Email: feedback@doubletaponair.com - Call: 1-877-803-4567

Today on the show, Steven and Shaun discuss the latest in AI technology at the CES conference in Las Vegas. The Rabbit R1 has been one of the most talked about announcements so far: a handheld AI companion that can not only use ChatGPT-like features but also link into other services and act for you on your behalf. Also, Steven tells us about a new watch that he decided to buy after having issues with the Apple Watch. But what did he go for in the end, and who is ultimately responsible for the purchase? And David Ward, the host of the Echo Tips podcast, is back to share his thoughts on the latest AI chat features that are rolling out to users to test in the USA. Get in touch with the Double Tappers and join the conversation: Email: feedback@doubletaponair.com Call: 1-877-803-4567 (Canada and USA) / 0204 571 3354 (UK) X (formerly Twitter): @BlindGuyTech / @ShaunShed Mastodon: @DoubleTap

Today on the show, Steven and Shaun discuss the latest news coming out of CES, the Consumer Electronics Show, held annually in Las Vegas. Plus, we discuss the latest news from Apple who have announced the new Vision Pro launch date of February 2. As CES gets into full swing, we hear about the latest innovations in AI-driven tech, new televisions and robots to clean up after us. Regular contributor Michael Babcock also joins us to discuss the news that Be My AI is coming to the Blindshell Classic 2 soon, and we are joined by podcast host, broadcaster and author Shelly Brisbin, to give us her take on the Apple Vision Pro launch announcement, as well as how well it may perform for low vision people like her. As always, keep in touch with us and share your feedback or check us out on social media by searching for ‘Double Tap’. New episodes air every day on AMI-audio and are available from noon Eastern for download on our podcast. More details can be found at doubletaponair.com.

It's a special show today, celebrating World Braille Day which not only focuses on the tactile writing system but also its creator Louis Braille, whose birthday is marked today too. On this special two-hour episode, which was broadcast live on AMI-audio, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece are joined by a stellar panel of guests to discuss the value of Braille today, and how technology can play a major part in its future. Our panel includes AMI-tv's Kelly MacDonald, based in London, Ontario, and Grant Hardy from Vancouver. Both are keen braillists and want to share their love of the writing system with us. Plus, Kim Kilpatrick joins us from Ottawa. She is the vice president of Braille Literacy Canada, a professional storyteller, disability arts consultant and community reporter on Kelly & Ramya. And Elizabeth Mohler joins us from Southern Ontario. She is a researcher, educator and advocate for Braille and sits on the Education Standards Committee for the Ontario Government, where she advises and deliberates on Educational Policies about students with disabilities. We also hear from Professor Cay Holbrook, from the University of British Columbia, who shares her research on the history of Louis Braille and the legacy he leaves behind. Plus we learn about a virtual sing-a-long taking place across Canada which has been arranged by CNIB to mark World Braille Day with a special song - Karen Brophey from the organisation joins us to tell us more. And we met Freek van Welsenis, one of the founders of the popular Hable One Braille input keyboard which has won a major award at the upcoming Zero Project Conference in Vienna. We discuss the role technology like this plays in getting Braille into the hands of more people around the world. Get in touch with the Double Tappers and join the conversation: Email: feedback@doubletaponair.com Call: 1-877-803-4567 (Canada and USA) / 0204 571 3354 (UK) X (formerly Twitter): @BlindGuyTech / @ShaunShed Mastodon: @DoubleTap

In our special episode, we're revisiting the tech highlights of 2023. The year began with Sony's PlayStation 5 controller launch and Microsoft's investment in OpenAI. Twitter made waves by banning third-party apps, sparking a discussion featured in a clip with Gedeon Maheux. February brought Google's AI plans with Bard and exciting tech news from Canada. HumanWare introduced the Victor Reader Stream 3rd gen. March featured Humanware's "Made for Surface" devices and the CSUN conference. April marked Amazon's support for cochlear implants and Seeing AI's indoor navigation feature. May was packed with innovations, including Braille Doodle and Final Cut's iPad debut, alongside an audio transcription demo using AIKO. Sadly, Microsoft bid farewell to Soundscape, but it returned via Open Scape beta, the Scottish Tech Army, and the NCBI. June showcased Apple's WWDC and Vision Pro, along with Reddit's significant API changes. July was Convention month, featuring Sight Village PamTrad, NFB Report by Damashe Thomas, and ACB-OKO. August turned the spotlight to smart glasses, including Seleste and Kapsys smartvision 3. In September, LEGO launched braille bricks for everyone, while WordPress Accessibility Day emphasized web inclusivity. October unveiled CES in Amsterdam, and November featured a talking air fryer, Be My Eyes at an Open AI event, JAWS news, and some Open AI chaos. Be My AI emerged as the first customer service AI. December concluded with Forza's success at the Game Awards, the Netflix drama "All The Light We Cannot See," and the Android debut of Seeing AI and Be My AI. Sight Tech Global was a must-attend event for tech enthusiasts. Get in touch with the Double Tappers and join the conversation: Email: feedback@doubletaponair.com Call: 1-877-803-4567 (Canada and USA) / 0204 571 3354 (UK) X (formerly Twitter): @BlindGuyTech / @ShaunShed Mastodon: @DoubleTap

Today on the show, Steven and Shaun discuss the controversy surrounding the Android app Beeper Mini, and its decision to bring iMessage support to Android users, which is not supported or allowed by Apple. Despite repeated attempts, the app continues to be shut down, but is Apple right to do this or should it allow Beeper to do what it wants? Also in the news, Bose has announced that its popular Frames audio sunglasses are no more, with the company shelving the product. Does this mean this type of device is doomed, or is this just an issue for Bose themselves? There's more of your feedback on the subjects of blind identity, and privacy of our apps, and Negative Julian offers an app to help see your Android phone more easily. Get in touch with the Double Tappers and join the conversation: Email: feedback@doubletaponair.com Call: 1-877-803-4567 (Canada and USA) / 0204 571 3354 (UK) X (formerly Twitter): @BlindGuyTech / @ShaunShed Mastodon: @DoubleTap

Today on the show, Steven and Shaun round up another big week of tech news, with Grace Scoffield joining the show to share all the stories. Also, David Ward from the Echo Tips podcast joins us to share his buying guides for those looking to get a new Echo or Fire TV stick this holiday season, and listener Lena shares an accessible advent calendar idea with us. There's also an in depth discussion on the state of Android accessibility, with Kareen Kiwan and Salih Kunduz from Accessible Android, following a huge week of news for the platform. Get in touch with the Double Tappers and join the conversation: Email: feedback@doubletaponair.com Call: 1-877-803-4567 (Canada and USA) / 0204 571 3354 (UK) X (formerly Twitter): @BlindGuyTech / @ShaunShed Mastodon: @DoubleTap

Today on the show, Steven and Shaun discuss the news that popular Xbox game Forza Motorsport won in the Innovation In Accessibility category at last night's Game Awards 2023. It's a major win and we hear from one of the judges, Blind Gamer Steve Saylor, and Tara Voelker from Xbox, on the state of accessibility in gaming in 2023, as well as the challenges some players still have enjoying these titles. Also, on the gaming theme, listener Anexis has sent in her review of the text adventure game TimeCrest. Find out why Anexis enjoys playing it and what it sounds like to play. Get in touch with the Double Tappers and join the conversation: Email: feedback@doubletaponair.com Call: 1-877-803-4567 (Canada and USA) / 0204 571 3354 (UK) X (formerly Twitter): @BlindGuyTech / @ShaunShed Mastodon: @DoubleTap

Today on the show, Steven and Shaun discuss the terrifying, but rather amusing, story of a thief who handed back an Android phone to their victim, saying they would have preferred an iPhone. It's a bizarre story, but it does remind us of the need to protect our devices; the guys discuss the best way to ensure your data is safe if your phone is stolen. Also, Ned Desmond is the creator and executive producer of Sight Tech Global, a free, online conference to discuss the world of technology from a blind point of view. Ned tells us about Sight Tech Global and its origins, and what to expect from the two-day event. And host of the Echo Tips Podcast, David Ward, is back again to share his buying guide for the Amazon Fire TV Stick. Get in touch with the Double Tappers and join the conversation: Email: feedback@doubletaponair.com Call: 1-877-803-4567 (Canada and USA) / 0204 571 3354 (UK) X (formerly Twitter): @BlindGuyTech / @ShaunShed Mastodon: @DoubleTap

Today on the show, Steven and Shaun discuss how they have been upsetting podcasters. Well, one in particular. It's all good fun, though, and we hope lovely Jenine from That Real Blind Tech Show enjoys her new nickname from the guys; find out more today on the show. Also, there's a lot of continuing chat around the subject of blindness and today we hear more of the stories and experiences you have kindly shared with us. Get in touch with the Double Tappers and join the conversation: Email: feedback@doubletaponair.com Call: 1-877-803-4567 (Canada and USA) / 0204 571 3354 (UK) X (formerly Twitter): @BlindGuyTech / @ShaunShed Mastodon: @DoubleTap

Today on the show, Steven and Shaun review the first-ever Open AI DevDay for developers to learn about what the company has to offer those who want to build the next iteration of artificially intelligent applications and services. In the audience was Mike Buckley, CEO of Be My Eyes, who was called out on stage by Sam Altman, the CEO of Open AI, as a prime example of how AI can be used for good. Mike Buckley joins the guys to give his reaction to the conference and also chat about ongoing development within the Be My Eyes app itself. Plus we hear your reaction to Steven's comments about living with blindness. Many of you reacted to this and we'll hear your thoughts today. Get in touch with the Double Tappers and join the conversation: Email: feedback@doubletaponair.com Call: 1-877-803-4567 (Canada and USA) / 0204 571 3354 (UK) X (formerly Twitter): @BlindGuyTech / @ShaunShed Mastodon: @DoubleTap

Today on the show, Steven and Shaun discuss the new Apple Event coming up for Halloween, and listeners chime in on their thoughts on whether Steven should buy the new iMac or not. Also, there's the perennial discussion on Android vs Apple and questions about whether a new mobile operating system could gain traction in between the two major players. Plus, Steven lays out his thoughts on upgrading to the new version of Outlook. Spoiler alert: He uses the word "avoid" a lot! Get in touch with the Double Tappers and join the conversation: Email: feedback@doubletaponair.com Call: 1-877-803-4567 (Canada and USA) / 0204 571 3354 (UK) X (formerly Twitter): @BlindGuyTech / @ShaunShed Mastodon: @DoubleTap

Today on the show, Steven and Shaun are joined by three special guests to discuss the future of a popular orientation and mobility app for people who are blind. Since Soundscape was "sunset" by Microsoft earlier this year, many have rushed to recreate the app using the source code the company provided, and one of those groups has been led in part by the app's original co-founder, Jarnail Chudge. Today on Double Tap we meet Jarnail, along with two members of the NCBI (The National Council for the Blind in Ireland) who are helping to back this new project. David Redmond and Aiofe Buckley discuss the benefits of the app from David's perspective as a person who is blind as well as Aiofe, who is an orientation and mobility instructor. You can find out more about the NCBI here: https://www.ncbi.ie You can also download the Soundscape Community app (for iPhone only) here: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/soundscape-community/id6449701760 Get in touch with the Double Tappers and join the conversation: Email: feedback@doubletaponair.com Call: 1-877-803-4567 (Canada and USA) / 0204 571 3354 (UK) X (formerly Twitter): @BlindGuyTech / @ShaunShed Mastodon: @DoubleTap

Today on the show, Steven and Shaun discuss the sad news of the closure of the company behind Sunu band, a mobility aid that used sonar and was worn on the wrist to help someone navigate their surroundings while using a cane or guide dog. We feature a statement from their founder. Also, there's a slew of accessibility updates to talk through, from Google and Xbox. Read more from Paul Thurrott's blog: https://www.thurrott.com/google/291115/google-and-xbox-announce-new-accessibility-features And there's a chance to learn about a new treadmill that lets you walk and turn safely within a virtual reality setting. Steven caught up with the CEO of the company VirtuaWalk. Get in touch with the Double Tappers and join the conversation: Email: feedback@doubletaponair.com Call: 1-877-803-4567 (Canada and USA) / 0204 571 3354 (UK) X (formerly Twitter): @BlindGuyTech / @ShaunShed Mastodon: @DoubleTap

Today on the show, Steven and Shaun discuss a news story that has been circulating suggesting the company might be about to put a price on Alexa. The company has been quoted as saying that, following new generative AI features announced last week, it may be time for a subscription model to be added to Alexa. Also, we hear a demo from listener Elijah in the voice of Amazon Polly showing off a smartwatch with a difference: it's running a full edition of Android software. The watch also features a camera and with the Android software installed, can run most apps from the Google Play Store. But, it's a project not for the faint-hearted, as Elijah explains. Get in touch with the Double Tappers and join the conversation: Email: feedback@doubletaponair.com Call: 1-877-803-4567 (Canada and USA) / 0204 571 3354 (UK) X (formerly Twitter): @BlindGuyTech / @ShaunShed Mastodon: @DoubleTap