Podcasts about vision store

This week Damo shows us his recently acquired WEWalk Smart Cane 2. This includes a description of the cane, along with feature demonstrations including its object detection, favourite locations and more. This product is available from the Vision Store, shop.visionaustralia.org. There is also a reminder to tune to next week’s program which will contain significant news about the Talking Tech program and podcast. To access Talking Tech, presented each week by Stephen Jolley and Damo McMorrow you can go to varadio.org/talkingtech To write to the show use damo.mcmorrow@visionaustralia.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.

This week we cover: News of Apples’s latest phone, the iPhone 16e; An update to info about the WeWALK Smart Cane 2, including news that it will soon be available from the Vision Store, shop.visionaustralia.org; Damo’s recent venture in to the world of Network Radio. To access the program, presented by Stephen Jolley and Damo McMorrow you can go to varadio.org/talkingtech To write to the show use damo.mcmorrow@visionaustralia.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.

Show notes for Talking Tech of 10 December 2024 This week: We have a reminder of the Vision Store at Vision Australia as a resource for your Christmas shopping at shop.visionaustralia.org; News of this week’s release of upgraded Apple software; There is news of accessible, programmable cooking devices with the Meater range of products; Damo explains his current use of apps and devices for assisting with GPS and associated mobility activity. To access the program, presented by Stephen Jolley and Damo McMorrow you can go to varadio.org/talkingtech To write to the show use damo.mcmorrow@visionaustralia.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.

This week with Christmas fast approaching, Damo visits the Vision Australia Vision Store at Coorparoo in Brisbane and chats with Store Coordinator Ruby Lacey. Ruby explains the Tonie accessible toy; the Tape King talking tape measure and spirit level; and the Colorino color identifier and light sensor. The Vision Store can be found at https://shop.visionaustralia.org.   To access the program, presented by Stephen Jolley and Damo McMorrow you can go to varadio.org/talkingtech To write to the show use damo.mcmorrow@visionaustralia.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.

Guest Bio:Alisha Beck, originally from southeast Michigan, has a rich background in people-oriented roles. Starting her career at Dunkin Donuts, she transitioned to BIGGBY® COFFEE, where she has held various positions at store and home office levels, including personal development mentoring, culture development, and employee coaching. Alisha currently holds the title of People Development Mentor and is a key part of the LifeLab team. Outside of work, she is a mom, wife, and dog mommy and lives in Farmington, Michigan. Key Points From This Episode: [05:16] Alisha Beck's career journey to People Development Mentor at BIGGBY® COFFEE.[11:35] Her transition from traditional operations to The Life You Love Laboratory.[14:00] Alisha's leadership superpower and what she learned from her time at Dunkin Donuts.[17:28] The origins of the Life You Love Workshops and how Alisha helped develop them.[20:46] How these workshops benefit and impact the lives of participants.[24:01] Inspiring stories of transformation and connection from the Life You Love Workshops.[29:01] Key lessons from the Harvard case study on the Life You Love Workshops.[30:51] How these workshops would need to change for greater adoption among franchisees.[32:48] The value of these workshops for young people.[36:23] BIGGBY'®s Vision Store program and its goal to improve workplace culture in the US.[37:56] What Alisha and Laura would wish for if they had a magic wand.[41:56] Top challenges in getting people to take part in non-traditional programs.[46:23] An overview of today's episode and Alisha's passion for her work. Quotes: “Our purpose is to support you in building a life you love. And I am just so naturally drawn to that as a person because I have always wanted to inspire people to do exactly that.” — Alisha Beck [0:11:57] “When we started building what we call the boost sphere, I felt really passionate about what that work was going to be turning into, and I wanted to have a seat at the table to help build it and help create it and help grow it.” — Alisha Beck [0:13:10] “Part of [our quest] and that we're trying to prove is that this work is how you are going to be profitable. – It can feel like an afterthought, and it can feel like something that can happen later, but when we keep waiting until after, we might miss that [opportunity].” — Alisha Beck [0:32:12] “If I could wave a magic wand, it would somehow be finding a way to engage the owner-operators more. And that is a lot of the work that we are focused on this year.” — Alisha Beck [0:38:49]RESOURCES: [16:27] Discover LifeLabTM: The Life You Love LaboratoryTM[16:57] Learn about the Life You Love LaboratoryTM Workshop Series.[36:23] Gain insights on BIGGBY'®s Vision Store program.[42:29] Find out how to take the Life You Love Assessment.Follow Alisha BeckLinkedInInstagramLinketree  FOLLOW:Follow Laura Eich:LinkedInFacebookInstagram Follow Mike McFall:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookXInstagram Follow BIGGBY® COFFEE & LifeLabTM:WebsiteFacebookXInstagramLinkedInAbout LifeLabTM ABOUT LOVE IN LEADERSHIP:At the Life You Love LaboratoryTM and BIGGBY® COFFEE, we're out to prove that financial success and healthy workplace culture aren't two separate goals. BIGGBY® COFFEE's own cultural transformation is proof that not only is it possible to have a successful company where people aren't miserable at work, but that the happier your people are, the more your business will grow. Each week, join host Laura Eich, Chief Purpose Officer at BIGGBY® COFFEE, and her co-host and BIGGBY® COFFEE co-CEO Mike McFall as they're joined by guests from around the world to learn how they are fostering a culture of love and growth in the world's most innovative and people-centric companies. Get inspired. Get real. Get ready to transform workplace culture in America with us. This is the Love in Leadership podcast.Learn more at: loveinleadershippodcast.com ABOUT THE HOSTS:Mike McFall began his journey with BIGGBY® COFFEE as a minimum-wage barista at the original store in East Lansing in 1996. Over the span of 23 years, alongside business partner Bob Fish, he has helped create one of the great specialty coffee brands in America. Today Mike is co-CEO with Bob, and BIGGBY® COFFEE has over 250 stores open throughout the Midwest that sell tens of thousands of cups of coffee each day. But more importantly to Mike and BIGGBY® COFFEE, the company is a profoundly people-first organization.Mike is also the author of Grind, a book which focuses on early-stage businesses and how to establish positive cash flow. Laura Eich is BIGGBY® COFFEE's Chief People Officer, having worked in a variety of roles at BIGGBY® COFFEE for the last 11+ years. She helped launch BOOST, the department at BIGGBY® COFFEE which ultimately became LifeLabTM — BIGGBY® COFFEE's in-house culture cultivation team designed to help people be the best versions of themselves and help companies support them along the way. In her role, Laura helps people build lives that they love through the process of building profitable businesses and robust, growth-filled careers.

This week just days after International White Cane Day on October 15, we focus on some technology initiatives that can assist with moving around independently. Including: The revolutionary Australian Sensaball white cane tip with more information at https://sensaball.com.au; News of the Glide mobility aid under development from Glidance at https://glidance.io; News of the Biped Noa mobility vest with further info via https://biped.ai; Damo's thoughts on orientation and mobility features in iOS 18. Also, we hear of the Dolphin Supernova screen access software upgrade with further info from Vision Australia's Vision Store at Https://shop.visionaustralia.org or from Dolphin at https://yourdolphin.com.   For the podcast presented by Stephen Jolley and Damo McMorrow you can go to varadio.org/talkingtech To write to the show use damo.mcmorrow@visionaustralia.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: Synaptic software for your Android Phone or Tablet   What is Synaptic:   Synapptic is an all in one software or app package for people who are blind or vision impaired, , that works on android smartphones and tablets.   Synaptic overview:   Find your way around with clear and bright icons. All screens have the same look and feel. In other words, once you have learnt one screen, you will know everything you need to know to use all other screens. Never get lost and always find your way back to the main menu with the Red Cross at the top left corner of the screen. Customise the main menu to display as a grid on one screen to make finding things easier, rather than several menu screens. Touch and release touch screen control means you can move your finger up and down each menu option and it will be read out until you stop on the option you want to use. Control Synaptic with your voice and use voice dictation if you like instead of the on screen keyboard. Plus, you can also use a Bluetooth keyboard for navigation and typing as well. Change the magnification level,  colour scheme, screen brightness, speech and sound settings,  and of course the menus. help is available at the top right hand corner  of each Synapptic screen. Make and receive phone calls and text messages (only on devices with a SIMM card). Send, receive, and read  emails. Use the web browser to search and read what is on the internet. Listen to thousands of internet radio stations. Play music, books, and other MP3 recordings from device,  memory cards or USB sticks. Watch and enjoy what is on YouTube. Catch up with the news and other stories efficiently. Turn the camera in to a reading machine, hand held digital magnifier, colour detecter, access QR/Bar codes, and take and share photos. Find out your current location, and what may be of interest near you.   Other features:    address book. calendar,  Reminders, and alarms. Calculator. Compass and spirit level. Make and share text or voice notes. Use the stop watch,  and timer. Install and Run other apps such as Spotify, Zoom etc. If all of these features interest you, a download trial is available. See the shop page for this link. You can then purchase a license to register the Synaptic software.     For more information, please contact the Vision Store on phone 1 3 0 0, 8 4 7 , 4 6 6 or email visionstore@visionaustralia.org. https://shop.visionaustralia.org/everyday-technology/synapptic-software-for-android.html   ApleVIS Closing Down   After 14 years of volunteer operation, as of August 31 2024 Applevis will be closing down. Great content, and it will be missed. Site is in read only mode for now, so no new content will be available.   Speaking of Getting Help and Useful Resources   Don't forget about the help sites from Apple, Android, and Windows, plus our fantastic at Help Desk which you can reach via the main Vision Australia number or email athelp@visionaustralia.org   Tips on Stephen on How to listen to the 2024 Ylympics   Some great tips, as I have been finding it bit confusing myself on where to catch up on what is happening with the games.   Any Head Phone suggestions   Folks who follow me on social media will know I'm on a bit of a quest to find out suitable head phones to use when out and about, as my bone conduction Shokz just don't work in noisy environments.   Feel free to email me your head phone suggestions that you use to my work email: David.woodbridge@visionaustralia.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.

The Vision Store is available to anyone in the community who would like to have a bit of help with being able to see things that bit better. We had a campaign a while ago now which was called “when glasses no longer help”, a now a new campaign called Tech for Your eyes”. Check it out at the Vision Store website: Https://shop.visionaustralia.org   Biped/Noa.   A wearable over the shoulders device  (like wearing a vest) that does Navigation Obstacle (detection), and AI, hence its name NOA. I've not seen something like this that I had hands on for a day last week which has impressed me so much.   Https://biped.ai   iPate a Conversational AI to scam the scammers from Macquarie Uni   As far as I can tell, a bit of a test of Ai Bots to scam the scammers.   https://www.theguardian.com/technology/article/2024/jul/07/ai-chatbots-phone-scams   Are Visual Models Actually Blind   Actually yes they are to some extent.   https://techcrunch.com/2024/07/11/are-visual-ai-models-actually-blind/   How to use your Smart Phone One Handed   Great tip for Android and iPhone users when using large screen phones ththese days to enable you to pull down the icons from the top of the screen so you can reach them with one hand,.   https://www.theverge.com/24201413/iphone-android-ios-samsung-one-hand-how-to   Of course, we also talked about Crowd Strike, we've probably heard way to much smile.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: 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.

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.

First up this week Sam speaks with chair of the Vision Australia Radio committee in Shepparton, Peter Simpson. Peter was involved in the early days of Vision Australia Radio in the 80s, but returned to volunteer six years ago after moving to Shepparton. After you hear from Peter, Jason Gipps is on the program to tell us about a special broadcast taking place live at the opening day of Midsumma on January 21 between 10am and 1pm. And finally on the program this week, Sam from the shop is back to tell us about the latest from the Vision Store, and we wrap up with some news and information.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.

Apps that have caught my attention in 2023 Obstacle Detecter. Lire RSS. Mona.  Spring. Be My Eyes AI Perplexity Bing Call Annie. Chat GPT.   Reminder for Getting in Last Orders from the Vision Store before Christmas   WA Dec 1, and rest of Australia Dec 8.   https://shop.visionaustralia.org   Outdoor Demo from me on Toys to Play/Use outside   https://davidwoodbr.podbean.com/e/sounds-of-summer-from-the-vision-australia-vision-store/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.

Apple Scary Fast Event 31 October 2023   3 New M3 MacBooks, and a new M3 iMac 24 inch.   https://www.apple.com.au Taking The All Terrain Cane for a Spin Over the Week End   https://shop.visionaustralia.org/all-terrain-cane.html   Brailliant BIX Update and Mantis Q40   New localised voices and daisy library's.   https://shop.visionaustralia.org/brailliant-bi-20x-cells.html   Focus 14 verses the Brilliant BIX20 in Price   Focus 14 $2900, and Brailliant BIX 20 $2945.   Braille Doodle   https://www.touchpadprofoundation.org   Blind Shell Classic 2 update   https://shop.visionaustralia.org/blindshell-classic-2-mobile-phone-black.html   Victor Reader Trek End Of Life Whilst Stocks Last   Supported for 3 more years.   https://shop.visionaustralia.org/victor-reader-trek.html   Exploring Tech webinar Events put on Hold for the Moment   Christmas Ideas from the Vision Store - 75 suggestions   https://shop.visionaustralia.org/campaigns/christmas-gift-ideas.html?j=2735503&sfmc_sub=164500760&l=5100_HTML&u=43705731&mid=100015415&jb=7008&utm_source=sfmc&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=2023_HolidayGifts&utm_content=Shop+the+full+range+now&utm_id=2735503&sfmc_id=164500760Support 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.

Milos from Kikiriki Games is back on the show this week joining Sam to chat about their latest accessible game, Brave Brain.  This is the second game from the Czech developers after releasing To The Dragon Cave last year. After you hear from Milos this week, Sam is joined by a new regular to Talking Vision, Sam from the Shop to give us the latest news from the Vision Store.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.

Vision Australia Digital Access Assistive Technology Survey https://visionaucx.syd1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9XmHczxfoUMwFh4 Bindi maps Navigation Survey https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WC5ZM8L__;!!BW9V2p7J0Kl2QvQ!AWdtzaBl4_YqQypD7rdzit6SkKUl2dv1uRe7GK2Ez1M3L0ThJi6WtYhv2niQEYrdGWkSj3WmfnQCSUvtXTps8-BVPdY$ Be-My-Eyes Extending Testing Virtual AI Assistance from August 15 https://www.bemyeyes.com/blog/introducing-be-my-ai Musing about assistive tech for home, school, and employment Note - these are just recommendations and ideas, check at the end of the show notes where to get further assistance or information. For low vision folks, please get an assessment for any video magnification equipment/software. Thoughts on main stream and assistive tech for home as a person who lives with low vision Windows Windows 11 PC desktop or laptop I7 with 16GB of RAM Zoom, Zoomtext Mac M2 MBP 14 Pro System Zoom Other  Good size LED monitor Monitor arm Large print keyboard iPhone or Android smart phone or tablet. Smart phone or tablet stand Printer/scanner Shokz Video Magnifier: portable, desktop.  Or units that have both magnification` and speech. Thoughts on assistive tech for school/further study as a person who is low vision   Windows   Windows 11 PC laptop I7 with 16GB of RAM Zoomtext or Zoom   Mac   M2 MBP 14 Pro System Zoom   Other   Good size LED monitor Monitor arm Large print keyboard iPhone 14 plus iPad Bluetooth keyboard Smart phone or tablet stand Printer/scanner Shokz Video Magnifier: portable, desktop, wearable, magnification/speech. Thoughts on assistive tech for employment as person who is low vision Windows Windows 11 PC laptop I7 with 16GB of RAM Zoomtext Mac M2 MBP 14 Pro System Zoom Other Good size LED monitor Monitor arm Large print keyboard iPhone 14 Pro Max iPad Bluetooth keyboard Smart phone or tablet stand Shokz Video Magnifier: portable, desktop, wearable, magnifidcation/speech Where to get assistance on deciding best tech fit or funding. VA AT Help Desk. VA AT service. VA Bursary awards Job accesss Etc   Call Vision Australia on 1300 847 466 or email info@visionaustralia.org For many of the products, go to the VA Store online shop: Https://shop.visionaustrlaia.org Contact the Vision Store email visionstore@visionaustralia.org   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.

Musing about assistive tech for home, school, and employment   The show today is blindness related, and next weeks show will be on low vision. Note - these are just recommendations and ideas, check at the end of the show notes where to get further assistance or information.   Thoughts on main stream and assistive tech for home as a person who is blind   Windows   Windows 11 PC desktop or laptop I7 with 16GB of RAM NvDA, Narrator  or JaWS   Mac Mac mini M2 MBP 14 Pro VoiceOver   Other    Perkins Brailler iPhone 14 Pro Bluetooth keyboard Smart phone or tablet stand Printer/scanner Shokz   Thoughts on assistive tech for school/further study as a person who is blind   Windows   Windows 11 PC laptop I7 with 16GB of RAM JAWS for Windows or NVDA   Mac   M2 MBP 14 Pro VoiceOver   Other   Perkins Brailler Brailliant BI40X Victor Reader Stream 3 iPhone 14 Pro iPad Bluetooth keyboard Smart phone or tablet stand Mini Guide Printer/scanner Shokz   Thoughts on assistive tech for employment as person who is blind   Windows   Windows 11 PC laptop I7 with 16GB of RAM JAWS for Windows   Mac   M2 MBP 14 Pro VoiceOver   Other   Perkins Brailler Brailliant BI40X Orcam Victor Reader Stream 3 Braille embosser iPhone 14 Pro iPad Bluetooth keyboard Smart phone or tablet stand Stella Trek Mini Guide Shokz   Where to get assistance on deciding best tech fit or funding.   VA AT Help Desk. VA AT service. VA Bursary awards Job accesss Etc   Call Vision Australia on 1300 847 466 or email info@visionaustralia.org   For many of the products, go to the VA Store online shop:   Https://shop.visionaustrlaia.org   Contact the Vision Store email visionstore@visionaustralia.org    A few more things.   The Weatherology app for iOS   Using Human speech to announce the Weather.   https://apps.apple.com/au/app/weatherology-weather-together/id557268375     Chat GPT comes to the Android Play Store   Actually I'm going to sneak Bing from Microsoft in here as it uses Chat GPT 4, and is of course on both Android and iOS   https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.microsoft.bing&hl=en&gl=USSupport 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.

Sam is joined by Maysa Abouzeid, a Melbourne-based athlete competing in blind judo competitions around the world. She speaks about her experiences as a judoka with lived experience of blindness, and her path to the 2024 Summer Paralympics in Paris. You'll also hear from Leeanne from the library about some upcoming events and new book releases, and Sarah from the shop is back to chat about the latest products available in the Vision Store.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.

Laying the Ground work for 2023 from the Aira Blog   Free minute and subscription changes.   https://aira.io/strong2023/   Stella Trek Update to 1.1   Adding a compass feature for the start of a route, and other changes.   Last week to get orders in to Vision Store before Dec 9 shipped out of warehouse.   This is the week if you want to get orders before Christmas, just a last minute reminder.   Library of Obsolete Sounds Including Plenty of Sounds of Old Tech   This is a great resource such as listening to old typewriters, rotary phones etc.   Article webpage   https://www.theverge.com/2022/11/28/23481711/obsolete-sounds-project-cities-and-memory-modem   Direct Link to webpage   http://citiesandmemory.com/obsolete-sounds/   Late 2022 Speech Synthesiser Characters   Listen to over an hour of various different synthesisers through the years having a conversation with each other, about 30 seconds or so per synthesizer.   Direct link   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LsJS7SZdkAI   Apple Accessibility Show Cases the Power of Independence    A great fast short video with audio description outlining how iOS accessibility enables.   Direct link   https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tVErGewfgdg&t=1s__;!!BW9V2p7J0Kl2QvQ!DTUumvUhtAi9vjA89WKCZZO6ayf2jHQ1-89kZVYIcOcJ8PPGVr7TzTXgWv8EPjp5GbauDlW03NQZH-yBnXqd2S75Fmqw$   Article   https://9to5mac.com/2022/11/30/apple-accessibility-video/   How to Send Special affects via Message to Message on iPhone   Typing in certain words like Happy Birthday results in some very cool visual affects.   https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/tech/what-words-cause-iphone-effects   Search All Apple Keynotes on Context   If you are an Apple geek like me, you can type in any word you like and the AI system will bring up the keynotes where the word was mentioned and you can start listening to that part of the keynote straight away.   https://addcontext.xyz/search/apple-keynotes  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.

Apple Category Resorted and Thin Downed to Major Product iTems on the Vision Australia  Shop website   Rather than over 160 items, it is now 16 items which represent the main products in each Apple product line.   https://shop.visionaustralia.org/everyday-technology/apple.html   Evidence 111 - New Audio Game   Another great audio game hits the market. You are a Detective and you have to solve the possible crime that may or not be revealed in file 111 in the Evidence room. Depending on what choices you make, the game has 10 outcomes. Find it either on ht iOS App Store or Google Play Store.   Shokz Comparison Page between the current Shokz head phones   Whilst not a fantastic comparison page as these things go, it does give you enough info to consider each head set. Vision Store soon will be selling the Shokz Move, Run, Run Mini, OPencomm, and Opencomm UC headsets.   https://shokz.com.au/pages/compare-products   The aLady Now lets you change English Voices on the Fly   Say Alexa “Change Voice” and you will be given the choice to try out a number of new voices for Male and female. For each voice, you can say “choose that one” or “hear another one”. Enjoy.   https://www.theverge.com/23475121/amazon-alexa-english-accent-switch-update-region-free   Yale Access Assure SL Smart Dead Lock First of my recent two purchases. This is a smart Dead Lock which has a touch keypad on the outside of the door, and the actual dead lock itself inside the door which contains all the smart stuff, a manual lock knob, and a privacy physical button.   The Touch keypad is only useful for people with useful vision. However, you can put your whole hand over the keypad to manually lock the dead lock when you leave home.   Via the Yale Access app for iOS which is the one I'm using, you can set a 8 digit master code, a code for another Owner of the house, and permanent or temporary guest PIN numbers. . With the app, you can also lock and lock the door plus it enables you to fully setup for Home Kit access so that via Siri on your Apple Watch or iPhone, you can say Hey Siri “unlock” or “Lock” front door. You can also access the app via Home Kit on the iPad and Mac, but the only way you can use Siri is on your personal wearable device: i.e. iPhone or Apple Watch.   So when I want to lock or unlock the front door, I can say to my iPhone or Apple Watch, unlock or lock door via Siri.   If you want to use the lock with Google or Amazon, you will have to get a network hub for the lock to allow wifi connectivity to the lock itself.   https://www.yalehome.com/au/en/products/smart-products/assure-lock-series/yale-assure-lock-sl   JBL Party Box 310 Bluetooth Outdoor Speaker   The 2nd of my purchases. I've always wanted an outdoor Bluetooth speaker, hence this one in all its glory. Connect two smart phones/tablets to stream music, have your own light show keeping beat to the music, plug in a microphone and sing along, play very very loud music, and much much more.   On the way, and I'll let you know all about it when it gets here, dispatched today as we go to air.   https://www.jbl.com.au/PARTYBOX310-.html?dwvar_PARTYBOX310-_color=Black-APAC-Current&cgid=loudspeakers#start=1  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.

It's a special episode this week as we celebrate International Day of People with Disability. You'll hear a new voice on the show this week as Mark Jackman joins the show. Mark is a puppy trainer from Seeing Eye Dogs but he's also an avid golfer and he catches up with World Blind Golf CEO, Neil Herdegen, to speak about the ways World Blind Golf is innovating and making golf accessible for the blind and low vision community. You'll also hear from Tess, she's back this week chatting with Rina Gocaj and Flo Elmazi from Sisterwould, an inclusive haircare brand featuring products which have been designed to be accessible for people who are blind or have low vision.  And finally on the show this week, Helen catches up with Tony Wu from the Vision Store to speak about the some possible gift ideas from the shop as we approach the holiday break.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 show, David interviews Tony Wu (Product and DVA manager for the Vision store) about the Vision Buddy: a virtual head set for watching TV type content, accessing your PC or gaming Console, and using the same head set as a video magnifier.   To find out more about the Vision Buddy, please call the Vision Store on 1300 847 466 or email visionstore@visionaustralia.org.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.

As we are a bit over iOS 16 etc, I'll just point you to the Applevis website as a good starting point.   Strap Tech O&M device     I'm still in 2 minds about this product, mainly how the vibrations are felt from the main unit over even thin clothing.   For more info, check out:     https://www.strap.tech https://www.applevis.com   Interesting Prototype from Telstra for AFL   Tactile pad to keep track of the ball, interesting concept.   https://www.gizmodo.com.au/2022/09/telstra-touch-and-track/     Next Exploring Webinar with me (David Woodbridge) - Ask the Vision Store Staff     If you have any questions of staff from the Vision Store, here is your chance to ask them.   Zoom register link is:   https://visionaustralia.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_JspaBkTqSr-fyqHGQ3xipw   Gift Vouchers Now Available from the Vision Australia Vision Store     Find out more at:   https://shop.visionaustralia.org/gift-cards.html   Apple AirTags No Longer Available from the Vision Store     Due to safety concerns, VA has decided not to make available the AirTags from Apple. You are still able to purchase them from Apple themselves.   https://www.applevis.com.auSupport 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.

We're very excited this week to welcome Commonwealth Games dual gold medalist and Vision Australia ambassador Jess Gallagher to the program. Jess was the recent winner of two gold medals in the cycling program but she's also competed in everything from athletics to skiing to rowing, and she catches up with Sam to celebrate following the conclusion of the Games. Then after Sam chats with Jess, Helen joins the show to catch up with Alexandra from the Vision Store in Bendigo with some Father's Day gift ideas for dads out there who are blind or have low vision.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.

Vision Australia manager of commercial services Michael Linke joins the show this week to chat about the new Vision Store website, which recently launched with a new range of products and videos. Sam also speaks with Vision 2020 policy and advocacy manager Carly Iles about the organisation's advocacy plans regarding the new federal government, and then finally Sam catches up with Helen Velissaris to chat about the latest issue of For Your Information, otherwise known as FYI.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.

Sight Tech Global Virtual Event on December 1 US Time   All about looking at current and future trends in computer vision and AI for blind or low vision.   https://techcrunch.com/2021/11/10/sight-tech-global-agenda-announced/   How to Use Apple's Legacy Feature After You Die   A somewhat sad thing to think about, but giving your loved ones access to your digital information is a good idea.   https://www.macrumors.com/guide/legacy-contact/?utm_source=feedly&utm_medium=webfeeds   Game Accessibility Tags are Now Available on Xbox Store   Being able to tell what Xbox games are accessible for various disability groups is a positive step forward.   https://news.xbox.com/en-us/2021/11/16/game-accessibility-feature-tags-now-available/   Background Sounds Makes your iPhone a White Noise Generator   Many apps can do this on your iOS device, but having it builtin is pretty neat as well.   https://www.macobserver.com/tips/deep-dive/background-sounds-makes-your-iphone-a-white-noise-generator/   Warning About a Common Issue with a VoiceOver Feature   Had a customer this week who had rang Apple Accessibility because VoiceOver wasn't working in Settings, Health etc,  they couldn't help at all. I Fixed it in about 5 seconds: Screen Recognition almost needs a warning when accidentally turned on from the VO Rotor that it may impact app navigation.   Seeing AI verses the Live Text feature within the Camera app   Interesting, just used live text within the camera app verses Seeing AI Short Text to read the number off my new credit card: live text worked perfectly, Seeing AI almost nothing besides a few random numbers.   Hidrate Sparks 3 Smart Bottle   This water bottle when paired to the Hydrate app on your iPhone allows you to keep track of your water intake, which is something I've needed for a while being a bit bad about drinking water during the day.   https://www.reviewed.com/features/hidrate-spark-3-smart-water-bottle-review   My Top Tech Choices for Christmas   Last week Kristie listed some amazing products from the Vision Store, here are my top gadgets both from the VA Store and else where.   Aftershokz Opencomm (from Aftershokz)   Orbit Writer (from VA Store)   Amazon Echo Dot 4th generation (from Amazon)   Versa Slate (AT Guys)   Apple Watch S7 for iPhone users (Apple Store or Va Store)   Dot Watch (from Dot Watch)   Tactile Watch with Stretch Band (from Amazon) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Windows 11 Available   US October 5.   Just a note, no real reason to update as yet.   Windows 11 Accessibility Quick Reference   https://www.onmsft.com/feature/windows-11-accessibility   A very Cool set of Watch OS 8 Hand gestures   Clench, double clench, pinch, and double pinch for navigating with VoiceOver or Assistive Touch.   Amazon September event   New products coming like the Echo Show 15, no date on their arrival in Australia.   https://www.theverge.com/2021/9/28/22692147/amazon-devices-event-echo-ring-biggest-announcements   My Happy Experience with Amazon Fire TV 4k   I've had previous versions of the Fire TV stick, but very sluggish with VoiceView. Now with the 4K it is absolutely fine.   What is New in JAWS, Zoomtext and fusion 2022 Public Beta   Outstanding feature is split audio to put Jaws on the left and say zoom on the right, visa versa or normal stereo for both JaWS and Zoom etc. Command is Ins+Space, V Volume, B Balance, then LeftArrow, RightArrow orUpArrow for stereo.   https://support.freedomscientific.com/Downloads/PublicBeta   Dolphin Guide Reader Pod Discontinued   Dolphin has advised the Vision Store that the Dolphin Guide Reader Pod is no longer being developed See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stella catches up with Lexie from Crime Stoppers, who is involved with a new show on Vision Australia Radio called SafetyVision, a 15-minute weekly program which aims to keep the blind and low vision community safe. You'll also hear from LEAP graduate mentor Caitlin, she chats with Stella about the experiences and skills she gained from taking part in the 2020 LEAP program, and why she was so keen to become a mentor in 2021. Then finally this week, we have a new voice debuting on the show as Helen Velissaris joins Talking Vision to chat with Julie from the shop about the latest spring offerings from the Vision Store. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Whoops, A Belated Happy Birthday to Apple April 1 1976   On Apple’s Birthday each year, I always tend to look back fondly on my first Apple computer which was an Apple IIE: CPU and keyboard in one unit, single floppy disk drive, and a very tiny monitor. For access, I used an Echo synthesiser, TextTalker software, and several talking programs like WordTalk.   https://www.macobserver.com/news/happy-birthday-apple-founded-april-1-1976/   Tech Friday for Newcastle April 2021 - Smart Home Tech   Andreas, Rebecca, Ray and I share our smart home tech we use plus some other suggestions.   Video Link:   https://visionaustralia.zoom.us/rec/play/DREf3bnMllHfc4KwjtY-PTwD3EXK1jssMjy_ZQs3Spwuh-CUCvr0CKBDEyWSpID_TOGv0ioxYaXJgw9l.JlQAvmKtHBu8COzL?continueMode=true&_x_zm_rtaid=2e6Or3WzR8WKoDJsPSUnCQ.1617940416126.c644e99ffce760db9a670aa3855f4335&_x_zm_rhtaid=930   Exploring Technology with David Woodbridge - In the Kitchen low and High Tech   In my latest Exploring Tech Webinar for March, in the Kitchen, Alex, Tony and I share low and high tech ideas for working in the kitchen.   Video Link:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVODmlqHGw8   Product Video from Me - Victor Reader Stream   In my continuing product video series on my favourite products from the Vision australia Vision Store, this one is a mini get up and going with the Victor Reader Stream which allows you to play daisy books, take recorded notes, read documents, listen to podcasts and radio stations online.   Video Link:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xIcVNtNU0EM   Vision australia Vision Store product link for the Victor Reader Stream:   https://shop.visionaustralia.org/shop/product/esrm021   Code Jumper Now Available on the Android Google Play Store   Code Jumper which is the physical series of pods to teach the concept of block programming for students available from APH and developed by Microsoft, now has it’s Code Jumper software available on Android, not just Windows 10 computers. Tip - like Windows 10, your screen reader (Talkback) will speak out of the Hub speaker on Android as the Code Jumper Hub which the pods are connected to acts as a hBT head set. Whole setup works extremely well.   Android Play Store Link to Code Jumper:   https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.aph.codejumper   Vision australia Vision Store Product Link for Code Jumper hardware link:   https://shop.visionaustralia.org/shop/product/es1208-so   Code Jumper website for All tutorials, Curriculum etc:    https://codejumper.com   Smart Tab Plus     The new way to find items from Samsung.   https://news.samsung.com/global/introducing-the-new-galaxy-smarttagplus-the-smart-way-to-find-lost-items?utm_source=nr_twitter&utm_medium=social   How to Find 3rd Party Accessories Using Apple’s Find My   3rd party support for Find My Items Tab in Find My from Apple, still no sign of AirTags.   https://9to5mac.com/2021/04/10/how-to-track-third-party-accessories-using-apples-find-my/   All the Best Head Phones for Working at Home in 2021   This article which goes through a variety of head phones is just a good reminder what is available and at different prices.   https://www.cnet.com/news/the-best-headphones-for-work-at-home-for-2021/?ServiceType=twitter&UniqueID=CD12D100-99FE-11EB-9F14-8B263A982C1E&ftag=COS-05-10aaa0b&PostType=link&TheTime=2021-04-10T13%3A15%3A20   How Often Should One Shut Down Their iPhone   Looks like at least once a week.   https://www.idropnews.com/news/heres-how-often-you-should-shut-down-your-iphone-and-why/98673/   The Latest Trade in Deals for Apple Devices in Australia   The old story, the longer you wait to trade something in to upgrade, the less the trade in price is. However, I think having a backup to your iPhone by keeping an older one around is still a great idea.   https://www.gizmodo.com.au/2021/04/new-apple-iphone-ipad-watch-trade-in-deals-australia/

A Reminder that the CSUN COD Tech Conference 2021 on this Week   As we spoken about last week, the free Exhibit Hall is open from Wednesday to Saturday our time in Australia with the hours of opening being up to 2PM Sydney time, giving us a civilised time to attend. All you have to do to attend is to register, and again, it is free.   https://csunconference.org/exhibit-hall/   New Vision Australia Talking Microwave   Simple to use with only 4 buttons, 15 volumes, and best of all it is only $600.   Product Shop Page:   https://shop.visionaustralia.org/shop/product/es0245   Video Demo of Features and Benefits   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7kk2wcSPiYQ&t=59s   Arkon Kitchen, crafting, videoing etc smart phone Stand   This is now available in the Vision Store by phone order at the moment, my best stand I’ve used yet and keep using. Product ID is ES0115.   Vision Store Youtube Channel   Here is the direct link to the Vision Store Youtube channel where all my product videos are including the demo of the New Vision Australia Talking Microwave, and my Exploring Tech Monthly Webiknars.   https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCS-YhQt9EmZ6Nl-w8kWZbjA   Exploring Technology Webinar - Apple Accessibility and Beyond   The Feb 24 Exploring Tech Webinar with David Woodbridge - Apple Accessibility and Beyond - is now up on the Vision Store Youtube channel, here is the direct  link:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=57-rws8kjtw&t=109s   Next Exploring Tech Webinar with David Woodbridge - In tThe Kitchen   Alex and myself will be going through low and high tech stuff for you to use in the kitchen.   Registration page:   https://visionaustralia.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_foBkS8xGQEanaKCuHsYbZg   Demo of Using Airdrop from Mac to iPhone and iPhone to Mac   AS I am doing product videos for work, this is how I get the videos from meh iPhone to my Mac, and more often than not, when I need to read articles on my Mac, I usually sent them to my iPhone to read. This demo is exactly about this process.   https://davidwoodbr.podbean.com/e/demo-of-using-airdrop-from-iphone-to-mac-and-mac-to-iphone/   Comments on my new Braided Solo Apple Watch Band   There are two types of Solo Bands: the Solo Band, and the Braided Solo Band. The Solo Band is the cheapest, very much like the Sports Band, whilst the Braided Solo Band almost reminds me of the Sport Loop with the Loop and Hook. Having one continuous band for my Apple Watch that I can just slide on and off is very convenient.   https://www.apple.com/au/shop/watch/bands

Back To School (education in general) Vision Store Webinar by David Woodbridge   In this webinar on the 27th of Jan from 12:30-13:30 ESDT, I’ll be discussing assistive and main stream software and hardware to keep you in good stead for the year.   Register at:   https://visionaustralia.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_r9cjH_XRTtydmVAEShfSbw   Competition to Win a Mantis Q40 is still Open Until the 31st of Jan 2021   In fifty words or less, explain why you would need a Mantis q40.   https://us10.list-manage.com/survey?u=4fb7b10e02480183869d219e8&id=6cf73b1a06   Aftershokz OPenMove Bone Conduction Head Phones   A reminder that the Vision Store now has the Aftershokz OpenMove bone conduction head phones in stock, still one of my most used head phones.   https://shop.visionaustralia.org/shop/product/aftershokz-openmove-wireless-bluetooth-headphones   Update on Stuff from CES 2021   It was great to hear about the fact that there were a number of assistive technology related vendors at CES covering such products as the Orcam, IrisVision, and Code Jumper.   IO’d have to say my favourite product was hiring about the Smart Doggy Door.   https://www.cnet.com/pictures/the-weirdest-new-gadgets-at-ces-2021/13/?ServiceType=twitter&PostType=link&UniqueID=B77776DC-55EF-11EB-9662-7B300EDC252D&TheTime=2021-01-13T22:36:02&ftag=COS-05-10aaa0b   ATIA Virtual Conference 2021 Registration Open   https://www.csun.edu/cod/conference/sessions/index.php/public/website_pages/view/24   CSUN 2021 Virtual Conference Now Open For Registration    https://www.csun.edu/cod/conference/sessions/index.php/public/website_pages/view/24   Samsung Jan 14 Event   Samsung Buds Pro (Jan 15), Smart Tags to use with Smart Things Find (Jan 29 and later in year for Tags Plus), Samsung Galaxy S21/S21 Plus (Jan 29) and Galaxy 21 Ultra 29 Jan (in other words the Pro version), new 1UIw across Samsung devices, new S pen for 21 Ultra only, better integration with Android audio, Digital key for cars, new improved partnership with Google, new version of Talkback on S21.   https://insights.samsung.com/2021/01/04/samsung-galaxy-unpacked-2021-watch-the-livestream-here/   Search With Your Voice Button Now On youtube.com   Works quite nicely, just remember to try and mute your screen reader if you are using one.   https://www.youtube.com   Galaxy ID Mate Discontinued After 25 Years   End of an era for this stand alone bar code reading device. Parts and databases will still be available for a while to come.   https://mailchi.mp/envisionamerica/id-mate-is-being-discontinued?e=b2a317a265   A Nice Little Bonus  with the VA Connect App for the VA Library   If you happen to use an M1 Mac (ability to run iOS apps), you can use the VA Connect app quite nicely on the computer. Some odd issues but not to bad including: inability to change categories from “All”, text to speech voice for daisy text (such as newspapers) using last speech voice on the Mac, table of contents within a book not working that well, and not sure where downloaded books go. However, as far as searching for a book, adding a book to your bookshelf, listening to a book, moving forward or backward through a book, and changing the speech rate, all works fine on the Mac.   https://apps.apple.com/au/app/vision-australia-va-connect/id1051618020

Reminder - Vision Store Orders by 6 Dec 2020   Just to make sure you get your delivery’s before Christmas, put your orders in before the 6th of DEc 2020.   Speaking of Orders, the Orbit Reader 20 Braille display and note taker, has been reducedback to the introductory price of $600 whilst stocks last.   As they say, get it now! NB - as this is a special order, you will have to ring the Vision Store on 1300 847 466 or visit a Vision Store.   https://shop.visionaustralia.org/shop/product/orbit-reader-20   Have Received my HomePod Mini’s   These speakers are small, great sound, and does everything the full size HomePod does such as intercom and transferring audio/phone calls etc.   Have a listen to my demo of the new HomePod Mini, I’ll think you will be impressed.   https://s128.podbean.com/pb/9fe9e031ceab77af52378da67ee3a76d/5fc4611c/data2/fs54/339150/uploads/Demo_of_the_HomePod_Mini_using_VoiceOver6mkep.mp3?pbss=e4ba7e2a-e87d-523c-b901-96f5e3e89c17   My First M1 Mac mini Demo   I’m still extremely impressed by the M1 Mac mini. As you will hear, VoiceOver is simply efficient to use on the new M1 chip, especially with iOS apps running on the Mac.   https://davidwoodbr.podbean.com/e/m1-mac-minidemo-using-voiceover/   David’s Own Christmas Ideas   Here are some suggestions from my Toy Room.   Dyson Air Purifier, Heater, and Fan. Dyson V10 Animal Plus Portable Vacuum Cleaner. Samsung Accessible TV (small). Apple TV. ChromeCast with Google TV.

New Products from Google   Two New  Pixel phones, new Nest Audio (update to the original Google Home), and Chromecast with Google TV.     Because it sounds interesting, I’ve ordered myself a Google TV which I should get in a few weeks, a plug in stick to any TV with an HDMI port, with it’s own Remote, and as I’ve been assured, it will have Talkback.   Now my little 24 inch LED TV now has both the Apple TV, and soon the Google TV plugged in to it.   good links on the Blind Bargains webpage on the Google Announcement at:   https://www.blindbargains.com/bargains.php?m=22013   Vision Store is now on Social Media and we’d like you to help build our following. We are generally known as Vision Store VA.   So please follow and like us on the following platforms:    Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/VisionStoreVA     Instagram:    https://www.instagram.com/visionstoreva/   Twitter:   https://twitter.com/VisionStoreVA     YouTube:   https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCS-YhQt9EmZ6Nl-w8kWZbjA     GoldWave on the iOS App Store   This app where you can both record and edit with Voiceover looks extremely interesting. Free with in-app purchases.   https://www.applevis.com/apps/ios/music/goldwave?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter   Exploring Technology with David Woodbridge   This is a new series that I’ve started via the Vision Store looking at various suppliers and technology.    - This webinar for September 2020, was looking at the relationship between Vision Store and the Good Guys along with some interesting products that I have also purchased.   https://s181.podbean.com/pb/606aedd2747c7f68c7b6d43ffb810a63/5f794165/data4/fs145/4313470/uploads/Vision_Store_Webinar_The_Good_Guys7dpmn.mp3?pbss=ed30dcb7-f7ea-531a-99da-081096fd9cd4   Upcoming Presentations from Me   Newcastle Tech Friday October 9 10AM You are invited to a Zoom meeting. Topic: Apple, Android, and Security. Andraes, Ray, and David will be covering this topic. Date and Time: Friday 9 October. 10:00AM Sydney time to join the Zoom Meeting activate the below link to attend the meeting on pc, smart phone or Mac. Join Zoom Meeting https://visionaustralia.zoom.us/j/97123337881   ATUG October 14 7:30PM You are invited to a Zoom meeting. topic: All about iOS 14 and other Apple recent updates. David Woodbridge will be speaking about the recent software updates to Apple devices. Date and Time: Wednesday 14 October. 7:30 pm Sydney time Anyone is welcome to join, only members of ATUG receive recordings of meetings. to join the Zoom Meeting activate the below link to attend the meeting on pc, smart phone or Mac. Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom.us/j/814228683?pwd=WTR6L0RLRHB1Nk53dmhFRE5wNUZzUT09 Meeting ID: 814 228 683 Password 200200

A Reminder About the Upcoming Good Guys Webinar If Your Listening Live This Week, Wednesday 30Th of Sep at 12:30PM Sydney Time Join the Webinar  Registration page follows, but it will also be recorded, and place on the Vision Store Youtube channel, I’ll post the link to the webinar in next weeks show or check me out on Twitter @dwoodbridge where I will post the link as soon as I have it.   https://visionaustralia.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_-FEILPsgQeOZOR1JO7bvzA   A new Gadget in My House - Dyson  Air Purifier, Cooling, and Heating Fan   setup was easy: install filters on both sides, plug in to power and turn on with single button.   Tactile single button on middle front of unit can be found easily and gives good feedback when pressed.   Buttons on the remote don’t stand out that much, but are usable.  Changing modes, timers etc is not accessible via using the remote on the screen of the fan, but using the App or Amazon Echo skill it is.  Simple operation of the fan is possible.   The remote magnetically connects to the top of the fan, so you won’t loose it.   When turning the unit on or off via the remote, you do hear a beep, although it is very quiet.   The Dyson fan supports both Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity.  I downloaded the Dyson Link app,  logged in as a new user, crated account, and then linked up the Dyson fan to my iPhone via the app.   The Dyson Link app I’d have to say is pretty much accessible: i.e. I can turn fan on or off, check indoor and outdoor air quality (in your account you can set your City to get outdoor readings), turn on off Cool, Heat, oscillation etc.  The only issue I had was changing the fan speed, but I found by double tapping and holding then dragging finger up or down using VoiceOver I could change the fan speed.   There were two progress bar areas within the app, which I’m assuming are the state of both of the filters, this wasn’t accessible, so sighted assistance I guess to read the LCD screen on the unit itself.   The Amazon Echo Dyson skill (you login with your Dyson account via the skill within the Amazon Alexa app) is 100 percent accessible and you can seem to control all functions of the Dyson as I pointed above, pretty damn amazing.   Good news is, you can get your filter percentage of use via the Amazon skill, so no need to get assistance for reading the units screen or the Dyson Link app.  In actually fact, I use the Dyson Fan all the time from my Amazon Echo.   The above is my initial playing thoughts after a few weeks of use.  Retail was about $850 or so, still impress by how accessible it is.   Note - you can order Good Guys products via the Vision Store, email visionstore@visionaustralia.org for more information. And no, I didn’t buy the unit just to do the Good Guys webinar, it just turned out that way smile.   https://www.thegoodguys.com.au/dyson-hp04-pure-hotcool-purifying-fan-heater-whitesilver-244384-01   My Two New Apple Watch’s, actually one is Ellen’s   Having used both the Apple Watch S6 and SE, I can honestly say it is a huge improvement in responsiveness over the Apple Watch S3.  I find myself using the Workout app on the Watch so much more due to the quick gesture access of VoiceOver, feels like I’m using VoiceOver on my iPhone.     Note - yes, you can order Apple Watch’s directly from Vision Australia if you wish.   Another Small Purchase, 24 Inch LED TV for Me to Use with my Apple TV   Just purchased this from Harvey Norman and it works well.  It is not a smart TV with text to speech, simply a small portable TV that is set to HDMI 1 for use with my Apple TV which is of course fully accessible with VoiceOver.  No more asking my boys to use the TV either in the Lounge or Toy Room.   This 24 inch unit was a generic brand from Harvey Norman and I think was only about $190 or so (even has a DVD drive which I don’t use, and it also has a 12 vault port so you can run it in the car if you wish). The Youtube Recording of the Digital Access Webinar, Looking in to The Future     This was posted a week or so ago where Charlii and myself talked about the current and future of Digital access and how we think it is going.   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PA1UB937tts&feature=youtu.be   New Echo Devices   I know they are new, but I find the current lot of Echos I used are still doing just fine: i.e. they still run Alexa just fine, so if you don’t need to upgrade, then perhaps you shouldn’t smile, after all they are supposed to be a smart speaker first and a music/media speaker second.   https://www.amazon.com.au/s?k=alexa+echo&adgrpid=87733051635&gclid=CjwKCAjw8MD7BRArEiwAGZsrBdWlG5_unFf13iYmwu6JOofScLMyPFHe9CFYjFgIxZ_UhP5dWnpoyhoCP8sQAvD_BwE&hvadid=468016213639&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9071637&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=b&hvrand=18398837950634898145&hvtargid=kwd-296997957011&hydadcr=5371_165395&tag=googhydr0au-22&ref=pd_sl_4yyzy6ybzg_b

Quick Note About the Apple Event (Aussie Time 3AM on the 16th of September)   As scheduling goes, Talking Tech will miss the Apple Event here in Australia, so rather than speculating, we’ll do a full update in next weeks show.   In the meantime, you can check out:   http://www.applevis.com   As always for a comprehensive update of the Apple Event.   If you follow podcasts, check out the Tech Doctor Blog and Podcast, MacBreak Weekly, and others.   Apple itself usually puts out a podcast of the event on their own podcast feed as well.   Newcastle Tech Friday for September 11 2020   In this Newcastle Talking Tech, myself and others, chatted about our favorite tech items. Eg Sangean Accessible Radio, Sunu Band/Aftershokz, and the still excellent $20,00 deal for the  Amazon Echo 2 which is still a great smart speaker - all available from the Vision Store:   https://shop.visionaustralia.orgfrom the Vision Store.   If you want to get hold of the Sleep Phones within Australia you can go to Sleep Solutions in Manly Sydney:   https://www.sleepsolutions.com.au/sleepphones-wireless-headband-sleep-headphones-with-bluetooth   Here is the link to listen to the full Newcastle Tech Friday workshop - Tech Gadgets Galore:   https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/h6u8p5/Newcastle_Tech_Friday_for_September_20209m7q5.mp3   3 Items That I Am Still Looking forward to looking at In the Future: Oura Ring, Amazon Loop (ring), and the Amazon Halo (band)   all of which will hopefully come to Australia hopefully early 2021, I’m interested in the rings for tracking sleep, and not having to use a band which I’ve never really been comfortable with.   Oura Ring   https://www.choice.com.au/health-and-body/diet-and-fitness/sportswear-and-shoes/articles/oura-ring-review?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=oura_ring_review   Amazon Echo Loop (Ring)   https://www.amazon.com/Echo-Loop/dp/B07JPK4XJ6   Amazon Halo Band   https://www.imore.com/amazon-halo-band?utm_source=im_tw&utm_medium=tw_card&utm_content=69135&utm_campaign=social   How To turn Off Amazon Echo’s Creepy (smile) Whisper Mode   Actually, if you whisper Amazon Echo will whisper back or if you speak normally it will speak back normally, so really no fuss smile.     https://www.lifehacker.com.au/2020/09/how-to-turn-off-alexas-creepy-whisper-mode/   Revisiting Bindi Maps, They Have been Up To a Lot   Android version now available. Melbourne Sports Ground, National Library in Canberra, and St Vincents Hospital in Sydney all Bindi Mapped.   https://mailchi.mp/0b9caf8bad5d/android-launches-major-sporting-and-health-facilities-bindimapped-were-hiring   New FCC Filing in the US Points to New Bose Frames Glasses   Good news for this Bose Frames line of Sun Glasses, of course, this is without the Audio 3D which was shut down as a project by Bose in June this year 2020.   https://www.theverge.com/2020/8/28/21405504/bose-sunglasses-audio-fcc-filings-frames   A General Good Thing to Get for your NBN Modem   I’m sure other ISP providers do this besides the one that I used which is Telstra, and that is a 4G backup SIMM card in the modem, so that if the wired NBN line goes down, the modem automatically switch’s to the backup mobile 4G SIMM card and keeps you on line, very slow, but better than nothing, especially if you have a smart home like me.   See you next week for the Apple Event discussion on Talking Tech.

Not Tech Related, But What I Got for Fathers Day   Ok this is going to sound odd, but I got a fairy village to hide in my garden made out of little concrete figures: 6 little cottages, a fairy on a leaf, 3 fairy doors to put besides the trunk of a tree, and a gargoyle to guard the village. I’ve been gradually getting these types of items from my garden over the last year or so from an artist who lives on the Central Coast here in NSW, and thought I’d would share my recent purchases.  I love these cottages as each one is slightly different with the way the roof is done, placement of chimneys, doors, and windows.     There is a link to Cherry’s website below, unfortunately it is mainly jpg files but her contact details are at the bottom of the page. PS so far I have a Chinese Dragon who is in one of the garden beds, a few fish around my water fountain, a few other figurines hiding in the hedge, and now this fairy village, just like having tactile things in my garden.   http://www.cherryart.com.au/   I Now Have My Orbit Writer (portable and light Braille input keyboard)   Oddly, my Orbit Writer turned up just after I finished the show last week.  Having a week or so to play with it, here is my first demo podcast of the Orbit Writer for you to to have a listen. I really think this is a fantastic product, and hoping over the next month or so it should be being sold via Vision Store.   https://s177.podbean.com/pb/570704b5cd04061c53a37ef0b799aa63/5f56be9c/data2/fs54/339150/uploads/Orbit_writer_initial_demo92776.mp3?pbss=e7b4a5a6-cd6d-501f-a8b8-f58b14232213   My Thoughts About the iPad Pro and Smart Keyboard with Trackpad   For low vision folks, the trackpad is excellent.  For folks who are  blind, you get a really solid keyboard to type on, you can angle the iPad perfectly for video meetings, very light, and my big thing about using the iPad, you can Command+Tab between apps like you can do on a Mac or Windows PC.   And here is my podcast about the iPad Pro.   https://s147.podbean.com/pb/a19a815faa7a6080646d23672e85e9e9/5f56c6a7/data3/fs54/339150/uploads/iPad_Pro_11_with_VoiceOver_17u2mk.mp3?pbss=31ade534-0105-51a7-946d-e26176404a12   How Easy it is to Transfer Music from Your iOS device to the HomePod   Simply hold your iOS device next to your HomePod, and the music you are listening to is transferred.   https://support.apple.com/guide/homepod/play-audio-using-your-ios-or-ipados-device-apdfb81a72e4/ios?cid=tw_sc_handoff_080520   How to Adjust the Haptic Time Speed on Your Apple Watch -    This can be done either In Accessibility settings on the watch itself or via the Apple Watch app.  You can adjust the speed between 0 very very slow or 100 percent which is quite fast.   Here is my podcast.   https://s122.podbean.com/pb/d1eaef2fc37978dac65bd0f09ab86d7f/5f56cbc2/data2/fs54/339150/uploads/adjusting_time_taptic_feedback_mp3_on_the_Apple_Watcha8bei.mp3?pbss=2a643383-fc3e-5ada-a02b-c09114aad9e3   Another USE for My Apple Watch - Unlocking My Mac   Not sure if folks remember, but you can unlock your Mac with the Apple Watch when you are waring it and it is unlocked. Have a look in System Preferences, Security and Privacy.   Still a Good Reminder - How to Get the Best Sound and Mic experience with Using Zoom   Some handy tips in this article about using Zoom audio features.   https://www.techrepublic.com/article/how-to-improve-your-audio-in-a-zoom-meeting/?ftag=COS-05-10aaa0g&taid=5f45fb9a6a7c4e00013cb39a&utm_campaign=trueAnthem:+Twitter+Card&utm_medium=trueAnthemCard&utm_source=twitterCard

OpenPay Now Available at the Vision Australia Vision Store   This is where you can pay off an item over $1000 from the Vision Store over a period of time. For more info, please contact the Vision Store on 1300 847 466 or visionstore@visionaustralia.org.   https://shop.visionaustralia.org/openpay   Mosen At Large Episode 54 - A Review of Podcast Hosting Services   A good chat about podcast hosting services, including podbean smile. A great way to get your voice out there.   Apple Watch OS Beta 4 - VoiceOver Not Working   Whilst I understand that this is beta software, I think it is somewhat inexcusable for Apple to release beta software where it is known that VoiceOver is broken (as explained in the beta release notes). There would have been no way I’m assuming if the Apple Watch face wasn’t working visually, that Apple would have released beta 4, so if it is not ok for sighted folks, why is it ok for people who are blind.   How do You Use Face ID When Waring a Mask   In short you can’t really.  An update to iOS 13 allowed FaceID to detect that a mask was being used a promptly bring up the password pin code screen to unlock your iPhone. This is where I wish Apple would have had both Face ID and Touch ID in the same phone, I don’t have this issue as I use my iPhone SE 2020 when out and about with Touch ID.   Why I like my Mac/Apple Products So Much   Last week I published a podcast on my iSee feed about why I like using my Mac/Apple stuff so much, here are the main points from that podcast (link to the podcast follows):   Hardly any support/re-installation issues,. MacBook Chimes when plugged in to power. Apple Watch, Touch ID or keyboard to login in to Mac. Dictation. AirDrop. Universal copy between Mac/iOS. iCloud/documents in the Cloud. Spell check where ever you are typing. Easy switching by shortcut keys between main folders in Finder - Applications, Home, Documents, Utilities, and Downloads. Talking System Clock for Hour or  Quarter, Half and 3 Quarter hour. Talking System Messages. Talking selected text keyboard shortcut. AirPlay. Easily switch system sound output via adding  Volume Menu to Status Menu. The option to Play Sound when adjusting the volume just makes life that bit easier for setting the volume at the wright level. No getting stuck if someone mutes the volume on the Mac, shortcut key to switch it back on. Switch easily with my AirPods from Mac, iPhone or Apple Watch. Siri/Type to Siri also available. Common apps Mac/iOS - Books, FaceTime, Find My, Home, Mail, Maps, Messages, Music, News, Notes, Podcasts, Reminders, Safari, TV, and Voice Memos. Then we also have Garage Band, Swift Playgrounds, Pages, Numbers, and Keynote that you can also install. Add to Music )previously iTunes) As a Spoken Track. Make/receive phone calls via iPhone with FaceTime. Preview to easily listen to contents of audio files. Safari Reader mode. TV/Audio Descriptions. Still love being Abel to play chess with the computer and myself which is of course fully accessible on the Mac with the Chess app. Easily add iTunes Gift card codes using the FaceTime camera on the Mac. Turn on Accessibility Menu on Status Menu to check what accessibility options are active. Accessibility Shortcut menu or triple use of Power button/Touch ID. Toggle VoiceOver in several ways - Siri, keyboard short cut or Power/Touch ID on MacBooks. VoiceOver inbuilt training tutorial to get started. VoiceOver with Alex Synthesiser still only synthesiser that actually breaths (up to 200 different breaths). Multiple ways to navigate with VoiceOver - Control+Option or Caps Lock, QuickNav, Lock VO Keys, Numeric Keypad Touch Bar, or Trackpad. When using my iMac, I can still link up a Magic Trackpad and use VoiceOver gestures (the same as on the trackpad on my MacBook). VoiceOver keyboard commands similar subset on iOS. VoiceOver cursor location same as on iOS. VoiceOver keyboard shortcuts to launch Apple Scripts or applications. VoiceOver Screen Curtain. VoiceOver Sounds to assist with navigation. VoiceOver easily supports a wide range of USB/Bluetooth Braille displays (plug in and Play). Easily switch sound sources for VoiceOver.   The Mac fits my work flow for work and home, be mindful to check if it does for you as well.   https://s101.podbean.com/pb/59c7f5333cc4cf84aa905511d121ef20/5f30b3b2/data2/fs54/339150/uploads/why_i_keep_using_the_mac_and_other_apple_productsbqwbw.mp3?pbss=81f76b3e-360d-54e7-b24a-769c54e25512  

A Bit of a Warning with Australia Post (and I guess other Delivery Services)   Last week I received my Orcam Wherable device which was fantastic.  Only problem was, when it was delivered by Australia Post, it was left on top of my Mail Box in the Garden, not at my front door. So jus a warning, keep your eyes and ears open for any delivery’s   cOVID-10 Resource Info pack from Vision Australia   https://www.visionaustralia.org/COVID-Pandemic-Pack-Request?fbclid=IwAR0nyoRFOuOnBFOAW-Rw4OmgEyJWR79tItSMn1ooOw55EgHIEVK7QC2nz2k   Podcast from Me - Using Google Home to Help you “Wash Your Hands”   https://s116.podbean.com/pb/1ed4ef49e4ef00b0df2d2e382dbe8250/5e938495/data2/fs54/339150/uploads/Help_Me_Wash_My_Hands_from_Ok_Google.mp3?pbss=8b8619b2-4af0-5f3f-b155-2ea682b953e1   Free Audio Book - Meet Me Accessibly - A Guide to Zoom Cloud Meetings from a Blind Perspective   https://mosen.org/zoom/   Zoom Improves Security   https://mashable.com/article/zoom-password-waiting-rooms-security-privacy/   Some Nifty Resources to Keep Entertained   Just to spark some ideas for you.   Assistance: Aira, Be-My-Eyes, VA AT Help Desk. Apple accessibility: 1300 365 083. Microsoft accessibility: 1800 280 300. Books: Audible, Apple Books, Google Play Books, Kindle, VA I-Access. Games: Smart Speakers (Echo and Google Home), web sites www.applevis.com and www.audiogames.net. Keeping in touch: Facebook, FaceTime, iMessage, Messenger, Skype, Twitter, Zoom. Music: Apple Music, Google Play Music, Spotify. Smart speakers (play games): Amazon Echo, Google Home. TV: ABC iView, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Disney+, Netflix, Stan, iTunes. Vision Store suggestions: Accessible Sangean Radio, Envoy Connect Daisy Player, Victor Reader Stream.   The New Talkback Braille Keyboard   https://support.google.com/accessibility/android/answer/9728765

Various cOVID-19 Tech info and resources   Apple Closes All of It’s Apple Retail Stores Outside of China Until the 27th of March   Whilst the Apple retail stores will be closed, you can still access Apple online for shopping, and of course the Apple Helpdesk.   Apple’s Australian main Webpage:   https://www.apple.com/au/   Apple Store for iOS:   Best way to shop for Apple Products.   https://apps.apple.com/au/app/apple-store/id375380948   Some Movements with Upcoming Tech Conferences   Apple WWDC 2020 to be a Virtual Conference   A great decision by Apple to move the WWDC 2020 conference to a virtual one.   https://www.imore.com/apple-announces-wwdc-2020-and-its-all-going-be-online   The Microsoft Build conference will also be going virtual, but it appears as if the Google Io Conference is being cancelled.   Online Tools to Keep in Mind for Keeping in Touch   Zoom seems to be the most popular online conference system at the moment, and is fully accessible.   https://zoom.us   Of course, our good old friend Skype.   https://www.skype.com/en/   From Microsoft as well, we have Microsoft Teams which is also accessible.   https://products.office.com/en-au/microsoft-teams/group-chat-software   From Apple, we have FaceTime which can also be used for FaceTime Group calls. FaceTime is pre-installed on iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, and Mac.   https://www.imore.com/facetime   Two Very Helpful Video Assistance Services That Use Your Smart Phone Camera   Be My Eyes Free), and Aira (up to 5 mins for free).  Both run on either iOS or Android.   Be My Eyes Android app: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bemyeyes.bemyeyes&hl=en_AU Be My Eyes iOS app: https://apps.apple.com/au/app/be-my-eyes/id905177575   Aira Android app: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=io.aira.smart&hl=en_AU Aira iOS app: https://apps.apple.com/au/app/aira/id1071584352   Help desks from Apple, Microsoft, and Google (plus Vision Australia AT Help Desk)   Apple - 1300 365 083.   Microsoft - 1800 280 300.   Google - via the Specialist section within the Be My Eyes app.   Vision Australia  Assistive Technology Help Desk - 1300 847 466.   Also, lets not Forget Online Shopping   Both Coles Online and Woolworths online are excellent.   Coles Android App: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.coles.android.shopmate&hl=en_AU Woolworths Android app: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.woolworths&hl=en_AU   Coles online iOS app:  https://apps.apple.com/au/app/coles/id529118855 Woolworths online iOS app: https://apps.apple.com/au/app/woolworths/id975089690   Speaking of Online Stores - The Vision Store   If your worried about being out and about and you still want to get stuff from Vision Store, remember our shop at:   https://shop.visionaustralia.org

A chat About the Canute from a User Perspective   We have Eden Kizer on the show to give us her experiences  of using the Canute. Quantum RLV will be bringing the Canute in to Australia, and should be available in March.   http://www.bristolbraille.co.uk   Samsung Announced Last Week There New Samsung Phone Series   The Samsung S20, S20+, and the S20 Ultra. As always, more camera power, better screen, and larger battery.   https://www.idownloadblog.com/2020/02/11/samsung-galaxy-s20-series-official/   A reminder of the Vision Store and the AT Help Desk Operating Hours   Both the Vision Store and AT Help Desk are available up to 7PM EDST Monday to Friday on 1300 847 466.   My Thoughts on the Belkin Portable Tablet Stand   Recently purchased this stand, in some ways I like it, and in others I don’t. With the ScanJig as I learned not being available any more rather than the stock from Amazon, thought I’d better do a demo on the Belkin Portable stand.   https://davidwoodbr.podbean.com/e/demo-of-another-document-stand-for-ocr-video-conferencing-video-magnification-apps-etc/     A Point About Power Banks and MacBooks in Particular   I just purchased a power bank which besides being able to charge my iPhone and iPad, also can charge my MacBook Pro UsB C MacBooks.   https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0763H3GMV/ref=pe_2361882_282382012_TE_item   Speaking of Power Banks, Purchased a Petrol Generator   Never thought I’d own a petrol generator, but the hassle with the recent black outs on the Central Coast of NSW, I now have an easy to use and fairly cheap Petrol generator. 2 power points, 12v connection, 10AMPS, will charge phones, tablets and Macbooks, will also run fridge etc. Got this from Bunnings Warehouse, Ozito Inverter 2500W Generator $499.

CES 2020   CES 2020 seem to be mainly about Connected cars, Smart Home and the Internet Of Things, and AI.   https://twitter.com/CNET/status/1214796184381988865   Code Jumper to be demonstrated at this Weeks SPEV Conference in Adelaide   Besides being shown off at CES 2020, Tony Wu from Vision Australia will be demonstrating Code Jumper at the SPEVI conference for educators.   Code Jumper Website:   http://www.codejumper.com   Still waiting for a release date, it is hoped to be Feb or March.   Completed the MacBook Pro 16 Podcast   I did complete my MacBook Pro 16 podcast, and I still think this is the best MacBook Pro ever for quite a long time, just the keyboard and sound are amazing.   https://davidwoodbr.podbean.com/e/macbook-pro-16-review-by-david-woodbridge/   A Note About the Extended Trial  of the Vision Store and AT Helpdesk Operating Hours   For Jan 2020, both the Vision Store and the AT Helpdesk can be contacted by phone up to 9PM for the Store, and 8PM for the Helpdesk ESDT BD via 1300 847 466.  

Vision Australia has launched its 2020 audio description schedule for 2020. We chat with Audio Manager, Conrad Browne about some of the highlights including the upcoming Carols by Candlelight. Also on the program, Julie from the Vision Store with some great Christmas present ideas and we discuss the launching of a new website for disabled travelers.

To give you a bit of time to shop for Father's Day, Stephen and I invited Amanda Daizli  (Retail Coordinator from the Vision Australia Parramatta Vision Store) to come on to the program to chat about some Father's Day gift ideas from the Vision Store.   Large Silver Talking Watch https://shop.visionaustralia.org/shop/product/large-silver-talking-watch-stretch-band   Explore 8 electronic magnifier https://shop.visionaustralia.org/shop/product/explore-8-handheld-electronic-magnifier   Book Light https://shop.visionaustralia.org/shop/product/daylight-smart-clip-book-light   Clover 5 electronic magnifier https://shop.visionaustralia.org/shop/product/clover-5-video-magnifier-whandle   My own two picks from the Vision Store which I've already purchased smile are: Google Home https://shop.visionaustralia.org/shop/product/google-home Google Home:   Talking Builders Tape Measure https://shop.visionaustralia.org/shop/product/talking-builders-tape-measure   I also talk about my early Father's day present: the Ember Temperature controlled mug, keeps your coffee, tea ETC  hot up to an hour on its own charge or all day when back on the charging pad: https://ember.com Yes, I know it is not necessary, but drinking a whole cup of nicely brewed coffee hot from the top to the bottom of the mug I think is fantastic smile.   Whilst I am talking about Father's Day, here are some Apple gift ideas which you can also order from the Vision Australia Store: Apple Watch, AirPods, Apple TV, iPod touch, and an iPhone 8 or 8 plus. Ring 1300 847 466 to order.   Enjoy Father's Day from the Talking Tech Team.

Apple WWDC 2019 Videos and Transcripts Now Available   https://developer.apple.com/videos/wwdc2019/   Blind Alive Eyes Free Fitness is Still Available to Download Free Workouts etc   https://www.blindalive.com   A Twist on - What Technology is Most Likely to be Obsolete in Fifty Years   https://www.gizmodo.com.au/2019/07/what-technology-is-most-likely-to-become-obsolete-during-your-lifetime/   BrailleNote Touch Verses BrailleSense Polaris from AccessWorld   https://www.afb.org/aw/20/7/16711   Blind Bargains Podcast Interviews from NFB and ACB 2019 Quite a wide ranging number of podcasts from both the NFB and ACB conferences.   https://www.blindbargains.com/audio/   Two Recent Tech Friday Sessions Worth a Chat About: Daisy Players, and Sunu Band verses the Buzz Clip   In the Daisy workshop I went through the Victor Stratas, Victor Reader Stream, and the Envoy Connect and discussed the differences. Had a great discussion on the pros and cons of either using the Sunu Band or the Buzz Clip. Catch the podcasts from the Vision Store at vacast.podbean.com.

David Woodbridge of the Vision Store in Australia tells about how he's been testing and using the Samsung Galaxy S10, the Galaxy Watch and the Galaxy Buds side by side with his iPhones, Apple Watch and AirPods. It's a delightful discussion of the relative goodness of both platforms from an accessibility perspective. David is hilarious and we have a bit of fun wandering off topic from time to time. You can find David's many podcasts at: iSee Various Technologies from a Blind Person’s Perspective Vision Australia Radio weekly Talking Tech VACast David's video tech blog @dwoodbridge allison@podfeet.com podfeet.com/patreon podfeet.com/slack podfeet.com/facebook podfeet.com/amazon

David Woodbridge of the Vision Store in Australia tells about how he's been testing and using the Samsung Galaxy S10, the Galaxy Watch and the Galaxy Buds side by side with his iPhones, Apple Watch and AirPods. It's a delightful discussion of the relative goodness of both platforms from an accessibility perspective. David is hilarious and we have a bit of fun wandering off topic from time to time. You can find David's many podcasts at: iSee Various Technologies from a Blind Person’s Perspective Vision Australia Radio weekly Talking Tech VACast David's video tech blog @dwoodbridge allison@podfeet.com podfeet.com/patreon podfeet.com/slack podfeet.com/facebook podfeet.com/amazon

Show Summary: In this Tech Abilities podcast, I met up with Sprint Outreach Specialists Diane and Rob during the NCSAB conference. Sprint will provide Bills in Braille and large print, a discount on a plan and help BVI customers maximize the accessibility of their smart phone. It is nice to see Sprint at and sponsoring conventions such as NFB, ACB, AFB and more, and to have Outreach Specialist like Diane and Rob available to ask those accessibility questions right at their booth. Plus, Sprint brings the Vision Store to the events offering up Bluetooth speakers and headphones that are accessible and at a very nice price. Next time you are at a convention, stop by the Sprint booth and see what plans they can offer you. You can find out more about Sprint and accessibility on the web at www.Sprint.com/vision Contact Sprint by phone at 855-885-7568. About NCSAB: The National Council of State Agencies for the Blind (NCSAB)held their Spring conference in Washington D.C., This is a conference attended by Directors and Administrators from the State Agencies and Vocational Rehab Centers across the United States. The attendees share successes and discuss the challenges with leaders from the Rehabilitation Services Administration, Department of Education and the Consumer Organizations including the American Foundation of the Blind, American Council of the Blind and the National Foundation of the Blind. Be sure to check with your State Services for the Blind, your Voc. Rehabilitation Services and find out what they can do for you. Blind abilities NCSAB coverage is sponsored in part by Be My Eyes. Be My Eyes is a free app that connects blind and low-vision people with sighted volunteers and company representatives for visual assistance through a live video call. Download for iOS Download for Android Contact: Thank you for listening! You can follow us on Twitter @BlindAbilities On the web at www.BlindAbilities.com Send us an email Get the Free Blind Abilities App on the App Store.

A Couple Of Recent Podcasts From Me And A New Podcast Feed   A few weeks ago I did episode 8 in my Windows 10 Narrator Series which was on using Narrator on the web.   I have also a new podbean.com podcast for the Vision Australia Vision Store where I will be posting tech demos from the Store. For example, you'll see a demo on how easy it is to use Apple Pay to pay for items from the Vision Store.   http://VACast.podbean.com Or search for David Woodbridge in the iTunes Store and you'll find this one and my personal iSee podcast.   Vision Australia is now Selling the Galaxy Bar Code Reader   For folks that have been waiting, the wait is over, you can now order the Galaxy Mate from Vision Australia. Ring 1300 847 466 or email visionstore@visionaustralia.org   Last Week I Did a Talk On The Rivo 2 Keyboard on Accessible World Tech Talk     I still think the Rivo 2 keyboard is a great device and was glad to share the info with listeners.   http://accessibleworld.org   Ear Hockey Now Available In The Microsoft Store In Australia   The Microsoft Garage Project released a game late last year called Ear Hockey, and now you can download it from the Australian Microsoft Store on your Windows 10 PC and play it to your hearts content.   https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/garage/profiles/ear-hockey/   Folks Have Been Asking Me Lately About My bluetooth App Driven Coffee Machine   I'll explain how this works, but a few tips and warning about its functionality for VoiceOver or Talkback users.     HomePod And I Think the Apple Watch Siri Voice Has Now Been Improved     Next time if you use Siri on the HomePod or Apple Watch, you may notice that the Siri voice sounds a lot more yuan. Apple just updated it with no fuss or bother, which in itself is great to see these senseless updates plus we get a better sounding Siri voice.

In this weeks show.     Humanware Interview With Blake Ison   Catching up with Blake to see what is new from Humanware.   Some Not So Good News on the Orbit Reader 20   Due to Manufacturer issues, Vision Store can no longer provide the Orbit Reader 20 for sale, we currently have no stock, and are not even sure if we will get future units.   For the moment we are recommending the Brailliant 14 as a possible alternative.   Blind Bargains Audio Interviews from ATIA 2019   Quite a few of interesting product interviews to listen to.   Also remember that besides the website, you also have the app which can make getting to things a lot more easy.   http://www.blindbargains.com   FaceTime Group Calling Now Fixed   As I talked about a few weeks ago, this bug has been fixed with a recent iOS update, so be sure your device is up to date if you plan on using FaceTime Group calling.

Last weeks show focused on general tech gift ideas for Christmas.   This time around, Stephen and I will be going through some gift ideas from the Vision Australia Store itself.   To find any of the below products or any other products, you can visit a Vision Australia office, email visionstore@visionaustralia.org, give us a ring on 1300 847 466 or shop online at: https://shop.visionaustralia.org   Now for the Tech Gift Ideas   Orbit Reader 20 - low cost 20 cell refreshable Braille display and note taker.   Sunu Band - wearable ultra sound obstacle detection device.   Talking Induction Hob - only Induction Hob (hot plate) around that actually talks smile.   Talking Microwave - like the name says, a microwave that talks, really pleased that one of these is back on the market for the last year or so: I miss my original LG Talking Microwave from the late 90s.   Apple Pay   Whilst we're talking about the Vision Retail Store, I recently got around to setting up Apple Pay with my bank (ImB), and found out that pretty much most EFTPOS machines work with Apple Pay from my Apple Watch including Aldi, Taxi, and most Exciting Vision Australia Retail Store purchases smile.   So you can go in to a vision Australia office or one of our flagship Vision Australia offices in NSW, WLD or Vic with our Vision Store high Tech Hub and use Apple Pay on your iPhone or Apple Watch.   Merry Christmas to all from Stephen, David, and the VA Radio staff that make this at all possible.     We'll be back as usual next week, and we have some great Talking Tech Shows for you coming  up over the Christmas and new year period.

In this weeks show, Stephen and David catch up with Leon Pauls from OrCam Technologies to discuss the OrCam Eye Reader and OrCam Reader. Essentially, OrCam is a wearable device that simply attach's to the side of your glasses and can recognise print, bar codes, and speak back what it see's through the camera. Plus it can recognise up to 100 faces and tell you who is standing in front of the camera pretty much instantaneously. The OrCam Eye Reader has all the features plus Face Recognition with the cheaper OrCam Reader being mainly a print reading device. For more information on the OrCam (either the Eye Reader or Reader), phone Vision Australia on 1300 847 466 and ask for the Vision Store.

Vision Australia recently held an event to preview the new $50 note which includes the important accessibility feature of tactile markings. Amongst the guests was Australia’s federal treasurer and member for Kooyong the Hon. Josh Frydenberg and also Assistant Governor for the Reserve Bank of Australia Lindsay Boulton. Stephen Jolley got an opportunity to speak with both Josh and Lindsay about the new note and what these means for the blindness community. We also hear from members of Vision Australia’s Advocacy and Engagement Team about the upcoming Victorian state election and Vision Australia’s election priorities and call to action. Julie Scott from the Vision Store chats to us about Vision Australia’s calendar’s and diaries.

Vision Australia's Dandenong office recently held a gaming day and we speak with, Access Technology Specialist, Gavin Cahill, about the importance of sound engineering and overall accessibility in computer games for blind players. We speak with Vaughn Bennison who is the Chair of RPH Australia and station manager Print Radio Tasmania. Vaughn discusses his passion for radio and his desire to see more people who are blind or have low vision actively involved in radio. Julie Scott from the Vision Store joins us to talk products for personal care and Frances Keyland brings us a Reader Recommended.

In this weeks show, Stephen and David catch up with Michelle Eunson (Strategic Business Development Manager) Vision Australia about the Vision Store, and her recent trip to the CSUN Technology conference earlier this year and what this means to Vision Australia and the products sold through the store. The store can be accessed by: http://shop.visionaustralia.org  1300 847 466. David catch's us up on his experience with his new partners iMac and comments upon how easy it was to use the Migration Assistant to transfer content from the older iMac to the new system.

In this weeks Talking Tech, Stephen and David catch up with Tony Wu from the Vision Australia Vision Store to talk about IrisVision - the weirable magnification solution. For further info concerning IrisVision, contact the Vision Store at Vision Australia on 1300 847 466, check it out on the VA Store online shop at http://www.visionaustralia.org/shop or visit the iRisVision web site at http://www.irisvision.com