eBook – SeroTalk / A podcast and interactive blog on the accessible digital lifestyle, produced by Serotek, the Accessibility Anywhere people Wed, 18 Feb 2015 12:30:12 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.5.3 A podcast and interactive blog on the accessible digital lifestyle, produced by Serotek, the Accessibility Anywhere people SeroTalk no SeroTalk ricky.enger@serotek.com ricky.enger@serotek.com (SeroTalk) A podcast and interactive blog on the accessible digital lifestyle, produced by Serotek, the Accessibility Anywhere people SeroTalkeBook – SeroTalk /wp-content/plugins/powerpress/rss_default.jpg / Why killing net nutrality will hurt the disabled /2015/02/18/why-killing-net-nutrality-will-hurt-the-disabled/ /2015/02/18/why-killing-net-nutrality-will-hurt-the-disabled/#comments Wed, 18 Feb 2015 07:30:12 +0000 /?p=4740 Continue reading →]]> In a matter of days the FCC will determine our freedom on the internet.

I know that sounds really drastic but it is true. Why should we care though? Because, fact is, disabled people need the internet.

There are a lot of things that make me want to question all humanity, simply because it seems that common sense is becoming more and more a luxury than anything else today. Why? Today, I read an article that’s just promoting nothing more than false intentions.

I’m on twitter a lot and I read what my followers post a great deal. When I saw the article about the notion that Verizon was fighting against Net Neutrality to benefit the disabled populace, I didn’t have anything clever to say. I didn’t have a retort to utter. I didn’t even have a tweet to formulate in wake of this. Ladies and gents, there’s simply no other word to describe what they are claiming and the propositions that they claim, other than one. It’s a word that fits all, I believe, given this context and the huge array of just false debauchery that Verizon is trying to cook up.

LIES.

If you have not heard about the FCC and their latest plan to destroy the internet do a Google search for FCC and net neutrality. You will get some really interesting articles that basically outline what their new rules will entail.

It’s a proposal that would ban Internet providers from blocking or slowing down access to websites but may let them charge content companies for faster and more reliable delivery of their traffic to users.

It sounds good on paper and in a simple sentence like that. It’s not. I will briefly explain why.

Anything can be abused, including this new law. Internet service providers (ISPs), like Comcast or AT&T—believe that, as providers of internet access, they should be able to distribute bandwidth differently depending on the service.

They’d prefer, for example, to create tiers of internet service that’s more about paying for priority access than for bandwidth speeds. As such, in theory, they could charge high-bandwidth services—like Netflix, for example—extra money, since their service costs more for Comcast to provide to its customers—or they could charge users, like you and me, extra to access Netflix. They can also provide certain services to you at different speeds.

For example, perhaps your ISP might give preferential treatment to Hulu, so it streams Hulu videos quickly and for free, while Netflix is stuck running slowly (or we have to pay extra to access it). If you don’t think that won’t wrack up a huge bill, you are wrong.

How many people use cell phones and access Facebook, twitter, Netflix, ETC. This will affect everything that’s connected to the internet and they can all have a separate charge attached for that device to access websites and content.

This will also affect your tablets, game systems, ANYTHING that is hooked up to the internet. Knowing the USA, those fees can be taxed. enough said.

Imagine that Verizon or AT&T don’t like the idea of Google Voice, because it allows you to send text messages for free using your data connection. Your cellphone carrier could block access to Google Voice from your smartphone so you’re forced to pay for a texting plan from them. Or, they see that a lot of people are using Facebook on their smartphone, so even if they have the bandwidth to carry that traffic, they decide to charge you extra to access Facebook, just because they know it’s in high demand and that they can make a profit.

Obviously this will be great for people who have money spilling outa their pockets and who live in a financial bubble ignorant of the rest of us but I don’t think the FCC remembers that not everyone has money, If this rueling gets past it will ban some disabled people from using the internet. Let’s be real here.

Take SSI. How much is your internet bill per year now and how often do people on SSI rely on the internet and websites that host special content like Facebook, for social collaboration and school websites that often hold YouTube videos, which can have a steep price on it too on top of your internet bill if net neutrality is killed.

People on SSI or even SSDI won’t be able to pay all of that, given the fact that disabled people use the internet more than anything else for more than just socializing. People host teleconferences on Facebook, promote goods on blogs, the list goes on and I should not even have to point these out.

These ISP;s certainly won’t remember that not everyone has money because they want to have the money and they will want to have the money that they think they should have any way that they can get it, including charging people like you and I to use an email provider that isn’t with your default ISP like, for example, if you’re using Comcast and you look at your Gmail. Comcast could charge you to access Gmail even though Gmail is free.

The reason why blind people use Gmail is that it offers a lot of customization. For example, it offers free IMAP and POP3 access to mail clients. Yahoo does not.

This is why I say that Verizon is spewing illogical banter. There’s a stereotype about us Americans that say, frankly, we are greedy.

Verizon and Comcast really want to have this new rueling passed just so they can get more money and the fact that Verizon is using disabled people as a valuable excuse to justify why they want to kill Net Neutrality just so they can have more money really makes me, well, disappointed at my own country.

Hears the claim Verizon makes. Without a fast lane, disabled Americans could get stuck with subpar service as Internet traffic increases.

The issue that’s a constant problem isn’t even about the speed of access but, rather, the simple act of accessing something. I don’t understand how this will help us access something such as a website that isn’t designed to be accessible or obtaining some key information that’s in an accessible element on the inaccessible or partially accessible website. Since the internet often has inaccessible websites, even today, we would just turn to the phone, or, in my case, text one of my minions to look something up for me, adding a winking smiley at the end just because. The issue of speed doesn’t even culminate into a logical fit within this particular claim, if people really knew about screen readers and magnifiers and such. Instead of slower speeds dolling out a subpar service it’s the incomplete and botched content that we cannot access because developers didn’t make whatever accessible.

If there were, indeed, a way for ISPs to create two lanes of internet access, one slow, with costs to use all these demanding sites like Netflix and such, and one fast, combined with services like Facebook, it would ban a lot of disabled people from accessing some very key information all together all because of costs that would be designated by the ISP and then that would be yet another contender blind and visually impaired activists would have to constantly advocate for.

State rehabilitation will not pay for internet as is, and that’s just one monthly cost to access all websites and services. If this were to actually be enforced people with disabilities wouldn’t have access to certain sites at all because of the high costs that will, without a doubt, be determined by the ISP.

This could lead to loss of employment, fewer educational opportunities because this will affect schools too, and overall fewer productivity and would make the unemployment rate for disabled people increase because a lot of disabled people work from home, using many sites and services every day that wouldn’t be able to be accessed because, oh no! The bill is really high!

Speed is not the issue and it infuriates me that Verizon even uses that as a claim. If people know about screen readers, magnifiers, and accessibility issues with software and sites then they will see right through this fallacy. If they don’t know about disabled people and access technology it would be a simple conclusion that would make sense in their minds even though its hugely false, that speed would help us.

Access is an issue but the irony is access would be an even bigger issue, coupled with taxes and stuff, I’m sure, will be added onto these extra speed costs and costs to access content, thereby bridging the disabled homeless and otherwise on an even wider separation all because of money. Access won’t be an issue, it will morph into a barrier, one that will always be up.

This is just for work. Could you only imagine how disabled people wouldn’t have access to sites like twitter, where news is happening all day, every day? Oh my god!I don’t even want to entertain that nightmare.

I just cannot believe that Verizon would even say such a disingenuous thing. It won’t help disabled people at all. It would ban some from even using the internet, even some who are not disabled. I don’t think people who work at these companies know that not everyone works at Verizon or otherwise, but hey, in America, it’s all about the money. It’s all about the money.

]]> /2015/02/18/why-killing-net-nutrality-will-hurt-the-disabled/feed/ 4 A month off the grid. Living blindly without Internet /2015/02/13/a-month-off-the-grid-living-blindly-without-internet/ /2015/02/13/a-month-off-the-grid-living-blindly-without-internet/#comments Fri, 13 Feb 2015 13:08:51 +0000 /?p=4724 Continue reading →]]> Usually, once in our lives, if not more than once, there’s a sentence that flutters out of our mouths without a hesitation. People have uttered this sentence in all cases of need, where they wanted something really badly but they felt as if that new book would enhance their lives or that video game would make the winter bearable or this movie would help with bringing the family together. So people say it, feeling like they really mean what they say,

It’s the sentence, “I need that.”

A dictionary has many definitions for the word need. Until October, when I decided to take up a challenge by a friend to not use any Internet for a whole month, I didn’t really understand what I needed or even why I needed it.

In September 2014, the sun speckled the ground with bursts of bright light even though the weather was cold in Chicago. I was sitting in a park with an engineer friend of mine, stealing his fries as we talked about the internship that I applied for but didn’t make. The topic nestled into the internship miss until, suddenly, he blurted out an exclamation of “oh my god, Robbie, you have GOT to read this!”

And so I did, or rather, listened, having limited vision and everything. It was an article that said that killing net neutrality would help the disabled. Verizon was saying that, if the Internet were split into a fast lane and a slow lane, disabled people would have much better Internet. Naturally, the irony wasn’t lost on me. In most cases, no matter how politically correct people wanted me to be ever since I started saying it, a good portion of the disabled populace were very poor, so the idea Verizon had was just utter nonsense.

“That’s a complete fallacy!” I spluttered, shifting my weight so my good eye could stare at Marcus full on in the face. “That’s just plain wrong!”

“I know,” he agreed, but we ranted and raved for a bit, just to make sure our thoughts were out in the open. Suddenly, though, as I was stealing a fry, he commented, “I have an idea. Why don’t I give you a challenge, you know, like a dare?” I liked the prospect of a dare so I accepted his challenge before having the intellect to ask what it was.

“Why don’t you, as a disabled person, live without the Internet for one month, and this means using Internet in schools and in libraries and the like, don’t use the Internet at all for one month.”

And that’s how it began.

Now, my memoir details my journey of living offline. Through my words and reflections, readers will know what adapting to a new kind of world is like. I was soon swept up in a different world, a world that was inaccessible to me and a world that I had to learn how adapt to, on my own since I live in an apartment complex by myself. I really did learn the difference between needing something and wanting the convenience of something.

I assumed I was going to do the everyday things that people did, such as walk outside, even though it was starting to get cold in Chicago. I thought my entries were going to be filled with sentences outlining what I did, rather than what I’d think about and declarations and observations of people. I thought that I’d write more about what I did and why I did it, rather than my observations about the Internet-less life and how it changing everything from communication to education to human interaction.

In the memoir, many aspects of life are examined. Why? Because I had a lot more free time to share with myself. The memoir is a diary that’s intimate and allows for a glimpse into the human psyche before being connected to everyone.

Living offline changed me in many ways that I didn’t even see coming. For the first few days, I needed to get online, I wanted to look up something. I wanted to type in the commands and the search strings that would get me exactly what I wanted, how I wanted it, where I wanted it. Without that power, for a few days, I was utterly lost because I didn’t know how to cope after that power had been taken away.

Even though I felt as though I was going to back down on the first few days, I gave it a shot still, and kept on with the challenge.

The fact is, the Internet is a requirement, especially for the disabled. I experienced much frustration simply because I could no longer do something so basic, such as hooking up a landline phone because I couldn’t download the manual from the website. I had to rely on the sighted population more than I have ever needed to.

This is because there isn’t as much accessible information offline as there is on the Internet. On the Internet I can look up any news I want to look up or any manual, for that matter. Take news content: Writers are not filtered by space and advertising columns so they can pepper the Web page with in-depth reporting and I could read it all.

Mainstream offline media doesn’t tell you about all the news that’s happening or the kind of topics people want to know. The fact is, people want to know. On the radio and TV everything is delegated by space and time. When you have limited options to get information, information becomes a need, not a luxury. I had to cope with losing that by asking more questions from other people and relying on their answers. Sometimes, it was effective. Other times, it left me feeling as if I was being denied information simply because I didn’t use the Internet.

We live, however, in a world that needs the Internet. I learned that the hard way when I didn’t get hired for a job because I couldn’t use the Internet. It really has shocked me how it’s turned into an unclassified utility. Sure, apartment owners are saying it is a utility but not the government, not the people higher up. It should be. Why? Because I know what it’s like, as a disabled person, to live without the Internet for one month. A disabled life without Internet is not a completely independent world. The Internet breaks down barriers, even if we can’t see them.

]]> /2015/02/13/a-month-off-the-grid-living-blindly-without-internet/feed/ 4 SeroTalk Podcast 212: Throw Darts At a Bug /2014/09/24/serotalk-podcast-212-throw-darts-at-a-bug/ /2014/09/24/serotalk-podcast-212-throw-darts-at-a-bug/#comments Wed, 24 Sep 2014 11:16:24 +0000 /?p=4565 Continue reading →]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 212: Throw Darts At a Bug

Join Jamie, Ricky and Joe for this week’s edition of the podcast where they sip Apple juice and talk about all things iOS 8. If you’re tired of hearing about Apple, never fear; there are other stories in this week’s show as well. After the news, Buddy Brannan visits with Jim Gashel about the new release of the KNFB Reader app for iOS. Stories covered in this week’s podcast include:

National Federation of the Blind Applauds Release of KNFB Reader iPhone App

iOS 8 Adoption Lags Behind Past Upgrades — So Far

What’s New in iOS 8 Accessibility for Blind, Low-Vision, and Deaf-Blind Users

The Accessibility Bugs in iOS 8: From Serious To Minor

Apple Confirms HealthKit Bug, Promises Fix by End of September

BlindSquare: Acapela Voices Temporarily Not Available in iOS 8

Braille Moves Forward in iOS 8

Apple TV updated w/ Beats Music channel, refreshed design, Family Sharing, & iCloud Photos

new Victor Reader 2 Update now live

New audio channel makes fashion accessible for people with disabilities

Fred Gissoni

Code Factory becomes global! Check our new website

New TalkBack for Android released. Check the release notes to see what’s new

New Kindle Voyager docking soon

New Amazon Fire Kids Edition

The 3MT Reader Android app is a simple, intuitive way for blind users to read epub and txt books

Microsoft confirms Windows 9 event for September 30, Technical Preview to follow soon after

The new Ken Burns PBS series, The Roosevelts available on the Web with Audio description

Roundabout

Intel Unveils Connected Wheelchair

The 12-y.o. Hero Behind the Lego-Braille Printer: A Not Impossible Original

Here is a link to SeroTalk Podcast 188 featuring Buddy Brannan’s interview with Shubham Banerjee

The Tough MudderExperience

]]> /2014/09/24/serotalk-podcast-212-throw-darts-at-a-bug/feed/ 2 Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 212: Throw Darts At a Bug Join Jamie, Ricky and Joe for this week's edition of the podcast where they sip Apple juice and talk about all things iOS 8. If you're tired of hearing about Apple, Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 212: Throw Darts At a Bug Join Jamie, Ricky and Joe for this week's edition of the podcast where they sip Apple juice and talk about all things iOS 8. If you're tired of hearing about Apple, never fear; there are other stories in this week's show as well. After the news, Buddy Brannan visits with Jim Gashel about the new release of the KNFB Reader app for iOS. Stories covered in this week's podcast include: National Federation of the Blind Applauds Release of KNFB Reader iPhone App iOS 8 Adoption Lags Behind Past Upgrades — So Far What’s New in iOS 8 Accessibility for Blind, Low-Vision, and Deaf-Blind Users The Accessibility Bugs in iOS 8: From Serious To Minor Apple Confirms HealthKit Bug, Promises Fix by End of September BlindSquare: Acapela Voices Temporarily Not Available in iOS 8 Braille Moves Forward in iOS 8 Apple TV updated w/ Beats Music channel, refreshed design, Family Sharing, & iCloud Photos new Victor Reader 2 Update now live New audio channel makes fashion accessible for people with disabilities Fred Gissoni Code Factory becomes global! Check our new website New TalkBack for Android released. Check the release notes to see what's new New Kindle Voyager docking soon New Amazon Fire Kids Edition The 3MT Reader Android app is a simple, intuitive way for blind users to read epub and txt books Microsoft confirms Windows 9 event for September 30, Technical Preview to follow soon after The new Ken Burns PBS series, The Roosevelts available on the Web with Audio description Roundabout Intel Unveils Connected Wheelchair The 12-y.o. Hero Behind the Lego-Braille Printer: A Not Impossible Original Here is a link to SeroTalk Podcast 188 featuring Buddy Brannan's interview with Shubham Banerjee The Tough MudderExperience SeroTalk no 1:41:17 SeroTalk Podcast 205: All Your Stuff Are Belong to Us /2014/07/17/serotalk-podcast-205-all-your-stuff-are-belong-to-us/ Thu, 17 Jul 2014 14:06:10 +0000 /?p=4337 Continue reading →]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 205: All Your Stuff Are Belong to Us

While Jamie and Mailbag were both busy in Vegas, Joe Steinkamp, Ricky Enger and Lisa Salinger were back at home recording another podcast. After the news, Lisa demonstrates some of the new features found in the latest update of iBlink Radio.

Stories covered in this week’s podcast include:

iBlink Radio updates live, Amazon Fire support added

SPN Special: Eight Interviews From NFB 2014

NFB 2014 Interview Special 2

NFB 2014 Interview Special 3

HIMS Part 1

HIMS Part 2

New Access World for July 13, 2014

DAISY Consortium is looking for a new CEO

A grant and new hire means A more certain future for free screen reader NVDA

Job Access With Bugs?

Easter Seals Crossroads on full page Braille tablet and more

Zoomtext for Mac Free v1.1.3 Update released. Adds smooth panning and tracking changes

APH releases Visual Brailer app

Access Note has gone free

Career Connect for iOS released

Happy Anniversary to Seeing Eye GPS app! To celebrate we have a new release. By popular request, users now have the option of Google maps.

Ios 7.1.2 changes

KNFB Reader for iOS at end of August, $99 and audioboo demo

Comments on Resolution 12 from President Rickabono

NFB says Apple has done more for access than others

Apple urged to increase accessibility for the blind and deaf

The power and promise of accessibility

Apple does more for accessibility, Android users frustrated

Accessibility in Google Apps – an overview

Roundabout

The potato salad Kickstarter is “the Woodstock of our generation”

This is the sound of electric cars racing

D&D 5th Edition Basic Rules Free Download

Our thanks go out to Andre Louis and Patrick Purdue of PD Audio Productions for the theme music heard on this podcast.

]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 205: All Your Stuff Are Belong to Us While Jamie and Mailbag were both busy in Vegas, Joe Steinkamp, Ricky Enger and Lisa Salinger were back at home recording another podcast. After the news, Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 205: All Your Stuff Are Belong to Us While Jamie and Mailbag were both busy in Vegas, Joe Steinkamp, Ricky Enger and Lisa Salinger were back at home recording another podcast. After the news, Lisa demonstrates some of the new features found in the latest update of iBlink Radio. Stories covered in this week's podcast include: iBlink Radio updates live, Amazon Fire support added SPN Special: Eight Interviews From NFB 2014 NFB 2014 Interview Special 2 NFB 2014 Interview Special 3 HIMS Part 1 HIMS Part 2 New Access World for July 13, 2014 DAISY Consortium is looking for a new CEO A grant and new hire means A more certain future for free screen reader NVDA Job Access With Bugs? Easter Seals Crossroads on full page Braille tablet and more Zoomtext for Mac Free v1.1.3 Update released. Adds smooth panning and tracking changes APH releases Visual Brailer app Access Note has gone free Career Connect for iOS released Happy Anniversary to Seeing Eye GPS app! To celebrate we have a new release. By popular request, users now have the option of Google maps. Ios 7.1.2 changes KNFB Reader for iOS at end of August, $99 and audioboo demo Comments on Resolution 12 from President Rickabono NFB says Apple has done more for access than others Apple urged to increase accessibility for the blind and deaf The power and promise of accessibility Apple does more for accessibility, Android users frustrated Accessibility in Google Apps – an overview Roundabout The potato salad Kickstarter is "the Woodstock of our generation" This is the sound of electric cars racing D&D 5th Edition Basic Rules Free Download Our thanks go out to Andre Louis and Patrick Purdue of PD Audio Productions for the theme music heard on this podcast. SeroTalk no 1:45:36 NFB 2014 HIMS Special 2: A Discussion of the Blaze EZ and Updates to BrailleSense Firmware /2014/07/10/nfb-2014-hims-special-2-a-discussion-of-the-blaze-ez-and-updates-to-braillesense-firmware/ Thu, 10 Jul 2014 17:33:19 +0000 /?p=4325 Continue reading →]]> Listen to NFB 2014 HIMS Special 2: A Discussion of the Blaze EZ and Updates to BrailleSense Firmware

Welcome to our second NFB 2014 HIMS special. This time around, you get two presentations in one as Dave and Andy demonstrate the Blaze EZ, HIMS’ new book reader with OCR and more. Then, they discuss the latest updates to the BrailleSense firmware that powers HIMS notetakers. There’s a lot to learn, so let’s get started.

We would like to thank HIMS Inc. for being one of the sponsors for this year’s NFB convention coverage.

]]> Listen to NFB 2014 HIMS Special 2: A Discussion of the Blaze EZ and Updates to BrailleSense Firmware Welcome to our second NFB 2014 HIMS special. This time around, you get two presentations in one as Dave and Andy demonstrate the Blaze EZ, Listen to NFB 2014 HIMS Special 2: A Discussion of the Blaze EZ and Updates to BrailleSense Firmware Welcome to our second NFB 2014 HIMS special. This time around, you get two presentations in one as Dave and Andy demonstrate the Blaze EZ, HIMS' new book reader with OCR and more. Then, they discuss the latest updates to the BrailleSense firmware that powers HIMS notetakers. There's a lot to learn, so let's get started. We would like to thank HIMS Inc. for being one of the sponsors for this year's NFB convention coverage. SeroTalk no 1:56:11 SPN Special: Eight Interviews From NFB 2014 /2014/07/03/spn-special-eight-interviews-from-nfb-2014/ Thu, 03 Jul 2014 12:53:10 +0000 /?p=4255 Continue reading →]]> Listen to our SPN Special: Eight Interviews from NFB 2014

Welcome to our first SPN special from NFB 2014 in Orlando, Florida. Ricky Enger and Joe Steinkamp have been hard at work talking with many of this year’s convention exhibitors, so sit back and enjoy the following interviews from the 74th annual convention of the National Federation of the Blind.

We would like to thank HIMS Inc. and Elegant Insights Braille Creations for sponsoring this year’s NFB convention coverage.

Matthew of Humanware talks with Ricky Enger about some exciting updates coming to the second generation Victor Reader Stream.

Joe Steinkamp visits with John Wilson of 3D Photoworks about 3D objects in real time and space.

Ricky Enger learns about Echo-Sense, a mobility aid for the visually impaired.

Joe Steinkamp explores portable low-vision solutions from Abisee.

Ricky Enger speaks with Tony of Enabling Technologies about their latest Braille embossers.

Joe Steinkamp talks with Odin Mobile about the latest news about their mobile phone solutions.

Heather of VitalSource Technologies talks with Ricky Enger about their accessible electronic textbooks.

Ricky Enger brings us some exciting news about the soon-to-be released KNFB Reader.

]]> Listen to our SPN Special: Eight Interviews from NFB 2014 Welcome to our first SPN special from NFB 2014 in Orlando, Florida. Ricky Enger and Joe Steinkamp have been hard at work talking with many of this year's convention exhibitors, Listen to our SPN Special: Eight Interviews from NFB 2014 Welcome to our first SPN special from NFB 2014 in Orlando, Florida. Ricky Enger and Joe Steinkamp have been hard at work talking with many of this year's convention exhibitors, so sit back and enjoy the following interviews from the 74th annual convention of the National Federation of the Blind. We would like to thank HIMS Inc. and Elegant Insights Braille Creations for sponsoring this year's NFB convention coverage. Matthew of Humanware talks with Ricky Enger about some exciting updates coming to the second generation Victor Reader Stream. Joe Steinkamp visits with John Wilson of 3D Photoworks about 3D objects in real time and space. Ricky Enger learns about Echo-Sense, a mobility aid for the visually impaired. Joe Steinkamp explores portable low-vision solutions from Abisee. Ricky Enger speaks with Tony of Enabling Technologies about their latest Braille embossers. Joe Steinkamp talks with Odin Mobile about the latest news about their mobile phone solutions. Heather of VitalSource Technologies talks with Ricky Enger about their accessible electronic textbooks. Ricky Enger brings us some exciting news about the soon-to-be released KNFB Reader. SeroTalk no 46:20 SeroTalk Podcast 203: There Is a Storm Coming /2014/06/20/serotalk-podcast-203-there-is-a-storm-coming/ /2014/06/20/serotalk-podcast-203-there-is-a-storm-coming/#comments Fri, 20 Jun 2014 09:33:45 +0000 /?p=4217 Continue reading →]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 203: There Is a Storm Coming

Welcome to this week’s episode of the SeroTalk Podcast. The news of the week, your feedback, a book recommendation and an interview with author Shelly Brisbin about her new book IOS Access for All: Your Comprehensive Guide to Accessibility for iPad, iPhone, and iPod Touch are just some of the things you will hear on this week’s show. Topics covered in this podcast include:

A T Talk

Braille Sense v8.2 Released with Features YOU Asked For!

Book Trade Announcements – Dolly Parton Presents Braille Book To Blind Child

GrabPak introduces line of Braille First Aid Kits

eBay and The National Federation of the Blind Team to Optimize Accessibility of Site, Apps

When Just Listening Is Not Enough: Google Falls Short on Accessibility for the Blind

What Will It Take for Google to Find Its Voice

Comparing the Windows Computer with the Mac

As Technology Marches Forward, Who Gets Left Behind?

Verizon Says It Wants to Kill Net Neutrality to Help Blind, Deaf, and Disabled People

Mainstream Matters

Report corroborates Apple planning to announce new wearable product in October

Apple’s new Lightning spec allows for smarter, better-sounding headphones

Rumor: NFC, wireless charging, improved LTE slated for iPhone 6

Starbucks to Start Offering Wireless Charging in San Francisco

Amazon Prime Subscriber? You Just Got Free Streaming Music

Roundabout

The Top 24 Summer Books of 2014

Vessyl smart cup can tell Coke from Pepsi

Xbox Live’s Major Nelson » E3 2014 Binaural Audio Experiment :

Ricky recommends Room: A Novel Written by Emma Donoghue

Our thanks go out to Andre Louis and Patrick Purdue of PD Audio Productions for the theme music heard on this podcast.

]]> /2014/06/20/serotalk-podcast-203-there-is-a-storm-coming/feed/ 1 Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 203: There Is a Storm Coming Welcome to this week's episode of the SeroTalk Podcast. The news of the week, your feedback, a book recommendation and an interview with author Shelly Brisbin about her new book IOS Access for Al... Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 203: There Is a Storm Coming Welcome to this week's episode of the SeroTalk Podcast. The news of the week, your feedback, a book recommendation and an interview with author Shelly Brisbin about her new book IOS Access for All: Your Comprehensive Guide to Accessibility for iPad, iPhone, and iPod Touch are just some of the things you will hear on this week's show. Topics covered in this podcast include: A T Talk Braille Sense v8.2 Released with Features YOU Asked For! Book Trade Announcements - Dolly Parton Presents Braille Book To Blind Child GrabPak introduces line of Braille First Aid Kits eBay and The National Federation of the Blind Team to Optimize Accessibility of Site, Apps When Just Listening Is Not Enough: Google Falls Short on Accessibility for the Blind What Will It Take for Google to Find Its Voice Comparing the Windows Computer with the Mac As Technology Marches Forward, Who Gets Left Behind? Verizon Says It Wants to Kill Net Neutrality to Help Blind, Deaf, and Disabled People Mainstream Matters Report corroborates Apple planning to announce new wearable product in October Apple's new Lightning spec allows for smarter, better-sounding headphones Rumor: NFC, wireless charging, improved LTE slated for iPhone 6 Starbucks to Start Offering Wireless Charging in San Francisco Amazon Prime Subscriber? You Just Got Free Streaming Music Roundabout The Top 24 Summer Books of 2014 Vessyl smart cup can tell Coke from Pepsi Xbox Live's Major Nelson » E3 2014 Binaural Audio Experiment : Ricky recommends Room: A Novel Written by Emma Donoghue Our thanks go out to Andre Louis and Patrick Purdue of PD Audio Productions for the theme music heard on this podcast. SeroTalk no 1:25:08 SeroSpectives: This Month in Tech for May 2014 /2014/06/06/serospectives-this-month-in-tech-for-may-2014/ Fri, 06 Jun 2014 16:29:25 +0000 /?p=4190 Continue reading →]]> Listen to SeroSpectives: This Month in Tech for May, 2014

Replay the Accessible Event archive of This Month in Tech for May

Jeff Bishop is an IT Accessibility Analyst at the University of Arizona. He describes himself as a “Developer, technologist, Window-Eyes scripter, Broadcaster and family oriented guy” and is probably best known for his broadcasts on various community radio stations.

Janet Ingber has been writing for AccessWorld since 2005, and cohosts two podcasts on How to be Blind. Her new book, “Learn to use the Mac With VoiceOver” is now available from National Braille Press. Janet has a Masters Degree in Music Therapy and provides services for adults who have developmental disabilities. Additionally, she is certified as a special education teacher. Janet lives in New York City with her husband, daughter and guide dog, Jack.

Byron Lee is a Ham Radio Operator (KC9EEK), Broadcast Personality, Audio Engineer, Voice Over Artist, Web Designer, IT Professional, and most importantly, a huge geek! He is currently employed by Horizons for the Blind, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for people who are blind or visually impaired, and is currently working on the DirectionsForMe project, a one stop source for accessible packaging information. In addition, Byron hosts two Internet radio shows. The Talk Zone is a two hour program about adaptive technology, disability rights, science fiction, pop-culture, and just about any other topic. The Fun Zone is a one hour program featuring comedy music. His shows are simulcast on ACB Radio Mainstream, and several other online radio stations. Byron has also been involved in other radio shows and podcasts, and is a frequent contributor on the SeroTalk Podcast Network. Find out more about Byron on his website or take a look at his newest project, the Low Vision Rants Website.

In the Community

HIMS Inc. Releases New Pocket-sized Media Player that Gives Blind and Visually Impaired Near-Instant Access to Printed Text

The Penguin Random House/Bookshare Partnership

BlindSquare celebrates two years; releases Version 2.0.

General Tech

Amazon, Twitter link up for easy shopping through #AmazonCart

Text-to-911 is here, but it isn’t everything you might think

Windows Phone 8.1 Launching June 24

WWDC

Information on iOS 8 now added to the Apple website

Information on OS X Yosemite now added to the Apple website

Apple publishes Swift programing language guide on iBooks

32 Hidden Features in Apple iOS 8

]]> Listen to SeroSpectives: This Month in Tech for May, 2014 Replay the Accessible Event archive of This Month in Tech for May Jeff Bishop is an IT Accessibility Analyst at the University of Arizona. He describes himself as a “Developer, technologist, Listen to SeroSpectives: This Month in Tech for May, 2014 Replay the Accessible Event archive of This Month in Tech for May Jeff Bishop is an IT Accessibility Analyst at the University of Arizona. He describes himself as a “Developer, technologist, Window-Eyes scripter, Broadcaster and family oriented guy” and is probably best known for his broadcasts on various community radio stations. Janet Ingber has been writing for AccessWorld since 2005, and cohosts two podcasts on How to be Blind. Her new book, “Learn to use the Mac With VoiceOver” is now available from National Braille Press. Janet has a Masters Degree in Music Therapy and provides services for adults who have developmental disabilities. Additionally, she is certified as a special education teacher. Janet lives in New York City with her husband, daughter and guide dog, Jack. Byron Lee is a Ham Radio Operator (KC9EEK), Broadcast Personality, Audio Engineer, Voice Over Artist, Web Designer, IT Professional, and most importantly, a huge geek! He is currently employed by Horizons for the Blind, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for people who are blind or visually impaired, and is currently working on the DirectionsForMe project, a one stop source for accessible packaging information. In addition, Byron hosts two Internet radio shows. The Talk Zone is a two hour program about adaptive technology, disability rights, science fiction, pop-culture, and just about any other topic. The Fun Zone is a one hour program featuring comedy music. His shows are simulcast on ACB Radio Mainstream, and several other online radio stations. Byron has also been involved in other radio shows and podcasts, and is a frequent contributor on the SeroTalk Podcast Network. Find out more about Byron on his website or take a look at his newest project, the Low Vision Rants Website. In the Community HIMS Inc. Releases New Pocket-sized Media Player that Gives Blind and Visually Impaired Near-Instant Access to Printed Text The Penguin Random House/Bookshare Partnership BlindSquare celebrates two years; releases Version 2.0. General Tech Amazon, Twitter link up for easy shopping through #AmazonCart Text-to-911 is here, but it isn't everything you might think Windows Phone 8.1 Launching June 24 WWDC Information on iOS 8 now added to the Apple website Information on OS X Yosemite now added to the Apple website Apple publishes Swift programing language guide on iBooks 32 Hidden Features in Apple iOS 8 SeroTalk no 1:10:36 SeroSpectives: This Year in Tech for 2013 /2014/01/09/serospectives-this-year-in-tech-for-2013/ Thu, 09 Jan 2014 15:29:32 +0000 /?p=3629 Continue reading →]]> Listen to SeroSpectives: This Year in Tech for 2013

About Our Presenters

Erin Edgar is a lawyer currently working for Legal Aid, which is a non-profit lawfirm that assists low-income clients with various issues. She and her husband, Rodney, co-host a podcast called Tech Access Weekly which focuses on news and events  in assistive and mainstream technology. She also co-hosts the Book Hoarders Annonymous Podcast, which is dedicated to book lovers of all persuasions. Follow her on Twitter, or reach her via email.

Jason Meddaugh is a cofounder of BlindBargains.com, one of the most popular deals and news websites for the blind and visually impaired. He also manages A T Guys, a website featuring low-cost tech gadgets and accessories. He is also a cohost on That Android Show. Follow him on Twitter.

Jamie Pauls, [Producer and host of the SeroTalk Podcast, plays keyboard professionally, and has shared the stage several times with current X Factor winner Tate Stevens. He is a music therapist who has worked with both the elderly and children, and teaches a music Appreciation class one evening a week at a community college. In the current setting, he is best known for his work as Content Director for Serotek. You can follow him on Twitter.

Joe Steinkamp is cohost of the SeroTalk Podcast as well as several other SPN podcasts. You can follow him on Twitter, and can read his personal Top Ten list on his blog.

Top Stories — 6-10

Story 10: X+Y = Math Access

SeroTalk Podcast, including an interview on the T84 Calculator

Story 9: A Tasty Google Treat

That Android Show

Story 8: Real Potential in Access to Set Top Boxes

Comcast Website

Stories 7 and 6: A Tie! Between two A T Giants

Victor Reader Stream: Second Generation

Sendero GPS

This Year at Serotek

Introducing Our New, Redesigned Website

Serotek Ambassadors’ Club is Launched

Serotek Podcast Network Reaches Highest Listener Count Yet

Serotek Launches the Newly Updated Socializer

The Top Five Stories

Story 5: You Down with UEB?

Unified English Braille to become official code in 2016

Story 4: Love Em or Hate em, Apple Gets People Talking

Apple iOS 7 Page

Triple Click Home

Story 3: The Tap Tap See Controversy

Tap Tap See Review

Triple Click Home Interview

Story 2: The Holy Grail of iPhone Apps

Story 1: Amazon Helps and Fights A T in the Same Breath

Kindle Fire HDX Product Page

Kindle Fire HDX: Usable By the Blind At Last?

]]> Listen to SeroSpectives: This Year in Tech for 2013 About Our Presenters Erin Edgar is a lawyer currently working for Legal Aid, which is a non-profit lawfirm that assists low-income clients with various issues. She and her husband, Rodney, Listen to SeroSpectives: This Year in Tech for 2013 About Our Presenters Erin Edgar is a lawyer currently working for Legal Aid, which is a non-profit lawfirm that assists low-income clients with various issues. She and her husband, Rodney, co-host a podcast called Tech Access Weekly which focuses on news and events  in assistive and mainstream technology. She also co-hosts the Book Hoarders Annonymous Podcast, which is dedicated to book lovers of all persuasions. Follow her on Twitter, or reach her via email. Jason Meddaugh is a cofounder of BlindBargains.com, one of the most popular deals and news websites for the blind and visually impaired. He also manages A T Guys, a website featuring low-cost tech gadgets and accessories. He is also a cohost on That Android Show. Follow him on Twitter. Jamie Pauls, [Producer and host of the SeroTalk Podcast, plays keyboard professionally, and has shared the stage several times with current X Factor winner Tate Stevens. He is a music therapist who has worked with both the elderly and children, and teaches a music Appreciation class one evening a week at a community college. In the current setting, he is best known for his work as Content Director for Serotek. You can follow him on Twitter. Joe Steinkamp is cohost of the SeroTalk Podcast as well as several other SPN podcasts. You can follow him on Twitter, and can read his personal Top Ten list on his blog. Top Stories -- 6-10 Story 10: X+Y = Math Access SeroTalk Podcast, including an interview on the T84 Calculator Story 9: A Tasty Google Treat That Android Show Story 8: Real Potential in Access to Set Top Boxes Comcast Website Stories 7 and 6: A Tie! Between two A T Giants Victor Reader Stream: Second Generation Sendero GPS This Year at Serotek Introducing Our New, Redesigned Website Serotek Ambassadors' Club is Launched Serotek Podcast Network Reaches Highest Listener Count Yet Serotek Launches the Newly Updated Socializer The Top Five Stories Story 5: You Down with UEB? Unified English Braille to become official code in 2016 Story 4: Love Em or Hate em, Apple Gets People Talking Apple iOS 7 Page Triple Click Home Story 3: The Tap Tap See Controversy Tap Tap See Review Triple Click Home Interview Story 2: The Holy Grail of iPhone Apps Story 1: Amazon Helps and Fights A T in the Same Breath Kindle Fire HDX Product Page Kindle Fire HDX: Usable By the Blind At Last? SeroTalk no 2:00:23 SeroTalk Podcast 172: The Sarah Tech /2013/10/09/serotalk-podcast-172-the-sarah-tech/ Wed, 09 Oct 2013 09:23:56 +0000 /?p=3338 Continue reading →]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 172: The Sarah Tech

In this podcast, Serotek’s own Matt Campbell drops by for his regular visit to the show. Did you know there was a pattern to his appearances? You’ll have to listen to the podcast to see what it is. In addition to referencing several stories, Jamie, Ricky and matt mention quite a number of books and authors. There are too many to mention here, so you’ll want to take notes as you listen. After the news, Lisa Salinger tells us about The Serotek Ambassadors’ Club and how you can become a member. Stories discussed in this podcast include:

NLS BARD Site Back Online Despite Government Shutdown

Is Congress catastrophically broken, or is it doing exactly what it was designed to do?

Zoom H6 Recorder Review

The New iPhone 5c and Walk-Through of the Initial Setup Process for VoiceOver Users

The Journey Toward Braille: Potential and Limitations of using Braille with iDevices

Dr. Abraham Nemeth, inventor of the Braille math code, dies at 94

The technological terrors of Tom Clancy

Valve Steam Machines, Steam Controller, and SteamOS: Visionary or Vapor?

Valve details specs for Linux-based Steam Machine prototype gaming PCs

Goodbye Microsoft Security Essentials: Microsoft Now Recommends You Use a Third-Party Antivirus

Why the blue screen of death no longer plagues Windows users

Facebook makes statuses editable… but is this open to abuse?

Facebook Pushes Passwords One Step Closer to Death

iOS 7 nausea and cybersickness: What causes it, and why it’s a sign of things to come

Mailbag

From Mike Arrigo

Thought you might be interested in this. It’s an interview with Susan Bennett who is definitely the voice of Samantha. I actually emailed her from her site, told her who I was and mentioned that her voice is used in a lot of products for blind people. She actually wrote back, she had no idea that her voice was so well known to blind people. She was actually very happy that her voice had made such a difference for us, regardless of whether you like Samantha’s voice, the person who created it sounds like a really nice person. http://tube.majestyc.net/?v=fL5s3pNJECk

From Aaron Linson

Hey guys, I’ve been a faithful listener to all of the Serotek podcasts. I have a point to make on the button issue with portable reading devices. As a college student I find my book port plus to be invaluable to me. I can jump through a book as fast if not faster than a sighted college student. I also find that I’m faster with the book player than a touch screen., pushing a button is faster than swiping and the kickback is instantaneous where as a flick takes a millisecond longer. Just my thoughts and opinions.
Thanks, Aaron Linson My vision is good, it’s just my eyes that are not

From Timothy Hornig

Greetings,

I appreciate the information and stances you all took with regards to visually impaired owning and using firearms. As long as the 2nd Amendment stands in it current interpretation and regulatory stances, we as a demographic should be allowed the ability to receive training, licensure, and ability to legally use them. Earlier this year, I received the chance to go turkey hunting, where my guide and I scored two birds. The ability to do this comes in large part due to the iPhone and a system called iScope (http://www.iscope.com)./ Before actually heading out, it took a little bit of time to work out our communications preferences with targeting.

Likewise, those who wish to own personal handguns should go through the most thorough set of training possible. However, I strongly concede to the point that these individuals, regardless of their personal abilities, should really look at the difference between owning for personal safety/defense and owning to own. A handgun in the hands of an ill-trained or familiarized individual is more dangerous to that person then in the hands of an highly trained person. As a reminder, it is perfectly fine to ask your local police department, firearm store, or shooting range to potentially store your weapon if you have concerns of home storage.

As for the iPhone 5S, one thought comes to mind, vid for I’ve Got a Golden Ticket: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29_uSlEEPSk

Enjoy, Tim

Roundabout

In new TV role, Michael J. Fox a pioneer

Fake Service Dogs, Real Problem

‘I’m the original voice of Siri’

Do you enjoy our SPN Podcasts? You can help us out a whole lot by taking this very short survey.

]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 172: The Sarah Tech In this podcast, Serotek's own Matt Campbell drops by for his regular visit to the show. Did you know there was a pattern to his appearances? You'll have to listen to the podcast to see what it is. Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 172: The Sarah Tech In this podcast, Serotek's own Matt Campbell drops by for his regular visit to the show. Did you know there was a pattern to his appearances? You'll have to listen to the podcast to see what it is. In addition to referencing several stories, Jamie, Ricky and matt mention quite a number of books and authors. There are too many to mention here, so you'll want to take notes as you listen. After the news, Lisa Salinger tells us about The Serotek Ambassadors' Club and how you can become a member. Stories discussed in this podcast include: NLS BARD Site Back Online Despite Government Shutdown Is Congress catastrophically broken, or is it doing exactly what it was designed to do? Zoom H6 Recorder Review The New iPhone 5c and Walk-Through of the Initial Setup Process for VoiceOver Users The Journey Toward Braille: Potential and Limitations of using Braille with iDevices Dr. Abraham Nemeth, inventor of the Braille math code, dies at 94 The technological terrors of Tom Clancy Valve Steam Machines, Steam Controller, and SteamOS: Visionary or Vapor? Valve details specs for Linux-based Steam Machine prototype gaming PCs Goodbye Microsoft Security Essentials: Microsoft Now Recommends You Use a Third-Party Antivirus Why the blue screen of death no longer plagues Windows users Facebook makes statuses editable… but is this open to abuse? Facebook Pushes Passwords One Step Closer to Death iOS 7 nausea and cybersickness: What causes it, and why it’s a sign of things to come Mailbag From Mike Arrigo Thought you might be interested in this. It's an interview with Susan Bennett who is definitely the voice of Samantha. I actually emailed her from her site, told her who I was and mentioned that her voice is used in a lot of products for blind people. She actually wrote back, she had no idea that her voice was so well known to blind people. She was actually very happy that her voice had made such a difference for us, regardless of whether you like Samantha's voice, the person who created it sounds like a really nice person. http://tube.majestyc.net/?v=fL5s3pNJECk From Aaron Linson Hey guys, I've been a faithful listener to all of the Serotek podcasts. I have a point to make on the button issue with portable reading devices. As a college student I find my book port plus to be invaluable to me. I can jump through a book as fast if not faster than a sighted college student. I also find that I'm faster with the book player than a touch screen., pushing a button is faster than swiping and the kickback is instantaneous where as a flick takes a millisecond longer. Just my thoughts and opinions.Thanks, Aaron Linson My vision is good, it's just my eyes that are not From Timothy Hornig Greetings, I appreciate the information and stances you all took with regards to visually impaired owning and using firearms. As long as the 2nd Amendment stands in it current interpretation and regulatory stances, we as a demographic should be allowed the ability to receive training, licensure, and ability to legally use them. Earlier this year, I received the chance to go turkey hunting, where my guide and I scored two birds. The ability to do this comes in large part due to the iPhone and a system called iScope (http://www.iscope.com)./ Before actually heading out, it took a little bit of time to work out our communications preferences with targeting. Likewise, those who wish to own personal handguns should go through the most thorough set of training possible. However, I strongly concede to the point that these individuals, regardless of their personal abilities, should really look at the difference between owning for personal safety/defense and owning to own. A handgun in the hands of an ill-trained or familiarized individual is more dangerous to that person then in the hands of an highly trained person. As a reminder, it is perfectly fine to ask your local police department, firearm store, SeroTalk no 18:19 SeroTalk Podcast 170: Dial-Up or Bust /2013/09/25/serotalk-podcast-170-dial-up-or-bust/ Wed, 25 Sep 2013 08:37:41 +0000 /?p=3290 Continue reading →]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 170: Dial-Up or Bust

In this week’s episode, Joe tries to run and hide from all the Apple frenzy, but Jamie and Ricky talk him into sharing his thoughts. Believe it or not, Apple news isn’t the only thing on this podcast. Topics discussed in this podcast include:

BARD Mobile for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch on the iTunes App Store

End of an era. APH no longer sells a cassette player,

Audiobooks Have Become Cool

What’s new in iOS 7 accessibility for individuals who are blind, deaf-blind, or who have low vision

Maccessibility » Review – iOS 7 and VoiceOver

Liam Erven demonstrates using fingerprint ID in the iPhone 5s

Listen to Triple-click Home Episode 22 featuring our interview with Jonathan Mosen

Look in the iOS 7 folder of iBlink Radio for more iOS 7 resources

The Apple Braille Crisis. It’s Got to be Fixed for the Kids

Apple TV 6.0 released with iTunes Radio, AirPlay from iCloud, iTunes Music Store, more

Apple goes on charm offensive with new iPhone launch

Apple’s iOS 7 includes a surprise: a ticket to the next generation of the internet

3 percent of American adults still cling to dial-up Internet

Not fast enough, not broad enough: The US Internet in 2013

BlackBerry cuts 4,500 jobs; shares halted on news

No Update on Microsoft CEO Search, but Company Divides in Five New Business Segments

Here is a link to the Apple II e emulator discussed on the podcast

Mailbag

Pete Bossley writes in to say:

I know I’m late commenting on this one, but here goes:
I’m not in favor of laws that preclude people from carrying, owning, buying or otherwise participating in and with firearms based on their blindness alone. I believe that it is a fundamental right that we possess. That having been said, owning and using a firearm safely are responsibilities that shouldn’t be taken lightly. By blind people or sighted people alike. And like it or not, a firearm is one of the more dangerous objects out there that are in common circulation. It is important to understand that bullets can and do travel significant distances and in unpredictable directions when they strike solid surfaces like brick and pavement. So, in short, a blind person should go out and get some quality professional training, and I would venture to say that they probably need 5 to 10 times the training that a sighted person may, simply in order to understand the risks involved. Then they should carefully weigh the risks, keeping in mind their special limitations, in addition to the criminal, civil, and moral liabilities attendant to exercising that right, and then make an informed decision. As an aside, I totally agree with Ricky’s comments regarding legislating responsibility. Having some significant personal experience in this Arena I really want to urge caution on this particular issue for folks…

Roundabout

Japan to fight Internet addiction with ‘fasting camps’

How Siri found its voice

Do you enjoy our SPN Podcasts? You can help us out a whole lot by taking this very short survey.

]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 170: Dial-Up or Bust In this week's episode, Joe tries to run and hide from all the Apple frenzy, but Jamie and Ricky talk him into sharing his thoughts. Believe it or not, Apple news isn't the only thing on this podcast. Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 170: Dial-Up or Bust In this week's episode, Joe tries to run and hide from all the Apple frenzy, but Jamie and Ricky talk him into sharing his thoughts. Believe it or not, Apple news isn't the only thing on this podcast. Topics discussed in this podcast include: BARD Mobile for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch on the iTunes App Store End of an era. APH no longer sells a cassette player, Audiobooks Have Become Cool What’s new in iOS 7 accessibility for individuals who are blind, deaf-blind, or who have low vision Maccessibility » Review – iOS 7 and VoiceOver Liam Erven demonstrates using fingerprint ID in the iPhone 5s Listen to Triple-click Home Episode 22 featuring our interview with Jonathan Mosen Look in the iOS 7 folder of iBlink Radio for more iOS 7 resources The Apple Braille Crisis. It’s Got to be Fixed for the Kids Apple TV 6.0 released with iTunes Radio, AirPlay from iCloud, iTunes Music Store, more Apple goes on charm offensive with new iPhone launch Apple’s iOS 7 includes a surprise: a ticket to the next generation of the internet 3 percent of American adults still cling to dial-up Internet Not fast enough, not broad enough: The US Internet in 2013 BlackBerry cuts 4,500 jobs; shares halted on news No Update on Microsoft CEO Search, but Company Divides in Five New Business Segments Here is a link to the Apple II e emulator discussed on the podcast Mailbag Pete Bossley writes in to say: I know I’m late commenting on this one, but here goes: I’m not in favor of laws that preclude people from carrying, owning, buying or otherwise participating in and with firearms based on their blindness alone. I believe that it is a fundamental right that we possess. That having been said, owning and using a firearm safely are responsibilities that shouldn’t be taken lightly. By blind people or sighted people alike. And like it or not, a firearm is one of the more dangerous objects out there that are in common circulation. It is important to understand that bullets can and do travel significant distances and in unpredictable directions when they strike solid surfaces like brick and pavement. So, in short, a blind person should go out and get some quality professional training, and I would venture to say that they probably need 5 to 10 times the training that a sighted person may, simply in order to understand the risks involved. Then they should carefully weigh the risks, keeping in mind their special limitations, in addition to the criminal, civil, and moral liabilities attendant to exercising that right, and then make an informed decision. As an aside, I totally agree with Ricky’s comments regarding legislating responsibility. Having some significant personal experience in this Arena I really want to urge caution on this particular issue for folks… Roundabout Japan to fight Internet addiction with 'fasting camps' How Siri found its voice Do you enjoy our SPN Podcasts? You can help us out a whole lot by taking this very short survey. SeroTalk no 1:20:36 SeroTalk Podcast 169: Space Gray Is the New Black /2013/09/17/serotalk-podcast-169-space-gray-is-the-new-black/ Tue, 17 Sep 2013 12:30:15 +0000 /?p=3274 Continue reading →]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 169: Space Gray Is the New Black

This week, Jamie, Ricky and Joe return to their familiar places on the podcast. Topics discussed in this week’s episode include:

Extra Extra, Read all About it: the NLS Bard Mobile app is on its way!

JAWS 15 Public Beta

NCBI Podcast #16 Features Sendero GPS, the Serotek Socializer, and more

Amazon.com: Out of the Whirlpool: A Memoir of Remorse and Reconciliation eBook: Sue Wiygul Martin: Kindle Store

ATI Seminar Subscription

Keyboard shortcuts – Perform common Firefox tasks quickly

Homophones are Not Mistaken in Braille

Keeping Students with Disabilities Safe from Bullying

National Federation of the Blind Comments on Gun Ownership by Blind Individuals

Apple launches iPhone 5C: Color, costs aimed at emerging markets

2015: 64-bit ARM chips in iPhone 5S serve up taste of Intel-free future for Apple

Apple provides details on Touch ID’s privacy features

What’s right (and wrong) with the iPhone 5c and iPhone 5s

10 new iOS 7 features for the enterprise

iCloud Keychain Removed in iOS 7 GM

OS X 10.8.5 update more than doubles 802.11ac file transfer speeds

Blast Processing

Microsoft’s Cortana shapes up to take on Siri, Google Now

Facebook suddenly deletes Social Fixer’s Facebook pages

Facebook testing videos that autoplay in mobile News Feed

Mailbag

From Luis

Hi Jamie, Joe, Ricky, or whom ever else that will join this week’s podcast,

After just finishing listening to Podcast 168 and listening to RoundAbout. The last story covered about the Simpson’s creator finding funny with his cancer fight. It reminds me about a story on CBS’s Today show back in February. On how creative a cancer survivor became with his wealth. Here’s the story that I got back then from a Houston morning show. By the way, as far as I know, no one has located the treasure yet, but be aware. That people have needed to be rescued when trying to follow the clues. Enjoy.

This Riddle Will Lead You To Millions! If You Can Solve It! Sarah Pepper February 28, 2013 A man was dying of cancer and so he hid a box with jewels and treasure in it! He wrote a riddle and if you can solve it the treasure is yours! I know, sounds like “The Goonies” but it is legit, it was on the “Today Show”! Here is the riddle. “The Thrill of the Chase”. As I have gone alone in there And with my treasures bold, I can keep my secret where, And hint of riches new and old. Begin it where warm waters halt And take it in the canyon down, Not far, but too far to walk. Put in below the home of Brown. From there it’s no place for the meek, The end is drawing ever nigh; There’ll be no paddle up your creek, Just heavy loads and water high. If you’ve been wise and found the blaze, Look quickly down, your quest to cease But tarry scant with marvel gaze, Just take the chest and go in peace. So why is it that I must go And leave my trove for all to seek? The answers I already know I’ve done it tired, and now I’m weak So hear me all and listen good, Your effort will be worth the cold. If you are brave and in the wood I give you title to the gold. Happy hunting!

From Mike Arrigo

The plextalk update is really good. Samantha actually sounds decent now, that was a change that is long overdue. I used to have a tech net subscription and I’m also sorry to see this disappear. It was a great way to get access to Microsoft software at a good price, and it’s how I got windows 7. I don’t know, some of the decisions Microsoft is making these days do not seem to be in their best interest. I have yet to hear anyone say that they really like windows 8, now they’re purchasing Nokia’s hardware division, and they’re discontinuing a service that is clearly still in demand. they are going to have to rethink some things if they intend to remain competitive.

Roundabout

First Blind Solo Kayaker Goes Down Entire Length of Grand Canyon

Why Do We Clap?

Surgeon live-streams knee repair with Google Glass

Do you enjoy our SPN Podcasts? You can help us out a whole lot by taking this very short survey.

]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 169: Space Gray Is the New Black This week, Jamie, Ricky and Joe return to their familiar places on the podcast. Topics discussed in this week's episode include: Extra Extra, Read all About it: the NLS Bard Mobile app is on... Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 169: Space Gray Is the New Black This week, Jamie, Ricky and Joe return to their familiar places on the podcast. Topics discussed in this week's episode include: Extra Extra, Read all About it: the NLS Bard Mobile app is on its way! JAWS 15 Public Beta NCBI Podcast #16 Features Sendero GPS, the Serotek Socializer, and more Amazon.com: Out of the Whirlpool: A Memoir of Remorse and Reconciliation eBook: Sue Wiygul Martin: Kindle Store ATI Seminar Subscription Keyboard shortcuts - Perform common Firefox tasks quickly Homophones are Not Mistaken in Braille Keeping Students with Disabilities Safe from Bullying National Federation of the Blind Comments on Gun Ownership by Blind Individuals Apple launches iPhone 5C: Color, costs aimed at emerging markets 2015: 64-bit ARM chips in iPhone 5S serve up taste of Intel-free future for Apple Apple provides details on Touch ID's privacy features What's right (and wrong) with the iPhone 5c and iPhone 5s 10 new iOS 7 features for the enterprise iCloud Keychain Removed in iOS 7 GM OS X 10.8.5 update more than doubles 802.11ac file transfer speeds Blast Processing Microsoft's Cortana shapes up to take on Siri, Google Now Facebook suddenly deletes Social Fixer’s Facebook pages Facebook testing videos that autoplay in mobile News Feed Mailbag From Luis Hi Jamie, Joe, Ricky, or whom ever else that will join this week's podcast, After just finishing listening to Podcast 168 and listening to RoundAbout. The last story covered about the Simpson's creator finding funny with his cancer fight. It reminds me about a story on CBS's Today show back in February. On how creative a cancer survivor became with his wealth. Here's the story that I got back then from a Houston morning show. By the way, as far as I know, no one has located the treasure yet, but be aware. That people have needed to be rescued when trying to follow the clues. Enjoy. This Riddle Will Lead You To Millions! If You Can Solve It! Sarah Pepper February 28, 2013 A man was dying of cancer and so he hid a box with jewels and treasure in it! He wrote a riddle and if you can solve it the treasure is yours! I know, sounds like “The Goonies” but it is legit, it was on the “Today Show”! Here is the riddle. “The Thrill of the Chase”. As I have gone alone in there And with my treasures bold, I can keep my secret where, And hint of riches new and old. Begin it where warm waters halt And take it in the canyon down, Not far, but too far to walk. Put in below the home of Brown. From there it’s no place for the meek, The end is drawing ever nigh; There’ll be no paddle up your creek, Just heavy loads and water high. If you’ve been wise and found the blaze, Look quickly down, your quest to cease But tarry scant with marvel gaze, Just take the chest and go in peace. So why is it that I must go And leave my trove for all to seek? The answers I already know I’ve done it tired, and now I’m weak So hear me all and listen good, Your effort will be worth the cold. If you are brave and in the wood I give you title to the gold. Happy hunting! From Mike Arrigo The plextalk update is really good. Samantha actually sounds decent now, that was a change that is long overdue. I used to have a tech net subscription and I'm also sorry to see this disappear. It was a great way to get access to Microsoft software at a good price, and it's how I got windows 7. I don't know, some of the decisions Microsoft is making these days do not seem to be in their best interest. I have yet to hear anyone say that they really like windows 8, now they're purchasing Nokia's hardware division, and they're discontinuing a service that is clearly still in demand. they are going to have to rethink some things if they intend to remain competitive. Roundabout First Blind Solo Kayaker Goes Down Entire Length of Grand Canyon Why Do We Clap? Surgeon live-streams knee repair with Google Glass Do you enjoy our SPN Podcasts? SeroTalk no 1:13:08 SeroTalk Podcast 164: Let Me Feel Your Phone Face /2013/08/14/serotalk-podcast-164-let-me-feel-your-phone-face/ /2013/08/14/serotalk-podcast-164-let-me-feel-your-phone-face/#comments Wed, 14 Aug 2013 09:24:12 +0000 /?p=3169 Continue reading →]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 164: Let Me Feel Your Phone Face

If there is one thing that can be said about a SeroTalk Podcast, it is that you never know what you’re going to get. Petting cheetah cubs, riding in self-driving cars and rapping about science are just a few of the stories we cover on this week’s episode. One thing you can be sure of, however, is that the SeroTalk podcast team will get you where you need to go all in one piece. Join Jamie, Ricky and Joe as they discuss the top stories of the week including:

The Next Chapter

A Review of the Socializer System Access Mobile Network App from Serotek

Entertainment Apps For The Blind And Visually Impaired

Papa Sangre II

Blind games: The next battleground in accessibility

Blind Bargains: Introducing the Cosmo Braille Writer

Life – A tactile comic for the blind

Using the Victor Reader Stream as an audible teleprompter

Now Hear This! Musings of a Blind Hearing Aid wearer

From Fedora Outlier: Managing Your Wireless Settings On Windows & Mac

Campaign for a more accessible Netflix

New release of the Kindle app for iOS adds Accessibility Quick Reference to the FAQ section in Settings

Amazon and Sony Don’t Want to Build E-Readers for the Blind

Blind Bargains: Amazon and Sony Are Requesting That The Accessibility Requirement Be Waived for E-Book Readers

Dropbox Folder Management Using JAWS for Windows

Screen Reader Failure: Innovation, Deterioration, Despair

Roundabout

H E A R and There Audio Magazine: Petting Cheetah Cubs at the Cincinnati Zoo

Science Rap B.A.T.T.L.E.S. Bring Hip-Hop Into The Classroom

What it’s like to ride in a self-driving car

Join Lisa Salinger on August 19 at 8 PM in the Pat Price Tech Talk Training room over at Accessible World to discuss our exciting new SAMNet Socializer. We look forward to seeing you there.

Do you enjoy our SPN Podcasts? You can help us out a whole lot by taking this very short survey.

]]> /2013/08/14/serotalk-podcast-164-let-me-feel-your-phone-face/feed/ 2 Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 164: Let Me Feel Your Phone Face If there is one thing that can be said about a SeroTalk Podcast, it is that you never know what you're going to get. Petting cheetah cubs, riding in self-driving cars and rapping about scienc... Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 164: Let Me Feel Your Phone Face If there is one thing that can be said about a SeroTalk Podcast, it is that you never know what you're going to get. Petting cheetah cubs, riding in self-driving cars and rapping about science are just a few of the stories we cover on this week's episode. One thing you can be sure of, however, is that the SeroTalk podcast team will get you where you need to go all in one piece. Join Jamie, Ricky and Joe as they discuss the top stories of the week including: The Next Chapter A Review of the Socializer System Access Mobile Network App from Serotek Entertainment Apps For The Blind And Visually Impaired Papa Sangre II Blind games: The next battleground in accessibility Blind Bargains: Introducing the Cosmo Braille Writer Life - A tactile comic for the blind Using the Victor Reader Stream as an audible teleprompter Now Hear This! Musings of a Blind Hearing Aid wearer From Fedora Outlier: Managing Your Wireless Settings On Windows & Mac Campaign for a more accessible Netflix New release of the Kindle app for iOS adds Accessibility Quick Reference to the FAQ section in Settings Amazon and Sony Don't Want to Build E-Readers for the Blind Blind Bargains: Amazon and Sony Are Requesting That The Accessibility Requirement Be Waived for E-Book Readers Dropbox Folder Management Using JAWS for Windows Screen Reader Failure: Innovation, Deterioration, Despair Roundabout H E A R and There Audio Magazine: Petting Cheetah Cubs at the Cincinnati Zoo Science Rap B.A.T.T.L.E.S. Bring Hip-Hop Into The Classroom What it’s like to ride in a self-driving car Join Lisa Salinger on August 19 at 8 PM in the Pat Price Tech Talk Training room over at Accessible World to discuss our exciting new SAMNet Socializer. We look forward to seeing you there. Do you enjoy our SPN Podcasts? You can help us out a whole lot by taking this very short survey. SeroTalk no 1:07:07 SeroSpectives: This Month in Technology for June, 2013 /2013/07/16/serospectives-this-month-in-technology-for-june-2013/ Tue, 16 Jul 2013 13:30:48 +0000 /?p=3005 Continue reading →]]> Listen to SeroSpectives: This Month in Tech for June, 2013

Replay the Accessible Event archive of This Month in Tech for June

Join Lisa Salinger, Steve Sawczyn, and Jamie Pauls as they discuss the top news stories for the month of June.

Apple
What Apple revealed at WWDC 2013 | Apple – CNET News

WWDC 2013, A Lot of Announcements | MacForTheBlind

Apple announces ad based iTunes Radio, ad free for iTunes Match subscribers

OS X Mavericks First Impressions: A Little Good Going a Long Way

Microsoft

Microsoft goes public with Windows 8.1 upgrade policies

All the New Stuff in Windows 8.1

In the News

White House defends snooping of Verizon phone records | Security & Privacy

Miracle In Marrakesh: “Historic” Treaty For Visually Impaired Agreed

International Copyright Treaty for the Blind – Sowing the Seeds

The Book Famine for the Blind May Soon Be a Thing of the Past

In the Community

From Blind Bargains: Buy Your Version of Chicken Nugget Today

Introducing the SAMNet Socializer

AN objective look: iOS vs. Android for the visually impaired. (2 parts)

Part1

Part2

MBraille Home Page

Tech Doctor Podcast: MBraille Advances Touch Screen Braille

Weight Watchers Announces Comprehensive Accessibility Initiative

Accepting Physical Credit Card Payments: the Accessible PayPal Solution: a Podcast by Steve Sawczyn

Serotek at the NFB and ACB National Conventions

Feel free to follow SeroSpectives on Twitter.

]]> Listen to SeroSpectives: This Month in Tech for June, 2013 Replay the Accessible Event archive of This Month in Tech for June Join Lisa Salinger, Steve Sawczyn, and Jamie Pauls as they discuss the top news stories for the month of June. Apple Listen to SeroSpectives: This Month in Tech for June, 2013 Replay the Accessible Event archive of This Month in Tech for June Join Lisa Salinger, Steve Sawczyn, and Jamie Pauls as they discuss the top news stories for the month of June. Apple What Apple revealed at WWDC 2013 | Apple - CNET News WWDC 2013, A Lot of Announcements | MacForTheBlind Apple announces ad based iTunes Radio, ad free for iTunes Match subscribers OS X Mavericks First Impressions: A Little Good Going a Long Way Microsoft Microsoft goes public with Windows 8.1 upgrade policies All the New Stuff in Windows 8.1 In the News White House defends snooping of Verizon phone records | Security & Privacy Miracle In Marrakesh: “Historic” Treaty For Visually Impaired Agreed International Copyright Treaty for the Blind – Sowing the Seeds The Book Famine for the Blind May Soon Be a Thing of the Past In the Community From Blind Bargains: Buy Your Version of Chicken Nugget Today Introducing the SAMNet Socializer AN objective look: iOS vs. Android for the visually impaired. (2 parts) Part1 Part2 MBraille Home Page Tech Doctor Podcast: MBraille Advances Touch Screen Braille Weight Watchers Announces Comprehensive Accessibility Initiative Accepting Physical Credit Card Payments: the Accessible PayPal Solution: a Podcast by Steve Sawczyn Serotek at the NFB and ACB National Conventions Feel free to follow SeroSpectives on Twitter. SeroTalk no 1:24:31 SPN Special: HIMS NFB Workshop Part 1 /2013/07/12/spn-special-hims-nfb-workshop-part-1/ Fri, 12 Jul 2013 11:35:29 +0000 /?p=2948 Continue reading →]]> Listen to our SPN special: HIMS NFB Workshop Part 1

In part 1 of the HIMS NFB workshop, Jenny Axler and Scott Hegle demonstrate the new features of Braille Sense and Voice Sense notetaker version 8.0 including Dropbox, YouTube, RSS, Excel Viewer and the new Quick Browser as well as enhancements to Twitter and the Word Processor.

To learn more about HIMS INC., you can Follow HIMS on Twitter

Or Like them on Facebook

The SeroTalk Podcast Network would like to thank HIMS for sponsoring this year’s NFB and ACB convention coverage.

]]> Listen to our SPN special: HIMS NFB Workshop Part 1 In part 1 of the HIMS NFB workshop, Jenny Axler and Scott Hegle demonstrate the new features of Braille Sense and Voice Sense notetaker version 8.0 including Dropbox, YouTube, RSS, Listen to our SPN special: HIMS NFB Workshop Part 1 In part 1 of the HIMS NFB workshop, Jenny Axler and Scott Hegle demonstrate the new features of Braille Sense and Voice Sense notetaker version 8.0 including Dropbox, YouTube, RSS, Excel Viewer and the new Quick Browser as well as enhancements to Twitter and the Word Processor. To learn more about HIMS INC., you can Follow HIMS on Twitter Or Like them on Facebook The SeroTalk Podcast Network would like to thank HIMS for sponsoring this year's NFB and ACB convention coverage. SeroTalk no 1:21:28 sPN Special, State of Technology with Mike Calvo /2013/07/10/spn-special-state-of-technology-with-mike-calvo/ /2013/07/10/spn-special-state-of-technology-with-mike-calvo/#comments Wed, 10 Jul 2013 10:50:51 +0000 /?p=2934 Continue reading →]]> Listen to our SPN Special: State of Technology, with Mike calvo

In this special discussing the state of technology, Ricky Enger is joined by Mike Calvo and Joe Orozco to explore happenings in mainstream and assistive technology.

The talk begins by exploring Serotek’s view on the screen reader in general, and expands to cover specifics about System Access as well as free screen readers such as Voiceover, Narrator and NVDA. The team then discusses the role that the SeroTalk Podcast Network plays in bringing unbiased news about mainstream and assistive technology to the community, and provides a way for AT companies to work together for the benefit of all.

The community talk continues with a discussion of Serotek’s new Socializer, available with a SAMNet or Accessibility Anywhere subscription. After that, the discussion turns to updates in mainstream technology, focusing on accessibility of and availability of ebooks. The Amazon Kindle app was discussed in detail, along with the Nook and iBooks apps. Bookshare, Audible and NLS are discussed, and the group explores what it means for the blindness community to have access to more books than ever before. The group closes with Mike Calvo giving a brief glimpse of the future of Serotek as well as a look at the future of mainstream and assistive technology in the blindness community.

]]> /2013/07/10/spn-special-state-of-technology-with-mike-calvo/feed/ 2 Listen to our SPN Special: State of Technology, with Mike calvo In this special discussing the state of technology, Ricky Enger is joined by Mike Calvo and Joe Orozco to explore happenings in mainstream and assistive technology. Listen to our SPN Special: State of Technology, with Mike calvo In this special discussing the state of technology, Ricky Enger is joined by Mike Calvo and Joe Orozco to explore happenings in mainstream and assistive technology. The talk begins by exploring Serotek's view on the screen reader in general, and expands to cover specifics about System Access as well as free screen readers such as Voiceover, Narrator and NVDA. The team then discusses the role that the SeroTalk Podcast Network plays in bringing unbiased news about mainstream and assistive technology to the community, and provides a way for AT companies to work together for the benefit of all. The community talk continues with a discussion of Serotek's new Socializer, available with a SAMNet or Accessibility Anywhere subscription. After that, the discussion turns to updates in mainstream technology, focusing on accessibility of and availability of ebooks. The Amazon Kindle app was discussed in detail, along with the Nook and iBooks apps. Bookshare, Audible and NLS are discussed, and the group explores what it means for the blindness community to have access to more books than ever before. The group closes with Mike Calvo giving a brief glimpse of the future of Serotek as well as a look at the future of mainstream and assistive technology in the blindness community. SeroTalk no 58:27 SeroTalk Podcast 154: Webmind Is Coming /2013/05/15/serotalk-podcast-154-webmind-is-coming/ /2013/05/15/serotalk-podcast-154-webmind-is-coming/#comments Wed, 15 May 2013 11:50:06 +0000 /?p=2726 Continue reading →]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 154: Webmind Is Coming This week, Joe Steinkamp is joined by Ricky Enger and Buddy Brannan in a discussion of the top news stories of the week. Then, Jamie Pauls visits with Boaz Zilberman about RAY, an Android-based smartphone accessibility solution coming to the United States in June of this Year.

Internet Taxation Coming Soon to a Link Near You Syria cut off from the Internet once again No joke: The Onion tells how Syrian Electronic Army hacked its Twitter Twitter API v 1 retirement date extended to June 11 Don’t throw dirt on the grave of Windows 8 just yet Microsoft confirms public preview of Windows 8 in late June What’s new about Windows Blue Windows Start button could make a comeback, Microsoft exec says Tablets devastate laptop market T-Mobile USA moves half million iPhone 5’s in first month, spurs first subscriber growth since 2009 New Apple patent suggests that future iPhones could sport invisible buttons Apple closes in on 50 billion app downloads, offers $10,000 to the person who hits it David Woodbridge: Review of the Accessible Kindle app with VoiceOver NFB Grading of Kindle Accessibility on iOS Chris Danielsen from NFB comments on Buddy’s Kindle opinion post. “Poisoning the Treaty for the Blind” Blind advocates: Hollywood lobbying threatens deal for accessible books Here is a related article from Matt Campbell about HTML5, W3C and DRM Serotek blog post: Consumer Tip: Protect Yourself from Bill Shock A user review of NVDA in the Braille Monitor: My Constant Search for Accessibility The 2013.1rc2 version of NVDA has been released [ChromeVox 27 Released! Math support, ChromeVox context menu, and more] Viber more accessible on iOS but not PC and Mac Looktel Money Reader Gains New Currencies Join CathyAnne on May 18, 4:00 PM for An Introduction to Word 2013

Roundabout

Poll: 90% of parents admit to multitasking while behind the wheel, even with kids in the car Typing with Brain Waves Do you enjoy our SPN Podcasts? You can help us out a whole lot by taking this very short survey.

]]> /2013/05/15/serotalk-podcast-154-webmind-is-coming/feed/ 1 Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 154: Webmind Is Coming This week, Joe Steinkamp is joined by Ricky Enger and Buddy Brannan in a discussion of the top news stories of the week. Then, Jamie Pauls visits with Boaz Zilberman about RAY, Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 154: Webmind Is Coming This week, Joe Steinkamp is joined by Ricky Enger and Buddy Brannan in a discussion of the top news stories of the week. Then, Jamie Pauls visits with Boaz Zilberman about RAY, an Android-based smartphone accessibility solution coming to the United States in June of this Year. Internet Taxation Coming Soon to a Link Near You Syria cut off from the Internet once again No joke: The Onion tells how Syrian Electronic Army hacked its Twitter Twitter API v 1 retirement date extended to June 11 Don't throw dirt on the grave of Windows 8 just yet Microsoft confirms public preview of Windows 8 in late June What's new about Windows Blue Windows Start button could make a comeback, Microsoft exec says Tablets devastate laptop market T-Mobile USA moves half million iPhone 5's in first month, spurs first subscriber growth since 2009 New Apple patent suggests that future iPhones could sport invisible buttons Apple closes in on 50 billion app downloads, offers $10,000 to the person who hits it David Woodbridge: Review of the Accessible Kindle app with VoiceOver NFB Grading of Kindle Accessibility on iOS Chris Danielsen from NFB comments on Buddy's Kindle opinion post. "Poisoning the Treaty for the Blind" Blind advocates: Hollywood lobbying threatens deal for accessible books Here is a related article from Matt Campbell about HTML5, W3C and DRM Serotek blog post: Consumer Tip: Protect Yourself from Bill Shock A user review of NVDA in the Braille Monitor: My Constant Search for Accessibility The 2013.1rc2 version of NVDA has been released [ChromeVox 27 Released! Math support, ChromeVox context menu, and more] Viber more accessible on iOS but not PC and Mac Looktel Money Reader Gains New Currencies Join CathyAnne on May 18, 4:00 PM for An Introduction to Word 2013 Roundabout Poll: 90% of parents admit to multitasking while behind the wheel, even with kids in the car Typing with Brain Waves Do you enjoy our SPN Podcasts? You can help us out a whole lot by taking this very short survey. SeroTalk no 1:42:59 SeroTalk Podcast 153: Scan My Brain /2013/05/08/serotalk-podcast-153-scan-my-brain/ Wed, 08 May 2013 15:20:32 +0000 /?p=2716 Continue reading →]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 153: Scan My Brain There was just a bit of excitement in the air as Jamie, Ricky and Joe recorded this week’s podcast. What sparked all the enthusiasm? If you don’t already know, stick around and you’ll soon find out. After the news, Jamie demonstrates how to send a previously-scanned document to Amazon’s Kindle app using DocuScan Plus.

Amazon Bringing New Accessibility Features to Free Kindle Reading Apps

Kindle for iOS Can Make Siri Read Your Books Aloud (Sort of)

Did you know you can send documents you’ve scanned using DocuScan Plus directly to your Kindle hardware or iOS app?

Amazon Kindle for iOS Now Accessible to VoiceOver Users by Justin Romack

National Federation of the Blind Comments on Amazon Kindle App

Amazon Kindle Accessibility: What?!

How to get the Kindle for iOS Accessibility Gestures – Quick Reference Guide

New update for Fleksy

Personality, Android and iOS

ChangeReaction 2 Is Released for Windows Operating Systems

Top Reader

Free Webinar: NetEcho by Internet Speech

Five Things I Didn’t Know About Writing a Book

iOS Success: Making the iPad Accessible, A Guide for Teachers and Parents

The Human Error with Humanware

Here are the results of a March 2013 survey of computer users with low vision conducted by WebAIM:

Freedom Scientific Announces Departure of Jonathan Mosen

Eric Schmidt Is Right, Using Google Glass Is Weird — Here’s My Experience

Google joins FIDO’s crusade to replace passwords | Security & Privacy

Google’s virtual assistant invades Siri’s turf

Microsoft ‘Mohoro’ Could Be A Whole New Way To Use Windows

Bloomberg: Jony Ive said to be considering ‘more dramatic’ changes to email and calendar amid iOS 7

How much is too much to pay for coffee with Tim Cook?

Roundabout

I’m still here: back online after a year without the internet

Happy birthday, Web! Public Internet turns 20

Sky News: Blind people ‘have better memories’

Do you enjoy our SPN Podcasts? You can help us out a whole lot by taking this very short survey.

]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 153: Scan My Brain There was just a bit of excitement in the air as Jamie, Ricky and Joe recorded this week's podcast. What sparked all the enthusiasm? If you don't already know, stick around and you'll soon find out. Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 153: Scan My Brain There was just a bit of excitement in the air as Jamie, Ricky and Joe recorded this week's podcast. What sparked all the enthusiasm? If you don't already know, stick around and you'll soon find out. After the news, Jamie demonstrates how to send a previously-scanned document to Amazon's Kindle app using DocuScan Plus. Amazon Bringing New Accessibility Features to Free Kindle Reading Apps Kindle for iOS Can Make Siri Read Your Books Aloud (Sort of) Did you know you can send documents you've scanned using DocuScan Plus directly to your Kindle hardware or iOS app? Amazon Kindle for iOS Now Accessible to VoiceOver Users by Justin Romack National Federation of the Blind Comments on Amazon Kindle App Amazon Kindle Accessibility: What?! How to get the Kindle for iOS Accessibility Gestures - Quick Reference Guide New update for Fleksy Personality, Android and iOS ChangeReaction 2 Is Released for Windows Operating Systems Top Reader Free Webinar: NetEcho by Internet Speech Five Things I Didn’t Know About Writing a Book iOS Success: Making the iPad Accessible, A Guide for Teachers and Parents The Human Error with Humanware Here are the results of a March 2013 survey of computer users with low vision conducted by WebAIM: Freedom Scientific Announces Departure of Jonathan Mosen Eric Schmidt Is Right, Using Google Glass Is Weird — Here’s My Experience Google joins FIDO's crusade to replace passwords | Security & Privacy Google's virtual assistant invades Siri's turf Microsoft 'Mohoro' Could Be A Whole New Way To Use Windows Bloomberg: Jony Ive said to be considering 'more dramatic' changes to email and calendar amid iOS 7 How much is too much to pay for coffee with Tim Cook? Roundabout I’m still here: back online after a year without the internet Happy birthday, Web! Public Internet turns 20 Sky News: Blind people 'have better memories' Do you enjoy our SPN Podcasts? You can help us out a whole lot by taking this very short survey. SeroTalk no 1:24:26 SeroSpectives: This Month in Technology for April, 2013 /2013/05/03/serospectives-this-month-in-technology-for-april-2013/ Fri, 03 May 2013 15:58:02 +0000 /?p=2677 Continue reading →]]> Listen to SeroSpectives: This Month in Technology for April, 2013

About Our Presenters Amy Billman is an east to west coast transplant, happily calling California her home for the past four years. She has a bachelor’s degree in vocal performance, and a master’s in human resource management; and her passions lie in both music and HR.

Prior to moving to California, she was fortunate to have a job working in the nonprofit sector, where one of her many responsibilities, was helping clients with disabilities become job ready.

Amy is currently employed as a freelance transcription specialist; where she provides transcription services to clients in the market research industry.

She has owned and operated SpeedDots with her partner Doug, since 2011, and gets to use both her managing skills, and marketing background to run their company. “Our mission and goal,” she says, is to see that all who use iOS devices can truly, “type With Confidence.” It’s not just a slogan! I love educating people on how they can be even more productive with these already awesome and fully accessible devices. “In my spare time, you can usually find me in pursuit of my other passion: kitchen therapy! I enjoy cooking, and feeding people!”

You can follow her on twitter. Or, contact her via email. Visit SpeedDots for more information about our products.

Byron Lee is a Ham Radio Operator (KC9EEK), Broadcast Personality, Audio Engineer, Voice Over Artist, Web Designer, IT Professional, and most importantly, a huge geek! When asked about Byron, people often say “He’s just this guy, ya’ know?”

He is currently employed by Horizons for the Blind, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for people who are blind or visually impaired, and is currently working on the DirectionsForMe project, a one stop source for accessible packaging information.

In addition, Byron hosts two Internet radio shows. The Talk Zone is a two hour program about adaptive technology, disability rights, science fiction, pop-culture, and just about any other topic. The Fun Zone is a one hour program featuring comedy music. His shows are simulcast on ACB Radio Mainstream, Radio Free Dishnuts, The Beyond Radio Network, and Dementia Radio. He has also been involved in other radio shows and podcasts such as End of Line, a SeroTalk Podcast.

Justin Romack is a husband, daddy, marketing consultant, drummer and percussionist, and a ranting and raving fan of Texas Rangers baseball, much to the chagrin of his Twitter followers.

Justin owns Ontempo Ideas, a digital marketing agency delivering social media management, email marketing, search engine optimization and copywriting services to brands, businesses and organizations. He’s also the director of marketing and community for Fedora Outlier, LLC, a nationally-recognized provider of consulting, teaching and support for Apple’s array of accessible technologies.

Connect, heckle or stalk Justin online by following @JustinRomack on Twitter, finding Ontempo Ideas on Facebook, circling him on Google+, or connecting to his network on LinkedIn.

US Federal Reserve to introduce new $100 bill, first time with some accessibility.

WebAIM: Survey of Users with Low Vision Results

University of Bath (UK) study finds that congenitally blind people have better memories than sighted

Personality, Android and iOS

High Contrast Episode 10 Reviews Nexus 7 and iPad Mini

Directions for Me is seeking donations.

Amazon Bringing New Accessibility Features to Free Kindle Reading Apps

Did you know you can send documents you’ve scanned using DocuScan Plus directly to your #Kindle hardware or iOS app?

You can read about some of the crowd-sourcing features of the Kindle app–as well as directions to highlight sections and create notes within text–by clicking this link.

Google Now available for iPhone and iPad

The Old Hat Guide to iPhone Accessibility is now available.

Twitter Launches Twitter music App and Service

EasyChirp and SoloDX turn to crowd-funding, and meet their goals.

Sense Notetaker v8.0 Released – HIMS Inc

Zombies, Run! Season 2 is…Live?

We are delighted and proud to announce The Nightjar game — featuring Benedict Cumberbatch — is now on sale

]]> Listen to SeroSpectives: This Month in Technology for April, 2013 About Our Presenters Amy Billman is an east to west coast transplant, happily calling California her home for the past four years. She has a bachelor’s degree in vocal performance, Listen to SeroSpectives: This Month in Technology for April, 2013 About Our Presenters Amy Billman is an east to west coast transplant, happily calling California her home for the past four years. She has a bachelor’s degree in vocal performance, and a master’s in human resource management; and her passions lie in both music and HR. Prior to moving to California, she was fortunate to have a job working in the nonprofit sector, where one of her many responsibilities, was helping clients with disabilities become job ready. Amy is currently employed as a freelance transcription specialist; where she provides transcription services to clients in the market research industry. She has owned and operated SpeedDots with her partner Doug, since 2011, and gets to use both her managing skills, and marketing background to run their company. "Our mission and goal," she says, is to see that all who use iOS devices can truly, “type With Confidence.” It’s not just a slogan! I love educating people on how they can be even more productive with these already awesome and fully accessible devices. "In my spare time, you can usually find me in pursuit of my other passion: kitchen therapy! I enjoy cooking, and feeding people!" You can follow her on twitter. Or, contact her via email. Visit SpeedDots for more information about our products. Byron Lee is a Ham Radio Operator (KC9EEK), Broadcast Personality, Audio Engineer, Voice Over Artist, Web Designer, IT Professional, and most importantly, a huge geek! When asked about Byron, people often say “He’s just this guy, ya’ know?” He is currently employed by Horizons for the Blind, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for people who are blind or visually impaired, and is currently working on the DirectionsForMe project, a one stop source for accessible packaging information. In addition, Byron hosts two Internet radio shows. The Talk Zone is a two hour program about adaptive technology, disability rights, science fiction, pop-culture, and just about any other topic. The Fun Zone is a one hour program featuring comedy music. His shows are simulcast on ACB Radio Mainstream, Radio Free Dishnuts, The Beyond Radio Network, and Dementia Radio. He has also been involved in other radio shows and podcasts such as End of Line, a SeroTalk Podcast. Justin Romack is a husband, daddy, marketing consultant, drummer and percussionist, and a ranting and raving fan of Texas Rangers baseball, much to the chagrin of his Twitter followers. Justin owns Ontempo Ideas, a digital marketing agency delivering social media management, email marketing, search engine optimization and copywriting services to brands, businesses and organizations. He's also the director of marketing and community for Fedora Outlier, LLC, a nationally-recognized provider of consulting, teaching and support for Apple's array of accessible technologies. Connect, heckle or stalk Justin online by following @JustinRomack on Twitter, finding Ontempo Ideas on Facebook, circling him on Google+, or connecting to his network on LinkedIn. US Federal Reserve to introduce new $100 bill, first time with some accessibility. WebAIM: Survey of Users with Low Vision Results University of Bath (UK) study finds that congenitally blind people have better memories than sighted Personality, Android and iOS High Contrast Episode 10 Reviews Nexus 7 and iPad Mini Directions for Me is seeking donations. Amazon Bringing New Accessibility Features to Free Kindle Reading Apps Did you know you can send documents you've scanned using DocuScan Plus directly to your #Kindle hardware or iOS app? You can read about some of the crowd-sourcing features of the Kindle app--as well as directions to highlight sections and create notes within text--by clicking this link. Google Now available for iPhone and iPad The Old Hat Guide to iPhone Accessibility is now available. Twitter Launches Twitter music App and Service SeroTalk no 1:40:19 CSUN 2013 Convention Special 5 /2013/03/12/csun-2013-convention-special-5/ Tue, 12 Mar 2013 14:17:12 +0000 /?p=2332 Continue reading →]]> Listen to CSUN 2013 Convention Special 5

Welcome to yet another in a series of interviews from this year’s CSUN conference. Be sure and visit the Web sites listed below in order to learn more about the various companies and products discussed in this podcast.

Hims

Magnisight

Victor Reader Stream

Ambutech

Bookshare

AI Squared

Canon

Seeking your opinion: should Serotek Start a newsletter?

Complete Serotek’s survey for your chance to win an iPad Mini

Do you enjoy our SPN Podcasts? You can help us out a whole lot by taking this very short survey.

]]> Listen to CSUN 2013 Convention Special 5 - Welcome to yet another in a series of interviews from this year’s CSUN conference. Be sure and visit the Web sites listed below in order to learn more about the various companies and products discussed in thi... Listen to CSUN 2013 Convention Special 5 Welcome to yet another in a series of interviews from this year’s CSUN conference. Be sure and visit the Web sites listed below in order to learn more about the various companies and products discussed in this podcast. Hims Magnisight Victor Reader Stream Ambutech Bookshare AI Squared Canon Seeking your opinion: should Serotek Start a newsletter? Complete Serotek’s survey for your chance to win an iPad Mini Do you enjoy our SPN Podcasts? You can help us out a whole lot by taking this very short survey. SeroTalk no 1:07:43 SeroTalk Podcast 144: Words Mean Things /2013/03/06/serotalk-podcast-144-words-mean-things/ /2013/03/06/serotalk-podcast-144-words-mean-things/#comments Wed, 06 Mar 2013 15:30:38 +0000 /?p=2251 Continue reading →]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 144: Words Mean Things

While Ricky and Joe were scurrying around at this year’s CSUN conference, gathering excellent interviews for your listening pleasure, Jamie, Lisa and Buddy sat down together and did the podcast thing. We trust that you will enjoy the results of our musings.

CSUN: It Won’t be Hard to Access BARD with the Upcoming iOS App from NLS

Ananse Productions Gets Fancy with Letter Clever for iOS and Android

LookTel VoiceOver Tutorial

Making Zombies, Run! 2 accessible

Netflix Agrees to Caption All Videos by 2014

Solo-DX

What Will Sequestration Mean for People with Disabilities?

Microsoft’s Office 365: Business users’ top questions (and answers)

Amazon launches Cloud Player app for iPad, iPad Mini

As sink Nook sales, so slumps B&N’s fiscal health

Google’s Andy Rubin: ‘No plans’ to open Android stores

iPad Mini to bury 9.7-inch iPad in 2013, says DisplaySearch

iCloud nearly back to normal after early morning outage

Tim Cook doesn’t like Apple’s falling share price, either

iTunes U crosses 1 billion downloads—have you used it?

Prepaid Carrier Could Be Stuck With $100 Million Worth of Unsold iPhones

Bloody well time, Microsoft releases Internet Explorer 10 for Windows 7

Mailbag

From Robert Carter:

Hi,

In podcast 143, Rodny said that 1password did not allow passwords to be stored in the cloud. This is incorrect. 1password uses Dropbox to store an ncrypted database of your passwords. This allows one to access passwords across platForms and from multiple devices.

I have been working with the developers of 1password to make it fully VoiceOver compatible.

Robert Carter

Typed with BrailleTouch

Sent from my iPhone

From Chelsea Cook

Hi Serotalk Team,

Once again, another great, thought-provoking,  and funny podcast! I listen to SPN every week.

I had some general comments about this week’s show. Regarding the rats seeing in different spectrums, I think that is super cool. As a physics and astronomy student, I get asked all the time how I can do astronomy when blind. What people don’t realize is that optical observations account for very little these days; major things happening in the universe  are usually always in spectrums the human eye cannot process anyway. Once viewed from this perspective, people seem to think it is the coolest thing ever. But imagine if I could look into the night sky and see in a different spectrum than my sighted peers? What do you mean, you can’t see that X-ray binary?

I think fingerprinting the human voice would make dictation a lot more accurate than it already is. At least for me, the conversations with Siri break down when I am tired.

Technology keeps changing. Like Joe, I really, really want an Apple watch. Imagine breadcrumbing your place in a crowded room with your bag, iPhone neatly tucked away inside? then, when you wanted to come back to your spot, you could tell the watch to locate the phone and play the hot and cold game until both devices had found each other and subsequently your seat? Vibrations? Bluetooth? NFC? These are the reasons I write realistic science fiction; wouldn’t it be cool to see ideas come to life that fifty years ago were just dreams? And still no hover car as of yet. Darn!

Regards,

Chelsea

PS. You guys should start a “shownotes book list.” I can never remember all your recommendations 🙁

From Michael

Dear SeroTalk land,

I am an avid listener who hails from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.

Regarding Podcast 142 on what Ricky mentioned; I find it fascinating how Apple once used unreliable voiceprint technology in Mac OS 9.2 as an account login option, than compared to the technology now days being used for Dictation and Siri.

Alos, I don’t know if people are aware of the iOS app called “Braille Pad” (student or pro). Even though I haven’t had the opportunity to try it myself, I believe it allows six key entry via keyboard and I’m not sure about touch input. I encourage other visually impaired/blind iOS users to give it a try.

However, I am familiar with the Mac version of it, which is called “Braille Writer” (student or pro). Braille Writer Pro makes a descent substitution for Perky Duck on a Mac, but found it currently incompatible with VoiceOver navigation.

 

Anyways, that is all I wanted to say and hope this is somewhat interesting.

Great job with the podcasting and am looking forward to hearing next week’s episode.

From Michael

————————-

P.S.    I tried to leave an iReport from my iPad, but couldn’t find an Info button, or any other button to create and submit a report, otherwise I would have loved to talk about what I wrote.

Michael’s World

Visually Impaired Student

www.mts.net/~wefour

From James Mannion

Hi everyone,

I really enjoy many of the podcasts on SPN including both That Android show and Triple Click Home. I listened to Serotalk 143 and really appreciated Mike’s comments concerning the horrable inconsiderate selfish Samsung suit. I completely agreed with Mike’s assessment, but find myself looking for anything if there is truly something to go on at this point that gives us reason to be confident that they are not going to have success either there and then here in the US or launch the same thing in the US with or without their success in Germany. Yes it is wrong on every moral and technical level when you consider that the end result they are asking for is for Apple not to be allowed to provide us access and possibly for no one to be able to. Do we necessarily have confidence that judges care about that though. I use my phone for a lot every day and it makes me sick to think that maybe just around the cornor Samsung is going to be taking that away from me in their own selfish inconsiderate persuit of more billions of dollars. I also understand that they are just using us as a pon in that persuit as well. I find myself quite concerned about it wishing I had reason to be confident it is dead and put in its rightful place.

Jim

Another email from James Mannion

Hi,

I have a speaker recommendation for Mike Calvo to check out and review. They are the Vanatoo Transparent one speakers. They are sold on amazon and on their own site, http://www.vanatoo.com/ I have been using them for a while now as computer speakers and I also have an airport express hooked up to them as well for airplay streaming. I would give them a 9 out of 10 for sound for sure. They have numerous connectivity options that prove very convenient. They look fantastic. I sold my Bose Companion 20 speakers after coming across these in a store and buying them that day. The Bose sounded pretty good some of the time, other than when something was playing that hit on that 60 hz bass hump they had and if you could ignore their constant club echo sound. Yes the bose companion 20 sounded amazing for their size, but I didn’t care they were smaller than they could have been and those sound characteristics took something away from them. You might want to check out these Vanatoo speakers. They are pretty cool.

Roundabout

Why Did Bach Go Blind?

Virtual boy teaches autistic children social skills

Blindness not stopping ex-cop

Recommended Reading

As promised, here is a link to the excellent book Beethoven’s Hair by Russell Martin that Jamie mentioned during our Roundabout segment.

Do you enjoy our SPN Podcasts? You can help us out a whole lot by taking this very short survey.

]]> /2013/03/06/serotalk-podcast-144-words-mean-things/feed/ 1 SeroSpectives: This Year in Assistive Tech for 2012 /2013/01/04/serospectives-this-year-in-assistive-tech-for-2012/ /2013/01/04/serospectives-this-year-in-assistive-tech-for-2012/#comments Fri, 04 Jan 2013 15:19:12 +0000 /?p=2092 Continue reading →]]> Listen to SeroSpectives: This Year in Assistive Tech for 2012

Replay the Accessible Event archive of the show

It took three hours and seven people putting their heads together, but we succeeded in counting down the top ten stories of 2012 as compiled by the Blind Bargains team. We even managed to throw in a few extra stories along the way. Here’s how we did it:

The Panel

Joe Steinkamp is cohost of the SeroTalk Podcast

Follow him on Twitter

Jason Meddaugh is a cofounder of BlindBargains.com,

one of the most popular deals and news websites for the blind and visually impaired. He also manages A T Guys,

                        a website featuring low-cost tech gadgets and accessories. He is also a cohost on That Android Show.

Follow him on Twitter

Pratik Patel

is the President and CEO of EZFire, a firm dedicated to promoting usability and accessibility to devices, web sites, software, and other electronic material. He is the current chair of the Information Access committee for the American Council of the Blind

and serves as the President of ACB’s New York affiliate. His background includes legislation, access to assistive technologies, accessible books and other instructional material as well as many different forms of new devices. His Recent efforts include the implementation of the 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act, which includes accessibility to videos, interfaces to televisions, DVR’s, and other mobile software and devices.

Jamie Pauls

Producer and host of the SeroTalk Podcast

plays keyboard professionally, and has shared the stage several times with current X Factor winner Tate Stevens. He is a music therapist who has worked with both the elderly and children, and teaches a music Appreciation class one evening a week at a community college. In the current setting, he is best known for his work as Content Director for Serotek

and the SeroTalk Podcast Network.

Steve Sawczyn

is host of SeroSpectives

Léonie Watson is Director of Accessibility at Nomensa, and Chair of the British Computer Association of the Blind. She works with companies around the world to create and implement digital inclusion strategies, and she’s a W3C invited expert working on HTML5 accessibility. Léonie is one quarter of the AccessTalk podcast

 (which is really just a good excuse to get together and chat about technology). According to her Twitter profile she’s also a screen reader user, book addict and tequila drinker, although you know what they say about things you read on the internet! Follow her on Twitter,

visit her website,

or send her E-mail.

Wade Wingler

is the Director of Assistive Technology with the INDATA Project at Easter Seals Crossroads

in Indiana, and was instrumental in starting Assistive Technology Radio.

The Stories

10. 10 Windows Phone still with No Access

Win Super Site

Link to SeroTalk 129 where we discuss how a Microsoft Surface Phone would fix the issue of Windows Phone 8

9. Amazon Adds Accessibility to some Kindle Models, but falls short

Amazon home page

Link to SeroTalk 135 where we revisit this issue on the week that NFB protests amazon.

8. iPad Refreshed Twice, iPad Mini Added

iPad home page

Link to SPN Mobile Special where we talk about the iPad Mini and iPad 4 in depth.

7. Focus 14 Braille Display Released, Focus 40 Refreshed

Focus page

Link to our interview with Freedom Scientific on the Focus 14, and more, from our coverage of the blinded Veterans Association National Convention

6. GWConnect Updated, causes debate with ad-supported model

GW Micro page

Accessible Event

System Access with Windows 8

Accessibility Anywhere

5. Panasonic Announces Line of 30 UK Televisions with Text-to-speech Capabilities

4. NVDA Releases Several major Updates

NVDA Home Page

3. iPhone 5 released

iPhone home page

Link to SPN’s Triple Click Home for news on all things Apple

2. Nexus 7 and Android 4.1 include major accessibility changes

Link to That Android Show on the Nexus 7

Exoskeletons for people with spinal cord injuries:

iOS Guided Access

Livescribe Smartpen

National Association of the Deaf vs Netflix

Robots for kids with autism

1. Fleksy Blends Assistive Tech and Mainstream Simplicity

]]> /2013/01/04/serospectives-this-year-in-assistive-tech-for-2012/feed/ 2 Listen to SeroSpectives: This Year in Assistive Tech for 2012 - Replay the Accessible Event archive of the show - It took three hours and seven people putting their heads together, but we succeeded in counting down the top ten stories of 2012 as comp... Listen to SeroSpectives: This Year in Assistive Tech for 2012 Replay the Accessible Event archive of the show It took three hours and seven people putting their heads together, but we succeeded in counting down the top ten stories of 2012 as compiled by the Blind Bargains team. We even managed to throw in a few extra stories along the way. Here’s how we did it: The Panel Joe Steinkamp is cohost of the SeroTalk Podcast Follow him on Twitter Jason Meddaugh is a cofounder of BlindBargains.com, one of the most popular deals and news websites for the blind and visually impaired. He also manages A T Guys,                         a website featuring low-cost tech gadgets and accessories. He is also a cohost on That Android Show. Follow him on Twitter Pratik Patel is the President and CEO of EZFire, a firm dedicated to promoting usability and accessibility to devices, web sites, software, and other electronic material. He is the current chair of the Information Access committee for the American Council of the Blind and serves as the President of ACB’s New York affiliate. His background includes legislation, access to assistive technologies, accessible books and other instructional material as well as many different forms of new devices. His Recent efforts include the implementation of the 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act, which includes accessibility to videos, interfaces to televisions, DVR’s, and other mobile software and devices. Jamie Pauls Producer and host of the SeroTalk Podcast plays keyboard professionally, and has shared the stage several times with current X Factor winner Tate Stevens. He is a music therapist who has worked with both the elderly and children, and teaches a music Appreciation class one evening a week at a community college. In the current setting, he is best known for his work as Content Director for Serotek and the SeroTalk Podcast Network. Steve Sawczyn is host of SeroSpectives Léonie Watson is Director of Accessibility at Nomensa, and Chair of the British Computer Association of the Blind. She works with companies around the world to create and implement digital inclusion strategies, and she’s a W3C invited expert working on HTML5 accessibility. Léonie is one quarter of the AccessTalk podcast  (which is really just a good excuse to get together and chat about technology). According to her Twitter profile she’s also a screen reader user, book addict and tequila drinker, although you know what they say about things you read on the internet! Follow her on Twitter, visit her website, or send her E-mail. Wade Wingler is the Director of Assistive Technology with the INDATA Project at Easter Seals Crossroads in Indiana, and was instrumental in starting Assistive Technology Radio. The Stories 10. 10 Windows Phone still with No Access Win Super Site Link to SeroTalk 129 where we discuss how a Microsoft Surface Phone would fix the issue of Windows Phone 8 9. Amazon Adds Accessibility to some Kindle Models, but falls short Amazon home page Link to SeroTalk 135 where we revisit this issue on the week that NFB protests amazon. 8. iPad Refreshed Twice, iPad Mini Added iPad home page Link to SPN Mobile Special where we talk about the iPad Mini and iPad 4 in depth. 7. Focus 14 Braille Display Released, Focus 40 Refreshed Focus page Link to our interview with Freedom Scientific on the Focus 14, and more, from our coverage of the blinded Veterans Association National Convention 6. GWConnect Updated, causes debate with ad-supported model GW Micro page Accessible Event System Access with Windows 8 Accessibility Anywhere 5. Panasonic Announces Line of 30 UK Televisions with Text-to-speech Capabilities 4. NVDA Releases Several major Updates NVDA Home Page 3. iPhone 5 released iPhone home page Link to SPN’s Triple Click Home for news on all things Apple 2. SeroTalk no 3:01:02 SeroTalk Podcast 135: Chock Full of Christmas Cheer /2012/12/19/serotalk-podcast-135-chock-full-of-christmas-cheer/ /2012/12/19/serotalk-podcast-135-chock-full-of-christmas-cheer/#comments Wed, 19 Dec 2012 14:04:16 +0000 /?p=2076 Continue reading →]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 135: Chock Full of Christmas Cheer

On this, our final news-related episode of the year, Jamie, Ricky and Joe settle in to discuss the top stories of the week. Then, Jamie visits with Brian Fishler of Laugh for Sight about Gotham Comedy Radio, a new podcast being launched in conjunction with the SeroTalk Podcast Network.

Listen to Legendary Comedian Robert Klein on the first episode of Gotham Comedy Radio

This is the unedited podcast. The edited version will be coming soon.

Will Kindle E-Books Leave Blind Students Behind?

Amazon, Why Do You Keep Burning Blind Readers?

Amazon Books for All Accessibility Protest

our latest SPN Mobile special: Scratching the Surface with Mike Calvo

An Accessibility Review of the Kindle 3

Kindle Fire: Down in Flames!

podcast 79: What’s Up Happy Rants

Brand new Tech Doctor podcast entitled: Accessible Books

Amazon Instant Video App

Draconis Entertainment Releases Their First Mac Audio Game for the Visually Impaired

FamilyConnect Holiday Guide to Toys, Games, and Gadgets for Children Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired

Braille Sonar for iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad on the iTunes App Store

The must have accessible apps for blind android users

Code Factory releases new mobile Accessibility

Braille typewriters get a digital-era update

THE IMPORTANCE OF BRAILLE LITERACY

Facebook now has a dedicated accessibility page

Facebook voting is gone, but privacy issues just get worse

Google CEO Larry Page talks Apple, Android monetization and an eventual Motorola Nexus device

In bringing Office to iOS, Microsoft is playing a dangerous game

Microsoft Surface vs. Google Nexus: The numbers don’t tell the whole story

Microsoft: Surface Tablet to Debut in Retail Stores Soon

Redbox Challenges Netflix With $6 a Month Streaming Service

The future of television has arrived: it’s called the iPad

Apple Could Acquire Navigation Partner TomTom To Fix Maps [Analyst]

CNET 100

Roundabout

Tape runs out for Sony’s portable cassette recorders

]]> /2012/12/19/serotalk-podcast-135-chock-full-of-christmas-cheer/feed/ 1 Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 135: Chock Full of Christmas Cheer - On this, our final news-related episode of the year, Jamie, Ricky and Joe settle in to discuss the top stories of the week. Then, Jamie visits with Brian Fishler of Laugh for Sight about ... Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 135: Chock Full of Christmas Cheer On this, our final news-related episode of the year, Jamie, Ricky and Joe settle in to discuss the top stories of the week. Then, Jamie visits with Brian Fishler of Laugh for Sight about Gotham Comedy Radio, a new podcast being launched in conjunction with the SeroTalk Podcast Network. Listen to Legendary Comedian Robert Klein on the first episode of Gotham Comedy Radio This is the unedited podcast. The edited version will be coming soon. Will Kindle E-Books Leave Blind Students Behind? Amazon, Why Do You Keep Burning Blind Readers? Amazon Books for All Accessibility Protest our latest SPN Mobile special: Scratching the Surface with Mike Calvo An Accessibility Review of the Kindle 3 Kindle Fire: Down in Flames! podcast 79: What's Up Happy Rants Brand new Tech Doctor podcast entitled: Accessible Books Amazon Instant Video App Draconis Entertainment Releases Their First Mac Audio Game for the Visually Impaired FamilyConnect Holiday Guide to Toys, Games, and Gadgets for Children Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired Braille Sonar for iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad on the iTunes App Store The must have accessible apps for blind android users Code Factory releases new mobile Accessibility Braille typewriters get a digital-era update THE IMPORTANCE OF BRAILLE LITERACY Facebook now has a dedicated accessibility page Facebook voting is gone, but privacy issues just get worse Google CEO Larry Page talks Apple, Android monetization and an eventual Motorola Nexus device In bringing Office to iOS, Microsoft is playing a dangerous game Microsoft Surface vs. Google Nexus: The numbers don't tell the whole story Microsoft: Surface Tablet to Debut in Retail Stores Soon Redbox Challenges Netflix With $6 a Month Streaming Service The future of television has arrived: it's called the iPad Apple Could Acquire Navigation Partner TomTom To Fix Maps [Analyst] CNET 100 Roundabout Tape runs out for Sony's portable cassette recorders SeroTalk no 1:31:30 SeroTalk Podcast 134: The Cheese Stands Alone /2012/12/11/serotalk-podcast-134-the-cheese-stands-alone/ /2012/12/11/serotalk-podcast-134-the-cheese-stands-alone/#comments Tue, 11 Dec 2012 11:54:27 +0000 /?p=2068 Continue reading →]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 134: The Cheese Stands Alone

Welcome back to another episode of the SeroTalk Podcast. Jamie Pauls, Lisa Salinger and Joe Steinkamp have a lot to discuss this week, so let’s jump right into the stories covered on this episode.

National Federation of the Blind Condemns Amazon’s Push to Put Kindle E-books in Schools

Amazon making Kindle Fire more accessible via voice, touch controls

Blind Bargains: An Apology, and the Announcement of 2011 Blind Bargains Access Award Winners

Window-Eyes 8.0 Now Available!

★ iWork for iOS Apps Updated with Improved Accessibility

iPhone VoiceOver Function For People With Disabilities

iPhone vs. Android: One Year Later | Joe Orozco

The advantages of owning an iPad

Tim Cook Explains The Biggest Changes He’s Made To Apple After Steve Jobs

Apple to begin manufacturing some Macs in the U.S.

T-Mobile CEO: Our iPhone experience will be ‘dramatically different’

T-Mobile to end smartphone subsidies next year

Surface sales may exceed 1M in Q4, says researcher

Microsoft’s Android bashing campaign goes down in flames as #WindowsRage trends

Why don’t computer users take passwords seriously?

Twitter SMS bug lets hackers tweet via other users’ accounts

The skinny on Netflix-Disney deal (FAQ)

Roundabout

Apple Promises To Fix iOS 6 Maps For Christmas By Physically Altering Planet Earth [Humor]

Building a sensitive robot, and perhaps a future politician?

]]> /2012/12/11/serotalk-podcast-134-the-cheese-stands-alone/feed/ 2 Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 134: The Cheese Stands Alone - Welcome back to another episode of the SeroTalk Podcast. Jamie Pauls, Lisa Salinger and Joe Steinkamp have a lot to discuss this week, so let’s jump right into the stories covered on this episo... Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 134: The Cheese Stands Alone Welcome back to another episode of the SeroTalk Podcast. Jamie Pauls, Lisa Salinger and Joe Steinkamp have a lot to discuss this week, so let’s jump right into the stories covered on this episode. National Federation of the Blind Condemns Amazon's Push to Put Kindle E-books in Schools Amazon making Kindle Fire more accessible via voice, touch controls Blind Bargains: An Apology, and the Announcement of 2011 Blind Bargains Access Award Winners Window-Eyes 8.0 Now Available! ★ iWork for iOS Apps Updated with Improved Accessibility iPhone VoiceOver Function For People With Disabilities iPhone vs. Android: One Year Later | Joe Orozco The advantages of owning an iPad Tim Cook Explains The Biggest Changes He's Made To Apple After Steve Jobs Apple to begin manufacturing some Macs in the U.S. T-Mobile CEO: Our iPhone experience will be 'dramatically different' T-Mobile to end smartphone subsidies next year Surface sales may exceed 1M in Q4, says researcher Microsoft's Android bashing campaign goes down in flames as #WindowsRage trends Why don’t computer users take passwords seriously? Twitter SMS bug lets hackers tweet via other users' accounts The skinny on Netflix-Disney deal (FAQ) Roundabout Apple Promises To Fix iOS 6 Maps For Christmas By Physically Altering Planet Earth [Humor] Building a sensitive robot, and perhaps a future politician? SeroTalk no 1:15:50 SeroSpectives: This Month in Tech for November /2012/12/10/serospectives-this-month-in-tech-for-november/ Mon, 10 Dec 2012 12:39:46 +0000 /?p=2064 Continue reading →]]> Listen to This Month in Tech for November

Replay the Accessible Event archive of the program

Microsoft

Windows 8: 4 Million Sold in First 3 Days

Windows 8/RT touch interface confuses, frustrates early users

SPN Special: Windows 8

Microsoft confirms Windows Live Messenger retirement in favor of Skype

Why Microsoft’s Tablet Can’t Fail

Windows RT 32GB tablets actually only have 16GB of usable space nullifying storage cost advantage over iPad

Apple

iPad mini and iPad 4: Apple has muddied the waters

iPad Mini review:  The perfect size, but at a price

4th Gen iPad’s A6X Processor Makes It More Than Twice As Fast As Its Predecessor

Third-gen iPad owners: does the fourth-gen iPad irk you?

Apple releases iTunes 11 with “dramatically simplified user interface

Android

SPN Mobile Special: Scratching the Surface with Mike Calvo

Meet Android 4.2

Access Tech

ACB Radio Tuner Version 7 has been published

NBBA 2012 World Series Championship Game Audio

Syntellia raises $900K for its Fleksy keyboard, headed to more platforms

Barnes and Noble’s iPhone App Gets VoiceOver And Zoom Accessibility

Everything you ever wanted to know about iMessage – in a braille booklet

BANA Adopts UEB

2012 SPN Holiday Review Special

Contacting Our Guests

Send an email to Myrna Votta

Follow Shane Jackson on Twitter

Send an email to Shane Jackson

Follow Lisa Salinger on Twitter

Follow SeroSpectives on Twitter

 

]]> Listen to This Month in Tech for November - Replay the Accessible Event archive of the program - Microsoft - Windows 8: 4 Million Sold in First 3 Days - Windows 8/RT touch interface confuses, frustrates early users - SPN Special: Windows 8 - Listen to This Month in Tech for November Replay the Accessible Event archive of the program Microsoft Windows 8: 4 Million Sold in First 3 Days Windows 8/RT touch interface confuses, frustrates early users SPN Special: Windows 8 Microsoft confirms Windows Live Messenger retirement in favor of Skype Why Microsoft's Tablet Can't Fail Windows RT 32GB tablets actually only have 16GB of usable space nullifying storage cost advantage over iPad Apple iPad mini and iPad 4: Apple has muddied the waters iPad Mini review:  The perfect size, but at a price 4th Gen iPad’s A6X Processor Makes It More Than Twice As Fast As Its Predecessor Third-gen iPad owners: does the fourth-gen iPad irk you? Apple releases iTunes 11 with "dramatically simplified user interface Android SPN Mobile Special: Scratching the Surface with Mike Calvo Meet Android 4.2 Access Tech ACB Radio Tuner Version 7 has been published NBBA 2012 World Series Championship Game Audio Syntellia raises $900K for its Fleksy keyboard, headed to more platforms Barnes and Noble’s iPhone App Gets VoiceOver And Zoom Accessibility Everything you ever wanted to know about iMessage - in a braille booklet BANA Adopts UEB 2012 SPN Holiday Review Special Contacting Our Guests Send an email to Myrna Votta Follow Shane Jackson on Twitter Send an email to Shane Jackson Follow Lisa Salinger on Twitter Follow SeroSpectives on Twitter   SeroTalk no 1:14:21 SeroTalk Podcast 133: In Happier News /2012/12/05/serotalk-podcast-133-in-happier-news/ /2012/12/05/serotalk-podcast-133-in-happier-news/#comments Wed, 05 Dec 2012 12:10:16 +0000 /?p=2054 Continue reading →]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 133: In Happier News

After a bit of an absence, Jamie, Ricky and Joe are back with another podcast. Did you miss us? We decided to let the rest of the Serotek team have their say with our 2012 SPN holiday review special. In addition to our holiday review special, Ricky Enger, Mike Calvo and Joe Steinkamp sat down to discuss the current state of mobile accessibility in our latest SPN Mobile special: Scratching the Surface with Mike Calvo.

In SeroTalk Podcast 133, we discuss the top news of the week. Then, Jamie Pauls sits down with Dennis of Aftershokz to discuss the company’s latest generation of bone conduction headphones. And now, it’s time for the news!

Syria suffers Internet ‘blackout’; cut off from the outside world

Apple releases iTunes 11 with “dramatically simplified user interface”

Analyst: Apple’s iPad 4 is not selling well. Why? Blame the Mini

iPod Creator: Scott Forstall ‘Got What He Deserved’

Apple SVP Eddy Cue Fires Richard Williamson For Botching Apple Maps

Report: Apple bumps Android from top spot in U.S. smartphone market on strength of iPhone 5

Apple Sold 11 iPads Per Hour On Black Friday While Microsoft Sold Zero Surface Tablets

Windows 8 off to a slow start with consumers in month one, says NPD

Pricing for Microsoft’s Surface Pro Revealed; $899 for 64GB, $999 for 128GB

RIM’s Stock Up 55% in Past 30 Days on BlackBerry 10 Optimism

AT&T is the worst-rated wireless carrier for the third year in a row, according to Consumer Reports

Google+ chief: Facebook is the social network of the past

Like it or not, nonreplaceable CPUs may be the future of desktops

Every computer term you’ve ever wanted to know, explained in our tech dictionary:

Barnes And Noble’s Nook App Gets VoiceOver And Zoom Accessibility

Everything you ever wanted to know about iMessage – in a braille booklet

New Podcast: YouPlayer: Not Just Another YouTube App for iOS … it’s one that Claims Full VoiceOverSupport!

Navigating the Windows8 Start screen with the Keyboard

Mailbag

Blog comment from Jim

Hi guys,

I thought you’d be interested in something for your next podcast. You can have fun testing it out. For all you smart phone and tablet users, especially I-Devices, I thought you’d get a kick out of a cool update to the Google Search app. Some of you may be familiar with Apple’s Siri voice app. Google is going to give Siri a Siri-ous run for its money! I’ve had fun playing with this app and comparing the two.

Roundabout

Smart specs may replace guide dogs

the voice behind Siri (interview with Kerin Jacobson)

]]> /2012/12/05/serotalk-podcast-133-in-happier-news/feed/ 1 Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 133: In Happier News - After a bit of an absence, Jamie, Ricky and Joe are back with another podcast. Did you miss us? We decided to let the rest of the Serotek team have their say with our 2012 SPN holiday review special. Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 133: In Happier News After a bit of an absence, Jamie, Ricky and Joe are back with another podcast. Did you miss us? We decided to let the rest of the Serotek team have their say with our 2012 SPN holiday review special. In addition to our holiday review special, Ricky Enger, Mike Calvo and Joe Steinkamp sat down to discuss the current state of mobile accessibility in our latest SPN Mobile special: Scratching the Surface with Mike Calvo. In SeroTalk Podcast 133, we discuss the top news of the week. Then, Jamie Pauls sits down with Dennis of Aftershokz to discuss the company’s latest generation of bone conduction headphones. And now, it’s time for the news! Syria suffers Internet 'blackout'; cut off from the outside world Apple releases iTunes 11 with "dramatically simplified user interface" Analyst: Apple's iPad 4 is not selling well. Why? Blame the Mini iPod Creator: Scott Forstall 'Got What He Deserved' Apple SVP Eddy Cue Fires Richard Williamson For Botching Apple Maps Report: Apple bumps Android from top spot in U.S. smartphone market on strength of iPhone 5 Apple Sold 11 iPads Per Hour On Black Friday While Microsoft Sold Zero Surface Tablets Windows 8 off to a slow start with consumers in month one, says NPD Pricing for Microsoft's Surface Pro Revealed; $899 for 64GB, $999 for 128GB RIM's Stock Up 55% in Past 30 Days on BlackBerry 10 Optimism AT&T is the worst-rated wireless carrier for the third year in a row, according to Consumer Reports Google+ chief: Facebook is the social network of the past Like it or not, nonreplaceable CPUs may be the future of desktops Every computer term you've ever wanted to know, explained in our tech dictionary: Barnes And Noble's Nook App Gets VoiceOver And Zoom Accessibility Everything you ever wanted to know about iMessage - in a braille booklet New Podcast: YouPlayer: Not Just Another YouTube App for iOS ... it's one that Claims Full VoiceOverSupport! Navigating the Windows8 Start screen with the Keyboard Mailbag Blog comment from Jim Hi guys, I thought you’d be interested in something for your next podcast. You can have fun testing it out. For all you smart phone and tablet users, especially I-Devices, I thought you’d get a kick out of a cool update to the Google Search app. Some of you may be familiar with Apple’s Siri voice app. Google is going to give Siri a Siri-ous run for its money! I’ve had fun playing with this app and comparing the two. Roundabout Smart specs may replace guide dogs the voice behind Siri (interview with Kerin Jacobson) SeroTalk no 1:23:19 SeroTalk Podcast 132: When Braille Strikes Back /2012/11/12/serotalk-podcast-132-when-braille-strikes-back/ /2012/11/12/serotalk-podcast-132-when-braille-strikes-back/#comments Mon, 12 Nov 2012 13:56:41 +0000 /?p=2027 Continue reading →]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 132: When Braille Strikes Back

Welcome to yet another edition of the SeroTalk Podcast where Jamie Pauls, Lisa Salinger and Buddy Brannan sit down to discuss the top news stories of the week. Items covered in this week’s podcast include:

How an Indonesian ISP took down the mighty Google for 30 minutes

Obama faces piracy, privacy tests in his second term

Pirate Cinema by Cory Doctorow

Little Brother by Cory Doctorow

Microsoft’s Surface a balloting device in one precinct in Virginia

Why you can’t vote with your iPhone: There may be an app for it, but there isn’t an appetite

Amazon Prime give and take: get monthly payment option, pay more

New Tech Doctor podcast “Amazon Kindle Accessibility” featuring Lisa Salinger and Allison Hartley

Borrowing Books with Kindle and Prime by Lisa Salinger

Windows 8 may be ‘safer’, but you’re still not buying it

Report: Microsoft Office for iOS, Android could debut early next year

Microsoft Office for iOS, Android to have Office 365 subscription tie-in: Report

Microsoft confirms Windows Live Messenger retirement in favor of Skype

Windows RT 32GB tablets actually only have 16GB of usable space nullifying storage cost advantage over iPad

Surface with Windows RT is No PC Replacement

Taking Surface to Work

5 Reasons Why Apple’s Stock is Tanking

iPad-controlled street lights coming to London

Apple, publishers cut e-book deal with EU regulators – report

BANA Adopts UEB

Window-Eyes 8.0 Beta 2 Now Available

Roundabout

Climbing 103 Floors On a ‘Bionic’ Leg

After Paralysis, Blind Man Takes 1st Steps with Robotic Suit:

 

]]> /2012/11/12/serotalk-podcast-132-when-braille-strikes-back/feed/ 1 Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 132: When Braille Strikes Back - Welcome to yet another edition of the SeroTalk Podcast where Jamie Pauls, Lisa Salinger and Buddy Brannan sit down to discuss the top news stories of the week. Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 132: When Braille Strikes Back Welcome to yet another edition of the SeroTalk Podcast where Jamie Pauls, Lisa Salinger and Buddy Brannan sit down to discuss the top news stories of the week. Items covered in this week’s podcast include: How an Indonesian ISP took down the mighty Google for 30 minutes Obama faces piracy, privacy tests in his second term Pirate Cinema by Cory Doctorow Little Brother by Cory Doctorow Microsoft's Surface a balloting device in one precinct in Virginia Why you can’t vote with your iPhone: There may be an app for it, but there isn’t an appetite Amazon Prime give and take: get monthly payment option, pay more New Tech Doctor podcast "Amazon Kindle Accessibility" featuring Lisa Salinger and Allison Hartley Borrowing Books with Kindle and Prime by Lisa Salinger Windows 8 may be 'safer', but you're still not buying it Report: Microsoft Office for iOS, Android could debut early next year Microsoft Office for iOS, Android to have Office 365 subscription tie-in: Report Microsoft confirms Windows Live Messenger retirement in favor of Skype Windows RT 32GB tablets actually only have 16GB of usable space nullifying storage cost advantage over iPad Surface with Windows RT is No PC Replacement Taking Surface to Work 5 Reasons Why Apple's Stock is Tanking iPad-controlled street lights coming to London Apple, publishers cut e-book deal with EU regulators – report BANA Adopts UEB Window-Eyes 8.0 Beta 2 Now Available Roundabout Climbing 103 Floors On a 'Bionic' Leg After Paralysis, Blind Man Takes 1st Steps with Robotic Suit:   SeroTalk no 53:05 SeroTalk Podcast 130: ChromeOver /2012/10/30/serotalk-podcast-130-chromeover/ /2012/10/30/serotalk-podcast-130-chromeover/#comments Tue, 30 Oct 2012 16:14:46 +0000 /?p=2015 Continue reading →]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 130: ChromeOver

This week, Ricky Enger, Buddy Brannan and Joe Steinkamp sit down to discuss the top news stories of the week. Topics discussed in this episode of the podcast include:

Conflicted: The tension in Windows 8

Why Microsoft’s Tablet Can’t Fail

Microsoft Surface RT Review

Window-Eyes 8.0 Beta 1 is Now Available!

Jaws v14 screen reader has been released

MAGic version 12 has been released!

Dotris: A computer game for Braille displays

Blog post: Notes for musicians, vocalists and recording engineers

iPad mini and iPad 4: Apple has muddied the waters

iPad mini: Why Tim Cook’s Apple is a better company than the one Steve Jobs left behind.

Third-gen iPad owners: does the fourth-gen iPad irk you?

Apple’s new iMac will boost ailing desktop division, analyst says

Apple unveils updated Mac Mini desktops

Apple MacBook Pro with Retina Display

Mailbag

Blog posts

bubba says:       

October 24, 2012 at 11:50 am     

hi, she was saying that she had to replace her thermostat and just wondering if she got a talking thermostat? If she did not I think she should check out http://www.talkingthermostats.com/blind.shtml

Marc Baillargeon (pronounced buy are jon) says:            

October 19, 2012 at 3:35 pm       

Just wanted to take a sec to comment on your previous podcast and especially the maps in IOS6. I am in Edmonton, Alberta Canada and my experience has been that at least here the maps work really well when asking for directions or specific routes; as a matter of fact I was talking to a sighted fellow just the other day who hunts at this time of the year about 90 miles west of edmonton. To hunt of course you have to get off the main highway on to side roads which in our neck of the woods are called forestry trunk roads. These roads each have a number designation such as forestry trunk road 145 and they are basically cow paths into the woods where people would go hunt. This guy was so impressed as Apple maps actually had the correct number designations on them so he was able to drop off his buddy on one and then proceed to the one he wanted to get to without difficulty whereas previously with the google maps they were of no use and since all the roads looked the same it took time to find the right ones–he was so impressed with this feature of IOS 6 on his Iphone 4 no less.

Could you guys talk about twitter at some point and accessing it with system access directly or with easychirp? i have found easychirp quite simple to use but can you do it directly with some practice or is easychirp the best thing out there for now on a computer.

Also is serotek planning down the road to put the capability of a pronunciation dictionary into the software; also in some instances I would prefer numbers to be read off individually and not as whole numbers–is this a possibility?

Lastly XM Satelite Radio both in Canada and the US has come out with a new player and if you’re not a subscriber you can get, I believe a two week trial. I am a subscriber and am having a hell of a time trying to figure out and/or access the player; frankly a real pain in the ass for which I’m paying 4.99 extra. It does work fine with the XM app or the IPhone or IPad though.

keep up the great work and why don’t you guys arrange something with the CNIB up here in Edmonton and come up for a visit sometime; we always hear about the American conventions but what about us poor canadians, eh?

All the best!

Marc Baillargeon Edmonton, Alberta Canada

Roundabout

Children’s Media Usage Skyrockets During Past Year [STUDY]

Where do most people accidentally destroy their iPhone?

Japan Develops Smartphone Application That Sends Smells

How the Blind Run Marathons

]]> /2012/10/30/serotalk-podcast-130-chromeover/feed/ 2 Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 130: ChromeOver - This week, Ricky Enger, Buddy Brannan and Joe Steinkamp sit down to discuss the top news stories of the week. Topics discussed in this episode of the podcast include: - Conflicted: The tension in Windows 8 Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 130: ChromeOver This week, Ricky Enger, Buddy Brannan and Joe Steinkamp sit down to discuss the top news stories of the week. Topics discussed in this episode of the podcast include: Conflicted: The tension in Windows 8 Why Microsoft's Tablet Can't Fail Microsoft Surface RT Review Window-Eyes 8.0 Beta 1 is Now Available! Jaws v14 screen reader has been released MAGic version 12 has been released! Dotris: A computer game for Braille displays Blog post: Notes for musicians, vocalists and recording engineers iPad mini and iPad 4: Apple has muddied the waters iPad mini: Why Tim Cook’s Apple is a better company than the one Steve Jobs left behind. Third-gen iPad owners: does the fourth-gen iPad irk you? Apple's new iMac will boost ailing desktop division, analyst says Apple unveils updated Mac Mini desktops Apple MacBook Pro with Retina Display Mailbag Blog posts bubba says:        October 24, 2012 at 11:50 am      hi, she was saying that she had to replace her thermostat and just wondering if she got a talking thermostat? If she did not I think she should check out http://www.talkingthermostats.com/blind.shtml Marc Baillargeon (pronounced buy are jon) says:             October 19, 2012 at 3:35 pm        Just wanted to take a sec to comment on your previous podcast and especially the maps in IOS6. I am in Edmonton, Alberta Canada and my experience has been that at least here the maps work really well when asking for directions or specific routes; as a matter of fact I was talking to a sighted fellow just the other day who hunts at this time of the year about 90 miles west of edmonton. To hunt of course you have to get off the main highway on to side roads which in our neck of the woods are called forestry trunk roads. These roads each have a number designation such as forestry trunk road 145 and they are basically cow paths into the woods where people would go hunt. This guy was so impressed as Apple maps actually had the correct number designations on them so he was able to drop off his buddy on one and then proceed to the one he wanted to get to without difficulty whereas previously with the google maps they were of no use and since all the roads looked the same it took time to find the right ones–he was so impressed with this feature of IOS 6 on his Iphone 4 no less. Could you guys talk about twitter at some point and accessing it with system access directly or with easychirp? i have found easychirp quite simple to use but can you do it directly with some practice or is easychirp the best thing out there for now on a computer. Also is serotek planning down the road to put the capability of a pronunciation dictionary into the software; also in some instances I would prefer numbers to be read off individually and not as whole numbers–is this a possibility? Lastly XM Satelite Radio both in Canada and the US has come out with a new player and if you’re not a subscriber you can get, I believe a two week trial. I am a subscriber and am having a hell of a time trying to figure out and/or access the player; frankly a real pain in the ass for which I’m paying 4.99 extra. It does work fine with the XM app or the IPhone or IPad though. keep up the great work and why don’t you guys arrange something with the CNIB up here in Edmonton and come up for a visit sometime; we always hear about the American conventions but what about us poor canadians, eh? All the best! Marc Baillargeon Edmonton, Alberta Canada Roundabout Children's Media Usage Skyrockets During Past Year [STUDY] Where do most people accidentally destroy their iPhone? Japan Develops Smartphone Application That Sends Smells How the Blind Run Marathons SeroTalk no 34:33 SPN Special: Mobile Devices /2012/10/01/spn-special-mobile-devices/ Mon, 01 Oct 2012 11:49:51 +0000 /?p=1988 Continue reading →]]> Listen to our SPN Special: Mobile Devices

Mike Calvo is joined by Ricky Enger and Lisa Salinger to discuss the recent mobile device updates as well as current and future trends.

A Look at the Latest in iOS and Android

iPhone 5

Arstechnica Review of iPhone 5

Drop and Durability Test for iPhone 5

iPhone 5 Lightning Adapters to Remain Reassuringly Expensive Courtesy of Authentication Chip

Teardown revives hopes that Lightning might be USB 3.0-compatible

Verizon won’t relock the iPhone 5’s GSM

iOS 6

Maccessibility » A First Look at VoiceOver in iOS 6

Op-ed: iOS 6′s Do Not Disturb and the ring/silent switch

Taking Apple’s Passbook for a real-world spin

How to add almost any gift card to Passbook

Wrong turn: Apple’s buggy iOS 6 maps lead to widespread complaints

Top 10 Secret Features of iOS 6

What can you say to Siri in iOS 6?

Android Jellybean

Google Nexus 7 review

Accessibility Gestures for Android 4.1, Jellybean

Acapela TTS for Android

Siri-ous New Voice Assistant for Android devices

 

]]> Listen to our SPN Special: Mobile Devices - Mike Calvo is joined by Ricky Enger and Lisa Salinger to discuss the recent mobile device updates as well as current and future trends. - A Look at the Latest in iOS and Android iPhone 5 Listen to our SPN Special: Mobile Devices Mike Calvo is joined by Ricky Enger and Lisa Salinger to discuss the recent mobile device updates as well as current and future trends. A Look at the Latest in iOS and Android iPhone 5 Arstechnica Review of iPhone 5 Drop and Durability Test for iPhone 5 iPhone 5 Lightning Adapters to Remain Reassuringly Expensive Courtesy of Authentication Chip Teardown revives hopes that Lightning might be USB 3.0-compatible Verizon won't relock the iPhone 5's GSM iOS 6 Maccessibility » A First Look at VoiceOver in iOS 6 Op-ed: iOS 6′s Do Not Disturb and the ring/silent switch Taking Apple's Passbook for a real-world spin How to add almost any gift card to Passbook Wrong turn: Apple's buggy iOS 6 maps lead to widespread complaints Top 10 Secret Features of iOS 6 What can you say to Siri in iOS 6? Android Jellybean Google Nexus 7 review Accessibility Gestures for Android 4.1, Jellybean Acapela TTS for Android Siri-ous New Voice Assistant for Android devices   SeroTalk no 1:01:47 SeroTalk Podcast 120: A Slow News Week /2012/08/22/serotalk-podcast-120-a-slow-news-week/ Wed, 22 Aug 2012 12:41:34 +0000 /?p=1921 Continue reading →]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 120: A Slow News Week

Welcome back to another episode of the SeroTalk Podcast. Here are the stories that Jamie, Ricky and Joe discuss on this week’s show:

The cloud is still the safest place to be for small-to-medium businesses

Netflix’s new feature makes TV show marathons easier

YouTube Re-Imagined: 505,347,842 Channels on Every Single Screen

Amazon’s 10-inch Kindle Fire caught sailing through FCC certification

RealPlayer for Android exits beta

Windows 8 and Surface: Why has Microsoft gone so quiet?

RIM chief: BlackBerry 10 could be licensed to handset rivals

Apple

Apple Retail Stores Seeing Significant Layoffs of Recent Hires?

Apple is in danger of being boring

Judge urges Apple, Samsung CEOs to talk settlement

iPad Mini? Nah, here comes the iBook

Computers stolen from Steve Jobs’ home

AT

ClaroRead for Mac

Anywhere, Everywhere: That’s Accessibility

iOS or Android for the visually impaired revisited: Jelly Bean or iOS?

Where to go phone app for finding relief areas at airports.

Humanware is offering $200 off of the Trekker Breeze until August 31

Roundabout

Illinois allows mini horses as service animals

Michael Lauf’s ATIA 2011  interview with Cheryl of Jacksonville, Florida about her guide horse

Learn about Serotek’s SAMNet Vets program

London 2012: Isobel’s story – YouTube

Please take this screen reader user survey and help spread the word about System Access.

 

 

]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 120: A Slow News Week - Welcome back to another episode of the SeroTalk Podcast. Here are the stories that Jamie, Ricky and Joe discuss on this week’s show: - The cloud is still the safest place to be for small-to-medium bu... Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 120: A Slow News Week Welcome back to another episode of the SeroTalk Podcast. Here are the stories that Jamie, Ricky and Joe discuss on this week’s show: The cloud is still the safest place to be for small-to-medium businesses Netflix's new feature makes TV show marathons easier YouTube Re-Imagined: 505,347,842 Channels on Every Single Screen Amazon's 10-inch Kindle Fire caught sailing through FCC certification RealPlayer for Android exits beta Windows 8 and Surface: Why has Microsoft gone so quiet? RIM chief: BlackBerry 10 could be licensed to handset rivals Apple Apple Retail Stores Seeing Significant Layoffs of Recent Hires? Apple is in danger of being boring Judge urges Apple, Samsung CEOs to talk settlement iPad Mini? Nah, here comes the iBook Computers stolen from Steve Jobs' home AT ClaroRead for Mac Anywhere, Everywhere: That’s Accessibility iOS or Android for the visually impaired revisited: Jelly Bean or iOS? Where to go phone app for finding relief areas at airports. Humanware is offering $200 off of the Trekker Breeze until August 31 Roundabout Illinois allows mini horses as service animals Michael Lauf’s ATIA 2011  interview with Cheryl of Jacksonville, Florida about her guide horse Learn about Serotek’s SAMNet Vets program London 2012: Isobel's story – YouTube Please take this screen reader user survey and help spread the word about System Access.     SeroTalk no 1:00:51 SeroTalk Podcast 117: My Little Phony /2012/08/01/serotalk-podcast-117-my-little-phony/ Wed, 01 Aug 2012 08:26:24 +0000 /?p=1877 Continue reading →]]> SeroTalk Podcast 117 Show Notes

Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 117: My Little Phony

There was no shortage of topics for Jamie Pauls, Ricky Enger and Joe Steinkamp to discuss on this week’s podcast. We look forward to your reactions to this week’s episode of the show. Stories up for discussion this week include:

Mountain Lion

OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion: the Ars Technica review

Mac Blog: Microsoft Confirms Office 2011 and 2008 Compatibility with OS X Mountain Lion

Why should I, a Windows user, care about Mountain Lion anyway?

Listen to a discussion of Mountain Lion on ACB Radio’s Main Menu

David Woodbridge’s Mountain Lion podcasts from AppleVis available on iBlink Radio.

General Tech

Redbox and Verizon’s Netflix competitor goes into alpha test

4G LTE BlackBerry PlayBook may debut this month

NTP settles e-mail patent suit with Google, Apple, Microsoft and others

Jeff Bezos Hijacks Amazon.com to Announce Education Initiative

Staples Executive Outs Six New Kindle Fire Tablets

Nokia to make carriers partners on Windows Phone, report says

Scott Thompson gets new CEO gig

iOS

New iPod Touch could match taller size of new iPhone

iPad Mini to debut in September, says analyst

Is there really ‘unprecedented’ demand for iPhone 5?

Report: iOS 6 won’t ask for password to download free apps

AT

SPN Special: A Discussion of Windows 8 by Jeremy Curry from NFB 2012

Accessibility gestures for Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean)

Download a free 14 day trial of Georgie online here

Roundabout

Here is a link to RNIB’s new fund-raising ad.

Play your tunes through a toilet

 

]]> SeroTalk Podcast 117 Show Notes - Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 117: My Little Phony - There was no shortage of topics for Jamie Pauls, Ricky Enger and Joe Steinkamp to discuss on this week’s podcast. We look forward to your reactions to this week’s epi... SeroTalk Podcast 117 Show Notes Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 117: My Little Phony There was no shortage of topics for Jamie Pauls, Ricky Enger and Joe Steinkamp to discuss on this week’s podcast. We look forward to your reactions to this week’s episode of the show. Stories up for discussion this week include: Mountain Lion OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion: the Ars Technica review Mac Blog: Microsoft Confirms Office 2011 and 2008 Compatibility with OS X Mountain Lion Why should I, a Windows user, care about Mountain Lion anyway? Listen to a discussion of Mountain Lion on ACB Radio’s Main Menu David Woodbridge’s Mountain Lion podcasts from AppleVis available on iBlink Radio. General Tech Redbox and Verizon's Netflix competitor goes into alpha test 4G LTE BlackBerry PlayBook may debut this month NTP settles e-mail patent suit with Google, Apple, Microsoft and others Jeff Bezos Hijacks Amazon.com to Announce Education Initiative Staples Executive Outs Six New Kindle Fire Tablets Nokia to make carriers partners on Windows Phone, report says Scott Thompson gets new CEO gig iOS New iPod Touch could match taller size of new iPhone iPad Mini to debut in September, says analyst Is there really 'unprecedented' demand for iPhone 5? Report: iOS 6 won't ask for password to download free apps AT SPN Special: A Discussion of Windows 8 by Jeremy Curry from NFB 2012 Accessibility gestures for Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean) Download a free 14 day trial of Georgie online here Roundabout Here is a link to RNIB’s new fund-raising ad. Play your tunes through a toilet   SeroTalk no 1:14:28 Convention 2012 Special Episode 2 /2012/07/25/convention-2012-special-episode-2/ Wed, 25 Jul 2012 14:56:29 +0000 /?p=1861 Continue reading →]]> Listen to Convention 2012 Special Episode 2

Welcome to the second of three specials featuring all of the exciting interviews we brought back from the 2012 ACB and NFB conventions. Please follow the links below to learn more about all of the fascinating companies featured in this show.

AT Guys

Newsreel Magazine

Ebay

Dolphin

Electronic Brailler

Braulio Worldwide

Aroga, Braille Pen

Dots and Dogs

Fleksy

Envision America

Hotel Imporium

Humanware

]]> Listen to Convention 2012 Special Episode 2 - Welcome to the second of three specials featuring all of the exciting interviews we brought back from the 2012 ACB and NFB conventions. Please follow the links below to learn more about all of the fascinat... Listen to Convention 2012 Special Episode 2 Welcome to the second of three specials featuring all of the exciting interviews we brought back from the 2012 ACB and NFB conventions. Please follow the links below to learn more about all of the fascinating companies featured in this show. AT Guys Newsreel Magazine Ebay Dolphin Electronic Brailler Braulio Worldwide Aroga, Braille Pen Dots and Dogs Fleksy Envision America Hotel Imporium Humanware SeroTalk no 51:48 Convention 2012 Special Episode 1 /2012/07/23/convention-2012-special-episode-1/ Mon, 23 Jul 2012 22:05:31 +0000 /?p=1851 Continue reading →]]> Listen to Convention 2012 Special Episode 1

Welcome to the first of three shows featuring all of the great interviews from the ACB and NFB 2012 conventions. You heard them first on SPN Radio. Now you can listen at your leisure. We trust that you will enjoy hearing them as much as we enjoyed bringing them to you. Follow the links below to learn more about all of the companies featured in this episode.

Bookshare

American Printing House for the Blind

Kurzweil 1000

Triumph Technology

National Braille Press

NLS

LookTel

Kapten GPS

 

]]> Listen to Convention 2012 Special Episode 1 - Welcome to the first of three shows featuring all of the great interviews from the ACB and NFB 2012 conventions. You heard them first on SPN Radio. Now you can listen at your leisure. Listen to Convention 2012 Special Episode 1 Welcome to the first of three shows featuring all of the great interviews from the ACB and NFB 2012 conventions. You heard them first on SPN Radio. Now you can listen at your leisure. We trust that you will enjoy hearing them as much as we enjoyed bringing them to you. Follow the links below to learn more about all of the companies featured in this episode. Bookshare American Printing House for the Blind Kurzweil 1000 Triumph Technology National Braille Press NLS LookTel Kapten GPS   SeroTalk no 57:15 SeroTalk Podcast 110: I’m the Mayor of SeroTalk /2012/05/30/serotalk-podcast-110-im-the-mayor-of-serotalk/ Wed, 30 May 2012 11:12:36 +0000 /?p=1774 Continue reading →]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 110: I’m the Mayor of SeroTalk

This week, Buddy Brannan sits in for Joe Steinkamp and joins Jamie Pauls and Ricky Enger in a lively discussion of the week’s news.

General Tech

Jury verdict: Android doesn’t infringe Oracle’s patents

IBM worries iPhone’s Siri has loose lips

SpokenLayer Helps You Listen to the Web

 Jonathan Ive: Apple’s current work is ‘most important’ yet

Jonathan Ive’s Design Studio: Off Limits at Apple

 Over-reliance on technology is undermining spelling skills

AT

In a Digital Age, Braille Is Still Important

The Power of Braille by Jamie Pauls

Code Factory Releases Mobile Accessibility for Android V1.9 with Braille Support

Apple, Please Bring Back Braille Access | Joe Orozco

Freedom Scientific Announces New Compact Braille Displays

New iOS app, Blindsquare, uses Foursquare to help blind people find places.

GWConnect 2.0

Indoor Navigation System Gives Guide Dogs A Rest

Meet the PLEXTALK Linio DAISY Player: A New Name and New Features

New version of Baker & Taylor’s digital media platform helps libraries serve visually-impaired

BlindSide – The Audio Adventure Game

Roundabout

Peter Cooper On Music: Blind picker Rory Hoffman does it ‘all wrong,’ but he’s doing something right

Eugene Polley, inventor of the TV remote, dies aged 96

 

]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 110: I’m the Mayor of SeroTalk - This week, Buddy Brannan sits in for Joe Steinkamp and joins Jamie Pauls and Ricky Enger in a lively discussion of the week’s news. General Tech Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 110: I’m the Mayor of SeroTalk This week, Buddy Brannan sits in for Joe Steinkamp and joins Jamie Pauls and Ricky Enger in a lively discussion of the week’s news. General Tech Jury verdict: Android doesn't infringe Oracle's patents IBM worries iPhone's Siri has loose lips SpokenLayer Helps You Listen to the Web  Jonathan Ive: Apple's current work is 'most important' yet Jonathan Ive’s Design Studio: Off Limits at Apple  Over-reliance on technology is undermining spelling skills AT In a Digital Age, Braille Is Still Important The Power of Braille by Jamie Pauls Code Factory Releases Mobile Accessibility for Android V1.9 with Braille Support Apple, Please Bring Back Braille Access | Joe Orozco Freedom Scientific Announces New Compact Braille Displays New iOS app, Blindsquare, uses Foursquare to help blind people find places. GWConnect 2.0 Indoor Navigation System Gives Guide Dogs A Rest Meet the PLEXTALK Linio DAISY Player: A New Name and New Features New version of Baker & Taylor's digital media platform helps libraries serve visually-impaired BlindSide - The Audio Adventure Game Roundabout Peter Cooper On Music: Blind picker Rory Hoffman does it ‘all wrong,’ but he’s doing something right Eugene Polley, inventor of the TV remote, dies aged 96   SeroTalk no 58:45 SeroTalk Podcast 107: Dangerous Levels of Multitasking /2012/05/09/serotalk-podcast-107-dangerous-levels-of-multitasking/ Wed, 09 May 2012 08:51:51 +0000 /?p=1742 Continue reading →]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 107: Dangerous Levels of Multitasking

Once again, Jamie Pauls, Ricky Enger and Joe Steinkamp settle in for a discussion of what was by all accounts a slow news week. Never fear, though. The gang found plenty to talk about, anyway. The topics discussed in this week’s podcast include the following:

Tablet Computing

Microsoft and Barnes & Noble settle patent dispute; create new subsidiary

An Accessibility Review of the Amazon Kindle 3 by Ricky Enger

For Windows 8 tablets, a weak forecast

Target will yank Kindles–why?

20 improvements I’d like to see in iOS 6

Smartphones

RIM Launches Blackberry 10

BlackBerry 10: Best feature nobody’s talking about

Samsung leapfrogs Apple as top smartphone vendor worldwide

iPhone 5 launching with 4-inch screen, new Dock connector?

Security

Facebook users: What? Facebook has privacy settings?

iTunes users griping about Apple’s security questions

General Tech

Twitter pumps up Discover feature with social signals

Hulu’s possible future: A playground for cable subscribers

AT

Global Accessibility Awareness Day Home Page

Skype 4.0 released and claims improved accessibility

EyeRing: Wearable Camera That Detects Objects For The Visually Impaired

Robot sensing and smartphones help blind navigate                                                      

Mushroom Escape – For the Best in Radio Drama and Comedy

Take the WebAIM screen reader user survey

Technology for Blind & Visually Impaired Viewers Debuts in UK

Mailbag

This week, we bring you an iReport from Blinky X. We trust that you will enjoy his comments as much as we did!

Roundabout

Feature Writer Alena Roberts – Think a Blind Man Can’t Be a Fashion Designer? Think Again

 

]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 107: Dangerous Levels of Multitasking - Once again, Jamie Pauls, Ricky Enger and Joe Steinkamp settle in for a discussion of what was by all accounts a slow news week. Never fear, though. The gang found plenty to talk about, Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 107: Dangerous Levels of Multitasking Once again, Jamie Pauls, Ricky Enger and Joe Steinkamp settle in for a discussion of what was by all accounts a slow news week. Never fear, though. The gang found plenty to talk about, anyway. The topics discussed in this week’s podcast include the following: Tablet Computing Microsoft and Barnes & Noble settle patent dispute; create new subsidiary An Accessibility Review of the Amazon Kindle 3 by Ricky Enger For Windows 8 tablets, a weak forecast Target will yank Kindles–why? 20 improvements I’d like to see in iOS 6 Smartphones RIM Launches Blackberry 10 BlackBerry 10: Best feature nobody’s talking about Samsung leapfrogs Apple as top smartphone vendor worldwide iPhone 5 launching with 4-inch screen, new Dock connector? Security Facebook users: What? Facebook has privacy settings? iTunes users griping about Apple's security questions General Tech Twitter pumps up Discover feature with social signals Hulu's possible future: A playground for cable subscribers AT Global Accessibility Awareness Day Home Page Skype 4.0 released and claims improved accessibility EyeRing: Wearable Camera That Detects Objects For The Visually Impaired Robot sensing and smartphones help blind navigate                                                       Mushroom Escape - For the Best in Radio Drama and Comedy Take the WebAIM screen reader user survey Technology for Blind & Visually Impaired Viewers Debuts in UK Mailbag This week, we bring you an iReport from Blinky X. We trust that you will enjoy his comments as much as we did! Roundabout Feature Writer Alena Roberts – Think a Blind Man Can’t Be a Fashion Designer? Think Again   SeroTalk no 1:39:38 SeroTalk Podcast 105: The Watched Phone Never Updates /2012/04/24/the-watched-phone-never-updates/ Tue, 24 Apr 2012 10:42:41 +0000 /?p=1716 Continue reading →]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 105: The Watched Phone Never Updates

In this week’s podcast, Jamie Pauls, Ricky Enger and Joe Steinkamp must do battle with a thunderstorm and a really loud lawn mower. There is one casualty as a result of the ensuing battle, but the show must go on and so it does. Who is forced off the island, so to speak? What are the top stories of the week? All of that and more awaits you as you listen to this week’s episode!

Entertainment

Dick Clark dies at age 82; fans pay tribute on Twitter

Social Media

Twitter’s no-lawsuit pledge: “We will not join the patent wars”

Why Facebook needs to build a browser

Legal Department

Apple and Samsung to meet out of court for settlement chat

Apple prepared to go to trial in the US over e-book pricing

Internet

Ex-FBI cyberexpert: Potential for digital Pearl Harbor is real

FedEx Office teams up with Google Cloud Print

Windows

5 Computer Maintenance Tips You Should Not Ignore!

Computer Maintenance Tools Available In Windows 7

How to bring the Start menu back to Windows 8

Cell Phones

Verizon’s 4G LTE blankets two-thirds of U.S. population

Next iPhone said to ditch glass for Liquidmetal, arrive in June

Carriers ponder Apple iPhone subsidy uprising: Will it work?

Will Windows Phone 8 makers be more free to tweak the OS?

Ebooks

Publishers Call for Industry Cohesion on Accessible e-Books

Why e-book DRM will die, and why this will make no difference to Amazon and Apple

AT

Learning Ally Audio App for your iPhone, iPod touch and iPad

Product Evaluation: BrailleNote Apex from HumanWare

Roundabout

Are Internet Friends Real Friends?

 

]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 105: The Watched Phone Never Updates - In this week’s podcast, Jamie Pauls, Ricky Enger and Joe Steinkamp must do battle with a thunderstorm and a really loud lawn mower. There is one casualty as a result of the ensuing batt... Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 105: The Watched Phone Never Updates In this week’s podcast, Jamie Pauls, Ricky Enger and Joe Steinkamp must do battle with a thunderstorm and a really loud lawn mower. There is one casualty as a result of the ensuing battle, but the show must go on and so it does. Who is forced off the island, so to speak? What are the top stories of the week? All of that and more awaits you as you listen to this week’s episode! Entertainment Dick Clark dies at age 82; fans pay tribute on Twitter Social Media Twitter's no-lawsuit pledge: "We will not join the patent wars" Why Facebook needs to build a browser Legal Department Apple and Samsung to meet out of court for settlement chat Apple prepared to go to trial in the US over e-book pricing Internet Ex-FBI cyberexpert: Potential for digital Pearl Harbor is real FedEx Office teams up with Google Cloud Print Windows 5 Computer Maintenance Tips You Should Not Ignore! Computer Maintenance Tools Available In Windows 7 How to bring the Start menu back to Windows 8 Cell Phones Verizon's 4G LTE blankets two-thirds of U.S. population Next iPhone said to ditch glass for Liquidmetal, arrive in June Carriers ponder Apple iPhone subsidy uprising: Will it work? Will Windows Phone 8 makers be more free to tweak the OS? Ebooks Publishers Call for Industry Cohesion on Accessible e-Books Why e-book DRM will die, and why this will make no difference to Amazon and Apple AT Learning Ally Audio App for your iPhone, iPod touch and iPad Product Evaluation: BrailleNote Apex from HumanWare Roundabout Are Internet Friends Real Friends?   SeroTalk no 1:00:38 SeroTalk Podcast 102: Squishy Dots /2012/04/03/serotalk-podcast-102-squishy-dots/ Tue, 03 Apr 2012 15:33:29 +0000 /?p=1680 Continue reading →]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 102: Squishy Dots

Jamie Pauls and Ricky Enger welcome Joe Steinkamp back to this week’s podcast. After a brief discussion about Joe’s recent computer problems, the three of them tackle the news of the week.

Smartphones

Why Apple should abandon its ‘thermonuclear’ war against Android

iPhone Vs. Android Phones, Which One is Dominating the Market?

Feature Writer Steve Famiglietti – A Personal Journey Through the iPhone 4S

Hospitals Warn Smartphones Could Distract Doctors

iPad

Apple ‘Must Fix’ iPad Battery Issue, Study Warns

Apple: iPad charging fine, keep it plugged in

General Tech

Is HTC prepping an iPod Touch rival?

AT&T striving to retain customers through new loyalty program

Twitter bug makes it seem you’re unfollowing people

Google Drive due as soon as April

Harry Potter Flies Onto eReaders as Pottermore Store Opens

Windows 8 Release Candidate rumored for June, retail release in October

AT

windows 8 narrator, provides hype and not hope

Volunteer for Exciting New Image Description Project!

A screen reader for everyone: why the world needs NVDA | Media Access Australia

Electroactive polymer key to durable full-screen Braille displays

Roundabout

Self-Driving Car Test: Steve Mahan (Audio Described) – YouTube

]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 102: Squishy Dots - Jamie Pauls and Ricky Enger welcome Joe Steinkamp back to this week’s podcast. After a brief discussion about Joe’s recent computer problems, the three of them tackle the news of the week. Smartphones Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 102: Squishy Dots Jamie Pauls and Ricky Enger welcome Joe Steinkamp back to this week’s podcast. After a brief discussion about Joe’s recent computer problems, the three of them tackle the news of the week. Smartphones Why Apple should abandon its 'thermonuclear' war against Android iPhone Vs. Android Phones, Which One is Dominating the Market? Feature Writer Steve Famiglietti – A Personal Journey Through the iPhone 4S Hospitals Warn Smartphones Could Distract Doctors iPad Apple 'Must Fix' iPad Battery Issue, Study Warns Apple: iPad charging fine, keep it plugged in General Tech Is HTC prepping an iPod Touch rival? AT&T striving to retain customers through new loyalty program Twitter bug makes it seem you're unfollowing people Google Drive due as soon as April Harry Potter Flies Onto eReaders as Pottermore Store Opens Windows 8 Release Candidate rumored for June, retail release in October AT windows 8 narrator, provides hype and not hope Volunteer for Exciting New Image Description Project! A screen reader for everyone: why the world needs NVDA | Media Access Australia Electroactive polymer key to durable full-screen Braille displays Roundabout Self-Driving Car Test: Steve Mahan (Audio Described) – YouTube SeroTalk no 1:32:09 SeroTalk Podcast 99: I Require Cash /2012/03/14/serotalk-podcast-99-i-require-cash/ Wed, 14 Mar 2012 08:36:25 +0000 /?p=1643 Continue reading →]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 99: I Require Cash

Welcome back to the SeroTalk Podcast. There’s just a tiny bit of news from Apple on this week’s show. After that bit of news, Jamie Pauls, Ricky Enger and Joe Steinkamp discuss the rest of the week’s news stories.

Apple

iPad vs. iPad 2 vs. the new iPad

Apple iOS 5.1: First Take

Apple TV’s new user interface: Hands-on

iPad 3: What we didn’t get

Apple’s next-gen iPad: New battlefields emerge

Google

New Android voice assistant, Robin, rides shotgun

Google may be planning Siri rival for later this year

Google dishing up ‘Key Lime Pie’ for Android?

                                Google+ Hangouts become accessible to the blind

CSUN 2012

Reporting from CSUN in San Diego

5 good news stories from CSUN 2012

Listen to more great CSUN 2012 coverage from Blind Bargains and Blind Access Journal.

CSUN12:  The ultimate user experience

AT

Tween resources

VizWiz: What’s New in Version 1.4.1    

HumanWare Victor Reader Stratus M Version 2.1 – Listening Made Easier

eBooks

The eBook Backlash

 Action Required: Are Your Kids Using Technology in  School?

EU and US team up on e-book antitrust case against Apple, publishers

General Tech

Amazon may be mulling plan to create TV shows

Time to Kill Off Captchas

Mailbag

This week, we respond to more iReports, emails and blog comments from our listeners including yet another endorsement of the Aftershokz wrap-around bone conduction headphones.

Roundabout

With no sight and plenty of lines, blind actors make the scenes

Visually-Impaired Veterans Share Support and Information

 

]]> SeroTalk Podcast 98: TripleSpectives /2012/03/06/serotalk-podcast-98-triplespectives/ Tue, 06 Mar 2012 21:59:19 +0000 /?p=1627 Continue reading →]]> Listen to SeroTalk Podcast 98: TripleSpectives

This week, while Ricky and Joe are off to CSUN, Jamie Pauls, Buddy Brannan and Lisa Salinger discuss the news of the week. Here are the stories they discuss:

Privacy

 

Five ways Google’s unified privacy policy affects you

 

iPad Rumor Roundup

Apple sends out invites for March 7 iPad event

iPad 3 rumor roundup

Apple iPad 3: What to expect

The curious case of the missing iPad 3 home button

iPad 3: Apple’s Biggest Test

AT

QRead: The Accessible eText reader from the future!

Window-Eyes and Windows 8 Presentation now available online

Listen to SPN coverage and Blind Bargains coverage on iBlink Radio.

App will help blind, visually impaired navigate streets

Blind Bargains: IPPLEX Rleases LookTel Recognizer Ap for iOS

Blind Bargains: Code Factory Announces Braille Support for Android with Mobile Accessibility V1.9

Blind Bargains: Free Mobile Accessibility App Now Available for Sprint, Boost, Virgin Mobile

Introducing ChromeVox (with audio description) – YouTube

Just Another Checkbox by Mike Calvo

Windows 8 Roundup

It’s Windows 8 download day: Here’s what we know

Windows 8 beta folds in 100,000 code changes (live blog)

Windows 8 Beta: Hands-on with Microsoft’s tablet-friendly OS

Is Microsoft hoping for the best but preparing for the worst with Windows 8?

Is Windows too expensive?

 

Apple

Apple reportedly cooking up new audio file format

 

General Tech

Verizon to offer shared family data plan by midyear

 

Roundabout

Nascar driver tweets during race, adds 130,000 followers

Blind attorney teaches self-defense and overcomes fear

Playing Video Games Can Help Improve Your Vision

 

 

]]> Archives of SeroSpectives: This Month in Tech for January 2012 Are Now Available /2012/02/03/archives-of-serospectives-this-month-in-tech-for-january-2012-are-now-available/ Fri, 03 Feb 2012 16:07:36 +0000 /?p=1544 Continue reading →]]> The archives of the latest episode of SeroSpectives: This Month in Tech For January 2012 are now available. Feel free to listen to an audio presentation of the show, view the show notes page, or replay the Accessible Event archive of the show.

However you choose to listen, we trust that you will enjoy the presentation.

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