Other News

August 17, 2012 – Verizon Wireless has made available a Mobile Accessibility Suite for their Android 2.2 or higher Smartphones.  According to Verizon, the Mobile Accessibility Suite is a collection of ten apps designed to enhance usability by people who are blind or have low vision.  Some features include voice recognition, text-to speech software, and Braille output.  Verizon also reports that consumers will be able to experience full access to the mobile browser.

July 26, 2012 - In an effort to increase the number of printed materials for people who are blind and low vision, ex-offenders will be trained in Braille transcription, computer skills and business techniques. The program, Providing Real Opportunities for Income through Technology (or PROFITT), is currently being beta tested in a maximum-security institution in Texas. It was developed through a partnership of the National Braille Press, the Texas Department of Criminal Justice and the Alternative Media Access Center (AMAC) at the Georgia Institute of Technology.

July 12, 2012 –The American Foundation for the Blind and FloCo Apps, LLC have collaborated to produce AccessNote, a note-taker app for any iOS tablet or smartphone. AccessNote is compatible with the built-in accessibility features of iOS such as Voice Over and the iOS screen reader. It is also compatible with Apple’s wireless keyboard and wireless braille keyboards and displays.  AccessNote is scheduled for release this summer at a price point below $30.    [Source: American Foundation for the Blind]

June 21, 2012 – In May, the Center for Advanced Communications Policy in association with the Federal Communications Bar Association, sponsored a luncheon, as part of the Public Policy Luncheon Series, discussing The Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010 (CVAA).  The luncheon series is an opportunity for “local, state and federal government leaders, industry representatives and a diverse set of stakeholders to address the public policy issues facing the telecommunications industry, particularly pertaining to accessibility for persons with disabilities.”  Lu

06.13.2012 – The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) Portable Handheld and In-Vehicle Electronics Committee is seeking individuals interested in standards development to join the committee.  The committee “develops standards, bulletins and other technical publications that address portable and handheld consumer electronics products, and consumer electronics products used in private and commercial vehicles, boats and aircraft.”  Those interested in joining the committee can visit the CEA website for more information. [Source: CEA SmartBrief]