Wireless RERC News

The Wireless RERC submitted reply comments in response to the Federal Communications Commission's Further Notice of Purposed Rulemaking: Facilitating the Deployment of Text-to-911 and Other Next Generation 911 Applications [PS Docket No. 11-153] and Framework for Next Generation 911 Deployment [PS Docket No. 10-255]. The Wireless RERC agreed with assertions that the regulations on the availability of text-to-911 and bounce back error messages should apply to all mobile service providers.

AccessNote is an iOS app that enables users who are blind or visually impaired to take notes, create documents, and access applications.  In addition to being a low-cost alternative to traditional notetakers costing $2000 or more, AccessNote allows users to combine efficient notetaking with many other features and functions of the iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch. Download AccessNote from the App Store.

BrailleTouch is a smartphone app that allows blind and visually impaired people to type on a touchscreen. It is based on the familiar six-key braille keyboard found on the Perkins Brailler and many electronic Braille notetakers. Both the free trial version and full version are available for download.  BrailleTouch was made possible, in part, by the Wireless RERC’s App Factory and the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR). Download BrailleTouch

The Abilities Expo is coming to Atlanta on February 8-10, 2013 and will provide an opportunity for individuals with disabilities, seniors, veterans and healthcare professionals to get a firsthand look at “new technologies, new possibilities, new solutions and new opportunities to change your life.” The Wireless RERC will have a booth in the Assistive Technology (AT) Pavilion where the current research conducted by the RERC, Shepherd Center’s AT Department and Georgia’s Tools for Life Program will be showcased.

"IDEAL Group Reader" is a fully-accessible eBook reader app that can read text aloud, just like an audio book.  It was developed by Apps4Android with support from Wireless RERC's App Factory.  The Beta version of this ePub3 reader has been tested by thousands of users in 116 countries.

Apps4Android's CEO Steve Jacobs showcased the IDEAL Group Reader (IGR) at the Consumer Electronics Association's (CEA) International CES 2013 in Las Vegas on January 8-12.