Apps

January 2014 — The Wells Foundation in partnership with Ohio State University and Columbus Speech and Hearing Center released a new communication app for children and adults with language impairments.  Based on a successful prototype using a common, standard database of picture elements, Citra networks and shares communication boards, schedule maker, and notes between multiple people providing services to the same child.

November 25, 2013 — Each year, the Wireless RERC’s App Factory invites experienced organizations or individual developers based in the U.S. to submit proposals for financial support to develop assistive and/or accessibility apps which can be used to enhance the utility and usability of wireless products and services for customers with and without disabilities. Following a call for proposals earlier this year, the App Factory is proud to announce that five apps have been selected for development during the 2013-2014 grant year.  The apps selected for development include:

The RERC's App Factory is holding open its 2013-14 Call for Proposals until October 8. Interested app developers can view the PDF below for proposal requirements or view the App Factory RFP webpage.

September 2013 — Sprint has announced the release of Kyocera Kona, a new smartphone with multiple accessibility features.  The compact flip phone provides users with a tactile keyboard, verbal descriptions of on-screen menus, “high-contrast user interface options,” 911 shortcuts, and “verbal translation enabling internet browsing.” The phone is also being currently offered free of charge, following a $50 mail-in rebate.  Of the service, David Owens, Vice President of Product Development at Sprint, stated, “Sprint has always been dedicated to ensuring accessibility – whether it’s our award w