Wireless RERC - App Factory

Citra: A New Communication App

mz22 — Mon, 27 Jan 2014 16:19:02 +0000

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. Therapist, special needs teachers and parents can access the same lesson plans from whatever computer or tablet they use, while a notes log provides constant communications between all caregivers supporting the child. Citra is currently available on Google Play and the App Store.

Citra was made possible, in part, by the Wireless RERC’s App Factory and the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR).

AccessNote Now Available on App Store

blippincott4 — Mon, 04 Feb 2013 15:39:52 +0000

The App Factory AccessNote Page

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.

New App to Identify U.S. Currency

blippincott4 — Mon, 08 Oct 2012 16:32:28 +0000

October 9, 2012 - The Department of Education announced today the launch of IDEAL Currency Identifier, a free downloadable application (app) designed to assist individuals who are blind or visually impaired to denominate U.S. currency on Android mobile devices. IDEAL Currency Identifier was developed by IDEAL Group, IQ Engines, and the Wireless Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center's App Factory. The IDEAL Currency Identifier initiative supports the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) mandate to provide increased access to US currency for persons who are blind and visually impaired.

IDEAL Currency Identifier handles three generations of U.S. currency notes beginning in 1993 and is compatible with Android 4.0 or higher devices with rear-facing cameras.

The app can be downloaded for free to more than 1,250 different wireless devices. Android-based devices are produced by 48 manufacturers and distributed by 60 wireless service providers, in 136 countries. It was developed by Apps4Android, Inc., a subsidiary of IDEAL Group that focuses on developing accessible mobile applications.

Dr. Charlie Lakin, the Director of NIDRR, issued the following statement: “Through our dialogue with the BEP, a special opportunity emerged to fulfill our mission in support of persons who are blind and visually impaired. IDEAL Currency Identifier uses advanced image recognition technology to read a note and, in a matter of seconds, provide users with an audible response indicating the note’s denomination.“

Department of Education Press Release