Double Tap

In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece cover a variety of topics, starting with an update on Seleste glasses and big news for YouTube users of third-party apps. The discussion begins with Seleste Glasses, focusing on the company's decision to drop the Wi-Fi component in their next iteration for better battery life and a slimmer design, leading to the dropping of real-time video. However, an email from the CEO of Seleste sent to Double Tap clarifies that real-time video streaming might still be possible through Bluetooth, similar to Meta Ray bands streaming to Instagram. The conversation explores the technical challenges of streaming clear, uninterrupted video feeds wirelessly, which is crucial for applications like Aira. Next, the hosts discuss YouTube's enforcement of third-party apps that block ads, highlighting the importance of advertisements in supporting creators and the platform. They express concerns about apps like Accessible YouTube Downloader Pro, which bypass ads, potentially violating YouTube's terms of service. The discussion emphasizes the need for these apps to comply with YouTube's policies to ensure creators are compensated for their work. Listener emails add further debate to the episode, covering topics from the importance of learning Braille and touch typing to personal experiences with self-consciousness due to physical appearance. A listener correction about the first Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant's location sparks a light-hearted moment. The episode concludes with an encouragement for listener participation, inviting them to share stories, reviews, and feedback, emphasizing the inclusive nature of the Double Tap community. Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us on social media.

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece delve into a variety of tech topics, maintaining their usual blend of humour and insight. They kick off by discussing their current health woes, sharing a light-hearted banter about colds and the remedies they've attempted. The conversation then shifts to a more tech-focused discussion, starting with Elijah's review of the Celeste glasses. This segment offers listeners a detailed look into the features, user experience, and potential of the Celeste glasses, a piece of accessible technology designed to aid users. Elijah's review is thorough, covering everything from the design and setup process to the app's main features like text scanning, scene description, and the smart assistant. He also touches on the practical aspects such as battery life, connectivity, and the potential for future third-party app integration, providing a comprehensive overview that could be valuable for anyone considering this technology. Throughout the episode, the hosts also engage with listener feedback on various topics. They discuss the potential of Tesla's self-driving technology, comparing it to Waymo, and explore the challenges and advancements in accessible navigation aids for people who are blind or partially sighted. The discussion is enriched by input from listeners who share their experiences, opinions, and even life hacks for navigating the world. One notable segment involves a listener's query about finding a practical solution for navigating from a building to a dumpster across a courtyard without a clear shoreline or guidance system. This prompts a broader discussion on the current state and future possibilities of outdoor navigation aids, highlighting the real-world challenges faced by people who are partially sighted. Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us across social media.

In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive into various topics, including the latest Android 15 updates, the buzz around AI, web accessibility, and the quirky challenges of modern smart home devices. They discuss the news that NVDA has received a major funding boost of $10,000 from Microsoft, as well as the news that Android 15 will have a new feature to help people who are blind use the fingerprint unlock on phones where the sensor is underneath the screen. Plus there's chat about Limitless AI, who have just announced a new hardware device aimed at helping you remember what's happened through your day. In the second half of the show, guest Jakob Rosin from Estonia joins the guys to discuss the pitfalls of relying too heavily on AI for web accessibility. He critiques web overlays that promise to make sites accessible but often fall short, emphasizing the need for human oversight in accessibility efforts. Rosin's insights highlight the importance of genuine commitment to accessibility, beyond superficial tech solutions. Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us on social media.

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece kick things off with a casual chat about their current health woes, joking about the myriad illnesses that seem to strike as the weather changes. The duo then dives into a discussion about a recent visit to an AI burger joint, "CaliExpress by Flippy," reported by The Guardian. They explore the implications of AI and robotics in the fast food industry, particularly in light of California's new $20 hourly minimum wage for fast food workers. The conversation raises questions about the future of employment in an increasingly automated world, the ethics of replacing human jobs with machines, and the potential societal impacts of such shifts. Steven and Shaun also address the critical reception of the Humane AI pin, highlighting a particularly scathing review by tech influencer Marques Brownlee. They debate the responsibility of reviewers with large followings to consider the impact of their critiques on emerging technologies and companies. Listener feedback and emails bring up topics such as the VoiceVista reading speeds, the Arcanite fingerprint reader's performance, and accessible fitness apps for interval training. The episode wraps up with a voicemail from a listener sharing his favourite travel destinations and experiences, prompting a light-hearted reflection on travel preferences and the value of exploring new places. Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us on social media.

In this episode focusing on the best of YouTube from this week, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss a range of topics related to technology and accessibility. They kick off with discussion on the Apple antitrust case brought forward by the U.S. Department of Justice, the implications of legal battles on technological innovation, and the broader impact on consumers and the tech industry. They are joined by Michael Babcock, who shares insights on the DOJ's case against Apple, discussing whether the legal actions are timely or necessary, given the tech advancements and changes already underway within iOS. Next up, they guys explore the challenges and opportunities presented by the increasing use of kiosks in various industries, from fast food to healthcare. Special guest Matt Ater from Vispero introduces JAWS for kiosk, a solution aimed at making kiosks more accessible to the visually impaired by providing voice guidance and other accessible features. This segment highlights the importance of inclusivity in technological development and the potential for accessibility solutions to broaden the usability of everyday technologies. And finally Samuel Green from Zoom North America discusses the new Essential range of audio recorders designed with accessibility features, including voice guidance and 32-bit float recording technology. This innovation aims to simplify the recording process for visually impaired users, emphasizing Zoom's commitment to inclusivity and the potential impact of accessible recording technology on the blind community. Get ahead of the conversation and check out the Double Tap YouTube channel every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday on the platform which you can find using this link: [https://www.youtube.com/@DoubleTapVideo]

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive into a significant update for Android users, specifically around Braille display compatibility. Matthew Horspool from the Braillists Foundation joins the conversation to break down the technicalities and implications of Android 15's beta release, which promises HID support for Braille displays. This development is poised to make a wide range of Braille devices more accessible to Android users, addressing long-standing compatibility issues and potentially transforming the experience for visually impaired Android enthusiasts. The episode also features a roundup of other tech news, presented by Grace Scoffield. Highlights include Waymap's impressive funding round to expand its navigation solutions, Roku's new certification requirements to boost accessibility, and speculation around Microsoft's ARM laptops potentially outperforming Apple's M3 MacBook Air. The segment wraps up with a nostalgic look back at the release of Windows 3.1, marking a significant milestone in computing history. Listeners contribute to the episode with thoughtful feedback on various topics, including the recent controversy surrounding Voice Dream Reader's subscription model changes and suggestions for micro Bluetooth devices to enhance the usability of devices like the Victor Reader Stream 2. Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us on social media.

In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive into a mix of tech news, listener feedback and some intriguing discussions about smart technology, particularly focusing on Amazon's Lady A (Alexa) and the evolving landscape of smart speakers and AI. Steven and Shaun predict the future will bring a new wave of smart speakers powered by AI, which will likely require new hardware to support more sophisticated on-device processing. This conversation leads to a broader discussion on the potential impact of AI on accessibility, with both hosts recognizing the promise AI holds for making technology more usable for people with disabilities. However, they also acknowledge current limitations, such as accessibility issues on websites like chat.openai.com. Listener feedback plays a significant role in this episode, with emails touching on topics like using AI for cooking assistance and the importance of tactile feedback in mobility aids like white canes. The hosts also respond to a listener's critique about their skepticism towards smart canes replacing traditional mobility aids, clarifying that their concern lies more with the lack of community involvement in the development of such technologies rather than opposition to innovation itself. Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us on social media.

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece kick off another show filled with discussions on Pi, the AI assistant, and listener emails. The hosts start with a conversation about a one-cup hot water dispenser Steven is considering buying. This discussion explores the challenges of using traditional kettles and the convenience of a one-cup dispenser. Listener emails return the focus to proper technology talk, with an update on Pi, the AI assistant, and its significance in the partially sighted community. The email highlights a recent move by Microsoft in the AI space and emphasizes how AI assistants like Pi can simplify web navigation and information gathering for visually impaired users. The conversation shifts to Steven sharing his excitement about getting new slippers and anticipating a new family dog. Listener feedback continues to steer the episode, with discussions on accessible guitar tuners and navigating outdoor spaces using technology. The hosts explore various apps and solutions, demonstrating their commitment to addressing the diverse needs of their audience. Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us on social media.

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece kick things off with a chat about Pi AI, a personal AI assistant that's been generating buzz for its impressive performance and utility. However, one listener's experience with Pi AI, as shared through an email, highlights some accessibility hurdles, particularly with its user interface and voice interaction features, which sparked a broader discussion on the importance of accessibility in tech apps. The conversation then shifts to the Mac versus Windows debate, sparked by a listener's observation that despite the low percentage of Mac users who are blind, Mac often gets more airtime on tech podcasts. Steven defends his preference for Mac, attributing it to personal familiarity and the show's focus on his own tech experiences. This segues into a discussion about Chromebooks and their place in the tech ecosystem, especially in education, and how Google's Chromebook+ standard aims to ensure a quality experience for users, including those relying on accessibility features. Listeners also contribute to the episode with their tech queries and observations. Topics range from VoiceOver issues on iPhones, and preferences between Mac and Windows based on personal use cases, to leveraging tech for learning Braille and experiencing astronomical events like eclipses through accessible broadcasts. Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us on social media.

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive into the latest updates from Voice Dream Reader and explore a new tool to enhance web accessibility. First up, they discuss the recent changes announced by Voice Dream Reader. A listener, Graham, shares his discovery that the app's update notes suggest a shift away from a mandatory subscription model for legacy customers. This news sparks a detailed analysis by Steven and Shaun, who weigh in on the implications of this decision for both the company and its user base. They delve into the community's reaction, including the overwhelming feedback Voice Dream received, which ultimately led them to retract their subscription requirement for adding new documents. However, Steven and Shaun express concern about the sustainability of this decision, pondering how it might affect the app's future development and the broader context of app monetization strategies. The second part of the episode introduces a conversation with Oliver Emberton from Silktide, recorded by Allison Sheridan at the CSUN conference. Oliver presents a new Chrome extension designed to aid web developers in making their sites more accessible. This tool offers features like a screen reader simulator, a focus order visualizer, and a colour contrast checker, all aimed at simplifying the process of ensuring web accessibility. Allison's enthusiasm and insightful questions highlight the potential impact of such tools in promoting inclusivity online. Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us on social media.

In this episode focusing on the best of YouTube from this week, the hosts, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, discuss a range of topics related to technology and accessibility. First up, Michael Babcock joins the guys to chat about his recent trip to CSUN, particularly focusing on Sony's efforts in making cameras more accessible for the blind and partially sighted community. Michael details the evolution of Sony's accessible camera features, from basic accessibility announcements to the inclusion of TalkBack for navigation and future plans for facial recognition in photo previews. The conversation shifts to the intriguing AIBO, Sony's robotic dog, which Babcock had the chance to interact with at CSUN. Despite its lack of fur, Aibo exhibits behaviours that mimic a real dog, including responding to touch and learning from interactions. The hosts debate the potential benefits and drawbacks of such AI companions, pondering whether they could serve as suitable substitutes for real pets for certain individuals. (Starts at 13 seconds) The next featured YouTube video also touches on other notable products and technologies featured at CSUN, like the all-terrain cane by Awarewolf, designed to support hikers who are partially sighted, and Case for Vision, a smartphone case that facilitates reading for users. The hosts reflect on the practicality of these innovations and the importance of focusing on simple, effective solutions alongside more high-tech offerings. (Starts at 19 minutes 12 seconds) In the third video, Michael returns to talk about the experience of visiting CSUN, how he travelled there and what navigating around with 3,500 other people in the same space was like. (Starts at 32 minutes 35 seconds) Jenine Stanley from Aira joins the conversation to discuss how Aira is making the upcoming solar eclipse accessible for visually impaired individuals through detailed audio descriptions. This initiative highlights the broader potential of technology to make various aspects of life more inclusive. (Starts at 42 minutes 50 seconds) Get ahead of the conversation and check out the Double Tap YouTube channel every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday on the platform which you can find using this link: https://www.youtube.com/@DoubleTapVideo

In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss the big stories this week in tech, plus we catch up with Matt Ater from Vispero about his trip to CSUN in California and his current stay in London, England. Mr. F is our special guest reader for the Double Tap news this week, including stories about how the solar eclipse goes beyond visuals to engage all the senses, Google agrees to destroy collected incognito mode data, Microsoft spins off Teams as a separate product, an AI-powered Xbox chatbot is being tested, and OpenAI's new Voice Engine which could be a game-changer for accessibility. Later, Matt Ater from Vispero joins the conversation to discuss the CSUN conference, his visit to the UK, and his work with the RNIB on making kiosks more accessible through their JAWS for Kiosk product. Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us on social media.

In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive into a variety of topics, including the practicality of managing digital subscriptions, with Steven sharing his recent experience of trimming his subscriptions to manage his expenses better. Listener emails touch upon the antitrust case against Apple, debating the merits and implications of the case. They also explore how technology, particularly AI and large language models, is evolving and its impact on consumer choices and preferences. The show also features a segment with Jenine Stanley from Aira, who shares exciting details about how Aira is helping people enjoy the upcoming solar eclipse through detailed audio descriptions and interactive events. Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us on social media.

In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive into a variety of topics including the AI advancements with Apple's new system, Realm, which aims to outperform GPT-4 in understanding context and conversation. The episode takes a deep dive into the controversy surrounding Voice Dream Reader's shift to a subscription model, with listeners voicing their opinions on the fairness and implications of this change. The hosts explore whether the new owners of Voice Dream Reader should honour the previous "lifetime" purchase promises and how the app's value and utility justify or challenge the move to a subscription model. Also, Allison Sheridan from the NosillaCast podcast shares an interview she recorded at this year's CSUN assistive technology conference with Strap Tech, an obstacle avoidance device. You can listen to Allison's shows via podfeet.com. Plus Steven shares news of a new JAWS course from the guys over at Unmute Presents. Find out how and how to subscribe at unmute.show. Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us on social media.

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive into the latest tech news, focusing on Google's settlement over tracking users in incognito mode and Amazon's new palm recognition service for payments and verification. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its advancements in text-to-speech and voice cloning technologies are a major part of the discussion. They explore how AI is becoming more emotionally intelligent and the potential for voice cloning to impact society, raising ethical questions about the technology's use and the difficulty in distinguishing real from fake. Listener emails also touch on the BT Speak discontinuation, subscription model frustrations, and the need for regulations on AI development. Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us across social media.

In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive into a range of topics with their characteristic blend of humour and insight. The show kicks off with a light-hearted discussion about the challenges of studio technology and the quirks of recording a daily show. The hosts share a laugh over an unexpected voicemail from a company offering to dispose of electronic waste, sparking a conversation about the rare occurrence of spam calls to their line and the high quality of listener interactions. The episode takes a more serious turn as they address listener concerns over the Voice Dream Reader app's transition to a subscription model. This change has sparked controversy within the community, particularly among those who previously purchased the app with the understanding of a one-time fee for lifetime access. The hosts debate the implications of this shift, balancing the need for ongoing app development and support against the expectations set by previous purchase agreements. Throughout the episode, listener emails play a significant role, offering valuable insights and personal experiences. From comparing Braille displays to discussing the importance of accessible technology in education, the audience contributions add depth to the conversation. One listener shares a humorous and relatable story about accidentally entering the wrong apartment, highlighting the everyday adventures of navigating the world as someone who is blind or partially sighted. The hosts also touch on the potential of new mobility technology to enhance independence. While Steven expresses skepticism about replacing traditional aids like canes and guide dogs, they both acknowledge the importance of innovation in addressing challenges like obstacle detection at head height. Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us on social media.

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive back into their overflowing inbox to tackle a variety of listener emails, exploring topics from accessible technology to personal anecdotes and beyond.One listener, Sharon from Michigan, updates the hosts on the Blindshell mobile program, highlighting the ongoing efforts to secure continued funding for this valuable service.Another email from Dave touches on key safes and sunglasses, introducing practical solutions for everyday challenges faced by visually impaired people. Dave shares his personal experience with macular degeneration and the difficulties of wearing sunglasses with hearing aids, sparking a conversation on the importance of accessible options for everyone.Eleanor brings up the topic of Braille education, advocating for its inclusion in the curriculum for visually impaired children. This leads to a broader discussion on the benefits of specialist schooling versus mainstream integration, with the hosts sharing their perspectives on the matter.Dennis from Nairobi seeks advice on accessing sensitive content on Twitter, reading e-papers, and a peculiar issue with VoiceOver not reading the word "are." The hosts provide their insights and encourage Dennis to provide more details for further assistance.The episode also features discussions on the Ambutech No-Jab cane, recommended by several listeners for its innovative design that prevents jabs during use. This sparks a conversation about the preferences and experiences of cane users.Lastly, Mark from Miami Beach addresses the upcoming changes to Gmail, advocating for the standard view over the basic HTML version. He emphasizes the accessibility of the standard view with screen readers and encourages listeners to adapt to the new format.The show wraps up with a reminder that there will be no new episodes now until Easter Monday when the boys return. Happy Easter everyone!Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us across social media.

In this lively episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece start with a clarification about the Orbit Reader Q40, correcting a previous guest's thoughts about the number of cells it has; it's 40, not 48, as was mistakenly mentioned.The discussion then moves to Apple's WWDC announcement, where Steven expresses his waning interest in the Vision Pro, contrasting with Sean's curiosity about its development potential, especially concerning the accessibility of its cameras to developers.Listener emails bring a personal touch to the episode, with stories and questions about cane preferences, non-tech sunglasses for bright sunlight, and the importance of mobility training over tech solutions for navigation challenges. The hosts also address feedback on various topics, including the accessibility of the Amazon Music iOS app and the potential of Windows Spots on Apple Voiceover to improve navigation on Mac.Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us across social media.

In this lively episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, along with their special guest Michael Babcock, dive into a comprehensive review of this year's CSUN Assistive Technology Conference.Michael Babcock, a first-time attendee at CSUN, shares his experiences and insights from the event. He discusses various aspects of the conference, from the diversity of assistive technologies showcased, including those beyond blindness, to the significance of meeting people in person whom he's known online for years.Michael shares his thoughts on the new Orbit Q40 and Q20 Braille displays,  the ARX Vision headset, which promises to enhance navigation for visually impaired users through AI and a camera integrated into a bone conduction headset, and Sony's robotic dog, Aibo.Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us across social media.

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive into the hot topic of the Department of Justice's antitrust case against Apple. They unpack the government's claims that Apple is monopolizing the tech market, with a special focus on iMessage and Apple Pay. Steven argues that the case is based on outdated information, especially with upcoming changes in iOS 18 that address many of the DOJ's concerns. Shaun, while agreeing on some points, highlights the importance of government scrutiny in keeping big tech companies in check for the sake of consumer experience.The conversation then shifts to the AppleVis expansion to cover more than just Apple products. Thomas Domville, a moderator at the website, joins the discussion to explain the decision to include forums on Windows, Android, smart home tech, and assistive technology.Keep in touch by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us across social media.