wiREVO headset
The wiREVO Bluetooth headset from I-O DATA USA allows users wireless access to “any Bluetooth-enabled device” in 24-bit stereo sound. We especially like that a single button press on a remote control allows users to switch from listening to music to picking up a phone call; unfortunately, there were no pictures of the remote, so we can’t comment on its general accessibility for users with dexterity-related disabilities. Promising concept, though, and might be beneficial for hard-of-hearing folks as well.
I-O DATA USA ships wiREVO 3-in-1 Bluetooth wireless products
Holding a tadpole
The Tadpole from iFrogz is designed as a kid-friendly iPod holder–it provides both easier-to-grip silicone handles, and shock absorption and screen protection if it’s dropped. We could see this being useful for a lot of people with dexterity impairments, too.
Game for anything
This video shows how LiveMove software for the Wii game system can be used to program the Wii remote to recognize any consistent movement. We’d like to see this evolve so it can be used to create customized applications for individuals with motor disabilities–maybe for environmental control, maybe for computer control, maybe for exercizing their inalienable right to make an avatar perform the Chicken Dance.
Sign aid
Siemens is developing technology that can recognize speed limit signs from a distance, display the limit information on a “head-up” display, and even adjust cruise control to match the limit. What if similar technology could be used to recognize all kinds of traffic signs, and maybe provide spoken as well as visual cues? Among other benefits, it might help seniors extend their driving years. Just a prototype for now, though.
Siemens VDO Traffic Sign Recognition warns if driving too fast
Training cell phone
The Imaginarium Mo1 cell phone is a variation on our old friend Firefly with some design improvements such as larger, color-coded buttons and a more graspable shell. Designed for kids, but could be useful for seniors and people with cognitive or dexterity disabilities as well.
Cell-ar door
Here’s an interesting hybrid: cell phone meets door opener. The GSM-Doorbell system from Waleli translates an outside buzzer press into a call to your cell phone. If you like the person on the other side of the intercom, you can enter a PIN number on your cell phone and let them into the building. Promising for people with limited mobility and/or reach? You bet.
Rubber soul
We’re intrigued that this can apparently be used to produce different musical sounds based on pressure and position. If slipped over a dowel, say, it might be used as a simple music-making device by people with some types of significant motor impairments.