I don’t see what you’re saying
One of the problems for some would-be speech output users is that most speech output strategies require tricky or intense use of the keyboard, mouse, or both; this can be a particular problem for seniors. Some German researchers have come up with a pretty cool solution involving use of facial recognition technology: just close your eyes, and Microsoft Word reads back the “current” sentence (presumably the one where the cursor is located). Ein guter Start; we’d love to see additional features, such as the ability to blink slowly to have the speech output move to and read the next line.
ACM Digital Library: Spoken words: activating text-to-speech through eye closure (summary)
Call to odor
A bunch of German researchers have patented a chip that emits up to 100 different smells. We could see a range of access applications for this–for example, if a particular odor could be tied to a particular caller, then individuals with visual or dexterity disabilities could identify who was calling and decide whether or not to answer without having to fumble for the phone. In any case, makes scents to us.
It’s design of the times
What’s better than a mainstream product with accessibility features? Why, a whole Microsoft competition full of promising designs, of course. We particularly like the electronic music stand that allows score pages to be turned via touch screen or foot pedal, the bracelet that wirelessly uploads information, and the neck-worn PC that automatically captures exciting events on tape (audio or video?) whenever the user’s heart rate increases–all of which could be useful to people with various levels of dexterity disabilities. Also submitted was the previously-noted ZEN PC with its tactile interface.
Gizmodo: Next-Gen PC concepts include laser screens, tactile interfaces, glossiness
Rhythm in your fingers
The BodyBeat is a new type of metronome: instead of having that annoying pendulum and ticker, it sends silent electronic pulses directly to your body. Beethoven would’ve loved it, and we’ll bet the Gallaudet Dance Company will be pretty interested, too.
Extra credit
The three major credit reporting firms (Experian, Equifax, Transunion) just announced a deal with the American Council of the Blind to ensure that their website is accessible and their hard copy reports are made available in alternative formats. So now people with visual disabilities can more easily find out that they’re in as much financial trouble as everyone else…
Law Office of Lainey Feingold: Accessible Credit Reports Press Release
Android deserves augmented reality
Android, Google’s mobile development platform, has attracted a really useful app. Enkin takes your location, camera input, and other info, and renders a customized meaningful overlay: where your car is in the lot, where the nearest noodle shop is, etc. This kind of personal guidance would be tremendously valuable for those with cognitive disabilities, permitting independent living and travel. Add audio output and you have a wayfinding device for blind users.
Yet another Optimus Maximus Keyboard update
We’ve been posting about this keyboard-with-OLED-keys for quite a while now, and it’s finally gotten a review, with good pointers (like, wait for version 1.0 and a price drop). It seems that this thing is not really made for everyday typing, and you have to program it all yourself, but the display-keys really do work, and can even show movies (”Now playing on Backspace, Groundhog Day“)!
So consider how cool a nonvocal communication aid you could make, with animated inputs. And cognitive support galore.
Review: Ten Things You Need to Know About the Optimus Maximus Keyboard Hardware