Teen talk
Since teens theoretically spend all day text messaging anyway, why not take advantage of the technology to remind them to take medications? A pilot program in Cincinnati has volunteers typing reminder messages at set times of the day–with all words spelled out so they won’t be mistaken for BAU from BFFs. Given the rise in conditions such as asthma that are affecting kids, we say :)
Control version
Designer David Chacon has come up with a small remote for controlling devices all over the house. Besides the convenience for people with mobility disabilities, we particularly like the large, intuitive iconography–no reading capability required–and the potential for creating custom icons for specific products.
Dvice: Universal remote concept reminds us of the all-in-one gadget dream
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)
Well-defined technology
Portable electronic dictionaries have been around for some time to help kids (and adults), particularly those with learning disabilities. Now Sharp has released their own version imbued with that trickiest of product features–coolness. Besides providing word definitions (in adjustable font sizes? with audio output?), it also functions as an MP3 and video player, and throws in twenty audio books too. So we assume the next time a hit tune includes words like “truttaceous” in its lyrics, it should be trivial for listeners to get a definition on the spot.
Gadgetell: Sharp’s RD-CX310 PMP turns you into walking, talking, rocking dictionary
Quickies at MIT
Quickies combine the best features of Post-It Notes and software. An RFID tag is attached to each Post-It, enabling heretofore unrealized capabilities, via computer, such as tracking where you left a note (great cognitive aid!) and pulling up a list of all notes that contain a specific word. Just a gleam in MIT researchers’ eyes for now.
See SPOT fail…
Sounds like the SPOT Personal Tracker would have been right up our alley; it was designed to allow users to upload real-time tracking data and to work in areas with no cellular service. In addition, it has a simple interface, with buttons for direct access to 911 and to “Help” that are nicely arranged, and a good gripping surface. Unfortunately, its GPS capabilities don’t rate well. Back to ye olde drawing board.
Effective snowball
At this time of year, the primary concern of kids (and selected adults) who use wheelchairs might well be: how can I get into that snowball fight in the backyard? A new device seems perfect for creating the necessary ammunition. It looks like a meatballer on growth hormone, and has the additional benefit of letting you scoop and watch the enemy at the same time. Not so effective in California.