Double Tap

Accessible Media Inc.

Double Tap is the show where blind people talk tech! If you’re blind or partially sighted and have an interest in technology, this is the show for you. Everyone is welcome no matter how old you are or how much or how little experience you have with technology. Each week the team will help you better understand how technology can help your everyday life, even if you have little or no sight. Join the conversation and add your voice to the show either by calling in, sending an email or leaving us a voicemail! Email: feedback@doubletaponair.com Phone: 1-877-803-4567 read less

Our Editor's Take

The Double Tap podcast shares tech news and reviews with the visually impaired community. Its hosts are Steven Scott and Shaun Preece. They invite everyone of all ages and levels of tech knowledge to join them. Here they all learn about accessible technology.

Steven is a radio host whose sight condition forced him to adapt to new technologies. When Steven discovers a new gadget, he's excited to share it with the broader community. Shaun is an audio producer who was born with a visual impairment. He has had to rely more on assistive technology as his vision has worsened. The podcast hosts met while on the UK show Tech Talk and bonded over their passion for technology.

Steven and Shaun share tips and reviews in each podcast episode to help improve daily life. In one, they discuss a fascinating tool, Annie, created to help with learning Braille. Annie is for blind and low-vision children to use by themselves. Product manager Andrew Flatres joins to discuss its features, design, and value. They praise its focus on self-education, although it can be shared in the classroom, too. What makes it unique is that it provides a fun, game-like format that is great for kids.

An ever-present topic within tech discussions is the future of AI. Steven and Shaun discuss how it may help the lives of the visually impaired community. There are voice features and image descriptions within ChatGPT that are already beneficial. The podcast hosts also talk about the need for regulations for this new and fast-paced technology.

The podcast discusses coping with sight loss and the language used to refer to the community. It also features questions and stories from listeners. One listener talks about disliking the term "blind." He states that it's often the only way he can explain his need for extra help. The more accurate term "partially sighted" doesn't result in the same support, he says.

The Double Tap podcast has product reviews, recommendations, and discussions in all areas. New episodes arrive Mondays through Saturdays.

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Best of YouTube: WeWalk Smart Cane 2 Extended Interview

Best of YouTube: WeWalk Smart Cane 2 Extended Interview

In this episode of Double Tap on YouTube, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss the WeWalk Smart Cane, version 2, with guests Joe Alfonso and Dr. Jean-Marc Feghali from WeWalk. In this extended interview, the guys delve into the history of WeWalk, the improvements made from version 1 to version 2, the key features of the new Smart Cane, including the voice assistant, obstacle detection, torch light, and more. They also touch on the WeAssist service, pricing, trade-in programs, and the user reactions at events like CSUN and Sight City. The hosts express their intrigue and skepticism, highlighting the importance of hands-on experience to truly understand the benefits and potential challenges of using the WeWalk Smart Cane. The discussion also explores the concept of using technology to enhance mobility devices while maintaining the core functionality of traditional canes. 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]

Episodes

Best of YouTube: WeWalk Smart Cane 2 Extended Interview

Best of YouTube: WeWalk Smart Cane 2 Extended Interview

In this episode of Double Tap on YouTube, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss the WeWalk Smart Cane, version 2, with guests Joe Alfonso and Dr. Jean-Marc Feghali from WeWalk. In this extended interview, the guys delve into the history of WeWalk, the improvements made from version 1 to version 2, the key features of the new Smart Cane, including the voice assistant, obstacle detection, torch light, and more. They also touch on the WeAssist service, pricing, trade-in programs, and the user reactions at events like CSUN and Sight City. The hosts express their intrigue and skepticism, highlighting the importance of hands-on experience to truly understand the benefits and potential challenges of using the WeWalk Smart Cane. The discussion also explores the concept of using technology to enhance mobility devices while maintaining the core functionality of traditional canes. 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]

WeWalk Smart Cane 2

WeWalk Smart Cane 2

In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss the latest version of the WeWalk SmartCane 2. They are joined by Dr. Jean-Marc Feghali and Joe Alfonso from WeWalk to explore the improvements made in the new device. The hosts talk about the history of WeWalk, the key learnings that led to version 2, and the features of the new SmartCane, such as improved design, tactile buttons, better sound quality, enhanced obstacle detection, and an intelligent voice assistant. The hosts also touch on the engagement with the partially sighted community, the WeAssist service, which connects users to professionally trained agents for visual assistance, and the trade-in program for users of the original WeWalk cane. Pricing details and availability of the new device are discussed, with information on how users can upgrade or purchase the WeWalk SmartCane 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.

Is Meta AI Available Outside Of The U.S. & Canada & Thinkerbell Labs 'Annie' Helps Blind Children Learn Braille

Is Meta AI Available Outside Of The U.S. & Canada & Thinkerbell Labs 'Annie' Helps Blind Children Learn Braille

In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss various topics, including the availability of Meta AI in different countries, the use of VPNs to gain access, and the experience of listeners with Meta AI glasses. Additionally, Allison Sheridan from the NosillaCast interviews Sanskriti Davle from Thinkerbell Labs about their product Annie, a Braille literacy device designed to help children learn Braille through interactive games and lessons. The interview highlights the features of Annie, its availability in different countries, and its educational benefits for children. 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.

PiccyBot Demo & Upcoming WWDC Coverage

PiccyBot Demo & Upcoming WWDC Coverage

In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss various topics, including sleep disorders, mainstream news stories, and upcoming technology events. They also share updates on YouTube videos and upcoming podcast episodes. Jenine Stanley joins the guys to provide a detailed demo of the PiccyBot app, showcasing its image and video description capabilities with different voices and personalities. Listeners share their experiences with PiccyBot on Android and discuss the availability of video description functionality. The potential uses and limitations of AI in audio description are also explored. 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 explore various topics based on feedback from listeners. They discuss the Oko app coming to Canada which offers accessible navigation features including a feature for safely crossing roads using pedestrian traffic lights. They also dive into the challenges faced by users of assistive technology, such as the Victor Reader Stream 3 requiring access to a computer for updates and the limitations faced in accessing certain technologies. The hosts also touched on the concept of disability pride, the practicality of using iPads for individuals, and the economic advantages of using iPhones as main computers. The episode featured listener feedback on topics ranging from self-driving cars to the importance of having the right accessories and apps for maximizing the use of 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.

Meta AI, Smart Mobility Aids & Shaun Goes Topless

Meta AI, Smart Mobility Aids & Shaun Goes Topless

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece begin with a a humorous discussion about being topless and feeling old. They then delve into the Recall feature in Windows 11, its potential implications, and the concerns about privacy and security. Listeners' emails discuss the excitement around the Meta Ray-Ban glasses, experiences with ChatGPT, and feedback on our interview with Amos Miller from Glidance. The episode concludes with a teaser for upcoming content, including an interview with the WeWalk team and a demo by Janine Stanley. 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.

Best of YouTube: Glidance Mobility, Be My Eyes Updates & Designing Tech For Everyone

Best of YouTube: Glidance Mobility, Be My Eyes Updates & Designing Tech For Everyone

In this episode of Double Tap on YouTube hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss updates to Be My Eyes, we find out about the new Glidance mobility aid everyone is excited about, and we chat design for everyone principles. Alongside the debut of its latest flagship model, GPT-4o, OpenAI introduced updates to Be My Eyes, a digital visual assistant designed to aid individuals who are blind or have partial sight. Initially integrated with ChatGPT in 2023, Be My Eyes leveraged OpenAI’s GPT-4 to convert visual input into text, providing written descriptions of surroundings through a camera, which were then read aloud by ChatGPT’s Voice Mode. Now integrated with GPT-4o, Be My Eyes benefits from the model’s GPT-4 level intelligence, which is faster and enhanced across text, voice, and vision capabilities. CEO Mike Buckley joins the guys to explain more. Amos Miller, the CEO and founder of Glidance, shares the details of his innovative autonomous self-guided mobility aid for the blind community with host Steven Scott, which is now available for pre-order with delivery expected later this year. The new device has been showcased around the world over the past year, and was most recently named the gold winner of the Assistive Technologies prize at the 2024 Edison Awards. CEO of Rebokeh, Rebecca Rossenberg, talks to Steven and Shaun about the concept of design for everyone and the challenges faced by companies in creating inclusive and accessible products. Rebecca discusses the need for a meaningful design for everyone approach that goes beyond just words. She emphasizes the importance of involving disabled people as crucial stakeholders in the early stages of development. 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

AMI's Joeita Gupta Wants A MacBook

AMI's Joeita Gupta Wants A MacBook

In this episode of Double Tap Steven and Shaun are joined by Michael Babcock to help AMI's Joeita Gupta with a dilemma - she is a long time Windows user who is considering a Mac - but is that the right device for her? They explore the potential benefits and challenges of using a MacBook, including considerations like system crashes, software compatibility, training resources, and the possibility of buyer's remorse. Joeita shares her experiences with Apple products, her motivations for considering a MacBook, and the importance of creating a separation between work and personal life. The conversation delves into the accessibility features of MacBooks, the potential for running Windows on a Mac, and the unique experiences of users who are blind in navigating technology. The episode provides insights into the decision-making process when choosing a new computer, highlighting the personal and practical factors to consider. The hosts also touch on the accessibility and inclusivity aspects of Apple products and the value of exploring new 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.

Be My AI Windows App Demo & AI and Accessibility With Colin Hughes

Be My AI Windows App Demo & AI and Accessibility With Colin Hughes

In this episode, Steven and Shaun discuss various topics related to accessibility and AI. Shaun is on hand with a demo of the new Be My AI app on Windows, and they both explore the recent Rabbit R1 controversy. They also dive into the potential of AI to improve voice recognition, enhance smart assistants like Siri, and provide employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities with disability advocate Colin Hughes.They touch on the challenges and advancements in AI technology, such as voice cloning, personalized speech recognition, and the future of mainstream tech in accessibility. Colin also shared insights on the role of AI in employment, the impact of voice control tools like Dragon and voice assistants, and the potential of AI to revolutionize accessibility in the future. 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.

Glidance Pricing Revealed & Steven Cleans His Coffee Machine

Glidance Pricing Revealed & Steven Cleans His Coffee Machine

In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece catch up with Amos Millar from Glidance to discuss the latest updates on the Glidance device. They delve into the pricing details, including an early adopter offer, and explore the importance of engaging with members of the blind community in the development of assistive technologies. The conversation highlights the significance of community engagement and user feedback in creating impactful and user-friendly assistive technologies. The guys engage in a candid discussion, reflecting on the complexities and opportunities in the development and adoption of assistive devices for the blind and partially sighted 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.

Be My Eyes Updates & The Pace Of AI Development

Be My Eyes Updates & The Pace Of AI Development

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive into the latest in accessible tech with a special focus on AI developments for the blind and partially sighted community, bringing in Mike Buckley, CEO of Be My Eyes, who shares big updates about GPT-4O and a new Windows app designed to enhance accessibility. Mike explains how GPT-4O, a multimodal AI, can describe visual environments in real-time, potentially revolutionizing independence for users. They even play a clip demonstrating this technology in action, describing London's landmarks to a person through AI. Additionally, they discuss the new Windows app by Be My Eyes, designed to describe on-screen content and assist with tasks like video calls, enhancing workplace accessibility. The episode wraps up with listener Negative Julian's interaction on the pace of AI development and its implications for the blind and partially sighted community, leaving listeners with much to anticipate in tech advancements. 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.

And We're Back!

And We're Back!

In this episode, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece are back from their break, diving into a mix of personal adventures and the latest in accessible technology. Steven shares his travel tales from a recent trip to Canada, where he explored Toronto, Calgary, Banff and Vancouver. Steven found the Meta Ray-Ban Frames smart glasses indispensable for capturing memories, despite their limited battery life. The glasses' ability to record and download videos to his phone proved invaluable for preserving the trip's highlights. Shaun, on the other hand, discusses his recent experiences with technology, including anticipation for trying out the new Be My Eyes Windows app. The conversation shifts to the latest tech news that broke during their hiatus, notably the Microsoft Surface event and the introduction of AI features in Windows, such as the recall function that tracks every action on the computer. They express excitement about the potential of these new developments, despite privacy concerns, and ponder how Apple will respond to these advancements in AI and processing power. The episode also touches on other tech updates, including the pre-order announcement for Glidance, a new AI-powered navigation aid for the visually impaired, and updates to the Sonos app that initially frustrated many users, including those relying on accessibility features. 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.

Best of YouTube: More on Vision Pro, Gaming & Travelling Blind

Best of YouTube: More on Vision Pro, Gaming & Travelling Blind

In this podcast episode, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece cover a variety of topics, including the Apple Vision Pro, the potential of AI technology, and the accessibility features of gaming consoles. They begin by discussing the upcoming Apple Vision Pro and its accessibility features, delving into the potential impact on visually impaired users. The hosts also analyze the potential of AI technology, the fatigue associated with constantly evolving tech, and the accessibility features of gaming consoles. Moving on to the topic of travelling, the hosts talk about the challenges faced by blind individuals when navigating short distances, such as going to the shop or taking public transportation. They discuss the anxiety and frustration that comes with short-distance travel and the importance of attitude and planning in overcoming these challenges. Additionally, the hosts explore the availability of assistance and the necessity of leaving one's comfort zone to face these challenges effectively. They note that these issues are not limited to blindness and can be experienced by others with disabilities or older individuals. The episode concludes with an emphasis on the importance of open dialogue and sharing experiences in addressing these challenges in a supportive and understanding manner.

Best of YouTube: Double Tap on YouTube, Moovit App & New Mira Flex Shower

Best of YouTube: Double Tap on YouTube, Moovit App & New Mira Flex Shower

In the podcast episode with hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, the main topics discussed were the public transit app called Moovit, the new Myra Select Flex shower, and the launch of the Double Tap YouTube channel. In the first part of the episode, they were joined by Zeev Kabaretti, VP of Products at Move, who discussed how the app helps users navigate public transportation in over 3,500 cities and 110 countries by providing real-time information on transit modes and arrival times. He also highlighted the app's unique community of contributors, its impact on environmental sustainability, and the use of AI to make public transportation more understandable and accessible. The second part of the episode featured Susanna Adé, marketing manager at Myra Showers UK, and Robin Spinks, head of inclusive design at RNIB, discussing the development and inclusive design of the new Myra Select Flex shower. They emphasized the importance of accessibility and user feedback in the product's design process, detailing features such as high contrast surfaces and easy-to-use temperature controls. In the final segment, Scott and Preece announced the launch of the Double Tap YouTube channel, where they plan to share content related to technology and accessibility. They discussed the potential for the channel to reach a wider audience and provide a platform for community interaction.

Best of YouTube: Vision Pro, Vocaster Two & Experiencing The Las Vegas Sphere

Best of YouTube: Vision Pro, Vocaster Two & Experiencing The Las Vegas Sphere

In this episode of the podcast with hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, the main topics discussed included the accessibility and features of the Apple Vision Pro headset, as well as a review of the Vocaster 2 audio interface. They also explored the importance of accessibility features in audio production and the experience of using the Sphere, a virtual reality exhibit, from the perspective of someone who is partially sighted. The hosts and guest, James Rath, began by discussing the Apple Vision Pro headset and its potential impact on blind and partially sighted individuals. They delved into the features, accessibility, and applications of the device, touching on the improvements in VR experiences for those with low vision and explaining the benefits of the Vision Pro's camera and eye tracking capabilities. They continued with an in-depth discussion of the Vocaster Two audio interface, emphasizing its simplicity and tactile buttons and comparing it to other audio interfaces. The conversation highlighted the role of accessibility features in audio production, including the need for tactile controls and accessible software. The episode also addressed the experience of using the Sphere, a virtual reality exhibit, from a low vision perspective and how the AI-powered Eyes app provided audio descriptions and immersive sound effects for the exhibit.

Best of YouTube: Getting Around Using Smart Tech, AI for Companionship & Siri Improvements

Best of YouTube: Getting Around Using Smart Tech, AI for Companionship & Siri Improvements

In this episode of the Double Tap podcast, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss a variety of topics related to technology and accessibility. They start by exploring the use of personal AI and the advancements in AI technology that allow for more human-like interactions, as well as the limitations and accessibility concerns associated with these AI tools. The hosts also touch upon the development of AI companionship and the potential for AI to provide support for individuals with mental health needs. They discuss the challenges and possibilities that come with using AI as a companion, particularly when it comes to providing support for those in isolation. Stephen and Shaun also delve into the latest advancements in AI and voice assistant technology, specifically focusing on Siri and its potential for improvements in future updates. They share their thoughts on the role of AI in the future of technology and accessibility, and whether the current trends in AI development are meeting the needs and expectations of those who are blind or partially sighted.. The episode concludes with a discussion on tech solutions for mobility needs, including the use of smart canes and other devices designed to assist individuals who are blind or visually impaired. The hosts express their concerns about the effectiveness and practicality of these tech solutions and the need for community feedback and involvement in product development.

Best of YouTube: Simulating Sight Loss & Distraction Free Typing

Best of YouTube: Simulating Sight Loss & Distraction Free Typing

In this podcast episode, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss a variety of topics, including the use of simulation glasses, and the accessibility of distraction-free writing devices for blind and partially sighted users. The hosts open their conversation by discussing the use of simulation glasses, also known as sim specs, and the experience of sighted individuals wearing these glasses to replicate the visual impairments of people with conditions like retinitis pigmentosa. They explore the implications of such simulations and the potential for technology, such as AI, to create accurate and inclusive representations of visual impairment. They also discuss the use of distraction-free writing devices, such as the Alpha Freewrite, and the lack of accessibility consideration in these products, calling for more inclusive design and features like audio output for users.

Best of YouTube: Online Dating & Technology Fatigue

Best of YouTube: Online Dating & Technology Fatigue

In this episode of the Double Tap YouTube podcast, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece are joined by special guest Fern Lulham to discuss online dating and the experience for blind and low vision people. The hosts and guest explore the evolution of online dating and the ways in which technology has impacted the dating landscape. They delve into the practicalities and challenges of blind people navigating the world of dating apps and websites, and the safety concerns that arise in the online dating space. The conversation transitions to a discussion about technology fatigue and the challenges blind and low vision people face in adopting new tech products, particularly in the context of Apple's new Vision Pro product. The hosts share their concerns about the resources allocated to developing products that are accessible to the blind community and question whether the potential benefits of new tech products outweigh the practical use and accessibility for blind and low vision users. The hosts express their apprehensions about the future of technology for blind and low vision individuals, particularly in the context of spatial computing and VR. They discuss their reservations about the focus on visual-centric products and the potential exclusion of blind and low vision users from the benefits of new technology.

Global Accessibility Awareness Day

Global Accessibility Awareness Day

In this podcast episode with hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, the main topics discussed revolve around Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) and the impact and importance of accessibility in digital products. The hosts reflect on the significance of GAAD and how it's celebrated on social media but also express concern about companies' genuine commitment to accessibility. They interview Joe Devon, one of the co-founders of GAAD, and discuss the origins and impact of the initiative.

Best of YouTube: Rabbit R1, Project Tapestry & Your Feedback

Best of YouTube: Rabbit R1, Project Tapestry & Your Feedback

In the podcast episode with hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, the main topics discussed were Rabbit R1, a new AI device, the Project Tapestry, and the use of distraction-free devices, gaming consoles, and various tech topics with community comments. The hosts explored these topics by providing an overview of new technological devices and their potential impact, discussing the importance of accessibility, and highlighting the need for involving individuals with disabilities in conversations about technology and innovation. The hosts had a conversation with a guest, Robin Christopherson from AbilityNet UK, about the Rabbit R1, an AI device with innovative capabilities. They explained its features, including the large action model and its potential impact on accessibility for people with disabilities. They also discussed the significance of involving individuals with disabilities in the development of new technology. In another segment, they explored the Project Tapestry, a new application designed to create a unified timeline for different social media platforms and news feeds. The hosts and a guest, Gideon Mehew, discussed the importance of accessibility for devices like the Project Tapestry and the potential impact they could have on users. The hosts also delved into various community comments discussing the use of guide dog and guide horse schools, the accessibility of distraction-free typewriters, the experience of playing games without sight, and the importance of involving individuals with lived experiences in discussions about technology and innovation.