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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 accessi

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 f

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 inclusiv

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 sig

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 cr

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,

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 a

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 Silkti

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. (St

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 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

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

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 voic

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.

Today on the show, Steven and Shaun dive into the big news from Aira and the Microsoft Surface event. Starting with the Microsoft Surface event, they discuss the unveiling of the Surface Pro 10 and Surface Laptop 6, specifically designed for business use. This sparks a debate about the relevance and excitement around Microsoft's offerings, especially in a world where Mac and PC users fiercely defend their choices. The introduction of a Copilot key on select Surface models stirs a mix of curiosity and skepticism, highlighting the growing influence of AI in everyday tech. There's also more news from CSUN's Assistive Technology Conference as it wraps up for another year, with Grace Scoffield bringing us news of updates from Be My Eyes, Aira, Orbit Research, HIMS International and more. The show focuses on the Aira announcement as Steven and Shaun welcome CEO of AIRA, Troy Otillio and Jenine Stanley from the company to share their news of a new Access AI feature that is rolling out to users worldwide as a beta

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive into the world of Windows ahead of Microsoft's Surface event, sharing their experiences, preferences, and some friendly banter about the perennial Windows vs. Mac debate. To explore this in more detail, they bring on guest Robin Christopherson, who shares his transition from Mac to Windows, driven by his workplace's decision. Christopherson discusses his adaptation to Windows 11, his continued use of a Mac keyboard, and his experiences with Windows' built-in accessibility features, particularly praising the natural voices in Narrator. Listener Marco, from Germany, shares his reasons for switching to Mac, emphasizing the Apple ecosystem's convenience, his struggles with Windows PCs, and a desire for a change after retiring from a career deeply intertwined with Windows 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 on social media.