Dan's Ease of Access Blog : Vendor Accessibility

Assistive Technology Vendors highlighted

danhub — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 02:47:00 GMT

A recent Seattle Times article highlights some of Microsoft's Assistive Technology vendor program members. I think all of these companies are super cool and on the right track technology wise. I think the mobile platform is one area where AT can help everyone. The physical form and changing environment of most mobile devices make it extremely hard most people to be as productive with thier device as they could be. AT can play a big part in making the experience of using a device easier. Ever try to read the screen of your phone in broad daylight? The glare can make it impossible. But what if you had a feature that would read the screen to you when it sensed it was too bright outside to see the screen? Suddenly people who are blind arent the only users of screenreading software. As i mentioned in my previous post, Dolphin, who is highlighted in the article, will be releasing Smart Hal, a screenreader for smartphones, in the near future. I can't wait to try it.

Coming soon...Smart Hal

danhub — Mon, 19 Mar 2007 07:21:00 GMT

Dave Williams from one of our partner companies, Dolphin Computer Access, has a Blog where he is counting down to the release of Smart Hal. Smart Hal is a screenreader for Windows Mobile based Smartphones. In his most recent post he talks about why Dolphin chose to develop for Windows Mobile.

I can't wait to try this out on my Cingular 3125 Smartphone. Hopefully Dave will hook me up when I see him next week. Dolphin will be at the CSUN conference next week and has a session where they will be demoing Smart Hal. I hate to admit it but I could see using this while I am commuting. Imagine having access to your cell phone without having to look at it! What I am wondering is, will Smart Hal read the traffic report from SmartPhlow.

Vista ships...record number of AT products available at launch

danhub — Mon, 05 Feb 2007 01:41:00 GMT

On Tuesday Windows Vista finally shipped to consumers. For a list of compatible Assistive Technology products go to the Microsoft AT search tool (http://www.microsoft.com/enable/at/search.aspx) and select Windows Vista in the "Compatibe With" field. As of this writing there are 71 listed products available for download or purchase.

Here are some other key announcements in the AT industry...

Also make sure to listen to the archive of the Jan 30th broadcast of Main Menu on ACB radio, where I was interviewed about Vista. The archive of the show should post shortly.

-dan

IE7 Accessibility

danhub — Tue, 07 Nov 2006 22:52:00 GMT

Kelly Ford, a tester for the IE team, has posted some great information about IE7 and the compatibility with a number of Assistive Technologies including JAWS, Window-Eyes, Zoomtext and several Dolphin products. Visit the IE Blog for his entire summary and overview.

(edited for content 3/21)

Interview on CRIS radio

danhub — Tue, 07 Nov 2006 22:21:00 GMT

Last week I was interviewed by Jeremy Curry from GW Micro for the monthly 'On the Move' radio show that he hosts. It is being broadcast later today. You can find more information at AOL Ability. Or go directly to the Chicago Lighthouse website.

Jeremy and I discuss the upcoming releases of Microsoft Office and Windows Vista, and how changes with these new versions will make it easier for blind and low vision users to work with the computer.

If you have any questions regarding the program please send me email.

-dan

Microsoft Vendor Program Open Enrollment

danhub — Wed, 01 Nov 2006 19:15:00 GMT

November is open enrollment for companies to apply for membership into the Assistive Technology Vendor Program. For more information about requirements or to request an application, please visit the Microsoft Accessibility Website.