Episodios

  • Your Feedback & Bt Speak Vs Orbit Speak - You Decide
    Apr 30 2025

    Today on Double Tap, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece open the listener inbox and tackle a wide range of accessible tech topics, real-world product experiences, and your feedback.

    We kick off with Steven’s first impressions of the Stellar Trek GPS device from HumanWare, praising its high-quality speakers and intuitive voice selection interface. Then, we shift gears into a conversation about the Meta Ray-Ban glasses and updates from Meta’s LlamaCon event, including the rebranding of the MetaView app to Meta AI.

    Chapter Markers:
    00:00 Introduction
    02:51 Meta Ray-Ban Glasses and AI Developments
    06:11 Google I.O. and Hardware Expectations
    09:03 AI Competition: Google vs. Meta vs. Apple
    15:04 Listener Feedback and Community Engagement
    17:54 Discussion on BT Speak Pro vs. Orbit Speak
    36:11 Comparing BT Speak Pro and OrbitSpeak
    39:30 Exploring Built-in Applications
    44:46 Community and Support for Users
    49:11 User Experience and Preferences
    52:35 Orbit Player Overview

    Next, the discussion heats up around the future of smart glasses, speculating on Google's upcoming announcements at Google I/O and potential new hardware launches. We also touch on the evolving landscape of AI tools, the growth of Gemini, Copilot, and ChatGPT, and frustrations around poorly communicated app updates.

    From there, we dive into listener feedback, covering accessible glucose monitors, a surprising redemption for Samsung's Bixby assistant, frustrations with AI voice apps needing a “stop listening” command, and a call for better website access to Double Tap content.

    Special guest Lisa Salinger joins to deliver an in-depth, real-world comparison between the BT Speak Pro and the Orbit Speak. If you've been considering these devices, Lisa shares critical differences, user experiences, and practical advice to help you decide which one could best fit your needs.

    Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.

    Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website

    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

    Más Menos
    56 m
  • Apple VoiceOver Turns 20 + Google Nest Accessibility Disaster
    Apr 29 2025

    Today on Double Tap, Steven Scott and Sean Preece react to Google’s announcement that it will discontinue cloud support for the first- and second-generation Nest thermostats — a major accessibility blow for blind users. They discuss the implications for smart home reliability and urge companies to prioritize accessibility from the start.

    We also celebrate the 20th anniversary of Apple’s VoiceOver, sharing personal reflections and hearing from Mike Shebanek, who helped bring built-in accessibility to Apple products.Finally, Aaron Linson joins Steven to give an in-depth user review of the Stellar Trek from Humanware. Learn how this standalone navigation device compares to smartphones, how it handles GPS directions, traffic signals, and even reads short texts and doors with its AI features. If you’ve ever wondered whether dedicated tech still has a place alongside smartphones, this conversation is for you.

    [Chapters]
    0:00 – Intro: Nest Thermostat Accessibility Outrage
    2:15 – How Smart Home Devices Risk Becoming Inaccessible
    5:40 – Why Accessible Design Must Be Baked In
    7:08 – Apple’s VoiceOver Turns 20
    9:23 – Mike Shebanek on VoiceOver’s Origin at Apple
    14:06 – How the iPhone Changed Accessibility Forever
    18:32 – Accessibility Features in Early iPhones
    20:44 – Introducing the Stellar Trek
    22:45 – Why Apps Alone Aren’t Enough for Navigation
    25:13 – How the Stellar Trek Works for Blind Travelers
    29:56 – Real World Navigation with Stellar Trek
    32:19 – How Stellar Trek Provides Richer Location Info
    36:58 – New AI Traffic Light and Bus Stop Detection
    39:21 – Should You Still Buy a Pro iPhone for LIDAR?
    44:05 – Affordability, Technology Reliance, and Spread the Load
    47:40 – Book Reader and Short Text Features on Stellar Trek
    50:01 – Why Dedicated Devices Still Matter
    54:33 – The Value of Environmental Awareness When Traveling
    56:58 – Wrapping Up: More Stellar Trek User Q&A to Come

    [Key Quotes]
    “Accessibility has to be in everybody’s mind at all times.” — Steven Scott
    “If one update breaks accessibility, that’s it — you’re stuck.” — Aaron Linson
    “VoiceOver being built in changed everything — no extra cost, no extra software.” — Kelly MacDonald
    “The Stellar Trek lets me explore what’s around me, not just navigate point-to-point.” — Aaron Linson

    [Relevant Links]
    Humanware Stellar Trek: https://www.humanware.com/en-usa/home
    Learn more about Apple VoiceOver: https://www.apple.com/accessibility/vision/

    #DoubleTap #AccessibilityTech #BlindTechnology

    Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website

    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

    Más Menos
    56 m
  • The Meta Glasses Rollercoaster, Accessible Washing Machines & The Blind Uniform
    Apr 28 2025

    In today’s honest and lively Double Tap episode, Steven and Shaun explore why "everything feels terrible" in tech—and how it especially impacts accessibility.

    The hosts open up about frustrating tech failures, from Steven’s Windows settings reset to Shaun’s struggles with Amazon Fire tablets and Meta Ray-Ban glasses. Listeners share first-hand experiences with the unreliable rollout of Meta AI Look and Tell and the erratic MetaView app behavior, offering valuable workarounds and tips.

    Later, Steven and Shaun discuss Apple's shifting marketing around Apple Intelligence, the hidden hardware requirements for new AI features, and their skepticism about the iPhone 17 rumors.

    Listener emails bring a range of fresh topics: accessible washing machines from brands like Bosch and Samsung, using HDMI dongles for audio output, thoughts on the "blind uniform," and hilarious and heartfelt personal stories about sunglasses, glass eyes, and public perceptions of blindness.

    This episode highlights the community’s resilience, humor, and resourcefulness in the face of tech’s many frustrations.

    Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.

    Chhapter Markers:
    00:00 Introduction: The Struggles of Technology
    05:46 Meta Ray-Ban Glasses: Updates and Issues
    15:19 User Experiences: A Mixed Bag
    27:46 Exploring AI Glasses and Their Practical Uses
    30:08 User Experiences and Feedback on Accessibility Features
    32:51 Navigating Privacy Settings in Tech Devices
    33:20 Accessible Washing Machines: A Community Discussion
    39:05 The Blind Uniform: Identity and Perception

    Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website

    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

    Más Menos
    56 m
  • Split Tap Surprise: Fire Tablets Beat Android Flagships
    Apr 25 2025

    Today’s Double Tap takes a deep dive into the accessibility quirks of tech—past, present, and speculative future. Steven and Shaun start off with a passionate breakdown of split tapping, a handy VoiceOver gesture on iOS, and the surprising discovery that Amazon Fire tablets now support it, even when premium Android phones don’t.

    The hosts then discuss the usability of Fire tablets for blind users, highlighting quirks in VoiceView, audio issues, Kindle’s restrictions, and performance pros and cons—especially for budget-conscious buyers.

    Then it’s onto AI: the team explores Perplexity AI’s new voice assistant features, including how it can send emails directly from iPhone, potentially challenging mainstream assistants like Siri. The hosts ask: is Apple’s AI development lagging, and will it drive blind users to Android?

    Listener emails dive into everything from language policing in the blind community to old-school laser printers, .vip domains, access to apps like HapticNav, and whether Brother printers really are the best.

    Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.

    Relevant Links:

    • Amazon Fire Tablet Accessibility
    • Perplexity AI
    • InnoSearch.ai
    • Brother HL-2400DW Printer
    • HapticNav (via Access On/NFB)

    Chapter Markers:
    00:00 Introduction
    02:45 Exploring the Amazon Fire Tablet
    12:37 Discussion on Language and Terminology in Disability
    28:12 Exploring Perplexity: The AI Research Tool
    36:37 Navigating the Android vs. iOS Debate
    40:24 User Experiences with AI and Accessibility
    46:41 Transitioning to New Technology: A Personal Journey
    50:52 Printer Recommendations and Tech Tips

    Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website

    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

    Más Menos
    56 m
  • Apple & Meta Get Big EU Fines & Stellar Trek Gets Major Updates
    Apr 24 2025

    First up, Steven shares his frustrating but relatable journey setting up a flatbed scanner via a virtual machine on his Mac Studio to read medical documents privately. The hosts reflect on the pros and cons of returning to older, more reliable tech versus the convenience of modern scanning apps—and the risks to privacy they may pose.

    Then it's onto major tech headlines: Apple and Meta face significant EU fines under the Digital Markets Act. The duo explores what these penalties mean for users, developer freedom, and privacy, while questioning whether they truly change the playing field.

    Finally, the spotlight turns to HumanWare’s Stellar Trek. A brand-new update introduces book library access, pedestrian traffic light detection, and text export features, making this powerful navigation tool even more valuable for blind users. Plus, Steven is getting hands-on with the device soon—with support this time!

    The show wraps up with listener feedback on EasyReader login issues, the RNIB reading service interface, and the personal benefits of learning Braille. As always, the community voices shine with insight and humor.

    Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.

    Relevant Links:

    • HumanWare Stellar Trek
    • Digital Markets Act – European Commission
    • RNIB Reading Services
    • EasyReader App by Dolphin
    • Descriptive Video Works
    • CBS Audio Description Information

    Chapter Markers:
    00:00 Introduction
    02:56 Exploring Meta Ray-Ban Glasses and Scanning Technology
    06:11 Virtual Machines and Tech Setup Challenges
    08:59 Navigating Medical Documents and Scanning Solutions
    15:00 Big Tech Fines: Apple and Meta's Legal Troubles
    17:47 Humanware's Stellar Trek: New Features and Innovations
    32:28 Listener Feedback: Challenges and Solutions
    35:43 Accessibility in Digital Services: A Critical Review
    51:37 The Importance of Braille: Personal Experiences and Insights

    Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website

    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

    Más Menos
    56 m
  • Your Feedback: Swearing Smart Assistants, Neuralink Curiosity, and Cane Tip Tips
    Apr 23 2025

    In this episode of Double Tap, Steven and Shaun are back—caffeinated, opinionated, and tackling everything from accessibility to identity. Kicking things off, Steven shares how his Apple Watch health alerts, though sometimes dismissed by doctors, played a crucial role in keeping his health in check. They explore how smartwatches—despite not being medical-grade—offer critical health insights and peace of mind.

    The discussion moves from tech to identity, challenging the notion of “blind pride” and debating whether it’s fair—or even helpful—to claim that being blind is a “blessing.” The hosts share their personal perspectives on disability acceptance, the emotional highs and lows of navigating blindness, and why one-size-fits-all narratives don’t work.

    Listener emails round out the show, including a powerful question from a listener new to vision loss: iPhone or Android—which smartphone is better for accessibility? Steven and Shaun offer a thorough comparison of TalkBack and VoiceOver, app ecosystems, device pricing, and community support. Other listeners share thoughts on cane tips, orientation techniques, accessible recipe apps, and even whether swearing smart assistants signal progress or gimmick.

    It’s a lively, honest, and often hilarious episode with valuable insight for anyone navigating life with vision loss or supporting someone who is.

    Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.

    Chapter Markers:
    00:00 Introduction
    09:05 The Role of AI in Accessibility and Communication
    11:54 Accessibility in Smartphones: iPhone vs. Android
    23:50 Support Networks and Learning Curves for New Users
    27:42 Choosing Between Android and iPhone
    28:49 User Experiences with Cane Tips
    44:45 Navigating Recipe Apps and Accessibility
    46:38 The Debate on Blindness and Vision
    53:11 Acceptance and Perspectives on Blindness

    Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website

    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

    Más Menos
    56 m
  • Your Feedback: EchoVision, Braille’s Future & Windows ARM
    Apr 22 2025

    In this episode of Double Tap, Steven and Shaun return to the inbox to read listener feedback and share deeply personal experiences—starting with Steven's recent hospital stay. From insensitive medical staff to outdated assumptions about blind people, Steven unpacks the emotional highs and lows of navigating healthcare while visually impaired.

    The pair also dig into big tech topics, including listener reviews of Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 versus Pixel Watch, the pros and cons of angle gestures in Android, and the realities of using a Windows laptop with an ARM processor. Plus, there’s an honest look at the Echo Vision smart glasses, the Glidance mobility aid, and whether blind users should still invest time in learning braille.

    You’ll hear passionate listener opinions—from frustration over UEB to support for Fairlight (Ferret-ight?) audio editing on iPad. There’s even a touching shout-out from an eight-year-old fan who thinks Sean deserves top billing!

    Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.

    Chapter Markers:
    00:00 Introduction
    02:51 Navigating Medical Environments
    06:13 Attitudes Towards Blindness
    09:06 Parenting and Blindness
    11:55 Listener Interactions and Accessibility Tech
    25:06 Windows ARM Experience
    37:20 Navigating Accessibility Tools
    43:08 The Braille Debate: Relevance and Education
    52:05 Exploring Kindle and Fire Tablet Accessibility

    Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website

    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

    Más Menos
    56 m
  • Meta AI In UK, Glide Experiences & RNIB Updates Us On Free Personal Transcription
    Apr 21 2025

    In today’s Double Tap, Steven and Shaun dive into the rollout chaos of Meta’s Look and Tell AI feature in smart glasses—and why UK users are still stuck in limbo. Steven shares how he finally got access, while Shaun continues to battle the “not available in your region” message. Could VPNs be the culprit?

    Also in this episode, Steven opens up about a health scare triggered by his Apple Watch's heart rate alerts, which landed him in hospital. He shares his experience and offers a reminder about the life-saving value of wearable tech.

    Plus, the hosts react to RNIB’s response to backlash over discontinuing free personal braille transcription services. They explore what the charity’s pivot really means for blind users and question the broader role of sight loss organizations in today's accessibility landscape.

    Listener messages flood in, with first-hand reports from Glide demo days in the UK and US. Callum, James, and Stuart all weigh in on how Glide’s tech compares to traditional white canes and guide dogs—and why public perception may still be a barrier to adoption.

    Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.

    YouTube Description:
    Meta’s Look and Tell AI is rolling out—unless you're in the UK. Steven shares how he finally accessed it, while Shaun is still left waiting. Plus, Steven reveals a health scare caught by his Apple Watch. Also: RNIB responds to Braille service backlash, and listener feedback on Glide mobility tech rolls in from across the globe.

    Chapter Markers:
    00:00 Introduction
    02:54 The Struggles with Meta AI Availability
    05:47 Exploring the Features of Meta AI
    08:55 Personal Health Update
    12:08 RNIB's Changes to Personal Transcription Services
    14:58 Debate on Accessibility and Organizational Responsibilities
    39:07 iOS Access Book Insights
    41:05 Glide Device Experiences
    52:50 Public Perception of New Mobility Aids

    Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website

    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

    Más Menos
    56 m
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