My Tech News: Winter 2022

My Technology News: Winter 2022

Contributed by Jerry Price, Assistive Technology Training Coordinator 

Winter 2022

A Service of the Technology User Group

at the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled

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Finding Audio Described Content

Many individuals who are low vision or blind find audio described programming to be useful and informative.  There are several ways to gain access to audio descriptive content:

• Use the SAP button on your TV remote.  Many television providers such as ABC, CBS and others must make a certain percentage of their content accessible to the blind.  While this content is being played on the air, a second audio program track accompanies the video.  This track can be accessed by the SAP function on the TV.  Many Spanish language programs are also accessed in this manner, so turning the SAP function on and leaving it on may not be the best option.

• Services such as Netflix, Disney Plus and Amazon Prime Video have an extensive array of shows and movies that have audio description.  The feature can be turned on either in Settings or while the program is playing using the audio options in Menu.

• Spectrum Access provides a free app to smart phone users that will play audio described content while a program is being played or streamed.  The app currently has limited programming available, but it is growing daily.

• Blind Mice Mart, a web-based platform, offers audio described content to registered users.  Visit www.blindmicemart.com to sign up.  You will have access to thousands of movie titles.  The content is only available as an MP3 file and must be downloaded and played using your computer or a third-party device.

• YouTube also offers audio described content.  Be sure to look for audio described movies and shows by using “audio description” as part of your search string.

• Finally, the American Council for the Blind has a master list of all audio described movies either currently available in theaters or archived.  See it here at ADP Master List of Audio Described Videos (acb.org).

Android Users Have Access to Ultimate Alexa

Alexa is the operating system that Amazon created to operate the Echo series of products such as Dots, Flexes and Shows.  Now there is an app for Android users that will allow them the full power of Alexa.  By installing the app, users can have access to their Kindle content and Audible books, make hands-free calling, and use many other skills that Alexa provides.  There is also a pro version that will allow even easier access to this operating platform.  Interested parties should visit the Google Play Store.

Wearables

Wearables are technology devices that you wear that transmit data and receive information useful to the wearer.  Such devices include watches, glasses, vests, and arms.  The most popular types of wearables are the Apple watch, Fitbit fitness trackers, smart glasses such as Amazon Frames, and augmented reality headsets.

There are also devices to make the wearer conscious of low-hanging branches or other obstacles in your path.  For more on this subject, check out the Technology User Group meeting on Saturday, June 11th.

IOS Gesture This Issue:

Quadruple Tap with 2 Fingers 

The quadruple tap with 2 fingers gesture will open Voiceover Quick Settings.  You can swipe to the right with one finger to go through your options, and then make changes.  Just remember to double tap with one finger on the Done Button if you have made any adjustments.

Siri Assist

Siri can help you find apps on the App Store.  You can say “Siri, Find the Be My Eyes app on App Store” or “Siri, find BARD Mobile on App Store.”  This step will save you a lot of typing because all you will need to do is swipe to the right with one finger, find the app you want, and double tap on the Get button, which will appear after the name of the app.  Once the Get button is pressed, swipe to the right with one finger until you hear Install, and then double tap with one finger.

A possible barrier to this easy process may occur when users have turned on the Apple password requirement for all purchases.  Apple passwords are often somewhat complicated text that require memory and skill to input.  When you are a novice user, I recommend that you bypass this process when it comes to free apps.  Here is how:

• Tell Siri to open Settings.

• Swipe to the right with one finger to find your name.

• Swipe to the right and double tap with one finger on Media and Purchases.

• Find Password Settings, then choose the setting that you want.

Battery Bases for Echo Products

GGMM manufactures battery bases for the Echo Dot 3 and 4 as well as for the Echo Show 5.  These bases are not universal, so exercise caution when purchasing the item.  The cost is around $30 and will give your Echo product the flexibility to be used outdoors or in other open areas of your home.  A Wi-Fi source is always needed.

Upcoming Virtual Technology Events

All events may be joined by calling 319-527-4994.  Archived recordings may be found by visiting the Technology User Group section on the LBPD website:  www.lbph.maryland.gov.

Mar. 12:  Using the GPS in the Victor Reader Trek

Thinking of upgrading to the Victor Reader Trek?  Before you buy, see if the built-in GPS is worth the extra expense.

 

​Apr. 9:  Grocery delivery services and websites

Yes, there are plenty of delivery services, and if you are a tech guru, you have access to all of them.  But what if you don’t have those skills and still need grocery delivery?

 

​May 14:  Premium services using Alexa and Google

Alexa and Google are adding premium services to their skill sets.  How do you subscribe to these services and use them?

 

Jun. 11:  Gadgets and apps for safe navigation

There are many apps and devices that can aid a visually impaired traveler through the unknown.  These apps and devices can help you avoid low-hanging obstacles and other obstructions.  Which ones can you afford, and which ones offer the best protection?