Today on the show Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss their holiday preparations, weekend plans, and the joys of a quiet Christmas. They share humorous anecdotes about cleaning their studios, ear cleaning mishaps, and the importance of slowing down expectations in daily life.

The conversation eventually shifts to technology, including the Be My Eyes app and the challenges of using camera glasses for reading. They also explore the recent news about a driverless bus service in Scotland and the future of autonomous vehicles.

Also, Steven shares his excitement about digitizing old cassette tapes, reflecting on the nostalgia of family memories.

Our featured conversation today discusses the Aira visual interpretation service, its functionality, and its new partnership with Walmart. Jenine Stanley from the company, along with Michael Babcock who has been out testing the service at Walmart, explore how Aira provides visual interpreting services for individuals who are blind, emphasizing its value in everyday situations, privacy concerns by users, and the importance of trust. The discussion also highlights the role of access partners like Walmart in enhancing accessibility for users while reducing costs overall.

Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us [email protected] 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 Holiday Preparations and Weekend Plans
08:52 Be My Eyes Experience and Camera Challenges
15:08 Driverless Bus Service in Scotland Cancelled
25:06 Nostalgia and Digitizing Cassette Tapes
30:15 Introduction to Aira and Be My Eyes
33:03 Exploring Aira's Visual Interpreting Service
40:32 Aira's Partnership with Walmart
41:01 Aira in Action: A Walmart Experience
49:13 Access Partners and Their Importance
55:54 How to Sign Up for Aira

About Aira
At Aira, we believe access to information is a human right. Aira breaks down accessibility barriers by providing on-demand video remote interpreting for both the blind and low-vision community, and the Deaf Community. People can download the Aira Explorer app or the Aira ASL app, and be instantly connected to a professional interpreter. Available 24/7/365, interpreters work with callers to facilitate more efficient communication and accomplish tasks together. Aira is proud to lead the way in delivering secure, on-demand, inclusive services that transform lives and open doors to new opportunities for all. #OnMyTerms Learn more at www.aira.io (https://www.aira.io)
Download for iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/aira-explorer/id1590186766
Download for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=io.aira.explorer&hl=en_CA

Today on the show, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss the latest developments in AI technology, particularly focusing on Meta AI and its availability in the UK and the use cases for Google Geminii 2.0.

Following a request from Meta, the company sends us an official statement regarding AI features, their availability in the UK, and the importance of accessibility in AI technology.

Privacy concerns surrounding AI usage are also addressed following a listener email, along with a demonstration of the Gemini AI vision features from Brian Clark, highlighting its capabilities and potential applications.

There’s also more discussion from listeners on the suggestion by Steven that there should be national technology centres for blind people, with viewpoints raised by Negative Julian and Tiffani on the topic.

Plus Tiffani touches on the concept of blind pride and the varying experiences of those who are blind or visually impaired.

Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us [email protected] 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 Intro
02:59 Meta AI and Its Availability in the UK
06:03 User Experiences with Meta Ray-Ban Glasses
09:03 Meta's Official Statement on AI Features
14:59 Privacy Concerns with AI Technology
17:49 Demonstration of Gemini AI Features
48:18 Debate on National Training Centers
51:58 Blind Pride and Community Support

Today on the show, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss the latest advancements in AI technology, focusing on Google Gemini and Meta's new Live AI features just announced.

They share their experiences with these tools, particularly in terms of accessibility for the blind community. The conversation highlights the potential benefits and limitations of AI, emphasizing the importance of user prompts and the need for caution in trusting AI for safety.

Our main conversation today however focuses on BiPed, a wearable device for navigation, and its new features. Mael Fabien is the co-founder of the company and shares information on the newly-named NOA wearable and their NOA Chat feature available to Whatsapp users. More details are available at biped.ai.

Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us [email protected] 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 Intro
03:00 Exploring Google Gemini and Its Features
08:46 Meta's Live AI and Its Implications
21:10 Updates on Biped and New Features

https://youtu.be/Y5Dp7tDcemA
Today on the show Steven and Shaun discuss new enhancements in AI vision, while Steven declares he will never eat chocolate again!

But the big story of the day is the developments in AI Vision, with both Google and Open AI launching the ability to use your camera to get real time information about your surroundings, with mixed results.

Shaun demonstrates the Gemini 2.0 vision feature during an early morning walk with his dog, while Steven talks about his experience trying out the new Chat GPT vision feature.

You can access Google’s free version of AI vision using Gemini 2.0 here - https://aistudio.google.com

The guys also chat about a new documentary from Front Page Tech by Jon Prosser - you can watch it here. https://youtu.be/fkK7_QEIJrg?si=ksxDjnYwTPzocl5c

Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us [email protected] 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 Intro
11:56 Discussion on Blind Representation in Media
26:48 Exploring AI's Limitations in Mobility Assistance
37:39 Accessing AI Vision Capabilities
45:51 AI's Role in Enhancing Travel Experiences
51:29 Innovations in Hearing Aid Technology

In this episode, Steven Scott and Shaun discuss various topics related to assistive technology, including the Glide Mobility Aid, user experiences, and the importance of confidence in new mobility solutions.

Listener emails also bring up the topic of living with hearing loss as well as blindness, and the challenges of using hearing aids alongside assistive technology, plus how cochlear implants can be useful to so many people.

There’s also much discussion on the latest kitchen gadgets made accessible by specialist tech companies and organisations out there, starting with an interview recorded at SIght Village in London, UK with Simon Cox from Cobolt Systems. We learn about their new talking dual drawer air fryer and talking microwave/oven.

Shaun also catches us with Bram Caron from CNIB to hear about their new talking microwave that has just come to the market across the country.

Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us [email protected] 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 Intro
01:19 Exploring the Glide Device
11:24 Banking Apps and Accessibility
21:25 Cochlear Implants and Neuralink Discussion
24:00 Exploring Neuralink and Sensory Integration
26:22 Personal Experiences with Hearing and Vision Loss
29:53 Talking Air Fryer and Microwave from Cobolt Systems
36:24 Introducing the CNIB Talking Microwave

In this chaotic edition of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun try to compose themselves and discuss various interesting topics. They start with a light-hearted banter about a listener's request for a cat sound effect, leading into a discussion about the pros and cons of using Windows versus Mac for audio editing.

The conversation shifts to the NVDA screen reader and its features, followed by a debate on the new Outlook interface.

Following a listener email from Brian, the guys get a bit more serious as they discuss the need for national centers to support blind people in technology training and job placement.

More emails provide insights into the challenges faced by the blind community, including the job market and the importance of accessible technology, as well as a fiery discussion about the right way to use the Glidance mobility aid called Glide.

Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us [email protected] 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 Intro
02:51 The Search for a Cat
05:47 Windows vs. Mac: A Personal Experience
11:49 Navigating Outlook: New vs. Classic
14:48 The Need for Braille Education and Support
20:47 The Importance of Accessibility in Technology
51:14 Understanding the Glide Mobility Aid

In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece celebrate breaking news regarding the Mantis Q40's new text-to-speech feature. Steven demonstrates the new feature for listeners and viewers exploring how the new feature works, and how it integrates into the workflow of the device itself

The show also includes listener feedback on various topics, including Christmas decorations, the Blindshell Classic 3, and a review of the much discussed Mini Guide. The guys also discuss the challenges of finding accessible content on platforms like Apple TV and listener John shares insights on the Pixel Watch's performance in terms of accessibility.

Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us [email protected] 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 Intro
06:03 Mantis Q40 Text-to-Speech Feature in Action
11:58 Update Process and Features
20:54 Your Feedback
28:49 Blindshell 3 and Future Demos
36:53 Accessibility in Apple TV: A User's Frustration
47:34 Direct Touch Typing on Android Devices

In this episode, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece celebrate Steven's birthday while discussing various topics including updates to Android’s Talkback screen reader and the quest for Meta AI in the UK.

Listener contributions also include a top tip on connecting your Amazon Echo to your mobile phone so you can use it when staying at a hotel or at another house, a new way to quickly access apps on Windows, and a cool gadget to avoid slipping and falling during icy days.

Plus, we learn why Steven is a genius after fixing his broken PC - but what non-tech solution did he use to sort it out?

Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us [email protected] 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 Intro

06:29 Android and AI Innovations

16:45 Meta AI: Features and User Experiences

29:31 Password Management Challenges

39:07 Be My Eyes vs. Seeing AI

46:15 Tech Tips for Smart Devices

52:36 Navigating Windows Accessibility

In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece engage in lively banter about the weather, their podcasting energy, and the importance of mood in creating engaging content. In other words, they both need more coffee!

They delve into the world of screen readers, comparing NVDA, JAWS, and Narrator, and discuss the potential of a new operating system called Cosmos from Humane AI. 

The conversation shifts to the GoBox, a device designed to make subtitles accessible, and the Envision glasses that could potentially enhance gaming experiences for visually impaired users using their new Ally AI feature. 

They also touch on Peloton's new audio-based exercise app and its accessibility features, inviting listener feedback on those who might have tried it.

Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us [email protected] 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 Intro

05:58 Screen Readers: NVDA vs. JAWS

10:28 The New Operating System: Cosmos from Humane AI

32:27 Real-Time OCR Technology For Subtitles

42:20 Exploring the Envision Glasses

In this special episode of Double Tap, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece are joined by tech guru Michael Babcock to tackle listener questions. As always, the conversation is packed with tips, tricks, and a bit of chaos.  

Steven kicks things off by talking about his switch from VMware Fusion to Parallels for running virtual machines on macOS. He shares how it’s made his life easier, especially with keyboard shortcuts and overall functionality. Meanwhile, Michael offers his own insights into navigating macOS and Windows simultaneously without losing your mind.  

One listener asks for advice on marking frozen foods in a chest freezer without braille. The team dives into solutions like tactile markers, elastic tags, and tech options such as PenFriend and NFC tags, with plenty of laughs along the way about the quirks of cooking when you can’t see what’s in the freezer.  

Michael also takes on a great question about learning VoiceOver gestures on iPhone. If you’ve ever struggled with swipes, taps, or understanding the rotor, he’s got you covered with recommendations like Apple’s built-in VoiceOver tutorial and the VO Starter app.  

Headphones are another hot topic. From bone conduction options like the Shokz OpenRun Pro to Apple’s AirPods, the guys break down what works best for audiobooks, walking, and staying aware of your surroundings. They even touch on budget-friendly alternatives that won’t break the bank.  

Steven revisits his take on the Apple Watch after recently upgrading. Spoiler alert: He’s found new love for its navigation features, health tracking, and Apple Pay convenience, though he admits it’s still not perfect for everyone.  

For listeners curious about video accessibility, Michael explains how to use the Seeing AI app to make sense of videos and suggests ways to convert formats if needed. They also troubleshoot transferring files between iPhones and the Victor Reader Stream, exploring options like USB-C adapters and SD card readers.  

Mac vs. PC debates resurface as the team discusses whether switching to macOS is worth it. Michael shares his tips for tackling the learning curve, while Stephen reflects on how the Mac has become a powerful tool in his workflow.  

The episode wraps up with advice on how to amplify specific voices in noisy environments. Whether it’s using the iPhone’s Live Listen feature with AirPods or investing in a personal listener device, there’s plenty of practical info for making family gatherings (or avoiding them!) a little easier.  

It’s another jam-packed episode full of tech, accessibility tips, and laughs!

Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us [email protected] 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 Intro

06:02 Virtual Machines and Software Choices

11:58  Accessibility in the Kitchen

18:08 Understanding VoiceOver Gestures and Controls

24:46 Audio Devices: Recommendations and Comparisons

31:55 The Apple Watch: A Personal Perspective

30:16 Utilizing Seeing AI for Video Accessibility

36:02 Transferring Files Between Devices

40:30 Transitioning from Windows to Mac

49:10 Enhancing Conversations with Technology

56:20 Navigating Blindness: Resources and Communities

01:02:40 Dog Ownership and Blindness: Practical Tips