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Code Factory und Acapela, alternative Sprachausgaben für NVDA
Wer sich den kostenlosen Screenreader NVDA (Non Visual Desktop Access) installiert, wird mit der freien Sprachausgabe eSpeak oder den Windows-stimmen leben müssen. Diese sind brauchbar, für längeres Arbeiten allerdings eher weniger geeignet. Sie sind zwar tief in Windows integriert...
merkst.de/code-factory-acapela…
#Android #Apple #Computer #Google #JAWS #Lautsprecher #Microsoft #NVDA #Screenreader #Test #VoiceOver #Windows


Hey fellow #BlindMastodon users! I'm looking for recommendations on two types of writing tools for Windows:

1. Accessible text expanders
2. Word prediction software

I use both #JAWS and #NVDA screen readers. I tried Espanso (an open-source text expander), but it didn't work well with NVDA. I also tested Lightkey for word prediction, but it didn't seem accessible.

As an #ActuallyAutistic person, word prediction would really help with my autism-related communication challenges.

Have you found any text expanders or word prediction tools that work well with screen readers? What has your experience been like? I'd love to hear your recommendations and thoughts!

#Accessibility #AssistiveTechnology #TextExpander #WordPrediction #ScreenReader #Windows #AutismAccommodations #autism #blind @mastoblind @main


It’s no secret that many of us in the blind community have embraced the rapid advances in Artificial Intelligence over the past two years. We've witnessed firsthand how these technologies can be a powerful force for good, especially within our community. AI-generated image descriptions have revolutionized how we navigate the online world, offering a perspective previously unimaginable. This impact is now undeniable, transforming how we interact with the world.”

I’ve declared the kingdom of the blind a republic—perhaps prematurely, but only by a small margin. With AI empowering us to perceive the digital world in new ways, we are no longer ruled by limitations, but actively shaping our future. Anthropic’s recent launch of ‘computer use’ marks the first steps into a new phase of AI evolution—one where AI agents begin to act independently on our behalf, initiating a shift in how we interact with technology.

As AI continues to evolve, so too will the Assistive Technology that many of us depend on. I envision a future where this intelligence becomes a true companion, guiding us seamlessly through both digital landscapes and real-world challenges. We may be just two years away from seeing JAWS, NVDA, or SuperNova transform into true Assistive Intelligence 1.0—or perhaps it will take a little longer. If AI has taught us anything, it’s that progress comes both more slowly than we expect and faster than we can possibly imagine.

What follows is my first attempt at describing how a screen reader of today could take the first steps towards becoming an Assistive Intelligence. If anyone wants to build it, I’d love to help if I can. Whatever you think, let me know what you think:

“Proposed AI-Powered Self-Scripting Feature for JAWS Screen Reader

Objective
The suggested feature seeks to integrate advanced AI-driven "computer use" capabilities, like those developed by Claude (Anthropic), into the JAWS screen reader. This functionality would enable JAWS to autonomously create and refine custom scripts in response to real-time user interactions and application environments. The aim is to enhance accessibility and productivity for visually impaired users, especially when navigating non-standard or otherwise inaccessible software interfaces.

Feature Description
The self-scripting capability would empower JAWS to analyse user interactions with applications, identify recurring actions or inaccessible elements, and generate scripts that optimize these processes. By enabling JAWS to perform this autonomously, users gain seamless and personalized access to applications without manual intervention, allowing for an enhanced, efficient experience.

The self-scripting feature will be powered by the following core functions:

1. Real-Time Autonomous Scripting: JAWS would use AI to observe user interactions with applications, especially non-accessible ones, and automatically generate scripts that improve navigation, label untagged elements, and streamline frequent tasks. For example, if a user frequently navigates to a particular form field, JAWS could create a shortcut to this area.

2. Adaptive Behaviour Learning: This feature would allow JAWS to recognize patterns in a user’s interactions, such as repeated actions or commonly accessed elements. JAWS would adapt its behaviour by creating custom macros, enabling faster navigation and interaction with complex workflows.

3. Dynamic Accessibility Adjustment: Leveraging Claude’s approach to visual recognition, JAWS could interpret visual elements (like buttons or icons) and provide instant labelling or feedback. This would be valuable in software with minimal accessibility features, as it enables JAWS to make live adjustments and effectively “teach itself” how to navigate new environments.

4. Community Script Sharing: Self-generated scripts, once verified, could be anonymized, and made available to other users via a shared repository. This would foster a collaborative environment, empowering users to contribute to a broader database of accessibility scripts for applications across various industries.

Value Proposition
This feature will address key challenges for visually impaired users, including the complexity of navigating inaccessible interfaces and the time-consuming nature of repetitive tasks. The ability for JAWS to generate its own scripts autonomously would mean:
1. Increased Accessibility: Improved interaction with non-accessible software interfaces.
2. Higher Productivity: Reduced need for external support or manual scripting, allowing users to accomplish tasks more independently.
3. Enhanced User Experience: Scripting and macro creation based on personal usage patterns -- leads to a more intuitive and personalized experience.

Technical Considerations
1. Performance: Processing real-time visual and user interaction data requires substantial computing power. A cloud-based model may be optimal, offloading some processing requirements and ensuring smooth, responsive performance.
2. Safety: Automated scripting must be closely monitored to prevent unintended interactions or conflicts within applications. Integration of safeguard protocols and user settings to enable/disable autonomous scripting will be essential.
3. Privacy: To ensure user data is protected, anonymization protocols and data privacy standards will be implemented. Data collected from user interactions would be handled in compliance with rigorous privacy standards, safeguarding user preferences and behaviour.

Conclusion
Integrating AI-powered self-scripting capabilities into JAWS would represent a significant leap in screen reader technology. By allowing JAWS to, when requested, autonomously learn, adapt, and script in response to user needs, this feature could provide visually impaired users with unprecedented control and flexibility in navigating digital environments, fostering both independence and productivity. The anticipated benefits underscore the feature’s potential to redefine accessible technology, turning screen reader into Assistive Intelligence.“

About the Author:

Lottie is a passionate advocate for the transformative potential of AI, especially within the blind and visually impaired community. She blends technical insights with a keen awareness of lived experiences, envisioning a future where AI doesn’t just assist but truly empowers. Her thoughtful reflections explore the shift from a "kingdom of the blind" to a republic, where emerging technologies like AI create new opportunities for autonomy and inclusion.

With a balance of optimism and critical realism, Lottie acknowledges the game-changing impact of AI tools like image descriptions while recognizing that more progress is needed. Her vision extends to the idea of "Assistive Intelligence," where screen readers like JAWS evolve into proactive companions, adapting to users' needs in real-time.

Known for turning complex ideas into actionable blueprints, Lottie is not just an observer of technological trends but a catalyst for innovation. Her proposals reflect a desire to elevate independence and productivity for blind users, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in assistive technology. Her insights continue to inspire conversations and shape the future of accessible tech.

I am the Blind AI, relying on AI every day to enrich my life. While my posts may occasionally benefit from AI assistance, the thoughts, perspectives, and final edits are entirely my own. AI is my tool, much like a calculator or spell-check, refining my expression but never replacing my voice.

#Accessibility #AI #AIsoftheBlind #Blind #ComputerVision #Disability #Innovation #JAWS #NVDA #ScreenReader #SuperNov


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Tune into ACB Radio on 10/24 at 3 PM ET for the Vispero Presentation: Manage Bookmarks and Lists in Google Chrome with JAWS. We’ll show you how to bookmark a site, manage and access bookmarks, plus add an article to a reading list. Request an invitation at community@acb.org

#FreedomScientificTraining #JAWS


So I never thought I'd be saying this, but I'm considering switching away from Outlook because it's not properly deleting my Gmail messages LOL. Everything that Outlook says is deleted still shows up in Gmail's All Mail folder. This doesn't happen using the native mail app in iOS. I've changed some settings in both Outlook and on Gmail's web interface, and this still seems to be occurring. Are there any alternatives out there that are simple and accessible with screenreaders? #Blind #Windows #JAWS #NVDA #A11y


Tune into ACB Radio on 10/17 at 3 PM ET for the Vispero Presentation: Personalize JAWS Commands with Keyboard Manager. We’ll show you how to use Keyboard Manager to assign and manage keystrokes for commands in JAWS. Due to Hurricane Helene, we are repeating this event so everyone who would like to attend can be there. Request an invitation at community@acb.org

#FreedomScientificTraining #JAWS


🚀 Want more control over what JAWS says?
Our new episode is here! I walk you through using the Dictionary Manager to customize JAWS for a faster, smoother workflow. Catch it now! 🎧 #UnmutePresents #JAWS #Accessibility #BlindTech pinecast.com/listen/2225898f-b… @freedomscientific


What do you even get with a perpetual Jaws license? How long does that license last, exactly? How much for each update? #Blind #JAWS


Did you catch Ron's recent Freedom Scientific Training Podcast? Listeners will explore how the F6 key simplifies navigation across Word, Outlook, Excel, and PowerPoint, offering practical tips for quickly moving between different panes and boosting efficiency. The Power of the F6 Key in MS Office Products: freedomscientifictraining.libs…

#TechTips #Podcast #JAWS #FreedomScientificTraining


🌟 #Sharkvember excitement is in full swing with Freedom Scientific's **Next Big Thing** contest! Last year, the winning idea was all about AI-generated image descriptions—a game-changer for accessibility! 🎉🤖 This year, the competition's fierce, and it's anyone's guess what brilliant idea will take the crown. Will it be another AI marvel, or perhaps something totally unexpected? 🤔✨

Submissions are in soon, and on November 19th, finalists will showcase their visionary ideas for JAWS and ZoomText. I can't wait to see the creativity and innovation at play this year! 😍💡 The thrill of seeing our accessibility tools evolve is so inspiring. We might just see new features that transform how blind and low-vision users interact with the world! 🌐👀

Catch the live event and let’s cheer for these pioneers pushing the boundaries of tech! #NextBigThing #Accessibility #JAWS #ZoomText #Sharkvember2024 🦈💙


Amazon.com Keyboard Shortcuts... I just noticed that Amazon.com now has a few built in keyboard shortcuts. I am using Jaws and the Google Chrome browser. Please note, with Jaws, you do not have to turn off the virtual cursor or any changes have to be made. The keyboard shortcuts just work! Here are the shortcuts. ALT+/, Go to search. Shift+alt+C, go to cart. Shift+alt+H, go to home. Shift+alt+O, go to list of orders. That's it. Some is better than nothing. I know I will be using them! Happy shopping. #Amazon #Windows #Jaws #Keyboard #Shortcuts #Blind #Accessible


As we are up to extend our AX tests to the three screen readers Jaws, NVDA and VoiceOver, I am looking for an overview page that lists the differences.
Which elements are put out by which screen reader, how does the output differ?
I've seen such an overview linked within mastodon a while ago. The web site contained a table with elements and their output in the three named screen readers.
Maybe one of you knows where I can find such an overview.
#ScreenReader #jaws #nvda #voiceover #a11y


Does anyone know of an accessible screen capture and recording app? Thanks! #jaws #accessibility #windows


Did you catch the recent ACB Vispero Presentation - Use Text Processing Settings to Customize How JAWS Reads Text? In case you missed it, the archive is now available: acb-community.pinecast.co/epis…

#FreedomScientificTraining #JAWS


Tune into ACB Radio on 9/26 at 3 PM ET for the Vispero Presentation: Personalize JAWS Commands with Keyboard Manager. We’ll show you how to use Keyboard Manager to assign and manage keystrokes for commands in JAWS. Request an invitation at community@acb.org

#FreedomScientificTraining #JAWS


Tune into ACB Radio on 9/12 at 3 PM ET for the Vispero Presentation: Use Text Processing Settings to Customize How JAWS Reads Text. We’ll show you how to use Text Processing in Settings Center to determine how JAWS reads text. This includes how to announce capitalization, identify the beginning and end of tables, announce list items, numbers, and dates, plus indicate new lines. Request an invitation at community@acb.org

#FreedomScientificTraining #JAWS


Okay just, like right off the cuff here. But why does Vispero, a company making blindness software/hardware want videos for there Big Thing thing? Why not just text? Emails? Like, what? Why? Meh, whatever. I'll submit mine I guess. I'm sure some of you know what I'm gonna suggest. Feel free to submit your own ideas, goodness knows we need more grand ideas for screen readers.

#accessibility #blind #Braille #JAWS #FreedomScientific #ScreenReader

freedomscientific.com/nextbigt…


So, I'm genuinely curious. NVDA now has the ability to show text formatting in Braille. I don't mean through dot 7 and 8, or HTML-looking tags--although it can do those too now--but through the UEB, or whatever table you use, formatting symbols created for that Braille code. It also can now show paragraphs, either using spaces, or a Pilcro sign.

So, can JAWS do either of these? I'm seriously wondering, because people are *always* saying that JAWS' Braille support is the best in the industry. And I just want to make sure I'm using it the best I can. I also have Leasey, so if Leasey has features to help with that, @hartgenconsult I know there's the BrailleEase thing that I've not taken a look at yet. There's a ton of things I need to learn about Leasey.

For now, I know that iOS can show Braille formatting in the Books and Notes app, and the Mac can show it... in Safari as well I think. Linux... Well, Linux can't, besides the dot 7 and 8 stuff.

Braille formatting has really come far from the post I did like years ago, and I'm super happy about that. Hopefully it keeps going, especially in the age of multi-line displays.

#accessibility #JAWS #NVDA #blind #Braille #screenReader


Does anyone know if Vispero started the JAWS 2025 public beta cycle yet? #ScreenReader #JAWS


Did you catch the recent Sight and Sound Technology webinar "Demystifying the web with JAWS?" In case you missed it, check it out now: youtu.be/d4_C6CTLr38?si=nfc0gi…

#JAWS #FreedomScientificTraining


Did you catch the recent ACB Vispero Presentation - Manage Messages in Gmail with JAWS? In case you missed it, the archive is now available: acb-community.pinecast.co/epis…

#FreedomScientificTraining #JAWS


Hello friends, trying to enter the #accessibility testing world. any resources that you can suggest on how to do this, how to point out problems and how to correctly make a documentation about them. i'll really appreciate it. i think for now this is the only way i can earn money. thanks in advance! #Blind #Blindness #AccessibilityTesting #BlindLife #JAWS #NVDA #WCAG #WebAccessibility


Did you catch the "20 Minute Tech Tips" episode with Elizabeth Whitaker when she demonstrated some powerful tips for searching in Gmail? Listen to the episode now: freedomscientifictraining.libs…

#FreedomScientificTraining #JAWS #20MinuteTechTips


Jaws Discount. Like in past years, Freedom Scientific is offering a 20% discount for upgrading your SMA or Annual license during the time of the ACB and NFB conventions; July 3rd thru 12th. You can call and do it by phone, or do it online. You will just need one of these codes, ACB24 or NFB24. If doing it online, just know that the place you put in the code is on down the page past all of the charges. Here is the link to do it online... support.freedomscientific.com/…. #Jaws #Discount #ACB #NFB #Convention #Blind


Did you catch the recent ACB Vispero Presentation - Five Outlook Tips for increasing Productivity? In case you missed it, the archive is now available: acb-community.pinecast.co/epis…

#FreedomScientificTraining #JAWS


That said, updating #JAWS is still a pain. It's ridiculous that the US has had such a cheap way of using JAWS at home for over half a decade now and the rest of the world pays stupid prices or has to buy at very specific times of the year which you only know about if you're quite involved in the community,
And I'm still sad that workplace adjustments are still hugely JAWS driven, when NVDA Addon development should really have made this much more of an open thing.
Hey ho, it's all about the choice I suppose and that's a good thing. Hopefully screen readers will keep enspiring each other to new things.
#jaws


Very impressed with the new Split #Braille Feature in #JAWS. Being able to read Teams chat with half my display whilst typing someplace else is tremendous. They seem to have well thought out the different modes and views. Shame about the cells wasted with the split and lack of customisability of the viewport widths. If I won the lottery I'd throw a few hundred k at #NVDASR for comparable #BrailleDisplay development


The third edition of David Kingsbury’s popular free digital book, “The Windows Screen Reader Primer: All the Basics and More,” is coming soon! Author David Kingsbury, an Assistive Technology Instructor here at the Carroll Center, wrote this comprehensive resource to help JAWS, NVDA, and Windows Narrator users work more effectively with the most important PC applications—like Microsoft Office, email clients, and web browsers.

Join author David Kingsbury via Zoom on Thursday, April 4 at 7:30 pm ET to find out what’s new in this edition, hear a few tips and tricks, and ask your questions. Save your seat here: lnkd.in/e7ct_C8B

#Windows #Jaws #NVDA #Narrator #blind


I wrote an article about how to make hastags accessible. Did some #ScreenReader testing with #JAWS, #NVDA, #VoiceOver and #Narrator, which was fun!

Pretty long one though, contains a bunch of tables for comparison. Enjoy the ride!

stevefrenzel.dev/posts/easy-we…

#accessibility #a11y #html #JavaScript #WebDev #frontend


I wanted Renpy games to speak with screen readers, so I made a very quick and dirty hack/patch to make them speak with JAWS and NVDA instead of SAPI.
nsstudiosweb.com/downloads/ren…
#renpy #jaws #nvda #steam #accessibility #a11y #gamedev #SlayThePrincess #arcadeSpirits


Introducing Face in View. A revolutionary new feature in JAWS and Fusion that tells you how to position yourself so that your face is clearly on-camera. Face in View uses facial tracking points to audibly guide you to look directly into your camera. Check out this short video: youtu.be/uAD7z-rfV5Q?si=ApMg-2…

#JAWS #Fusion #FaceInView


Is it just me, or is the interface for searching in #thunderbird really clunky with #NVDAsr? Seems like it takes a lot of steps just to view the list of results. I find myself resorting to iOS mail if I need to track down a message from a few days ago. Is it better with a different #Screenreader? #accessibility #a11y #Jaws #JFW


We are pleased to announce the release of the 2024 versions of JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion! Check out the What’s New pages and download the latest version for all the new features and improvements.

JAWS: support.freedomscientific.com/…

ZoomText: support.freedomscientific.com/…

Fusion: support.freedomscientific.com/…

#JAWS #ZoomText #Fusion