Assistive Technology Update--It's been a busy week in the Assistive Technology world.

Last Thursday, Apple released their new operating system, the iOS7.  Built into the system (free) is switch control to the device.  This switch control covers the iPad, iPhone, and iTouch meaning all these devices can be accessed hands free.  (YEAH!!!)  No longer will people have to give up their iPad when they can no longer use their hands.  (as you all know my love of technology, I've been like a kid in a candy store since last Thursday)

I just wrote and published an article on my blog on how to turn you iPad into a scanning device.  Feel free to give this to interested patients.  I am always happy to help so if you have someone that needs iPad switch access help, send them my way. http://alsassistivetechnology.blogspot.com/2013/09/hands-free-access-to-ipad-via-switch.html

Also, last Thurdsay, Tobii released a new device called the Tobii Eye Mobile which givers users control of a WINDOWS tablet (NOT iPad!)  Price starts at $4,2000.  http://www.bizjournals.com/boston/blog/techflash/2013/09/tobii-eye-tracking-tech-gives-users.html

Lastly, a company called Eye Tribe is selling pre-orders for a eye gaze product that they say will give users full access to their computer or Windows tablet via eye gaze for (get this) $99.00.  I can't say if the product works but you all know I will be all over this when it comes to market. https://theeyetribe.com/products/

Thanks!

 

Alisa

 

Alisa Brownlee, ATP

Assistive Technology Specialist

ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) Association, National Office and Greater Philadelphia Chapter

Conference Chair, RESNA 2014 Convention

215-631-1877

 

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Mark you calendars!

RESNA’s 2014 Conference is “Racing Towards Excellence in Assistive Technology”

June 11-15, 2014—JW Marriott Indianapolis, IN

http://www.resna.org