All Cool Blind Tech Shows

Dive into this podcast to learn about the Qwerky Writer Mechanical Keyboard, a keyboard dedicated to those who want the greatest typewriter feeling under their fingertips at all times. Thanks to arrangements done by Qwerkytoys, what's reviewed here is of the latest QwerkyWriter S model. As you can hear, I could not be more than pleased with the design, build, and overall retro feel of this product. As you also hear, there are some some negatives, such as the right-shift key, but these to me have not detracted from using the device at all. While you can pick up another keyboard claiming a typewriter feel, I truly challenge you in these three qualities produced by the breadth of attention put in by the QwerkyWriter team. * 4 connections at once. That includes a USB machine, and 3 over Bluetooth. At once, yes, you can have 4 devices at the same time and seamlessly switch among them. This can include a mix of mobile, desktop and gaming devices. * Quality of build. These keys now use Cherry Blue switches, and beyond the one minor difference in my podcast, they are fully compatible with any key set you want to change it into. The customization is yours, and you get the superb clicky blue switches with a nice plating that gives it a typewriter clicking sound. I change my keys with the 104-key keycap set by Aukey to prevent the metal chrome on the original set from chipping in a non-portable situation that I'm using this keyboard in, such as my job. * Finally, A stand which fits a Braille display. When it comes to both my Refreshabraille 18, and VarioUltra 40, this device will handle them comfortably. The Tablet stand, design to originally accommodate tablets fits Braille displays of many sizes and types. Let us know if yours also can fit in to the keyboard! I can use my displays slightly tilted with the cells towards me to read off any text as I type on the keyboard, increasing productivity. I definitely don't need a combined solution for a premium price, no sir, it's part of my keyboard. Overall, I could not be more than satisfied with the feel of each key, as they are consistent among presses. The entire plate of this QwerkyWriter is metal, and it is noticeable in quality to keyboards I previously tested. I'm confident that this keyboard will last me for years to come, and that it is a worthwhile product for many people, thus I bring this review to you as a journalist and professional.

In this session, Google covers ways to make Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality more accessible to more users.

Learn about the latest feature additions to Android P, get an update on accessibility testing and best practices, and hear about new APIs that developers can use to create more accessible app experiences. This session will also offer a unique look into how Google conducts UX research for users with disabilities.

CBT checks out these true wireless headphones with no cords and no tangles — just great audio. Charge/Storage case allows convenient recharging — charge up to three times while on-the- go. Features: * The iQ Podz provide superb sound quality with deep bass and noise cancellation. * Built-in microphone for taking calls on-the-go. * IPX4 water resistance protects against splashing water such as rain and sweat. * Includes charging/storage case, Micro USB cable and three sizes of ear tips. * Compatible via Bluetooth v4.1 with almost any Apple or Android device. * Multi-connection capability allows you to connect to two devices at once. * Rechargeable battery. * Music playing: 3 hours. * Calling talk time: 2-3 hours. * Standby time: 100 hours. * Charging storage case allows you to recharge up to 3 times on-the-go.

In this weeks Spotlight CBT features Mr. Gilles Pepin, the CEO of HumanWare. With more than 25 years experience, Mr. Pepin has built a solid worldwide reputation in the field of assistive technology and in the arena of visual impairment. In 1988, Mr. Pepin founded VisuAide, a successful company specialized in high technology for people who are blind or visually impaired. VisuAide merged with PDI in 2005 to form HumanWare. For over 25 years, HumanWare's inspirational vision has resulted in a range of highly intuitive and intelligent solutions that empower people who are blind or with low vision by giving them the independence to participate effectively within a sighted world. For more information, contact HumanWare below: USA Toll free: 1-800-722-3393 info@humanware.com CANADA Toll free: 1-888-723-7273 info@humanware.com AUSTRALIA/ASIA Tel: 1300-551-864 or 02-9686-2600 au.sales@humanware.com UK/EUROPE Tel: 44-1933-415-800 eu.sales@humanware.com

The next generation of Amazon's best-selling Fire tablet ever - now thinner, lighter, and with longer battery life and an improved display. According to Amazon, it is more durable than the latest iPad. CBT initializes VoiceView and goes through the setup of Amazon's newest Fire 7 Tablet. The accessibility features allows you to magnify the screen and increase the size of text in menus on your Fire tablet. You can also navigate your device using VoiceView gestures and hear spoken feedback about the items you touch and open The Fire 7 Tablet has a 7" IPS display with higher contrast and sharper text, a 1.3 GHz quad-core processor, and up to 8 hours of battery life. 8 or 16 GB of internal storage and a microSD slot for up to 256 GB of expandable storage. Enjoy millions of Kindle eBooks, games, and apps - including Prime Video, Netflix, Facebook, Prime Music, Spotify and more. Prime members get unlimited access to over one million songs, thousands of movies and TV episodes, and unlimited photo storage - at no additional cost. Watch downloaded videos anywhere with a Prime membership or Netflix plan. Technical Details Display 17.7 cm touchscreen, 1024 x 600 resolution at 171 ppi, SD video playback, with IPS (in-plane switching) technology and advanced polarizing filter Size 192 x 115 x 9.6 mm Weight 295 grams (Actual size and weight may vary by configuration and manufacturing process.) CPU & RAM Quad-Core 1.3 GHz with 1 GB of RAM Storage 8 GB (4.5 GB available to user) or 16 GB (11.6 GB available to user) of internal storage. Add microSD card for up to 256 GB of additional storage for even more movies, TV shows, music, photos, personal videos, and apps. (Some apps may require that they are installed on internal storage.) Battery Life Up to 8 hours of reading, surfing the web, watching video, and listening to music. Battery life will vary based on device settings, usage, and other factors such as web browsing and downloading content. Actual results may vary. Charge Time Fully charges in under 6 hours using the micro-USB power adaptor included in the box, or slightly longer with other micro-USB power adaptors that you may already have Wi-Fi Connectivity Single-antenna dual-band Wi-Fi. Supports public and private Wi-Fi networks or hotspots that use the 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, or 802.11n standard with support for WEP, WPA, and WPA2 security using password authentication; does not support connecting to ad-hoc (or peer-to-peer) Wi-Fi networks. Ports USB 2.0 (micro-B connector) to connect to a PC/Macintosh computer, or to charge your device with the included power adaptor; microSD slot for external storage Audio 3.5 mm stereo jack and integrated speaker Content Formats Supported Kindle (AZW), KF8, TXT, PDF, unprotected MOBI, PRC natively, Audible Enhanced format (AAX), DOC, DOCX, JPEG, GIF, PNG, BMP, non-DRM AAC, MP3, MIDI, PCM/WAVE, OGG, WAV, M4V, MP4, AAC LC/LTP, HE-AACv1, HE-AACv2, MKV, AMR-NB, AMR-WB, HTML5, CSS3, 3GP, VP8 (WEBM) Sensors Accelerometer Camera Specs VGA front-facing camera. 2 MP rear-facing HD camera Location Services Location-based services via Wi-Fi Additional Features External volume controls,

The CBT Team kicks off its new Braille Mail Show, with James and Nelson as your hosts. Keep sending us your emails and messages from social media and we will read or play your feedback on our show. You can contact us via email to cbt@coolblindtech.com or call our new toll free number at 1-855-330-2665 anytime night or day. From: Kevin Barry James, A while back, in one of the regular CBT podcasts, you recommended Google's new $160 wireless ear buds. I recall being surprised at your recommendation as at that time not only had that item not shipped but no reviewers had used it. Now that many reviews are indeed out, and they seem quite negative, I was wondering if you still recommend this item? Also, do you think it is a good idea to recommend something before you or anyone else has had a chance to use it? From: Brennen Kinch Hi I would like to get a Roku for Christmas but I am not sure which one would be the right one to get for Accessibility I listen to a podcast that was done on your site about a year ago that talked about Roku and its accessibility but a year has passed since the podcast was released so I guess what I am wondering is how has accessibility improved over the last year and what in your opinion would be the best model to get. From: Cruz Ramos Hello, my name is Cruz Ramos I have an account with you all guys but I forgot my username and password. I was also wondering if you except podcast from the public? I like doing podcasting. From: Erin Jepsen Do you know of a games-based SCREENREADER accessible software that teaches concepts like logic and programming skills? We have a windows PC, a Chromebook, a BrailleNote or an iPad with VoiceOver available to use. It needs to be basic and usable by a fourth grader. Please hit us with options!!! From: Scott Spaulding I need to replace my microphone for my podcast that I do from my iPhone. I use Spreaker, if that matters. Do you have any recommendations of units that aren't too expensive. I had an iRig mic cast previously. From: Syed Hussain Hi, This is Syed Hussain from India. I used VR head set recently. Thought I may share the experience here. How should I post here? Should I send it to you and get posted by you? From: Cuauhtli Padilla Arias Hi Cool blind tech! My name is Cuau, co-founder of Sunu. We developed a smart watch that enables the blind and visually impaired to better sense and navigate their surroundings. here you can learn more about it! http://igg.me/at/sunu-band/x/12767022 Thanks in advance for any support in our mission to empower to provide more independence to people with visual impairments. our Facebook is https://www.facebook.com/sunu.io From: Dave Ransley I enjoyed your last podcast, informative and professional. I am now a subscriber, keep them coming.

CBT takes a look at the Google Home Mini with updated touch controls. Shortly after launching the Mini, Google disabled all touch controls due to an issue with the touch control on the top of the device constantly being triggered even when not touched. Google recently added some touch controls back to it’s Mini speaker. Here's what you can do: * To play, pause, stop music playback or end a phone call, long-press on either side of the Home Mini. * Stop a timer or alarm with a tap on either side of the device. * Tap the left side to decrease volume. * Tap the right side to increase volume. Touch control on the top of the Home Mini is still missing. You will need to summon Google Assistant using your voice, instead of a long-press on the top of Home Mini as was originally intended. If the long-press actions aren't working for you quite yet, be patient. An update is rolling out to all Google Home Mini devices to add the new touch controls.

CBT gives you our first impressions of the Google Pixel 2 XL. Find out how this maybe the best of 2017. Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL The Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL both use Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 processors with 4GB RAM. (You can also choose between 64GB and 128GB options.) They have the same camera, processor, and speaker specs. They have 12.2-megapixel rear cameras that have an autofocus with laser and dual-pixel phase detection, and optical and electronic image stabilization. In the front, the Pixels have a fixed-focus 8-megapixel camera. Both phones use USB-C, but no wireless charging. There is no headphone jack and it runs on Bluetooth 5.0. The Pixel 2 XL has a bigger battery and a 6-inch screen with a 2880 x 1440 smart OLED resolution; the Pixel 2 has a 5-inch screen and 1920 x 1080 OLED resolution. This year’s XL is slightly bigger than last year’s 5.5-inch screen. The Pixel 2 is also slightly lighter and slimmer than the XL. The Pixel 2 comes in “kind of blue,” “just black,” and “clearly white. The regular price for the Pixel 2 64GB is $649, while the Pixel 2 XL 64GB costs $849. The 128GB variant costs $749 and 949. Look out for holiday discounts!

In this week’s VIP, Nelson and James discuss the top stories from assistive tech and give you some Cool Picks to think about. News Flash: Apple Support Now Has A Dedicated YouTube Channel! Virgin Atlantic Launches In-Flight Entertainment For Blind Travelers Top Stories The New iPhone X Unboxing And First Impressions Smart TV App Helps The Color Blind See Better Developer Making The First Bitcoin Wallet For The Blind Cool Picks Talking Tuner for iOS HotPaw Talking Tuner is a hands-off, sound-activated, talking musical instrument tuner. It talks to tell you if your instrument is in tune or not, so you don't even have to look at it or touch the display. Talking Tuner uses speech synthesis, and works with or without VoiceOver being enabled. Essential PH-1, A Premium Phone Without The Premium Price The Essential Phone’ has a stunning edge-to-edge Full Display and is a large-screen device that fits comfortably in the palm of your hand.

CBT takes a dip in the water with the Ultimate Ears roll 2. Will this portable bluetooth speaker sink or swim? No speaker has the same versatility or unique portability that ROLL 2 does. Strap it to your backpack, and it’ll still be there. Wirelessly Double Up with a second Ultimate Ears ROLL 2 speaker and take your sound to a whole new level. every ROLL 2 comes with a free inflatable floatie. Now while you're lounging on your giant inflatable swan, your ROLL 2 can float right beside you. SPECIFICATIONS WATERPROOF IPX7 rated: ROLL 2 can be immersed in liquid up to 1m for up to 30 minutes. BLOCK PARTY Block Party lets you and your friends all play music through ROLL 2. POWER With a battery life of up to 9 hours, you have no excuse to stop the party. WIRELESS RANGE ROLL 2 plays music up to 30m or (100 ft). WIRELESS CAPABILITIES Pair up to 8 Bluetooth ® enabled devices – Connect up to two source devices at the same time. Wirelessly play (stream) to two ROLL 2s from one source. COMPATIBILITY For Audio Playback - Smartphones, tablets and other devices that support Bluetooth® wireless audio profile [Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP)] or 3.5 mm audio output. DIMENSIONS Diameter: 135mm. Height: 40mm. Weight: 330 g

This time out we take a look at recording audio. This covers everything from setting up the computer to know which device/microphone to record from to telling GarageBand which track to record onto. Especially useful in projects with more than one tracks.So warm up those vocal pipes or playing fingers and lets continue our dive into recording with GarageBand. Keyboard Commands Covered in this Episode: * K = Toggle Metronome on/off * Shift K = toggle Count In on/off * R = Start recording * SpaceBar = Start/Stop Playback (technically play/pause), Stop Recording * Return = Go to beginning of the project * Command K = Toggle Musical Typing Keyboard on/off * Control+R = Toggle Record Enable for the selected track Other Useful Keyboard Commands: * Command+Option+A = Add a New Audio Track * Command+Option+S = Add a New Software Instrument Track * Period = Move Forward by Measure * Comma = Move Backwards by Measure * Command+T = Split Region At Playhead * S = Solo Selected Track * M = Mute Selected Track

In this episode we get into the basics of doing some midi recording. You’ll hear the lovely Steinway Grand Piano on a childhood classic while learning some  concepts of how GarageBand handles recording. Grab a copy of GarageBand and lets dive in! Keyboard Commands Covered in this Episode: * K = Toggle Metronome on/off * Shift K = toggle Count In on/off * R = Start recording * SpaceBar = Start/Stop Playback (technically play/pause), Stop Recording * Return = Go to beginning of the project * Command K = Toggle Musical Typing Keyboard on/off * Q = Quantize (Defaults to 16th Note) * Option+UpArrow = Transpose MIDI note up a semi tone * Option+DownArrow = Transpose MIDI Note Down a semi tone * Option+Shift+UpArrow = Transpose MIDI Note up an octave * Option+Shift+DownArrow = Transpose MIDI note down an octave * Command+Option+S = Add a New Software Instrument Track * Period = Move Forward by Measure * Comma = Move Backwards by Measure * Command+T = Split Region At Playhead * S = Solo Selected Track * M = Mute Selected Track

Packed with the greatest hits of sounds from its big brother Logic, GarageBand frees you up to be creative without any of the overwhelming sensation of option paralysis that can confront a new comer in more “Pro” apps. In this introduction we cover acquiring GarageBand, setting up the app, and getting familiar with its interface. Also showing off one of its cool features to get you playing with just your Mac. Grab a copy of GarageBand and lets dive in!

We put the Monster Bluetooth speaker to a sound and drop test, guess what happens? Your life is an adventure, and you need to have CBT wherever your adventure takes you. With an “everything proof” exterior (weatherproof, rust-proof, dust-proof), the Monster® Adventurer can follow you into the fray and survive the most harsh climates and environment. Be prepared! Charging your devices is easy with Adventurer's battery reserve. As you rise to meet any challenge, the Monster Adventurer's sound performance will thrill and excite you. Meet the Adventurer, Monster’s “All-Proof” speaker for your adventurous lifestyle. Features: * All-proof design: Weatherproof, dust-proof, rust-proof, shock-proof * Charge up your phone: Easily charge your cell phone with the USB charge-out feature * Up to 14 hours continuous play with awesome bass * NFC pairing for super-quick connect to your phone * Superb quality speaker phone with echo cancellation * 4 LED indicator lights to see remaining power