Talking Technology with V I Labs
Talking Technology with V I Labs is a podcast from Vision Ireland, the national sight loss agency in Ireland, focused on technology that supports people who are blind or visually impaired. A panel of IT trainers and guest experts discuss the latest mainstream and inclusive technology innovations in an accessible and informative way. V I Labs is the technology function within Vision Ireland and provides technology assessments and training for service users. The show is produced by a not-for-profit charity that supports people of all ages experiencing sight loss.
Episodes
Should you upgrade to iOS 27? - Talking Technology episode 121
On this episode of Talking Technology, we chat with David Nason from the AppleVis editorial team. Dave tells us about some of the new features in iOS 27 and gives his views on if people should upgrade.Our very own David Redmond (yes there are two Davids in this episode) gives us a demo of the new image description features and Joe is very impressed by the new powers that the Action Button now has.
Apple Watch is listening and iPhone has a hinge - Talking Technology extra
On this episode of Talking Technology, we explore all of the announcements from Apple‘s Surprise and Shine event. Mairead and Peter join David to discuss the new iPhone 18 Pro, 18 pro Nax, the Apple Watch series 12 and Ultra four, the new fifth generation of AirPods, and the exciting new iPhone duo. Who is upgrading this year, and are folding phones any good for blind people?Join the conversation
Sean Gallagher on Dragons Den, boxing, and running for president when you’re visually impaired - Talking Technology episode 120
On this episode of Talking Technology, we catch up with Sean Gallagher to learn what it’s like to run for president when you’re visually impaired.We discuss the technology he uses, the impact of modern surgery, as well as what it was like representing the then NCBI on the televised boxing competition Celebrity Lords of the Ring.We have a voice note from Cian on his frustration seeing companies res
New assistance booking app on the way from Irish Rail - Talking Technology episode 119
On this episode of Talking Technology, we are joined by Irish rail to discuss a new assistance booking app that is on the way later this year. Ahead of its launch Ronan discusses how Irish rail assistance actually works and what is going to change.David and Daniel discuss The latest on the Vision Ireland Meta glasses partnership, and we explore how taxi app Bolt is using E scooters to improve acce
Meta and Vision Ireland announce free glasses partnership - Talking Technology extra
It’s a very exciting day in Vision Ireland as we finally get to share details of a groundbreaking new partnership that will see Meta donate 15,000 pairs of Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses to eligible Vision Ireland service users.On this episode, we catch up with Vision Ireland group CEO Chris White and head of Technology Sean Doran to learn about the partnership, and we’re joined by a range of guests w
The future of accessibility at Tesco - Talking Technology episode 118
On this episode of Talking Technology, David takes a trip to a Tesco superstore to hear from James Hurst, head of UX design and research for the store experience.They explore Scan as You Shop, as well as the recent accessibility improvements made to Tesco self-service machines.There’s a long way to go, so David and James discuss new changes that will see accessibility preferences saved to a custom
Brian Hartgen discusses Leasey 11.5, and Mayo are all Ireland champions - Talking Technology episode 117
After 75 years of heartbreak, 11 final defeats, and a curse from a Catholic priest, Mayo finally won the All Ireland. After a weekend that will go down in Irish sporting history for generations to come, Sara tells us what that incredible moment was like with audio description in the stadium.Brian Hartgen from Hartgen Consultancy tells us what’s new in the latest release of their Leasey product, de
What does Vision Ireland want from the budget? - Talking Technology episode 116
On this episode of Talking Technology, we dive into the Vision Ireland pre-budget submission for Budget 2027.The submission contains 13 asks for six different government departments, so Kevin Kelly and Jamie Millar break it all down for us to explain what it’s all about. In tech news, we explore a new assistance booking app from Irish Rail, and we respond to your voice notes discussing various Wha
Magnification, maths and more, the latest updates to NVDA - Talking Technology episode 115
On this episode of Talking Technology, we catch up with Quentin Christensen from NV Access. We learn about upcoming features to the NVDA screen reader as well as how they keep the software secure.We discuss a new variant of the Meta glasses in tech news and share details on why drone delivery won’t be taking off in Ireland anytime soon.Join the conversation with a WhatsApp voice note now. The numb
The technology making professional tandem cycling accessible - Talking Technology Episode 114
On this episode of Talking Technology, we are joined by Jessica Kennedy, who tells us all about the technology she uses when competing internationally at tandem cycling competitions.We explore accessible cooking and the OOrion app in your voice notes, as well as accessibility improvements for Tesco stores.There is an audible Monopoly game for Tonieboxes in tech news, and how are blind people benef
Recap of WWDC 2026, and an all-new Siri - Talking Technology extra
On this episode of Talking Technology, we dive into the new updates announced by Apple at yesterday‘s Worldwide Developers Conference Keynote. The big topic of conversation is, of course, the new and improved Siri, but why aren’t we getting it in Europe yet?David Redmond, Daniel Dunne, Derry Lawler, and Tyler Stephen discuss all that and more. Join the conversation with a WhatsApp voice note. The
What’s the news? - Talking Technology episode 113
On this episode of Talking Technology, we explore how you can access the news in an accessible format.Brian discusses the importance of staying informed and how blind people can participate equally in the information age, and we demo news apps including The Journal, The Irish Times, and The Irish Examiner.We explore the world of audiobooks and hear about some of the teams recent reads, and we hear
New Apple Accessibility Features and the Latest in the World of Braille – Talking Technology Episode 112
On this episode of Talking Technology, we react to the latest accessibility features announced by Apple.Peter joins us to discuss updates to digital braille devices, including news on the BrailleNote Evolve and the BrailleSense 7. We also explore the Paige Braille app for those learning braille for the first time with Mairead, while Brian tells us everything we need to know about a new braille boo
What’s with all the labels? A chat with Hable about Speechlabels - Talking Technology episode 111
On this episode of Talking Technology, we learn about Speechlabels, a new product from the team behind the Hable One and Hable Easy smartphone controllers.The team also tell us about Stactiles, their new tactile sticker product.We explore new laptop chargers and Meta Glasses in Tech News, and can GameStop afford to buy eBay?All that and more on the latest episode of Talking Technology with V I Lab
Tim Cook steps down, and a new Irish assistive technology company - Talking Technology episode 110
Tim Cook is officially stepping down as Apple CEO in September. In this episode of Talking Technology, David and Joe react to the news.Nathan Proudfoot tells us what it’s like to launch an assistive technology company as a teenager and shares his new calculator app available on iOS, Android, and Windows devices.We explore Fire TV and Firefox improvements in tech news, and we discuss the launch of
What is Aira? And how does visual interpreting work? Talking Technology episode 109
On this episode of Talking Technology, we discuss the world of visual interpreting with Aira. Jenine Stanley discusses what Aira is and how the platform works, sharing exciting news on the future of integrations with the Meta glasses.We also hear from Rebekah, who is a visual interpreter for the service. She shares what kind of tasks people use Aira for as well as some of the coolest things that s
Tactile graphics, iPhone warnings, and the latest from CSUN 2026 - Talking Technology 108
On this episode of Talking Technology, we catch up with Michael Grimes from Canon to learn about their world unseen exhibition and the technology behind printing tactile images.We share our thoughts on the latest updates from the CSUN conference in the US, discussing new products from Habel, as well as lots of Meta Glasses updates. We discuss the Garda iPhone warning and share how Vision Ireland c
What is the weWALK Smart Cane? - Talking Technology episode 107
On this episode of Talking Technology, we explore the WeWALK smart Cane and ask how technology can be used to enhance the traditional long cane we know and love. Jean Marc Feghali Chief Innovation Officer at WeWALK tells us about the WeWALK smart cane too and shares some exclusive news on their ever expanding WeAssist service. We dive into all the new products from Apple, discuss the new tech supp
Audio Description research in Ireland, and Be My Eyes in the workplace - Talking Technology episode 106
On this episode of Talking Technology, we catch up with Lucia Pintado Gutierrez to learn about her ADESI research looking at audio description in Ireland. We explore the newly announced Be My Eyes Workplace in Tech News, and speculate on what new fancy toys we might be getting at next weeks Apple event.Joe investigates why David made the RTE News, and shares details of a new public Consultation be
Making Europe more accessible. IAAP comes to Dublin - Talking Technology episode 105
The International Association of Accessibility Professionals, in association with Vially, brought their EU conference to Dublin last week. David caught up with some of the speakers from the event to learn more. Vision Ireland’s group CEO, Chris White, calls for stronger leadership and enforcement of the European Accessibility Act, and explains why Vision Ireland made a complaint to the Irish Avia
Irish Braille is changing - Talking Technology episode 104
On this episode of Talking Technology, we’re discussing all things Braille.Peter Claridge-Bowler tells us about the Brailliant BI 20 and BI 40 X Braille displays from Humanware. Are they any good?Lina Kouzi from the Vision Ireland library and INBAF tells us about the new unified Irish Braille code, and what it means for those who have been using the Irish language Braille code previously.And we ca
Jaws, Zoomtext, and something new. A conversation with the CEO of Vispero - Talking Technology episode 103
On this packed episode of Talking Technology, we catch up with Rhonda Bassett-Spiers, the CEO of Jaws maker Vispero. We discuss what’s new in Jaws and Zoomtext, and we hear details of an entirely new product currently in development. We discuss Vispero accounts and changes to how Jaws and Zoomtext licences work, and could Vispero partner with or purchase Be My Eyes? We discuss all that and more.De
Christmas is finally here - Talking Technology episode 102
On this episode of Talking Technology with V I Labs, David and Joe discuss the Christmas movies and TV available with audio description. Is Frozen a Christmas movie? Santa joins us to discuss his master plan to move to the South Pole as a result of global warming, and shares the emotional moment when his Meta Glasses gave a beautiful description of Mrs Claus in the snow. Was Glide the lowlight of
Jaws and NVDA, the similarities and differences - Talking Technology Episode 101
On this episode of Talking Technology, we give you all the best bits from our Jaws and NVDA event which took place last week. What are the similarities and differences between these two popular screen readers? Peter and Brian put them to the test to find out.David and Joe discuss the audio-described Toy Show, and it’s Android update time in tech news.Send us a voice note with your thoughts now. Th
Sight Village 2025 in London, and we finally made it - Talking Technology Episode 100
We have finally reached episode 100 of Talking Technology. Thank you so much for listening.On this episode, we take a trip to London to explore some of the latest technology at Sight Village 2025. From new Braille devices to talking tactile ballot paper templates, there really is a lot to explore.We discussed the addition of live audio description for this year‘s toy show and check out a new AI to
Accessible voting and BlindShell Updates – Talking Technology episode 99
On this episode of Talking Technology, we explore accessibility issues from the recent presidential election in Ireland and discuss updates for the BlindShell smartphone.With Ireland recently electing a new president, we share views of those using the ballot paper template. Is voting in Ireland truly accessible?BlindShell finally supports the Meta glasses, but is the phone living up to its claims
Big updates for Braille users – Talking Technology episode 98
On this episode of Talking Technology, it’s all about Braille.We explore the new Braille access feature included with iOS 26, and we get a demo of its capabilities from our very own Mairead O'Mahony.Brian discusses how Meta glasses can be used with Braille displays and explains why this is so important.We discuss architecture in this week’s tech news and tell you about some exclusive content
Major updates at Sky, and the people making RTÉ Player accessible – Talking Technology episode 97
On this episode of Talking Technology, we catch up with David Nason from Sky to learn about lots of exciting new accessibility improvements across their Sky TV products.With audio description for on-demand content and major improvements to the voice guidance screen reader, there’s a lot to discuss.Back in episode 90 of Talking Technology, we explored the accessibility updates for RTÉ Player. In th
Meta Glasses get a serious upgrade – Talking Technology episode 96
On this episode of Talking Technology, we have news on the latest updates to Meta glasses. With improvements to both the hardware and software, Meta are continuing to up their game. We have questions on video doorbells and accessible gaming, and a discussion on the latest iOS 26 update. Daniel explains mesh Wi-Fi systems, and what’s going on at AIB?All that and more on this episode of Talking Tech
iPhone 17, iPhone Air, new Apple watches and more – Talking Technology episode 95
Apple has announced lots of new products. In this episode of Talking Technology, we recap their iPhone 17 event, exploring what’s new. Mairead, Joe and David share their thoughts on the new AirPods, Apple Watches and iPhones, and decide if they will be purchasing any new toys following the event.Let us know your thoughts with a WhatsApp voice note. The number you need is +353 86 199 00110:00 Intro
Talking Technology with V I Labs Episode 94 - pregnancy tests for blind people
For someone who is blind or visually impaired, how do you get the result of a pregnancy test? Often, a blind or visually impaired person isn’t the first to know about their own test result. This is because traditionally, pregnancy tests, as well as many other health-related checks, have been inaccessible. On this episode, we speak with Leah Shanahan about AMY, a pregnancy test that she has designe
Talking Technology with V I Labs Episode 93 - Glide not coming to Europe for the foreseeable future
On this extra episode of Talking Technology, we only have one topic on the agenda. Glidance, makers of the new glide mobility aid, have announced that the product won’t be coming to Europe at launch, and all European customers are being refunded.We speak to CEO Amos Miller to ask why they made the decision they did, what this means for the future of glide, and how it will impact those who purchase
Talking Technology with V I Labs episode 92 - New courses from Vision Ireland
In this episode of Talking Technology, we explore some of the upcoming courses available from Vision Ireland.We catch up with Dominique and Des to hear their perspective on courses, as well as hearing from Dereck about what we can expect in the future.We receive a much-anticipated update on Raheem‘s smart washing machine drama, discuss the benefits of meta glasses in a Jacuzzi, as well as learning
Talking Technology Extra - Envision announce Ally solos smart glasses
Assistive technology company Envision has announced new Ally Solos glasses in a bid to compete with Meta. The new glasses are initially priced at €399, and contain many of the features we’ve come to expect from smart glasses, such as the ability to read documents, describe surroundings, and listen to audio through the glasses connected to your phone. In this extra podcast, David and Joe discuss t
Talking Technology with V I Labs Episode 91 - Let’s talk about the Meta Glasses
Meta Glasses have been a major topic of conversation for blind people for a few months at this point, but unfortunately, those in Ireland were left out.Things are finally starting to change, however, so in this podcast we try out the Meta Glasses without a VPN in sight. Are wearables the next step forward for those who are blind or visually impaired?As well as our in-depth look at Meta Glasses, we
Talking Technology with V I Labs Episode 90 - What just happened to RTÉ Player?
It’s fair to say that RTÉ Player has had ups and downs when it comes to accessibility over the years. With the European Accessibility Act now in full effect, though, the team at RTÉ seem to be rolling out major upgrades. In this episode, we take a look at what’s new both on mobile and on the web, and discuss some of the audio-described content that’s available.In less positive media news, we discu
Talking Technology with V I Labs episode 89 - Would David make a good getaway driver? Zero Limits 2025
On this episode of Talking Technology, we attend the Zero Limits Track Day in Mondello Park.We speak to those attending to get their views on the future possibility of self-driving cars and ask if this technology would be embraced by those with sight loss.David tries driving for the first time, and it turns out there’s hope for him yet as a getaway driver. What could possibly go wrong?Vision Sport
Talking Technology with V I Labs episode 88 - the European Accessibility Act explained
The European Accessibility Act is now in full effect, but what does it mean exactly? Will it actually make a difference for those who are blind or visually impaired?This week on the show, we catch up with Vision Ireland’s new head of technology, Sean Doran, and head of sales at sister company Vially, Andrew Power, to learn about the European Accessibility Act and how companies are responding to it
Talking Technology with V I Labs episode 87 - described GAA comes to Croke Park
On this episode of Talking Technology, we’re playing a game of catch-up as we check in on all the voice notes you sent us in recent weeks. Comments include thoughts on our use of chapter markers, WhatsApp’s arrival on iPad, and the Sullivan+ app.We also catch up with Sean Breslin, who is providing audio descriptive commentary for Croke Park, and we have a statement from a lady with the coolest job
Talking Technology with V I Labs Episode 86 - your thoughts on Glide, and what in the world is Liquid Glass?
After a very successful demo day at the Wayfinding Centre in Dublin, lots of people share their feelings on Glide. Some loved the device and can’t wait to get one, while others ask what it means for the future of the guide dog. Does Glide risk making guide dog refusal more acceptable? With Apple launching a new design across their platforms, we discuss how it will impact those with low vision. Are
Talking Technology Extra - Glide Demo Day in Dublin
On this episode of Talking Technology extra, we meet the team from Glide ahead of their demo day in Dublin. We take a trip to The Wayfinding Centre to meet Amos Miller and Luke Buckberrough (co founders of Glide’s parent company Glidance Inc.).They explain what the product is, discuss recent delays, and tell us about their ambitious vision for the future. Would you use Glide? Send us a WhatsApp v
Talking Technology with V I Labs episode 85 - Freek van Welsenis discusses all things Hable
On this week’s Talking Technology, cofounder of Hable Freek van Welsenis discusses the company’s Hable One product and the Hable Easy. He tells us of the company’s aim to become a major player in the low-cost assistive technology space.In tech news, we hear about WhatsApp for iPad and a new partnership between Aira and Google. And what’s your favourite podcast app? We want to hear about it.Send us
Talking Technology with V I Labs episode 84 - Apple Updates, and Stuart Lawler talks Paige Braille
On this episode of Talking Technology, we are joined by Stuart Lawler who tells us all about the Paige Braille. We discuss the latest accessibility features announced by Apple including accessibility reader and braille access, and in tech news we explore a new solution for training Deaf dogs. No, that’s not a typo. We pay a visit to a school in Gorey to chat Braille with some SNAs, and is smart sp
Talking Technology with V I Labs Episode 83 - Jaws to become subscription service for Irish users
On today’s episode of Talking Technology with V I Labs, we are joined by Matt Ater, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Vespero. Matt tells us about the latest in the world of Jaws, including updates to Jaws for Windows and how Jaws is installed on McDonald’s self-service kiosks in America.We also hear that Jaws will be moving into a subscription model for purchases around the world in
Talking Technology with V I Labs Episode 82 – Fire TV Sticks with VoiceView, and Asking a Talking Tree for Directions
In this episode of Talking Technology, Joe shows us accessible streaming devices, including the Apple TV 4K and Amazon Fire Stick. How do these devices work for blind and low vision users?In tech news, we hear about exciting innovations from Samsung, as well as a new medical device aiming to help with dry eyes.After an RTÉ news report about an AI-powered talking tree, David and Joe ask if talking
Talking Technology with V I Labs episode 81 - let’s try the Hark AI reading machine
On this episode of Talking Technology, we try the Hark AI reading machine from Humanware. Is it worth its hefty price tag?The Nintendo Switch 2 is getting a screen reader, and what if your AirPods could see? All that and more in tech news. Daniel tells us about exciting updates for Android devices, and would you use Roy Keene as your screen reader voice?To provide feedback on the Consumer Protecti
Talking Technology with V I Labs Episode 80 - Everything you need to know about Envision ally
On this episode of Talking Technology, we catch up with Karthik Kannan CTO at Envision to learn all about the new ally app. We discuss pricing, future plans, and the role of Envision Glasses in the Meta Ray-Ban world. We hear your thoughts on AirTag and air fryers, and in tech news we explore a new collaboration aiming to make games more accessible.Join the conversation with a WhatsApp voice note.
Talking Technology With V I Labs episode 79 - CSUN, Seable, and accessible holidays for the blind
This week on Talking Technology, we take a trip to Anaheim in California, as our very own Denis Nolan gives us a preview of CSUN 2025.Lucy Ashton joins us from Seable to discuss accessible holidays for the blind, and she tells us how technology is changing what people want from their holiday experience. We’ve got updates on new apps from Envision, and do jaws users really want The New Insert J Clu
Talking Technology with V I Labs Episode 78 - new iPhones, new technology trainers, and the death of the home button
This week on Talking Technology, we meet Elaine Power who joins the V I Labs team in the south east of the country. We discuss the new iPhone 16 E as well as the death of the iPhone SE line, and we ask what we can expect from tomorrow’s announcement of the next generation Alexa.Send us a voice note with your thoughts now. The number you need is 086 199 0011. International listeners can use +353 86
Talking Technology with V I Labs Episode 77: Ian McKinley Discusses Audio Description for the Six Nations
On this episode of Talking Technology , we chat with Ian McKinley about the new audio descriptive commentary being provided for Irish viewers of the Six Nations. He also discusses his own career and how visual impairment has changed the way he plays the game.We have loads of your comments and questions on everything from blood pressure monitors to video doorbells, and we discuss a bid from Elon Mu
Talking Technology with V I labs episode 76 - gyms, Slimming World, and movie stars with disabilities
This week on Talking Technology we’re chatting all things accessible health and fitness.We explore some of the really cool supports available for blind and partially sighted customers at Slimming World, and we catch up with our colleagues at vision sports to discuss the accessibility of the gym.We have tons of your voice notes to get through, and in tech news we ask the question, could you be a mo
Talking Technology With V I Labs Episode 75 - don’t throw your Braille display down the stairs
This week on Talking Technology we caught up with Andrew Flatres from HumanWare to discuss the monarch, a new device capable of displaying braille and tactile graphics. Andrew tells us about the really cool new capability’s of the device, and why they threw one down a metal staircase in Canada. Did we mention they cost £14,000?In tech news we discuss the impact of cuts to diversity, equity and in
Talking Technology With V I Labs Episode 74 - what just happened? A look back at 2024
Technology is always moving forward. In this Episode David, Joe, Mairead and Daniel look back at the biggest stories of 2024, and bravely look forward into the great unknown that is 2025. Support the show
Talking Technology with V I Labs Episode 73 - AppleVis, Movies, and Santa at The All Ireland
Are David and Joe on the naughty or nice list? We speak to Santa in a desperate bid to find out. We also discuss the AppleVis golden apple awards for 2024, and some of the movies and TV shows with audio description for the Christmas period.Support the show
Talking Technology with V I Labs Episode 72 - Blindshell talk Classic 3, and Huawei’s new screen reader
We catch up with filip and Lukáš from Blindshell to learn all about the newly released Blindshell Classic 3.The team discuss why they changed direction on support for third-party apps, as well as their future plans for Classic 2 and 3. In tech news we hear of an exciting win for young developer Maura Moore-McCune, and Huawei are rolling out a whole new screen reader. finally, we take a look at som
Talking Technology with V I Labs Episode 71 - Seeing AI now describes your videos
On this weeks show we dive straight into your voice notes and explore the new Seeing AI feature for describing video.The Blindshell classic three makes an appearance in tech news and we say goodbye to the Apple headphone adapter.Support the show
Talking Technology With V I Labs Episode 70 - Live from Sight Village London
This week we’re spead dating at Sight Village in London. How many stands can David talk to, and what familiar faces will he meet along the way?Jaws 2025 has been released, and Joe returns to correct the record and tell David off. Send a voice note on WhatsApp now to 086 199 0011. Support the show
Talking Technology With V I Labs episode 69 - Braille, Brian, and Bitcoin
On this week’s Talking Technology Mairead shows off the new features in braille screen input for iOS.Brian gives us a demo of the HumanWare Braille Note Touch, and Daniel is not a bitcoin millionaire.join the conversation with a WhatsApp voice note to 086 199 0011, or email content@vi.ieSupport the show
Talking Technology with V I Labs Episode 68 - Voice Notes and Goats
It’s a packed Show today as David and Joe listen to some of the voice notes sent in to the Show recently. Topics include everything from Elon Musk‘s Blindsight device to the accessibility of the new digital census. We speak to Ed Harper about some of the tech helping him run his Goat Farm without sight, and he tells us about a really cool solution called no fence.Technology news features robotic t
Talking Technology with V I Labs Episode 67 - IOS 18, Cobolt, and what is a Pan Pickle?
In the latest episode of Talking Technology the team discuss all the latest updates from Apple‘s new iOS 18 release and ask the question why aren’t we getting Apple Intelligence in Ireland for ages.Cobalt join us to talk about some of the appliances in Their range, and share their views on smart tech as the company turns 40. David and Joe listen to your voice notes learning all about the Pan Pickl
Talking Technology with V I Labs episode 66 - new iPhones, free jaws licences, and €13.1 Billion
In this weeks Talking Technology we’ve assembled a super panel of accessibility experts to chat about Apples GlowTime event. From new iPhones and Apple watches to AirPods becoming hearing aids, we discuss it all and share if we will be upgrading.In Tech News we chat about winning free Jaws licences, and with €13.1 billion hanging around following the Apple tax ruling, Daniel feels Talking Technolo
Talking Technology with V I Labs episode 65 - ovens, fridges, taps and hobs, Ireland’s smartest accessible kitchen
From adjusting the fridge temperature using a smart phone app to controlling your oven with Alexa, in this podcast we explore the power of a kitchen built to be smart and accessible.Things aren’t all sunshine and roses however as we explore the safety concerns with smart hobs and Quooker taps. We’ve got the new Virgin Media Play app And allegedly fake accessibility advocates in tech news, and we d
Talking Technology extra: Be My Eyes acquire AppleVis
Wow, sometimes stories come along that you just don’t expect. David and Joe share their thoughts now with a special episode of Talking Technology Extra, as Be My Eyes acquire AppleVis. Support the show
Talking technology with V I Labs Episode 64 - Are solar panels accessible?
Joe has got solar panels on his house, but is the app accessible? What’s the process like? We talk all that and more in this super sustainable episode of Talking Technology.Elaine Slator from the Vision Ireland retail team tells us about the online efforts in the charity shop space, and how you can get some preloved goodies. We chat accessible gaming in tech news, and head down under for a sunshin
Talking Technology with V I Labs episode 63 | Meta smart glasses and audio described theatre
On this weeks Talking Technology David and Joe discuss the Meta smart glasses. As OrCam become the first big AI glasses maker to leave the assistive technology space, what do the Meta glasses tell us for the future. With the Bord Gas Energy theatre gearing up for an audio described performance of Wicked, we chat to them to ask how it all works. Be My Eyes discuss data sharing in tech news, and we
Talking Technology with V I Labs episode 62 - Bookshare on Alexa and Barbie needs a screen reader
On this weeks talking technology we talk to the team behind the new Vision Ireland Bookshare skill on Alexa, and we’ll also give you a demo where you’ll get an insight into David’s favourite book.With the announcement of blind Barbie dolls, we ask the question does Barbie need a screen reader now? We discuss audio description in the upcoming Olympics and some super cool tactile tools in the kitche
Talking Technology With V I Labs Episode 61 - Was David wrong to write off PiccyBot?
This week on Talking Technology we dive deeper into description app PiccyBot with its developer Martijn van der Spek. With David not finding much use for PiccyBot last time we spoke about it on Quick Picks, will he be eating his words?In tech news we tell you about a new service launching for Vision Ireland Bookshare users as well as checking out a ton of announcements from Aira. Support the show
Talking Technology Episode 60 – Voice Notes, Audio Described Sports Commentary, and Be My Eyes’ Inclusive Language Guide
We kick off the show this week by sharing your voice notes on a range of topics, from AfterShokz headphones to accessible dating apps. Next, we dive into the world of Audio Described Sports Commentary, a service that brings all the excitement of live football to fans with sight loss. Shamrock Rovers FC audio described commentator Phelim Warren joins us to explain how he's making this possible
Talking Technology with V I Labs episode 59 | WWDC24, Digital Exams, and Dating in Japan
Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference took place last night so David Nason joins us to talk about all that’s new with Apple's platforms. In Talking Technology news we discuss Vision Ireland‘s response to the issues visually impaired students had with digital exam papers, as well as chatting about a government dating app in Japan making citizens sign marriage letters. We also discuss th
Talking Technology Episode 58 – Aira, the Electoral Commission talk Assistive Technology, and Be My Eyes AI on Windows
Ahead of the upcoming local and European Elections this Friday, June 7th, we explore accessible voting options and the potentials of technology for people with sight loss. Brian Dawson, Communications and Public Engagement Manager at The Electoral Commission, joins us to tell us more.We learn about an interesting use case of Aira shared by one of our listeners and discuss the launch of Be My AI, t
Talking Technology with V I Labs Episode 57 – Braille for education, Voice Notes, and a little bit of Brian
On the show today we speak with Brian about a Braille morning that was held in UCC and discuss how digital Braille can be used in education. We play more of your voice notes and hear from Deirdre Maddin who is the outreach worker for the Disability Support Service in UCC about the services they offer students. Interested in learning Braille through your smartphone? Mairead discusses apps for learn
Talking Technology with V I Labs episode 56 - it’s big and it’s thin, Apple Event recap
Apple has just announced new upgrades for their iPad Air and iPad Pro. The V I Labs team discuss what’s new, and what it all means for those with sight loss. Support the show
Talking Technology Episode 55 – Would you listen to AI-Generated Music?
The power and potential of AI have featured more and more in the news as of late. From text and document analysis to image creation, the possibilities of AI for people with sight loss are endless. And now, AI is starting to enter the music space.On today's show, we share an album created entirely using AI and ask the question: "Would you give AI-generated music a chance?"Support the
Talking Technology with V I Labs Episode 54 – Aira, Voice Dream, and a Solar Eclipse
On the show this week we catch up with Everette Bacon, Vice President of Blindness Initiatives at Aira Technologies to find out about the inspiration behind this popular app, how it works, and future developments including the new Access AI Feature.Voice Dream Reader, the highly regarded text-to-speech reading app, was set to be the latest beloved app to adopt a subscription model. But now that’s
Talking Technology with V I Labs episode 53 - Exploring the accessibility features on the Samsung S90C Smart TV
On the show this week, David and Joe have a listen to all of your voice notes, and Joe gives us a tour of the accessibility features on the Samsung S90C Smart TV. We share all the latest tech news including a groundbreaking audio description research study, and explore the world of Siri Shortcuts in Quick Picks. Join the conversation by sending an email to content@VI.ie or send us a WhatsApp voice
Talking Technology with V I Labs Episode 52 - will you be my Vision Buddy? Top Screen Readers revealed, & Accessible Power Banks
On the show this week we check out the Vision Buddy, an innovative TV-watching system for the visually impaired, featuring HD streaming and magnification. CEO Zack Afridi joins us to unveil the latest updates to the 4th Generation of this product.We reveal the standout results of the 10th WebAIM Screen Reader User Survey and discuss the versatility of Energrid’s accessible power banks, perfect for
Talking Technology With V I Labs Episode 51 – glasses, voice notes, and audio described rugby
Lightweight and designed to be worn all day, Envision AI Smart Glasses provide access to all kinds of information to the vision-impaired user. Joining us on the show to tell us more is Envision's co-founder and Chief Technical Officer, Karthik Kannan.We explore the latest member of Amazon’s Echo family, the Echo Pop, featuring Alexa voice control, smart home integration and a more budget-frie
Talking Technology with V I Labs, episode 50 - unboxing the accessible talking Air Fryer, with a few WhatsApp Voice Notes
This week we tell you about a brand-new way that you can interact with Talking Technology. You can now send us a voice note on WhatsApp by using the number 086 199 0011. We can’t wait to hear your thoughts. We also unbox the new Talking air fryer from Cobolt. Could this be the most accessible air fryer yet?It’s audio description from Google and Safer Internet Day in tech news. And we chat more abo
Talking technology with V I Labs Episode 49 - CES, Young Scientists, and David’s new rabbit
This week on Talking Technology David and Joe discuss all the big news from CES 2024 which took place in recent weeks. JP attended the BT Young Scientist exhibition and we hear from one of its visually impaired contributors. It’s accessible gaming and noodles in tech news this week, and David becomes the Voice of a Talking Calculator in Quick Picks. We also have an appearance from a random Rabbit.
Talking Technology Episode 48 – Braille in Everyday Life
Join us as we celebrate Braille Literacy Month and dive into the world of Braille in our daily lives! Mairead starts the conversation by exploring the presence of Braille in everyday places and the benefits of using Braille labelling. Next, Brian shares his personal Braille experience when ordering from a menu and reading Braille subtitles on his favourite Netflix shows. Wrapping up the episode, M
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