Double Tap

Today on the show, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece meet Mike Shebanek, a pivotal figure in the development of Apple VoiceOver. They explore the history of accessibility at Apple, the myths surrounding the creation of VoiceOver, and the importance of community feedback in its development. Mike shares his journey from product management to leading accessibility initiatives, emphasizing the need for inclusive technology that benefits everyone. The discussion also touches on his transition to Meta and the challenges of ensuring accessibility across a vast user base. He also discusses his experiences at Meta, focusing on the challenges and innovations in making technology accessible for all. He highlights the importance of measuring accessibility accurately and the role of AI in enhancing user experiences. Transitioning to his current role at Be My Eyes, he emphasizes the development of hands-free wearable technology that aims to empower blind users. The discussion also touches on the future of AI and its potential to improve accessibility, as well as the significance of integrating assistive technology into mainstream products.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 Intro02:31 Mike Shebbeneck's Journey at Apple05:52 The Origins of VoiceOver: Myths and Realities10:21 The Vision Behind Accessibility at Apple15:27 Community Engagement and Feedback in Development20:09 The Evolution of VoiceOver and Its Features25:51 Transitioning to Meta: Accessibility Challenges and Insights28:42 Building Accessibility at Meta33:23 Innovations in AI for Accessibility37:05 Transition to Be My Eyes39:30 Hands-Free Wearable Technology45:11 The Future of AI and Accessibility

On today’s show, Steven and Shaun get into a lively discussion about the ongoing debate between Mac and Windows users. They explore their personal experiences with both operating system and dive into the complexities of using both systems simultaneously. The guys are joined by regular guest and podcast host Michael Babcock, and they discuss the intricacies of using Windows and Mac systems, focusing on compatibility, user experience, and the best tools for productivity. They also explore the advantages of each platform, the importance of choosing the right computer, and how to integrate both systems effectively.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 Introduction to the Mac vs. Windows Debate03:50 The Return to Mac: Experiences and Insights06:48 The Evolution of ARM and Legacy Software09:38 Choosing the Right Computer: Mac vs. Windows12:38 The Value of Mac Mini and Portability15:48 Gaming and Desktop vs. Laptop Preferences18:42 Final Thoughts on Mac and Windows Experiences32:22 Navigating Windows and Mac Integration38:22 Comparing Virtualization Software: Parallels vs. VMware Fusion44:26 Productivity Tools and File Management

Today on the show, Steven and Shaun discuss the new Lotus Smart Switches and hear listener insights on sight loss and the challenges of learning Braille.The guys begin with a short demonstration of the new Lotus Smart Switches from listener Kevin Chao, who shared a video unboxing of the switches and the easy set up process that goes with them.There’s lots of interesting topics in the inbox as usual, including the desire for more braille learning opportunities for later learners, the meaning of blind culture compared to other disability cultures, the state of Microsoft and its ARM ambitions, and what exactly UV light does for a water bottle.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 Intro05:22 Exploring Smart Home Solutions: Lotus Smart Switches11:24 Learning Braille: Challenges and Recommendations17:37 Navigating Vision Loss: Personal Experiences23:25 UV Water Bottles and Be My Eyes30:01 The Impact of Cochlear Implants on Deaf Communities36:01 Understanding Accessibility and Technology Use41:24 Braille Technology and Its Evolution47:55 ARM Technology and Its Implications53:45 The Future of Audio Description in Live Events

Today on Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece chat about the challenges of smart home devices, and the issues Steven has had trying to connect smart devices on the move.Today’s show is really all about you, as we dive into the inbox to hear listener emails discussing AI functionality in Meta Ray Bands, thoughts on the new Blindshell Classic 3, and the importance of community support in learning about new technology.Steven sets out his thoughts on the need for better education and resources for blind people who want to learn assistive and mainstream technology, while Shaun questions the public perceptions of blind people out there.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 Intro05:54 Smart Home Devices: Thermostats and Accessibility Issues11:56 Listener Feedback: AI and Meta Ray Bands20:59 Listener Feedback: Synapptic, BlindShell & Kapsys Smartphones40:52 Listener Feedback: Symbols and Their Significance52:25 Listener Feedback: Friendly Banter