Apple Releases iOS 8 with Major Accessibility Improvements

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.maclife.com/files/imagecache/futureus_imagegallery_fullsize/gallery/ios_8_intro_2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://www.maclife.com/files/imagecache/futureus_imagegallery_fullsize/gallery/ios_8_intro_2.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Today, Apple released <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/06/ios-8-more-accessible-than-ever.html">iOS 8</a> the latest software update for <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/09/what-larger-screen-iphone-means-for.html">iPhone</a>, iPad, and iPod Touch. The new software, which is available for free, includes many new features and enhancements, including new accessibility features and tools that will allow developers to make the next generation of apps. Apple has not stood still in terms accessibility and as a result, iOS 8 is truly the most accessible and inclusive <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/06/ios-8-more-accessible-than-ever.html">iOS</a> version to date.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Some of the most exciting new accessibility features are included in iOS are ready to use right after updating. These features are developed by Apple, and most are found under Settings > General > Accessibility. </span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;">Speak Screen is one of the new accessibility features that allows users to quickly and easily have content on the screen read with <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/11/claropdf-app-pdf-text-to-speech-and.html">text-to-speech</a> with a simple two finger swipe down gesture. Unlike older versions of iOS which required users to highlight sections that they wished to be spoken, Speak Screen does not require any highlighting. Users can even ask Siri to “speak the screen” to start text-to-speech. </span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;">Apple’s highly acclaimed screen reader, <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/06/happy-birthday-voiceover.html">VoiceOver</a>, also received some substantial updates. Now, <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/06/happy-birthday-voiceover.html">VoiceOver</a> users can enter text using a system-wide virtual six-dot Braille keyboard. Zoom is also vastly improved with windowed magnification and filters. <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2012/09/what-is-guided-access.html">Guided Access</a> and <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2011/07/what-is-assistive-touch.html">AssistiveTouch</a> have seen smaller improvements. </span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;">In addition, all accessibility features that use speech will now be able to use the Alex text-to-speech voice that many Mac users enjoy. All of these features are included with the iOS 8 update. Stay tuned for in depth information about the features discussed above in the coming days and weeks.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">With iOS 8, Apple has given developers tools to make the next generation of great apps. Hopefully, assistive app makers will be able to take advantage of these new features to help people with various needs. Developers can now make system wide keyboard apps. iOS keyboards will now be able to enter text into any app if the developer updates the app for <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/06/ios-8-more-accessible-than-ever.html">iOS 8</a>. For example, <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/02/eye-free-typing-app-fleksy-now-free.html">Fleksy</a> and SwiftKey are expect to receive an update shortly to enable text entry into any app. Developers can also add the ability to unlock their app using <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/09/the-touch-id-fingerprint-sensor-on-new.html">Touch ID</a>finger print recognition for devices with Touch ID. Lastly, developers can create extensions to allow their app to perform functions within other apps. For example, a translation extension could be used within Safari to eliminate the need to switch apps. </span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;">These features open up a whole new world to app developers and it will be exciting to use some of the new apps that take advantage of these new developer features. While some apps have already been updated to take advantage of the new developer features in iOS, many have not been. Check back to read about some apps that are taking advantage of these new developer features in ways that can help people with disabilities.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/06/ios-8-more-accessible-than-ever.html">iOS 8</a> is a free update that you can download now. Stay tuned to the Assistive Technology Blog to learn more about the new included <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/05/apple-begins-hosting-free-accessibility.html">accessibility</a> features and about apps that take advantage of the new developer features.</span><o:p></o:p></div>

Diposting oleh Abdullah Syafii

Too Much Background Noise when Recording Lectures with Smart Phone or Table Built-in Microphone? Check Out the Ampridge MightMic

<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCRt4pPrYmhoyAC8Z2hprrt-_LHg0lEt4b44tNnnXlM7aRVm1pWCglu2QmeSH-ux8qlXrbFAglLNHbNo4g8I3STN1FAgeyYXo3TJvCVQejy-5L_8MlZr9F1aLTHQwTuqwxSL4aljrcW1A/s1600/AmpRidge+Mic+Updated.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCRt4pPrYmhoyAC8Z2hprrt-_LHg0lEt4b44tNnnXlM7aRVm1pWCglu2QmeSH-ux8qlXrbFAglLNHbNo4g8I3STN1FAgeyYXo3TJvCVQejy-5L_8MlZr9F1aLTHQwTuqwxSL4aljrcW1A/s1600/AmpRidge+Mic+Updated.jpg" title="Images of MightyMic plugged into iPhone 5s" width="320" /></a></div><br /></div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Mobile devices are convenient tools that students use to record classes and lectures, reporters use to record news conferences, and business people use to record meetings. Some use note taking apps like <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2011/10/notability-note-taking-app-for-ipad.html">Notability</a>, <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2012/02/is-remarks-app-remarkable.html">Remarks</a>, or <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/11/livescribe-3-smartpen-do-more-with-your.html">Livescribe+</a> to augment their notes with audio recordings. The benefits of recording the audio can be minimized by poor quality recordings from built-in microphones.</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span> <span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Built-in microphones tend to do a poor job of isolating sounds which results in background noise that makes the desired sounds difficult to hear, especially for people with hearing impairments.</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">The AmpRidge MightyMic microphone plugs directly into the headphone jack of any smartphone, tablet, or computer that supports microphone input. It proves an alternative audio output jack so users can still plug in headphones while the microphone is plugged in. Its compact size makes it easy to use in class and makes in relatively discrete. The MightyMic microphone works well with an <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/11/made-for-iphone-hearing-aids-to-be.html">iPhone</a> and is only slightly longer wider than the width of the phone. The microphone  even worked fine with my bulky iPhone case. Once plugged in you can angle the microphone towards the front of the room to capture the most important sounds. In my testing, the MightyMic microphone was on par with the built-in iPhone microphone for close range recording, but worked considerably better than the built-in microphone in a classroom or outdoor long range environment. The MightyMic microphone reduced background noise resulting in better sounding audio playback. If you frequently record classes, lectures, or meetings and are less than satisfied with your device's built-in microphone, the MightyMic mic is a good option to give your sound a boost. If you're looking for a big improvement in sound quality quality you may have to look towards more expensive options.</span></span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #222222;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222;">The Ampridge MightyMic retails for $70 on </span><a href="http://www.ampridge.com/amp-mms.html" style="color: #222222;">AmpRidge.com</a><span style="color: #222222;">. Also included is a protective carrying pouch and foam protective cover.</span></span></span><br /><a name="more"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.ampridge.com/wpimages/wp83cbf4dd_05_06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="155" src="http://www.ampridge.com/wpimages/wp83cbf4dd_05_06.jpg" title="Image of Mighty Mic and foam protective cover" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;">Product was provide complimentary to reviewer for review</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div><br />

Diposting oleh Abdullah Syafii

Learning Ally Audio Update Includes Background Audio Support

<div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/E3Z3JoXCau0?rel=0" width="560"></iframe><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://a2.mzstatic.com/us/r30/Purple/v4/0f/1d/86/0f1d86fe-b7f7-0d9a-51be-68de18da5c7b/mzl.llxafqoz.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="75" src="http://a2.mzstatic.com/us/r30/Purple/v4/0f/1d/86/0f1d86fe-b7f7-0d9a-51be-68de18da5c7b/mzl.llxafqoz.png" width="75" /></a><a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/08/learning-ally-audio-app-available-for.html">Learning Ally</a>, a provider of audio books for the blind and <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/02/whats-on-my-ipad-assistive-apps-i-use.html">dyslexic</a>, recently updated their <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/03/apple-releases-ios-71-with-numerous.html">iOS</a> app. The free apps allows Learning Ally members to listen to their audio books while on the go. The new update brings a valuable  new feature to the app. Now, the app allows users to listen to their audio books while using other apps at the same time, a feature commonly called background audio. The update provides a more consistent experience for users who have come to expect background audio support in all apps. With the update users can listen to an audio book while looking up information on the internet, reading a note page, or even responding to an occasional text message. Along with background audio support comes the ability to control playback using control center or a headphones with a remote. The update is available for free and is compatible with <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/04/apple-announces-wwdc-2014-will.html">iPhone</a>, iPad, and <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2012/09/brand-new-ipod-touch-announced.html">iPod Touch</a>. To take advantage of the app users must be members of Learning Ally. To learn more about Learning Ally <a href="http://learningally.org/">click here</a>.</div></div>

Diposting oleh Abdullah Syafii

Voice Dream Reader Updated to Version 3.0: Read PDFs in Original Layout and More

<div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/U4mvG0-glTA?rel=0" width="560"></iframe><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEineTzJSOspzXNd_KVYxg88d5Q9KKhagMt8t1dxAeKPqRsh5HA94kpPaAHFDMs8Lvhu5ZQh6d9YM5_zTG8QJK3kXMOWncrNKfa-R112u_vGVp3utMS9rg7S8PldqHZUPdmDA0ozYqq_9Uo/s1600/Rounded+Logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" height="75" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEineTzJSOspzXNd_KVYxg88d5Q9KKhagMt8t1dxAeKPqRsh5HA94kpPaAHFDMs8Lvhu5ZQh6d9YM5_zTG8QJK3kXMOWncrNKfa-R112u_vGVp3utMS9rg7S8PldqHZUPdmDA0ozYqq_9Uo/s1600/Rounded+Logo.png" title="Voice Dream Reader Icon" width="75" /></a>Voice Dream Reader is an app for iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch that supports people who prefer reading in different ways. Voice Dream can read documents from a number of sources with multiple high quality <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/11/claropdf-app-pdf-text-to-speech-and.html">text-to-speech</a> voices. Users can import <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/01/pdf-expert-5-well-designed-pdf.html">PDFs</a>, Word documents, text files, webpages, and even <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/11/bookshare-offers-free-membership-to.html">Bookshare</a> books into the app. Once the text is loaded into the app you can listen to it using text-to-speech, highlight the text, search for a specific words or phrases, and get definitions for unknown words. Among many other uses, Voice Dream Reader is a terrific Bookshare book reader for students. Voice Dream also works very well with <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2012/10/ios-6-voiceover-compatiblity-with-maps.html">VoiceOver</a>. Now, with newly released Voice Dream Reader version 3.0, new features have been added that makes the app even more useful.<br /><br />Up until yesterday evening, Voice Dream only supported text. All images and formatting associated with a file were stripped away. With version 3.0 images and formatting within PDF files are retained. Now you can read a PDF in its original layout. Voice Dream still highlights each word as it is read aloud. It is easy to switch between layout view and text view depending on your preferences. Version 3.0 also includes more customization options. Users now have more control over the colors of the highlighting and spacing of the text. An improved web browser has been added that makes adding text from the web quicker and easier. New Ivona text-to-speech voices are also available for purchase in version 3.0.<br /><br />With large PDF files page loading is slightly slow, but this problem only occur with very large files and does not effect text view performance.<br /><br />In future updates image support maybe added for Bookshare books or other document types. I also hope iCloud sync will be added in a future update. At school I read my books on my <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/11/made-for-iphone-hearing-aids-to-be.html">iPhone</a> and make new annotations, but when I get home and start reading on my iPad the annotations are stuck on the iPhone and I must search for the page that I left off on. iCloud sync would make this process much more seamless.<br /><br />Voice Dream Reader is a must have app for iOS users with print disabilities or anyone who could benefit from reading with text-to-speech. Voice Dream Reader's well developed features make loading, reading, and annotating text easy. Knowing that the app has a developer that is open to feedback and actively developing new features is an added benefit. Voice Dream Reader costs $9.99 on the App Store. <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/voice-dream-reader-text-to/id496177674?mt=8">Click here </a>to download the app. There is also a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/voice-dream-reader-lite/id563971853?mt=8">lite version of Voice Dream Reader</a> that allows you to try it before you buy.<br /><br />Click read more to view screenshots of Voice Dream Reader.<br /><a name="more"></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkndY1SgHgpdIVg2DfozjzDXxsl_63Hzq3Rgd-Lha4ZQhASuTJO1BgdwcJ-ftHCiwbmfoq4OjpalwEy1r2psGgJf-WkQ4potw_RqNAlN_zBZJyVMCNVwPa1yMHro98qQ5rT6CW3j4mrrU/s1600/photo+1+(9).PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkndY1SgHgpdIVg2DfozjzDXxsl_63Hzq3Rgd-Lha4ZQhASuTJO1BgdwcJ-ftHCiwbmfoq4OjpalwEy1r2psGgJf-WkQ4potw_RqNAlN_zBZJyVMCNVwPa1yMHro98qQ5rT6CW3j4mrrU/s1600/photo+1+(9).PNG" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmSvI1TD47z7MHAHKRaSinEUZ_6BkTbh1667KCZkYuw9fxsQ3hwLMZ1lsh5PbAmjnDcB4WLXxmUVqYLkv9NivlbkPe5SSI-oOCGX7J6hB1Rhn06XpYT9SeWDUS6JWMX40KfTUQhK2WKao/s1600/photo+2+(9).PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmSvI1TD47z7MHAHKRaSinEUZ_6BkTbh1667KCZkYuw9fxsQ3hwLMZ1lsh5PbAmjnDcB4WLXxmUVqYLkv9NivlbkPe5SSI-oOCGX7J6hB1Rhn06XpYT9SeWDUS6JWMX40KfTUQhK2WKao/s1600/photo+2+(9).PNG" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRmwCTI2l6BpRh0ScHLEH8DDB41RDYxuSWFAWeaV4L3b_hDUWPO6VzbTDfVFNnMRzP24bX2Azg6Lft1CDw-7SalbPGG3q_7nqpmlXSYQCJGGFPMuE0nw9fhgAHL28MEh7Fl0GF4YsCZ-U/s1600/photo+3+(7).PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRmwCTI2l6BpRh0ScHLEH8DDB41RDYxuSWFAWeaV4L3b_hDUWPO6VzbTDfVFNnMRzP24bX2Azg6Lft1CDw-7SalbPGG3q_7nqpmlXSYQCJGGFPMuE0nw9fhgAHL28MEh7Fl0GF4YsCZ-U/s1600/photo+3+(7).PNG" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCbt74cD-OA96AxhSaHdHP8ZWaNjRo3YVx5wSqimqVpu8aVEHL6_pexsHPFjvtyl3XjgNtSuXvosomk4k4Zk58GLzlajGwmjI1oaaKkUvehuaMQHq6KY4m68zErwVkLQVyWb_gdOYKLqM/s1600/photo+4+(4).PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCbt74cD-OA96AxhSaHdHP8ZWaNjRo3YVx5wSqimqVpu8aVEHL6_pexsHPFjvtyl3XjgNtSuXvosomk4k4Zk58GLzlajGwmjI1oaaKkUvehuaMQHq6KY4m68zErwVkLQVyWb_gdOYKLqM/s1600/photo+4+(4).PNG" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiezolcUSPzE2fW4cXiA0zZcIAj-FByfrHbJDu3I79XJs_2mmBwseszKGGAt3yb0U7OAMBHScEAcv_kNSYb8q05GJr1SmxszaEpkLJt5kxFH83VCyxQVbdEdDAl2sV2EFKqXSRR1FoIDX8/s1600/photo+5+(2).PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiezolcUSPzE2fW4cXiA0zZcIAj-FByfrHbJDu3I79XJs_2mmBwseszKGGAt3yb0U7OAMBHScEAcv_kNSYb8q05GJr1SmxszaEpkLJt5kxFH83VCyxQVbdEdDAl2sV2EFKqXSRR1FoIDX8/s1600/photo+5+(2).PNG" width="240" /></a></div>

Diposting oleh Abdullah Syafii

Launch Center Pro: Speed Up Common Actions on iOS Devices

<div style="text-align: center;"><object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,47,0" height="270" id="flashObj" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9?isVid=1&isUI=1" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="flashVars" value="videoId=2816136706001&linkBaseURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macworld.com%2Farticle%2F2061297%2Fmake-iphone-actions-easier-with-launch-center-pro.html&playerID=2577467285001&playerKey=AQ~~,AAACV85RErE~,AhFpv0ECqwFfthhmRu5jnOs8FUs2r9mP&domain=embed&dynamicStreaming=true" /><param name="base" value="http://admin.brightcove.com" /><param name="seamlesstabbing" value="false" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="swLiveConnect" value="true" /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><embed src="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9?isVid=1&isUI=1" bgcolor="#FFFFFF" flashVars="videoId=2816136706001&linkBaseURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.macworld.com%2Farticle%2F2061297%2Fmake-iphone-actions-easier-with-launch-center-pro.html&playerID=2577467285001&playerKey=AQ~~,AAACV85RErE~,AhFpv0ECqwFfthhmRu5jnOs8FUs2r9mP&domain=embed&dynamicStreaming=true" base="http://admin.brightcove.com" name="flashObj" width="480" height="270" seamlesstabbing="false" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowFullScreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" swLiveConnect="true" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/shockwave/download/index.cgi?P1_Prod_Version=ShockwaveFlash"></embed></object><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="http://press.contrast.co/lcp/icon.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="blue icon with rocket ship in the middle" border="0" height="75" src="http://press.contrast.co/lcp/icon.png" title="Launch Center Pro Icon" width="75" /></a><a href="http://contrast.co/launch-center-pro/">Launch Center Pro</a> is an app for <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/11/made-for-iphone-hearing-aids-to-be.html">iPhone</a>, iPad, and iPod Touch that allows users to launch apps and simple tasks directly from the app. Instead of launching Safari, navigating to the search site, and typing in your search, for instance, Launch Center Pro lets you directly search <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2014/01/google-smart-contacts-help-monitor.html">Google</a> or Wikipedia; Launch Center Pro also can be configured  by users to set up group email, instead of having to type in the email address of each recipient.<br /><br />Launch Center Pro uses a simple interface to make it easy to simplify some of your common actions and launch them quickly. I frequently text my sister "where are you?" Instead of launching the Messages app, finding my sister's contact, and then typing the message, I created a Launch Center Pro action that sends a text to my sister saying, "where are you?" Now, when I want to text my sister, I just touch the icon for this action and a text saying "where are you?" is on its way to my sister.<br />,<br />Creating actions is easy with the built in action composer which gives users the ability to pick pre-made actions for apps they already have installed on their device. The action composer also allows users to customize the icon of the action to make it easier to find.<br /><br />Launch Center Pro works with a number of apps, but support for more useful actions among third party apps is hit or miss. Some apps such as <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/09/prizmo-3-adds-new-features-and-ios-7.html">Prizmo</a> integrate very well with the app allowing you to easily launch actions, but other apps such as Nike+ Running can be opened, but not further interacted with. It would be nice to be able to start a new run in Nike+ via Launch Center, but actions like that requires the developer to build special support for Launch Center Pro into their apps. <a href="http://actions.contrast.co/">Click here</a> to view a list of the apps currently supporting Launch Center Pro.<br /><br />I see Launch Center Pro as a great app for first time <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/11/new-in-ios-7-and-android-kitkat.html">iOS</a> users, and other individuals who struggle performing sequential functions. Launch Center Pro can make it easier for first time iOS users learn to use their devices. Instead of learning how to search <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/11/new-in-ios-7-and-android-kitkat.html">Google</a>, Wikipedia, Yelp, and Google Maps individually a simple search menu could be made with quick links to search all those services. In terms of accessibility for the blind and visually impaired, Launch Center Pro works well with <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2012/10/ios-6-voiceover-compatiblity-with-maps.html">VoiceOver</a> and supports the <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/02/eye-free-typing-app-fleksy-now-free.html">Fleksy</a> keyboard which is accessible.<br /><br />Launch Center Pro costs $4.99 for the iPhone version and $7.99 for the iPad version. <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&ved=0CCkQFjAA&url=https%3A%2F%2Fitunes.apple.com%2Fus%2Fapp%2Flaunch-center-pro%2Fid532016360%3Fmt%3D8&ei=7OgAU6_KNMGk0AHKlYFw&usg=AFQjCNHXV8_bGzoh_-8Kz10Lhj5uVxOJOg&sig2=z08ygULU0wHpmKQKeSyoFA&bvm=bv.61535280,d.dmQ">Click here</a> to view the app for iPhone and <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=2&cad=rja&ved=0CDQQFjAB&url=https%3A%2F%2Fitunes.apple.com%2Fus%2Fapp%2Flaunch-center-pro-for-ipad%2Fid799664902%3Fmt%3D8&ei=7OgAU6_KNMGk0AHKlYFw&usg=AFQjCNHWCgDQxjM9vHqrnsjP_CYNRFYGYw&sig2=nlgsA0loDImcCmPJJ7ZIEg&bvm=bv.61535280,d.dmQ">click here</a> to view the app for iPad. Click read more below to view screen shots of Launch Center Pro in action.<br /><a name="more"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://press.contrast.co/lcp/scr_iphone.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="http://press.contrast.co/lcp/scr_iphone.png" title="screen shot of launch center" width="167" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://press.contrast.co/lcp/scr2_iphone.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://press.contrast.co/lcp/scr2_iphone.png" width="167" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQf5Mr-oSk2nv-roNo_weTfkTeLK129WxEK_ZPW5tvBxbuEED_brGFVoJ9gVkPG0JlZZutKydE261yfJyBbpc0QP98XjHNu468-klb5xCvL_QuPNc3v4ktd_C3TxgS-0jGqGPiHPU4KzI/s1600/photo+1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQf5Mr-oSk2nv-roNo_weTfkTeLK129WxEK_ZPW5tvBxbuEED_brGFVoJ9gVkPG0JlZZutKydE261yfJyBbpc0QP98XjHNu468-klb5xCvL_QuPNc3v4ktd_C3TxgS-0jGqGPiHPU4KzI/s1600/photo+1.PNG" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHZ3CyNQr1angog2Cwqo4DJ2LsgbjXFLkESkUb5r19bm1rXnRXKP2DD-w64JT5wtNDTQI9JTposfY6MYFI98nQlZj9A-43jvYKth6d5eScloOsCWy5v52TS6PPhxzseVcq_t6wyc-mcJw/s1600/photo+2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHZ3CyNQr1angog2Cwqo4DJ2LsgbjXFLkESkUb5r19bm1rXnRXKP2DD-w64JT5wtNDTQI9JTposfY6MYFI98nQlZj9A-43jvYKth6d5eScloOsCWy5v52TS6PPhxzseVcq_t6wyc-mcJw/s1600/photo+2.PNG" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA8mO4U7wRFBIqf_wGCjKMr2hSAKtVRQ5CC9jxet2aZRZ0vAcAbU6X13AWT1OmT7zoTBUxytXvYrdNnGfaU6-ZoCiDru7aenvOOxpma9zI81Q07wDjIts8Uok6YsdBKZDp4J0uWDCH6P8/s1600/photo+3.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA8mO4U7wRFBIqf_wGCjKMr2hSAKtVRQ5CC9jxet2aZRZ0vAcAbU6X13AWT1OmT7zoTBUxytXvYrdNnGfaU6-ZoCiDru7aenvOOxpma9zI81Q07wDjIts8Uok6YsdBKZDp4J0uWDCH6P8/s1600/photo+3.PNG" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi7bLqlsoronX3kVtDQykkeFlMI1M-F95JEZM0F40L69GSyG1yt3GogHiKS-Eo4RLu1UAJWO50uM71BrB_Nxcs_lDAcL92IsUl_fIBJhnMOG4c10gWEFazxL5Qbc8SjU3TuBkZIv1l2vI/s1600/photo+4.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi7bLqlsoronX3kVtDQykkeFlMI1M-F95JEZM0F40L69GSyG1yt3GogHiKS-Eo4RLu1UAJWO50uM71BrB_Nxcs_lDAcL92IsUl_fIBJhnMOG4c10gWEFazxL5Qbc8SjU3TuBkZIv1l2vI/s1600/photo+4.PNG" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6JKMdCWL2A6Xx5SMWbucoI20b67tG06OYIEUGL31zhnblZcZNfv2vpjPiiyA09itVOpUr5tVo7dB4OLyG24K4ABPdQkgqGR4mw5m4-wCt79R97LEzCnpaTS6xnYQFDsantY4tycQi7P8/s1600/photo+5.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6JKMdCWL2A6Xx5SMWbucoI20b67tG06OYIEUGL31zhnblZcZNfv2vpjPiiyA09itVOpUr5tVo7dB4OLyG24K4ABPdQkgqGR4mw5m4-wCt79R97LEzCnpaTS6xnYQFDsantY4tycQi7P8/s1600/photo+5.PNG" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;">App was provided complimentary to reviewer for review </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div>

Diposting oleh Abdullah Syafii

PDF Expert 5: Well Designed PDF Management App with Text-to-Speech

<div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/hhUjUEOHR_U?rel=0" width="560"></iframe><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://thesweetsetup.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/pdf-expert-ipad-icon-256.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="75" src="http://thesweetsetup.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/pdf-expert-ipad-icon-256.png" title="PDF Expert 5 Icon" width="75" /></a>PDF Expert 5 is a well designed <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&ved=0CC4QFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbdmtech.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F11%2Fclaropdf-app-pdf-text-to-speech-and.html&ei=1SvDUu-2H7OgsATSpoHQDQ&usg=AFQjCNHW8KJ6dTOvV_9lysjiDJ8l7YwEGg&sig2=QADsIR73ZpzRi9CgRY1oVQ&bvm=bv.58187178,d.cWc">PDF</a> management app for the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&ved=0CCwQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbdmtech.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F08%2Finspiration-maps-for-ipad-mind-mapping.html&ei=8SvDUrT-PMzKsQSU6YDYDQ&usg=AFQjCNEtGo-Cx-xQDAmSaPVmzzOW3_anPw&sig2=_RIkG1GcZSPaT-MG163-pw&bvm=bv.58187178,d.cWc">iPad</a>. The app includes many useful features that allow you to read, edit, and annotate PDF documents easily. Unlike some other feature -rich apps, PDF Expert 5 does not feel cultured. The elegant design makes the app easy to use. PDF Expert is an assistive app because of its <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&ved=0CCwQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbdmtech.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F10%2Fhave-you-ever-wondered-how-text-to.html&ei=SizDUrPCI43lsASquoCYDQ&usg=AFQjCNGSgCAsv7qFtTJQLv7hwyWUVm1fFg&sig2=FQZnaryAA4yPQYMyKfC_Xw&bvm=bv.58187178,d.cWc">text-to-speech</a> integration with the added benefit of extra features.<br /><br />One caveat, while the app is good for non-disabled and dyslexic users, I would not recommend the app for <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&ved=0CD8QFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbdmtech.blogspot.com%2F2012%2F10%2Fios-6-voiceover-compatiblity-with-maps.html&ei=CCzDUoWZCOjLsQSE84LADA&usg=AFQjCNEJy3pGsCo9ogZPfPGd_al3jPC07A&sig2=2DnbkHBHEOLIJBo14aqhAA&bvm=bv.58187178,d.cWc">VoiceOver</a> users because of some <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&ved=0CD8QFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbdmtech.blogspot.com%2F2012%2F10%2Fios-6-voiceover-compatiblity-with-maps.html&ei=CCzDUoWZCOjLsQSE84LADA&usg=AFQjCNEJy3pGsCo9ogZPfPGd_al3jPC07A&sig2=2DnbkHBHEOLIJBo14aqhAA&bvm=bv.58187178,d.cWc">VoiceOver</a> problems I have found. <a href="http://readdle.com/">Readdle</a>, the maker of the app, should work on fixing these VoiceOver problems so blind and visually impaired can also benefit from the app. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">PDF files can be imported from numerous cloud storage services including Google Drive, Drop Box and SkyDrive or using the "open-in" feature of many other <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&ved=0CCwQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbdmtech.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F10%2Fnew-in-ios-7-system-wide-large-type.html&ei=NizDUrLhNZHFsASG8YDIDA&usg=AFQjCNEYLdvoU1YWeueHQsssEJrSHJsJoQ&sig2=WTo9r3W6h-q5wKDmmxc_xQ&bvm=bv.58187178,d.cWc">iOS apps</a>. You can also view other file types, but the built in text-to-speech reader is only available for PDF documents. Files can be organized into folders or dragged and dropped into different sections.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">PDF Expert's <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&ved=0CCwQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbdmtech.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F10%2Fhave-you-ever-wondered-how-text-to.html&ei=SizDUrPCI43lsASquoCYDQ&usg=AFQjCNGSgCAsv7qFtTJQLv7hwyWUVm1fFg&sig2=FQZnaryAA4yPQYMyKfC_Xw&bvm=bv.58187178,d.cWc">text-to-speech</a> function works with any PDF with digital text. It does not work with PDF documents that have text within images. To read a compatible PDF, turn on text-to-speech in the reading mode menu and then press play. You can start reading at the middle or end of a page by highlighting a word and pressing "read from here." Text is read with the default iOS voice that many may recognize as the voice of Siri. Unfortunately, you cannot purchase additional higher quality voices. The app also requires you to re-enable <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&ved=0CCwQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbdmtech.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F10%2Fhave-you-ever-wondered-how-text-to.html&ei=SizDUrPCI43lsASquoCYDQ&usg=AFQjCNGSgCAsv7qFtTJQLv7hwyWUVm1fFg&sig2=FQZnaryAA4yPQYMyKfC_Xw&bvm=bv.58187178,d.cWc">text-to-speech</a> every time you switch PDF documents. This is inconvenient if you switch are between PDF documents quickly.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Click read more below to continue reading about PDF Expert.</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><a name="more"></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Viewing a PDF document is also a breeze. PDF Expert includes a quick scrolling mode and thumb nail view to allow you to easily navigate large PDFs. You can also change the background to sepia or night for easier viewing.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn1.appleinsider.com/1203-appupdates-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="192" src="http://cdn1.appleinsider.com/1203-appupdates-1.jpg" title="screenshots of PDF Expert 5" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://readdle.com/design/blank.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://readdle.com/design/blank.gif" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Aside from the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&ved=0CCwQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbdmtech.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F10%2Fhave-you-ever-wondered-how-text-to.html&ei=SizDUrPCI43lsASquoCYDQ&usg=AFQjCNGSgCAsv7qFtTJQLv7hwyWUVm1fFg&sig2=FQZnaryAA4yPQYMyKfC_Xw&bvm=bv.58187178,d.cWc">text-to-speech</a> features PDF Expert includes a number of editing and annotation features. Annotation options include highlighting, underlining, shapes, strike-through, stamps, signatures, and text. These annotation options are intuitive to use and you can easily can the color of highlights and other annotations. If you would like to add text to a PDF document you do not need to worry about overlapping any original text because the app automatically wraps your text so it will not overlap. Unfortunately, the app will not read your text annotations back to you using the built in reader, but you can always use the built in <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&ved=0CCwQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbdmtech.blogspot.com%2F2012%2F10%2Fhow-to-use-ios-6-speak-selection-with.html&ei=6rfJUvjaO-3gsASYqoK4DQ&usg=AFQjCNE9ReTFISWFDS6P8UzZHmWGp8zHhw&sig2=X3cNUhJNRScKf3Us1haq3Q&bvm=bv.58187178,d.cWc">Speak Selection</a> feature.  </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">PDF Expert also includes a review mode which allows you to edit and markup existing PDF documents. To learn more about this feature see the below video.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">With PDF Expert's easy to use annotation and editing features and its built in text-to-speech reader PDF Reader is an ideal app for any iPad user who wants increase productivity. PDF Expert 5 is compatible with iPads running iOS 6 or higher and is <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/pdf-expert-5-fill-forms-annotate/id743974925?mt=8">available for $9.99 in the App Store</a>.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" mozallowfullscreen="" src="//player.vimeo.com/video/80870248" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a1.mzstatic.com/us/r30/Purple6/v4/8a/ba/0e/8aba0e33-4a8c-71a5-eb75-2eb1f3fceb49/screen480x480.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://a1.mzstatic.com/us/r30/Purple6/v4/8a/ba/0e/8aba0e33-4a8c-71a5-eb75-2eb1f3fceb49/screen480x480.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a1.mzstatic.com/us/r30/Purple4/v4/2e/0d/56/2e0d5690-b92c-ca92-8c5c-e24feacf330c/screen480x480.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://a1.mzstatic.com/us/r30/Purple4/v4/2e/0d/56/2e0d5690-b92c-ca92-8c5c-e24feacf330c/screen480x480.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a3.mzstatic.com/us/r30/Purple4/v4/78/12/8c/78128ca3-51a8-badf-b56c-1fbe39037cfe/screen480x480.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://a3.mzstatic.com/us/r30/Purple4/v4/78/12/8c/78128ca3-51a8-badf-b56c-1fbe39037cfe/screen480x480.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a3.mzstatic.com/us/r30/Purple4/v4/78/12/8c/78128ca3-51a8-badf-b56c-1fbe39037cfe/screen480x480.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://a3.mzstatic.com/us/r30/Purple4/v4/78/12/8c/78128ca3-51a8-badf-b56c-1fbe39037cfe/screen480x480.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a1.mzstatic.com/us/r30/Purple4/v4/a4/a2/c9/a4a2c905-0f09-5d76-a902-9a4bcd72cab5/screen480x480.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://a1.mzstatic.com/us/r30/Purple4/v4/a4/a2/c9/a4a2c905-0f09-5d76-a902-9a4bcd72cab5/screen480x480.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div></div></div>

Diposting oleh Abdullah Syafii

New in iOS 7: Detailed Look at Switch Control

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgurp2qIGh03IzD2F1V-f6SpbLU67jbQ3Zsk3APTUuCOKS9FeeTuGiQaQqNEJi32AyaoF14N4Bk9fjKALJRY4VnuJsxDjXrLxWCmUYE_Rq9nt-Z01MBQIfYed2PezKZyWYS61XyuspCnwI/s1600/photo+2+(4).PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgurp2qIGh03IzD2F1V-f6SpbLU67jbQ3Zsk3APTUuCOKS9FeeTuGiQaQqNEJi32AyaoF14N4Bk9fjKALJRY4VnuJsxDjXrLxWCmUYE_Rq9nt-Z01MBQIfYed2PezKZyWYS61XyuspCnwI/s320/photo+2+(4).PNG" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU7UMWT2uHJqtEOi2B-vpEAEq_edC2XMZOT2ED3gVbHann9fBmi_AWZPbUscCCSADg0abA2ki3pxmG9wELT5DD-2vUsW_R-lawvHVusqfEbJtiy5ncT7UkBIe-gHuJY2AC3RmDZoirbSk/s1600/photo+1+(4).PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU7UMWT2uHJqtEOi2B-vpEAEq_edC2XMZOT2ED3gVbHann9fBmi_AWZPbUscCCSADg0abA2ki3pxmG9wELT5DD-2vUsW_R-lawvHVusqfEbJtiy5ncT7UkBIe-gHuJY2AC3RmDZoirbSk/s320/photo+1+(4).PNG" title="second screen shot of iOS 7 running switch control on home screen" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Apple’s newly released <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/06/ios-7-accessibility-overview-what-we.html">iOS 7</a> includes many new features and improvements. iOS 7 runs on the <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/09/the-touch-id-fingerprint-sensor-on-new.html">iPhone</a>, iPad, and iPod Touch. Users will notice changes as soon as they boot up their iOS 7 device for the first time. But this release allows a group of users to use iOS for the first time. Just as <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/05/kindle-app-for-ios-updated-with.html">VoiceOver</a> allowed the blind and visually impaired to access the iPhone, Switch Control now allows switch users to navigate and use their iOS device. Switch users are users who are only able to activate a few large buttons and who don’t have the ability to interact with the complexities of a touch screen. For example, a quadriplegic may be able to activate switches mounted on their wheelchair with their head. Switches come in all different sizes and configurations but they give  users who are unable to interact with the touch screen the ability to control their devices. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Switch Control for <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/06/ios-7-accessibility-overview-what-we.html">iOS</a> is similar to other switch interfaces, a cursor scans around the screen and when a switch is activated the user is given options to interact with that object or button. For example, a cursor will scroll through all the app icons on your home screen and when the switch is activated it will open the selected app.<o:p></o:p></span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Click read more to learn below to learn more about Switch Control on iOS 7.</span><br /><a name="more"></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Switches</span></b><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.ablenetinc.com/Portals/0/images/products/JellyBean-twistoptions-200.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.ablenetinc.com/Portals/0/images/products/JellyBean-twistoptions-200.png" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Example of a switch</td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Switch Control can be used with external switches connected to the device via Bluetooth. Switch control can also use the front facing FaceTime camera to recognize a user’s head movements. A third option allows the entire touch display of your iOS device to be used as a switch. Once you have a switch you can choose its action. A switch can control scanning by controlling the cursor or can be used to control system functions such as activating Siri, notification center, or the app switcher.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Settings<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Switch Control is extremely customizable to fit the needs of many different users. The settings can be accessed by going to Settings > General > Accessibility > Switch Control. The speed at which the cursor moves can be change for faster navigation or easier use. The cursor can also be set to pause on the first item. There are also switch stabilization settings to increase or decrease hold duration and also to ignore repeat. Switch Control can also speech items to the user as the cursor highlights items. The cursor size and color is also customizable. Similar to Assistive Touch Switch Control allows saved gestures to be saved and activated later.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Using Switch Control<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A cursor highlights the elements or groups of elements on the screen. Activating the switch selects the group and then pressing the switch again activates an element. This process allows users to select apps from the home screen, keys on the keyboard, and other buttons. A secondary menu can also be activated with options specific to that element. The menu includes options to tap the element, scroll, activate saved and pre-set gestures, activate device functions such as volume, and shortcuts to change Switch Control settings. On elements such as volume sliders you are also given the option to decrement and increment. The gesture menu gives you the option to flick, pan, pinch, tap and hold, drag, drag and hold, double tap, freehand, and access saved gestures. Amazingly, these gestures can be precisely controlled through one switch by following on screen options. For scrollable list you can activate the “scroll” submenu.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Switch Control Compatibility with Third Party Apps<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As with most accessibility features, support for Switch Control with third party apps unpredictable. Luckily, VoiceOver has laid the ground work for Switch Control. As I understand, Switch Control and VoiceOver use the same accessibility elements. This an app that works with VoiceOver will work with Switch Control and vice versa. This makes app developer’s jobs much easier.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Wrap-Up<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Switch Control is one of many great new accessibility features in iOS 7. Switch Control will allow a whole new group of people (switch users) access to the iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch. Like all of Apple’s accessibility features Switch Control is available on all iOS 7 devices and works out-of-the-box.</span><o:p></o:p></div>

Diposting oleh Abdullah Syafii

Co:Writer for iOS Provides Powerful and Adaptable Word Prediction

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a5.mzstatic.com/us/r30/Purple6/v4/18/fb/af/18fbaffb-f51d-49f6-5d00-ba4b94b78260/screen480x480.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://a5.mzstatic.com/us/r30/Purple6/v4/18/fb/af/18fbaffb-f51d-49f6-5d00-ba4b94b78260/screen480x480.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIN3JNnqpS_-1M4sdu34wdLeqQytvNAl1LpmyLT4htjSULyS_68yhzrVH2SHR9-abuKCSx9DqniUo353RpWiXyIPiLuWbtMH_0u5RBseePH6xxjMBnK-yFk8hwdoJ5wXu4sIk8oZlqjbA/s1600/Image-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="75" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIN3JNnqpS_-1M4sdu34wdLeqQytvNAl1LpmyLT4htjSULyS_68yhzrVH2SHR9-abuKCSx9DqniUo353RpWiXyIPiLuWbtMH_0u5RBseePH6xxjMBnK-yFk8hwdoJ5wXu4sIk8oZlqjbA/s200/Image-1.png" width="75" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.donjohnston.com/">Don Johnston’s</a> powerful word prediction software, <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/co-writer/id674099732?mt=8">Co:Writer</a>, has made its way to <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2013/06/ios-7-accessibility-overview-what-we.html">iOS</a>. The newly released Co:Writer app works with the <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2012/09/best-apps-for-your-new-iphone-5.html">iPhone</a>, iPad, and <a href="http://bdmtech.blogspot.com/2012/09/brand-new-ipod-touch-announced.html">iPod Touch</a>. It is important to note that the Co:Writer app has multiple different variations depending on your dialect. For example, there is a separate app for British and United States English.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">To start using the powerful word prediction built into the app you can simply start typing. A bar appears on top of the keyboard with five suggested words based on what you are typing. On the iPhone and iPod Touch some longer words are cut off in the predication bar because of the smaller screen. Tapping on a word inserts it into the document. As each word is added it is spoken aloud with text-to-speech. The word prediction is helpful for struggling writers and spellers. The word prediction can help a writer who </span>doesn't<span style="font-family: inherit;"> know the spelling of a word by spelling the word if you can type the first few letters. Once you have completed your sentence it is spoken back to you. Co:Writer also includes a speak button with reads the entire document with <a href="http://www.blogger.com/"><span id="goog_1004433608"></span>text-to-speech<span id="goog_1004433609"></span></a> while highlighting the spoken word.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Co:Writer also has one more amazing feature. You can tell the app what you are going to be writing about to receive even better word prediction results. The app includes many topics such as William Shakespeare, Albert Einstein, and Global Warming. If you enable the Einstein topic dictionary it will give you word suggestions based on words related to Einstein. With the Einstein dictionary on, typing it the letter “r” leads to the suggestion of “relativity.” These customizable predictions help to make writing a smother process.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">When you are ready to share your writing you have numerous options. You can share it via messages, email, Dropbox, Google Drive, Twitter, or Facebook. In addition you can copy your work to another app.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Co:Writer sells for $17.99 in the <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/co-writer/id674099732?mt=8">App Store</a>. Click read more below to view screenshots of Co:Writer in action.</span></span><br /><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span><br /><a name="more"></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a4.mzstatic.com/us/r30/Purple4/v4/89/98/37/899837ca-b1e9-043f-08ab-e24b74cb7459/screen480x480.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://a4.mzstatic.com/us/r30/Purple4/v4/89/98/37/899837ca-b1e9-043f-08ab-e24b74cb7459/screen480x480.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a2.mzstatic.com/us/r30/Purple6/v4/f2/dd/9e/f2dd9e81-07af-7bfc-752c-8d2436e0e64b/screen480x480.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://a2.mzstatic.com/us/r30/Purple6/v4/f2/dd/9e/f2dd9e81-07af-7bfc-752c-8d2436e0e64b/screen480x480.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a4.mzstatic.com/us/r30/Purple4/v4/29/86/2f/29862fad-58bc-5842-621d-98e4a0fdbc11/screen480x480.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://a4.mzstatic.com/us/r30/Purple4/v4/29/86/2f/29862fad-58bc-5842-621d-98e4a0fdbc11/screen480x480.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a3.mzstatic.com/us/r30/Purple6/v4/cc/98/52/cc985222-be15-49c5-8280-9615b77b747a/screen480x480.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://a3.mzstatic.com/us/r30/Purple6/v4/cc/98/52/cc985222-be15-49c5-8280-9615b77b747a/screen480x480.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;">App was provided complimentary to reviewer</div>

Diposting oleh Abdullah Syafii