Just back from the Humanware event. the launch was a smoothly and
professionally run event with Humanware as usual showing that it cares about
its customers. I went to it not exactly a sceptic but certain requiring
persuasion. I cam away from it not converted but definitely impressed. this is
exactly what it claims to be an android tablet with Braille fully integrated.
Any concerns about Android accessibility or usability are dealt with by the
fact that the tablet is operated using Humanware’s proprietary Keysoft suite of
apps as an overlay. In other words, if you know the commands and conventions of
using keysoft you can run the Braillenote Touch as a tablet. In order to
operate in a more demanding environment Keysoft has had several elements
upgraded. So you might say that what it is is a Tablet disguised as a Humanware
note taker. The demo strongly indicated that everything you would want to do
on the tablet from writing and sending an email to searching for and watching a
YouTube videos can be effectively done using the Keysoft apps. One thing that’s
different from previous Humanware products is that if you create a document in
Keyword, the word processor app, it is presented in Microsoft docx format. But
the real kicker is the method for inputting Braille. If you briefly rest your
fingers on the touch screen behind the Braille display it gives a short
vibration. This means it has recognised your fingers and the positions they are
in. You can then begin inputting Braille directly on to the screen which
appears on the Braille line. What I found interesting was that even things like
dot 8 for enter and 7 for backspace performed these actual functions. The
device can also be supplied with a smart case which also contains a full
Humanware Braille keyboard.
I have to say, being a hopeless gadget boy, when I saw and used it I
immediately wanted one. Trouble is that I can do all of these things accessibly
on my iPad and iPhone optionally using my Braille device via bluetooth. The
difference of course is that the Keysoft first letter selection method of
navigation means that if you land on a web page and have no idea what it looks
like or where anything is, you can immediately find the search button by
pressing the Braille . letter s.
It comes in two versions, 18 and 40 cell displays. the former is 2995 and the
latter 3995 which gives some indication of how much the price is loaded by the
cost of the Braille cells and tech. If I was starting all over and didn't have
any other devices I would give it serious consideration. But its real
potential lies with learners inparticular who are coming new to Braille but who
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