Latest Assistive Tech Revolution

The world of assistive technology is rapidly evolving, transforming the lives of people with disabilities. Now in its 40th year, the CSUN Assistive Tech Conference has been the go-to event for discovering how technology can improve accessibility for people with disabilities.

Recently, I visited the expo show floor to check out the products and services making life easier and more accessible.

Introduction to Assistive Tech

"People come to learn something and they do, they learn a lot – but what they really take away are these connections that they otherwise would not have been able to make," said Julia Santiago of the CSUN Center on Disabilities.

Exhibitors and Their Innovations

This year, over 125 exhibitors showed off products and services for people with disabilities. The impact is real. "With access to support and technology, we’re able to lead independent lives, we’re able to confidently navigate the world, and also we can use computers, we can use smartphones, and we deserve to be included," said Joey Hernandez with the Braille Institute.

Braille and Tactile Graphic Printers

ViewPlus Technologies was showcasing their braille and tactile graphic printers. "So many blind people only have access to braille and sometimes words aren’t enough," said Dan Gardner of ViewPlus Technologies.

Devices for the Blind

Orbit Research was showing off their upcoming Orbit Player, a device developed by the blind for the blind. It lets users listen to audiobooks, music, and podcasts with tactile controls. "It’s really important to make sure that people from the community itself will drive development of these products," said Adi Kushner of Orbit Research. This ships in July and is expected to cost 300 dollars.

Accessible Apps and Smart Ovens

AccessiByte is creating fun, accessible apps, like a typing tutor. "I think everybody’s living a better life because of tech. It just opens up doorways. It’s like our window to the world," said Joe Jorgenson of AccessiByte. Brava told me they redesigned their smart oven app to work with screen readers after feedback from the blind community.

High-Tech Walking Canes

There were also several high-tech walking canes being demoed, including the WeWalk, with obstacle detection, turn-by-turn navigation, and even ChatGPT built in. "It’s a smart companion for visually impaired people because we believe the better you get around, the better you engage in life," said Kursat Ceylan of WeWalk. Glidance was showing off their autonomous walking device that uses AI and depth cameras to safely guide users. "The wheels steer the way so the person doesn’t have to engage with all the obstacles on the way they just walk," said Amos Miller of Glidance.

Conclusion

It’s great to see companies – big and small – making accessibility such a priority and truly changing lives for the better in the process. The advancements in assistive technology are not only improving the quality of life for people with disabilities but also promoting independence and inclusion.

FAQs

• Q: What is the CSUN Assistive Tech Conference?
  A: The CSUN Assistive Tech Conference is an annual event that showcases the latest assistive technology products and services to improve accessibility for people with disabilities.
• Q: What types of products were exhibited at the conference?
  A: The conference featured a wide range of products, including braille and tactile graphic printers, devices for the blind, accessible apps, smart ovens, and high-tech walking canes.
• Q: How is assistive technology changing lives?
  A: Assistive technology is transforming the lives of people with disabilities by providing them with independence, confidence, and the ability to navigate the world more easily.
• Q: What is the cost of the Orbit Player?
  A: The Orbit Player is expected to cost $300 and will be available in July.
• Q: What is the purpose of the WeWalk smart cane?
  A: The WeWalk smart cane is designed to be a smart companion for visually impaired people, providing obstacle detection, turn-by-turn navigation, and ChatGPT integration to enhance their mobility and engagement in life.