How Aira and Gmail Make Digital and Physical Spaces Accessible

Thanks to Turtleback Low Vision for sponsoring this episode of Double Tap. As a thank you to the Double Tap community, Turtleback is offering 12% off your entire order with promo code DT12. Visit https://www.turtlebacklv.com to shop the full lineup!Celebrate Halloween with Steven Scott and Shaun Preece as they share spine-chilling tech horror stories from listeners, featuring haunted gadgets, ghostly screen readers, and the spooky side of accessibility technology. This Halloween special of Double Tap dives into the eerie world of tech gone wrong. Steven and Shaun invite listeners to share their scariest technology mishaps, from haunted electric toothbrushes and cursed talking clocks to mysteriously self-activating braille devices. Gregory recounts the tragic “murder” of his Seleste smart glasses, Kevin’s toothbrush haunts the night, and Charles relives the terror of a childhood rooster alarm. Amid the humour and frights, the hosts also explore the nostalgia of old assistive tech, the perils of firmware updates, and the warm moments of truly excellent accessibility support. Relevant LinksTurtleback Cases: https://turtlebacklv.com Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website---Follow on:YouTube: https://www.doubletaponair.com/youtubeX (formerly Twitter): https://www.doubletaponair.com/xInstagram: https://www.doubletaponair.com/instagramTikTok: https://www.doubletaponair.com/tiktokThreads: https://www.doubletaponair.com/threadsFacebook: https://www.doubletaponair.com/facebookLinkedIn: https://www.doubletaponair.com/linkedin Subscribe to the Podcast:Apple: https://www.doubletaponair.com/appleSpotify: https://www.doubletaponair.com/spotifyRSS: https://www.doubletaponair.com/podcastiHeadRadio: https://www.doubletaponair.com/iheart About Double TapHosted by the insightful duo, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, Double Tap is a treasure trove of information for anyone who's blind or partially sighted and has a passion for tech. Steven and Shaun not only demystify tech, but they also regularly feature interviews and welcome guests from the community, fostering an interactive and engaging environment. Tune in every day of the week, and you'll discover how technology can seamlessly integrate into your life, enhancing daily tasks and experiences, even if your sight is limited. "Double Tap" is a registered trademark of Double Tap Productions Inc. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode is supported by Pneuma Solutions. Creators of accessible tools like Remote Incident Manager and Scribe. Get $20 off with code dt20 at https://pneumasolutions.com/ and enter to win a free subscription at doubletaponair.com/subscribe!Should blind users trust AI for companionship, and how does tech shape our human connections? Steven Scott and Shaun Preece tackle your emails on AI sexting, social media, and the quirks of iOS 26 — from custom ringtones to Mail app frustrations.In this lively Double Tap episode, Steven and Shaun dive into listener feedback that sparks a deep conversation about AI intimacy, technology’s role in human connection, and the social impacts of digital companionship. Hetty shares her concerns about AI sexting and the risks of forming emotional attachments to machines. The hosts debate generational attitudes toward relationships and whether AI can provide meaningful companionship without replacing real human interaction. They explore social media’s polarising effects, accountability for online behaviour, and the illusion of “perfect lives” on Instagram. Tech talk includes iOS 26’s new ringtone feature, Mail app attachment woes, smart glasses updates, and accessible live TV solutions — with listeners sharing creative hacks for over-the-air streaming and even a hunt for tactile jigsaw puzzles. Practical advice is given for blind academics choosing between Windows on ARM and Mac, with insights into JAWS compatibility and productivity for large Word documents. Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website---Follow on:YouTube: https://www.doubletaponair.com/youtubeX (formerly Twitter): https://www.doubletaponair.com/xInstagram: https://www.doubletaponair.com/instagramTikTok: https://www.doubletaponair.com/tiktokThreads: https://www.doubletaponair.com/threadsFacebook: https://www.doubletaponair.com/facebookLinkedIn: https://www.doubletaponair.com/linkedin Subscribe to the Podcast:Apple: https://www.doubletaponair.com/appleSpotify: https://www.doubletaponair.com/spotifyRSS: https://www.doubletaponair.com/podcastiHeadRadio: https://www.doubletaponair.com/iheart About Double TapHosted by the insightful duo, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, Double Tap is a treasure trove of information for anyone who's blind or partially sighted and has a passion for tech. Steven and Shaun not only demystify tech, but they also regularly feature interviews and welcome guests from the community, fostering an interactive and engaging environment. Tune in every day of the week, and you'll discover how technology can seamlessly integrate into your life, enhancing daily tasks and experiences, even if your sight is limited. "Double Tap" is a registered trademark of Double Tap Productions Inc. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In today's special episode of Double Tap, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece sit down for an hour-long chat with Chris McCausland, one of the UK's most celebrated blind comedians, and recent Strictly Come Dancing winner. Chris shares his incredible journey—from his early struggles with retinitis pigmentosa (RP) to becoming a national treasure, and how his career in comedy has evolved.Chris opens up about:Winning Strictly Come Dancing – Overcoming fears and representing the blind communityNavigating fame – The impact of public perception and being seen as ‘normal’The role of humor in disability – Breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypesTech and accessibility – How the iPhone changed his life and why AI is the biggest game-changerHis future projects – From live tours to book writing and a potential TV game showWith his signature wit, honesty, and humor, Chris delivers an unfiltered look at life as a blind comedian, the power of representation, and why he still gets anxious buying a loaf of bread despite performing in front of thousands. Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website---Follow on:YouTube: https://www.doubletaponair.com/youtubeX (formerly Twitter): https://www.doubletaponair.com/xInstagram: https://www.doubletaponair.com/instagramTikTok: https://www.doubletaponair.com/tiktokThreads: https://www.doubletaponair.com/threadsFacebook: https://www.doubletaponair.com/facebookLinkedIn: https://www.doubletaponair.com/linkedin Subscribe to the Podcast:Apple: https://www.doubletaponair.com/appleSpotify: https://www.doubletaponair.com/spotifyRSS: https://www.doubletaponair.com/podcastiHeadRadio: https://www.doubletaponair.com/iheart About Double TapHosted by the insightful duo, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, Double Tap is a treasure trove of information for anyone who's blind or partially sighted and has a passion for tech. Steven and Shaun not only demystify tech, but they also regularly feature interviews and welcome guests from the community, fostering an interactive and engaging environment. Tune in every day of the week, and you'll discover how technology can seamlessly integrate into your life, enhancing daily tasks and experiences, even if your sight is limited. "Double Tap" is a registered trademark of Double Tap Productions Inc. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Discover how blind and visually impaired users can shop independently at Walmart using Aira visual interpreting and Gmail web accessibility tools. Learn practical keyboard shortcuts, screen reader tips, and how Aira’s partnership with Walmart enables seamless in-store and online navigation.Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive into their hands-on experiences with Gmail on the web, exploring how screen reader users can efficiently manage emails using keyboard shortcuts, virtual cursors, and accessible layouts. They share insights from APH and JAWS webinars, discuss NVDA add-ons like Pleasant Progress Bar, and highlight powerful tools such as QuickLook on Windows for previewing audio files.The episode then shifts focus to Aira’s partnership with Walmart, featuring Janine Stanley and Michael Babcock. Michael takes listeners along on a real-time audio journey navigating a Walmart store, locating items, and even trying self-checkout—demonstrating how Aira’s trained visual interpreters empower independence. The discussion also covers privacy, trust, and the role of access partners in making everyday tasks accessible.Relevant LinksAira: https://aira.ioAira Access Partners: https://aira.io/r-partnersRamblio: https://ramblio.comNVDA Screen Reader: https://www.nvaccess.org Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website---Follow on:YouTube: https://www.doubletaponair.com/youtubeX (formerly Twitter): https://www.doubletaponair.com/xInstagram: https://www.doubletaponair.com/instagramTikTok: https://www.doubletaponair.com/tiktokThreads: https://www.doubletaponair.com/threadsFacebook: https://www.doubletaponair.com/facebookLinkedIn: https://www.doubletaponair.com/linkedin Subscribe to the Podcast:Apple: https://www.doubletaponair.com/appleSpotify: https://www.doubletaponair.com/spotifyRSS: https://www.doubletaponair.com/podcastiHeadRadio: https://www.doubletaponair.com/iheart About Double TapHosted by the insightful duo, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, Double Tap is a treasure trove of information for anyone who's blind or partially sighted and has a passion for tech. Steven and Shaun not only demystify tech, but they also regularly feature interviews and welcome guests from the community, fostering an interactive and engaging environment. Tune in every day of the week, and you'll discover how technology can seamlessly integrate into your life, enhancing daily tasks and experiences, even if your sight is limited. "Double Tap" is a registered trademark of Double Tap Productions Inc. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Discover the latest in accessible tech for blind users, including InnoSearch’s new accessible storefronts and mobile app, BlindShell and Orbit Reader updates, and a call for your funniest tech horror stories ahead of Halloween.This episode of Double Tap with Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dives into a packed week of accessible technology news. InnoSearch unveils accessible online stores that empower blind entrepreneurs to sell products easily, as well as a brand-new app for iOS and Android. Listeners are invited to share their scariest tech horror stories for the upcoming Halloween special, with a feature called the “Accessibility Crypt,” celebrating old “dead” tech that still haunts our memories.The hosts also cover a critical BlindShell Classic 1 update, a new Orbit Reader firmware release, and a strange Samsung TalkBack bug. They discuss Facebook Messenger’s retreat from desktop, smart home Wi-Fi solutions, and clever tips for Apple Watch and VoiceOver users.Relevant LinksInnoSearch: https://www.innosearch.aiBe My Eyes: https://www.bemyeyes.comBlindShell Updates: https://www.blindshell.comOrbit Research: https://www.orbitresearch.com Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website---Follow on:YouTube: https://www.doubletaponair.com/youtubeX (formerly Twitter): https://www.doubletaponair.com/xInstagram: https://www.doubletaponair.com/instagramTikTok: https://www.doubletaponair.com/tiktokThreads: https://www.doubletaponair.com/threadsFacebook: https://www.doubletaponair.com/facebookLinkedIn: https://www.doubletaponair.com/linkedin Subscribe to the Podcast:Apple: https://www.doubletaponair.com/appleSpotify: https://www.doubletaponair.com/spotifyRSS: https://www.doubletaponair.com/podcastiHeadRadio: https://www.doubletaponair.com/iheart About Double TapHosted by the insightful duo, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, Double Tap is a treasure trove of information for anyone who's blind or partially sighted and has a passion for tech. Steven and Shaun not only demystify tech, but they also regularly feature interviews and welcome guests from the community, fostering an interactive and engaging environment. Tune in every day of the week, and you'll discover how technology can seamlessly integrate into your life, enhancing daily tasks and experiences, even if your sight is limited. "Double Tap" is a registered trademark of Double Tap Productions Inc. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive into listener emails and voice notes, exploring life, relationships, and tech from a blind perspective. From talking ovens and accessible banking to dating challenges and vision fatigue, this episode is a candid mix of laughs, insights, and community stories. In this lively listener-focused episode, Steven and Shaun open the inbox to a wealth of personal stories and questions. George shares a heartfelt account of his faulty talking combi oven, praising Cobalt Systems and Edit Microsystems for exceptional service. The hosts then tackle deeper topics, including online age verification, facial recognition barriers, and the complexities of relationships as a blind person. John from Missouri offers reflections on partial sight, vision fatigue, and the emotional journey of transitioning to cane use and embracing blindness. TJ shares the relatable frustration of unsupported customer service experiences. Karen chimes in with tips on accessibility in Outlook and thanks the team for inspiring her to navigate online shopping with confidence. The conversation flows between humour and heartfelt advice, touching on the invisible labour of being blind, societal perceptions, and the relief of living openly without masking disability. Relevant LinksCobalt Talking Products: https://www.cobalt-systems.comWeWalk Smart Cane: https://wewalk.ioDouble Tap Newsletter: https://doubletaponair.com/subscribe Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website---Follow on:YouTube: https://www.doubletaponair.com/youtubeX (formerly Twitter): https://www.doubletaponair.com/xInstagram: https://www.doubletaponair.com/instagramTikTok: https://www.doubletaponair.com/tiktokThreads: https://www.doubletaponair.com/threadsFacebook: https://www.doubletaponair.com/facebookLinkedIn: https://www.doubletaponair.com/linkedin Subscribe to the Podcast:Apple: https://www.doubletaponair.com/appleSpotify: https://www.doubletaponair.com/spotifyRSS: https://www.doubletaponair.com/podcastiHeadRadio: https://www.doubletaponair.com/iheart About Double TapHosted by the insightful duo, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, Double Tap is a treasure trove of information for anyone who's blind or partially sighted and has a passion for tech. Steven and Shaun not only demystify tech, but they also regularly feature interviews and welcome guests from the community, fostering an interactive and engaging environment. Tune in every day of the week, and you'll discover how technology can seamlessly integrate into your life, enhancing daily tasks and experiences, even if your sight is limited. "Double Tap" is a registered trademark of Double Tap Productions Inc. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode is supported by Pneuma Solutions. Creators of accessible tools like Remote Incident Manager and Scribe. Get $20 off with code dt20 at https://pneumasolutions.com/ and enter to win a free subscription at doubletaponair.com/subscribe!Explore the accessibility of ChatGPT Atlas and other AI browsers for blind users, with insights from Taylor Arndt of Tecopolis. Learn why ChatGPT Atlas scores just 1/10 for screen reader access and how alternatives like Perplexity Comet and Google Notebook LM could transform daily tasks for blind tech users. Steven Scott and Shaun Preece are joined by Taylor Arndt, Chief Accessibility and Operations Officer at Techopolis, to discuss the rise of AI browsers and their impact on accessibility. Taylor explains why ChatGPT Atlas, OpenAI’s new AI-powered browser, is virtually unusable for screen reader users, citing unlabelled buttons, inaccessible onboarding, and non-decorative background images. The conversation explores how Perplexity Comet delivers a more promising and inclusive experience, with agentic AI features that help automate tasks like editing websites, booking travel, and managing social media. Taylor also introduces Google’s Notebook LM, a tool for grounded AI learning, which can transform inaccessible educational content into interactive, accessible resources for blind learners. Hear real-world examples of AI in action, discover the potential of local versus cloud-based AI for privacy and reliability, and learn how Techopolis supports accessible Apple app development and coding education for blind users. Connect with Taylor Arndt & Techopolis using the links here:Substack: https://taylorarndt.substack.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7J5I0muqqQF51axXfPwrgAMastodon: https://techopolis.social/@taylorX/Twitter: https://x.com/tayarndt Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website---Follow on:YouTube: https://www.doubletaponair.com/youtubeX (formerly Twitter): https://www.doubletaponair.com/xInstagram: https://www.doubletaponair.com/instagramTikTok: https://www.doubletaponair.com/tiktokThreads: https://www.doubletaponair.com/threadsFacebook: https://www.doubletaponair.com/facebookLinkedIn: https://www.doubletaponair.com/linkedin Subscribe to the Podcast:Apple: https://www.doubletaponair.com/appleSpotify: https://www.doubletaponair.com/spotifyRSS: https://www.doubletaponair.com/podcastiHeadRadio: https://www.doubletaponair.com/iheart About Double TapHosted by the insightful duo, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, Double Tap is a treasure trove of information for anyone who's blind or partially sighted and has a passion for tech. Steven and Shaun not only demystify tech, but they also regularly feature interviews and welcome guests from the community, fostering an interactive and engaging environment. Tune in every day of the week, and you'll discover how technology can seamlessly integrate into your life, enhancing daily tasks and experiences, even if your sight is limited. "Double Tap" is a registered trademark of Double Tap Productions Inc. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Thanks to Turtleback Low Vision for sponsoring this episode of Double Tap. As a thank you to the Double Tap community, Turtleback is offering 12% off your entire order with promo code DT12. Visit https://www.turtlebacklv.com to shop the full lineup!Explore Samsung’s new Galaxy XR headset, ChatGPT’s Atlas AI browser, and Zoom’s fully accessible PodTrak P4 Next podcast recorder. Steven Scott and Shaun Preece break down the tech, accessibility features, and what this all means for blind and low vision users.This episode is packed with the latest in accessible tech. Samsung officially unveiled its Galaxy XR headset, a mixed reality device running Android XR, complete with TalkBack and low vision features like magnification, colour filters, and high-contrast modes. Steven and Shaun discuss why it’s a big leap for accessibility—yet still largely visual—and compare it to the Apple Vision Pro.The conversation then moves to ChatGPT Atlas, a new AI-powered browser designed to automate web tasks and improve accessibility, and to AppleVis testing co-browse AI for easier navigation of content.Finally, they dive into the Zoom PodTrak P4 Next, a redesigned, fully accessible podcast recorder with voice guidance, haptic feedback options, and AI noise reduction—ideal for blind creators. They discuss price, functionality, and why this could become the go-to tool for accessible audio production.Relevant LinksSamsung Galaxy XR Headset Overview: https://www.samsung.comZoom PodTrak P4 Next: https://zoomcorp.comAppleVis Co-Browse AI Beta: https://applevis.comChatGPT Atlas Browser: https://openai.com Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website---Follow on:YouTube: https://www.doubletaponair.com/youtubeX (formerly Twitter): https://www.doubletaponair.com/xInstagram: https://www.doubletaponair.com/instagramTikTok: https://www.doubletaponair.com/tiktokThreads: https://www.doubletaponair.com/threadsFacebook: https://www.doubletaponair.com/facebookLinkedIn: https://www.doubletaponair.com/linkedin Subscribe to the Podcast:Apple: https://www.doubletaponair.com/appleSpotify: https://www.doubletaponair.com/spotifyRSS: https://www.doubletaponair.com/podcastiHeadRadio: https://www.doubletaponair.com/iheart About Double TapHosted by the insightful duo, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, Double Tap is a treasure trove of information for anyone who's blind or partially sighted and has a passion for tech. Steven and Shaun not only demystify tech, but they also regularly feature interviews and welcome guests from the community, fostering an interactive and engaging environment. Tune in every day of the week, and you'll discover how technology can seamlessly integrate into your life, enhancing daily tasks and experiences, even if your sight is limited. "Double Tap" is a registered trademark of Double Tap Productions Inc. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Explore the worldwide internet outage that brought Amazon Web Services to a halt, our growing dependency on cloud technology, and Samsung’s new Android XR headset launch—plus an inspiring conversation with retired U.S. Judge David Tatel on blindness, technology, and his memoir, Vision.In this episode, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive into a major global internet outage triggered by Amazon Web Services and the cascading impact on apps, smart homes, and even essential services. They discuss the vulnerability of putting all our digital eggs in one basket, raising questions about the resilience of cloud computing for everyday users and critical systems. The conversation shifts to Samsung and Google’s highly anticipated Android XR headset, what it could mean for mainstream adoption, and the potential benefits for people with low vision. The hosts debate whether consumers will embrace headsets or wait for sleek XR glasses. Finally, the episode features an insightful archive interview with retired U.S. federal judge David Tatel, who shares his journey with retinitis pigmentosa, the challenges of hiding vision loss, and how technology transformed his professional and personal life. His memoir, Vision: A Memoir of Blindness and Justice, offers an honest look at resilience, acceptance, and the power of accessible tech.Relevant LinksDavid Tatel’s Vision: https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/david-s-tatel/vision/9780316566342/Double Tap: https://doubletaponair.com Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website---Follow on:YouTube: https://www.doubletaponair.com/youtubeX (formerly Twitter): https://www.doubletaponair.com/xInstagram: https://www.doubletaponair.com/instagramTikTok: https://www.doubletaponair.com/tiktokThreads: https://www.doubletaponair.com/threadsFacebook: https://www.doubletaponair.com/facebookLinkedIn: https://www.doubletaponair.com/linkedin Subscribe to the Podcast:Apple: https://www.doubletaponair.com/appleSpotify: https://www.doubletaponair.com/spotifyRSS: https://www.doubletaponair.com/podcastiHeadRadio: https://www.doubletaponair.com/iheart About Double TapHosted by the insightful duo, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, Double Tap is a treasure trove of information for anyone who's blind or partially sighted and has a passion for tech. Steven and Shaun not only demystify tech, but they also regularly feature interviews and welcome guests from the community, fostering an interactive and engaging environment. Tune in every day of the week, and you'll discover how technology can seamlessly integrate into your life, enhancing daily tasks and experiences, even if your sight is limited. "Double Tap" is a registered trademark of Double Tap Productions Inc. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Apple’s latest product updates are here, but are they worth your attention? Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive into the iPhone Air’s thin design which may be under threat, Apple’s new M5 devices, Mac accessibility frustrations, and explore the surprising rise of AI companionship, including ChatGPT’s new adult features. In this lively episode of Double Tap, Steven and Shaun give their first-hand impressions of Apple’s newest tech, from hotel mishaps with sighted guides to testing the iPhone Air’s battery life in the wild. They weigh in on the M5 MacBook Pro, iPad Pro, and Vision Pro, and discuss why these “spec bump” releases may leave many users underwhelmed. The conversation takes a fascinating turn into AI companionship and ethics, as ChatGPT now allows verified adult users to engage in intimate conversations. The hosts debate the benefits, risks, and wider societal impact for disabled and isolated users, while raising questions about safety, age verification, and digital vulnerability. Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website---Follow on:YouTube: https://www.doubletaponair.com/youtubeX (formerly Twitter): https://www.doubletaponair.com/xInstagram: https://www.doubletaponair.com/instagramTikTok: https://www.doubletaponair.com/tiktokThreads: https://www.doubletaponair.com/threadsFacebook: https://www.doubletaponair.com/facebookLinkedIn: https://www.doubletaponair.com/linkedin Subscribe to the Podcast:Apple: https://www.doubletaponair.com/appleSpotify: https://www.doubletaponair.com/spotifyRSS: https://www.doubletaponair.com/podcastiHeadRadio: https://www.doubletaponair.com/iheart About Double TapHosted by the insightful duo, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, Double Tap is a treasure trove of information for anyone who's blind or partially sighted and has a passion for tech. Steven and Shaun not only demystify tech, but they also regularly feature interviews and welcome guests from the community, fostering an interactive and engaging environment. Tune in every day of the week, and you'll discover how technology can seamlessly integrate into your life, enhancing daily tasks and experiences, even if your sight is limited. "Double Tap" is a registered trademark of Double Tap Productions Inc. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.