Ep. 43, A Staff of Independence - History of the White Cane

In this episode, I break down all the brand-new accessibility features coming to **iOS, macOS, iPadOS, watchOS, and VisionOS** this summer. From accessibility nutrition labels in the App Store to Live Captions on Apple Watch, Braille Note Taker functionality, and even personal voice upgrades, Apple is making huge strides for users with low vision, blindness, hearing loss, and other disabilities. And yes, major improvements are also coming to the Apple Vision Pro! Whether you're blind, visually impaired, hard of hearing, or just someone who loves accessible tech, you don’t want to miss these updates. Learn more ► https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2025/05/apple-unveils-powerful-accessibility-features-coming-later-this-year/ ► https://9to5mac.com/2025/05/13/apple-unveils-ios-19-accessibility-features/ Watch my Apple Vision Pro videos!: ► https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLThdr7uPwVs12xgN9CSEtAqnJR9URSL9Q In this episode * Accessibility Nutrition Labels * Magnifier App on Mac * Accessibility Reader Across Platforms * Braille Access Updates * Live Listen & Captions on Apple Watch * Personal Voice Upgrade * Accessibility Sharing on Shared Devices * Apple Vision Pro Accessibility Enhancements #AppleAccessibility #BlindTech #TheBlindLife #iOSAccessibility #VisionPro #LowVisionSupport #BrailleTech #AssistiveTech #DigitalInclusion #AccessibilityMatters

"A Staff Of Independence"  As the US celebrates the anniversary of its independence, we are talking about the white cane and how it has brought independence to the visually impaired community. I also talked to several VIP influencers and asked them about their white cane journeys. Project Guiding White: ► https://guidingwhite.wordpress.com/ ACB: ► http://www.acb.org/tennessee/white_cane_history.html#:~:text=James%20Biggs%20of%20Bristol%20claimed,himself%20more%20visible%20to%20motorists. Veronica Width Four Eyes: ► https://veroniiiica.com/2018/01/12/decoding-the-colors-of-blindness-canes/ VIP Influencers featured in the video: Dave Steele, The Blind Poet ► https://theblindpoet.net/ Derek Daniel, Life After Sight Loss ► https://www.youtube.com/user/derekdanielvids Carrie Morales, Live Accessible ► https://www.youtube.com/user/exentrquita James Rath, VIP Filmmaker ► https://www.youtube.com/user/jamesrath Casey Greer, How Casey Sees It ► https://www.youtube.com/user/KCfan7989 Matt, Blind To Billionaire ► https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYqOP98j1cPqLzN2-AAgsHQ Juan, JC5 Productions ► https://www.youtube.com/user/JC12209

In this exciting episode of The Blind Life, Sam is joined by InnoSearch AI and Be My Eyes representatives to announce a groundbreaking new partnership that will revolutionize accessible shopping for the blind and visually impaired community. InnoSearch AI is a screen-reader-optimized shopping and travel platform offering access to over one billion products and services. Thanks to their collaboration with Be My Eyes, users can access InnoSearch directly from the Be My Eyes app, making the experience even more seamless and convenient. If you're blind or have low vision, this partnership could unlock new levels of independence, savings, and confidence when navigating the online world. Learn more about InnoSearch AI and sign up for a free account + $10 shopping credit: ► https://innosearch.ai/r/nRhfYt Download Be My Eyes for iOS, Android, or Windows: ► https://www.bemyeyes.com/

In this video, we’re diving into all the latest updates to the Meta Ray-Ban Smart Glasses for 2025, including two game-changing features that just rolled out in April. Whether you're new to the Meta glasses or a longtime user, these updates bring some major quality-of-life improvements—especially for those of us in the blind and visually impaired community. I walk through how features like real-time object recognition, hands-free translation, Audible audiobook streaming, and enhanced Spotify voice controls are improving daily life. We also talk about international expansion for music app compatibility and the upgraded AI voice options—yes, even celebrity voices like John Cena! These updates are a huge step forward in accessibility and usability, and they’re already making tasks like traveling, shopping, and reading much easier for many of us. For full details, demos, and my thoughts on how this technology fits into our lives as blind and visually impaired users, watch the full video. Don’t forget to check out my accessibility-themed t-shirt designs, available through the link below or at [TheBlindLife.net](https://www.theblindlife.net). ✅ Like the video ✅ Subscribe to the channel ✅ Hit the bell so you don’t miss future updates ✅ Explore channel memberships for exclusive perks and monthly Zoom calls Thanks for watching and supporting The Blind Life! \#TheBlindLife #MetaRayBan #AssistiveTechnology #SmartGlasses #BlindTech #Accessibility #LiveAI #WearableTech #VisuallyImpaired #InclusiveDesign

The BlindShell Classic 3 is here. This latest version of the popular accessible phone for the blind and visually impaired comes packed with major upgrades, including a touchscreen for select apps, a faster processor, and a brand-new AI assistant, Luna. Plus, we’re diving into Tandem, the exclusive BlindShell app that makes communication easier than ever. New Features: - Touchscreen support for select third-party apps - Luna AI Assistant for voice commands and general knowledge - Tandem App for messaging, video calls, and remote support - Upgraded performance with 3GB RAM and 32GB storage - New design and colors (Golden Sand and Ocean Blue) If you're looking for an accessible, easy-to-use cell phone with physical buttons and a simple interface, this might be the perfect choice. Watch the full review to see all the features in action. Get yours here: ► https://www.blindshell.com/ Check out my BlindShell Classic 2 review: ► https://youtu.be/5r9V_UsJ6ng?si=2Y9Bl3QOq27lG7GR #BlindShellClassic3 #AccessibleTechnology #AssistiveTech #BlindLife #LowVision #VisuallyImpaired #AdaptiveTechnology #TechForAll #AIAssistant #TandemApp

In this heartfelt episode of "The Blind Life Podcast," we discuss the often-overlooked challenges faced by blind and visually impaired individuals at social events. From the struggle to recognize faces and read body language to the emotional weight of feeling invisible, we explore the complexities of navigating social spaces without sight. This anonymous Facebook post highlights the importance of empathy, understanding, and small gestures that can make a significant difference. Tune in to hear personal stories, practical advice, and inspiring messages of resilience and connection. #BlindCommunity #VisuallyImpaired #SocialIsolation #Empathy #Inclusion #DisabilityAwareness #Connection #Resilience #SeeingBeyondSight

Welcome to The Blind Life Podcast! In this exciting episode, we're joined by Drew Crook, an accessibility architect at Paramount Global. Drew is at the forefront of making streaming platforms like Pluto TV and Paramount Plus more accessible to everyone.  Drew shares his personal journey living with a vision impairment, and how he thrives in his career with the support of his third guide dog. We dive deep into his experiences, from the hiring process to the reasonable accommodations that help him excel at his job. You'll also hear some eye-opening stories about Drew's interactions with customers at an Apple store, which will shed light on his challenges and triumphs! Don’t miss this insightful conversation! Follow Drew on LinkedIn and stay tuned for more inspiring episodes. (41) Andrew Crook | LinkedIn Listen now and be inspired! #BlindLifePodcast #Accessibility #ParamountGlobal #TubiTV #ParamountPlus #VisionImpairment #GuideDog #Inspiration #TechTalk #DisabilityAdvocacy

Okay, folks, get ready. Because today, we’re going deep, deep into the world of those Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses. Oh, yeah. Hold on. We’re not just talking about how cool they look. But let’s be honest, they are pretty slick. Right. But you’ve sent us a ton of stuff on these glasses. Yeah. Reviews, articles, even some hints about what’s coming down the line. 🔍 Episode Highlights: Unboxing & First Impressions: Get an up-close look at the sleek design and premium build quality. Hardware Breakdown: Discover the open ear technology, five microphones, and the impressive 12-megapixel camera. User Experience: Hear about the seamless setup process, voice assistant capabilities, and the versatile MetaView app. Accessibility Insights: Are these glasses a game changer for people who are blind or visually impaired? We dive into the real-world usability and accessibility features. Personal Insights: Marco shares his hands-on experience and why he believes these glasses strike the perfect balance between features, price, and aesthetics. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or just curious about the future of smart wearables, this episode is packed with insights and expert opinions.   #RayBanMeta #SmartGlasses #WearableTech #TechReview #Podcast #TechTalk #Accessibility #BlindLife Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast for more in-depth reviews and tech discussions. Leave us a rating and review to let us know what you think, and share this episode with your friends who love tech!

Hey everybody, it's Sam with The Blind Life! Welcome back to another exciting episode of The Blind Life Podcast. In today's episode, I'm thrilled to chat with my friend Sedona Dave, the brilliant mind behind Awarewolf Gear. We dive deep into the creation and innovation of two groundbreaking mobility aids: the All Terrain Cane and the brand new Urban Xplorer. We revisit my conversation with Dave in LA, where he shares the inspiration and unique features of the All Terrain Cane. Then we catch up with Dave to discuss the Urban Xplorer, his latest innovation designed for urban environments. Key Features Discussed: - The inspiration behind the All Terrain Cane - Unique design elements and durability - The development process of the Urban Xplorer - How these canes enhance mobility for the blind This episode is perfect for anyone interested in assistive technology, particularly those who are visually impaired or work in the field of mobility aids. It's also a must-watch for tech enthusiasts and innovators looking to learn about the latest advancements in mobility solutions. If you enjoyed this episode, please give it a thumbs up, share it with your friends, and don't forget to subscribe to The Blind Life for more content on assistive technology.  #TheBlindLife #AssistiveTechnology #AllTerrainCane #UrbanXplorer #MobilityAids #BlindTech #SedonaDave #AwarewolfGear #InnovativeMobility  

In this episode of The Blind Life Podcast, Sam Seavey continues the Working Blind series with Christy, who shares her inspiring journey from a career in consulting to leading global disability accommodations at Otis Elevator. Diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa at age 3, Christy talks about adapting to vision loss, the transition to audiobooks, and how self-advocacy plays a key role in creating a more accessible world. Listen in as she shares her professional and personal experiences to inspire others in the blind and visually impaired community. Check out more episodes in the *Working Blind* series on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform! Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode! #BlindLife #WorkingBlind #Accessibility #Audiobooks #RetinitisPigmentosa #AssistiveTechnology