Double Tap

Today on Double Tap, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece engage in a lively discussion about the relevance and importance of Braille in today's society. They explore the challenges facing Braille literacy, the impact of the cost of braille technology, and the need for more education and community support to ensure that Braille remains a viable option for blind and visually impaired people. As always, our conversation is fueled by your feedback, highlighting diverse perspectives on the topic which are always welcome.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us [email protected] or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro08:21 Debate on Braille's Relevance42:24 Listener Feedback: Exploring Technology for Blind Gardeners46:32 Listener Feedback: AI Shopping Tools: Enhancing Independence

In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece reflect on the significance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.Our main interview today however focuses on a major milestone for Apple, as in 2025 they celebrate 40 years of providing accessibility to disabled people. Global Head of Accessibility at the company, Sarah Herrlinger, joins Steven Scott to discuss the changes that have come in over the years and where accessibility is today in 2024.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us [email protected] or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro14:50 Listener Email: Braille Publishing Challenges20:52 Listener Email: Reflections on Sight Village Event23:36 Listener Email: The Glide Experience and Guide Dogs27:24 Listener Email: Innovations in Assistive Technology30:26 Celebrating 40 Years of Apple Accessibility with Sarah Herrlinger

Today on the show, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece meet Mike Shebanek, a pivotal figure in the development of Apple VoiceOver. They explore the history of accessibility at Apple, the myths surrounding the creation of VoiceOver, and the importance of community feedback in its development. Mike shares his journey from product management to leading accessibility initiatives, emphasizing the need for inclusive technology that benefits everyone. The discussion also touches on his transition to Meta and the challenges of ensuring accessibility across a vast user base. He also discusses his experiences at Meta, focusing on the challenges and innovations in making technology accessible for all. He highlights the importance of measuring accessibility accurately and the role of AI in enhancing user experiences. Transitioning to his current role at Be My Eyes, he emphasizes the development of hands-free wearable technology that aims to empower blind users. The discussion also touches on the future of AI and its potential to improve accessibility, as well as the significance of integrating assistive technology into mainstream products.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us [email protected] or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro02:31 Mike Shebbeneck's Journey at Apple05:52 The Origins of VoiceOver: Myths and Realities10:21 The Vision Behind Accessibility at Apple15:27 Community Engagement and Feedback in Development20:09 The Evolution of VoiceOver and Its Features25:51 Transitioning to Meta: Accessibility Challenges and Insights28:42 Building Accessibility at Meta33:23 Innovations in AI for Accessibility37:05 Transition to Be My Eyes39:30 Hands-Free Wearable Technology45:11 The Future of AI and Accessibility

On today’s show, Steven and Shaun get into a lively discussion about the ongoing debate between Mac and Windows users. They explore their personal experiences with both operating system and dive into the complexities of using both systems simultaneously. The guys are joined by regular guest and podcast host Michael Babcock, and they discuss the intricacies of using Windows and Mac systems, focusing on compatibility, user experience, and the best tools for productivity. They also explore the advantages of each platform, the importance of choosing the right computer, and how to integrate both systems effectively.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us [email protected] or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Introduction to the Mac vs. Windows Debate03:50 The Return to Mac: Experiences and Insights06:48 The Evolution of ARM and Legacy Software09:38 Choosing the Right Computer: Mac vs. Windows12:38 The Value of Mac Mini and Portability15:48 Gaming and Desktop vs. Laptop Preferences18:42 Final Thoughts on Mac and Windows Experiences32:22 Navigating Windows and Mac Integration38:22 Comparing Virtualization Software: Parallels vs. VMware Fusion44:26 Productivity Tools and File Management