Double Tap

The hosts dive into the emotional complexities of disability pride and the challenges faced by those with blindness. Listener stories spark discussions about the frustrations of online shopping and accessible fashion. They share valuable insights on technology like the Apple Watch and its benefits for independence. Humorous moments arise as they address listener feedback while advocating for authentic conversations around mobility aids and societal perceptions. The heartfelt dialogue emphasizes community support and the importance of representation in tech.

How should we respond to accessibility failures—calmly or with fire? Steven and Shaun read listener feedback on everything from guide dog refusals to glucose monitoring with the Libre system. It's a fiery, funny, and thoughtful episode packed with insight from the blind community.In this episode, Steven and Shaun dive into a stack of listener feedback covering serious accessibility challenges and personal experiences. Topics include the Meta Ray-Ban update rollout, service animal refusals, emotional responses to inaccessibility, and blind advocacy fatigue.Listener Joker Alice calls for respectful conversations over outrage, while Carl and Mandy provide practical advice on using the Libre continuous glucose monitoring system with accessibility features like audio graphs and self-voicing modes. Darren shares a successful experience shopping independently with InnoSearch, and Jeanette highlights accessible radio options amid the decline of the Speech Radio app.Rounding out the episode, Rebecca comments on accessibility quirks in Amazon devices, Graham and Dave help fix iOS email notification issues, and there's even a nostalgic rant about free tea in NHS hospitals.00:00 - Introduction00:51 - Shaun hates lawnmowers!04:48 - Listener Stan updates up on Meta updates09:22 - Listener Joker Alice on blind advoacy22:13 - Listener Darren on his experience using Innosearch31:17 - Listener Jeanette on the accessibility of radio39:07 - Listener Carl on the state of diabetes technology45:11 - Listener Mandy shares thoughts on the Freestyle Libre 248:29 - Listener Rebecca on the Amazon Fire Tablet49:43 - Listener Graham on recieving email notifications51:21 - Listener Dave follows up on email notifications issues ----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.

Join Steven Scott and Shaun Preece as they explore the latest in accessible technology live from Sight Village Birmingham. From wearable navigation aids to tactile imaging, it's a jam-packed episode with real-world insights, humour, and tech highlights.In this special on-location episode of Double Tap, Steven and Shaun broadcast from Sight Village in the UK, sharing first impressions, accessibility challenges, and the tech that caught their attention. They recount the chaotic journey to their Airbnb, highlight products from HumanWare and Kapsys, and dig into emerging wearable navigation aids like the WeWalk SmartCane 2, BiPED, and KapX.The hosts also reflect on how AI is quietly transforming assistive tech—whether through devices like the Hark AI Reader or the potential for 3D tactile printing. Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses continue to generate buzz, though concerns about limited availability of functions and underwhelming AI persist. They also discuss the digital divide, accessibility in healthcare, and concerns about data privacy and regulation in the age of AI.Chapters0:00 – Live from Sight Village03:05 – Travel drama and Airbnb confusion11:30 – Navigation apps and accessibility challenges17:22 – Wearable tech: WeWalk, CapEx, BiPED28:15 – SmartCane 2 and ChatGPT integration33:50 – HumanWare tech preview: Monarch, Mantis, Cloverbook42:08 – Hark AI Reader and desktop scanning50:20 – 3D tactile printing and accessible imagery57:32 – AI regulation and digital inequality1:04:15 – Meta Ray-Bans and Be My Eyes feedback1:08:47 – The importance of Sight Village and community ----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 and Shaun return from their short break with a packed episode tackling everything from JAWS pricing drama to the future of smart doorbells and AI agents. A major focus is the workplace screen reader debate: why NVDA isn't widely adopted, and whether JAWS remains the only viable option for employment.Later, they’re joined by Matt Ater and Ryan Jones from Vispero, who clarify misunderstandings around recent price changes, subscription models, and international support. The pair also tease new JAWS features coming this fall, including support for multi-line braille and AI-powered web navigation tools.The episode also explores Ring's new AI video description feature for premium users, promising a step toward smarter accessibility. Plus, the team share a demo of Guide—an AI assistant that can perform actions on inaccessible websites—and react to Apple’s rumored Anthropic-powered Siri upgrade.Chapters00:00 - Introduction00:19 - And we’re back from break!12:15 - Ring doorbells get new AI features in USA and Canada16:57 - Guide offers a way to easily interact with a computer21:53 - Apple may use Anthropic to improve Siri more quickly23:54 - New Macbook rumour using iPhone processor26:52 - Vispero’s Matt Ater and Ryan Jones discuss pricing & 30 years of JAWS ----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 this episode, Steven and Shaun explore why JAWS dominates screen reader use in the workplace and whether NVDA is a viable alternative considering potential price increases for JAWS. They discuss pricing, support, accessibility scripting, and the future of assistive tech.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!With screen reader costs rising and accessibility funding under pressure, Steven and Shaun take a deep dive into the JAWS vs. NVDA debate. They question why JAWS continues to be the default in many workplaces despite NVDA's maturity and free availability. The conversation touches on software scripting, compatibility with custom enterprise tools, and the broader accessibility tech ecosystem.Steven reflects on personal experiences with screen reader licensing, funding delays, and being offered limited choices in tech procurement. The duo also share frustrations with Windows and macOS accessibility bugs, VoiceOver focus issues, and WhatsApp interface quirks. Shaun raises the idea of jog wheels for audio editing and asks listeners for feedback on Reaper workflows.The episode ends with a thought-provoking discussion on whether Microsoft should acquire an assistive tech company to secure the future of screen reading software.Please note: Double Tap returns from break on the 7th June 2025. ----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.

Is Eleven Labs building the next big voice assistant? Steven and Shaun break down the company's latest demo video and share their thoughts on the future of AI integration. Plus, practical talk on screen readers, accessible appliances, and daily blind tech.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!Steven and Shaun dissect ElevenLabs’ new “11 AI” demo video and question whether it's more than marketing hype. While impressed by its natural-sounding voices and emotional tone control, they debate the lack of real integration and functionality, comparing it to other voice assistant platforms like Gemini and ChatGPT. The hosts also explore the deeper challenge of integrating AI across everyday apps and services—and why we're still not there yet.Later, they shift to listener emails on topics including accessibility of LG appliances, the decline of WhatsApp support on older iPhones, alternatives for low-cost accessible tech, and the emotional weight of navigating blindness and independence. They also touch on third-party Android screen readers like Prudence, Bluetooth Apple TV setups, and the elusive “blindness uniform.”Chapters00:00 - Start02:33 - Introducing 11 AI14:18 - Do you wash your liquid level indicator?26:54 - Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions28:32 - Listener Joel on legacy technology39:09 - Listener Jeff on accessible LG appliances, iPhone uses & Dummy HDMI53:21 - Listener Jason on accessible PTT radios ----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.

Are audio-based social apps still relevant for blind users in 2025? Steven and Shaun revisit Zello, Clubhouse, and other platforms while tackling listener questions about Siri, Braille signage, CD ripping, and accessible radio tech.In this episode of Double Tap, Steven and Shaun open the inbox and answer listener questions on everything from nostalgic chat apps like Zello and Clubhouse to modern frustrations with Siri. They discuss the decline of accessible audio-first communities, challenges with Braille signage in public spaces, and the reality of digitizing CD collections for Bluetooth listening.Listeners also raise concerns about potential funding cuts to US assistive technology (AT) programs and the future of Braille and specialized devices. Plus, there’s news about a new talking DAB/FM radio in development and practical feedback on using Siri offline or with different accents.Chapters00:00 - Introduction05:02 - Listener Marc on audio social media apps16:13 - Listener Mary says you can use Siri to open apps even while offline18:38 - Listener Nicole wants to rip her CDs27:25 - Listener Ray talks about the challenge of inaccessible radios29:12 - Listener Tom asks about indoor navigation using the Stellar Trek30:46 - Listener Steve is getting refresher lessons for mobility38:07 - Listener Rebecca has concerns about the state of the AT market in the US39:56 - Listener Scout on various topics including a good mug for Shaun45:36 - Listener Ryan on the best way to speak to Siri49:21 - Listener Pete wants a Mr F badge50:10 - Listener Damian wonders what all the fuss around Siri is? ----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 shares the emotional and practical realities of applying for a guide dog, while Shaun questions the balance between blind pride and accessibility struggles. The duo also tackles listener emails on delivery frustrations, hearing myths, and audio description failures.In this episode of Double Tap, Steven opens up about his recent guide dog assessment and the mental toll it took. The conversation explores the complexities of guide dog eligibility, mobility expectations, and the challenges blind people face in daily life. Shaun and Steven reflect on blind pride, debating whether it empowers or downplays real obstacles. Listener feedback adds depth, from Grace’s Amazon delivery experience to Logan’s frustration with inaccessible blind school screenings. Lisa shares insight on using Glide, while Hetty and Lucas raise important points about independence and tech durability.Chapters00:00 - Introduction01:31 - Steven has his guide dog assessment!18:04 - Listener Geroge doesn’t like to move it, move it22:22 - Listener Lisa with comments on Glide and blind people’s hearing28:31 - Listener Grace on blind people texting and annoying delivery drivers33:10 - Listener Heddy on the subject of blind pride44:42 - Listener Logan on school for the blind not showing audio described movies in class48:24 - Listener Lucas on the durability of Meta Ray Bans53:53 - Listener Camille on boats not having steering wheels! ----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.

New Meta Oakley smart glasses, upgraded voices for screen readers, and an honest look at accessibility shopping—all packed into this lively Double Tap episode.In this episode, Steven and Shaun kick off the week with updates on Meta's latest collaboration with Oakley, bringing new smart glasses with improved battery and camera specs. They also debate the merits of new SAPI 5 text-to-speech voices from Blastbay, evaluating how they perform at higher speech rates for productivity. Listener emails spark thoughtful discussions on Braille literacy, the performance of AI phone shopping tools like InnoSearch, and creative workarounds for hands-free video calling. Plus, there's a surprising gadget that combines hydration and MagSafe.Chapters00:00 - Introduction03:47 - Double Tap takes a holiday!05:27 - Double Tap is coming to Sight Village07:25 - Meta and Oakley partner to create new smart sunglasses option15:42 - Blast Bay offers new SAPI 5 voices for Windows users26:30 - Subscribe to the Double Tap newsletter27:28 - Contact the show!30:30 - Listener Yusuf gives his thoughts on braille and literacy40:55 - Listener Darren shares his experience of using Innosearch49:59 - Listener Rich on alternatives to the FaceBook Portal devices ----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 and Shaun tackle the big questions this week—from being trapped in a recliner to debating whether sheltered workshops for disabled people still have value. Plus, listener emails spark deep dives into Braille, inclusion, and how technology can both help and hinder.In this episode of Double Tap, Steven shares his comical ordeal of being stuck in an electric recliner during a power outage—complete with melting KitKats and home automation chaos. Shaun adds his own take on tech dependency and heatwave fashion choices.The conversation shifts into more serious territory as they respond to listener emails. Doug Lawlor reignites the Braille literacy debate, emphasizing the value of combining Braille and screen reader skills. Steven and Shaun unpack the pros and cons of teaching Braille later in life, the barriers to adoption, and accessibility challenges in public spaces like cruise ships and toilets.Later, a message from Raheem in Ireland about sheltered workshops in Kenya sparks a meaningful discussion about employment, inclusion, and whether creating dedicated workspaces for disabled people might offer purpose and community—especially when mainstream systems fall short.Steven ends with a powerful call for blind leadership in blindness organizations, questioning why inclusion often seems to exclude the very people it aims to support.Chapters00:00 - Introduction00:30 - Shaun’s incredible trousers02:28 - Steven’s power dilemma07:51 - Should blind people buy bulbs?15:26 - Listener Doug talks about braille literacy31:52 - Listener Mickey likes our newsletter33:12 - Listener Raheem discusses the value of blind workshops in Kenya55:08 - Rumours of new style Meta frames coming soon ----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.