Now They're Talking? A Review of Two Cell Phone-Based Screen Readers
By Burton, Darren; Access World, Vol. 5, No. 6Publication Date: November 2004
Article evaluates the Nokia 6620 cellular phone used with both TALKS and Mobile Speak, which are two screen readers utilized in Nokia’s Symbian operating system. TALKS is produced by Brand & Grober Communications, while Mobile Speak is a software product produced by Code Factory. The applications are evaluated in terms of 17 key features: (1) keys that are easily identified by touch, (2) voice output, (3) accessible documentation, (4) battery level indicator, (5) roaming indicator, (6) message indicator, (7) phone book, (8) phone lock mode, (9) keypad lock, (10) power indicator, (11) ringing or vibrating mode indicator, (12) global positioning system features (13) signal strength indicator, (14) ringer volume control, (15) caller identification, (16) speed dialing, and (17) low vision accessibility. Overall, both products were found to provide true cellular phone accessibility, and no significant performance differences were found. Mobile Speak is slightly less expensive, but consumers can get TALKS on the Nokia 6620 for free if they sign up for a two-year service agreement in areas where Cingular service is available. The authors conclude that the high competition between these two quality applications should create incentive for companies to continue to make solid improvements in this technology.
Assistive Products Discussed: NUANCE TALKS
MOBILE SPEAK
Published by: AFB Press (Website:http://www.afb.org/Section.asp?SectionID=46)
American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) (Web Site: http://www.afb.org )
Link to text: http://www.afb.org/afbpress/pub.asp?DocID=aw050604
