An initiative of
PALA Institute for Spiral Cognition
Guides for easier use of devices.
Explore communication aids and AAC
Active Communication provides augmentative and alternative communication aids, speech-output tools and adapted ways to operate devices. Its website introduces options for people who need support to communicate.
AAC: different ways to communicate
This English-language ASHA/NJC introduction explains augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). It is a starting point for learning about communication that supplements or replaces speech.
Make devices easier to use
AbilityNet’s My Computer My Way library provides step-by-step guides for making devices easier to use. Browse instructions for vision, hearing, movement and cognitive access needs.
iPhone: understand Live Captions
Apple’s official Live Captions guide explains how supported devices can display spoken content as text. It provides a starting point for exploring automatic captions.
Apple: type text and have it spoken
Apple’s Live Speech guide explains how to type text and have a supported device speak it aloud. It is a communication tool for expressing your own message, rather than a captioning service.
Visual assistance via app
Be My Eyes is an app for blind and low-vision people seeking visual assistance. It connects users with volunteers and offers AI-based help with visual information.
Android: show conversations as text
Google’s Live Transcribe guidance explains automatic conversion of speech into text on supported Android devices. It helps you explore a text-based way to follow spoken conversations.
Android: turn on TalkBack
Google’s official guide explains how to turn on TalkBack, the Android screen reader. It is a starting point for accessing a phone or tablet through spoken feedback.
Free NVDA Windows screen reader
NV Access develops NVDA, a free screen reader for Windows computers. The download page provides a starting point for accessing text and controls through screen reading.
Mac: screen reading and magnification
Apple’s official Mac accessibility guidance explains tools including VoiceOver and Zoom. It helps you explore screen reading, magnification and other built-in settings.
Android: magnify the screen
Google’s official Android guidance explains screen magnification. It helps you find the settings for enlarging what appears on your phone or tablet.
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