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Braille Institute Unveils 6th Annual Assistive Technology Month

This January marks the return of the 6th Annual Assistive Technology Month hosted by the Braille Institute, a prominent organization devoted to empowering individuals with vision loss. This initiative is aimed at highlighting the latest advancements in assistive technology, particularly focusing on the transformative role of modern tools, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), in enhancing accessibility for blind or visually impaired persons.

Overview of the Month's Initiatives

Throughout January 2025, the Braille Institute will conduct a series of free interactive online workshops designed to engage participants in the latest assistive technologies. These workshops will be led by industry experts, including professionals with firsthand experience of vision loss, allowing for a deep dive into the technologies that are reshaping autonomy and quality of life for those with visual impairments.

Workshop Highlights

Learn About Aira with CTO Geoffrey Peddle: This session will introduce Aira's innovative smartphone app, which provides users with immediate access to professional visual interpreters through a simple push of a button. Attendees will learn about the app's cutting-edge AI capabilities and discover ways to get involved with user testing to improve the platform.

Successful Blind Professionals on Technology in the Workplace: Participants will hear from Lucas Nadolskis, a blind neuroscientist at UC Santa Barbara, and Claire Stanley, Policy Director of the American Council for the Blind. Their discussion will center around how they utilize advanced technology to excel in their careers and advocate for access to tech for all blind professionals.

Discover Meta's Smart Glasses: This session will explore a groundbreaking collaboration between Meta and Ray-Ban to develop AI-powered Smart Glasses that serve as powerful accessibility tools. Participants will learn about the capabilities of these new glasses and their potential impact.

Enhancing Experiences with iPhone 16 Features: Learn about the AI-driven features of the iPhone 16, including improved photo descriptions and advanced voice commands, which can significantly enhance daily living for visually impaired users.

Artificial Intelligence for the Visually Impaired: A workshop led by Dr. Ron Peterson will cover the implications of AI technology for blind individuals, addressing both the opportunities and challenges these advancements present in real-world scenarios.

Skylar Covich's Insights

Skylar Covich, the Lead Access Technology Specialist at Braille Institute, emphasizes the importance of assistive technology, stating, "Assistive technology is a real game changer for people with vision impairment. As we step into the new year, now is the perfect time to explore the wide range of tools and apps that enable people to maintain independence and stay active in their daily lives. Our Assistive Technology Month workshops have been thoughtfully selected to give participants practical skills and knowledge that can make a real difference."

Join the Movement

This year, Braille Institute invites everyone to embrace the new year as a chance to learn and adapt by utilizing technology that fosters greater independence and empowerment. The workshops will collectively showcase how individuals can leverage new skills and tools for a better quality of life.

About Braille Institute

The Braille Institute operates seven locations throughout Southern California, providing complimentary technology services for those who are blind or visually impaired. Offering both group and individual instruction on a diverse range of adaptive and mainstream technology, the organization ensures that individuals can access support in-person or virtually, free of charge.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn about the latest tools that promote accessibility and inclusivity for all!