Braille Institute Embraces Assistive Technology Month in November 2025

Celebrating Assistive Technology Month with Braille Institute

As November unfolds, Braille Institute, a key organization devoted to aiding individuals with vision impairments, announces the return of Assistive Technology Month. This celebration shines a light on groundbreaking innovations and tools aimed at enhancing accessibility and fostering independence for those who are blind or visually impaired.

This year's theme focuses on the rising influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) alongside other emerging technologies that are significantly altering daily living. Throughout the month, Braille Institute will host a series of engaging and free online workshops led by industry experts as well as those who have personal experiences with vision loss. These sessions aim to provide practical insights into the latest assistive technologies—from AI-driven applications to essential accessibility tools—that can boost independence, productivity, and overall quality of life.

Workshops to Discover

Participants can look forward to various workshops tailored to introduce them to the latest in assistive technology. Here are some highlights of what's in store:

1. Get Started with AI Prompts

Learn how to effectively interact with AI. This workshop will guide participants in crafting prompts that yield better responses from ChatGPT. Attendees will refine examples and practice techniques, concluding with a Q&A session.

2. How to Magnify on Your Phone

This workshop will cover the built-in magnification features available on both Apple and Android devices. Participants will learn how to activate these features and explore the differences between the two platforms through a moderated Q&A.

3. Choose the Right Screen Reader: VoiceOver vs. TalkBack

Introducing participants to Apple’s VoiceOver and Android’s TalkBack, this workshop will showcase the core features of both screen readers. Demonstrations and engaging discussions will follow.

4. Use Siri with ChatGPT

Discover how Apple’s Siri can be integrated with ChatGPT for quick, accurate answers. The session will cover setup, practical commands, and conclude with hands-on practice and a Q&A segment.

5. Let's Talk Smart Glasses

Representatives from various smart glasses companies, including EchoVision by AGIGA and Meta Glasses, will discuss how these tools can aid individuals with vision impairment.

Scott Blanks, Vice President of Accessibility and Employment at Braille Institute, emphasizes, "The greatest barrier to independence isn't vision loss—it's lack of access. Assistive technology bridges that gap, transforming 'I can't' into 'I can.' This November, join us to explore how technology is unlocking limitless possibilities in education, careers, and connection."

About Braille Institute

Braille Institute is a nonprofit organization committed to transforming the futures of individuals facing vision loss. Over the past century, it has delivered free programs aimed at empowering people to lead independent lives. The services range from assessments and technology training to mobility instruction and educational initiatives. Available in-person and virtually, these resources are designed to meet a broad spectrum of needs with respect to mainstream and adaptive technologies like iPhones, iPads, and various platforms for Android devices.

Through its ambitious initiative, Mission Magnified, Braille Institute aims to assist over 200,000 individuals annually within a five-year span. By expanding its reach, embracing cutting-edge technologies, and forming impactful partnerships, the organization is redefining what’s achievable for those with low to no vision.

For more information on the workshops and additional resources, please visit Braille Institute’s official website.