Your Feedback: Symbols For Blindness, Braille Future & The Neuralink Debate

04-11-2024 • 56 mins

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven and Shaun kick off the week with a lively discussion following listener emails, starting with Glendon, who shares an interesting television commercial about the checkered eye symbol for blind and low vision people. This sparks a broader discussion about the various symbols and methods used to indicate disabilities and the public's understanding of them.

Frank writes in about his experience with OrCam's customer service and the challenges of dealing with tech issues. He also touches on the RNIB's banking problems and the frustrations of dealing with IT issues. The hosts discuss the importance of accessible tech and the need for better training and support.

Leannda’s email brings up the topic of Braille and its accessibility, especially after education. Steven and Shaun discuss the declining use of Braille and the importance of making Braille technology more affordable and accessible to ensure its continued use. They also touch on the recent changes in iOS 18 and the issues some users have faced with the eloquence voice disappearing.

Mark from Perth shares his positive experience with Braille screen input on iOS 18 and recommends a helpful podcast episode from BrailleCast which can be found here: https://www.braillecast.com/podcast/x077/

Gregory's email connects the recent news about Be My Eyes on Meta's mainstream glasses to the broader issue of universal design and accessibility. The hosts agree on the importance of making all products accessible to everyone and discuss the challenges of achieving this goal.

Finally, Callum's message addresses the topic of Neuralink and the possibility of regaining vision. He shares his perspective as someone who has been blind from birth and expresses a desire to experience vision, despite the potential challenges. This leads to a thoughtful discussion about the varying opinions within the blind community on the topic of regaining sight.

Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.

Chapter Markers:

00:00 Intro

03:05 Glendon’s ‘Interesting’ TV Ad

05:36 Symbols for Disability Awareness

15:44 Frank’s Resolved Issues With OrCam

19:55 Leannda’s Thoughts On The Future Of Braille

33:00 Mark’s Experience Of Braille Screen Input

37:00:Gregory’s Thoughts On Teaching Braille To Kids

45:19 Callum’s Thoughts On Neuralink & Vision Restoration Perspectives