Accessible Android Apps June 2018 & Update For NFC Labels

This is the list of apps I’m currently using on my LG G6 which is now running Oreo.
I use a combination of a bluetooth keyboard and touch. It just depends on what I am doing in each app, its just a matter of what works easiest for me. That is why I consider them to be accessible. They may not be for you as we all have our own needs, abilities, & ways of doing things.

I’ve listed the app for our tempature & humidity sensor, thought I’d include some info for the sensor.
It is a little clunky in the first setup but once its setup and paired, its quick & easy to open the app, hear the average then a current reading. It uses bluetooth low energy. In pairing with the app, move the sensor over & around the screen. The sensor is a small square device you can put on a counter, on a desk, or anywhere out of the way. Talkback speaks the average and current readings just fine.

SensorPush Wireless Thermometer / Hygrometer for iPhone / Android – Humidity & Temperature Smart Sensor with Alerts
$49.99
https://goo.gl/56ZD2N

Here is a drop box link to my collection of .m3u files I use in the VLC app below. I keep them in a folder called AAA so its at the top of wherever I choose to copy the folder, internal or external storage on my phone.
Again, its a matter of how I do things for me, rename it or put the files in a place that works for you. You can also use these with a media player on your computer. AAA6-2018.zip
https://www.dropbox.com/s/4csihmplqepxmf9/AAA6-2018.zip?dl=1

I’ve used different email apps such as Aqua Mail which worked great & I loved, I’ve just taken a more simple approach to things lately with using the Gmail app & others that are from Google instead. Just something I felt like doing for now.

One last update…
I was going to share a link to the NFC Tags I use with both the NFCLabeler app and the MacroDroid app but noticed Amazon, the place I bought them from is out of stock.
I contacted the company that makes the tags and they replied to me within about two minutes. You can buy the tags directly from their store by going to:
http://store.gototags.com/nfc-pvc-badge-ntag213/

If I can be of any help, feel free to contact me on twitter (@blindbites) or you can email me (steve@blindbites.com).

Calendar
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.calendar

Clipper Sync Plugin
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.clippersync.android.plugin

Clipper+
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=fi.rojekti.clipper

DoorDash
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.dd.doordash

Express
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.shopping.express

Freemotion change
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.visionandroid.apps.motionsensor

Gmail
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.gm&hl=en_US

Home
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.chromecast.app

KNFB Reader
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sensotec.knfbreader

LastPass
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lastpass.lpandroid

Lens
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.ar.lens

Lyft
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=me.lyft.android

MacroDroid
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.arlosoft.macrodroid

Music Folder Player Full
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=de.zorillasoft.musicfolderplayer.donate

My App List
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.projectsexception.myapplist

Netflix
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.netflix.mediaclient

NFC Labeler
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=hu.gersoft.nfclabeler

Nova Launcher
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.teslacoilsw.launcher

Nova Launcher Prime
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.teslacoilsw.launcher.prime

Pocket Casts
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=au.com.shiftyjelly.pocketcasts

SensorPush
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.cousins_sears.beaconthermometer

Shouter
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bhkapps.proshouter

Skype Lite
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.skype.m2

Spotify
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.spotify.music

TapTapSee
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.msearcher.taptapsee.android

The Weather Channel
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.weather.Weather

Trusted Contacts
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.emergencyassist

TuneIn Radio Pro
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=radiotime.player

Tweetings
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.dwdesign.tweetings

Uber
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ubercab

Uber Eats
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ubercab.eats

VLC
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.videolan.vlc

Shared by ‘My App List’
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.projectsexception.myapplist

Accessible Android Apps May 2018

This is a list of the Android apps I’m currently using on my LG G6, which is still running Android 7.0.

The list does change from time to time as I try new apps for awhile. I’ve learned that sometimes an app which might not have worked well for you six months ago has had some changes and now works great. If you know of an app like that, don’t forget to install it again and see if anything has changed. My experience with that was the Gmail app.

I use a combination of an external keyboard (Logitech K380) and touch. It just depends on the app & what I am doing. This combination makes these apps accessible to me. We all have different accessibility needs, so your mileage may vary.

AccuWeather
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.accuweather.android

Amazon Alexa
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.amazon.dee.app

LastPass Authenticator
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lastpass.authenticator

Be My Eyes
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bemyeyes.bemyeyes

Calendar
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.calendar

Clipper Sync Plugin
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.clippersync.android.plugin

Clipper+
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=fi.rojekti.clipper

DoorDash
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.dd.doordash

Google Express
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.shopping.express

Files Go
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.nbu.files

Find My Device
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.adm

Freemotion change
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.visionandroid.apps.motionsensor

Google Play Books
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.books

Google Home
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.chromecast.app

Gmail
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.gm&hl=en_US

iHeartRadio
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.clearchannel.iheartradio.controller

Keep
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.keep

KNFB Reader
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sensotec.knfbreader

LastPass
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lastpass.lpandroid

Lyft
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=me.lyft.android

MacroDroid
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.arlosoft.macrodroid

Music Folder Player Full
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=de.zorillasoft.musicfolderplayer.donate

My App List
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.projectsexception.myapplist

Netflix
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.netflix.mediaclient

NFC Labeler
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=hu.gersoft.nfclabeler

Nova Launcher
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.teslacoilsw.launcher

Nova Launcher Prime
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.teslacoilsw.launcher.prime

OneDrive
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.microsoft.skydrive

ParcelTrack
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.uberblic.parceltrack

Pocket Casts
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=au.com.shiftyjelly.pocketcasts

Reply
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.area120.reply

SensorPush
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.cousins_sears.beaconthermometer

Shouter
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bhkapps.proshouter

Spotify
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.spotify.music

TapTapSee
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.msearcher.taptapsee.android

Trusted Contacts
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.emergencyassist

Tweetings
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.dwdesign.tweetings

Uber
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ubercab

Uber Eats
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ubercab.eats

VLC
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.videolan.vlc

Voice
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.googlevoice

Shared by ‘My App List’
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.projectsexception.myapplist

Adding A Shortcut For Chrome

Here’s a feature of the Google Chrome browser you may not know about that can save you time.

When you are on a web page in Chrome, you can add a shortcut to your desktop in Windows. When you press enter on that shortcut, Chrome will open to that page you made a shortcut for.
If you use Gmail on the web, doing this can make things super easy and fast to go to the gmail site.

First, open Google Chrome and go to the page you want to make a shortcut for.
Once you are there and everything is loaded, press alt f to open the menu in Chrome. Use the cursor or arrow keys to move to More Tools and press enter. Move to Add To Desktop and press enter.
You will now be in a dialog asking you to name the shortcut. Chrome will have a suggested name but enter whatever you want to call it. Tab to add and press enter.

A new shortcut will now be on your desktop.
Next time you want to go directly to that site, just go to your desktop and press enter on the shortcut.

My Chromebook Experience 6 Months Later

For the past six months, I’ve been using a Samsung Chromebook Plus and I am still impressed with this great accessible device.
One note, my comments and use are based on someone who is blind. A Chromebook is also very useful to others, especially someone who doesn’t need the complexity of a Windows PC. A Chromebook has Accessibility built in, but if it isn’t needed, you don’t have to turn it on.

First, its not for everyone. For those who might not know, a Chromebook is a small laptop that is running a version of Google’s Chrome browser as its operating system, ChromeOS.
It also runs Android apps, which just adds to the many things one can do with a Chromebook. For the Android apps, it uses Android’s screen reader, Talkback. ChromeOS has its own built-in screen reader, ChromeVox.
Both are easy to use on a Chromebook and its easy to get, or interact with a list of keyboard commands.
These aren’t the same commands that one might use with PC screen readers such as NVDA or Jaws, but that is because this is a Chromebook and not a computer running Windows.
This is why there is a learning curve involved but there always are things to learn with a new or different device. The keystrokes are very logical and easy to use.
One item that is different is the modifier key. On a Windows PC using NVDA for example, you would hold the insert key then press another key. In ChromeVox it is the search key, which you might know better on a regular keyboard for a PC as the caps lock key.
One easy method for navigating a web page using ChromeVox is to hold the search key and use the 4 arrow, or cursor keys. Yes, those keys exist on a Chromebook too. One can simply navigate by heading by pressing search and h. You can move to the next button on a web page with search b. Pressing search shift and h will move you to the previous heading, search shift b will move you to the previous button. This is what I mean by saying the keyboard shortcuts are logical.
If you forget the shortcut or just want to explore the list of ChromeVox shortcuts, press search and period. You’ll be in a list you can explore and will hear what the keyboard shortcut does, along with the keys to press. You can also just hit enter on an item in the list to perform that shortcut. That option is great for those times you remember that there is a shortcut that does what you want, but its one of those things you don’t need to do often enough to remember the command.

I have changed how I use my Chromebook since I got it & took it out of the box. At first I wanted to try different Android apps and experience the differences in using an app on the Chromebook versus using the same Android app on my phone. As time passed and I got more comfortable using a Chromebook, I uninstalled some of the apps for Twitter, email, and other social type apps. My Chromebook has now turned into a device I can go to when I need or want time away from news, tweets, and just have some me time. I can of course go to gmail.com in the Chrome browser to read or send mail, there’s just nothing bothering me that I have five new email messages or three new mentions. When I’m using my Chromebook with headphones or a headset plugged in, all of that stuff can just wait.

Just like many things I can choose how I do things. Using the Chrome browser I can go to Netflix and watch a show. I can also install the Android Netflix app and watch something that way. It gives me freedom to do things my way, after all, as I mentioned earlier, its a great way to have some me time.

The Samsung Chromebook Plus has two USB C ports, a standard headphone jack, and a MicroSD card slot. It has built in WiFi and thanks to the variety of things one can do with a USB C port, I use a Ethernet or wired network connection. There are many things you can add using USB C to add options to how you use a Chromebook. I also have a hub which has three standard USB ports and a Ethernet port. That makes it easy to use a wired USB headset and connect a flash drive, external hard drive or other devices and only use one of the two USB C ports on this Chromebook.

So if there are things you usually do or are willing to do in a browser, a Chromebook might be for you. The same extensions for Chrome on your PC are available for Chrome on a Chromebook. I use LastPass, U Block Orgin, and other extensions on the Chromebook too. One of the nice features, if you use Chrome on your PC, its super easy to sync your settings, extensions, and bookmarks between the two devices.

I’m very happy with the accessibility, general use and features of this Chromebook. It gets frequent updates to the OS, doesn’t have the problem of a virus or malware one might get on a PC and if should anything ever mess up your Chromebook it has a Power Wash feature which very quickly resets your Chromebook to factory defaults. Once you sign in again, all of your settings are there.

You can have multiple users, each person can have things their way, without it messing with anyone Else’s perfect layout and preferences.

There are allot of online tutorials, guides, and support for Chromebooks. Lots of other Chromebook users willing to help. So even though you might use a Chromebook for “my time” you don’t have to be alone if you need some help.

There are many great resources online, a simple Google search will likely find what you need, but here is one of many places to help you get started.

http://www.perkinselearning.org/technology/posts/using-chromevox-your-chomebook-video-tutorials

Backing Up Application Data

As we are getting closer to the date the Spring 2018 Windows 10 update roll out starts, April 10, 2018 there is one area of backing up your data you might not know about.
Its the Applications Data folder in Windows 10. This is where your programs keep their settings and data files.
Having a copy of these folders sure makes things get back to normal a bit faster after doing a fresh install.

Its just a matter of after the reinstall process is done, going to where you store your backed up data, USB flash drive, external hard drive, etc.. copy those data files back onto your computer and you are set. Well, of course after you install the program again 🙂 .

There are other folders that are actually quite large where these data folders are stored that we don’t want to backup & restore, such as the Microsoft folder.

I’m going to walk through this as if I was copying the folders from my computer. The three main data folders that I want from my computer are the Mozilla folder which has Firefox settings, bookmarks, & add-ons, Thunderbird folder, & TwBlue. To go to where these folders are stored press the windows key and type: “%appdata%” without the quotes and press enter.

Through the magic of Microsoft you are now in the roaming folder.
It helps to not be currently using the programs for which you are going to copy their data folders, some programs don’t like that.

The first one on my computer I want to copy is the Mozilla folder, just arrow down to Mozilla and press control c to copy.
Either press windows key and r to enter the drive you want to go to & save this folder or press Windows key and e to open File Explorer, arrow to the drive you want and press enter. Once you are at your external drive, press control v to paste the folder. I repeat that for the Thunderbird and the TWBlue folders.

Should the time come that I need to wipe the drive and install Windows 10 from a USB Flash Drive and start over, having these program data folders makes getting up and going again faster.

If that time comes, its just a matter of reversing the steps. Go to your external drive, copy the data folders. Press Windows key and r. Type in %appdata% and press enter.
Unless you have already installed, as in my example, Firefox, Thunderbird, and TWBlue, you shouldn’t see any of those folders in the Roaming folder after a fresh install of Windows. So just paste the data folders from your external drive in the folder.
After you install the programs again, there will be all of the settings for Firefox and the other programs I mentioned in the example of my computer.

After a fresh install of Windows 10, if you installed Firefox and the other programs before copying the data folders from your external drive, just delete the data folders for each program that are in the roaming %appdata% folder. Its not a good idea to copy your backed up data folders over existing data folders, sometimes you get a little of this and some of that which causes problems.

Knowing about the folder that %appdata% takes you two can also be handy if you ever want to clear out a program’s settings and just start over from scratch. You could delete the data folders for Mozilla etc.. and the next time you run Firefox, it will recreate its data folder and act like you just installed for the first time.

There is allot of hidden and system stuff in the Microsoft data folder, so its best to just leave that one alone.

Accessible Android Apps March 2018

These are the apps that I’m using on my LG G6, which is still running Android 7.0 but I’ve heard sometime it’ll have Android 8.1.
I use a combination of an external keyboard (Logitech K380) and touch to do what I need or want to do.
That combination of options makes these apps accessible to me, so that is why I consider them accessible. Everyone is different & has different needs, so your mileage may vary.
I post this list of apps that I’m using for a couple of reasons. The first is for those either new to Android and looking for some accessible apps to install, or those looking to see what other people are using, maybe someone looking to try a different app. The other is if I ever have to do a factory reset on my phone, I’ve got a list of my installed apps online with links to the play store. I use the My App List app, which you’ll find below to generate the list.
If I can be of any assistance, you can contact me at @blindbites on twitter or steve@blindbites.com via email.

Amazon Alexa
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.amazon.dee.app

AquaMail
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.kman.AquaMail

AquaMail Pro Unlocker
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.kman.AquaMail.UnlockerMarket

Authenticator
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lastpass.authenticator

Be My Eyes
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bemyeyes.bemyeyes

Calendar
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.calendar

Clipper Sync Plugin
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.clippersync.android.plugin

Clipper+
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=fi.rojekti.clipper

Files Go
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.nbu.files

Find My Device
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.adm

Freemotion change
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.visionandroid.apps.motionsensor

Google Opinion Rewards
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.paidtasks

Google Play Books
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.books

Home
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.chromecast.app

iHeartRadio
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.clearchannel.iheartradio.controller

Keep
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.keep

KNFB Reader
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sensotec.knfbreader

LastPass
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lastpass.lpandroid

Lyft
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=me.lyft.android

MacroDroid
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.arlosoft.macrodroid

Music Folder Player Full
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=de.zorillasoft.musicfolderplayer.donate

My App List
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.projectsexception.myapplist

Netflix
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.netflix.mediaclient

NFC Labeler
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=hu.gersoft.nfclabeler

Nova Launcher
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.teslacoilsw.launcher

Nova Launcher Prime
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.teslacoilsw.launcher.prime

OneDrive
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.microsoft.skydrive

ParcelTrack
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.uberblic.parceltrack

Pocket Casts
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=au.com.shiftyjelly.pocketcasts

Reply
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.area120.reply

SensorPush
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.cousins_sears.beaconthermometer

Shouter
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bhkapps.proshouter

Skype Lite
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.skype.m2

Storm Radar
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.twc.radar

TapTapSee
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.msearcher.taptapsee.android

Trusted Contacts
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.emergencyassist

TuneIn Radio Pro
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=radiotime.player

Tweetings
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.dwdesign.tweetings

Uber
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ubercab

Uber Eats
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ubercab.eats

VLC
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.videolan.vlc

Voice
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.googlevoice

Shared by ‘My App List’ https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.projectsexception.myapplist

Info On Missouri Blind Pension Lawsuit Agreement

Below are links & info I tweeted this morning in reference to the news I found on a proposed agreement in the Missouri Blind Pension lawsuit.

MO Blind Pension Lawsuit Agreement – FOX 14 TV Joplin
http://www.fox14tv.com/story/37626234/mo-blind-pension-lawsuit-agreement

Here is the proposed agreement in the Missouri Blind Pension Lawsuit that both parties will ask to be approved on March 30, 2018 https://dss.mo.gov/pdfs/class-action-settlement-agreement-022818.pdf

From what I understand by reading the proposed agreement, no later than August 1, 2018 DFS will mail claim letters to all who are eligible. I’m not a legal scholar but there is some text about those eligible not needing to return a claim form, maybe someone more knowledgeable will confirm that wording. Also DFS will post electronic copies of the mailed letters on their web site. I also read that all payments are to be made before May 15, 2019.

 

Update:
This clears up some questions I had earlier about the Missouri Blind Pension Agreement.
State, blind Missourians settle lengthy fight over payments
http://www.newstribune.com/news/missouri/story/2018/mar/01/state-blind-missourians-settle-lengthy-fight-over-payments/715615/

Be My Eyes Introducing Specialized Help

I received an email announcing a new service from Be My Eyes and wanted to share it with everyone. Maybe you work for a company that would like to be involved in this great service.

 

// Handheld iPhone displays the Be My Eyes app’s Specialized Help feature.

 

Introducing Specialized Help

We are thrilled to announce the newest feature in the Be My Eyes app: Specialized Help – a better way to connect with businesses and organizations when you need assistance with their products or services.

//

 

Hi Steve,

As you know, Be My Eyes is here to help you tackle a wide range of visual challenges as you go about your day. Until today, Be My Eyes has randomly connected you to a volunteer to solve daily tasks. Some tasks, however, require specialized assistance.

Contacting customer support through email or by phone isn’t always ideal. Direct communication with a business’s customer support agent could be a more vision-friendly alternative and less time consuming for you. If someone from the company could see the issue in real time, issues with their products or services could be resolved more efficiently.

So we’ve strategized a way to better assist you: enlisting the help of representatives from companies whose products you use all the time. It’s our sincere pleasure to introduce Specialized Help. This new feature means that a trained company representative is available to answer questions or help you tackle issues with speed and in-depth solutions. Maybe you need help figuring out how to use an unfamiliar product, or you might want to interact on a company’s app or website while on the phone with their representative. With Specialized Help, it’s easy to get in touch with businesses and organizations when you encounter a challenge with their products or services. And as always, it’s completely free.

The next time you update your Be My Eyes app, there will be a second button added to the main screen to take you to the Specialized Help Menu. Clicking “Specialized Help” will lead you to the list of companies with representatives available to answer your call and assist you through a live video connection. Each business profile will include descriptions of their services, hours of operation, and supported languages.

// Handheld iPhone displays the Microsoft company page under Specialized Help

 

Microsoft is first to join

Microsoft is the first company joining our platform to offer Specialized Help and maintains their mission to empower every person on the planet to achieve more. Included in that mission is a program aimed at offering free technical support to the disability community – Microsoft Disability Answer Desk.

*“Be My Eyes provides a new and innovative way for our customers to get technical support,”* said Neil Barnett, Director Disability Answer Desk, Microsoft. *“With a simple tap, customers can access the Disability Answer Desk from their phone to get the help they need with Microsoft products and services.”*

Be My Eyes is on a journey with Microsoft to help more people utilize technology as a means of empowerment to achieve more in their daily lives. Starting today, Microsoft agents will be available through Be My Eyes Specialized Help to users in *Australia, Canada, UK, Hong Kong, Ireland, India, Malaysia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, South Africa and the United States* offering assistance in English. If you need help with Windows or Office products just give them a call.

//

 

Who Would You Like Us to Bring Onboard Specialized Help?

At the present moment, you have the option to contact Microsoft. Improving the customer service experience takes time, rest assured, but more companies from a variety of fields will join the Specialized Help platform soon. Your feedback is of tremendous value to us. If there are businesses and organizations that you may seek assistance from and would like them to a part of the Specialized Help platform, please let us know, and we will do our best to include them. You can simply respond to this email or write us at info@bemyeyes.com <mailto:info@bemyeyes.com>. It is our hope that Specialized Help will provide a better way to connect you with businesses and organizations.

Best regards,
Hans Jørgen Wiberg, Be My Eyes Founder

 

My Chromebook Accessories

Chromebook Accessories
Below are items I have purchased as accessories to my Samsung Chromebook Plus. They are items that either make things easier or just are helpful to have.

This is just my personal opinion, not anything based on personal use. There are USB Flash Drives from several brands that have a USB C connection on them. If you read the reviews for each brand, there is one thing in common. Several reports of part of the drive’s case breaking off after a short time. So I decided to just use a regular USB 3.0 Flash Drive and use an adapter so it will connect with a USB C port.

All of the items below were purchased at Amazon.com. The shortened links will take you to the product page for each item. I’ve tested all of the links, but just in case one doesn’t work for you, a search of the item name should help you find the item. Prices are current as of the day this is posted.

AmazonBasics USB 3.1 Type-C to 3 Port USB Hub with Ethernet Adapter.

$23.99
https://goo.gl/fygEg3

This hub has three regular USB connections on top, along with an Ethernet connection on one end, and on the other end is a wire with a USB C connector on it. This will allow you to use a wired network connection with your Chromebook along with connecting three USB devices all from one USB C port.
Often I will have my wired headset (see below) into one of the USB ports on top and maybe a Flash Drive if I need to copy a file to or from my Chromebook.

AUKEY USB C Adapter, USB C to USB 3.0 Adapter 2 Pack
$7.49
https://goo.gl/fiCREK

These will attach to the end of a regular USB Flash Drive and will let you plug it into a USB C port.

Logitech USB Headset H390 with Noise Cancelling Mic
$32.95
https://goo.gl/j1sDYQ

I use this headset with the hub I mentioned above. Its great for Skype calls or voice conversations on my Chromebook. The Chromebook I have along with most newer models available will run Android apps. Skype is also available from their web site interface, which is very accessible.

USB C to HDMI Adapter (4K@60Hz) by uni
$19.99
https://goo.gl/F4KxeY

This will let me connect my Chromebook to a larger monitor or television. I don’t do that often. The main reason I bought this, if I ever need my Wife to look at something on the screen for me, I can put it on a larger display which makes it easier for her to see.

HSEOK Laptop Sleeve Case for 13-13.3 Inch
$9.99
https://goo.gl/hnKQLA

This is the sleeve I put my Chromebook in when I take it out of the house. My Chromebook Plus fits in there and its not so tight that one has to stretch the case in order to close the zippers but at the same time there isn’t so much free room inside that the Chromebook is going to be in constant motion. Its just right. There is an outside zippered pocket that has plenty of room for your charger, a few extra cables, the hub, the HDMI adapter and a few USB drives.

Sandisk Ultra 128GB Micro SDXC UHS-I Card with Adapter.
$39.99
https://goo.gl/2Ebn59

Most modern Chromebooks will accept up to a 256 GB Micro SD card but for my needs the 128 GB cards are just fine. There is a big price difference between the 128 GB and the 256 GB cards and for now, I’ve got plenty of space available on my smaller 128 GB card.

If you have any questions or if I can be of any further help, please feel free to send an email to: “steve@blindbites.com”

Accessible Android Apps I’m Using & A Rant About Accessibility

Below is a list of apps that I’m currently using with my LG G6. As of when I’m writing this, my phone is still running Android 7.0.
I use a combination of touch and an external bluetooth keyboard (Logitech K380) and that is what makes these apps accessible to me.

I want to take a moment and talk about some thoughts and beliefs I’ve seen going around lately as I think this is important.
First, as a person who is totally blind I believe that both smartphone platforms, Android & IOS are accessible. Accessible can mean many things to different people. That is because we all have abilities and skills that may vary as we are all different in one way or another.
That in no way indicates that one person is better than another because they have a skill somebody else doesn’t have, its just part of what makes us individuals.

I’ve read many messages and tweets from a person who has been using one smartphone platform for many years, then they briefly try to use the other one. Some people will think they should be able to use the same way of interacting with the phone as they are used to with their own device. The person will soon become frustrated as this other device doesn’t work the same. They’ll soon give up and declare the different device needs to be fixed before they would call it accessible or even useful. This goes both ways with Android & IOS, as I’ve seen it from both sides.

Just because they are both smartphones should not imply that they work the same. That would be like giving someone who has used one brand & model of coffee maker for the past five years, a different brand and model of coffee maker to use. The buttons are different, they do different things and if you use the thinking of, I pushed the top left button on my old coffee maker, I’ll just push the top button on this new coffee maker and it should do the same.

The person needs to take the time to learn how to use the new coffee maker as they realize pushing that top button does not give them the same results.
There are some people that choose to not learn how to use the new coffee maker and make a decision that it doesn’t work right and it needs to be fixed. There is no way a person could make coffee with this piece of junk.
They will tell people, Oh I used that coffee maker once, it doesn’t work, so I went back to my coffee maker I’ve been using for the past five years, it works great and is accessible.

However, that coffee maker they say is accessible, may not be accessible to you. Maybe you cannot lift your hands high enough to press the buttons, or maybe you don’t have the feeling in your fingers to know if you pushed the button or not. The person claiming it is accessible doesn’t know that it is not that way for you.
It takes time and learning to use something different. To use something different from what you are used to and not learn how to work with the new device then claim it doesn’t work is not fair to others as they read your comments and that person isn’t being fair to them self.

One last example and I’ll end this rant.

A person has been driving a car with automatic transmission for the past 10 years. Their car needs some repair and while their car is in the shop, you loan them your car that has manual transmission. Its the car you have been driving for the past ten years.
Your friend has never driven a car with manual transmission and they think it should work just like their car with automatic transmission does. They don’t ask any questions or check to see if there is anything different they need to do.
They get in the car with manual transmission, turn the key and the engine doesn’t start. They start pushing the gas pedal, moving levers and switches and can’t get the car running. After several tries and several words, they get the engine started but don’t know what this stick coming out of the floor is used for. They take another 10 minutes as steam is rising from their ears, bang their fists on the dash, and say this thing doesn’t work. It isn’t accessible and has a long way to go before it would be useful. They turn the car off, remove the keys and go inside.

This is what I’ve been reading lately in email and on Twitter and this sort of thinking needs to stop.

Now on with the apps that I’m using.

Allo
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.fireball

Amazon Alexa
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.amazon.dee.app

AquaMail
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.kman.AquaMail

AquaMail Pro Unlocker
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.kman.AquaMail.UnlockerMarket

Authenticator
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lastpass.authenticator

Be My Eyes
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bemyeyes.bemyeyes

Calendar
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.calendar

Clipper Sync Plugin
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.clippersync.android.plugin

Clipper+
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=fi.rojekti.clipper

Files Go
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.nbu.files

Find My Device
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.adm

Freemotion change
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.visionandroid.apps.motionsensor

Google Opinion Rewards
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.paidtasks

iHeartRadio
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.clearchannel.iheartradio.controller

Keep
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.keep

KNFB Reader
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sensotec.knfbreader

LastPass
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lastpass.lpandroid

Lyft
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=me.lyft.android

MacroDroid
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.arlosoft.macrodroid

Music Folder Player Full
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=de.zorillasoft.musicfolderplayer.donate

My App List
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.projectsexception.myapplist

Netflix
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.netflix.mediaclient

NFC Labeler
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=hu.gersoft.nfclabeler

Nova Launcher
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.teslacoilsw.launcher

Nova Launcher Prime
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.teslacoilsw.launcher.prime

OneDrive
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.microsoft.skydrive

ParcelTrack
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.uberblic.parceltrack

Pocket Casts
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=au.com.shiftyjelly.pocketcasts

RideKCFreedom
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mtdata.ridekcfreedom

Shouter
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bhkapps.proshouter

Skype Lite
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.skype.m2

TapTapSee
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.msearcher.taptapsee.android

Trusted Contacts
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.emergencyassist

TuneIn Radio Pro
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=radiotime.player

Tweetings
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.dwdesign.tweetings

Uber
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ubercab

Uber Eats
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ubercab.eats

VLC
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.videolan.vlc

Voice
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.googlevoice

Weather Timeline
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.samruston.weather

Shared by ‘My App List’ https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.projectsexception.myapplist

A Request To Online Sources Of Tech News & Information

My Request To Popular Tech Sources

I have a request for places like Twit.tv, The Verge, arstechnica, and other popular sources for tech information. Produce a few articles or segments now and then about the technology making lives better for people with a disability.
I’m not asking for a weekly or even monthly item, but maybe focus on one area of disability a couple times a year.

This is why I’m asking. There was a time in my life when I did not have a disability. Contrary to what some out there may think, not every person who is blind was born that way.
I had a job at a small alarm company here in Kansas City. I usually worked the midnight shift and things were often pretty quiet around 4 AM, especially on a Sunday morning. I would have the television on, just for some background noise, as I was the only person in the office at that hour.

I remember a early morning, community interest show one Sunday. They interviewed a local guy who is blind and showed how he could still use a computer. Remember, at the time I had 20/20 vision and no disabilities.

That show stuck in my head, as I was a long time computer geek. I said to myself, if I ever become blind, at least I’ll still be able to use a computer, life won’t be so bad.

Fast forward about two years and I’m in the emergency room after going from perfect eyesight without glasses, to having no vision in one eye. That happened in less than twenty four hours. Another twelve hours or so later and I was totally blind in both eyes.

The one thing that stuck in my mind was that early morning community interest show and I told myself, you can still use a computer, life isn’t so bad.

That was all twenty four years ago and while the two rare forms of lymphoma I had back in 1994 are long gone, I’m still totally blind and am still using a computer. Yes, life isn’t that bad.

So I’m asking these popular sources of technology information to help share info from time to time. There are many disabilities out there and technology that can help make life better for each category, even things for people who have more than one disability.

Maybe there will be someone like me, or a friend or family member who sees your article or episode and files it away in their brain until the time comes they can share it with someone.

This is an amazing time in history to have a disability. My focus of course is what I know and use. To live in a time when both smartphone platforms have free built-in accessibility services, broadcast television has tv shows that include a descriptive audio channel so I know what is happening visually in what I’m listening to. Even streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Video produce new shows & movies and include description for their content. Talking thermostats, blood pressure cuffs, thermometers, digital assistants like the Amazon Echo or Google home are all available.
I use many of the same smartphone apps that you use. I send & receive text messages, help whoever is driving navigate to our destination, and even sometimes make a phone call.

Many people who have a life changing event may not know of what is available. When I became blind in 1994, I didn’t know anything about being blind. I didn’t have any family members or friends who are blind. It was that one show that got me started and that is why I ask these sources of tech info to produce and share the information to help others.

Talkback’s Global Context Menu

Global Context Menu
I wanted to take a moment and show non android users the powerful options that are available in the Global Context Menu.
This is available from anywhere you are while using an Android device, assuming you are using Talkback.

To open it, just move down on the screen then move right. Some people make the gestures more difficult than they need to be. This doesn’t have to be a perfect 90 degree angle, Talkback is very forgiving. So move down the screen then without picking up your finger, move right.

you will hear

Global Context Menu.
These are the items available.

Read From Top
Read From Next Item
Repeat Last Utterance
Spell Last Utterance
Copy Last Utterance To Clipboard
Pause Feedback
Talkback Settings
Text To Speech Settings
Dim Screen

A couple very time saving items are accessing the Talkback settings or the Text To Speech settings. One could get there by going into the settings menu, then either to Accessibility and then to Talkback to get to its settings, but the Global Context Menu makes that easier to access. Its the same with Text To Speech.

Copy & Paste With Talkback

I helped someone with copy & paste using Talkback and just sharing the tip I sent. Hi,
Here’s what I do for copy and paste.
Have Talkback speak whatever you want to copy.
Open the global context menu with the down then right gesture. Double tap on copy last utterance to clipboard.
Go to wherever you want to paste the text that was just copied. For example a text message.
Double tap on the edit box as if you were going to type in there with the on screen keyboard. Open the local context menu with the up then right gesture.
The first item there is paste. Double tap on that and the text that was just copied will be pasted into the edit box.

The CAT User’s Manual

I saw this being passed around on twitter, its so great, I had to share it here.
I did spend some time trying to find the name of whoever wrote this great manual but did not find any name in other sites that had the same document. Just know it wasn’t me, as I’m only passing it along.

The CAT User’s Manual
CAT v. 7.0: Completely Autonomous Tester
User Installation and Documentation
CAT System Specifications
• User Friendly
• Mouse Driven
• Self Cleaning
• Energy Saving Standby Mode When Not In Use
• Self Portable Operation
• Dual Video
• Bi-directional Audio Input/Output
• Primary and secondary output ports: high-speed serial port for streaming data and standard parallel port for data blocks. • Auto search Routines for Input Data
• Autocracy for Output Bin
• Instant Transition (<2 nanoseconds) Between Standby and Full Power Mode • Manufactured by MOMCAT in batch mode

Production Details
After basic KIT construction, the unit undergoes six weeks of onside ROM programming and burn-in testing. Listed features are installed during this period. Since MOMCAT uses local suppliers, there may be variations between units. MOMCAT’s quality assurance may reject inferior units. Users may sometimes salvage rejected units. Beware of Far East clones. These may violate import restrictions.

Transporting Your CAT
A suitable transportation case should be used for transportation to the operating site. Failure to properly ship a CAT unit may result in loss or damage to the unit and serious injury to the user.

Installation Procedures
Upon receiving the CAT unit, the user should examine the unit to verify that all I/O channels are operational. Look for minor bugs in or on the system. Bugs are indicative of the MOMCAT production environment. The user may manually remove any bugs.
Bring the CAT to operation in an environment temperature at 20º C (±3º tolerance). Use a quiet room with the primary user(s) present. Open the transportation case and let the CAT unit auto exit. Initialize the self learning program catfind() by displaying the input bins. These should contain H2O (liquid state, room temperature, 99% purity) and dry energy pellets. Immediately afterwards, display the output bin.
If the user already has a CAT unit successfully installed, it may be possible to download BASIC routines to the new CAT. For the first day or two, the CAT will stay in self learning mode. When the learn buffer overflows, the CAT will auto switch to sleep() mode. This is normal. The MMU system will store the new information to permanent memory. After 72 hours, the CAT will be interacting with the operating environment.
The unit may be placed in direct sunlight. CAT units are operational in all axis: standing, sitting, or laying down. If all basic environment requirements are satisfied, the CAT system will produce a slight hum. This is normal.
A new CAT should not exit the primary site facility. Full portability comes after extensive burn in. Some users never let the CAT unit auto exit the site. The advantages are longer unit life and fewer bugs. Contact with pirate CAT units may lead to unplanned BATCH iteration. Contact with untested CATs may lead to virus infection. If allowed to exit, some CAT units may try to port across a street. Fatal errors may happen. If you decide to let your CAT out, it should have a READ_ME.TXT file with a system address and URL which identifies the host site.
Your CAT should have a system name. The name may need to be reinitialized repeatedly until the system can read it correctly. This lets you issue voice commands to bring the unit to an online state. Many owners give their CATs a secret password as well. You can also get the CAT’s attention by booting the system. While this is effective, it is discouraged. Too much booting will abuse the system. Such units will sit across the room with its back to you.

Applications for Your CAT Unit
At present, there are few productivity applications for CAT. MOUSE is a killer app. This is pre-installed.
Many owners use their system for game playing. CATs play best when they are young. Older units suffer a system timing decay which leads to reduced response and flexibility. Some CAT games are:
• CACHE: The CAT will CACHE a data string. Similar to the K9 unit game, but the object must be smaller.
• JUMP: Move the data string through the air. The CAT unit will reach new heights of operation.
• MIRROR: Place the unit in front of a mirror and watch it attempt to parse itself. Some units may ESCape. Reboot the system by calling its name.
• CHASE: Played between two CAT units or a CAT and a K9 unit. Units take turns as one is the data and the other attempts to parse it. • SING: Offer fishy data code to elicit a range of audio output. • BUGHUNT: Some CAT units are very efficient bug hunters.

Maintenance
• CATs will self-recharge. This takes 20 hours in a 24 hour cycle.
• CATs are self cleaning and require little user maintenance. Do not clean the unit with alcohol or benzine-based solvents. This may lead to a violent explosion.
• A CAT unit should be taken once a year to a VET (Very Expensive Technician) for a system checkup.
• Do not attempt to open a CAT. There are no user serviceable parts inside. If a unit emits strange smells or sounds, it should be serviced immediately by a VET.
• You may examine the rear of the CAT unit to determine if it has a male or female scuzzy port. CATs with a male port may emit a non-toxic aerosol. The VET can remove this component. CATs with female ports are plagued by periodic heating problems. The VET can fix this permanently by removing an internal part. Such systems run unix.
• In senior CAT units, male scuzzy ports can become blocked, leading to extensive VET visits and serious performance limitations.

Warning Notices
• CAT systems are user-friendly. However, in certain documented situations, a CAT may pose a danger to the user. Repeated jamming or obstruction of I/O ports may lead to deployment of auto-defense systems. Never attempt a first strike on a CAT system. Its CPU clock rate made to milspecs and thus classified, but JANE’S FIGHTING FELINES notes that a unit was seen by ham radio operators to be apparently moving at 500 mHz. Twin D-shaped five-pin spike connectors have an average seek rate of 3 nanoseconds. The manufacturer is not responsible for injuries to the user. These spike connectors require monthly maintenance to avoid damage to site furniture. • Do not poke anything into the CAT’s I/O ports. CAT may BYTE.
• In dry, cold weather, a surface electrostatic charge may build up. To avoid electric shock, stand on an insulated surface. • Do not operate the CAT above water. This may lead to end-user damage. • Carry a CAT firmly. Do not swing it by its “tail”.
• The self-programming feature of the CAT unit may introduce functions that are not user-friendly. For example, the CAT will quickly associate display of the transportation case with a trip to the VET or the offsite storage facility. In such instances, the CAT will self-initiate the ESCAPE mode. This requires the user to employ SEEK and CAPTURE programs to reestablish control of the CAT in order to place it in the transportion case.

Unit Service Life
• As CATs become older, the learn program will recognize every situation. The CAT may become too smart for its own good.
• CATs like to have their own toys. They often have hobbies, such as bird watching or studying tropical fish.
• If you properly care for your CAT, it will give you years of loyal service. Many users get a second unit. Most users don’t need the extra capacity, but they enjoy the ability to run complex simulation games.

Downtime Storage
If the user will be absent from the host site for an extended period, provision for CAT maintainence must be provided. Options are:
• Offsite storage. This may cause errors in user-associated CAT programs. Some reprogramming may be required.
• Onsite maintainence by contractors. Contractors must have full access to the host site. They should provide full I/O service to the CAT and forbidden to boot the system.

Lifetime Warranty
• The CAT unit is guaranteed against catastrophic failure. Nine coupons are included.
• If the unit operates in networks that experience heavy traffic, some units may use all nine coupons in one confrontation. This can lead to system failure.

Documented Problems
• The Ctrl key on many CAT units is defective. This may lead to serious command-and-control problems.
• Do not install a BIRD unit at a site which has an operational CAT unit. These systems are not compatible. The BIRD unit may be erased permanently.
• The CAT unit’s self-cleaning feature has a capacity limitation. The unit’s recycle bin eventually fills and then empties without warning.
• CAT units have an internal clock. These normally initialize automatic programs (CLEAN, etc.) These cannot be reset by the user. The internal alarm clock often goes off 30 minutes before the user’s alarm clock.

System Features
• Models = Main frame, desktop and laptop models (smallest footprint in the industry). Available in 15 inch, 17 inch, and 19 inch sizes. • Interface = Touch sensitive interface for maximum user friendliness. • Memory = Not much. Upgrades available real soon now.
• Expected Lifetime = 15 years with ± 72 months (although 20 years are common). • Weight = 3-6 kilograms without optional cables.
• Speed = 3 nanoseconds search/find with self-uprighting supertwist technology.
• Color Graphics = Either paper white, monochrome (black/white), 64 grey shades, or maximum of 16 million colors with 40 terrabits of high resolution floating point pixels. • Sound Chip = 16 octaves, digital MIDI output (MI/OU).
• Power Consumpution = 250 grams protein daily (2 micrograms per second.) • Operating Range = -30º to +45º C (-22º to 105º)
• Vibration = 5-500 Hz, one octave/min, dwell at all resonance points.

Contacting CAT Technical Support
It’s not a bug, it’s a flea. Our highly trained technicians are ready to help you. As soon as they wake up from their nap.

A Few Christmas Favorites

Here are a few of my favorite Christmas things.

This song has very special meaning to me. A few years ago, this wonderful lady & musician I followed on Facebook asked for suggestions for Christmas songs for her and her Sister to record.
I told her that with her voice, Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas would sound wonderful.
A couple of weeks later, I logged on to FB and had a notice saying this song is dedicated to Steve Clark, because he asked for it. Merry Christmas Susan & Caroline, wherever you are and thank you. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6WTF3ATEWEE

This song has a great story behind it. Its one that everyone needs to hear, especially in times of conflict. The lesson can apply to more than just those at war. Christmas In The Trenches

I am a very silly person, it is what keeps me still a kid at 45 years old. This movie is one of my favorites. It has things like a penguin named Martini, who doesn’t like to be shaken or stirred. People with names like Richard Stands, who thought the Pledge Of Allegiance was about him. Another person named Round John Virgin and Olive, the dog even has a pet flea named Fido. Olive, The Other Reindeer

As a kid born in 1972, the Muppets were a part of my life. I have memories of laying on the floor in front of the television watching The Muppet Show.
I remember when A Muppet Family Christmas was on television. Pay attention at the end to the guy who comes in to do dishes, its Jim Henson. That part always brings a few tears to my eyes. A Muppet Family Christmas

 

Due to a high level of spam on comments, I’ve had to turn those off.
If you would like to contact me, send email to:
“steve@blindbites.com”

My First Chromebook – What I’ve learned

My First Chromebook

I recently got a Samsung Chromebook Plus and I am loving it more each day I learn to use it.

This, as with many things, isn’t for every person. It is basically the Google Chrome Browser inside a laptop. The difference between a Chromebook and running the Chrome Browser on your desktop or laptop is the Chromebook is much more secure.
You are also in a limited environment which is part of what makes it more secure than running Chrome on Windows or a Mac.
There isn’t the chance to get a virus or malware as easy as on a computer. If something gets messed up on your Chromebook, its very easy to reset it to factory settings, then once you log in again, all of your settings are there.

Current model Chromebooks will also run most Android apps.
One way to test if you might like a Chromebook is to spend time only using the Chrome Browser on your computer.

There is a bit of a learning curve involved, but its the same with anything new and different. Don’t be one of those people who uses commands from one platform on another platform, then complain it doesn’t work the same. You can’t use the same commands for Windows 10 on a MacBook. You can’t use your Samsung TV remote on your LG TV.

I’ve been watching Netflix, streaming audio, getting weather information from my favorite app I use on my phone, using Aqua Mail to send & receive email, etc…
My Chromebook has a USB C port, microsd card slot, headphone jack and it has a touch screen.

There are lots of tutorials and guides out there. Here are a few I’ve collected in my learning process, which by the way is just getting started. I wanted to share what I’ve found so far.

First a few keyboard commands I’ve found to be very helpful.
When you hear reference to the search key, it is the same as the caps lock key on a regular keyboard.
If you press the search key twice, it will lock the key so you can then use just the web page navigation keys when browsing a web site. Press the search key twice again, to toggle it off.

Listen to what ChromeVox is telling you when navigating to items. You might hear it say to press search and space bar to enter text or press search and enter to click or activate an item.

If after you login and don’t seem to be finding the Chrome Browser, try opening a new tab by pressing Control t.

One way of getting to the Chrome Book settings is to press control shift backspace.
That will take you to the section to delete data, but if you press the escape key, you will be in the settings.

Here are some more ways of getting to settings, thanks to some helpful people online.
Type:
chrome://settings/
in the OmnyBar
(The address bar)
NOTE:
chrome://extensions
will also get you to your extensions.
you can also tap “alt” and press up/down until you hear “settings”.

 

To get to the shelf area at the bottom where there are items for the launcher, chrome, docs etc is to press alt shift l. You might need to press the tab key or press the search key and an arrow key to move around. You’ll just have to find what works best for you.

If you have a current Android phone you can use it to login to your Chromebook after everything is setup. There will be more info provided by ChromeVox. This is in the settings section.

Remember, you are not going to break anything by messing up a setting. Don’t be afraid to power wash and reset it to factory defaults if something stops working.

Getting Started with ChromeVox on Chrome OS
http://www.chromevox.com/chromeos/getting_started.html

Using ChromeVox on your Chromebook: Fundamentals

Using ChromeVox on your Chromebook: Intermediate Skills

Master Chrome OS With These Chromebook Keyboard Shortcuts
https://www.howtogeek.com/189324/master-chrome-os-with-these-chromebook-keyboard-shortcuts/

Here’s Every Chromebook Shortcut You’ll Ever Need
http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/heres-every-chromebook-shortcut-youll-ever-need/

40 Chromebook tips for maximum productivity
https://www.computerworld.com/article/3237230/chromebooks/chromebook-tips-for-maximum-productivity.html

If you have any questions or suggestions, send an email to: steve@blindbites.com.

 

A Dollar Can Go A Long Way

A Dollar Can Go A Long Way

It seems like everybody and their group are asking for donations these days. Here is some information on two places I make a monthly donation to, and if you are someone who has a couple of extra dollars at the end of the month, maybe you can do the same. I’m not asking you to go broke helping others, just if you want to help make a difference and you are able to do so, just consider.

TWBlue
There are very few Twitter clients for Windows that are accessible to people like myself, who are blind and use screen reading software. Sure, there are many Twitter clients for Windows, but only a few work well with screen reading software.
My choice of clients is TWBlue. The developers are open to user requests and feedback. Just to show a few examples of this, I sent a tweet to the TWBlue developers asking if there could be an option to make a monthly donation. They already had things setup for a one time donation and for some reason it wasn’t displaying in English. About an hour later I got a reply saying the option for a monthly donation was now in the form and it would now display in my language.

I and many others asked them if they could provide an easy way to use a snapshot version of TW Blue so we can experience recent updates and also help provide feedback with issues in the software that are found. This request was answered just a few days later and they now offer a download of the program with recent updates but may not be ready for prime time.
This is the kind of developer I like to support when I can. I’m not wealthy, but I happen to have a couple of dollars that I can send their way to help with the behind the scenes cost of developing software. I want to help keep this great accessible program going for years to come.
So if you are in a position where you want to help by donating a dollar a month, or for those who can, even more, consider this great and needed project. You can setup a monthly or even just a one time donation at the following link. https://twblue.es/donate/

NVDA
The other place I send a dollar or two each month is to the developers of a wonderful and free screen reading program. There are non-free options out there but they are expensive, requiring many people to get a state agency to purchase the program and to purchase updates.
NVDA or Non Visual Desktop Access is totally free. They receive donations that help with the costs involved in developing the program, just as with TWBlue.
Many people who are blind don’t have $895 to purchase commercial screen reading software and have to pay ongoing fees for updates. NVDA is totally free and is used by people in many countries. It is updated several times each year and new features are always being added, even features that those commercial screen reading programs haven’t quite figured out just yet.
So, again, even a dollar or two will help. You can setup a donation for NVDA by going to: https://www.nvaccess.org/donate/

You can download TWBlue at:
https://twblue.es/

You can download NVDA at:
https://www.nvaccess.org/

Please, there is no need to feel bad if you can’t make a monthly or even a one time donation. Both of these programs are free. One needs to take care of things at home before you can be able to send money to others, I understand that. You can still help by sharing this information with others. Maybe you’ll help someone discover TWBlue or NVDA and enhance someone else’s life.

An Open Letter To The Blind Community

The following was written by a friend and I totally agree.
Steve

An Open Letter To The Blind Community

As a member of the blind community, I wanted to weigh in on this issue that Apple had with the developer of Blindfold games.

It is my understanding that Apple simply wished for the developer to adhere to their App store guidelines. I am going to take an educated guess that these guidelines were probably known upon the onset of this app relationship with Apple. Even if they weren’t, they are still the guidelines that Apple has put forth. When you get a job or go to school, you have rules to uphold. Why is it that we can’t see ther easoning for upholding such guidelines that Apple and other company’s may have in place?

It is my opinion that we as VI members of society should not have special sets of rules applied to us simply because we want to play accessible games. Rather than Apple having to bow down and bend over to make these games continue to be available to us, the developer should have simply agreed to do the right thing. From a legal standpoint doing the right thing is abiding by the wishes of your contractors or those who agree to house your games.

For blind people to jump on this band wagon so that they can continue to play games because this developer refuses to adhere to Apple’s wishes is appalling to me. One of these days, people are going to stop bending because of the blind card. Keep that in mind when you shout and scream for Apple and other organizations to bend over for you. Someday the issue is going to be more important and they are going to be tired of giving in.

Apple has always been a big proponent of accessibility for the blind. Remember this the next time you want spoon fed like a child.

April

Accessible Android Apps November 2017

Below is a list of accessible apps that I am using on my LG G6.
I use a combination of either touch or a Bluetooth keyboard to interact with the apps on my phone.
I can do what I want in these apps, so I consider them accessible, at least for me. Your mileage may vary.
I use a Logitech K380 Bluetooth keyboard.
Note the app listed below as “Authenticator” is the LastPass app to verify its you logging in on a new device. Its very accessible to use but a pain to setup, I got help with that.

Allo
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.fireball

Amazon Alexa
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.amazon.dee.app

AquaMail
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.kman.AquaMail

AquaMail Pro Unlocker
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.kman.AquaMail.UnlockerMarket

Authenticator
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lastpass.authenticator

Be My Eyes
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bemyeyes.bemyeyes

Calendar
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.calendar

Clipper Sync Plugin
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.clippersync.android.plugin

Clipper+
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=fi.rojekti.clipper

Files Go
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.nbu.files

Freemotion change
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.visionandroid.apps.motionsensor

Google Opinion Rewards
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.paidtasks

Google TalkBack
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.marvin.talkback&hl=en

Google Text-to-speech
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.tts&hl=en

iHeartRadio
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.clearchannel.iheartradio.controller

KNFB Reader
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sensotec.knfbreader

LastPass
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lastpass.lpandroid

Lyft
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=me.lyft.android

MacroDroid
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.arlosoft.macrodroid

Music Folder Player Full
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=de.zorillasoft.musicfolderplayer.donate

My App List
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.projectsexception.myapplist

Netflix
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.netflix.mediaclient

NFC Labeler
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=hu.gersoft.nfclabeler

Nova Launcher
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.teslacoilsw.launcher

Nova Launcher Prime
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.teslacoilsw.launcher.prime

OneDrive
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.microsoft.skydrive

ParcelTrack
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.uberblic.parceltrack

Pocket Casts
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=au.com.shiftyjelly.pocketcasts

RideKCFreedom
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mtdata.ridekcfreedom

Shouter
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bhkapps.proshouter

TapTapSee
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.msearcher.taptapsee.android

Trusted Contacts
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.emergencyassist

TuneIn Radio Pro
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=radiotime.player

Tweetings
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.dwdesign.tweetings

Uber
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ubercab

UberEATS
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ubercab.eats

VLC
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.videolan.vlc

Vocalizer Voices
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=es.codefactory.vocalizertts

Weather Timeline
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.samruston.weather

Here is a DropBox link to my collection of .m3u files that I use VLC to play on my phone. I keep them in a folder on my phone called AAA that way its always at the top. https://www.dropbox.com/s/ncwuvp7giwik7aq/AAA.zip?dl=0

Make Accessible Labels With NFC Tags
https://goo.gl/hyfi9n

Example of going to a link in Tweetings

I wrote this as a post to the Eyes-Free Google Group and thought I’d share the info on my blog for those who might be interested and are not on the Eyes-Free email list.

There was a discussion about the accessibility of Android Twitter apps and the ability to click on a link that is in a tweet.
The info below is what I sent to the list, so those who don’t use Tweetings, the app I use can get a look into how accessible clicking on a link is with Tweetings.

I thought I’d try to share the experience I have with Tweetings.

The contents of the tweet below was copied using the copy last utterance in TalkBack.

I’m not going to promise someone, it is this way in each and every tweet every single time, just an example of a tweet I opened.

I Opened Tweetings, opened the menu in the upper right corner and selected Jump To Top.
That is where that option is based on the layout I’m using.
I moved my finger down the list of tweets and heard this:

BlindBeader, New blog post: Your Fear is Not my Reality
blindbeader.wordpress.com/2017/10/21/you… #Disability #Employment #ND… less than a minute ago

I double tapped on that to open the tweet.
Talkback read the title and I started moving my finger down the screen.

New blog post: Your Fear is Not my Reality
blindbeader.wordpress.com/2017/10/21/you… #Disability #Employment #NDEAM

After reading that, TalkBack said Double Tap To Activate, Double Tap & Hold To Long Press.
Double Tapping on the text of the tweet opened the blog post in Chrome.

If I move further down the screen with my finger I hear the number of likes for this tweet.
Talkback reads:

3, Likes, Out of list
Then says Double Tap to Activate.
If I double tap on that, Tweetings opens a screen showing the 3 people who have liked it and info from their profile next to their name.

I used the back gesture to go back to the previous screen.

Moving down to the next item, TalkBack reads:
View on blindbeader.wordpress.com
and I hear Talkback say Double Tap To Activate.
Double tapping on the above info also took me to the blog post in Chrome.

I tried this with four other tweets that had a link to a web page and had the same experience.
Oh, forgot to mention, all of the details of the tweets were in a list.

Just sharing my experience,
Steve

Here is a link to Tweetings For Twitter on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.dwdesign.tweetings&hl=en

Here is a email address you can send a new message to & join the Eyes-Free Google Group. Its a list of people using Android phones, tablets & sometimes other devices. Its a great group of people with a wide range of devices and also a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. “eyes-free+subscribe@googlegroups.com”

List Of Accessible Android Apps October 2017

This is a list of accessible apps I’m currently using on my LG G6. I use a Logitech K380 keyboard along with touch with these apps. I am able to do what I need to do in these apps, so I consider them accessible, your mileage may vary.

Allo
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.fireball

Amazon Alexa
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.amazon.dee.app

AquaMail
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.kman.AquaMail

Be My Eyes
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bemyeyes.bemyeyes

Calendar
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.calendar

Clipper Sync Plugin
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.clippersync.android.plugin

Clipper+
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=fi.rojekti.clipper

Freemotion change
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.visionandroid.apps.motionsensor

Google Opinion Rewards
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.paidtasks

iHeartRadio
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.clearchannel.iheartradio.controller

KNFB Reader
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sensotec.knfbreader

LastPass
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lastpass.lpandroid

Lyft
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=me.lyft.android

MacroDroid
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.arlosoft.macrodroid

Music Folder Player Full
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=de.zorillasoft.musicfolderplayer.donate

My App List
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.projectsexception.myapplist

Netflix
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.netflix.mediaclient

NFC Labeler
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=hu.gersoft.nfclabeler

Nova Launcher
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.teslacoilsw.launcher

Nova Launcher Prime
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.teslacoilsw.launcher.prime

OneDrive
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.microsoft.skydrive

ParcelTrack
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.uberblic.parceltrack

Pocket Casts
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=au.com.shiftyjelly.pocketcasts

RideKCFreedom
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mtdata.ridekcfreedom

Shouter
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bhkapps.proshouter

TapTapSee
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.msearcher.taptapsee.android

Trusted Contacts
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.emergencyassist

Tweetings
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.dwdesign.tweetings

Uber
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ubercab

UberEATS
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ubercab.eats

VLC
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.videolan.vlc

Vocalizer Voices
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=es.codefactory.vocalizertts

Weather Timeline
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.samruston.weather

Shared by ‘My App List’
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.projectsexception.myapplist

A Brief Trial Of Hulu

A Brief Trial Of Hulu

Yesterday I did a brief trial of Hulu. I’m calling it brief because I encountered enough to know it isn’t a service for me.

I knew going in that Hulu doesn’t have television shows or movies that are described like Netflix and Amazon Video offers, so my disappointment isn’t related to that.

I created my trial account on the hulu web site then added the app to my Fire TV.

One thing that I noticed with the Hulu app on Fire TV is they offered an easy way to sign in, that I wish other apps would offer. Other than signing in the normal way with an email address and password, the Hulu App has an option to let you sign in on a computer and it gives you a code to enter on the web site.
The instant that I pressed enter from the web site, I could tell the app on Fire TV was activated.

Navigating the Hulu app worked the same as the Netflix app and the Fire TV. The exception with the Hulu app is only so many shows or movies were able to be in a list at a time. After that there is a more button. When you press select and down arrow, using the Fire TV remote, you hear nothing. There are items there, if I press select, something is selected but I have no idea what.
In the Netflix app and in Fire TV everything is available for you to scroll or arrow through, everything is spoken by Voice View.

The other big show stopper for me is trying to play previous seasons of a tv show. I can play the current season of The Simpsons or South Park just fine, but I couldn’t find a way in the Hulu app on Fire TV to do this.
I know its possible because its available in the Netflix app and also shows that are on Fire TV.

I felt like I was more restricted in what I could do using the Hulu app compared to what I can do with the Netflix app or content available on Fire TV.

Lastly, I tried to cancel my trial subscription on the Hulu web site. The option was there on the screen to cancel a subscription but there was no way I could activate it using screen reading software. I had to get my Wife to cancel the subscription for me. She told me it wasn’t an easy process as Hulu tries hard to not let you cancel even a trial membership. After several questions and surveys and are you really really really sure, she was finally able to cancel.

Hulu has got some work to do if they want my business. I’m willing to pay for a subscription, even a higher priced one for no ads. First they need to make their Fire TV app fully accessible. Anyone from Hulu only needs to use the Netflix app with Voice View to see how its done right.

Hulu should at least pass along the audio description for shows & movies that already have it. The Simpsons has been described for many years and to hold it back is just a slap in the face to their customers who are blind or visually impaired. It is their choice to not include description on shows or movies they produce, but at least allow that content to get to your customers if its already part of the program.

New Phones & Accessible Apps

In addition to the accessible apps that I’m using, I thought I’d include info on the new phone I got and accessories.

My Wife and I got rid of our Note 5’s and now have the LG G6.
It was time for a new phone and there wasn’t anything in the Note 8 that interested me.
I considered the Essential phone but am a bit hesitant to buy from a company who has never sold a phone before. I’m sure it’ll work fine, I just don’t want to spend my money to be the one to find out.
There were other phones that I looked at but one of the things I require is NFC. I use it with NFC tags for labeling items all through our house. Some companies like Lenovo decided to disable NFC in the United States, because they think we don’t use wireless payments enough. They don’t know that NFC can be used for more than payments.

The best phone out there that meets my needs is the LG G6. It was after a 5 month follow up review from Android Police saying its still working fine and no issues that I decided it was time to upgrade.

The one item that I didn’t buy for my new phone was a Micro SD card. I had a 128GB card and the 256GB cards are just too expensive right now, at least for my wallet.

USB C Cable RAMPOW Type C to USB 3.0 Braided Charging Cable
https://goo.gl/B5FTWi

I got these cables to use with the charger I got with my phone. I keep that charger plugged-in behind the couch and these longer cables make it easier for me.

LG G6 Case, (Savant – Black) (Wallet Card Storage) Premium PU Leather Wallet (Slim Portfolio https://goo.gl/mngGTc

I prefer a case that covers the screen. Its just one more layer of protection. It has a magnetic clip that keeps the case closed. You can fold the cover of this case towards the back and the magnetic clip will hold the cover there, in the open position.
There aren’t any problems with connecting a cable for charging or data transfer, using the fingerprint sensor / power key or the camera. This is a nice feeling case that enhances the phone.

Wireless Charger, CHOETECH Qi Wireless Charging Pad
https://goo.gl/UuMvF2

The LG G6 doesn’t do fast wireless charging, but that is okay for me. I keep this charging pad on my night stand. It is a non-slip charging pad and its easy to put the phone on the pad and I’ll hear within a few seconds if the phone is charging, or if I need to reposition the phone on the charging pad. Since I do this overnight, it doesn’t matter that it isn’t fast charging. This charging pad does work through the case on my phone.
When I wake up in the morning, the phone is a little warm from the overnight charging, but it isn’t hot.

HARDKING LG G6 Screen Protector, [2 Pack]
https://goo.gl/LsiG1w

This screen protector has a nice feel, no issues with responsiveness, and keeps the screen from getting scratched or damaged. We keep an extra set of these around, just in case we’d ever need to replace the one on the phone.

Accessible Apps
This is a list of the apps that I’m using on my LG G6. I use a bluetooth keyboard, touch, or sometimes a combination of both in an app. I can do what I need to do in these apps, so I consider them to be accessible. Your mileage may vary.
I’m using the Vocalizer Nathan voice with TalkBack and I use a Logitech K380 multi-device bluetooth keyboard.

Allo
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.fireball

Amazon Alexa
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.amazon.dee.app

AquaMail
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.kman.AquaMail

AquaMail Pro Unlocker
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.kman.AquaMail.UnlockerMarket

Calendar
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.calendar

Clipper Sync Plugin
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.clippersync.android.plugin

Clipper+
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=fi.rojekti.clipper

Google Opinion Rewards
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.paidtasks

iHeartRadio
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.clearchannel.iheartradio.controller

KNFB Reader
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sensotec.knfbreader

LastPass
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lastpass.lpandroid

MacroDroid
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.arlosoft.macrodroid

Music Folder Player Full
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=de.zorillasoft.musicfolderplayer.donate

My App List
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.projectsexception.myapplist

Netflix
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.netflix.mediaclient

NextRadio
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.nextradioapp.nextradio

NFC Labeler
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=hu.gersoft.nfclabeler

Nova Launcher
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.teslacoilsw.launcher

Nova Launcher Prime
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.teslacoilsw.launcher.prime

ParcelTrack
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.uberblic.parceltrack

Pocket Casts
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=au.com.shiftyjelly.pocketcasts

RideKCFreedom
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mtdata.ridekcfreedom

Shouter
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bhkapps.proshouter

TapTapSee
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.msearcher.taptapsee.android

Trusted Contacts
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.emergencyassist

TuneIn Radio Pro
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=radiotime.player

Tweetings
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.dwdesign.tweetings

Uber
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ubercab

VLC
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.videolan.vlc

Vocalizer Voices
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=es.codefactory.vocalizertts

Weather Timeline
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.samruston.weather

Shared by ‘My App List’
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.projectsexception.myapplist

Accessible Android Apps August 2017

This is a list of apps that I’m currently using on my phone.
I consider these apps to be accessible for me as I can use them by touch, external keyboard or a combination of both.
I publish this list to offer apps that are accessible but also as a suggestion in case you are looking for a different app that might be easier to use.
I use a Logitech K380 keyboard with my phone, again because its accessible for me. It easily slips into my backpack, has a power switch on the left edge, and you switch devices by pressing the F1, F2, or F3 keys.

Acapela TTS Voices
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.acapelagroup.android.tts

AccuWeather
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.accuweather.paid.android

Allo
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.fireball

Amazon
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.amazon.mShop.android

Amazon Alexa
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.amazon.dee.app

AquaMail
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.kman.AquaMail

AquaMail Pro Unlocker
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.kman.AquaMail.UnlockerMarket

Calendar
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.calendar

Clipper Sync Plugin
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.clippersync.android.plugin

Clipper+
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=fi.rojekti.clipper

File Manager
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=fm.clean

Freemotion change
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.visionandroid.apps.motionsensor

Google Opinion Rewards
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.paidtasks

IDEAL Currency Identifier
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.ideal.currencyid

KNFB Reader
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sensotec.knfbreader

LastPass
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lastpass.lpandroid

MacroDroid
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.arlosoft.macrodroid

Messages
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.messaging

My App List
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.projectsexception.myapplist

Netflix
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.netflix.mediaclient

NextRadio
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.nextradioapp.nextradio

NFC Labeler
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=hu.gersoft.nfclabeler

Nova Launcher
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.teslacoilsw.launcher

Nova Launcher Prime
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.teslacoilsw.launcher.prime

ParcelTrack
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.uberblic.parceltrack

Pocket Casts
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=au.com.shiftyjelly.pocketcasts

Prime Video
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.amazon.avod.thirdpartyclient

RideKCFreedom
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mtdata.ridekcfreedom

Shouter
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bhkapps.proshouter

SwiftKey Keyboard
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.touchtype.swiftkey

TalkBack
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.marvin.talkback

TapTapSee
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.msearcher.taptapsee.android

Trusted Contacts
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.emergencyassist

Tweetings
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.dwdesign.tweetings

Uber
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ubercab

VLC
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.videolan.vlc

If you would like a copy of my collection of .m3u files that I use with VLC, here is a DropBox link: https://www.dropbox.com/s/7cz8kk107yy7rzf/Streaming.zip?dl=0