In this episode, Steven and Shaun explore why JAWS dominates screen reader use in the workplace and whether NVDA is a viable alternative considering potential price increases for JAWS. They discuss pricing, support, accessibility scripting, and the future of assistive tech.

Thanks to Turtleback Low Vision for sponsoring this episode of Double Tap. As a thank you to the Double Tap community, Turtleback is offering 12% off your entire order with promo code DT12. Visit https://www.turtlebacklv.com to shop the full lineup!

With screen reader costs rising and accessibility funding under pressure, Steven and Shaun take a deep dive into the JAWS vs. NVDA debate. They question why JAWS continues to be the default in many workplaces despite NVDA's maturity and free availability. The conversation touches on software scripting, compatibility with custom enterprise tools, and the broader accessibility tech ecosystem.

Steven reflects on personal experiences with screen reader licensing, funding delays, and being offered limited choices in tech procurement. The duo also share frustrations with Windows and macOS accessibility bugs, VoiceOver focus issues, and WhatsApp interface quirks. Shaun raises the idea of jog wheels for audio editing and asks listeners for feedback on Reaper workflows.
The episode ends with a thought-provoking discussion on whether Microsoft should acquire an assistive tech company to secure the future of screen reading software.

Please note: Double Tap returns from break on the 7th June 2025.

Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website

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About Double Tap

Hosted by the insightful duo, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, Double Tap is a treasure trove of information for anyone who's blind or partially sighted and has a passion for tech. Steven and Shaun not only demystify tech, but they also regularly feature interviews and welcome guests from the community, fostering an interactive and engaging environment. Tune in every day of the week, and you'll discover how technology can seamlessly integrate into your life, enhancing daily tasks and experiences, even if your sight is limited.

"Double Tap" is a registered trademark of Double Tap Productions Inc.

Is Eleven Labs building the next big voice assistant? Steven and Shaun break down the company's latest demo video and share their thoughts on the future of AI integration. Plus, practical talk on screen readers, accessible appliances, and daily blind tech.

This episode is supported by Pneuma Solutions. Creators of accessible tools like Remote Incident Manager and Scribe. Get $20 off with code dt20 at https://pneumasolutions.com/ and enter to win a free subscription at doubletaponair.com/subscribe!

Steven and Shaun dissect ElevenLabs’ new “11 AI” demo video and question whether it's more than marketing hype. While impressed by its natural-sounding voices and emotional tone control, they debate the lack of real integration and functionality, comparing it to other voice assistant platforms like Gemini and ChatGPT. The hosts also explore the deeper challenge of integrating AI across everyday apps and services—and why we're still not there yet.

Later, they shift to listener emails on topics including accessibility of LG appliances, the decline of WhatsApp support on older iPhones, alternatives for low-cost accessible tech, and the emotional weight of navigating blindness and independence. They also touch on third-party Android screen readers like Prudence, Bluetooth Apple TV setups, and the elusive “blindness uniform.”

Chapters
00:00 - Start
02:33 - Introducing 11 AI
14:18 - Do you wash your liquid level indicator?
26:54 - Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions
28:32 - Listener Joel on legacy technology
39:09 - Listener Jeff on accessible LG appliances, iPhone uses & Dummy HDMI
53:21 - Listener Jason on accessible PTT radios

Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website

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About Double Tap

Hosted by the insightful duo, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, Double Tap is a treasure trove of information for anyone who's blind or partially sighted and has a passion for tech. Steven and Shaun not only demystify tech, but they also regularly feature interviews and welcome guests from the community, fostering an interactive and engaging environment. Tune in every day of the week, and you'll discover how technology can seamlessly integrate into your life, enhancing daily tasks and experiences, even if your sight is limited.

"Double Tap" is a registered trademark of Double Tap Productions Inc.

Are audio-based social apps still relevant for blind users in 2025? Steven and Shaun revisit Zello, Clubhouse, and other platforms while tackling listener questions about Siri, Braille signage, CD ripping, and accessible radio tech.

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven and Shaun open the inbox and answer listener questions on everything from nostalgic chat apps like Zello and Clubhouse to modern frustrations with Siri. They discuss the decline of accessible audio-first communities, challenges with Braille signage in public spaces, and the reality of digitizing CD collections for Bluetooth listening.

Listeners also raise concerns about potential funding cuts to US assistive technology (AT) programs and the future of Braille and specialized devices. Plus, there’s news about a new talking DAB/FM radio in development and practical feedback on using Siri offline or with different accents.

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
05:02 - Listener Marc on audio social media apps
16:13 - Listener Mary says you can use Siri to open apps even while offline
18:38 - Listener Nicole wants to rip her CDs
27:25 - Listener Ray talks about the challenge of inaccessible radios
29:12 - Listener Tom asks about indoor navigation using the Stellar Trek
30:46 - Listener Steve is getting refresher lessons for mobility
38:07 - Listener Rebecca has concerns about the state of the AT market in the US
39:56 - Listener Scout on various topics including a good mug for Shaun
45:36 - Listener Ryan on the best way to speak to Siri
49:21 - Listener Pete wants a Mr F badge
50:10 - Listener Damian wonders what all the fuss around Siri is?

Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website

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Follow on:

YouTube: https://www.doubletaponair.com/youtube

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Threads: https://www.doubletaponair.com/threads

Facebook: https://www.doubletaponair.com/facebook

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Subscribe to the Podcast:

Apple: https://www.doubletaponair.com/apple

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RSS: https://www.doubletaponair.com/podcast

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About Double Tap

Hosted by the insightful duo, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, Double Tap is a treasure trove of information for anyone who's blind or partially sighted and has a passion for tech. Steven and Shaun not only demystify tech, but they also regularly feature interviews and welcome guests from the community, fostering an interactive and engaging environment. Tune in every day of the week, and you'll discover how technology can seamlessly integrate into your life, enhancing daily tasks and experiences, even if your sight is limited.

"Double Tap" is a registered trademark of Double Tap Productions Inc.