

Double Tap
Double Tap Productions Inc.
Double Tap is the show where blind people talk tech! If you’re blind or partially sighted and have an interest in technology, this is the show for you. Everyone is welcome no matter how old you are or how much or how little experience you have with technology. Each week the team will help you better understand how technology can help your everyday life, even if you have little or no sight.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 7, 2025 • 57min
Braille at 200: Braille Education In The US
In our second episode celebrating Braille at 200, Steven Scott discusses the significance of Braille education in the United States with blind QTVI (Qualified Teacher of Visually Impaired Children) Kate Crohan who works at Perkins School for the Blind.The discussion highlights the challenges and opportunities in teaching Braille to visually impaired and low vision students, the importance of acceptance in learning Braille, and the balance between traditional Braille and modern technology. Kate Crohan talks about the need for Braille education to adapt to the needs of individual students, including those with low vision, and both Steven and Kate explore the ongoing debate between different input methods for Braille technology.The conversation also explores the various applications of Braille beyond academics, such as in personal life and community engagement. Also, concerns about the future of Braille in the face of advancing technology and audio resources are addressed, with a hopeful outlook on the continued relevance of Braille.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Celebrating Braille Education02:25 The Role of Braille in Education10:33 Acceptance and Learning Braille15:36 Braille vs. Technology: Finding Balance19:00 The Importance of Braille for Low Vision Children20:51 Navigating Braille Learning Levels23:11 QWERTY vs. Perkins: The Braille Input Debate28:28 The Importance of Braille Usage32:16 Technology's Role in Braille Education36:47 Braille Beyond Academics46:47 Concerns for the Future of Braille
Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website---Follow on:YouTube: https://www.doubletaponair.com/youtubeX (formerly Twitter): https://www.doubletaponair.com/xInstagram: https://www.doubletaponair.com/instagramTikTok: https://www.doubletaponair.com/tiktokThreads: https://www.doubletaponair.com/threadsFacebook: https://www.doubletaponair.com/facebookLinkedIn: https://www.doubletaponair.com/linkedin Subscribe to the Podcast:Apple: https://www.doubletaponair.com/appleSpotify: https://www.doubletaponair.com/spotifyRSS: https://www.doubletaponair.com/podcastiHeadRadio: https://www.doubletaponair.com/iheart About Double TapHosted 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.

Jan 6, 2025 • 57min
Braille at 200: The Past, Present & Future Of The Code
Celebrate the 200th anniversary of Braille with a deep dive into its historical roots and modern significance. Discover the inspiring story of Louis Braille and the transformative impact of Braille on literacy for the visually impaired. The conversation tackles the educational challenges faced by adult learners and highlights innovative devices like the Hable One. Explore the financial barriers to Braille technology and the need for better accessibility, while pondering the future of Braille in a technology-driven world.

Dec 25, 2024 • 56min
The Double Tap Christmas Party
In this festive episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven and Shaun are joined by the stars of AMI, including Jacob Shymanski, Ramya Amuthan, and Kelly MacDonald, who come together to celebrate Christmas Day. They share light-hearted banter about their holiday attire, discuss the changes at AMI-audio over the year, and delve into the evolution of shows like Kelly&Co and AMI Today. The episode is filled with humor, camaraderie, and insightful discussions about media and literature. Amongst other topics, they explore the nuances of audiobooks and audio description, discussing the performance aspect of audiobooks, the accessibility they provide, and the interpretation of media. They delve into the value of audio description in enhancing the viewing experience for the visually impaired, while also touching on personal experiences with technology and Christmas traditions. Come join the party!Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Festive Cheer11:03 Changes at AMI and New Shows19:25 The Role of Audiobooks in Literacy27:10 Debating the Nature of Reading28:35 The Performance of Audiobooks32:46 Accessibility and Interpretation in Media36:59 The Value of Audio Description42:01 Tech Talk: Gadgets and Innovations53:44 Christmas Traditions and Celebrations
Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website---Follow on:YouTube: https://www.doubletaponair.com/youtubeX (formerly Twitter): https://www.doubletaponair.com/xInstagram: https://www.doubletaponair.com/instagramTikTok: https://www.doubletaponair.com/tiktokThreads: https://www.doubletaponair.com/threadsFacebook: https://www.doubletaponair.com/facebookLinkedIn: https://www.doubletaponair.com/linkedin Subscribe to the Podcast:Apple: https://www.doubletaponair.com/appleSpotify: https://www.doubletaponair.com/spotifyRSS: https://www.doubletaponair.com/podcastiHeadRadio: https://www.doubletaponair.com/iheart About Double TapHosted 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.

Dec 24, 2024 • 56min
Double Tap’s Review Of 2024 & Looking Ahead To CES 2025
In this festive episode, the hosts reflect on the year 2024, discussing major tech stories, including the revival of AppleVis, the anticipation surrounding the Glide device, and innovations showcased at CSUN. They also delve into the evolving landscape of hearing technology and its implications for accessibility. They also discuss audio description, the rapid evolution of AI technology, and the future of assistive tech. Steven also welcomes Brian Comiskey, the Futurist at the Consumer Technology Association, to discuss what’s coming up at CES 2025 and the expectations surrounding new tech developments.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Festive Greetings04:57 Reflecting on 2024: Major Tech Stories11:56 The Glide Device: Anticipation and Skepticism18:05 Innovations from CSUN: Accessibility Tech23:04 Hearing Technology: Bridging Gaps and Stigmas28:52 Siri's Shortcomings and User Expectations35:57 Exploring New Technologies Coming Up At CES 2025
Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website---Follow on:YouTube: https://www.doubletaponair.com/youtubeX (formerly Twitter): https://www.doubletaponair.com/xInstagram: https://www.doubletaponair.com/instagramTikTok: https://www.doubletaponair.com/tiktokThreads: https://www.doubletaponair.com/threadsFacebook: https://www.doubletaponair.com/facebookLinkedIn: https://www.doubletaponair.com/linkedin Subscribe to the Podcast:Apple: https://www.doubletaponair.com/appleSpotify: https://www.doubletaponair.com/spotifyRSS: https://www.doubletaponair.com/podcastiHeadRadio: https://www.doubletaponair.com/iheart About Double TapHosted 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.

Dec 23, 2024 • 57min
The Final Inbox Of 2024
In this festive episode of Double Tap, Shaun and Steven engage in a lively discussion filled with holiday cheer, listener emails, and reflections on technology accessibility. They explore various topics, including smart thermostats, voice assistants, and the evolving landscape of audio description, all while sharing personal anecdotes and insights from their audience.In this episode, the hosts discuss various themes surrounding accessibility, personal experiences with cochlear implants, and the complexities of navigating sight loss in society. They talk about the importance of community, identity, and the need for open conversations about disability.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro05:56 Smart Thermostats: Accessibility and Functionality12:02 Text-to-Speech in Audio Description17:56 Getting Out To The Theatre and Audio Description28:00 Reflections on Accessibility and Community33:04 Cochlear Implants: A Personal Journey49:31 Identity and Community: The Blind Experience55:47 Gratitude and Looking Ahead to 2025
Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website---Follow on:YouTube: https://www.doubletaponair.com/youtubeX (formerly Twitter): https://www.doubletaponair.com/xInstagram: https://www.doubletaponair.com/instagramTikTok: https://www.doubletaponair.com/tiktokThreads: https://www.doubletaponair.com/threadsFacebook: https://www.doubletaponair.com/facebookLinkedIn: https://www.doubletaponair.com/linkedin Subscribe to the Podcast:Apple: https://www.doubletaponair.com/appleSpotify: https://www.doubletaponair.com/spotifyRSS: https://www.doubletaponair.com/podcastiHeadRadio: https://www.doubletaponair.com/iheart About Double TapHosted 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.

Dec 20, 2024 • 56min
Aira At Walmart, Driverless Bus Service Scrapped & Be My Porridge
Today on the show Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss their holiday preparations, weekend plans, and the joys of a quiet Christmas. They share humorous anecdotes about cleaning their studios, ear cleaning mishaps, and the importance of slowing down expectations in daily life. The conversation eventually shifts to technology, including the Be My Eyes app and the challenges of using camera glasses for reading. They also explore the recent news about a driverless bus service in Scotland and the future of autonomous vehicles. Also, Steven shares his excitement about digitizing old cassette tapes, reflecting on the nostalgia of family memories. Our featured conversation today discusses the Aira visual interpretation service, its functionality, and its new partnership with Walmart. Jenine Stanley from the company, along with Michael Babcock who has been out testing the service at Walmart, explore how Aira provides visual interpreting services for individuals who are blind, emphasizing its value in everyday situations, privacy concerns by users, and the importance of trust. The discussion also highlights the role of access partners like Walmart in enhancing accessibility for users while reducing costs overall.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Holiday Preparations and Weekend Plans08:52 Be My Eyes Experience and Camera Challenges15:08 Driverless Bus Service in Scotland Cancelled25:06 Nostalgia and Digitizing Cassette Tapes30:15 Introduction to Aira and Be My Eyes33:03 Exploring Aira's Visual Interpreting Service40:32 Aira's Partnership with Walmart41:01 Aira in Action: A Walmart Experience49:13 Access Partners and Their Importance55:54 How to Sign Up for AiraAbout AiraAt Aira, we believe access to information is a human right. Aira breaks down accessibility barriers by providing on-demand video remote interpreting for both the blind and low-vision community, and the Deaf Community. People can download the Aira Explorer app or the Aira ASL app, and be instantly connected to a professional interpreter. Available 24/7/365, interpreters work with callers to facilitate more efficient communication and accomplish tasks together. Aira is proud to lead the way in delivering secure, on-demand, inclusive services that transform lives and open doors to new opportunities for all. #OnMyTerms Learn more at www.aira.io (https://www.aira.io)Download for iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/aira-explorer/id1590186766Download for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=io.aira.explorer&hl=en_CA
Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website---Follow on:YouTube: https://www.doubletaponair.com/youtubeX (formerly Twitter): https://www.doubletaponair.com/xInstagram: https://www.doubletaponair.com/instagramTikTok: https://www.doubletaponair.com/tiktokThreads: https://www.doubletaponair.com/threadsFacebook: https://www.doubletaponair.com/facebookLinkedIn: https://www.doubletaponair.com/linkedin Subscribe to the Podcast:Apple: https://www.doubletaponair.com/appleSpotify: https://www.doubletaponair.com/spotifyRSS: https://www.doubletaponair.com/podcastiHeadRadio: https://www.doubletaponair.com/iheart About Double TapHosted 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.

Dec 19, 2024 • 57min
Keeping Good Company & The Social Model Of Disability
Lysette Chapronier, a passionate advocate for the blind community, shares her insights on blindness and the social model of disability. She discusses the complexities surrounding sight restoration technologies like Neuralink and the importance of societal accommodations. The conversation highlights the evolving relationship between blind individuals and tech companies, focusing on collaboration and advocacy for better accessibility. Lysette also reflects on identity, pride, and how employment plays a crucial role in shifting perceptions of blindness in society.

Dec 18, 2024 • 56min
Meta Explains AI Availability In UK & Are National Tech Centres For Blind People A Good Idea?
Today on the show, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss the latest developments in AI technology, particularly focusing on Meta AI and its availability in the UK and the use cases for Google Geminii 2.0.Following a request from Meta, the company sends us an official statement regarding AI features, their availability in the UK, and the importance of accessibility in AI technology. Privacy concerns surrounding AI usage are also addressed following a listener email, along with a demonstration of the Gemini AI vision features from Brian Clark, highlighting its capabilities and potential applications. There’s also more discussion from listeners on the suggestion by Steven that there should be national technology centres for blind people, with viewpoints raised by Negative Julian and Tiffani on the topic.Plus Tiffani touches on the concept of blind pride and the varying experiences of those who are blind or visually impaired.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro02:59 Meta AI and Its Availability in the UK06:03 User Experiences with Meta Ray-Ban Glasses09:03 Meta's Official Statement on AI Features14:59 Privacy Concerns with AI Technology17:49 Demonstration of Gemini AI Features48:18 Debate on National Training Centers51:58 Blind Pride and Community Support
Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website---Follow on:YouTube: https://www.doubletaponair.com/youtubeX (formerly Twitter): https://www.doubletaponair.com/xInstagram: https://www.doubletaponair.com/instagramTikTok: https://www.doubletaponair.com/tiktokThreads: https://www.doubletaponair.com/threadsFacebook: https://www.doubletaponair.com/facebookLinkedIn: https://www.doubletaponair.com/linkedin Subscribe to the Podcast:Apple: https://www.doubletaponair.com/appleSpotify: https://www.doubletaponair.com/spotifyRSS: https://www.doubletaponair.com/podcastiHeadRadio: https://www.doubletaponair.com/iheart About Double TapHosted 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.

Dec 17, 2024 • 56min
Meta Gets Live AI & BiPed NOA Updates
Today on the show, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss the latest advancements in AI technology, focusing on Google Gemini and Meta's new Live AI features just announced. They share their experiences with these tools, particularly in terms of accessibility for the blind community. The conversation highlights the potential benefits and limitations of AI, emphasizing the importance of user prompts and the need for caution in trusting AI for safety. Our main conversation today however focuses on BiPed, a wearable device for navigation, and its new features. Mael Fabien is the co-founder of the company and shares information on the newly-named NOA wearable and their NOA Chat feature available to Whatsapp users. More details are available at biped.ai.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro03:00 Exploring Google Gemini and Its Features08:46 Meta's Live AI and Its Implications21:10 Updates on Biped and New Features
Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website---Follow on:YouTube: https://www.doubletaponair.com/youtubeX (formerly Twitter): https://www.doubletaponair.com/xInstagram: https://www.doubletaponair.com/instagramTikTok: https://www.doubletaponair.com/tiktokThreads: https://www.doubletaponair.com/threadsFacebook: https://www.doubletaponair.com/facebookLinkedIn: https://www.doubletaponair.com/linkedin Subscribe to the Podcast:Apple: https://www.doubletaponair.com/appleSpotify: https://www.doubletaponair.com/spotifyRSS: https://www.doubletaponair.com/podcastiHeadRadio: https://www.doubletaponair.com/iheart About Double TapHosted 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.

Dec 16, 2024 • 57min
AI Gets Vision & Steven Won’t Eat Chocolate Ever Again
https://youtu.be/Y5Dp7tDcemAToday on the show Steven and Shaun discuss new enhancements in AI vision, while Steven declares he will never eat chocolate again!But the big story of the day is the developments in AI Vision, with both Google and Open AI launching the ability to use your camera to get real time information about your surroundings, with mixed results.Shaun demonstrates the Gemini 2.0 vision feature during an early morning walk with his dog, while Steven talks about his experience trying out the new Chat GPT vision feature.You can access Google’s free version of AI vision using Gemini 2.0 here - https://aistudio.google.comThe guys also chat about a new documentary from Front Page Tech by Jon Prosser - you can watch it here. https://youtu.be/fkK7_QEIJrg?si=ksxDjnYwTPzocl5cGet in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro11:56 Discussion on Blind Representation in Media26:48 Exploring AI's Limitations in Mobility Assistance37:39 Accessing AI Vision Capabilities45:51 AI's Role in Enhancing Travel Experiences51:29 Innovations in Hearing Aid Technology
Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website---Follow on:YouTube: https://www.doubletaponair.com/youtubeX (formerly Twitter): https://www.doubletaponair.com/xInstagram: https://www.doubletaponair.com/instagramTikTok: https://www.doubletaponair.com/tiktokThreads: https://www.doubletaponair.com/threadsFacebook: https://www.doubletaponair.com/facebookLinkedIn: https://www.doubletaponair.com/linkedin Subscribe to the Podcast:Apple: https://www.doubletaponair.com/appleSpotify: https://www.doubletaponair.com/spotifyRSS: https://www.doubletaponair.com/podcastiHeadRadio: https://www.doubletaponair.com/iheart About Double TapHosted 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.