New Communication Aids for summer 09

Posted by 14 on the 12th August, 2009

This has been quite a summer for AAC - no fewer than four new communication aids have recently hit the AAC High Street.

Firstly there is the mindblowing Proloquo2Go, (P2G) software from Assistiveware which runs on an ordinary iPod Touch (only 115gms in weight) or iPhone. It is undoubtedly the ultimate in 'cool'. The fact that it is a wholly 'mainstream' product  - bought through mainstream outlets, with the software downloaded as an 'App' from iTunes, and affordable to many families - is such a radical new development that it has the potential to change the face of AAC. It needs additional speaker for adequate volume. It will not suit everyone but it has some interesting new design features from an enthusiastic young developer who really listens to users (and replies), and fabulous potential.  No switch access for now anyway.

Secondly, there is the clever but really simple  ProxTalker, a sort of talking PECS system, which was featured recently in this Blog, from Logan Technologies. PECS users will be keen to try this easy to use device, which may hold the key to bridging the gap between low and high tech communication aids.

Thirdly there is the new low tech  Frenchay Alphabet Board (FAB) from E2L Ltd. It's still a bit beyond me why a piece of laminated paper would not be just as good, for some users anyway, but then again I can see that many hospitals and establishments in the community / public places would prefer to buy a device to have available at all times, rather than rely on having a staff member make one for a particular user. And some users would benefit from the sort of keyguard/guide that helps accurate finger indication.

Lastly, news has just broken of the new DynaVox Xpress which is small enough for pocket or hands, but is a powerful complex device with the familiar DynaVox software/ vocabulary look, and full Wifi connectivity. It has built-in synthetic voices and  a 5 inch screen like an iPhone or Blackberry, and unlike the P2Go, it DOES offer switch access. It does not exactly 'replace' the much loved and much lamented DynaMo which featured such endearing simplicity, but joins the competitive field of handhelds and 'quasi handhelds' (NB. no more Palmtop 3  in the UK). It weighs about 700 gms which is about twice the weight of a standard handheld but still pretty portable. The weight is in the built-in amp and speakers which give high volume and excellent quality speech. Look forward to finding out more about it soon.

UPDATE: 20th August: Sorry for misinformation posted in the original version of this blog item - the Xpress offers one switch scanning access.