Newsletter: join thousands of other people
Once a month we'll send you an email with news, research and thoughts, as well as training courses and free webinars you may wish to attend.
Our websites:
Posted by Ceanna MacGregor on the 19th January, 2026
Our App wheel ‘Android Apps for Complex Communication Support Needs: Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)’ has been updated with refreshed categories and is full of new apps to explore.
This 'wheel' of apps provides a categorised guide to Android apps for individuals with complex communication support needs, who use or may benefit from Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).
The apps have been grouped by their main features. Those with a yellow star beside the app logo indicate that it is a free app, or a free version is available and those with an orange star indicate that a free trial is available.
Android tablets tend to be less expensive than iPads, therefore it is not surprising that they are an increasingly popular option, particularly at home.
Over the last few years, the number of AAC apps available for Android devices has grown. While the selection still doesn’t match the variety offered on iPads, this is a promising development.
Unlike iOS, there is a wide variation in Android operating systems, therefore, not all apps work on every Android operating system. Before committing to purchase or subscribe to an app, ensure it will work with your device and operating system.
Very few apps included in the Wheel have built-in alternative access methods, however, some Android devices include accessibility features that facilitate switch access. If you require alternative access methods or options, the Switchify app is worth testing out!
Switchify is an advanced switch access app for Android, empowering accessibility through multiple control methods, facial gesture recognition, and comprehensive customisation options. Find out more on their website or download Switchify from the Google Play App Store.
Download Switchify from the Google Play App Store
We will be hosting a webinar on Wednesday 18th March where Owen McGirr will share insights on how to develop effective solutions for disabled individuals from the perspective of a user. Owen will also showcase the Switchify App.
Webinar - Switchify app: developing Android solutions for switch users.
View and download the Android Apps for Complex Communication Support Needs Poster. The poster is interactive; clicking on any icon in the PDF poster will take you directly to the app download link in the Google Play app store.
An accessible breakdown of the PDF poster is available further down on the download page.
Download the Android Apps for Complex Communication Support Needs Poster.
Are you using any apps you feel should be represented in this App Wheel?
If so, please get in touch to allow us to review them:
Email: ceanna.macgregor@ed.ac.uk
10-week short study online course
Newsletter: join thousands of other peopleOnce a month we'll send you an email with news, research and thoughts, as well as training courses and free webinars you may wish to attend.
Our social media sites - YouTube, Twitter and Facebook