I’ve had several people email me recently asking questions about switch scanning and iPads so I thought I would summarise what I know to share. These are the options I am aware of at present, but if anyone has any more information it would be great to hear it. Please add your comments!
At this stage there is no full scanning and switch access option available that works with all Apps on an iPad/iPodtouch/iPhone. Scanning is available within individual Apps only – so you can’t leave the App, scan to another App and open it.
For AAC Apps there are only a few with switch and scanning access right now – and a couple of different switch interfaces which are only very recently available. Most of the AAC App developers have said that they are planning on adding scanning. My understanding is that the Apps generally have to be re-written for this to happen so it isn’t a quick process.
The Apps available with a scanning option built in right now are:
* Sounding Board – works with the AbleNet Blue2 iPod touch/iPad switch interface
* Predictable – works with the RJ Cooper iPad or Therapy Box switch interface OR using the iPad screen as a switch
* TapSpeak Choice – works with the RJ Cooper iPad or Therapy Box switch interface OR using the iPad screen as a switch
TapSpeak Button also said last week that they will have an update available in the next couple of weeks which will include switch support.
If you want any more information about these Apps you can check out the iTunes store (accessed through iTunes on your computer) or my list of AAC Apps.
In a further update – Alexicom AAC has released an update today which includes scanning as well – using the RJ Cooper/Therapy Box interface OR the screen. Auditory as well as visual scanning is included.
Scene & Heard from Therapy Box should be switch accessible also I believe. It should be shipping soon. I tried the app at a conference and it will be a great addition! Currently not listed on their website, but keep an eye out for it.
Thanks Dan – I’d heard about it but haven’t seen it yet. Exciting to see these coming through!
I know the question is about apple products but I thought it may be worth mentioning that the android platform does have switch accessibility for all apps and functions using the tecla app and the tecla sheild which is all open source. Worth checking out now that all the tablets and phones are starting to even look the same.
I am using a prototype with clients with spinal cord injury to watch videos, send emails and make calls using a switch or a joystick.
Michele
OT, Ireland.
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Wow, Michele! Really great info! Thank you so much for that aside. I work with many kids with motor impairments and I am always trying to find info on scanning options. Anyone else have info on this topic? Please share!
We just went live with an app called Catch the Cow. It is designed just to teach scanning and allow it to be compared to direct select. The switch is built-in to the iPad. This is brand new and our first app, developed by a teacher of students with physical impairments and programmer husband.. Feedback is welcome! janab@computerade.com
The Click to Phone application gives complete single switch control of the Andoid phone. It can also provide ECU functions with scanning control of infra red devices. http://www.tecsol.com.au/ClickToPhone.htm
Check out Say Hi! AAC in the app store. We just launched it and it allows two iOS devices to connect wirelessly to navigate our basic communication app.
Thanks Bill. I’ve already downloaded it and am planning on adding it to my next update of my AAC Apps list – which should happen next weekend.
Great!
We built it as a result of our experience with our daughter, Gwendolyn, who has spinal muscular atrophy or SMA. It’s completely changed her ability to use the iPad to communicate and we hope it helps others.
Best part — it’s FREE!!!!
Let me know if I can help in any way.
More info on us >> http://theGSF.org