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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?
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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.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Steven shares the emotional and practical realities of applying for a guide dog, while Shaun questions the balance between blind pride and accessibility struggles. The duo also tackles listener emails on delivery frustrations, hearing myths, and audio description failures.
In this episode of Double Tap, Steven opens up about his recent guide dog assessment and the mental toll it took. The conversation explores the complexities of guide dog eligibility, mobility expectations, and the challenges blind people face in daily life.
Shaun and Steven reflect on blind pride, debating whether it empowers or downplays real obstacles.
Listener feedback adds depth, from Grace’s Amazon delivery experience to Logan’s frustration with inaccessible blind school screenings. Lisa shares insight on using Glide, while Hetty and Lucas raise important points about independence and tech durability.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
01:31 - Steven has his guide dog assessment!
18:04 - Listener Geroge doesn’t like to move it, move it
22:22 - Listener Lisa with comments on Glide and blind people’s hearing
28:31 - Listener Grace on blind people texting and annoying delivery drivers
33:10 - Listener Heddy on the subject of blind pride
44:42 - Listener Logan on school for the blind not showing audio described movies in class
48:24 - Listener Lucas on the durability of Meta Ray Bans
53:53 - Listener Camille on boats not having steering wheels!
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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.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
New Meta Oakley smart glasses, upgraded voices for screen readers, and an honest look at accessibility shopping—all packed into this lively Double Tap episode.
In this episode, Steven and Shaun kick off the week with updates on Meta's latest collaboration with Oakley, bringing new smart glasses with improved battery and camera specs.
They also debate the merits of new SAPI 5 text-to-speech voices from Blastbay, evaluating how they perform at higher speech rates for productivity.
Listener emails spark thoughtful discussions on Braille literacy, the performance of AI phone shopping tools like InnoSearch, and creative workarounds for hands-free video calling.
Plus, there's a surprising gadget that combines hydration and MagSafe.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
03:47 - Double Tap takes a holiday!
05:27 - Double Tap is coming to Sight Village
07:25 - Meta and Oakley partner to create new smart sunglasses option
15:42 - Blast Bay offers new SAPI 5 voices for Windows users
26:30 - Subscribe to the Double Tap newsletter
27:28 - Contact the show!
30:30 - Listener Yusuf gives his thoughts on braille and literacy
40:55 - Listener Darren shares his experience of using Innosearch
49:59 - Listener Rich on alternatives to the FaceBook Portal devices
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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.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Steven and Shaun tackle the big questions this week—from being trapped in a recliner to debating whether sheltered workshops for disabled people still have value. Plus, listener emails spark deep dives into Braille, inclusion, and how technology can both help and hinder.
In this episode of Double Tap, Steven shares his comical ordeal of being stuck in an electric recliner during a power outage—complete with melting KitKats and home automation chaos. Shaun adds his own take on tech dependency and heatwave fashion choices.
The conversation shifts into more serious territory as they respond to listener emails. Doug Lawlor reignites the Braille literacy debate, emphasizing the value of combining Braille and screen reader skills. Steven and Shaun unpack the pros and cons of teaching Braille later in life, the barriers to adoption, and accessibility challenges in public spaces like cruise ships and toilets.
Later, a message from Raheem in Ireland about sheltered workshops in Kenya sparks a meaningful discussion about employment, inclusion, and whether creating dedicated workspaces for disabled people might offer purpose and community—especially when mainstream systems fall short.
Steven ends with a powerful call for blind leadership in blindness organizations, questioning why inclusion often seems to exclude the very people it aims to support.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
00:30 - Shaun’s incredible trousers
02:28 - Steven’s power dilemma
07:51 - Should blind people buy bulbs?
15:26 - Listener Doug talks about braille literacy
31:52 - Listener Mickey likes our newsletter
33:12 - Listener Raheem discusses the value of blind workshops in Kenya
55:08 - Rumours of new style Meta frames coming soon
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Subscribe to the Podcast:
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.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Steven and Shaun return to the inbox with tech frustrations, personal updates, and listener messages on future AI, smart mobility devices, and sunglasses for blind users. From garden mishaps to thoughtful reflections on accessibility, it's one of those episodes that somehow works—warts and all.
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!
In this episode of Double Tap, Steven and Shaun dig into listener feedback while navigating everything from technical hiccups to health annoyances. Steven shares the chaotic behind-the-scenes story of reviewing the Synapptic Smartwatch—complete with dead batteries and dying phones. Meanwhile, Shaun recounts his heroic (if slightly painful) attempt at DIY gardening.
Listeners weigh in on emerging AI tech, with comparisons to the film Her, and the potential—and risks—of operating systems that rely solely on voice input. Marc in Montreal and Steven reflect on the Glide device as a supplement, not a replacement, for traditional mobility tools like canes and guide dogs. The episode closes with a deeper discussion about "useless vision," blind identity, and the challenges of partially sighted education.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
00:25 - Steven’s still ill… and still complaining about it
13:22 - Listener Chris on the future of AI wearable devices
22:47 - Listener Marc really wants a Glide mobility aid
29:48 - Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions
30:42 - Get your ad on the show!
31:43 - Listener Peter on AirTags and AirTag holders for use with dogs
32:52 - Listener Dean on Shaun’s noises and Meta AI
50:58 - Listener Ryan on teaching screen readers
54:25 - Listener Negative Julian is back to prove his Android phone is updated
Relevant Links
Synapptic Smartwatch: https://www.synapptic.com
Glide Mobility Device: https://www.glidance.io
Dolphin SuperNova: https://www.yourdolphin.com
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Follow on:
Subscribe to the Podcast:
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.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Is Android finally accessible for blind users? We explore the new Synapptic SmartWatch Plus—an accessible Android-powered wearable—and test high-end custom earbuds from Breggz that promise audiophile-grade sound.
In this episode of Double Tap, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece explore two very different products with accessibility in mind. First, Steven offers a detailed hands-on review of the Synapptic SmartWatch Plus, a fully accessible Android smartwatch designed for blind and low-vision users. Unlike many Android wearables, this one impresses with fast performance, simple navigation, and full voice output—plus it works without a smartphone.
Then, Steven interviews Sander and Anouk from Breggz, creators of premium wireless earbuds built with balanced armature drivers for unmatched audio clarity. They discuss the engineering behind the custom-molded fit, plans for AI-driven voice control, and how the product appeals to audiophiles and users with mild hearing loss. The conversation also touches on accessibility challenges in apps and the future of latency-free Bluetooth sound for blind users.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
01:39 - Steven’s review of the Synapptic Smart Watch
14:05 - Shaun’s reaction to the Synapptic Smart Watch review
26:56 - Get in touch with the Double Tap team
27:24 - Anouk Slond talks about Breggz Earbuds
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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.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive deep into the latest updates in Android 16 and TalkBack 16. You'll hear firsthand experiences, expert analysis from John Dyer of Blind Android Users, and listener feedback on Alexa Plus and the importance of fair pay.
Steven and Shaun kick off the show with humor and tech banter before exploring Marissa's early access to Alexa Plus. Her smart home experiences and testing of video doorbell AI descriptions spark an engaging discussion on accessibility and real-world use.
Later, listener TJ shares thoughts on fair compensation for disabled professionals, prompting a candid conversation about the value of lived experience and emotional labor. Callum asks for help demystifying screen reader navigation modes, leading to a promise for a future deep dive.
The highlight comes with John Dyer’s walkthrough of Android 16’s new notification features, theft detection, and system-wide accessibility improvements. TalkBack 16 gets even more exciting with screen descriptions, follow-up questions via Gemini, and better table navigation.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
04:58 - Listener Marissa reviews Alexa Plus
18:06 - Listener TJ shares his views on fair pay for blind people
26:56 - Listener Callum on using the various JAWS cursors
30:49 - Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions
31:56 - John Dyer talks Android 16 and Talkback 16 updates
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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.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of Double Tap, Steven and Shaun dive into the latest tech updates and accessibility news, including a deep conversation with Matthew Horspool from the Tactile Reading and Graphics Conference in Amsterdam.
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!
Steven battles through a cold to bring you a packed show covering everything from accessible streaming frustrations to major updates in screen readers and hardware for blind users. The episode features a thoughtful listener question about choosing a braille note taker for work, with expert guidance from Matthew Horspool of the Braillists Foundation. Matthew also shares insights from the Tactile Reading and Graphics Conference, focusing on the future of tactile graphics, braille technology, and the balance between high-end devices like the Monarch and affordable tactile tools for home and education.
You’ll also hear reactions to the closure of the Speech Radio app, detailed reviews of Victor Reader Stream and NVDA updates, and an important discussion on how blind users can engage with tactile and visual learning in modern tech environments.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
00:59 - Steven has a cold!
02:31 - Shaun’s weekend!
09:27 - CoPilot Vision availalbe now to US customers of Microsoft
13:27 - Speech Radio app is being closed down
14:45 - Statement from British Wireless for the Blind fund
18:43 - Victor Reader Stream Gets 1.5 Software Update
21:32 - NVDA gets big update with built in Remote Access feature
25:20 - Sponsor: Turtleback
26:11 - Matthew Horspool on the Tactile Reading and Graphics Conference
26:50 - Listener question from Karen on buying a braille display
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Subscribe to the Podcast:
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.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of Double Tap, Steven and Shaun dive into the evolving world of AI-generated code—aka "vibe coding"—and its potential to reshape app development. They break down the user interface changes introduced at Apple’s WWDC and how accessibility settings may help low vision users manage visual effects. A chaotic bus ride involving accidental Bluetooth pairing leads to an embarrassing and hilarious story.
Hable is doing a one-time promo just for Double Tap listeners. Hable is offering Double Tap listeners an exclusive 15% off the Hable One and Hable Easy — two powerful tools designed to make smartphones more accessible. Visit www.doubletaponair.com/hable.
Hable is doing a one-time promo just for Double Tap listeners. Hable is offering Double Tap listeners an exclusive 15% off the Hable One and Hable Easy — two powerful tools designed to make smartphones more accessible. Visit www.doubletaponair.com/hable.
Listener feedback sparks deeper conversations around OCR’s ability to read handwriting, the limitations of blind pride narratives, and ongoing frustrations with the rollout of Alexa Plus. Topics like accessible transportation, social attitudes, and declining Braille services from RNIB are also discussed with honesty and insight.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
00:44 - More Thoughts On Apple’s WWDC
14:30 - Special Post-WWDC Coverage Coming To The Double Tap Exclusive Podcast
19:30 - Listener MaryAnn talks about using the SpeakABoo app
23:45 - Listener Kyler is frustrated with the Alexa Plus rollout
28:08 - Sponsor: Hable One Offer only for Double Tap listeners
29:04 - Listener Negoslav on the debate around blind vs sighted people
38:43 - Listener Nicole on the cost of waiting times in taxis
45:17 - Listener Scout on RNIB’s change to personal braille transcription
52:53 - Listener Sharon cheers us all up with a nice message
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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.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Steven and Shaun dive further into Apple’s WWDC announcements, including updates to the Vision Pro, new accessibility tools, and the ongoing debate around gaming on Macs. They also respond to listener feedback on the accessibility of label printers and smart AI tools.
Hable is doing a one-time promo just for Double Tap listeners. Hable is offering Double Tap listeners an exclusive 15% off the Hable One and Hable Easy — two powerful tools designed to make smartphones more accessible. Visit www.doubletaponair.com/hable.
In the second half, Steven interviews Patrick Burton, co-founder of Benvision. Patrick shares the story behind his innovative navigation app that uses spatial audio to guide blind users in indoor environments. He also discusses Speakaboo, a simplified AI-based visual recognition app designed for instant feedback, and VidiScribe, a tool for automatic video audio description. Patrick offers a candid look at the challenges of developing accessible apps in a crowded, underfunded tech space.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
00:26 - Everyone’s Still Talking About WWDC
09:42 - Listener Louise on using the Nelkoo Label printer
16:16 - Listener TJ reflects on our recent Aira interview
18:49 - Listener Tom on getting AI to be on the lookout for us
21:42 - Sponsor: Hable Offer only for Double Tap listeners
22:50 - Interview: Patrick Burton on Benvision & SpeakABoo
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Follow on:
Subscribe to the Podcast:
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.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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