Summary

In this conversation, Jonathan and Evan discuss the new features and updates in JAWS, a screen reader software. They focus on the Picture Smart AI feature, which uses AI to generate descriptions of images. They also talk about the Voice Assistant feature, which allows users to control JAWS using voice commands. Mohammed Laachir, a tech guru from Vispero, joins the conversation to provide more details about these features and how to use them. In this conversation, Mohammed Laachir discusses the latest updates and features in JAWS. The conversation covers topics such as Picture Smart AI, bug fixes, font smoothing technology, and math support. Mohammed also mentions upcoming features like chat functionality. The hosts also introduce upcoming changes to the BLT podcast, including the launch of BLT Bytes and a new podcast called Game Changers, focused on blind sports.

Takeaways

JAWS has introduced new features and updates, including Picture Smart AI and Voice Assistant.

Picture Smart AI uses AI to generate detailed descriptions of images, making it easier for visually impaired users to understand visual content.

The Voice Assistant feature allows users to control JAWS using voice commands, providing an alternative to keystrokes.

Users can activate Picture Smart AI by enabling the Early Adopter Program in JAWS settings.

The Picture Smart AI feature supports various commands, such as capturing screenshots and acquiring images from cameras or scanners. JAWS has introduced Picture Smart AI, which allows users to take a picture and have it described to them using AI technology.

Bug fixes and improvements have been made to various features in JAWS, including table navigation and compatibility with Office applications.

Xfont, a font smoothing technology, has been expanded in JAWS to improve the readability of magnified text.

MathCat, an open-source math library, has been integrated into JAWS to provide better math support for visually impaired users.

Upcoming features in JAWS include chat functionality, allowing users to interact with chatbots for assistance.

The BLT podcast is introducing BLT Bytes, short episodes focused on beginner technology help tips and tricks.

A new podcast called Game Changers will be launched, featuring interviews with blind and adaptive sports athletes.

Quote of the Show

"Just describe this picture, and it will go wild like it does with be my eyes and tell you everything that it can think of."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and discussion about gardening

03:14 Introduction of Mohammed Laachir and discussion about JAWS updates

05:34 Introducing Picture Smart AI and its capabilities

09:36 Activating Picture Smart AI and using its commands

14:48 Discussion about the Voice Assistant feature

18:26 Introducing Picture Smart AI: Describing Images with AI Technology

19:16 Bug Fixes and Improvements in JAWS

20:27 Expanding Xfont: Improving Readability for Low Vision Users

22:22 Math Support with MathCat in JAWS

28:22 Upcoming Feature: Chat Functionality in JAWS

30:13 Introducing BLT Bytes: Beginner Technology Help Tips and Tricks

32:14 Coming Soon: Game Changers Podcast on Blind and Adaptive Sports

Thank you for listening to this episode of Blind Level Tech. If you enjoyed this episode and have any questions or comments for Jonathan and Evan, please call us at 720-712-8856 or email us at [email protected]. Thanks and have a great week.