Blind Low Vision: Plug-in connects library books to Alexa Smart Speaker
Blind Low Vision NZ developed a plug-in for Alexa smart speaker to deliver the library’s talking books and magazines, replacing outdated CDs. People who are blind or with low vision have found the interactive voice technology extremely accessible, no longer needing to read a screen and touch controls to get their audiobooks. With the use of a few simple commands people can ask Alexa to search the library and play any one of the 36,000 books in the collection, or any of the 49 magazines produced in audio.
People who have been excluded from the internet because of their vision now have access. Not only are they able to explore the worldwide web of information and entertainment but there is an ever-increasing range of other skills that overcome the difficulties they face on a daily basis. For example, there are skills that enable you send SMS text messages and emails, initiate phone calls, launch Google Maps navigation, create a shopping list, set reminders and much more. For people who have lost their vision, who are feeling isolated and limited now that their world has become very narrow, this technology has been game changing.
Examples of feedback received:
“This morning I made a follow-up call to Ronny B to check that he was managing to use Alexa and the feedback was wonderful. Not only is he managing but he says it has "enhanced his life". He is "blown through the roof" being able to operate a device without pushing buttons. In addition to making his access to reading material so much easier, it is helping with other simple things - news, weather, time of day. He is no longer concerned about missing the morning news bulletin as he can ask Alexa whenever he is ready. He thinks it is "fantastic" and that "the Blind Foundation has hit the jackpot".
Tallulah is 11 years old. Her mother, Jess, said:
“When we went into lockdown, Rachael [Blind Low Vision NZ rehabilitation instructor] was really, really good and helped us get her an Alexa. And that it's just a game changer because compared to the DAISY [CD] player she has independence in what she wants to do, she can explore what Alexa can do and just learn through that.”
Kelliher Charitable Trust initially worked with Blind Low Vision on an Alexa pilot programme in 2019. With further support from Kelliher Charitable Trust and the Ministry of Social Development, a national rollout began in 2020.