In this episode, Chris will begin her five-part series using ChatGPT with IOS. Then Marty will talk through locating your notifications on iPhone. And finally, Desiree will walk through changing your bluetooth device type using the meta glasses as an example. Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/unmute-presents-on-acb-communi/68813486-b780-4b28-abf8-d89196bafb81 This podcast is powered by Pinecast . Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to ...
Jun 29, 2025•7 min
This episode of Digital Bytes is full of some great information. First, Chris will describe in detail what the icons on iPhone look like; Hint, it is not always what Voiceover says. Next, Marty will talk through restarting iPhone using Siri. Finally, for her first byte, Desiree will demonstrate voice dictation on Windows 11. Important links Audio URLShort LinkTip jarYou can tune into this call live every Tuesday. Visit acb.community to learn more about what is up coming. Send us your feedback on...
Jun 24, 2025•19 min
We’ve got a quick update for you! Marty is joined by Desiree Renee to share some exciting news — Desiree is officially joining the Unmute crew! 🎉 Desiree is the host of Learning Blind Tech with Desiree Renee , already featured on the ACB Community feed, and now you’ll hear her episodes right here in the Unmute firehose feed too. In this short announcement episode, you’ll learn: Where to find Desiree’s podcast and music: DesireeRenae.com How you can reach out to her directly What updates are com...
Jun 22, 2025•2 min
In this June edition of Mac Chat, Marty and Chris dive into everything WWDC 2025—especially the changes coming to macOS. They unpack the new naming scheme (say hello to macOS 26, aka “Tahoe”), major upgrades to Spotlight including clipboard stacking, and enhanced customization across the system. The duo also discusses accessibility topics like audio descriptions, VoiceOver utility search tips, and the evolving state of Siri and AI integration across platforms. Chris shares updates on her upcomin...
Jun 22, 2025•52 min
In this episode, we start with a quick VoiceOver tip for iOS Notes. Sometimes, double-tapping a link in Notes doesn’t open it as expected. Chris walks through how a double-tap and hold will bring up options to open links or trigger Safari directly when using VoiceOver on your iPhone. Then, Michael and Marty dive into a set of summer travel tips: Wi-Fi Safety on the Go: Avoid public Wi-Fi when possible. Use your mobile data plan or consider purchasing extra data for travel. A VPN is also a good o...
Jun 15, 2025•14 min
In this episode of Digital Bytes: Michael shares how to customize VoiceOver commands on the Mac using the Commands tab in VoiceOver Utility. Learn how to assign custom AppleScripts (like announcing remaining seconds in a minute) to specific key combos, thanks to tips from Chanel, Herbie, and Brad. Quick Tip: Use VO + Fn + F8 (or Command + 8 in the Utility) to get started. Want Michael’s script? Reach out to him on Mastodon: @payown@dragonscave.space. Chanel dives into the often-overlooked search...
Jun 10, 2025•11 min
In this episode of All Things Lady A , we dive into the latest updates on Alexa Plus , Amazon’s upcoming conversational AI experience. Although it's not out yet, we break down what we know so far—including availability on Echo Show 8 and newer devices, and features like natural dialogue, personalized routines, and browser-based access. Then, we put Lady A’s ChatGPT integration to the test with a fun and informative demo. Tune in as we explore Braille-related topics by chatting with the built-in ...
Jun 07, 2025•17 min
In this episode of At Your Fingertips , we take a moment to celebrate Helen Keller's legacy, just in time for her June 27th birthday. We reflect on her impact, not just as a trailblazer for deafblind individuals, but also as a fierce advocate for Braille as a standard reading code. Next, we shift gears to explore Jumbo Braille. Yes, it's a real thing. Learn when it’s useful, how it’s different, and why it might be a good fit for those with tactile sensitivity challenges. And finally, butterflies...
Jun 06, 2025•12 min
In this episode of Digital Bytes: Travel Tip : Chris breaks down everything you need to know about flying with battery packs—what’s allowed in your carry-on, how many milliamp hours different devices use, and tips to avoid TSA headaches. If you're packing a power bank this summer, this is for you. Tech How-To : Marty answers a common question—how to keep your iPhone screen on longer. He walks you through the auto-lock settings and shares a few cautions to keep your battery healthy and your phone...
Jun 01, 2025•12 min
In this special episode, Michael and Marty share some important updates about the future of Unmute. Michael announces that he’s stepping back from his role after taking on a full-time position with the American Council of the Blind. The duo reflects on how Unmute started, how it grew beyond anything they imagined, and express deep gratitude to the many people who made it all possible. They also outline what’s staying the same: Digital Bytes, Mac Chat, and Braille Then and Now will continue throu...
May 26, 2025•9 min
In this week’s Digital Bytes , we explore tech that charges, cooks, and communicates: iPhone 16 Wireless Charging : Marty clears up confusion around the iPhone 16e’s charging options. While it doesn’t include MagSafe, it does support wireless charging (just at slower speeds). Plus, he shares how a MagSafe-compatible case can expand your accessory options—though not your charging speed. Smart Kitchen Real Talk : Chris shares a personal story about smart pressure cookers, app shutdowns, and why yo...
May 26, 2025•17 min
In this episode of the Shell Phone Show, Adrian (aka Driza) demonstrates how to join a Zoom meeting directly from an email using the BlindShell Classic 3. This step-by-step guide is perfect for anyone receiving ACB Community event emails and looking for a quick way to jump into Zoom without entering a meeting ID or passcode. Highlights include: Navigating to email using three different methods Opening Zoom links from within an email Joining a meeting by simply entering your name Adjusting Zoom a...
May 22, 2025•6 min
In this lively episode of Community Unmuted, we ask the question: What’s one assistive tech tip you wish you had known earlier? From restarting screen readers to using clever iPhone and Mac gestures, listeners and hosts alike share game-changing advice and favorite discoveries. We also cover common accessibility questions including: How to access ACB Community calls and podcasts on various devices File organization shortcuts on the Mac Using Be My Eyes to get help from Microsoft Disability Answe...
May 21, 2025•55 min
📝 Show Notes In this episode of Mac Chat, Chris and Marty dive into practical Finder tips for VoiceOver users—why list view rocks, using the Go menu, accessing Macintosh HD, and avoiding common drag-and-drop mistakes. They also walk through customizing the Dock and switching user profiles to handle different language setups or troubleshoot issues. Chris shares exciting news about being selected to speak at MacStock 2025 , where she’ll present on Remote Incident Manager (RIM) and Scribe for Meet...
May 15, 2025•47 min
In this episode of Digital Bytes: Dock More Apps on iOS (with Marty): Marty demonstrates a clever VoiceOver trick that lets you fit more apps in your iPhone or iPad dock by creating folders. Hands-On with the Insta360 Link 2 Webcam (with Michael): Michael shares his first impressions of a $150 AI-powered 4K webcam that auto-tracks your face, mounts securely, and sounds great—despite some software accessibility hiccups. HID Braille Displays on Android (with Chris): Chris brings great news for Bra...
May 12, 2025•14 min
Show Notes: Community Unmuted – May 3, 2025 In this lively edition of Community Unmuted , Michael and Marty field tech questions, share helpful tips, and have a little fun along the way. Liz kicks things off with the question of the day: Do you edit your dictations before or after you send them—or at all? Listener responses range from careful proofreaders to those who just hit send and move on. Highlights from this episode: Dictation Habits: Community members share their approach to dictation, e...
May 08, 2025•57 min
In this episode: Hazel Workflow for Mac : Michael walks through setting up a rule in Hazel to automatically delete .flac files from a Dropbox folder if they're older than one day. It’s a hands-on demo using VoiceOver and shows how powerful Hazel is for keeping folders tidy with minimal effort. Apple BRF Files for Braille Users : Chris shares a great resource—Apple’s Braille-ready user guides for nearly all of their products. If you’re using a braille display or an NLS eReader, these downloadable...
May 04, 2025•18 min
In this relaxed May edition of At Your Fingertips: Braille Then and Now , we explore fun, low- to mid-tech tools that bring joy and progress to Braille learners. From Braille keychains and swing cells to the increasingly popular Braille Doodle and LEGO Braille sets, discover how fidget-friendly tools can reinforce literacy in a hands-on way. We also take a deeper look at input devices like the NLS eReader, Orbit Writer, and Hable One—comparing how each supports learning and navigation across iOS...
May 01, 2025•22 min
Show Notes: Join Driza on this Shell Phone Show as he walks you step-by-step through using Zoom on your BlindShell Classic 2 or 3. Learn how to: Install and access Zoom on both BlindShell Classic 2 and 3 Adjust meeting settings to always show controls Enter your name, meeting ID, and passcode effortlessly Use essential Zoom features like mute/unmute, video toggling, and raising your hand Manage speakerphone and earphone audio settings Easily leave meetings and utilize the recent meetings shortcu...
May 01, 2025•11 min
In this Digital Bytes, Michael dives into LaunchBar’s powerful Clipboard History feature on the Mac, offering tips for customizing it to boost your productivity. Marty shares a quick and accessible way to selectively share contact information without the hassle. Then, Chris introduces the Patreon app, explaining how to support your favorite creators while highlighting its accessibility and easy navigation. Plus, Michael teases an upcoming in-depth LaunchBar tutorial for Club Unmute members. Chec...
Apr 27, 2025•17 min
This was originally published to the Technically Working podcast. See the notes below: TW107: Mute Buttons, Mishaps, and Mental Replays In this episode, Damashe uncovers a hidden switch that finally makes his mute button work the way he wants—after months of assuming he needed to rewire it. Meanwhile, Michael shares a chaotic behind-the-scenes story from an in-person board meeting, complete with misbehaving audio gear, last-minute fixes, and some DIY mix-minus routing. The two dive into: Why ass...
Apr 25, 2025•1 hr 8 min
In this episode, Michael, Liz, and Chris welcome callers to share their favorite tech tips and tackle real-world tech questions. From quick productivity shortcuts to tricky screen reader behavior, it's all on the table in this lively community conversation. Tech Tips Shared: Windows Tip : Use Control + L in File Explorer to jump straight to folders like "Downloads" or even open a website in your browser. Liz’s Reminder : Restarting your device really does fix a lot of problems. Chris’s Shortcut ...
Apr 22, 2025•50 min
Summary: Chris and Michael catch up on the latest macOS Sequoia 15.4 update, sharing what’s working better—and what still needs a workaround. From new Braille fixes to ditching Apple’s Mail categories, they cover practical improvements for VoiceOver users. Michael walks through how LaunchBar has become his go-to for blazing-fast app launching and file actions, and Chris breaks down tips for customizing Finder views to better suit your workflow. You’ll also hear about a hidden setting that makes ...
Apr 17, 2025•43 min
Adrian, aka Driza, is back with a quick and practical demo using the internet browser on the BlindShell Classic 3—with the touchscreen turned off. In this episode, you’ll learn how to: Bookmark a webpage for easy access later Save it to your Favorites list so it’s always one button away Share a link by text or email, straight from the browser Using A Werewolf Gear as the example, Driza walks through three different ways to open the browser, how to organize saved pages, and how to pull them up ag...
Apr 17, 2025•9 min
In this extended edition of Digital Bytes , Michael shares a full replay of audio demos used during a recent ACB Community training session all about Todoist —his favorite (and sometimes frustrating) task management app. First, Michael walks through how to: Set up and navigate Todoist on Windows Use helpful keyboard shortcuts Add, complete, and manage tasks with ease Then, he explores Todoist on iOS , including: Navigation tips using VoiceOver Drag-and-drop task organization Accessing productivi...
Apr 14, 2025•30 min
On this April 5th edition of Community Unmuted , Liz and Michael team up to tackle your toughest tech questions—from syncing struggles to unexpected iPhone quirks. Highlights in this episode: 🛠️ CSUN Recap – Michael shares updates from the CSUN Assistive Tech Conference, including a tactile labeling favorite. 🔄 iCloud Message Sync Issues – Tips for troubleshooting stuck syncs and where to check your iCloud settings. 🗨️ Tapback vs. Emoji – How to react to messages with Tapbacks, plus a refresh...
Apr 08, 2025•53 min
Forget to turn off Do Not Disturb? Marty shares a built-in iOS Shortcut— DND Until I Leave —that silences your phone only while you're at a set location, then automatically reactivates notifications when you leave. Missing delivery? Chris used Aira to track down a misdelivered Amazon package and offers tips for using other tools like JAWS Picture Smart or Remote Incident Manager to get visual assistance. Thinking of starting a podcast? Michael walks through why Pinecast is a great choice—especia...
Apr 06, 2025•12 min
In this episode of At Your Fingertips: Braille Then and Now, Chris shares practical strategies for increasing your Braille reading speed. Drawing from research by the American Foundation for the Blind and insights from Judy Dixon, the discussion covers why finger positioning matters, how a light touch can improve accuracy, and how bottom-dot recognition may slow some readers down. Chris explains the “scissors technique” for two-handed reading and encourages fun, low-pressure practice using tools...
Apr 05, 2025•12 min
In this episode, Adrian—aka Driza —shows you how to turn off the touchscreen on the BlindShell Classic 3. While the phone is primarily button-based like the Classic 2, third-party apps from the Aurora Store can activate touchscreen functionality. Adrian walks you through using the touchscreen in Be My Eyes, then demonstrates how to disable it entirely by using the pound (#) key. You’ll also learn how to switch the touchscreen back on if needed, and why some apps might require it for full access....
Apr 03, 2025•6 min
In this episode of Digital Bytes, we’re diving into quick ways to stay productive with your tech—from smarter navigation in Microsoft Word to decluttering websites in Safari, and even turning a recorded call into a clean training handout using ChatGPT. • Hear Styles Automatically in JAWS Michael shares a practical JAWS tip for Word users: have JAWS announce styles like “Heading 2” or “Normal” as you navigate, so you don't have to press extra keys. Find this option in Quick Settings with JAWS Key...
Mar 31, 2025•11 min
