Collaborative Technology Solutions LLC

Recent changes in how AI tools deliver downloadable content have created significant barriers for blind and visually impaired users, impeding their access to essential documents. This article, written by Darrell Shandrow Hilliker, emphasizes the necessity of integrating accessibility measures during development to ensure equal access and inclusion for all users. Click the link to read the full article: https://blindaccessjournal.com/2025/12/when-download-links-arent-links-a-critical-accessibility-failure-in-ai-tools-blind-people-depend-on/

One of the services we provide here at CTS is Job Development & Retention (JDR). This service is good for clients who are ready for employment but need help finding or adjusting to work. It includes resume/interview coaching, placement assistance, and on-the-job support and follow-up. Contact us by calling 1-800-213-0176, or email [email protected].

"For people who are blind or visually impaired, and their families or professionals, a TV isn't just for watching pictures, it's for listening, enjoying stories, connecting with others. A standard TV without accessible features can lead to frustration: menus you cannot hear, audio-description tracks you cannot find, remote controls you cannot feel. But when you choose a TV with inclusive design you open up entertainment, social time and independence." To read the full article, click

How to Choose and Set Up an Accessible TV Learn how to choose and set up an accessible TV for blind or visually impaired viewers, with audio description, voice guidance and smart accessibility tips.

This article discusses a qualitative study that reveals that blind and low-vision users extensively utilize password managers to handle their credentials, often relying on integrated tools within browsers or devices. Effective management hinges on the collaboration between password managers, screen readers, and websites, with accessibility gaps noting the need for better integration and design. To read the full article, click https://techxplore.com/news/2025-10-vision-users-passwords.html

JAWS Power Tip: How To Display A List Of Misspelled Words In A Word Document

When using Microsoft Word with JAWS, you can display a list of misspelled words in the JAWS Virtual Viewer. This allows you to quickly review and correct spelling errors. You must enable the setting Check spelling as you Type in Word for this list to be available. If you try to access the list and this setting is not enabled, a message will be displayed telling you to enable it.

To do this:
1.) Press ALT+F, then T to access Word Options.
2.) Press P to select the Proofing category.
3.) Press ALT+P to navigate to and check the box for Check Spelling As You Type.
4.) Press TAB until you locate OK, and press ENTER.

To display a list of spelling errors in a document:
1.) Press ALT+SHIFT+L to display the list. Navigate it by pressing UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW.
2.) Press ENTER on a word to place focus on that location in your document.
3.) Press ALT+F7 to display a list of spelling suggestions.
4.) Press ENTER on a suggestion to select it. Focus returns to your document.
5.) Repeat these steps to display the list again and continue checking spelling.

Thank you Freedom Scientific for this JAWS Power Tip!

This guide by Scott Davert provides essential information on connecting and using braille displays with iOS devices including supported models, commands, connection instructions, and troubleshooting tips. It highlights features and functionalities that enhance the accessibility experience for braille users on Apple devices. https://www.applevis.com/guides/using-braille-display-ios-introduction

Collaborative Technology Solutions provides Assistive Technology services to enhance independence and quality of life for individuals with disabilities. Assistive Technology (AT) is defined as ANY piece of equipment, device, or system used to improve or maintain the ability level of the individual with a disability in the educational setting, in employment, in transportation, and in all aspects of daily living. Assistive Technology can be handmade, store brought, a modified item, or a specially designed device.

If you're blind or visually impaired and can't find the Select to Speak option on your Android phone, this video walks you step-by-step through how to install the app and get it running. Select to Speak is an on-demand screen reader that makes Android devices more accessible, giving you the flexibility to hear text read aloud whenever you need it. Whether you're exploring assistive technology for the first time, helping a friend or family member living with vision loss, or working as a professional supporting the blind and visually impaired community, this tutorial highlights the value of accessible software, adaptive equipment, and low vision tools. Discover practical tips for making your phone more usable and for living with vision loss more independently. Click the link to watch the video by The Blind Life on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2uhzKphKd64

CTS has moved the upcoming Ethics Webinsr series to the Spring.... please check out our upcoming events.

CTS is excited to announce that we are offering four ethics trainings this fall. Each of these costs only $25 and provides free CRC and CEU credits. Our first one is September 18th, and the link to register is listed below!

https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_tZMG82iESSGrUPmqjRRiog #/registration

Discover the Future of Assistive Technology at the Vision Rehabilitation & Technology Expo for people living with blindness, low vision and DeafBlind. Join us for an enlightening day of cutting-edge assistive technologies tailored specifically for the blind and visually impaired community. VRATE will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025, at the Ability 360 Sports & Fitness Center located at 5031 E. Washington St. , Phoenix AZ 85034. Doors open at 8:00 AM. To register, click https://vrate.org/registration/

In this video, Sam from The Blind Life walks you through the brand-new Detailed Responses feature for the Meta Ray-Ban Smart Glasses. This update, found in the Meta AI app accessibility settings, offers more descriptive, in-depth feedback about your surroundings, perfect for blind and visually impaired users who want richer detail than the standard brief summaries. Click on the link to watch Sam's video:

Meta Ray-Ban Smart Glasses Just Got Smarter: New Accessibility Upgrade You Need to See In this video, Sam from The Blind Life walks you through the brand-new Detailed Responses feature for the Meta Ray-Ban Smart Glasses. This update, found in t...