Subject: [ddots-l] OT cell phones for the blind
Date: Sun, 16 Apr 2006 16:11:04 -0400

Just found out about this and thought I would pass it along.
TALKS by Cingular Wireless
Ever wish you could have the screen reading capability on your wireless 
phone that you have on your computer? Well now you can with TALKS by 
Cingular Wireless-unique
speech-enabling software that essentially turns the new Nokia 6620 handset 
into a talking mobile phone.
The software itself is stored on a Multi Media Card (MMC) that is inserted 
in the phone similar to the insertion of a SIM card. Once inserted, this 
software
runs in the background and translates screens, keystrokes, menu selections, 
etc. into speech output that is audible via the handset speaker or a 
connected
headset, thereby making most phone functions accessible for customers with 
visual disabilities. This software can tell you if email or text messages 
have
arrived, what calls you've missed and most other key screen functions-all 
things that before now were only accessibility "wish list" items.
So what exactly can TALKS and the Nokia 6620 facilitate? Specifically, once 
activated on the Cingular Wireless network, this TALKS/ Nokia 6620 
combination
will allow our customers with visual disabilities to:
List of 7 items
 Hear incoming Caller ID which allows you to be selective about the calls 
you answer
 Know the phone's signal and battery strength
 Write and read notes, text messages and email
 Compose and access multi-media messages (MMS)
 Add, edit and dial entries in a contact database
 Use the appointment calendar, alarm clock and other tools
 Edit the phone's profile and settings
list end
While the TALKS/Nokia 6620 combination may not be for everyone, if you 
currently use a screen reader, consider yourself somewhat technically savvy, 
and
are willing to undertake the usual new technology learning curve, this 
product may be exactly what you need to harness the full potential of your 
phone.
Check out more at:
http://www.cingular.com/about/talks_program

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