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 option to keep your data encrypted and secure from snoopers on public networks.

• Password Managers: Using a password manager adds another layer of protection when accessing sensitive sites. If a phishing attempt tries to fool you with a lookalike website, your password manager won’t autofill if the URL doesn’t match exactly.

• Apple Passwords App: iCloud Keychain is now available in a standalone app called Passwords across Apple devices, offering easy and VoiceOver-accessible password management.

Next, the conversation shifts to Aira and how it can be a huge asset while traveling:

• Aira offers free access at many airports, hotels, and public venues.
• Michael shares his personal experiences using Aira to navigate airports, hotels, and even find food during long layovers.
• Aira agents have access to indoor maps at some locations, making navigation much easier for blind travelers.
• Additional options like the Intuit Small Business Plan can provide extra free Aira minutes for eligible users.

Whether you're flying for business, attending a convention, or just taking a summer vacation, these tips will help you stay connected, safe, and independent. For more info on Aira access locations: aira.io/our-partners As always, visit unmute.show for updates and more content, or send your questions and feedback to feedback@unmute.show. You can also subscribe to Digital Bytes as a standalone podcast anywhere you get your podcasts. If you want, I can also prep your SEO-friendly description version if you're using this for your podcast upload or YouTube. Shall I?

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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 box in iOS Settings, showing how it can surface deep, hard-to-find options like:
• Auto-Lock duration
• Preventing the lock button from ending calls
• Accessibility settings like "Stop sounds when locked"
• Hidden Siri and notification controls
• Marty explains how to toggle the Power On/Off chime on your iPhone, giving you more control over audio feedback during restarts.
• Navigate to: Settings > Accessibility > Audio & Visual > Power On & Off Sounds

Stay tuned for more practical tips in future bites!

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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 AI assistant:

• The history of Braille
• How blind people read before Braille
• Braille games like Uno and Chess
• Braille embossers and refreshable Braille displays
• Music notation in Braille
• What UEB (Unified English Braille) is and why it matters

Curious how many questions you can ask before hitting the free version’s limit? We test that too! 💡 Got an idea for a future Lady A segment? Email your suggestions to feedback@unmute.show and Michael or Marty will pass them along. Links Mentioned: No external links this time—just your Lady A device, your curiosity, and a whole lot of Braille talk! Subscribe to Unmute Presents for more content like this, and don’t forget to have fun with your Lady A device!

Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/unmute-presents-on-acb-communi/ce42636e-c979-4805-b710-b028c6fd0ee7

This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Unmute Presents.

Read transcript