KNFB Reader Goes Mobile
In late January KNFB Reading Technology Inc. announced the KnfbReader Mobile. This is the next generation of the KnfbReader that was introduced back in 2006. This reading software is installed on the Nokia N82 cell phone.
This represents a major advancement in this technology. The original KnfbReader, (now known as the KnfbReader Classic) consists of a digital camera attached to a personal data assistant and can fit in your brief case or purse. The new KnfbReader Mobile is contained within a cell phone and can fit in your pocket. Additionally, you can read documents, make phone calls, search the internet and text message all on one small device. In order to use the many features of this cell phone, the user must add a screen reader such as Mobile Speak or TALKS.
The KnfbReader Mobile can read all sorts of documents when and where you need them read including menus, newspaper articles, meeting handouts, memos, bills and more. It can also identify currency. The user must hold the device at the proper distance from the document to be read. For the typical 8.5 by 11 inch document, this distance is usually 10 inches. The process of positioning the device for a variety of documents is explained in detail in the user guide and a training page is provided to assist the user in learning how to get optimal results. Use of the device requires a steady hand.
The KnfbReader Mobile is designed to allow blind persons to read on the go. During a typical working day, a user might use it to read documents in an important meeting; read the mail; read the menu at a restaurant; and identify currency to pay the check after dinner.
There are two drawbacks involved in the purchase of the KnfbReader. Firstly, it is rather pricey at 00.00. That’s 00 for the software and 0.00 for the phone. Secondly, the Nokia N82 will work only on the AT&T and the T-Mobile networks. Persons using other carriers such as Sprint or Verizon may not want to switch carriers. They could, of course, decide to purchase the KnfbReader Mobile and carry two cell phones. A representative of knfb Reading Technology was not sure when or if the reader might be made to work with alternative cell phones.
Finally, I was talking about the new KnfbReader Mobile with a good friend who was concerned about what would happen if the user were unlucky enough to misplace the cell phone. He was concerned that the user would lose 00.00 worth of software along with the cell phone. Fortunately, this is not the case. A knfb Reading Technology representative assured me that the software could be installed on another cell phone at no additional cost.
To learn more about the KnfbReader Mobile, go to www.knfbreader.com/products-mobile.php
Or http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2704,2253691,00.asp. For Massachusetts residents who wish to obtain a demonstration or purchase the KnfbReader, Contact Adaptive Technology Consulting at www.adaptivetech.net.