Technology
Part of RNIB’s Confident living series
Contents
Five top tips
Introduction
Mobiles and smartphones
Computers and tablets
eBooks
Getting online
Further information
We value your feedback
About the confident living series
Five top tips
1. Talk to your friends and family about what they do with technology.
2. Ask in-store staff to demonstrate to you the various features of
phones, computers or eBook readers.
3. Try before you buy and make the most of any trial periods that
enable you to return products you are not happy with.
4. Use RNIB’s Technology Support Squad for help and advice with
setting up new devices.
5. Don’t be afraid to try something new!
Introduction
Technology now plays a key role in our everyday lives. Being able to
use a computer, tablet or mobile phone enables blind and partially
sighted people to work, shop, bank, read, book events and travel as
well as keeping in touch with family and friends. In this guide we want
to give you some introductory information to help you choose the
technology solutions that will make life easier. But this is just a start,
to find out more call our Helpline, visit our website and take any
opportunities you can to try out new technologies and find out what is
going to work best for you.
Mobiles and smartphones
The mobile phone and the smartphone play an increasingly important
role in our everyday lives. It is important that you choose the right
phone for you so you are able to make the most of it.
It’s good to be aware of the key features of a phone to look out for,
which may help you to use it more easily if you are living with a sight
problem. There is much more detailed information available on our
website and elsewhere – see the further information section for more
details.
Many stores have demonstration phones so make sure you try before
you buy and find the phone that best suits your needs.
Keypad buttons
Although many phones now have touch screens, button based
models are still available and may be easier for people with sight loss
to use. Look for large, well spaced, easy-to-read buttons. Some
phones also have a tactile marker on the number five to help you find
your way around the keypad.
Display
A large display will be easier to see and almost all displays will be
colour with features including adjustable brightness, contrast and font
size to help you use them.
Size
Screen sizes for smartphones are generally getting bigger as the
phone itself gets thinner. It is important that you find the size of phone
that suits you. Most mobile phones have a screen size of around 2.2
inches, the screen on a smartphone can range from 3.5 to 4.8 inches.
Shape
As well as the size of the phone you may want to consider the shape
when choosing your phone. The standard rectangular shape is known
as the candy bar shape. Clamshell phones are in two halves hinged
at the centre, that flip shut to protect the keypad and screen. A slider
phone has the keyboard coming out from behind the screen.
Dialling
Speed dialling features can help you to use your phone more easily
by programming in numbers and being able to call them with just one
or two button presses. Some phones also have voice recognition
which will dial the number from your contact list when you speak the
name into it.
Accessibility features
The main types of accessibility features that can help people with
sight problems to use a phone are screen readers, which read out to
you what is on screen, and screen magnification systems, which
enlarge what is on screen so that you can read it. Some mobile
phones and smartphones have these features built-in, while some will
allow you to add these features to your phone after purchase.
However, it’s important to note that some phones will not have these
accessibility features and will not allow you to add them to your
phone. We can give you information on which phones have or can
incorporate which features.
Patricia’s story
Since beginning to lose her sight Patricia has embraced technology
as a way of helping to make life easier and retain her independence.
Thanks to Jeff, one of RNIB’s Technology Support Squad volunteers,
Patricia now has the confidence she needs to get the most from
technology.
She told us, “An ordinary mobile phone wasn’t any good for me
anymore as I couldn’t use the scrolling buttons or read text
messages. Jeff from the RNIB Technology Support Squad came to
visit me at home. He very patiently helped to find the right phone for
me. Jeff was excellent. He telephoned me a few weeks after the visit
to see how I was getting along. The service is amazing. Jeff came to
my home again to help me with a product that brings up printed
documents on my television screen when I press a special mouse on
the page. He set everything up and helped me find the size and
colour contrast that is right for me. He’s been wonderful.”
Jargon busters
Wi-Fi: the technology that allows an electronic device, such as a
phone, to exchange data or connect to the internet wirelessly using
radio waves.
Contrast ratio: the ability of a phone’s screen to display colour
contrast.
Computers and tablets
Choosing a computer, laptop or tablet can be a confusing process.
Here we’ll introduce you to the different options and the major
differences between them so that you can make the best choice for
you. This will be dependent on what you want to do with your
computer – for example, work, socialise, play games or search the
internet – and the features you need to enable you to use it easily.
Desktop computers
Desktop computers are fixed computers which can have a large
screen which may be useful to someone with sight problems. They
also have a large number of ports for connecting equipment such as
printers, scanners and braille embossers.
Laptops
Laptops are portable computers that include a battery and thus allow
you to work anywhere. Generally the lighter they are the more
expensive they are.
Netbooks
Netbooks are mini laptops usually with a smaller 10 inch display
screen.
Tablets
Tablets have a screen usually between 7 and 10 inches, they have
no keyboard but are touchscreen, which some people with sight
problems may find more difficult to use. Tablets run “apps” rather
than the full blown applications that the larger computers run.
Accessibility features
The main accessibility features consist of screen reader systems and
screen magnification systems. The first thing to do is check out what
is built into a computer or tablet as many include these features. You
could also download free “assistive technology” software that can
speak or magnify your screen content. Or you could buy some
software which may have the benefit of having some support from the
company, helping you to set it up or deal with any problems you
have. Adapted hardware is also available such as large print
keyboards, larger monitors or braille displays.
Windows is the most popular PC operating system – RNIB has
produced guides explaining how to use Windows when you are
unable to use the screen, which are available from our Helpline.
Mac OS X has a number of built in accessibility features available
when you purchase the operating system for a Mac computer.
John’s story
John told us, “I was 68 when I started to lose my sight. At that point
I’d never used a computer, it had never been something that I felt that
I needed. As my sight got worse I was finding shopping a problem
and that was when Linda, my daughter, got me a laptop and the first
thing she taught me to do was my supermarket shop. At first I just
didn’t think I could get to grips with it but she made me persevere and
now I’m getting shopping delivered to my door! It’s fantastic. Now I’m
emailing my family at least once a week, as well as reading news and
sport on the internet. Linda has started talking to me about getting a
smartphone. Apparently it will change my life! Well I’m not sure I need
that, and part of me thinks it will not be for me, as I felt with the
laptop. But part of me thinks it might be fun to try! We’ll see.”
Jargon busters
Processor speed: the speed that a computer can process
information, measured in Gigahertz (Ghz). Most computers have at
least 1.4 Ghz, some have more than 3 Ghz.
RAM (Random Access Memory): the memory your computer has to
work with, measured in Gigabytes (GB). Most computers have
between 4GB and 8GB.
eBooks
An eBook is an electronic version of a book which can be read on an
eBook reader, tablet, smartphone or computer. An eBook reader is
specifically designed to be portable. There are various ways you can
use an eBook reader if you have a sight problem and struggle to read
the text. We can give you more information on all of these options
and the choices you have.
Text-to-speech
Text-to-speech is a synthetic voice which reads the eBook to you. It is
not like a human voice narrated book but because it can be
generated automatically it does allow you to access books,
newspapers and magazines as soon as they are available.
Magnification
Most eBook readers and eBook reader apps will have different text
sizes, shapes and colours that can be chosen for the content of the
books. For other parts of the app, such as menus, controls and the
list of books on your device you may need a separate magnification
app to help you use them.
Braille
An increasing number of eBook apps allow a braille display to be
connected so that you can choose contracted or uncontracted braille
to read your eBooks.
Buying eBooks
Although the features mentioned above make it easier for you to read
an eBook they do not extend to helping you buy the books. Large font
and text-to-speech options do not extend to online features and you
may need assistance to purchase books online using your device.
Frank’s story
Frank says, “I’ve always been a reader, always had my nose in a
book. Due to macular degeneration I started to lose my sight ten
years ago and eventually it got to the stage where I just couldn’t read
a book anymore. It had a big impact on me and it felt like a big part of
my life had been taken away. Well I went on, feeling sorry for myself I
suppose, for about a year and then I tried some audio books. This
was ok, it didn’t feel quite the same but it was ok. But when I first tried
eBooks that was it, I was hooked pretty much straightaway. I can
enlarge the text to the size that suits me at the moment, the majority
of stuff is available at the same time as the printed books, which is
really important to me, and it also feels a bit like reading a real book,
which I also like. I’d recommend it to anyone, and I have!”
Jargon busters
eBook reader: a device that is designed especially for reading
eBooks. Kindle and Kobo are types of eBook readers.
eBook app: a programme that runs on a computer, tablet or
smartphone and enables you to read an eBook. The makers of eBook
readers also make eBook apps, which include iBooks (made by
Apple) and Adobe Digital Editions.
Getting online
Once you have chosen the device that you want to use, desktop
computer, tablet, smartphone etc, then in order to make the most of
what they can offer you’ll need to get online and start using the
internet. This will enable you to use email, meet like-minded people,
play games, read newspapers and magazines and much much more
besides.
Connecting to the internet
There are four types of internet connection:
ADSL broadband
ADSL broadband (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) is the most
popular form of internet connection in the UK. This uses your landline
telephone line, supplied by a company such as BT, to connect to the
internet.
Cable broadband
To receive cable broadband you need to live in an area served by
cable companies such as Virgin Media. You will need an engineer to
install the equipment to connect you to the internet.
Mobile broadband
A mobile broadband connection, which is provided by mobile phone
companies such as Vodafone and Orange, does not tie you to a
specific address. You will be given a “USB dongle” which plugs into
your device and enables you to get online. However, the quality of the
service will depend on the quality of the mobile signal available to you
wherever you are.
Dial-up
Dial-up connection was the original method of internet connection. It
is now largely used only in remote areas where there are no other
options available.
Choosing an internet service provider
There are many internet service providers offering many different
packages at different prices. The important thing is to not be
intimidated by the range of offers and make sure you get the package
that is right for you. A good internet service provider will help you by
answering your questions, and you should be allowed a trial period of
at least two weeks before signing any longer term contract. An
important aspect of your choice will be the data capacity you require
which will depend on what you intend to do. Email and reading text
on websites uses very little data, while watching videos, or listening to
the radio will require much more. If you plan to use it a lot you’ll need
an option that gives you unlimited bandwidth.
Val’s story
Val Brown is 66 years old, retired and partially sighted. She told us,
“I’ll be honest with you I’d be very very lost without being online. I do
my banking, I do my shopping, even films, newspapers, everything. I
would be totally lost without it. I started using the iPad about a year
ago. The first thing I ever did I went to bed and read a book. I just
enjoyed flicking the pages like I would if I was reading a normal book.
Long before my eyesight deteriorated I would never dream of
shopping online. I was scared of it, I was frightened that any of my
credit card details and information would get stolen. Online shopping
and online banking has become the norm, everyday for me.
The most helpful thing on the iPad for me is the magnification tool. It
zooms on the letters. You can adapt the size of the text to what you
need.”
Jargon buster
Broadband: a wide bandwidth that enables high-speed internet
access.
Further information
Technology Support Squad
RNIB’s Technology Support Squad is a free national service that can
set up and help you use your technology: from TVs, phones and
audio labellers to talking book players and beyond.
There are thousands of gadgets designed to make living with sight
loss easier, but it’s hard to know where to start once you get them
home. If you’re blind or partially sighted and having trouble setting up
or getting the most out of your technology, RNIB’s Technology
Support Squad is here to help. Call the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123
9999 or email helpline@rnib.org.uk
Switch on to technology month
Although technology can seem daunting, you don’t need to be an
expert to use it or enjoy the many benefits it can bring to everyday
life. Switch on to technology month is an annual event organised by
RNIB and highlights some of the great products available and how
you can make the most out of them. To find out more contact the
RNIB Helpline or visit rnib.org.uk/technology
Beginner’s guides
Technology is developing every day. It can be daunting knowing
where to start with the thousands of products available from
specialists and the high street that have been designed with blind and
partially sighted people in mind. The following guides are available by
calling our Helpline, or visiting rnib.org.uk/technology
Beginner’s guide to keyboard skills
Using a keyboard is essential if you can’t use a mouse, and can
make using your computer easier and faster even if you can. Our
beginner’s guide will get you started on learning how to use the
keyboard.
Beginner’s guide to assistive technology
Unsure about assistive technology? Our beginner’s guide helps you
understand the basics, whether you use a screen reader, a magnifier,
braille output or something else.
Beginner’s guide to computers, laptops and tablets
Computers aren’t all that scary really – our beginner’s guide takes the
fear factor out of using a computer. Get started today!
Beginner’s guide to mobiles and smartphones
Everyone seems to have a mobile, or even a smartphone, these
days. But do you know how to make the most of yours? Our
beginner’s guide will get you started.
Beginner’s guide to getting online
Using the internet can open up whole new worlds. Our guide to
getting online should help you get started.
Beginner’s guide to cloud computing
Unsure about cloud computing? Our beginner’s guide helps you
understand the basics and what some of the most popular services
are.
We value your feedback
We would be interested to know where you received your copy of this
publication or if you found there was any information that was
missing, or if there is anything else you would like to tell us about the
publication. If you would like to give us feedback, please email us at
publishing@rnib.org.uk or send your feedback to the following
address (there's no need to use a stamp):
FREEPOST RSCB-GJHJ-HLXG, RNIB Publishing, 105 Judd Street,
London WC1H 9NE.
About the Confident living series
The Confident living series is for people who are losing or have
recently lost their sight and are trying to build their confidence to
continue to lead full and independent lives. Other titles in the series
are:
Leisure
Living safely
Managing your money
Reading
Shopping
Travel
All these leaflets are available in audio, print and braille formats. To
order please contact our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 (all calls charged
at local rate), email helpline@rnib.org.uk or visit rnib.org.uk/shop. If
you or someone you know is living with sight loss, we’re here to help.
For a full list of the information sources used in any of these titles
please contact publishing@rnib.org.uk
If you, or someone you know, is living with sight loss, we’re here to
help. Call RNIB’s Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or email us at
helpline@rnib.org.uk
Ask RNIB is the simple, easy to use way to find the answers to your
questions online – try it today at rnib.org.uk/ask
This publication is certified under the Information Standard Scheme.
Cover photograph © Anne-Marie Briscombe
© RNIB November 2013 Review date: October 2014
Registered charity number 226227 ISBN 978-1-4445-0130-8
PR12368B