The shuffles have always been good for those with VI because of their inherent screenless usability. The biggest barrier is the Itunes software which is virtually the only way to manage content. Itunes 8 is much more accessible out of the box than any previous version in term of it's ability to work with assistive technologies (screenreader et al) but it remains complex and challenging for all but confident users. Personally I prefer the Zen Stone range, they are also screenless (providing you avoid the stone+ models) only a little bigger than the shuffles (although quite a bit bigger than this new shuffle which has halved in size because the control has been moved to the headphone lead), and you can manage content through Windows Explorer, no additional software required, although the creative software which you can use to update firmware, check battery levels etc works well with screenreaders too.
With the controls on the headphone lead as with this new shuffle you lose the ability to swop out headphones either for a better set or when they get damaged by spending too long rolled up in a pocket.
The stones are cheaper too, under £20 for a 2gig version.
So, shuffles useful? Yes, but there are better alternatives if you can get over them not having the Ipod brand.
Adrian Higginbotham,
Manager, Leading edge research
Tel: Direct dial 024 7679 7333 - Becta switchboard 02476-416994
Email: [log in to unmask]
Web: http://www.becta.org.uk/
BECTA, Millburn Hill Road, Science Park, Coventry, CV4 7JJ
-----Original Message-----
From: A discussion list for Assistive Technology professionals. [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Paul Doyle
Sent: 12 March 2009 11:00
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: New iPod Shuffle
Hi all,
Does this new chappy have an application for the visually impaired and those with poor literacy?
http://www.apple.com/ipodshuffle/
Cheers
Paul
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