6 Common Myths About Guide Dogs
In the summer of 2013, I decided to transition from walking with a cane to having a guide dog. I was matched with a sweet black lab named Karleen. Karleen helps me with many...
Sofia Gallo
Sofia Gallo writes for the Equal Entry blog about her experiences as a blind technology user, from working with her guide dog to using screen readers and braille.
Accessible Emoji: Enhancing Text Communication for All Users
Introduction Emoji have become an essential part of text conversations. They are the closest thing we have to a universal language that anyone can understand, including voiceover...
Is This Sweater Purple or Lilac?: Accessibility and the Need for Inclusive Product Descriptions
Fifty Shades of Grey Technology has made it possible for legally blind people like myself to do many things independently. However, shopping for clothes is arguably not one of...
Navigating with Accessible Pedestrian Signals in Washington, DC
As a DC transplant from New York City, I am used to having to cross busy intersections with a lot of traffic as a legally blind pedestrian. With proper mobility training, I am able...
Top 10 Features for Designing Websites for Screen Readers
While I am not familiar with the technical aspects of web design, I use screen readers to navigate the web for both work and personal use. I am comfortable with advanced screen...
Apple’s AppleVis: A User’s Experience
As far as technology companies go, Apple has had a commitment to accessibility much earlier than most. It introduced VoiceOver to Mac computers in 2005 and to the iPhone in 2009....
Navigating with Two Mainstream Map Apps: Which One Works Better?
I have written in previous articles on this blog about my passion for navigating unfamiliar places. I love going for walks around the neighborhood, finding new restaurants, and...
Some Thoughts on the Air Carrier Access Act
In November 2013, the Department of Transportation issued new rules under the Air Carrier Access Act of 1986, requiring airline websites and ticket kiosks to be accessible to...
“Microsoft Soundscape: A User Review”
In March 2018, Microsoft released Soundscape — a free iOS app that uses 3D audio to help visually impaired people create a mental map of what is around. The app works by allowing...
Using Microsoft’s Seeing AI in Day-to-Day Life
An Introduction Last month, Microsoft introduced Seeing AI – an app that would describe the world for visually impaired people using artificial intelligence technology. Due to my...