Audio Technology

Audio books

Audio books, or talking books, can be sourced from a range of providers including low vision agencies, council libraries and audio book websites. The content can be played on a range of devices including standard CD players, MP3 devices and tablet computers. Some newspapers are also available in audio format.

DAISY

The Digital Accessible Information System, or DAISY, allows the reader to play DAISY books on a computer or a digital playback device called a DAISY player. There are a range of DAISY players available depending on individual needs. Devices are available through low vision organisations that also have library services to support the delivery of books to the DAISY players.

Tablet computers

Tablet computers are wireless, portable computers with a touch screen. Tablets are typically smaller than a notebook computer but larger than a smart phone. Like an eBook reader, they can hold hundreds of books which can be read either with enlarged text on the screen or in audio format. There are many brands of tablet computers available including Apple iPad and Samsung Galaxy Tab. 

eBook readers

An eBook reader is a portable electronic device designed primarily for the purpose of reading digital books, newspapers and other publications. The pages of an eBook appear in print on a screen with push buttons or touch screen gestures used to turn the pages or place bookmarks. eBook readers can store many hundreds of books and new content can be purchased via the internet. There are many brands of eBook readers available including Kindle (from Amazon) and Reader (from Sony).

Document readers

Document readers can be very useful for people with low vision. Document readers interpret printed information and convert it to speech using a synthesised voice (that can be adjusted for different accents). Some are motion activated and know when you have turned a page. Some can be connected to a computer and the reading materials converted to large print, audio or computer files.