First, Chris shows us a tool called belarc that will give you information about your device. You can basically get a snapshot of the system, including model information and installed software.

Next, Jonathan goes through a few settings in Microsoft Powerpoint that you will want to be sure to configure for optimal accessibility.

Finally, Desiree uses the snipping tool feature available in Microsoft windows to make screen recordings, including system and microphone audio. This is a great built-in option for recording screen reader demos with video that can then be imported into an editor like Reaper or Clipchamp for editing.

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First, Desiree demonstrates how to find, install and use the NVDA Addon for managing audio devices.

Next, Jonathan continues his series on Microsoft Powerpoint and shows you how to work with the accessible template that was created last episode with the help of ChatGPT.

Finally, Chris talks about a new resource she has discovered for reading books.

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First, Jonathan shows us how to use ChatGPT to create usable and accessible Powerpoint Templates.

Next, Desiree shows how to create a group in the messages app on iOS and how to call the group.

Finally, Chris shows how to avoid endlessly searching the Apple or Google stores for apps by using ChatGPT to make that process easier.

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First, Desiree discusses and demonstrates the Innosearch app for iOS. She ran into some accessibility barriers and is hoping to help Innosearch make their app better. The two features highlighted are: adding an address in your profile, and chatting with Innosearch through cobrowse AI about a product.

Next, Jonathan walks through creating and editing tables using Microsoft Word. He gives some helpful tips to set up table properties so that your table is accessible across pages in your document.

Finally, Chris closes us out with some fun. She will show a word puzzle game in iOS called Quartiles. It is very accessible and a lot of fun.

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First, Desiree talks about the mouse echo feature in JAWS. We go through how to enable it in default settings and then using layer commands to toggle mouse echo options.

Next, Chris goes over the layout of the new Zoom P4 Podtrack Next recorder. This unit features voice guidance, which enable blind users to change settings and menu options accessibly.

Finally, Jonathan goes over some preferred settings in Microsoft Word to make the program more efficient when using Jaws or any screen reader.

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First, Chris demonstrates using the Libby app available from her Public Library with iOS. You will get an idea of how the app is laid out and works in searching for, reading samples of and borrowing books.

Next, Desiree shows an addon for NVDA called AI Content Describer. You can haveNVDA describe images, controls, your screen and more.

Finally, Jonathan walks through setting up and using track changes in Microsoft word. He will have some tips you can use to more effectively collaborate with sighted colleagues using track changes.

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Here is another episode full of tips for several things. First, Jonathan will discuss using comments in Microsoft Word. There are many complex things that can be done with comments, these are some basics on how to add, edit and delete comments. Next, Chris will take us to the settings of the Notes app in iOS. The newest iOS updates have added some handy features in Notes and you can manage them in settings.

Finally, Desiree discusses the JAWS virtual cursor. What is it? Why would you want to turn it off when the default for JAWS is to have it turned on? Desiree shows two scenario’s where turning off the virtual cursor enhances access to some features.

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We missed everyone last week, there were a lot of different things going on with family, but we are back with another episode full of tips for you. First, Jonathan shows how to set up and use the Quick Access Toolbar (QAT) in word. This can make you more efficient performing tasks you do often when writing documents. Then, Desiree talks about the new phone app view in iOS 26. Some may like it, but Desiree was glad to find an alternative. Finally, Chris demonstrates an app that can help you feel more comfortable in voiceover, especially if you are just starting out. You can find out more about this app and others by visiting: Apps – Techopolis Online Solutions

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In this episode, we discuss a few new tips and issues we have found with recent Apple OS updates and Jonathan continues giving us more skills in Microsoft word. First, Chris will talk about an annoyance she has found with iOS 26 and then a handy new voiceover feature. Next, Jonathan discusses templates, why you would use them and then demonstrates how to create, save and open them in word. Finally, Desiree talks about and walks through her mixed feelings about the apple watch workout app in the newest OS update.

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This episode covers several different technologies. First, Desiree shows us the addon store inside of NVDA; how to search for an install addons that will add features to the software. Next, Chris shows us how to deal with automated systems on the phone that require you to press one or enter an extension after dialing the phone number; she shows this in both iOS and Android. This would be handy for dialing in to a zoom meeting or conference call.

Finally, Jonathan goes over setting heading features in the styles configuration settings in word using JAWS 2025. He will show setting up the font type and size, the color of the text and more.

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Today’s episode has a variety of tips. First, Jonathan is back with another tip using word. He will discuss how to modify styles in word, namely the normal paragraph style. Then, Desiree talks about an app for iOS called ScribeMe. She shows how the app works when you snap a photo and have it described. Lastly, Chris will show you how to take a webpage you regularly visit and make it an icon on your home screen in iOS. She also shows how to move the saved icon or shortcut to the page into a specified folder. We also introduce some new music, so see what you think.

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This episode gives tips on a variety of tech. First, Chris discusses and walks through flagging emails in iOS, including how to find your flagged emails and change their color. Then, Jonathan is back with us discussing ordered and unordered lists and how to create them in Microsoft Word using JAWS; you can also check out his advocacy podcast at: Http://www.demandouraccess.com Finally, Desiree will talk about Microsoft’s built-in screen reader Narrator and show how to change some basic settings; she will be going more in depth with Narrator on her Learning Blind Tech With Desiree Renae podcast, which you can find in the Unmute Podcast Network feed or on her website:

Http://www.desireerenae.com

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This episode is packed with some fabulous tips. First, Desiree will demonstrate enabling the new Detailed Response option for meta glasses in the Metaview app on iOS. Next, Chris discusses the Zoom Adjustable Desk Light For Video; you can purchase this tool at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D2XMLRL3?ref=cm_sw_r_cso_cp_apin_dp_Q2N8HT6K1C6PNYQ2Z476_1&ref_=cm_sw_r_cso_cp_apin_dp_Q2N8HT6K1C6PNYQ2Z476_1&social_share=cm_sw_r_cso_cp_apin_dp_Q2N8HT6K1C6PNYQ2Z476_1&titleSource=true&csmig=1&th=1 Finally, a new contributor to bytes, Jonathan Simeone, joins us to give tips on setting heading levels in Microsoft Word and JAWS. Jonathan is a lawyer and uses Microsoft Office with JAWS daily to create legal documents and trainings on ADA laws. He also has an advocacy podcast: https://www.demandouraccess.com

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We apologize for the slight delay of this week’s episode, but we hope you’ll find these tips helpful. First, Desiree shows how to change volume settings in JAWS using layer commands. Then Chris talks about a new tech gadget she has recently purchased, I think I am going to get one myself. Finally, Marty discusses the today view in iOS and how you can customize it to give you the quick view you want on your iPhone.

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In this episode of Digital Bytes, we are again offering some helpful tips. First, Chris shows us how to use NFB Newsline on Android, including finding and sharing articles. Next, Marty will talk through the differences between thunderbolt and USBC ports and some advantages to thunderbolt. Finally, Desiree will show how to use the video feature of ChatGPT.

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In this episode, Desiree will walk through some basics with the VVoice Vista app on iPhone, including a small taste of the app while walking. Then Chris presents part three of her series using ChatGPT with iOS, focusing on the menus. Finally, Marty will give some travel tips using Apple air tags and talk through some options you have with that accessory.

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In this episode of Digital Bytes, we have some great tips and demos. First, Marty will talk through the process of sharing your contact information in iOS, including deciding which parts of information you want to share. Next, we will have part two of Chris's ChatGPT series, where she will walk through the settings in the iPhone app for ChatGPT. And finally, Desiree will demonstrate using find my in order to locate her all-too-curious cat.

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Notes go here

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Then, Michael and Marty dive into a set of summer travel tips:

- Wi-Fi Safety on the Go: Avoid public Wi-Fi when possible. Use your mobile data plan or consider purchasing extra data for travel. A VPN is also a good option to keep your data encrypted and secure from snoopers on public networks.

- Password Managers: Using a password manager adds another layer of protection when accessing sensitive sites. If a phishing attempt tries to fool you with a lookalike website, your password manager won't autofill if the URL doesn't match exactly.

- Apple Passwords App: iCloud Keychain is now available in a standalone app called Passwords across Apple devices, offering easy and VoiceOver-accessible password management.

Next, the conversation shifts to Aira and how it can be a huge asset while traveling:

- Aira offers free access at many airports, hotels, and public venues.

- Michael shares his personal experiences using Aira to navigate airports, hotels, and even find food during long layovers.

- Aira agents have access to indoor maps at some locations, making navigation much easier for blind travelers.

- Additional options like the Intuit Small Business Plan can provide extra free Aira minutes for eligible users.

Whether you're flying for business, attending a convention, or just taking a summer vacation, these tips will help you stay connected, safe, and independent.

For more info on Aira access locations: aira.io/our-partners

As always, visit unmute.show for updates and more content, or send your questions and feedback to feedback@unmute.show. You can also subscribe to Digital Bytes as a standalone podcast anywhere you get your podcasts.

If you want, I can also prep your SEO-friendly description version if you're using this for your podcast upload or YouTube. Shall I?

• Michael shares how to customize VoiceOver commands on the Mac using the Commands tab in VoiceOver Utility. Learn how to assign custom AppleScripts (like announcing remaining seconds in a minute) to specific key combos, thanks to tips from Chanel, Herbie, and Brad.
• Quick Tip: Use VO + Fn + F8 (or Command + 8 in the Utility) to get started.
• Want Michael’s script? Reach out to him on Mastodon: @payown@dragonscave.space.
• Chanel dives into the often-overlooked search box in iOS Settings, showing how it can surface deep, hard-to-find options like:
• Auto-Lock duration
• Preventing the lock button from ending calls
• Accessibility settings like "Stop sounds when locked"
• Hidden Siri and notification controls
• Marty explains how to toggle the Power On/Off chime on your iPhone, giving you more control over audio feedback during restarts.
• Navigate to: Settings > Accessibility > Audio & Visual > Power On & Off Sounds

Stay tuned for more practical tips in future bites!

• Travel Tip: Chris breaks down everything you need to know about flying with battery packs—what’s allowed in your carry-on, how many milliamp hours different devices use, and tips to avoid TSA headaches. If you're packing a power bank this summer, this is for you.
• Tech How-To: Marty answers a common question—how to keep your iPhone screen on longer. He walks you through the auto-lock settings and shares a few cautions to keep your battery healthy and your phone secure.
• Tool Spotlight: Michael introduces Gravity Forms, a flexible and accessible WordPress plugin that powers everything from simple contact forms to complex multi-page surveys and payment systems. Plus, he shares tips for organizing form fields, managing access with remote assistants, and extending functionality using Gravity View and Gravity Wiz.

Whether you're prepping for takeoff or building your next form-driven project, this episode has practical tips you can use right away.

• iPhone 16 Wireless Charging: Marty clears up confusion around the iPhone 16e’s charging options. While it doesn’t include MagSafe, it does support wireless charging (just at slower speeds). Plus, he shares how a MagSafe-compatible case can expand your accessory options—though not your charging speed.

• Smart Kitchen Real Talk: Chris shares a personal story about smart pressure cookers, app shutdowns, and why you shouldn’t depend too heavily on voice assistant integrations. She offers practical workarounds using AIRA, Be My Eyes, Be My AI, and tactile labels to keep cooking smart—even when your apps ghost you.

• Accessible Amateur Radio: Michael gives a hands-on (and ears-on) overview of the Kenwood TH-D74A handheld radio. Learn how this device provides spoken feedback, what the keypad layout is like, and how to scan frequencies and memories without needing a screen.

As always, if you’ve got questions or feedback, email us at feedback@unmute.show.

• Dock More Apps on iOS (with Marty): Marty demonstrates a clever VoiceOver trick that lets you fit more apps in your iPhone or iPad dock by creating folders.
• Hands-On with the Insta360 Link 2 Webcam (with Michael): Michael shares his first impressions of a $150 AI-powered 4K webcam that auto-tracks your face, mounts securely, and sounds great—despite some software accessibility hiccups.
• HID Braille Displays on Android (with Chris): Chris brings great news for Braille users—HID-compatible displays like those from HumanWare now work with Android 15 and One UI 7.0 on Samsung phones. She shares a few quirks and tips for getting your input method back under control.

Tip Jar members: Watch for an upcoming audio comparison in your exclusive feed—Michael puts the Insta360 mic head-to-head with the MacBook Pro M3 and the Shure Beta 87A.

• Hazel Workflow for Mac: Michael walks through setting up a rule in Hazel to automatically delete .flac files from a Dropbox folder if they're older than one day. It’s a hands-on demo using VoiceOver and shows how powerful Hazel is for keeping folders tidy with minimal effort.
• Apple BRF Files for Braille Users: Chris shares a great resource—Apple’s Braille-ready user guides for nearly all of their products. If you’re using a braille display or an NLS eReader, these downloadable guides are made for you. And if you don’t read braille? He’s got you covered with alternative playback tips.
• Tech Tip: Restart your device with Siri. Just say, “Restart my device,” and confirm—it’s that easy.

📩 Got feedback or tips? Email us at feedback@unmute.show