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Unapologetically Blind

Category: All About That Teck

Assistive tech rules our lives, lets learn more and build from our own understandings.

  • The Pivot: From Job Hunt Burnout to a New Digital Frontier

    The Pivot: From Job Hunt Burnout to a New Digital Frontier

    Let’s be honest: the job hunt in the current landscape is more than just “challenging.” It is a grueling, often scary rollercoaster that tests your patience and your self-worth. If you’ve been feeling the weight of endless applications, ghosting, and “standard” rejection emails, you aren’t alone.

    But instead of letting the stress win, I’ve decided to change the game. I’m shifting my focus from waiting for a “yes” to creating my own “yes.” Today, I’m excited to share the new ecosystem I’ve been building—and how you can be a part of it.

    The Reality of the Modern Job Search

    The tech and creative markets have changed. We’ve all seen the LinkedIn posts about “1,000+ applicants in 2 hours.” It’s an environment that breeds anxiety. The uncertainty of when the next paycheck will arrive or if a recruiter will ever actually read your resume is a heavy burden to carry.

    I reached a point where I realized that my value shouldn’t be defined by a hiring manager’s inbox. That realization sparked a pivot. If the traditional door is locked, it’s time to build a new house.

    A New Chapter on Patreon

    To create a sustainable path forward, I’ve officially launched my Patreon.

    This isn’t just a “tip jar.” It’s a community for those who want a behind-the-scenes look at how I’m navigating the gig economy, the tools I’m using, and the lessons I’m learning in real-time. By becoming a patron, you’re not just supporting my work; you’re getting direct access to my creative process, early updates on new builds, and exclusive insights that I don’t share anywhere else. It’s where I document the “how” behind the products I create.

    Creating Accessible Guides and Resources

    One thing I realized during my own job hunt is that high-quality information is often gatekept or overpriced. I want to change that by focusing on accessible content.

    I am now producing and selling specialized guides and digital resources designed to be both high-value and affordable. These aren’t just theoretical ebooks; they are practical, “no-fluff” blueprints built from my own experiences.

    The AI Front-End Revolution

    The most exciting part of this pivot is my new storefront for AI-generated front-end applications.

    We are living in a golden age of development where AI can help us bridge the gap between idea and execution. I’ve been leveraging advanced AI workflows to build sleek, functional, and ready-to-deploy front-end components and applications. My goal is to make high-end design accessible to everyone.

    • For Founders: Get a professional landing page or a complex dashboard prototype in hours, not weeks.
    • For Developers: Use these AI-optimized builds as robust boilerplates to jumpstart your own projects and save dozens of hours on styling and layout.
    • For Small Businesses: Modernize your digital presence with cutting-edge UI/UX that looks like it cost thousands, but was built for the speed of the modern web.

    Embracing the Freelance Gig Economy

    Finally, I’m leaning fully into the freelance gig economy. Success in 2026  isn’t just about one “big” job; it’s about a diversified portfolio of projects. By creating and selling these digital assets—the guides, the apps, and the content—I’m proving that the “gig life” can be a path to creative freedom and financial independence rather than just a survival tactic.

    Join Me on This Journey

    The job hunt was scary because it felt like I had no control. This new path is different. It’s about ownership, creativity, and community.

    If you’ve ever felt stuck in the “application loop,” I invite you to follow along. Check out the new guides, browse the AI application shop, or join the inner circle on Patreon. Let’s stop waiting for opportunities and start building them.

    JOIN MY PATREON
  • Transformative Role of AI in Today’s Society

    Transformative Role of AI in Today’s Society

    As I write this piece on Artificial Intelligence, the irony of using AI tools to edit and enhance my final work is not lost on me. It raises a core question: Is this not precisely what AI is intended for? In today’s environment, AI holds a very clear and powerful place. However, it also presents a danger: without careful oversight, its unrestricted use could lead to problematic outcomes. These are my raw thoughts, revised for clarity and impact.

    The Power of AI: Enhancement and AccessibilityContent Creation & Editing

    For many, this is where AI truly thrives. I utilize AI for editing, recognizing that I am not always the most proficient with language. The power of AI has allowed me to quickly draft my thoughts and use simple prompts in tools like Gemini to revise, clean up, and significantly improve my writing.

    Furthermore, AI is a champion for accessibility. For individuals envisioning amazing visual content but unable to use physical tools to create an image or video due to visual or other impairments, AI steps in. We can enter exactly what we imagine, and the technology generates the creative output rapidly, democratizing content creation.

    Democratizing Development with AI

    Do you have a revolutionary application idea but lack coding knowledge? Tools such as Google AI Studio exist to bridge this gap. You can now build a fully functional website or web app simply by describing your ideas and allowing the power of AI to generate the necessary code. This development capability has opened the world of tech creation to a much broader audience, freeing individuals from the constraints of expensive experts or complex learning curves. I have personally delved into tools like AI Studio and continue to explore their creative potential for personal projects, with aspirations of developing solutions for others.

    The Critical Challenge: Education and Ethics

    The most significant issue facing society today is the pervasive lack of education regarding the responsible use of AI. We have made these powerful tools easy to access and largely restriction-free. This has had a massive, detrimental impact on the quality of self-created academic and creative content—from essays and papers to mathematical and scientific work.

    We are seeing students at all levels harnessing AI’s power. While some use it to enhance their work positively, a concerning number are using AI to replace their own effort entirely, rather than using it to supplement and improve their foundational knowledge.

    AI as a Personal Accessibility Tool

    For me, AI is an indispensable daily tool. Whether I’m generating content for my blog, editing cover letters and resumes, or even building a utility for navigation, AI is a key part of my workflow. I consider it a tool, not a production assistant or a finalizer of my work. My process always involves writing my own blogs first, ensuring the content is authentically mine and not simply a regurgitation of ideas from another entity. I also enjoy using AI to create photos and videos, as it enables me to manifest my personal, creative vision in an accessible manner.

    Conclusion

    Artificial Intelligence is here to stay, and its trajectory is one of permanent growth. As a society, our imperative is not to resist it, but to collectively learn how to use it, responsibly expand its capabilities, and establish a firm ethical framework for its deployment. We must continue to generate our own original ideas and content, leveraging AI only to enhance them. Far too many people are currently using AI to build their entire content from the ground up with a minimal self-thought-out process. We must not surrender our individual creative abilities; instead, we must harness the power of AI to make our personal creations better.

  • I Did It, It Is Done – My Final Shift Into CHROME OS

    I Did It, It Is Done – My Final Shift Into CHROME OS

    Alright, tech aficionados, gather ’round! I’ve just executed a major OS migration, a digital leap of epic proportions! 🚀

    Operation: Windows Exodus is a GO!

    Yes, you heard it right! I’ve performed a clean uninstall of the Windows paradigm from my daily driver experience. The digital curtains have dropped, the proverbial “blue screen of sadness” is banished, and a new era dawns! 🌅

    The Great System Audit: A Deep Dive into My Digital Ecosystem 🔍

    For weeks, nay, months, I’ve been running a rigorous analysis of my computational needs. With a fleet of three devices at my disposal, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery: “Which OS truly resonates with my workflow? Which platform delivers the optimal user experience?” After meticulous data collection and analysis (read: staring intensely at screens), a clear winner emerged. 🏆

    Farewell, Windows! Initiating Chrome OS Protocol! 💻➡️🌐

    For a significant portion of my digital existence, Windows has been my primary operating system, a stalwart companion in the realm of personal computing (save for that brief, experimental phase with macOS). However, the allure of Chrome OS, with its streamlined interface, intuitive functionality, and cloud-centric architecture, proved irresistible. 💖

    Let’s face it: my once-beloved Windows rig was languishing, a relic of a bygone era. Usage logs revealed a startling truth: a mere three brief encounters in the past six months! It was time to pull the plug. 🔌

    Windows, you will always hold a sentimental place in my digital history, but my needs have evolved. I crave a lean, mean, computing machine—a system that “just works,” without the bloat and overhead of legacy platforms. 🤖

    No more wrestling with antivirus software, deciphering convoluted file storage hierarchies, or navigating the treacherous waters of inconsistent cloud synchronization. The days of OneDrive vs. Google Drive are over! ⚔️

    Engaging Chrome OS: A Quantum Leap in User Experience! ⚡

    I’ve embraced the Chrome OS ecosystem, a paradigm shift towards a more efficient, secure, and cloud-integrated computing experience. The sleek, minimalist interface of my new Chrome OS laptops is a breath of fresh air, a testament to the power of streamlined design. 🌬️

    This isn’t just a switch; it’s a strategic upgrade. It’s about optimizing my workflow, maximizing my productivity, and embracing the future of computing. Join me on this exciting journey into the realm of Chrome OS! 🚀✨

  • My Screen Reader Experience: A World of Choices

    My Screen Reader Experience: A World of Choices

    For years, JAWS (Job Access With Speech) was the screen reader in North America, alongside the built-in VoiceOver on macOS. Then came NVDA, shaking things up. Finally, we have the ubiquitous ChromeVox, the built-in screen reader on all Chrome OS devices. Let’s explore my experiences with each, considering their platforms and target users.

    JAWS: Sink or Swim?

    This shark-themed screen reader was one of the first on Windows. I remember it running on DOS/Windows 3.1 as a separate piece of hardware – talk about ancient history! Today, you can download it… after paying a hefty price. Last I checked, a license cost around $1,000 Canadian, not including updates.

    Personally, I found JAWS incredibly frustrating. It always seemed slower than me, struggling to keep up with my typing and lagging during simple tasks. I later realized it’s a resource hog, demanding massive amounts of RAM. While they recommend 4GB, I’d suggest nothing less than 8GB, preferably 12GB. Anything less leads to lag, slowdowns, and crashes.

    VoiceOver: A Breath of Fresh Air

    Just as I was about to give up on JAWS, I discovered VoiceOver thanks to the iPhone. I fell in love with its ease of use, clean functionality, and ability to keep pace with me. This led me to buy a Mac. I lived in the Apple ecosystem for several years during university, using a MacBook Air and a MacBook Pro. It was incredibly liberating to use a system that thrived on 8GB of RAM, felt fast and responsive, and rarely crashed. VoiceOver on Mac was, and still is, one of my favorite screen readers.

    NVDA: Free, Adaptable, and Flexible

    NVDA is FREE! This amazing open-source software is flexible, adaptable, and highly functional, and it won’t break the bank. They do accept donations, and you can choose how much (or nothing) to give.

    NVDA breathed new life into Windows for me. It’s fast, responsive, adaptable, and smoother than JAWS. Dare I say it’s the Windows equivalent of VoiceOver? I’ve been using NVDA on my personal Windows laptop for five years and love it. It can do everything JAWS could, and even allows for reprogramming (if you know Python, which I don’t).

    ChromeVox: My New Love

    Okay, enough with the sappiness… but ChromeVox on Chrome OS is truly smooth and unique. It operates within Chrome OS and provides the same system-level access as other screen readers. The key difference? It runs amazingly well even on sub-$500 Chromebooks. Whether you have 4GB or 16GB of RAM, a 12-inch or 16-inch screen, ChromeVox performs. It connects to most mainstream braille displays and has a built-in magnification system, though the built-in magnifier isn’t as flexible as I’d like for my dual-screen setup. Still, we’re focusing on ChromeVox’s fluid function.

    From the moment you power on your Chromebook, you’re a key command away from independent system setup. Just press Ctrl+Alt+Z, and you’ll hear that familiar Google voice.

    I’ve been daily driving ChromeVox for several weeks now, and intermittently for years, and I can honestly say it will soon be my primary screen reader. I’m not even sure a traditional PC has a place in my life anymore.

    Conclusion

    The world of screen readers has evolved significantly. From the expensive and resource-heavy JAWS to the streamlined VoiceOver, the adaptable NVDA, and the surprisingly powerful ChromeVox, users now have a range of choices. My journey has highlighted the importance of accessibility, performance, and cost-effectiveness. While each screen reader has its strengths and weaknesses, the rise of free and efficient options like NVDA and ChromeVox has democratized access to technology for visually impaired users. Ultimately, the “best” screen reader depends on individual needs and preferences, but the availability of diverse options is a huge win for accessibility.

  • The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly: Food Delivery App Accessibility

    The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly: Food Delivery App Accessibility

    In today’s fast-paced world, the gig economy has exploded, with Uber Eats, SkipTheDishes, DoorDash, and Instacart dominating the Canadian landscape. While these services offer convenience, especially for people with disabilities, a closer look reveals a darker side. Let’s explore the accessibility of customer service, communication with delivery drivers/shoppers, app accessibility itself, and, crucially, pricing models. Each has its share of “sketchy” elements and raises concerns about long-term use, particularly for those with disabilities or fixed incomes.

    The Good: A Game Changer for Many

    These apps have undeniably done a lot of good, especially for people with disabilities. During the pandemic, they provided a lifeline for immunocompromised individuals, allowing them to access groceries and meals without risking close contact. They offer menu access for those with vision loss and reduce the stress of grocery shopping. The benefits are numerous, but to avoid boring you, let’s move on to the less rosy aspects.

    The Bad: Pricing and Transparency Issues

    Despite the advantages, several aspects of these platforms are problematic. Pricing models and product availability are particularly concerning.

    You might find items in your local grocery store that aren’t available on Instacart. This likely stems from purchase volume; items with low demand through the platform probably won’t be listed. While understandable from a business perspective, it limits choices.

    Even more troubling is the price markup between in-store prices and what you see on the apps. This can range from a few cents to several dollars per item. Some stores advertise “in-store pricing,” but many don’t disclose whether their app prices match or exceed in-store costs. Often, even when advertised as “same as in-store,” prices are higher. This inconsistency creates a financial burden and confusion. How can you budget when you’re unsure of the real price?

    Finally, the hidden fees are a major issue. Why aren’t all fees (service fees, delivery fees, etc.) disclosed upfront? Why are we only informed at checkout? Why isn’t the service fee structure explained before we even start shopping? This feels predatory, especially for those on fixed incomes who need to stretch their budgets. Imagine having to drastically reduce your order at the last minute because of unexpected fees.

    The Ugly: SkipTheDishes and its Accessibility Fail

    Now, for the “ugly” part, I’m calling out SkipTheDishes. If you’ve ever had an issue with a SkipTheDishes order, you’re probably familiar with their in-app customer service chat. While I understand the shift away from phone support, this platform is deeply flawed for visually impaired users who rely on screen readers. The chat function is only partially accessible. You can read your own messages, but the customer service representative’s replies are often unreadable by screen readers. SkipTheDishes has been made aware of this accessibility issue and has yet to fix it.

    My workaround? Facebook Messenger. Yes, I’m using social media to resolve order issues because their dedicated in-app support is inaccessible. This is unacceptable.

    Conclusion: A Call for Change

    I’ve stopped using SkipTheDishes, even if they sometimes have better menu options. Instacart, despite its pricing and fee opacity, remains the most viable option for grocery delivery for now.

    I hope this post makes you aware of the challenges you might encounter, the confusing pricing and fee structures, and the potential difficulties in getting customer support. We need to demand better from these companies. Accessibility shouldn’t be an afterthought; it should be a core principle. Transparency in pricing and fees is essential. And customer support should be accessible to everyone, regardless of disability. These platforms offer a valuable service, but they need to do better to ensure they’re truly serving the entire community.

  • Lets Talk Tech – Dive Into My Ecosystem

    Lets Talk Tech – Dive Into My Ecosystem

    Hey everyone! Let’s talk tech. Over the past few years, I’ve amassed quite a collection, some thanks to a fantastic program through Google, and some I’ve bought myself. All of it has impacted my life, made me think differently about accessibility, and introduced me to platforms I now use every single day. So, let’s dive into my world of smartphones, smartwatches, and computers/tablets. (We’ll save smart home tech, like Firesticks and Chromecasts, for another post!)

    Smartphones: From Flips To Candy Bar Phones

    My current daily driver is the Samsung Galaxy S23+, but it’s a recent switch. Before this, I was rocking the amazing Z Flip 5. Why the change? It was really a matter of opportunity.

    The Z Flip 5: A Flashy Throwback

    The Z Flip 5 was, and still is, my absolute favorite phone. Even with its slightly unusual screen ratio, it was incredible. The outer screen was so functional, it blew my mind. Pair it with a good case, and you’ve got a flashy, flippy throwback to the early 2010s and those iconic flip phones. Remember the original Motorola RAZR? Enough said.

    The Z Flip 5’s One Downside

    The only real con? The inner screen. Because it’s flexible, it needs a special screen protector that costs about $80 to replace here in Alberta. Having to do that every six months gets expensive.

    My S23+: Back to Basics (But Better)

    I got a great deal on the S23+, and it made me realize why I still love the classic “candy bar” style. While I miss the Z Flip’s foldability, the S23+ has a bigger battery, better cooling, and oh my goodness, a much better camera. Samsung makes amazing devices across the board – you have to give them that – but the camera on the S23+ is a vital tool for me.

    A History of Phones

    I’ve used everything from a Samsung S5 to the S23+, a Pixel 4A, Moto devices, and even an iPhone (gasp!). So why Samsung? Well, it ties into my next category…

    Smartwatches: More Than Just Time

    My smartwatch journey started with a cheap, used Asus Android Wear watch. I was hooked, not just for telling time, but for notifications, step counting, and so much more. And they’re accessible!

    After that first watch shuffled off this mortal coil, I got a Mobvoi TicWatch 5E. It was the more budget-friendly version of the TicWatch 5, and I loved it. I did have some minor accessibility issues with the Mobvoi apps, but the watch itself cemented my love for smartwatches.

    Then, I found a deal on a Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic – you know, the one that doubled as a fidget spinner! I used it for a few months until that update. You know, the one that was supposed to fix the bricking issues from the previous update… and promptly bricked my watch.

    So, I needed a new one. Tough choice: something similar in size and sportier, or the Watch 5 Pro – chunkier, but tougher with titanium and sapphire glass? I went Pro, because let’s be honest, I’m rough on my tech. It’s still going strong after three years! And the Watch 5 Pro is a big reason I stick with Samsung phones. Features like ECG and blood pressure monitoring are unique to the Samsung ecosystem, and as someone with high blood pressure, those are important to me.

    Laptops: From Bricks to Beasts

    My laptop history is… eventful. I had a Lenovo IdeaPad that bricked itself with corrupted files. Then, I got a used 17-inch HP EliteBook, which was amazing (wi-fi issues aside). On a whim, I bought a Lenovo ThinkPad 2-in-1, and loved it! It was my daily driver until it couldn’t keep up anymore.

    Enter the Samsung Galaxy Book! This sleek, slim, non-touchscreen machine was, and still is, a micro-beast. It’s small but powerful.

    But, I have to confess, my true love right now is Chromebooks. Thanks to that Google program, I got to try a Pixelbook, and I still use it daily at work. I also loved the Lenovo Duet 5, which I traded with my partner for her monstrous 16-inch Asus CX5601 Chromebook. That Asus? My new favorite. It’s fast, has an amazing keyboard and trackpad, and all the ports I need.

    My current home workspace setup? My Samsung Galaxy Book connected to a beautiful 32-inch monitor and a 42 or 46-inch TV. And beside that beast, I have my trusty Brother monochrome laserjet printer.

    Tablets: Less Used These Days

    Since I have a 2-in-1 touchscreen laptop, I don’t use tablets much anymore. I do have a Pixel Tablet, but it mostly lives on its dock in the bedroom. I’ve used everything from iPads to Samsung Galaxy Tabs, and they all have their pros and cons. It really depends on what you need a tablet for.

    So, that’s a glimpse into my tech journey. I love how each piece has influenced my next purchase. I think I’m heading towards a full Chrome OS ecosystem. I’ve already ditched my Microsoft 365 subscription and kept Google Workspace for the extra Drive space. Google is making serious waves, creating functional and fantastic mobile operating systems. Android and Chrome OS? They’re my daily drivers.

  • Blue Bubble, Green Bubble: Does It Really Matter?

    Blue Bubble, Green Bubble: Does It Really Matter?

    The iPhone vs. Android debate is a long and storied one, dating back to the era of the Blackberry’s reign and the iPod Touch’s transformation into a smartphone. A time when Google’s Nexus devices were just emerging and Android was a fresh-faced operating system, offering a world of mobile choices.

    So, Android or iPhone?

    In the early days, the iPhone held a significant advantage, particularly when viewed through the lens of accessibility. This wasn’t a matter of personal preference, but rather a practical reality. My own experience in September 2010 solidified this. While I was enamored with the newly released HTC Desire, a Telus representative demonstrated the stark difference in out-of-the-box accessibility between iPhones and Androids. At that time, the iPhone was simply more accessible. It’s important to note that this was my experience, and I later learned about software that could enhance Android accessibility. However, for this narrative, I’ll stick with my lived experience.

    Thanks to that Telus representative, I walked out with a shiny iPhone 3Gs. Its accessibility, right out of the box, made it a great device. For years, I remained loyal to the iPhone, upgrading from the 3Gs to the 4, 5, and eventually the 7+. Familiarity and reliable accessibility were key factors. Then came Android 4.4.4 KitKat and the stunning Samsung Galaxy S5.

    I took the plunge, with both excitement and trepidation! I traded the “safety” of iMessage and the familiar iPhone display for the green bubble world of Android. I fell in love. Android offered accessibility, customization, and expandable storage. This marked the beginning of my Android journey and my introduction to the Samsung ecosystem.

    Android: Strong, Free, and Mine

    Loving the freedom of the S5, I upgraded to the Samsung Galaxy Note 5. Sleek, slim, powerful, and boasting an amazing stylus (more of a fidget toy than a functional tool, but I loved it nonetheless). This device introduced me to mobile payments and a new level of accessibility thanks to Samsung’s custom screen reader, Voice Assistant, a perfect blend of TalkBack and VoiceOver.

    A Touch of Nostalgia

    Then, in 2016, nostalgia struck. The new Blackberry Priv promised the perfect combination of a physical keyboard and a touchscreen in a sleek, sliding design. I was hooked! The screen size, the tactile keyboard, the Android operating system – it was the best of all worlds! Until, disaster struck. A cracked screen revealed the Priv’s greatest vulnerability. The repair cost far exceeded the price of a new iPhone 7+.

    Back to the Blue Bubble

    I was forced to return to the iPhone. Frankly, the accessibility wasn’t significantly different from the iPhone 5 I’d left behind. I was a little disappointed. The device was slimmer and felt better in hand, but that was about it. The changes felt minimal. A few iMessage gimmicks aside, there wasn’t much to write home about. Or was there? Let’s delve into a bit of psychology.

    The Apple Addiction

    Around that time, talk of “phone addiction” was rampant. I’ll admit it: I believe there was something about the iPhone that had a hold on me. Whether it was marketing or the device itself, I can’t say. But it was constantly in my hand. I wanted to hold it. It went everywhere with me, even to the bathroom at home. I can’t explain it, but I genuinely believe I was addicted to that phone. This became clear when I returned to Android with the Galaxy Note 9. With the Note 9, I found myself able to put it down and forget about it. I didn’t feel the need to constantly hold it, and I didn’t feel like I was missing out when it was on my desk. Apple, what did you do to our brains? Was it the marketing? The device’s coating? I’ll never know.

    My Choice?

    Since the Note 9, I’ve cycled through many phones, all Android. The reason is interesting and has become clearer over time. Today, from an accessibility perspective, Android and iOS are essentially on par. Android excels in some areas, while the iPhone still has advantages in others, depending on the user’s specific needs. Personally, I find Android more accessible due to its greater freedom. The variety of devices, screen sizes, form factors, and customized operating systems (built on the base Android system) allows for unparalleled choice. This has enabled Android to become a dominant force in the world of accessibility.

    Dare I say it? iPhone and Android are… distant cousins?

  • My Glasses: AI Eyeballs for a New Perspective

    My Glasses: AI Eyeballs for a New Perspective

    Imagine navigating the world without sight, yet yearning to understand its visual details. Or perhaps you are visually impaired or blind and seek greater access to your surroundings. We’re at a fascinating point in technology where camera-equipped glasses are becoming increasingly common, and the integration of AI takes them to a whole new level.

    Enter the Ray-Ban Meta.

    I recently acquired a pair of Ray-Ban Metas, and I’m thrilled with their sleek black frames, stylish transition green lenses, and the incredible capabilities of Meta AI. While they come in various frame colors and lens options, this particular combination resonated with me. At $459.99, they represent a significant investment, but I believe the freedom they provide is priceless.

    A Newfound Freedom

    These glasses have opened up a world of environmental awareness for me. From the trees lining the street to road signs and bus stop information, they allow me to explore and understand my surroundings independently. I no longer feel overwhelmed or reliant on visual interpreters, sighted friends, or family to describe what’s around me. Perhaps most exciting of all, I can now read restaurant menus accessibly and on my own.

    Unexpected Accessibility

    The Ray-Ban Metas weren’t originally designed with visually impaired individuals in mind. However, they’ve become a mainstream, affordable, and functional piece of assistive technology. While some may have concerns about Meta’s vision and values, the fact remains that this large corporation has created a system that works effectively and at a reasonable price point. For me, that’s a win.

    The Price of Independence

    I’m more than willing to pay $459.99 for the freedom, enhanced independence, and increased access to information that these glasses provide. For me, the value is immeasurable.

  • How Does AI Help Me With My Blog Writing?

    So, guys lets face it. I am no author, I am not a great writer, I most certainly am not a wordsmith. So, how are my posts so well written? Well the answer is simple. I use AI. You read that right, I use AI to help me with my writing.

    My Process

    So, much like most people, i create a rough draft, and then edit that. After this, I copy the text over to the AI of choice, in my case I use Google Gemini. Using the prompt “rewrite the following content as a blog post”. After it does its thing and generates a beautiful draft, I will depending on wording, flow etc use the text it generates or I will go in and make usually some pretty small tweaks.

    The Result

    The end result of my using AI to help me write is a more fluid, structured and polished piece of work. All of the ideas of the post are my own, the content is of my own work; however, the content is more reflective of what I would like to present to the world. I want to present a polished well written post, as that is what will keep your eyes on my content right? 

    Lets Be Transparent

    So in the idea of transparency, the content you are reading right at this moment is the raw content, the content that is seen before really any editing. I will post the AI assisted content below. I will let you be the one to choose, is my own content better, or is the AI assisted content easier to read and more polished?

    AI EDITED TIME

    How AI Helps Me Write My Blog Posts

    Let’s be honest, I’m not a natural writer. I don’t have a way with words, and crafting compelling prose isn’t my forte. So how do I manage to create well-written blog posts? The answer is simple: I use AI.

    My Writing Process

    Like many others, I start with a rough draft. After some initial editing, I copy the text into my AI tool of choice (currently, I’m using Google Gemini). I use a prompt like, “Rewrite the following content as a blog post.” The AI then generates a new draft. Depending on the wording, flow, and overall feel, I either use the AI-generated text directly or make some minor tweaks to refine it.

    The Benefits of AI Assistance

    Using AI helps me create more fluid, structured, and polished blog posts. While the ideas and core content are entirely my own, the AI helps me present them in a more compelling way. I want my content to be well-written and engaging, because that’s what keeps readers coming back for more.

    Transparency Time!

    The text you’re reading right now is my AI edited final draft. Below, you’ll find the AI-assisted version. I’ll let you be the judge: Is my original content better, or is the AI-enhanced version more polished and easier to read?

  • Choosing a Laptop with Vision Loss: A Personal Journey

    Selecting a laptop when you experience vision loss involves careful consideration of several factors. This post shares my personal laptop selection process, explaining my choices and their impact. Remember, this is my experience, and your needs may differ.

    Size Matters

    Laptop size is a common consideration for everyone, regardless of vision. Many factors influence this decision. My own preferences have evolved over time. During my school years, a 15-inch laptop with a number pad was essential. After graduating, I transitioned to a smaller 13 or 14-inch model as the number pad became less important.

    Mac, Windows, or Chromebook?

    My operating system preferences have also changed. In school, I favored a MacBook due to its excellent built-in screen reader software (VoiceOver) and seamless iPhone integration. I briefly used a Windows laptop during that time and found it less suitable for my needs. Currently, I primarily use a Chromebook for about 90% of my daily computing tasks. In fact, this entire blog post, along with website modifications, was created on a Chromebook.

    Screen Reader Compatibility

    Screen reader compatibility is crucial for visually impaired users. My laptop choices have always been influenced by this. While using Apple products, VoiceOver was my go-to screen reader. When I switched to Windows, I initially used JAWS, but later discovered and preferred NVDA, an open-source, lightweight, and flexible screen reader. NVDA’s lower resource requirements made choosing a Windows laptop easier and more affordable. My Chromebook uses ChromeVox, a lightweight, functional, and accessible built-in screen reader.

    RAM Considerations

    RAM requirements differ depending on the operating system and screen reader. With macOS and VoiceOver, the base RAM configuration was sufficient for my needs (excluding intensive video or photo editing). For Windows, at least 12GB of RAM was recommended when using JAWS due to its resource-intensive nature. With NVDA, 8GB of RAM was generally adequate, though more is always preferable on Windows. For Chrome OS and ChromeVox, 4GB of RAM is usually sufficient; while I’ve used 8GB, I haven’t noticed a significant performance difference.

    Brand Recommendations

    Over the years, I’ve developed preferences for certain brands. I consistently recommend Lenovo, Samsung, and Asus. Within Lenovo, the ThinkPad line stands out. I’ve also been impressed with Samsung’s slim, lightweight, and powerful Windows laptops. Asus offers excellent gaming PCs, and my recent experience with their Chromebooks has been positive.

    Final Thoughts

    I’ve used a wide variety of laptops and have learned from each experience. Every laptop I’ve owned served its purpose at the time. As my needs evolve, so will my choice of computer.