Apple VoiceOver Turns 20 + Google Nest Accessibility Disaster

Today on Double Tap, Steven Scott and Sean Preece react to Google’s announcement that it will discontinue cloud support for the first- and second-generation Nest thermostats — a major accessibility blow for blind users. They discuss the implications for smart home reliability and urge companies to prioritize accessibility from the start.We also celebrate the 20th anniversary of Apple’s VoiceOver, sharing personal reflections and hearing from Mike Shebanek, who helped bring built-in accessibility to Apple products.Finally, Aaron Linson joins Steven to give an in-depth user review of the Stellar Trek from Humanware. Learn how this standalone navigation device compares to smartphones, how it handles GPS directions, traffic signals, and even reads short texts and doors with its AI features. If you’ve ever wondered whether dedicated tech still has a place alongside smartphones, this conversation is for you.[Chapters]0:00 – Intro: Nest Thermostat Accessibility Outrage2:15 – How Smart Home Devices Risk Becoming Inaccessible5:40 – Why Accessible Design Must Be Baked In7:08 – Apple’s VoiceOver Turns 209:23 – Mike Shebanek on VoiceOver’s Origin at Apple14:06 – How the iPhone Changed Accessibility Forever18:32 – Accessibility Features in Early iPhones20:44 – Introducing the Stellar Trek22:45 – Why Apps Alone Aren’t Enough for Navigation25:13 – How the Stellar Trek Works for Blind Travelers29:56 – Real World Navigation with Stellar Trek32:19 – How Stellar Trek Provides Richer Location Info36:58 – New AI Traffic Light and Bus Stop Detection39:21 – Should You Still Buy a Pro iPhone for LIDAR?44:05 – Affordability, Technology Reliance, and Spread the Load47:40 – Book Reader and Short Text Features on Stellar Trek50:01 – Why Dedicated Devices Still Matter54:33 – The Value of Environmental Awareness When Traveling56:58 – Wrapping Up: More Stellar Trek User Q&A to Come[Key Quotes]“Accessibility has to be in everybody’s mind at all times.” — Steven Scott“If one update breaks accessibility, that’s it — you’re stuck.” — Aaron Linson“VoiceOver being built in changed everything — no extra cost, no extra software.” — Kelly MacDonald“The Stellar Trek lets me explore what’s around me, not just navigate point-to-point.” — Aaron Linson[Relevant Links]Humanware Stellar Trek: https://www.humanware.com/en-usa/homeLearn more about Apple VoiceOver: https://www.apple.com/accessibility/vision/#DoubleTap #AccessibilityTech #BlindTechnology ----Follow on:YouTube: https://www.doubletaponair.com/youtubeX (formerly Twitter): https://www.doubletaponair.com/xInstagram: https://www.doubletaponair.com/instagramTikTok: https://www.doubletaponair.com/tiktokThreads: https://www.doubletaponair.com/threadsFacebook: https://www.doubletaponair.com/facebookLinkedIn: https://www.doubletaponair.com/linkedinSubscribe to the Podcast:Apple: https://www.doubletaponair.com/appleSpotify: https://www.doubletaponair.com/spotifyRSS: https://www.doubletaponair.com/podcastiHeadRadio: https://www.doubletaponair.com/iheartAbout Double TapHosted by the insightful duo, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, Double Tap is a treasure trove of information for anyone who's blind or partially sighted and has a passion for tech. Steven and Shaun not only demystify tech, but they also regularly feature interviews and welcome guests from the community, fostering an interactive and engaging environment. Tune in every day of the week, and you'll discover how technology can seamlessly integrate into your life, enhancing daily tasks and experiences, even if your sight is limited."Double Tap" is a registered trademark of Double Tap Productions Inc. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.