Episode 9: What Magnification Apps Can Help Me Read Again?

Living with Vision Loss PodcastEpisode 9: What Magnification Apps Can Help Me Read Again? Host: Dawn Ciccarone, MS OTR/L, CLVTEpisode Type: Educational / App GuideEpisode SummaryDawn shares her three favorite magnification apps that help people with low vision read small print. She explains why these apps work best for spot reading tasks like medicine bottles, prices at the store, and restaurant menus. Dawn walks through how to use her favorite app, Visor, and shares practical tips for success including proper camera distance (about 4-6inches), using a reading stand, and the importance of practice.Dawn's Recommended Magnification AppsVisor (Dawn's Favorite) — Free on Android, ~$18 one-time fee on iPhoneHW Explorer — Free on Android and iPhoneSupervision Plus Magnifier — Free on Android and iPhoneWe Zoom Magnifier — Popular on Android phonesBest Uses for Magnification Apps (Spot Reading)Medicine bottlesPrices and labels at the storeRestaurant menus (especially in dark lighting)Labels and cansNote: These apps don't work great for reading books because the phone screens are a small field of view for extended reading tasks.Why Dawn Loves the Visor AppSimple, easy-to-use controlsPlus button (center) — Magnifies in 3 different sizesMode button (blue/black) — Changes contrast colorsSun button (red) — Turns on flashlightHow to Get StartedDownload the app — Google Play Store (Android) or App Store (iPhone)Play with the controls — Magnification, color/contrast, flashlightHold camera at correct distance — About 4-6 inches from the materialLine up camera with material — Practice aligning what you want to readPractice, practice, practice!Tips for SuccessUse a reading stand — Holds material so you're hands free to operate the appsStart with simple materials — Soup cans, envelopes, medicine bottlesAdd the app to your toolbar — Makes it easier to find on your home screenUse voice commands — "Hey Siri, open Visor" or "Hey Google, open Visor"Ask for help downloading — Family or friends can help with setupThings to ConsiderLearning takes time — like riding a bike, don't get frustratedCamera focuses at about 4-6 inches — print won't be clear at wrong distanceResearch shows apps help, but only when properly taught and practicedAlso great for anyone over 40 with presbyopia who forgets their reading glasses!Apps MentionedVisor (V-I-S-O-R)HW ExplorerSupervision Plus MagnifierWe Zoom Magnifier (Android)ResourcesYouTube — Search "Living with Vision Loss Dawn Ciccarone" to see app demonstrationsQuestions about apps or to share your favorite app, email [email protected] in the Next EpisodeDawn's favorite text-to-speech app: Seeing AIAbout Your HostDawn Ciccarone, MS, OTR/L, CLVT is a Certified Low Vision Therapist and Occupational Therapist with over 20 years of experience helping people with vision loss live independently.Connect & SubscribeSubscribe to the Living with Vision Loss Podcast. Contact Dawn on LinkedIn with questions or [email protected]: magnification apps, low vision apps, Visor app, HW Explorer, Supervision Plus, magnifier app iPhone, magnifier app Android, reading with low vision, spot reading, enlarge print app, low vision technology, presbyopia reading helpMedical DisclaimerThe information provided is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult your physician or low vision specialist before making treatment decisions.Living with Vision Loss Podcast © 2026 | Become More Independent in Your Everyday Life