Episodes

  • Exploring Accessibility Features in Windows: The Ease of Access Center
    Aug 29 2024

    In this episode, Shaun Preece discusses the importance of accessibility features in Windows and demonstrates how to access and use the Ease of Access Center.

    In this episode, Shaun Preece discusses the importance of accessibility features in Windows and demonstrates how to access and use the Ease of Access Center.

    He explores various options under the Vision, Hearing, and Interaction categories, such as text size, visual effects, mouse pointer customization, magnifier, color filters, contrast themes, narrator, captions, speech recognition, keyboard shortcuts, mouse keys, and eye tracking.

    This is the final episode of Shaun of the Shed, but fret not as Shaun previews the upcoming season of Double Tap on YouTube.

    Highlights:

    • Introduction and Purpose of the Episode (00:00)
    • Exploring the Ease of Access Center in Windows (02:39)
    • Customizing Vision Options (06:32)
    • Enhancing Accessibility for Hearing Impaired (11:16)
    • Enabling Interaction for Individuals with Physical Disabilities (14:05)
    • Importance of Exploring and Trying Out Accessibility Options (15:31)
    • Double Tap Preview : New Season of Popular Tech Show on YouTube (16:30)

    Double Tap Canada - AMI+, YouTube

    More on Windows Ease of Access Center

    About Shaun of the Shed

    Shaun of the Shed gives those new to the world of technology a helping hand with everything from using a screen reader or smart speakers to unboxing and starting up a new computer.

    Host Shaun Preece is an audio producer from Manchester who has a real passion for technology. Despite being born with a visual impairment, Shaun's sight has worsened over the years and as such he has depended more on assistive technology.

    You can also hear Shaun on AMI's Double Tap podcast, airing weekly at noon Eastern on AMI-audio or download it from your favourite podcast platform.

    About AMI

    AMI is a not-for-profit media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. Operating three broadcast services, AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French, AMI’s vision is to establish and support a voice for Canadians with disabilities, representing their interests, concerns and values through inclusion, representation, accessible media, reflection, representation and portrayal.

    Learn more at AMI.ca

    Connect on Twitter @AccessibleMedia

    On Instagram @accessiblemediainc

    On Facebook at @AccessibleMediaInc

    Email feedback@ami.ca

    Show more Show less
    18 mins
  • Enhancing iPhone Accessibility and Efficiency with Apple Shortcuts
    Jul 25 2024

    In this episode, Shaun Preece discusses how to supercharge apps on an iPhone using Apple Shortcuts. He explains that apps are what enable blind individuals to do various tasks on their smartphones, and Apple Shortcuts allows users to create scripts to automate app functions. Shaun walks through the step-by-step process of setting up shortcuts and assigning gestures to activate them. He demonstrates how to create a shortcut for the Be My Eyes app and assign a two-finger swipe to activate it. Shaun emphasizes the convenience and power of using shortcuts to make apps more accessible and efficient.

    Highlights

    • Supercharge Your iPhone Apps with Apple Shortcuts - Intro (00:00)
    • All About Apple Shortcuts (02:27)
    • Navigating Apple Shortcuts via Screen Reader (03:59)
    • Creating Shortcut to Describe Images with Be My Eyes App (07:13)
    • Assigning Quick Gestures to Apple Shortcuts (08:50)
    • Shortcuts Summary (14:42)

    About Shaun of the Shed

    Shaun of the Shed gives those new to the world of technology a helping hand with everything from using a screen reader or smart speakers to unboxing and starting up a new computer.

    Host Shaun Preece is an audio producer from Manchester who has a real passion for technology. Despite being born with a visual impairment, Shaun's sight has worsened over the years and as such he has depended more on assistive technology.

    You can also hear Shaun on AMI's Double Tap podcast, airing weekly at noon Eastern on AMI-audio or download it from your favourite podcast platform.

    About AMI

    AMI is a not-for-profit media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. Operating three broadcast services, AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French, AMI’s vision is to establish and support a voice for Canadians with disabilities, representing their interests, concerns and values through inclusion, representation, accessible media, reflection, representation and portrayal.

    Learn more at AMI.ca

    Connect on Twitter @AccessibleMedia

    On Instagram @accessiblemediainc

    On Facebook at @AccessibleMediaInc

    Email feedback@ami.ca

    Show more Show less
    16 mins
  • Be My Eyes for Windows
    Jun 27 2024

    The Be My Eyes app is now available for Windows, specifically for the AI feature.

    Be My Eyes is an app that allows users to create a video call with a sighted volunteer for assistance. It has evolved to include artificial intelligence (AI) functionality called Be My AI, which can provide descriptions of images.

    The Windows app offers four main options: describe the screen, describe a picture taken using the built-in camera, describe a picture from file explorer, and describe the clipboard. The AI provides detailed descriptions and can answer follow-up questions. The app is simple to use and can be beneficial for blind or partially-sighted individuals.

    Chapters

    • Introduction (00:00)
    • Be My AI: AI-Powered Image Descriptions (01:24)
    • Describe My Screen (06:59)
    • Take Picture Using Built-in Camera (13:47)
    • Describe Picture from File Explorer (17:31)
    • Final Thoughts on Benefits of Be My Eyes for Windows (20:03)

    Be My Eyes Download Links

    About Shaun of the Shed

    Shaun of the Shed gives those new to the world of technology a helping hand with everything from using a screen reader or smart speakers to unboxing and starting up a new computer.

    Host Shaun Preece is an audio producer from Manchester who has a real passion for technology. Despite being born with a visual impairment, Shaun's sight has worsened over the years and as such he has depended more on assistive technology.

    You can also hear Shaun on AMI's Double Tap podcast, airing weekly at noon Eastern on AMI-audio or download it from your favourite podcast platform.

    About AMI

    AMI is a not-for-profit media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. Operating three broadcast services, AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French, AMI’s vision is to establish and support a voice for Canadians with disabilities, representing their interests, concerns and values through inclusion, representation, accessible media, reflection, representation and portrayal.

    Learn more at AMI.ca

    Connect on Twitter @AccessibleMedia

    On Instagram @accessiblemediainc

    On Facebook at @AccessibleMediaInc

    Email feedback@ami.ca

    Show more Show less
    21 mins
  • Navigating Windows with Ease: Tips for the Visually Impaired
    May 30 2024

    In this episode, Shaun Preece discusses the process of finding files, folders, and websites on a Windows computer using a screen reader, as well as navigating File Explorer and creating shortcuts.

    He provides tips and demonstrations on using the Start menu, File Explorer, and keyboard shortcuts to efficiently locate and access files and folders. Additionally, he demonstrates the creation of desktop shortcuts for files, folders, and websites, along with assigning keyboard shortcuts to these shortcuts.

    Highlights

    • Introduction (00:00)
    • Finding Files & Folders (01:39)
    • Using File Explorer (03:04)
    • Tree View & Navigation Pane (06:32)
    • Item View List (09:17)
    • Pro-Tip: Change View from Grid to List (10:27)
    • Creating Shortcuts (11:55)
    • Shortcut Super-Tips (17:34)
    • Keyboard Shortcuts for Shortcuts (19:15)
    • Other Effective Uses for Shortcuts (20:08)
    • Show Close (21:49)

    About Shaun of the Shed

    Shaun of the Shed gives those new to the world of technology a helping hand with everything from using a screen reader or smart speakers to unboxing and starting up a new computer.

    Host Shaun Preece is an audio producer from Manchester who has a real passion for technology. Despite being born with a visual impairment, Shaun's sight has worsened over the years and as such he has depended more on assistive technology.

    You can also hear Shaun on AMI's Double Tap podcast, airing weekly at noon Eastern on AMI-audio or download it from your favourite podcast platform.

    About AMI

    AMI is a not-for-profit media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. Operating three broadcast services, AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French, AMI’s vision is to establish and support a voice for Canadians with disabilities, representing their interests, concerns and values through inclusion, representation, accessible media, reflection, representation and portrayal.

    Learn more at AMI.ca

    Connect on Twitter @AccessibleMedia

    On Instagram @accessiblemediainc

    On Facebook at @AccessibleMediaInc

    Email feedback@ami.ca

    Show more Show less
    23 mins
  • The Advantages of AI as a Voice Assistant
    Apr 25 2024

    In this episode, Shaun discusses artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential benefits for blind or visually impaired individuals. Showcasing the “Pi” AI service as a voice assistant that can answer questions, create emails, offer recommendations and much more.

    • Highlights
      Show Open (00:00)
    • Artificial Intelligence for the Blind & Partially Sighted (00:20)
    • Using “Pi” as AI Voice Assistant (02:16)
    • 2 Ways to Use Pi (03:50)
    • Using “Talk with Pi” (04:25)
    • Pi Helps Draft a Letter (6:10)
    • Pi Gives Keyboard Recommendations (07:30)
    • Using Pi to Inquire About Screen Reader Updates & Features (08:25)
    • Summary & Caveats (10:29)

    Website: http://www.Pi.AI

    About Shaun of the Shed

    Shaun of the Shed gives those new to the world of technology a helping hand with everything from using a screen reader or smart speakers to unboxing and starting up a new computer.

    Host Shaun Preece is an audio producer from Manchester who has a real passion for technology. Despite being born with a visual impairment, Shaun's sight has worsened over the years and as such he has depended more on assistive technology.

    You can also hear Shaun on AMI's Double Tap podcast, airing weekly at noon Eastern on AMI-audio or download it from your favourite podcast platform.

    About AMI

    AMI is a not-for-profit media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. Operating three broadcast services, AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French, AMI’s vision is to establish and support a voice for Canadians with disabilities, representing their interests, concerns and values through inclusion, representation, accessible media, reflection, representation and portrayal.

    Learn more at AMI.ca

    Connect on Twitter @AccessibleMedia

    On Instagram @accessiblemediainc

    On Facebook at @AccessibleMediaInc

    Email feedback@ami.ca

    Show more Show less
    13 mins
  • Putting Internet Speeds to the Test
    Mar 28 2024

    Takeaways

    • It is important to test your internet speed to ensure you are getting what you are paying for.
    • WiFi routers play a crucial role in delivering internet speed throughout your home.
    • Mesh networks can provide better WiFi coverage and eliminate dead spots.
    • When choosing a router, consider factors such as speed, coverage, and performance.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Setting the Context

    01:28 Importance of Internet Speed

    03:22 Comparison of Google Nest and Netgear Orbi

    05:20 Explanation of Mesh Networks

    06:19 Conducting an Internet Speed Test

    08:45 Testing the Netgear Orbi

    10:36 Considerations for Choosing a Router

    11:32 Conclusion and Call to Action

    About Shaun of the Shed

    Shaun of the Shed gives those new to the world of technology a helping hand with everything from using a screen reader or smart speakers to unboxing and starting up a new computer.

    Host Shaun Preece is an audio producer from Manchester who has a real passion for technology. Despite being born with a visual impairment, Shaun's sight has worsened over the years and as such he has depended more on assistive technology.

    You can also hear Shaun on AMI's Double Tap podcast, airing weekly at noon Eastern on AMI-audio or download it from your favourite podcast platform.

    About AMI

    AMI is a not-for-profit media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. Operating three broadcast services, AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French, AMI’s vision is to establish and support a voice for Canadians with disabilities, representing their interests, concerns and values through inclusion, representation, accessible media, reflection, representation and portrayal.

    Learn more at AMI.ca

    Connect on Twitter @AccessibleMedia

    On Instagram @accessiblemediainc

    On Facebook at @AccessibleMediaInc

    Email feedback@ami.ca

    Show more Show less
    13 mins
  • Adding Fingerprint Scanning to your Windows Computer
    Feb 29 2024

    In this episode of Shaun of the Shed, Shaun Preece discusses the benefits of using biometric security, specifically fingerprint recognition, on Windows computers; discovering that biometric security is more effective than using passwords or PIN codes and more convenient.

    Shaun demonstrates how to add a USB fingerprint reader to a computer and set up fingerprint recognition in Windows settings, emphasizing the affordability and ease of use of the Arcanite fingerprint reader. Shaun also mentions the increasing popularity of biometric security for logging into websites and services.

    Highlights:

    • Show Open (00:00)
    • Windows Hello (00:14)
    • Why Use Biometric Security? (00:49)
    • Adding a Fingerprint Scanner to your Computer (01:53)
    • Setting Up Arcanite USB Fingerprint Reader via Screen Reader (02:42)
    • Windows Hello Set-Up Instructions for Fingerprint Recognition (04:47)
    • Signing in with Fingerprint Reader (09:53)
    • Future of Biometric Security (11:43)
    • Show Close (12:16)

    About Shaun of the Shed

    Shaun of the Shed gives those new to the world of technology a helping hand with everything from using a screen reader or smart speakers to unboxing and starting up a new computer.

    Host Shaun Preece is an audio producer from Manchester who has a real passion for technology. Despite being born with a visual impairment, Shaun's sight has worsened over the years and as such he has depended more on assistive technology.

    You can also hear Shaun on AMI's Double Tap podcast, airing weekly at noon Eastern on AMI-audio or download it from your favourite podcast platform.

    About AMI

    AMI is a not-for-profit media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. Operating three broadcast services, AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French, AMI’s vision is to establish and support a voice for Canadians with disabilities, representing their interests, concerns and values through inclusion, representation, accessible media, reflection, representation and portrayal.

    Learn more at AMI.ca

    Connect on Twitter @AccessibleMedia

    On Instagram @accessiblemediainc

    On Facebook at @AccessibleMediaInc

    Email feedback@ami.ca

    Show more Show less
    13 mins
  • The Power of Braille: A Journey of Learning and Discovery
    Jan 25 2024

    Join Shaun Preece as he explores the importance of learning Braille for blind or visually impaired individuals. Despite the advancements in technology, Shaun highlights the benefits of being able to read and write in Braille.

    He shares his personal journey and regrets for not learning Braille earlier, and discusses its potential uses in education and employment.

    Shaun also reviews four Braille learning apps: Braille Academy, Braille Decoded, Pocket Braille, and Bump Bump Braille Learn, providing valuable feedback on their accessibility and usability. Tune in to discover the power of Braille and learn about resources available from local sight loss organizations.

    Highlights:

    • Show Open (00:00)
    • National Braille Literacy Month & World Braille Day (00:24)
    • Do I Really Need to Learn Braille? (01:23)
    • Top Apps for Teaching Braille (03:29)
    • Braille Academy (04:25)
    • Braille Decoded (11:23)
    • Pocket Braille (14:44)
    • Bump Bump Braille Learn (18:05)
    • Basic Braille Alphabet Quiz (23:34)
    • Braille Apps Summary (25:02)
    • Best Ways to Learn Braille (26:45)
    • Show Close (28:38)

    Links:

    • Braille Academy
    • Braille Decoded
    • Pocket Braille
    • Bump Bump Braille Learn

    About Shaun of the Shed

    Shaun of the Shed gives those new to the world of technology a helping hand with everything from using a screen reader or smart speakers to unboxing and starting up a new computer.

    Host Shaun Preece is an audio producer from Manchester who has a real passion for technology. Despite being born with a visual impairment, Shaun's sight has worsened over the years and as such he has depended more on assistive technology.

    You can also hear Shaun on AMI's Double Tap podcast, airing weekly at noon Eastern on AMI-audio or download it from your favourite podcast platform.

    About AMI

    AMI is a not-for-profit media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. Operating three broadcast services, AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French, AMI’s vision is to establish and support a voice for Canadians with disabilities, representing their interests, concerns and values through inclusion, representation, accessible media, reflection, representation and portrayal.

    Learn more at AMI.ca

    Connect on Twitter @AccessibleMedia

    On Instagram @accessiblemediainc

    On Facebook at @AccessibleMediaInc

    Email feedback@ami.ca

    About Shaun of the Shed

    Shaun of the Shed gives those new to the world of technology a helping hand with everything from using a screen reader or smart speakers to unboxing and starting up a new computer.

    Host Shaun Preece is an audio producer from Manchester who has a real passion for technology. Despite being born with a visual impairment, Shaun's sight has worsened over the years and as such he has depended more on assistive technology.

    You can also hear Shaun on AMI's Double Tap podcast, airing weekly at noon Eastern on AMI-audio or download it from your favourite podcast platform.

    About AMI

    AMI is a not-for-profit media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. Operating three broadcast services, AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French, AMI’s vision is to establish and support a voice for Canadians with disabilities, representing their interests, concerns and values through inclusion, representation, accessible media, reflection, representation and portrayal.

    Learn more at AMI.ca

    Connect on Twitter @AccessibleMedia

    On Instagram @accessiblemediainc

    On Facebook at @AccessibleMediaInc

    Email feedback@ami.ca

    Show more Show less
    30 mins