Speech Generating and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Devices
These accessories allow individuals with speech, physical or cognitive impairments to use alternative forms of communication to make a call, send a message or use social media. Some devices have mobile capabilities while others can connect to your mobile via Bluetooth, allowing you to use AAC to send text messages or speech synthesised voice over a phone call. Each accessory offers different variations in how the speech is generated, ranging from visual inputs to eye gaze control, with some allowing you to receive the audio of the call through the speakers on the communication board.
Each accessory has different features that will suit various needs; please consult your health care professional and the accessory provider for further information on which type is most suitable for your requirements. Additionally, while there are many versions of these accessories available on the market, we have only included a few versions which are recognised as being used for mobile communication purposes.
Type of accessory: Communication Boards
How do you use these accessories?
Each accessory allows for different forms of communication, speech generation, and typing. They will connect to the Wi-Fi, mobile network or your mobile device via Bluetooth and allow you to make a call using a synthesised voice or send a text that is translated from an alternative form of communication, such as visual inputs.
These accessories connect to phones via:
Audio Jack: NoBluetooth: YesWi-Fi: NoMicro USB: NoOther: NoIs there any other piece of equipment required for this accessory to work properly with a phone?
No, most accessories will work directly with a compatible mobile device. However additional equipment can be acquired to improve the features and usability of some accessories.
Compatibility:
Each communication board is compatible with different mobile devices and operating systems. Contact the accessory provider to check which features will work with your device and whether you will be able to make calls.
AAC Devices with Cellular Capability:
1. Jabbla Allora 3
The Allora 3 is a keyboard text to speech communication device designed to meet the needs of people that are literate who have reduced or little ability to speak.
The Allora 3 has a large and clear screen with touch access at the front with enough space to display large letters. The rear of the device is equipped with a high-contrast partner display. This is a handy screen for the communicating partner. This clear partner display is useful in noisy environments or where you still want to be able to communicate. This second screen is also very useful for a quiet private conversation or if you just want to communicate with several people at once.
You can connect the Allora 3 to your Smartphone via Bluetooth to make and receive calls and to send and receive text messages.
More information at:
Jabbla Allora 3Jabbla Allora 3 Help FilesYou can buy this accessory from Zyteq.
2. Liberator Rugged Devices
Designed for individuals who will primarily be using symbols for communication, the Liberator Rugged 8 and 10 have keyboard pages for spelling, and are "open" systems, meaning you can also run other Android applications on these devices. For individuals with existing or emerging literacy skills this model comes with 10,000, 30,000 and 60,000 word dictionaries. It uses LAMP - Words for Life™ or Chat (including WordPower) vocabularies.
It comes with a carry case and Wi-Fi capabilities. Additionally, a SIM can be purchased so the device can act as a mobile communication device without having to connect to your mobile. You can also use any Android application required, allowing you to access additional social media and communication platforms to send and receive e-mails or online chat.
More information at:
Liberator Rugged Web PageLiberator Device Trials Web PageLiberator Rugged Quick Reference Guide (PDF Download)You can buy the Rugged online from Liberator.
AAC Devices without Cellular Capability:
1. Abilia Lightwriter SL50
The Lightwriter SL50 is a text-to-speech device for literate users who are unable to communicate effectively through speech. Its key features include:
- Dual screens to allow both parties to see what you want to say
- Loud clear speech
- Simple menu with reduced distracting apps or loading times
- Small, portable and lightweight for on-the-go use
- Adjustable keyguards
- Two switches and keys that light up so that words can be typed and speech generated with limited mobility
This accessory also allows you to connect to your mobile device via Bluetooth to make and receive phone calls on Bluetooth-enabled devices. The Lightwriter SL50 has a built-in microphone, so you can talk and make sounds during the call or use the text and talk functions. The generated speech is received by the caller through the phone and their response is heard through the Lightwriter speakers.
Additionally, for compatible Android mobile phones, you can make and receive text messages through the Lightwriter so you do not need to swap between devices.
For more information:
Abilia Lightwriter SL50 Web PageAbilia Lightwriter SL50 Video (YouTube)Lightwriter SL50 Quick Guide (PDF Download)Lightwriter SL50 User Manual (PDF Download), see pages 23-27 for instructions on making and receiving calls and texts.You can buy this accessory online from Zyteq.
2. Jabbla Mobi 3 (Legacy Product)
The Mobi 3 is a communication device and accessible tablet that is powered Mind Express 4 and Windows 10 and allows users to communicate via text or symbols. Communication can be made directly from person to person, via the internet or by phone through Bluetooth connection.
It features dual switches and two USB outlets, allowing for multiple methods of access including the touch screen, keyguards, and switch access via USB or Bluetooth switches. Additionally, the device can be purchased with the Alea IntelliGaze eye gaze accessory to allow the device to be controlled using eye movements alone.
It is available with a capacitive or resistive touch screen to suit your needs, and a rear and front camera. The Mobi 3 is also compatible with the Grid 3 software at an additional cost.
More information at:
Mobi 3 User Manual (PDF Download)You can buy the Mobi 3 online from Zyteq and the Mobi 3 with IntelliGaze from Zyteq.
3. Jabbla Tellus i6
The Tellus i6 is a tablet-like device that has an integrated Tobii EYE IS5 eye tracker, allowing individuals with physical impairments to control the device, environment and communicate using only their eyes.
It includes Intel Core i5-8265U processor and Windows 10 Pro operating system to allow you to use a variety of communication and social media applications. It is designed for multiple methods of access, so the device can be controlled using the touch screen, keyguards, switch access via USB or Bluetooth switches, as well as eye gaze accessories.
Additionally the device can send and receive text messages when connected to a smart phone via Bluetooth.
More information at:
Tellus i6 User Manual (PDF Download)You can but the Tellus i6 online from Zyteq.
4. Liberator Accent Series
The Accent AAC tablet comes in three models: the Accent 800, Accent 1000, and Accent 1400 varying only in screen size and weight. They come pre-loaded with the NuVoice communication software which offers Unity and LAMP Words for Life page sets, with Essence, EasyChat, WordPower and Grid 3 being optional.
They feature built-in speakers for extra volume, cameras on the front and back, and a carry handle. They are also compatible with alternative access methods such as switching, joystick or mouse options, and NuPoint HeadPointing, with Eye Gaze enabled for the Accent 1000 and Accent 1400.
The Accent devices allow individuals with cognitive, physical, and speech impairments to easily engage in daily communication through generated speech. You can also use any Windows 10 application required, allowing you to access additional social media and communication platforms to send and receive e-mails, online chat or Skype.
More information at:
Liberator Accent Web PageLiberator Device Trials Web PageLiberator Device Manuals Web PageYou can buy the Liberator Accent products online from Liberator.
5. Liberator NOVA Chat Series
The NOVA Chat Series includes four models that vary with screen size and portability. In order of size, these are the Chat 8, Chat 10, and Chat 12. They use the NOVA chat software allowing for alphabet/text, symbol, and visual scene based inputs, and include the Ivona and Acapella voice outputs.
Each model allows for switch scanning access options, with the NOVA chat 8, 10, and 12 also compatible with Keyguards. Additionally, they all have multiple position capabilities and Social Chat options.
These devices allows individuals with cognitive, physical, and speech impairments to easily engage in daily communication through generated speech, as well as effortlessly connect with others via e-mail, text messaging, chat, Skype or through phone calls using Bluetooth technology.
More information at:
Liberator NOVA Chat Web PageLiberator Device Trials Web PageLiberator NOVA Chat User Guide (PDF Download)You can buy the NOVA Chat 8 online from Liberator.
You can buy the NOVA Chat 10 online from Liberator.
You can buy the NOVA Chat 12 online from Liberator.
6. Tobii Dynavox TD I-110
The Tobii DynavoxTD I-110 is a speech generating devices for Augmentative and Alternative Communication needs. It features a purpose-built, ultra-rugged design, Gorilla Glass, naturally intuitive user interface, and an IP54 classification.
It allows individuals with cognitive, physical, and speech impairments to easily engage in daily communication through generated speech, as well as effortlessly connect with others via e-mail, text messaging, chat, Skype or through phone calls using Bluetooth technology.
The I-110 comes with a full range of communication software solutions pre-installed, including Snap™ + Core, so that different levels of communication needs can be met. In particular, emergent communicators will use Snap Scene before moving into symbol-based communication on Snap + Core First to improve speed. Additionally, a literate, independent individual can use the Communicator 5 which provides advanced user functionality
This device can be connected via Bluetooth to your mobile device, allowing you to send or receive calls or texts using synthetic or natural speech. You can also use any Windows 10 application required, allowing you to access additional social media and communication platforms.
More information at:
Tobii Dynavox TD I-110 Web PageTobii Dynavox TD I-110 Brochure (PDF Download)You can buy this accessory online from Link Assistive.
7. Tobii Dynavox I-Series
I-Series is the lightest, fastest and most durable speech generating device that is purpose-built for augmentative and alternative communication. It can be controlled via eye tracking in all kinds of lighting conditions, even outdoors. I-Series comes pre-loaded with AAC software to meet a range of communication needs, and projects your voice loud and clear thanks to powerful speakers. The device also offers a rear-facing Partner Window™ for more natural face-to-face conversations.
More information at:
Tobii Dynavox I-Series Web PageTobii Dynavox I-Series+ Product SupportYou can buy this accessory online from Link Assistive.
8. Smartbox Grid Pad 12
The Grid Pad 12 is a Windows 10 tablet operating with Grid 3 software, allowing for AAC communication. The Grid Pad 12 is compatible with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and features built-in radio, infrared Environment Control, and mountable options.
It is designed for multiple methods of access, so the device can be controlled using the touch screen, keyguards, switch access via USB or Bluetooth switches, as well as eye gaze accessories such as the EyeTech TM5 and Irisbond Duo camera. It includes two built-in ports for switches and a headphone jack.
The Grid Pad 12 operate on Windows 10, allowing Windows 10 applications to be downloaded and used, giving access to communication and social media apps.
The Grid 3 software allows users to communicate using given or customised grid sets, and generate messages using symbols, core words or text-to-speech, as well as connect with a mobile phone.
More information at:
Grid Pad 12 Think Smart Box Web PageYou can buy the Grid Pad 12 online from Zyteq.
Is there any training available for these accessories?
- Training and demonstrations might be available directly from retailers.
ACC546 Speech Generating and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Devices