Canada's Rogers Wireless has announced the launch of a specially modified Nokia handset which is aimed at customers with vision loss. The Nokia 6682RVI, equipped with Nuance TALKS software from Nuance Communications essentially turns the Nokia 6682RVI handset into a "talking phone" by converting menus, instructions and content displayed on the screen into audio output through its internal speaker, or an optional wired or Bluetooth headset.
According to Statistics Canada, there are more than 600,000 Canadians living with significant vision loss. Current projections indicate that with our aging population, this number will increase dramatically over the next ten years. Nuance TALKS allows these customers to be more wirelessly connected since audible cues provide access to the services available on the phone.
"CNIB applauds Rogers for its leadership in creating an accessible cell phone," commented Jim Sanders, CNIB President & CEO. "Technology holds great potential in increasing independence for people with vision loss; however this potential is only realized if a product is accessible.
Devices like this are invaluable for anyone, particularly seniors, who experience difficulty reading small print."
"We are pleased to be working with Rogers Wireless and the CNIB on such an important initiative," said Paul Chapple, General Manager, Nokia Canada. "As a mobile phone manufacturer, we are committed to always keeping our customers connected, be it with friends, family or loved ones. A mobile phone that is accessible to consumers with vision loss is an important part of this commitment."
Posted to the site on 8th May 2007
Posted to: www.cellular-news.com/story/23625.php