these accessible apps are great for students, for the workplace and for getting things done.
DropBox
Sharing files from your computer, phone and with others is a breeze with DropBox. It is a cloud based platform that allows you access to your files anywhere. The app also allows you to share files with classmates and create comments. A really good app to stay organized.
KNFB Reader
What does that handout say? What is on the menu? With KNFB Reader on your phone those answers will be answered quickly. Just simply take a photo of the document in question and have KNFB Reader read it to you within seconds. A must have!
Pocket
Scrolling the web and finding articles you want to read but do not have time right now. Save them to pocket and read them when you have a chance. It also works with apps like Voice Dream Reader so you can have the voice of your choice read them to you.
ReadToGo by bookshare
Out of wifi range? Want to read your textbooks by page or section? This app allows you to download books so you can enjoy them whenever you want. It also is good for reading textbooks as it allows you to go to a specific page, chapter or section. Note: to scroll by single lines turn off Read to Go audio.
Learning Ally
This app allows you to play your Learning Ally books whenever you need them.
Kindle
This app allows you to purchase books and play them right on your phone.
Voice Dream Reader
Busy doing laundry and want to listen to articles or books? This app is perfect for that. It will read you books or articles in the voice you choose. There are so many functions built-in to this app to create the best reading experience.
BARD Mobile
Want to read your NLS books without dragging around your NLS player? BARD mobile app allows you to play your favorite books and magazines whenever you want them.
iBlink Radio
Looking for all the latest podcasts from a blindness perspective? The iBlink Radio has a wide array of podcasts and radio stations to entertain you.
Apps for Students
APPs
Power Thesaurus
Have you ever struggled with finding a similar word while writing? This app quickly provides you with so many options. The results are displayed in a table format so, turning your rotor to the row option works well. Then you can quickly one finger swipe down the long list of words until you get to the perfect one.
Writing Aid — Dictionary, Synonyms and Meanings
Writer’s block is a phenomenon that affects everyone. Know what you want to say but forgotten how to express it? Just can’t remember what this word means?
Writing Aid can relieve this frustration. Instantly search for definitions and synonyms just like a standard dictionary..
Lists for Writers – ideas for creative writing
Do you struggle with finding the perfect name or description for your characters? This app provides you with names, descriptions and plot ideas for your creative writing project.
AccessNote by American Foundation
This is a note-taking app created by the American Foundation for the Blind. It allows you to quickly create and edit notes. It also has keyboard commands built-in (look in the user manual for more details). It also allows you to link your notes to DropBox.
Blackboard Mobile Learn™
This app is the mobile version of Blackboard. It allows you to check announcements, grades and discussions. You are also able to log-in to your online classes through the collaborate app. This app will send push notifications when announcements, grades or content is posted in your classroom. You can also e-mail from the app. Note: this app does not allow you to open documents posted in course materials or assignments.
Blackboard Collaborate™ Mobile
This app works in tandem with the Blackboard app. You just simply find your class session in the Blackboard app and click join room. The Collaborate app will launch automatically and put you in your session. The interface is very accessible. Note: You must change your settings to allow your microphone to work. You also are not allowed to go into breakout sessions from the app at this time. However, your professor can move you into those sessions from their end. Lastly, if you are using a Bluetooth keyboard for chat, it periodically pushes you out and you must turn off your keyboard and back on to resume.
CloudConvert
Have you ever had a locked PDF that will not read? This app allows you to change the format of documents. This app allows you to upload it from the cloud and change it to another format. You are allowed to convert up to 10 files a day under the free version.
EleMints: Periodic Table
This is a fully accessible periodic table. If you turn your rotor to vertical navigation it works best. It will allow you to swipe left or right and up and down through the table. You can also single tap on the element for additional information. Note: The table is displayed in landscape mode. The top is next to your headphone jack (on an iPhone 6).
Medical Terminology and Abbreviations
Are you taking a science class and you wanted to know what word roots mean? This app is perfect. The words are displayed in an alphabetical format. If you turn your rotor to headings you can quickly scroll to the letter you need. Once you find the word you want click on it with a single finger, double tap. A dialog box will appear with eh definition and then you just simply close it to keep finding other words.
Capti Narrator
This app is similar to Voice Dream Reader. However, it is free but, does not include all the options. You are able to purchase voices as an in-app purchase. Simply select the article or book you want to read and hit the play button.
Scholly: Scholarship Search
This is an app that provides you with a list of all the scholarships available. You are able to search for scholarships that are specific to your major or background.
Web Sites
Writing
Transition Words
University of Wisconsin, Madison has constructed a wonderful list of transition words. Transition words and phrases are essential for creating good flow throughout your paper. Furthermore, they help you link thoughts and sentences together to enhance clarity.