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Spring 2026 Edition.
A service of the Technology User Group at the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled. Feel free to share this newsletter.
If you want to stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving world of accessibility, the Double Tap podcast is one of the smartest and most entertaining ways to do so. This daily show covers everything from screen readers and smart speakers to kitchen gadgets and cutting-edge tech that makes life easier for everyone.You can listen using any podcast app or simply ask your favorite voice assistant to play the latest episode. Curious about past discussions or want to connect with a lively, around-the-clock community? Visit www.doubletaponair.com to explore archives and join the conversation.And here’s the real treat: Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, the dynamic duo behind Double Tap, will be joining the Technology User Group (TUG) on April 11th. Their blend of insight, humor, and real-world experience makes accessibility not just understandable but genuinely fun. See the Events section of this newsletter for joining details.
Ninite.com is a website that allows users to immediately download the latest versions of media players, web browsers, conferencing apps and more. Simply check the boxes of the programs you would like to install on your computer and go. On this site, you do not have to worry about tracking cookies, hidden ads or malicious bots. It’s safe, easy, and even accessible!
If you are the owner of a Humanware Victor Reader Stream 3 (third generation), you know it includes advanced features, such as playing EPUB material (electronic publication), Audible books, connecting to TuneIn, and many other special skills. On May 9th, the Technology User Group (TUG) will look at how to use these tools, making the purchase of your machine much more enjoyable. Joining information can be found in the Events section of this newsletter.
Among the many gestures that make Apple’s VoiceOver such an effective tool, the two-finger double tap stands out as one of the most versatile. Often called the “magic tap,” this simple gesture performs different actions depending on what app you are accessing, allowing users to control their device with speed and confidence. The main function of the two-finger double tap acts as a universal play/pause command. Whether you’re listening to music, streaming a podcast, or playing an audiobook, a quick tap with two fingers instantly starts or stops the audio. This eliminates the need to hunt for on-screen controls, allowing for smoother multitasking.
The two-finger double tap’s usefulness also extends beyond media. When receiving a phone call, a double tap with two fingers answers the call; performing this gesture again hangs up the conversation. In apps that support recording, such as Voice Memos or certain note taking tools, the two-finger double tap starts or stops a recording, offering an easy way to capture thoughts or audio on the go.
AppleVis.com is the place to go to learn about new, accessible apps for your iDevice. You can also check out a complete list of preferred apps to aid in everyday life. Need help getting started with your new Apple device? AppleVis can help with this as well. Just visit the website at AppleVis.com for resources providing answers to many of your questions. In addition, you can subscribe to the AppleVis podcast at AppleVis.com/podcasts, which provides updates on Apple’s services and offers practical advice on using the latest changes to the Apple operating system.
Some of the most commonly reviewed apps are those pertaining to games. We will look at these latest offerings on Saturday, June 10th, at the Technology User Group (TUG) meeting. For joining information, please see the Events section of this newsletter.
If you need accessibility assistance on a PC or smartphone, Marylanders Online may be able to help. The Tech Support Helpline is open to provide free tech support, digital resource navigation, and connection to local partner services.
Marylanders Online Tech Support Helpline may be contacted Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., by phone at 301-405-9810 (toll-free 1-866-206-8467) or by email at MarylandersOnline@umd.edu. You can also visit their website at https://marylandersonline.umd.edu.
March is National Reading Month, a perfect reminder of why stories, research, and lifelong learning matter so much. As patrons of the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled, we know the reality: only a fraction of published books ever make it into audio format. Sometimes the title we need for research isn’t recorded. Sometimes our favorite author has a book that is not available in audio. And sometimes we just want to explore genres that don’t always make the bestseller lists.
That’s where Kindle becomes a game changer.
The Kindle app offers a vast resource of books far beyond what’s available in audio alone, and it comes packed with accessibility features designed to make reading easier and more flexible. Even better, many Kindle titles can be read aloud using an Alexa device, turning your smart speaker into a personal reading companion.
This July, the Technology User Group (TUG) will take an in-depth look into both the Kindle app and the Alexa reading skill. Join us on Saturday, July 11th, for a hands-on look at how these tools can expand your reading world. You’ll find all the joining details in the Events section of this newsletter.
All Technology User Group (TUG) meetings can be joined via Zoom:
https://marylandlibraries.zoom.us/j/6562037293
Meeting ID: 656 203 7293
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Upcoming TUG Topics:
- April 11: Double Tap with Steven Scott
- May 9: Advanced Features of the Victor Reader Stream 3
- June 13: Latest iOS Games
- July 11: Kindle App and Skill
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