Preview Mode Links will not work in preview mode

Accessibility Minute - Assistive Technology Tips and Tricks for Everyone


Jul 31, 2017

Hey there! Welcome to Accessibility Minute, your weekly look at Assistive Technology, those clever tools and devices designed to help people who have difficulties with vision, mobility, hearing or other special needs!
 
I recently received an Amazon Echo Dot as a gift.  And let me tell you: it is a game changer!  Whenever I get really anxious, all I have to do is say, "Alexa, help me relax."  Then the device will play a soothing, ambient noise.  I love that the device offers so many skills and is always getting smarter! 
 
One of its newest built-in skills is Alexa voice calling.  Once it's enabled, Echo users are able to make calls to other Echo users via an Echo device or the Amazon Alexa app.  This built-in skill is available to Alexa customers within the United States.  
 
All you need to sign up is an Amazon account, the Alexa app, and a cellphone number.  After you verify your number through SMS, and have other contacts confirmed, you'll be able to make calls over your Echo speaker!  Simply say, "Alexa, call Jane Doe," and it'll connect you to the desired contact.
 
Visit Amazon.com to learn more.
 
For more information, to read our blog, or to drop us a line, visit EasterSealsTech.com.  That was your Accessibility Minute for this week! I¹m Laura Medcalf with the INDATA Project at Easterseals Crossroads, in Indiana.