AMANDA HYNAN FINAL THESIS PDF

cursor that reacted to movement. Two of the most important advances at this time
were the ability to interface with a computer which allowed the use of email and word
processing via pictorial language systems and the options to interface via USB ports
and wireless technology (initially radio and infrared technology, subsequently
Bluetooth technology and more recently 3G mobile phone technology dongles or
wireless connection through WiFi).
In 2000, a device appeared which Chapple (2011) says was truly revolutionary.
Firstly, it combined static overlays with dynamic touch screen displays which
increased speed dramatically, secondly it ran on a Windows CE format which opened
up the use of address books, calendars and some computer games, and thirdly it
allowed mobile phone calls to be made and received though the device via an Air card
and SIM card and paved the way for current devices on the market today to receive
text messages. By 2007, totally integrated communication aids were available from
many manufacturers meaning single machines could operate as a communication
device and a personal computer or continue to interface with an external computer.
DeRuyter et al. (2007) summarised how AAC technology had integrated mainstream
technology through three primary approaches:
“(a) “dedicated” AAC systems housed in specially designed hardware, (b)
proprietary AAC software functions on a mainstream operating system and
housed in specially designed hardware, and (c) proprietary AAC software
functioning on a mainstream operating system and housed in a mainstream
device” (p. 262).
They concluded (in 2007) that many features important to those who use AAC could
cross into larger markets (e.g. older adults) and the AAC industry must make
mainstream manufacturers aware of this and also ensure access to email, mobile
phones and all the services provided by the internet are available within
communication devices.
2.3.3. Development of voice output Apps on mainstream devices
Within the last few years the mainstream mobile technology industry has indeed
‘woken up’ to AAC. Voice output Apps have been developed which can be used on
Apple and Android based devices and people who use AAC now have the possibility
32