Smartbox Assistive Technology TTS - Short Review

Smartbox Assistive Technology: Text-to-Speech Solutions

Smartbox Assistive Technology is designed to empower individuals with disabilities to communicate more effectively and live more independently. Here’s an overview of their key products and features:

Purpose and Mission

Smartbox Assistive Technology is dedicated to providing innovative solutions for people with complex communication and access needs. Their mission is to give individuals a voice and independence, enabling them to build meaningful connections and achieve their ambitions.

Key Products

Grid

Grid is Smartbox’s flagship AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) software. It is a versatile platform used by over 50,000 people worldwide, allowing users to communicate, control their environment, and access their computer. Grid includes a wide range of resources tailored for people of all ages and literacy levels, from interactive learning tools to efficient text and symbol-based communication.

Text Talker

Text Talker is a specialized Grid set designed for literate AAC users. It is more than just a text-to-speech keyboard, incorporating several innovative features to make communication intuitive and efficient.

Key Features and Functionality

SwiftKey Prediction

Text Talker utilizes SwiftKey prediction tools, which suggest word completions and predict the next word as you type, increasing the speed of communication. These predictions become more accurate over time based on the user’s typing habits.

Chat History

The chat history feature remembers everything the user says, allowing them to quickly recall and reuse entire phrases. By typing a keyword, users can access related messages from their chat history, making communication faster and more convenient.

Message Banking

Users can capture and store phrases in their own voice using the message banking feature. These recorded phrases can be arranged by category and played back instead of using synthesized speech, adding a personal touch to communication.

Temporary Message Storage

Text Talker allows users to temporarily store and retrieve messages, which is useful for dealing with interruptions or preparing for conversations in advance. This feature ensures that users do not lose their work and can easily pick up where they left off.

Private Mode

For privacy, Text Talker includes a private mode that prevents messages from being remembered in the chat history. Users can also remove phrases directly from the chat history for added control over their data.

Accessibility and Compatibility

Text Talker is optimized for iPad users and is available in over 40 languages. It can be tried for free with a 30-day trial for Grid for iPad or a 60-day free trial for Grid 3 on Windows.

Hardware and Devices

Smartbox’s solutions are supported by a range of specialist hardware, including the Grid Pad, which is known for its all-day battery life, rugged design, and multiple access options. This ensures that users always have access to their communication tools.

User-Centric Design

Smartbox’s products are developed through a user-led design process, focusing on quality, reliability, and simplicity. The company works closely with AAC users to innovate and meet their unique needs, reflecting the individualism and diverse requirements of each user.

Conclusion

In summary, Smartbox Assistive Technology’s TTS solutions, particularly Text Talker and the Grid software, offer powerful, intuitive, and customizable tools for individuals with complex communication needs, enhancing their ability to communicate effectively and live independently.