Hi Andrew:
A major problem I have with developers of adaptive technology is the
uncommon assumption that blind folks are incapable of doing things for
themselves! I once had a cell phone that used NiCad MetaHydride batteries,
I replaced these batteries myself all the time and I had no problems doing
it. Admittedly, some blind folks may have dexterity issues to deal with; in
that wise, I can see why they will need assistance when it comes to
replacing batteries. However, why live with the assumptions that all blind
folks need constant hand holding?
Does Humanware every think about blind folks in countries where EASY ACCESS
to a Humanware product service center is both unavailable or unheard of? A
blind individual living in, say, Latvia using the BrailleNote needs to have
the batteries replaced; such a one has to SHIP his equipment either to
London or California, or may be even to New Zealand just to have batteries
replaced! Wow, does Humanware every think about the COST ASSOCIATED with
shipping for this blind individual? The same issues hold true for a blind
individual in Swaziland or Eritrea; I suppose these could be left out of the
loop because their buying power is so insignificant? But isn't the actual
buying power of blind folks worldwide similarly limited?
I just recently changed the battery in talking watch; I did it myself
without having to ship the watch to, may be China or Japan to have it done.
Is it really that hard for Humanware to keep things simple? I still have
the Braille Lite 40 hanging around here; I use it as a backup for the time
this classic goes to the clinic for chemotherapy ... I change the batteries
in the Braille Lite 40 with no hassles! I think it is more of a control
issue, a way to keep blind customers essentiall locked into a tight bind!
I am all for newer and better concepts with respect to the battery thingy.
I think that Humanware can and ought to do better in this respect. It is my
hope that the newer generation of their notetakers will accede to the level
where the users will be able to change their own batteries!
Sincerely,
Olusegun
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