Double Tap

Google Assistant is shutting down on 4 September 2026, replaced by the AI-powered Google Gemini, while Apple’s Siri AI upgrade is rolling out with strict hardware requirements. This episode explores what the shift means for users, device compatibility, and why you should never put your phone in the fridge.

Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dissect the upcoming transition from Google Assistant to Google Gemini, explaining its advantages in natural language processing and the risks for users with older devices. They discuss how Gemini differs from command-based assistants, the implications for accessibility, and the tension between cloud-based and on-device AI.

The conversation shifts to Apple’s Siri AI, detailing which iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches will support the new features, and the even stricter requirements for expressive voice customisation. Pricing and availability concerns for new hardware, rising demand for refurbished devices, and the looming impact of AI’s energy and economic demands are also explored.

To close, the hosts warn against a viral TikTok trend encouraging users to cool overheated phones in the fridge, explaining why condensation and thermal shock can destroy your device.

Share your stories at feedback@doubletaponair.com or WhatsApp +1 613‑481‑0144.

Relevant Links

Apple iOS 27 Beta Info: https://www.apple.com/ios

Google Gemini Overview: https://blog.google/products/gemini

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About Double Tap
Hosted by the insightful duo, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, Double Tap is a treasure trove of information for anyone who's blind or partially sighted and has a passion for tech. Steven and Shaun not only demystify tech, but they also regularly feature interviews and welcome guests from the community, fostering an interactive and engaging environment. Tune in every day of the week, and you'll discover how technology can seamlessly integrate into your life, enhancing daily tasks and experiences, even if your sight is limited.
"Double Tap" is a registered trademark of Double Tap Productions Inc.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Discover how the FeelSpace Navibelt is transforming navigation for blind and partially sighted people through innovative haptic feedback technology. Learn how this discreet vibrating belt enhances independence, boosts confidence, and changes lives.

[Sponsor]

This episode is supported by Pneuma Solutions. Creators of accessible tools like Remote Incident Manager and Scribe. Find out more at https://pneumasolutions.com

In this episode of Double Tap Weekend, Steven Scott speaks with Susan Wache, co-founder of FeelSpace, the company behind the Navibelt. This wearable navigation belt uses gentle, continuous vibrations to guide users in real time, whether pointing north, ensuring straight-line walking, or connecting with the FeelSpace app for directional routing.

Susan shares the inspiring journey from cognitive science research to a product that empowers blind users, helping them cross streets, navigate parks, and even explore new cities with confidence. We explore the belt’s core functions, accessibility benefits, and unique features like Beeline mode for navigating towards personal favourites, as well as the real-life emotional impact of users gaining freedom and independence.

Relevant Links

Pneuma Solutions: https://pneumasolutions.com

FeelSpace Navibelt: https://www.feelspace.de

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About Double Tap
Hosted by the insightful duo, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, Double Tap is a treasure trove of information for anyone who's blind or partially sighted and has a passion for tech. Steven and Shaun not only demystify tech, but they also regularly feature interviews and welcome guests from the community, fostering an interactive and engaging environment. Tune in every day of the week, and you'll discover how technology can seamlessly integrate into your life, enhancing daily tasks and experiences, even if your sight is limited.
"Double Tap" is a registered trademark of Double Tap Productions Inc.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Guide dog journeys, hospital mishaps, and tech talk collide in this engaging Double Tap episode with Steven Scott and Shaun Preece. Discover real-world stories of guide dog navigation, service animal refusals, and the latest assistive tech updates for blind users.

Steven Scott recounts an unforgettable week of firsts with his guide dog, Koko—from a taxi refusal to an extraordinary hospital experience where his guide dog seemingly navigated an unfamiliar building flawlessly. The conversation explores unexpected challenges with public perceptions, a nurse refusing treatment due to fear of dogs, and reflections on professionalism in public spaces.

Shaun and Steven then dive into accessibility technology, including the new HumanWare BrailleNote Evolve, NVDA and JAWS learning resources, and the importance of unified portals for accessible books. They also touch on blind pride, community perspectives, and the quirks of living with a guide dog in everyday environments, blending humour, insight, and practical advice.

Relevant Links

NV Access: https://www.nvaccess.org

Vispero JAWS Training: https://www.freedomscientific.com/training

HumanWare BrailleNote Evolve: https://www.humanware.com/en-usa/braillenote-evolve-qwerty-waiting-list/

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Subscribe to the Podcast:
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About Double Tap
Hosted by the insightful duo, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, Double Tap is a treasure trove of information for anyone who's blind or partially sighted and has a passion for tech. Steven and Shaun not only demystify tech, but they also regularly feature interviews and welcome guests from the community, fostering an interactive and engaging environment. Tune in every day of the week, and you'll discover how technology can seamlessly integrate into your life, enhancing daily tasks and experiences, even if your sight is limited.
"Double Tap" is a registered trademark of Double Tap Productions Inc.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Discover the legacy of Rui Fontes, the creator of beloved screen reader voices, and hear how Adi Kushnir and Access Mind are keeping his work alive with new, high-quality voices for iPhone and beyond.

Steven Scott and Shaun Preece reflect on the remarkable impact of Rui Fontes, whose work on Vocalizer voices and Tiflotecnia quietly shaped the daily lives of blind and visually impaired tech users. They discuss the often-overlooked individuals behind assistive technology and how Rui’s contributions continue to resonate through the community.

Adi Kushner from Access Mind joins to explain how his team is honouring Rui’s legacy while introducing innovative new voices for iOS and other platforms. The hosts also dive into listener emails, covering topics like accessing hymn lyrics in Braille, using AI tools effectively, and the challenges of obtaining an accessible passport.

Plus, your emails lead to a candid conversation around blind subculture, community experiences, and the ongoing social issues like guide dog refusals.

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Subscribe to the Podcast:
Apple: https://www.doubletaponair.com/apple
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RSS: https://www.doubletaponair.com/podcast
iHeadRadio: https://www.doubletaponair.com/iheart
About Double Tap
Hosted by the insightful duo, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, Double Tap is a treasure trove of information for anyone who's blind or partially sighted and has a passion for tech. Steven and Shaun not only demystify tech, but they also regularly feature interviews and welcome guests from the community, fostering an interactive and engaging environment. Tune in every day of the week, and you'll discover how technology can seamlessly integrate into your life, enhancing daily tasks and experiences, even if your sight is limited.
"Double Tap" is a registered trademark of Double Tap Productions Inc.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive into smart glasses, Apple Watch woes, and the realities of audio description for blind users. From tech frustrations to social perceptions, this episode of Double Tap is both funny and insightful for anyone interested in accessible tech.

In this lively discussion, Steven and Shaun explore the quirks and frustrations of living with modern assistive tech. Steven shares the tale of bricking his Synapptic smartwatch and the trouble with downgrading an Apple Watch Ultra 3 from watchOS 27 beta. They discuss the rise of AI assistants, privacy trade-offs, and whether smartwatches genuinely add value for blind users.

The conversation shifts to the social aspects of blindness and technology—like fears of wearing smart glasses in public, misconceptions from sighted people, and the bubble of online discourse. Later, they touch on the art of audio description and how personal preferences can make or break the experience of watching films and TV. Listeners also chime in with thoughts about Orion, Meta smart glasses, and accessibility in daily life.

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Subscribe to the Podcast:
Apple: https://www.doubletaponair.com/apple
Spotify: https://www.doubletaponair.com/spotify
RSS: https://www.doubletaponair.com/podcast
iHeadRadio: https://www.doubletaponair.com/iheart
About Double Tap
Hosted by the insightful duo, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, Double Tap is a treasure trove of information for anyone who's blind or partially sighted and has a passion for tech. Steven and Shaun not only demystify tech, but they also regularly feature interviews and welcome guests from the community, fostering an interactive and engaging environment. Tune in every day of the week, and you'll discover how technology can seamlessly integrate into your life, enhancing daily tasks and experiences, even if your sight is limited.
"Double Tap" is a registered trademark of Double Tap Productions Inc.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.