Assistive Chat App

Description and Purpose of Device: 

The Assistive Chat is an app that enables an iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad to operate as an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) device for people that are challenged with communicating or who cannot speak as well as individuals with cognitive issues, learning or speech disabilities.  This app functions as a voice output communicator and word prediction program that allows the user to communicate faster with others by reducing the amount of keystrokes necessary to create sentences with natural sounding voice.  It also is adaptable over time to the users communication needs and accuracy of word prediction improves as well.

Device Usage and Features:

To use the app, the user purchases the app from the iTunes App Store for their iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch and installs the app according to their device of use.  The user can then type in words or sentences they want to communicate, then the user touches the speaker button, and the program will speak the words out loud via the devices speakers. The app allows words and sentences to be added to a favorites list for future usage.  Other features of the app include adjustable volume and speed for voices, three voices for user to choose, large font and buttons for easy access, common sentences used favorites list, landscape and portrait mode, and adaptive learning of new vocabulary and next word prediction for future use.  It is only available for Apple products mentioned and systems running iOS 3.1 or later.

Manufacturer and Cost Information:

The Assistive Chat app can be purchased at iTunes in the App Store for $24.99 and can be located online at Assistive Apps.  Their goal is to create simple and functional apps for all which includes the disabled and elderly.  They make every effort to take advantage of the user-friendly devices such as the iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch to augment the user’s capabilities of performing tasks such as communication.  Assistive Apps is located at 211 Holland Avenue, #04-03, 268967, Singapore and can be contacted at +65-6469-8224 or visit the web: http://www.assistiveapps.com.