TORONTO – Rogers Wireless on Tuesday launched the Nokia 6682RVI, a cellphone that converts displayed text on the handset into speech so it can be used by people with a visual impairment.
Nuance TALKS(TM) software from Nuance Communications converts the phone’s menus, instructions and content displayed on the screen into audio output through its internal speaker, or an optional wired or Bluetooth headset.
The phone application, available in English and French, allows users to send and receive emails and text messages with audio feedback, to customize phone settings and profiles, to manage call logs and personal phone directory, to monitor battery strength, to use calendars and to increase or decrease the phone’s speaking rate.
The Nokia 6682RVI, only available on rogers.com/visuallyimpaired, costs $199 with a three-year term.
There are more than 600,000 Canadians living with significant visual impairment, according to Statistics Canada, and the number is expected to grow as the population ages.
“As Canada’s largest wireless carrier, Rogers Wireless continues to offer the latest innovations in mobile communications. The 6682RVI levels the mobile playing field by giving our customers with vision loss the ability to independently access and interact with some of the most advanced wireless features and services available today,” said Rogers Wireless SVP and Chief Marketing Officer John Boynton.
“We are pleased to be working with Rogers Wireless and the CNIB on such an important initiative,” said Nokia Canada General Manager Paul Chapple. “As a mobile phone manufacturer, we are committed to always keeping our customers connected, be it with friends, family or loved ones. A mobile phone that is accessible to consumers with vision loss is an important part of this commitment.”
