HumanWare Launches Portable Notetaker for Blind Students

HumanWare has debuted a notetaker designed for students who are blind.

The new BrailleNote Apex is small, a thin (0.78"), and light (1.8 lbs.), making it easy to carry and use. It features a full-size Braille keyboard, 8 GB of internal memory, built-in WiFi, Ethernet, and Bluetooth. The BrailleNote Apex also supports high-capacity SDHC cards and has four high-speed USB 2.0 ports.

The notetaker runs on Windows CE 6.0 operating system with KeySoft productivity applications that feature 100 percent accessibility. The BrailleNote Apex also has thumb keys designed to make extensive reading easier.

Other features include:

  • Enhanced support for large documents and media files;
  • Plug and play visual display;
  • User-replaceable battery;
  • Integrated real-time clock that maintains time and date for 30 days without battery power;
  • Web access and file and e-mail retrieval from wireless or Ethernet network;
  • Synchronization with a PC to maintain an updated list of personal contacts and appointments ; and
  • Stereo sound.

BrailleNote Apex is available now. Further information can be found here.

About the Author

Denise Harrison is a freelance writer and editor specializing in technology, specifically in audiovisual and presentation. She also works as a consultant for Second Life projects and is involved with nonprofits and education within the 3D realm. She can be reached here.

Featured

  • white desk with an open digital tablet showing AI-related icons like gears and neural networks

    Elon University and AAC&U Release Student Guide to AI

    A new publication from Elon University 's Imagining the Digital Future Center and the American Association of Colleges and Universities offers students key principles for navigating college in the age of artificial intelligence.

  • Abstract geometric pattern with interconnected nodes and lines

    Microsoft 365 Copilot Gets Expanded AI Capabilities, Collaboration Tools

    Microsoft has announced the next updates to its Microsoft 365 Copilot AI assistant, including expanded AI capabilities in individual apps, the ability to create autonomous agents, and a new AI-powered collaboration workspace.

  • Digital Education Council survey data

    Survey: 86% of Students Already Use AI in Their Studies

    In a recent survey from the Digital Education Council, a global alliance of universities and industry representatives focused on education innovation, the majority of students (86%) said they use artificial intelligence in their studies.

  • Two autonomous AI figures performing tasks in a tech environment; one interacts with floating holographic screens, while the other manipulates digital components

    Agentic AI Named Top Tech Trend for 2025

    Agentic AI will be the top tech trend for 2025, according to research firm Gartner. The term describes autonomous machine "agents" that move beyond query-and-response generative chatbots to do enterprise-related tasks without human guidance.