16 March 2005
A new technological development in talking books is demonstrating how technology can benefit those with visual impairment.
The new technology from BT creates talking books, magazines and newspapers by automating the process of turning words into audio files.
The prototype synthetic voice application promises to speed up the production of electronic accessible books enjoyed by thousands of people in the UK with a visual impairment.
Automation of the process involving two applications - EasePublisher and Laureate - means that many more kinds of publications can be converted than ever before, including periodicals and magazines.
BT has been working closely with the National Library for the Blind (NLB) and the Royal National Institute for the Blind (RNIB).
Mike Carr, director, research and venturing, BT said: "BT is committed to creating accessible products and services that provide the means to deliver information to all, whoever and wherever they may be - by broadband or over the mobile network. This demonstrates how good technology, plus a strong working partnership, has the potential to deliver a vastly increased library to literally anyone."© DeHavilland Information Services plc
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