RNZFB and HumanWare to Take Up Internet Distribution of Talking Book Players

HumanWare is set to design and develop the prototype Internet-capable digital talking book (DTB) players and assist the RNZFB in carrying out trials of the technology among its existing talking book clientele.

RNZFB’s objective behind the trial is to find out whether a DTB player and service solution can be designed to replace the postal system with Internet delivery of books and magazines for users of its library who are not computer literate. The RNZFB is dedicated to develop a DTB system that delivers high-quality service to its dispersed customer base utilizing the latest technology.

RNZFB expects to complete the multimillion-dollar project of developing its talking books library from audiotape to digital media by 2008.

“Clearly, the Internet is the future and it will be the most economical distribution method of delivering books and magazines to print-disabled people. Obviously we have to consider costs, but we also have to be mindful that the vast majority of our members are over 65, and half are over 80. The hardware or digital download box - that’s in our blind, deaf-blind and vision-impaired members’ houses has to be simple and easy to use, as close to fool-proof as possible.” said Mary Schnackenberg, Divisional Manager of RNZFB’s Adaptive Support Division.

Since 1999, HumanWare has designed and commercialized digital talking book players under the Victor Reader product line.

Source: Daisy.org