Maestro 2.1 now available

Blind people can now surf the Web from the palm of their hand!

Longueuil, February 5, 2008 -- HumanWare is proud to announce the release of the new version of Maestro, expanding the capabilities of the first off-the-shelf accessible PDA.  Visually impaired can now surf the Web from the palm of their hands and in a 100% accessible environment.

Maestro consists of a standard PDA (handheld computer) with a tactile overlay allowing people to use commands and enter data intuitively by touch. The information is sent to the user in audio form using integrated voice synthesis. Maestro users can therefore organize their appointments and address books, consult and edit text documents, record voice notes, read books, organize e-mail, listen to music and even get GPS guidance with the Trekker option... all in the palm of their hand.

As with other Maestro applications, the Web browser offers a set of features maximized for an efficient navigation experience while on the go. Through a robust engine, our clients can quickly navigate links, headings, frames, and fill out forms on web pages.  They can enjoy using familiar screen reader commands and read pages as if they were on a desktop computer. The Maestro built-in Wi-Fi with simple wizard makes it easier to find and connect to preferred networks.

"As we promised over the last year, we now bring the extra functionalities of Maestro to our existing and future loyal users," said Lucia Gomez, Product Manager for Maestro and Trekker.  "With this new version, Maestro offers the applications currently available in a Notetaker, at a fraction of the price and size."

Maestro can be complemented with Trekker, the most popular GPS orientation tool for visually impaired and blind people. With Trekker, users can pinpoint exactly where they are, learn about area attractions, and find out how to reach specific destinations. As both applications are compatible with each other, Trekker users can install Maestro on their system, and Maestro users can install Trekker.

Maestro 2.1 is now available for free upgrade on our Web site. A detailed list of the new features is also available at the following address:
www.humanware.ca/web/en/maestro-trekker-upgrade.html

For more information on Maestro please visit:
www.humanware.ca/web/en/maestro.html

For more information on Trekker please visit:
www.humanware.ca/web/en/trekker.html

About HumanWare

HumanWare (http://www.humanware.com/) is the global leader in assistive technologies for the print disabled. HumanWare provides products to people who are blind and have low vision and students with learning disabilities. HumanWare offers a collection of innovative products include BrailleNote, the leading productivity device for the blind in education, business and for personal use; the Victor Reader product line, the world's leading digital audiobook players, and SmartView Xtend, the first fully modular and upgradeable CCTV-based video magnifier.

 

For more information:

HumanWare Canada
Nicolas Lagace
Tel.: (450) 463-1717
E-mail: nicolas.lagace@humanware.com