Those who have impaired speech might be able to use consistent vocalizations rather than actual words. The ability to try the systems for 15 days and still receive a full refund offers an advantage for those who are not sure it is feasible.

Since it runs on Pocket PC systems, the Smartphone Advanced Voice Control Calling and Voice Control Digital Media Player Package allows users to access music and movies using only voice commands. So, it essentially has all the cool features of the iPhone with the accessibility of complete voice recognition. A demonstration of the system, which is not supposed to require training for voice recognition, can be seen on Gimpgear's site. These systems rival or exceed the iPhone in price, ranging from $249 to $649, depending upon whether they have basic or advanced functions.

Firefly
For many people with intellectual and significant learning disabilities, souped-up cells are just too complex to be useful, especially when they need to reach assistance quickly in emergency situations. A simplified phone targeted for children and older people such as the Firefly features a simplified interface with just five buttons. Two frequently used numbers and 911 have dedicated keys and the phonebook can store 20 additional numbers.

Ablelink
Still, many adults with intellectual disabilities do not want to be stigmatized by using devices designated for kids. That was one motivation for Dan Davies of Ablelink Technologies to develop the Pocket Ace. The Pocket Ace is a simplified cell phone application that features pictures of people a person might want to call. Touching the person's photo dials his or her number. The phone was intentionally designed for Pocket PCs. Since so many people use them, a person using the Pocket Ace need not feel different from others.

If you are going to spend big money on a cell phone, it is seems more important to choose one that meets your needs, rather than the one with the latest bells and whistles or cool factor. However, it would be great if cell phone designers could combine accessibility into a hip device.

Product availability and resources Learn about iPhone accessibility. Learn about Code Factory's cell phone applications for those with low vision or blindness. Visit Gimpgear. View a demonstration of Gimpgear's Smartphone Advanced Voice Control Calling and Voice Control Digital Media Player Package. Learn about Firefly. Learn about Pocket Ace.

Dennis Crane is CRM Department Manager at UTrackSys.com, LLC at http://www.utracksys.com.