In episode 299 of iCantCU, I explain why the Rokid Style smart glasses are getting one more chance. After several disappointing attempts to use them in real-world situations, including failures with voice commands and recording video, I was ready to put them aside. Then I started wondering whether some strange issues with my iPhone might be part of the problem. Before heading to Austin for the National Federation of the Blind National Convention, I’m hoping a visit to the Genius Bar will help me figure out whether the phone is the issue or whether the Rokid Styles simply are not reliable enough for me.
Blind is Blind
This episode also includes a direct conversation about language and blindness. After a recent onboarding call with a new virtual assistant, I noticed how carefully people will avoid saying the word “blind.” They will use every phrase imaginable except the one that actually fits. Blind is not an offensive word. It is a description. Blindness covers a wide range, from legally blind to totally blind, and there is no reason to dance around it. If someone uses a long white cane, the word you are looking for is probably blind.
Braille is Essential
I also talk about why braille is still essential. Audio is incredibly useful, but it does not replace literacy. Listening to a word does not tell a blind child how it is spelled, how punctuation works, or whether someone means Lyft, the rideshare company, or lift, as in an elevator. Braille remains the way blind students learn spelling, grammar, and the mechanics of written language.
Trip to Austin
The episode also looks ahead to the NFB National Convention in Austin, where I will be attending general sessions, participating in a communications committee panel, attending the web coordinators meeting, and helping at the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania exhibit table. The PA affiliate will be selling chocolate-covered pretzels and peanut brittle from Groff’s Candy, and I am hoping to get some answers about the website issues that have created warning messages on our state convention registration, exhibitor, and sponsorship forms.
Ziggy at Cira Green
Back home, the Keystone Chapter is getting ready for the Coast to Coast Movement Challenge. On August 8, we plan to walk from the Penn Museum to Cira Green, a rooftop park near 30th Street Station. The route is about a mile once we include the walk, the climb up to the park, and a lap around the rooftop space. I also share an update on Ziggy, who is still going through lymphoma treatment but remains very interested in Dairy Queen, pup cups, croissants, and being a golden menace whenever possible. He was very good while at Cira Green, though!
Support the Keystone Chapter
Here is the link to make a donation on behalf of the Keystone Chapter in the Coast-to-Coast Movement Challenge: https://www.nfb.org/contribute/c2c. In the notes section at the bottom of the form, enter “NFB of PA Keystone Chapter”.
Top Takeaways
Rokid Style Gets One More Chance
After several frustrating failures, I am not quite ready to give up on the Rokid Style smart glasses. Since my iPhone has also been acting strangely, I want to rule out phone problems before making a final judgment. The next test will help determine whether the glasses can actually be useful when I travel.
Blind Is Not a Bad Word
People often try so hard not to offend that they avoid the clearest and most accurate word. Blind is not an insult. It is a description, and using it respectfully is far better than stumbling through awkward alternatives.
Braille Still Matters
Audio is helpful, but it does not teach spelling, punctuation, or grammar. Blind students need braille to build true literacy. Technology can support learning, but it should not replace the written word.
Convention Season Is Here
The NFB National Convention in Austin is a major event, and there is a lot happening for the Pennsylvania affiliate. From communications work and website concerns to fundraising, sponsorships, and exhibit hall sales, this trip is about much more than just attending sessions.
Ziggy Is Still Ziggy
Ziggy continues lymphoma treatment and has had difficult stretches, but he is still showing his personality. Whether he is enjoying ice cream, riding in the car, or exploring Cira Green, the golden menace is still very much present.