Getting Started

Welcome to ddt.one! If you're new to technology or just discovering my website, this is the place to get started with the basics of technology for the blind community.

I understand that technology can be a vast and complex world, especially for those just beginning to explore it. So take a moment to read through this section to grasp the essential information, helping you get familiar with and use assistive technology designed for blind individuals.

What is ddt.one?

ddt.one is a website founded by Đào Đức Trung, designed to provide valuable and entertaining content specifically for the blind community. With the goal of creating a safe, user-friendly, and accessible online space, ddt.one curates unique software, games, and resources tailored to the needs of blind individuals, sourced from trusted platforms.

Beyond sharing, ddt.one fosters a sense of community by allowing users to contribute their own content. You can submit articles, tips, or personal experiences to share and connect with others.

Through ddt.one, Trung aims to offer a diverse and meaningful environment where blind users can learn, enjoy, and exchange valuable insights within the realm of technology.

Overview of 3 Popular Operating Systems

Microsoft Windows

Windows is an operating system for personal computers, designed to help users perform various tasks like working, entertainment, and learning. With built-in accessibility tools like Narrator and third-party software like NVDA, you can easily navigate your computer using just the keyboard.

What is Microsoft Windows?

Microsoft Windows is a widely used operating system installed on many personal computers. It helps you perform tasks such as browsing the web, writing documents, listening to music, or running assistive software. Windows is popular for its user-friendly interface and compatibility with a wide range of devices.

What is a Screen Reader, and Why is it Important?

A screen reader is the most important tool for blind users of Windows. It reads aloud the content displayed on the screen and allows you to control the computer using the keyboard. Popular screen readers for Windows include:

  • NVDA: Free, powerful, and easy to use.
  • JAWS: Widely used but paid, with advanced features.

Getting Familiar with the Keyboard

Blind users often rely on the keyboard instead of the mouse to control the computer. Here are some basic keyboard shortcuts to help you navigate quickly:

  • Alt + Tab: Switch between open windows.
  • Windows + D: Go to the desktop.
  • Alt + F4: Close the current program.
  • Ctrl + S: Save a document.

Accessibility Features in Windows

Windows provides several built-in accessibility features, such as:

  1. Narrator: An integrated screen reader, useful for beginners.
  2. Magnifier: A tool to zoom in on the screen.
  3. High Contrast: Changes color schemes to improve visibility.

Google Android

Android is the operating system for smartphones and tablets. It supports the TalkBack application, enabling blind users to interact with their devices through touch gestures and voice commands. Android is available on a wide range of devices, from budget-friendly to premium.

What is Google Android?

Android is an operating system for smartphones and tablets, developed by Google. It is a popular platform used on devices from various manufacturers such as Samsung, Xiaomi, Oppo, and many others. Android is known for its flexibility and customization options, and it offers a wide range of applications that support blind users.

What is TalkBack?

TalkBack is the built-in screen reader on Android devices, designed to help blind users interact with their devices. It reads aloud information on the screen, such as app names, text, and notifications. You can control the device using touch gestures on the touchscreen.

How to Activate TalkBack:

  1. Press and hold both volume buttons simultaneously until you hear a prompt.
  2. Follow the instructions to enable TalkBack.

Getting Familiar with TalkBack Gestures

Here are some basic gestures to use with TalkBack:

  1. Swipe Right/Left: Move through items on the screen.
  2. Double Tap: Select the current item.
  3. Swipe Up/Down with Two Fingers: Scroll content (such as a webpage or list).

Other Accessibility Features on Android

  • Select to Speak: Reads content on the screen when you select a portion of text.
  • Magnification: Use two fingers to zoom in on the screen.
  • Navigation Gestures: Customize gestures to fit your personal needs.

Apple iOS

iOS is the operating system for Apple devices like iPhones and iPads. Its standout accessibility feature is VoiceOver, a robust screen reader combined with simple touch gestures, making it easy for users to control their devices.

What is Apple iOS?

iOS is the operating system developed by Apple, designed exclusively for devices like iPhones and iPads. Known for its user-friendly interface and high security, iOS integrates many powerful accessibility features for blind users.

What is VoiceOver?

VoiceOver is the built-in screen reader on iOS, enabling users to interact with their devices without needing to see the screen. It reads aloud the information displayed on the screen and helps you control the device using touch gestures.

How to Activate VoiceOver:

  1. Press the Home button or the Side button (on newer models) three times in quick succession.
  2. Go to Settings > Accessibility > VoiceOver to enable it.

Getting Familiar with VoiceOver Gestures

Here are some basic gestures for beginners:

  1. Swipe Right/Left with One Finger: Move between items.
  2. Double Tap with One Finger: Select the current item.
  3. Swipe Up/Down with One Finger: Change options or scroll through a list.
  4. Swipe Up/Down with Three Fingers: Scroll a page.

Other Accessibility Features on iOS

  • Zoom: Magnify the screen to view details more clearly.
  • Select to Speak: Read aloud the content you select on the screen.
  • Voice Control: Perform actions without touching the screen.
  • Customize Accessibility Shortcuts: Set up quick access features by triple-clicking the Home or Side button.

Basic Technology Terms

  1. Operating System (OS): Software that manages and runs devices like computers and smartphones, e.g., Windows, Android, iOS.
  2. Screen Reader: A program that reads aloud content displayed on the screen, enabling blind users to operate their devices.
  3. Gestures: Touch actions like swiping or tapping on a touchscreen to control a device.
  4. Keyboard Shortcut: Key combinations that perform actions quickly on a computer.
  5. App (Application): Software installed on phones or computers to perform specific tasks.
  6. Accessibility Features: Tools or settings designed to make devices easier to use for people with disabilities.

Congratulations on learning the basics!

Now, let’s dive into the world of technology with ddt.one and discover the amazing things awaiting you.

  1. Software - Explore curated collection of accessible software designed specifically for the blind: Explore Software
  2. Games - Discover an exciting collection of accessible games perfect for blind users: Explore Games
  3. Articles - Read articles written by amazing contributors from the ddt.one community: Explore Articles

Explore ddt.one your way and discover the wonderful things it has to offer!