InsideOne’s Revolutionary Tactile Braille Tablet

In a world that’s constantly evolving with technology, it’s crucial that advancements are accessible to everyone, including the visually impaired community. Inside One’s latest innovation, a tactile braille tablet, is a game-changer in this regard. We had the opportunity to dive into the details of this groundbreaking device with Eric Roche from Inside One during an enlightening interview on Double Tap with hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece.

As Eric Roche explains, the traditional mechanical braille keyboard has been replaced with a touch-sensitive interface, similar to the smartphones we use every day. This shift towards a more intuitive user experience is a significant step forward in making technology more inclusive.

One of the most striking aspects of the Inside One tablet is its design. The device is roughly the size of an A4 sheet of paper and boasts a 32-cell braille display made from CNC aluminum, ensuring durability. With a 10-inch screen, the tablet incorporates a Perkins-style keyboard that is indented into the glass, allowing users to feel where to place their fingers for typing.

The tablet is also equipped with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a range of gestures that go beyond the screen, demonstrating Inside One’s dedication to creating a user-friendly environment that caters specifically to the blind community.

Eric Roche and his team initially considered Android but ultimately chose Windows for its ubiquity in education, home, and work environments. This decision underscores the tablet’s focus on inclusion, allowing users to easily integrate the device into their existing tech ecosystems.

The Inside One tablet is not just about accessibility; it’s also a powerhouse. With an i7 processor, 16GB of RAM, and options for a 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB NVMe SSD hard disk, the device can handle a wide range of tasks. Users can connect it to other PCs, turning it into a braille display, and can also connect peripherals like Bluetooth or wired keyboards.

While the price may vary depending on the country and available funding, the tablet is positioned as a premium product. In France, it may cost around 7,000 euros for the end user after VAT and funding considerations. In the U.S., the price is expected to be around $5,900. Canadian pricing is still under discussion, but Inside One is actively working with distributors to make the tablet as accessible as possible.