Weekend: The Blind Persons’ Guide to Smart Speakers

Discover how smart speakers like Amazon Echo and Google Nest can transform daily life for blind and visually impaired users. Learn to access entertainment, manage information, and control a smart home using only your voice.

Shaun Preece takes a back-to-basics look at smart speakers, demonstrating why they are such powerful tools for accessibility. Drawing on real-life experiences, he explains the core concept of what “smart” means, how voice control creates instant usability for blind and visually impaired users, and why smart speakers are a must-have gadget.

From playing music, podcasts, and radio to answering questions and managing schedules, Shaun showcases the versatility of devices like Amazon Echo and Google Nest. He also explores their role in the smart home—controlling lights, thermostats, vacuums, and even video doorbells—making everyday life more convenient and independent.

Listeners will also learn about key differences between Amazon, Google, and Apple smart speakers, how to set them up independently with accessible apps, and why voice-first interactions make them invaluable for anyone losing or living without sight.