More Details

Software
Requires iOS 8.0 or later. Compatible with iPad.
Requires Android 3.2 and up, compatible with some Android devices.

Speech Quality
* Five Australian synthesised voices available (3 female and 1 male and 2 child voices). May access more voices with subscription.

Access
* Direct selection

Vocabulary / Language
* Symbol based - uses SymbolStix
* 3 Vocabulary sets reflecting different language levels.
* Setting recommendations are provided for each vocabulary set.
* Includes a Core Vocabulary page
* Vocabulary is organised using semantic categories such as "places" and "food" and syntactic categories, such as "people", "actions", and "describe" (for adjectives). A colour coding system is used.
* Includes a folder for 'quick' phrases - pre-stored functional phrases
* Includes grammar support (e.g. verb conjugation, pronouns forms 'me, I, mine etc..).
* Includes on-screen keyboard with text and symbol prediction
* Includes spelling support
* Includes a search function to look up the location of words
* Backup and restore vocabulary using iTunes and Dropbox
Visual display - screen
* The dimension of the display may depend on size of the tablet being used.
* Uses dynamic display
* Runs in landscape mode only.
* May use high-contrast interface
* Ranges for 1 to 40 cells per page
* May modify caption size and position

Print Output
A hard copy may be created by printing out desired page.

Symbols / Pictures
* Uses SymbolStix (15,000+ symbols)
* User may add his/her own pictures

Batteries and Charging
Check in relation to the tablet or phone device you are using. Regular charging may be needed to ensure the device will operate throughout the day.

Manual and Support
* Simple explanatory labels are available through the 'help' button on each page.
* User may send a message/ question using the 'help' button
* Support and resources are available from the app developer via their website http://www.avazapp.com/ and also through their Facebook and Twitter page.
* Introductory video available as part of the app.
* Training modules available for communication partners (re: how to model aided language + suggestions of activities targeting specific sentences)

Considerations

Access
Consider the following:
* The user's pointing accuracy and motor control
* Sensory needs (vision and hearing)
* Layout (size and number of cells), as well as colours and contrast
* Fatigue
* Speed of access and operation
* Does the user need assistance from communication partner to access device (such as turn device on or off, navigate through pages etc..)?
* Appropriate and safe mounting
* Can more than one access method be used at once (e.g: switching and eye-gaze)

Communication
* Is the user a pre-intentional or intentional communicator?
* Consider the person's current language skills (understanding and production of language) and their potential language development.
* Does the system match the person's current language skills and does it allow for later language development?
* Does the system require literacy skills?
* Does the system allow access to literacy and literacy development?
* How is language represented? (pictures, symbols, text etc..)
* Can the individual compose novel messages?
* Can vocabulary/messages provided be used across several contexts/situations?

Support
The involvement of a speech pathologist is recommended to ensure the system meets the user's current communication skills and allows for language development.
* Users and support people require training in the programming and the use of this device. Access to consistent therapy support is highly recommended.
* Programming performed on the computer is more efficient than on the device for people who are supporting its use.
* The operational features of the device can be locked out if required. This can prevent unintentional programming and changes to the device.
* This device contains pre-programmed page sets that are designed to be used as a base for users to customise as required. This can reduce the programming time required.

Price Guide

* Avaz Australia - AAC App for Autism (Augmentative Picture Communication Software for Children with Special Needs) = Free

Optional in-app purchases

Models

Android Version 3.2.3
iOS Version 4.1

Standards

Standards
Some assistive technology needs to meet Australian or other standards. Standards may relate to materials, manufacturing and installation. Products that meet Australian or international standards will have written certification. To find out if a product meets Australian Standards ask the supplier to show you the certificate. For more information about standards also see
http://at-aust.org/home/assistive_technology/standards.html

TGA
Many of the items on the Assistive Technology Australia website are categorised as a Medical Device. Medical devices that are approved for use in Australia have been entered into a national database called the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG), which is maintained by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). You can ask the supplier for the ARTG number for the device you wish to purchase and search the ARTG for the entry. To access information on the ARTG visit www.tga.gov.au

When buying a medical device it is advisable to only choose a medical device that is recommended by a healthcare professional and has been included on the ARTG.