More Details

Software
This communication app can be downloaded to Apple products via the iTunes store.
* Compatible with all Apple iOS devices - iPad, iPhone or iPod Touch
* Version 3.2 requires iOS Version 6.0 or later
* Requires iTunes when syncing to a computer

Speech Quality
* Text-to-speech program with three Acapela natural sounding synthesised voices available.
* Female adult, male adult and a male child voice.
* Adjustable speech rate and volume

Access
* Direct access only
* User types using the onscreen keyboard
* Font size is adjustable
* Word prediction substantially reduces number of keystrokes required to produce words.
* The size of the screen and keys depending on which iOS device is being used and whether it is being used in portrait or landscape orientation.
* For people requiring larger keys, use with the iPad is recommended.
* A keyguard is a related product that can be purchased. This may assist physical access of the keys.

Vocabulary / Language / Pre stored Vocabulary
* Assistive Chat is a text-to-speech application suited to anyone who can spell.
It has a clear layout with onscreen keyboard, word prediction, capacity to store phrases within a 'favourites' list and to recall phrases from a 'recents' list.

* Word prediction is well designed, with six word prediction windows. Words will appear after one or two keystrokes, and can be selected from the word menu. It is also designed to predict the next word you are likely to want. Assistive Chat will learn your language, so that the word prediction improves with use.

* Assistive Chat version 3.2 has social media capabilities, so messages can be sent via email, sms, Facebook and Twitter.

* Assistive Chat is designed for the English Language.

Onscreen Keyboard
* Clear onscreen Qwerty keyboard
* Large letter keys when used with an iPad
* Six word prediction windows

Interfacing Capabilities
* iTunes on Mac or Windows computers
* Connectivity through email, SMS, Facebook and Twitter.

Memory
* Designed to generate spontaneous language and messages, rather than storing alot of vocabulary. Able to store useful phrases for everyday use.

Visual Display - Screen
* The size of the screen depends on whether you are using it with iPhone, iPod Touch, Mini-iPad or iPad.

* The screen has a large message window,although this varies depending on the version being used. There are differences in the size depending on the device and whether you have it configured in portrait or landscape layout.

Print Output
* Email and sms can be used to generate text

Programming
* Assistive Chat is a text-to-speech program with word prediction and capacity to store phrases.
* Word prediction can be turned on or off.
* You can customise whether to speak each letter, word or sentence

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
* Information is provided within the app when you purchase it about how it works.
It has a relatively simple design.
* Video demonstrations are available from the app developer Assistive Apps via their website.

Considerations

Hardware
This app is designed to be used with Apple iOS products only.
* It is important to select a device, whether it is an iPad, iPad-Mini, iPhone or iPod Touch that suits the user's needs.
* Select the tablet or phone that works for you - considering the size of the screen that will work best, access requirements, portability and compatibility with other technology you are using.

Related Products
There are products that can assist in customising the electronic device to suit the individual's needs, when they are using Assistive Chat for communication.

Consider the need for:
* external speakers to amplify the sound / speech when the device is used in noisy environments or outside
* a case or cover to help protect the device and increase it's durability
* a mounting system or a stand to help the user to access the device.
* keyguards to assist with accessing the device
* stylus to assist with accessing the device.

Access
* With both speech output and visual display, it is suitable for use with communication partners who have either a hearing or vision impairment.
* keyguards can be purchased to assist with accessing the keys, to increase accuracy when pressing messages.
*Specialised mounting or a stand may be needed for this app to be efficiently accessed by some users with a physical disability.
* A range of stylus options can be used to access the touchscreen. These can be purchased and/or customised for individuals to assist with reduced grip strength or fine motor difficulties.

Portability
* The size and weight of the device can allow for greater portability for people who are independently mobile.
* The user needs a way to carry the device with them and to get it out when needed.
* For people with limited mobility who use a wheelchair, mounting of the device may be required.

Vocabulary / Programming
This app is only suited to people who can spell.

Training Needs and Support
Assistive Chat is designed for users who will be able to learn how it works for themselves quite easily.
Advice from someone who has used this app, or from an AAC consultant may be helpful for people with no previous experience of using text-to-speech software programs.

Light Technology / Low Technology
* When people are using a communication app on an electronic device as their means of communication, they are advised to also have a non-electronic, "light technology" communication system, as a "back up".
* A spelling board would be a suitable light technology system for someone who uses Assistive Chat. This could be enhanced by also having useful everyday phrases.
* A low technology system enables people to communicate at all times, taking into account times when an electronic device is charging or not working. For instance, electronic devices may shut down when being used for an extended period in bright sunlight.

Models

Two models are available:
* Assistive Chat - English language
* Assistive Chat German

Maintenance

Refer to the supplier and manufacturer manual for maintenance instructions and safety warnings.
Regular back up of programming is highly recommended.

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.