Smart glasses and a smarter conjunction


Issue #16 • 8 July 2025

"Buongiorno Reader!

I just got back from a trip to the beautiful region of Tuscany in Italy, where I put a pair of Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses to the test as assistive tech. A blind colleague had called them a game-changer, so I was curious to see how they'd work for me. They showed promise—translating signs, answering location-based questions, and capturing hands-free photos and videos while tandem biking or climbing a bell tower.

But the fit was off, and like most glasses, they triggered my nystagmus-related headaches. So I decided to return them… for now. Still, this glimpse of AI’s potential in wearable tech has me hopeful for what’s ahead.

Have you tried the Meta glasses? How do they work for you?

Recent blog articles

The power of “and”

What if changing a single word could defuse tension, build empathy, and move your accessibility conversations forward? This post explores how swapping “but” for “and” can open the door to greater trust, creativity, and collaboration.

Access in Action with DeAnn Elliott

In this conversation, DeAnn Elliot of Insite Access shares how her lived experience shapes her approach to digital accessibility and inclusive design. From client education to user testing, she offers grounded, practical insights on making access real and impactful.

Back the Case for Vision Kickstarter

There are just two days left to support the Case for Vision Kickstarter—a hands-free assistive tech device that’s making a huge difference for me. If you haven’t checked it out yet, now’s the time! New backing tiers starting at just $20 have been added, and anyone who shares the campaign on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn with the hashtag #CaseForVision will be entered into a drawing to win a free Case for Vision stand if the project meets its funding goal.

Accessibility around the web

  • ​Creating accessible emails: step-by-step guide - Caitlin de Rooiji at The A11y Collective​
    Many of us agonize over color palettes and catchy subject lines, but forget that emails need to be accessible too. This article from The A11Y Collective walks through practical, often-overlooked strategies—like semantic HTML, meaningful link text, and contrast checks—to make your emails inclusive for everyone, including screen reader users. It’s a quick read that could transform how your messages are received.
    ​
  • ​Are you sure that table isn’t a list? - Tempertemper​
    Tables are great for comparing data—but are you sure you're not forcing content into a grid that would be better as a list? In this insightful post, Martin from tempertemper challenges our default design instincts and explores when lists offer better accessibility and responsiveness than rigid tables. It's a practical reminder that choosing the right semantic structure isn't just about code—it's about creating a smoother experience for everyone.
    ​
  • ​Using AI to meet WCAG Level AAA Guildelines - IAAP Webinar: Scenarios where AI and Accessibility Actually Work Together by Thomas Logan of Equal Access​
    Most of us give little thought to WCAG Level AAA conformance. But in this presentation, Thomas shows how Generative AI can help us meet some of these harder-to-reach success criteria. (This link starts playback at 41:45 into the video.)
    ​

Have a jolly July!

Simon Miner
Pedal Point Solutions


Need help with web accessibility testing, treatment, or training? Pedal Point Solutions offers a free assessment of your website.

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