I quickly skimmed through this thread, and I'm happy to see so many folks trying to get Rogers to update Android to 1.6 or 2.0. We are really hoping for the updates too, mainly because my husband is blind. He has the HTC Dream. With the latest version of Android, there is a more advanced TTS (text-to-speech) engine. He is using the phone now with the with the latest TTS library, and eyes-free software from the Market, which allows him to tell time, dial, gives him GPS data, etc.. Recently someone developed a screen reader for the 1.6 and my guy would love to try it out, for obvious reasons. It makes software much more accessable! For example he might be able to use more advanced GPS technology (such as AndNav), so he could more easily go out for a walk without being taught everything by his mobility instructor. Just to be able to go on a simple walk or try something different than the usual route. He could browse the web, write notes. Essentially this could be a mini computer/companion of less than half the cost of a GPS manufactured for the blind (around $1000!). A note: We chose an Android phone for its superior GPS receiver and its open OS (my guy is interested in helping developers), instead of getting Apple's iPhone with voiceover, screenreading software.
I've written them recently, outlining why we would appreciate the update, and they replied that 1.6 was out! They pointed me to the Techsupport page to update the phone, however from what I can tell the build, 1.86.631.1, is still 1.5 but with the August update! (We're attempting to read up before updating)
So I'm hopeful that they will update in the New Year as hinted above in previous posts. However my hopes aren't high!
Mostly I wanted to write because I thought you folks could use more ammunition for the Rogers Android update cause. This is great not just for the blind but for folks with low vision or vision problems. Or for people who want to use their phone without looking at the screen. I figure the more reasons we give them, the better the chance for an update. They could be do-gooders for the blind community! My husband would appreciate more independence. And he has a big mouth (so do I) and we'd be thrilled to share how awesome Rogers is, IF Rogers steps up to the plate! Good image, more customers... ;D
To know more about Eyes-free and the TTS library, go here
eyes-free - Project Hosting on Google Code
Thanks for reading!!
Jennifer