TouchChat is a full-featured Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) solution for individuals who have difficulty using their natural voice. TouchChat is designed for individuals with Autism, Down Syndrome, ALS, apraxia, stroke, or other conditions that affect a persons ability to use natural speech.
TouchChat gives an individual the ability to choose a vocabulary file which consists of pages and buttons that contain words, phrases, sentences, and other functions. Messages are spoken with a built-in voice synthesizer or by playing a recorded message. Various synthesized and custom voice options are available, allowing the user to choose a voice that fits their own personality.
Various vocabulary files are included in English, French, and Spanish. Visit our website for a full list of options.
The Upgrade Store provides additional in-app purchases, including the WordPower® series of AAC vocabularies designed by Nancy Inman. WordPower is a word-based vocabulary that allows for easy and intuitive communication and is available in English, Spanish, and French. The Upgrade Store also provides English vocabularies files (Gateway©, Pixon®60 and Talk About AAC), language packs including vocabulary files and synthesized voices (Hebrew and Arabic), services, and symbol libraries.
Vocabulary files within TouchChat are fully customizable, including pages, grid layout, buttons, messages, and symbols. Select from over 45 button actions and nearly 40,000 Symbolstix® symbols* when creating new buttons. You can also choose to use an existing image or take a photo with the built-in camera. Additionally, gestures can be used to navigate to new pages, speak messages, etc.
*Please note: PCS© symbols can only be used in TouchChat after an in-app purchase is completed.
Button activation timing can be adjusted to meet the needs and capabilities of the user. Adjustments include button dwell time and button release time. Buttons can also be configured to activate on release.
Additional access methods such as scanning, head tracking, and eye tracking may be available based on device model and may require an additional hardware purchase.
Text generated with TouchChat can be shared on social media or via iMessage® and email using a wireless connection. Generate a message, push on the text window, and choose a service. Additionally, text can be copied to/from TouchChat and other applications so it can be spoken out loud.
Users can program buttons to play audio files such as music from the media library or videos from the device or a YouTube™ link.
Once programming is complete, vocabulary files can be imported and exported through AirDrop, email, iTunes® file sharing, DropBox™ or Google Drive™. TouchChat also enables users to subscribe to iShare and store custom files for safe keeping (not available to customers residing in the European Union).
iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.