Where accessibility meets innovation. Hosted by Evan Starnes, Blind Level Tech explores the latest in assistive technology, accessible design, and everyday tools that empower the blind and low-vision community. Each episode dives into real stories, expert insights, and practical solutions—from screen readers and AI tools to mobility tech and inclusive apps. Whether you’re blind, low vision, a professional in the accessibility space, or simply curious about how technology is reshaping lives, this show offers fresh perspectives and actionable takeaways.
Produced by Aftersight, Blind Level Tech is more than a tech podcast—it’s a platform for inclusion, discovery, and possibility.
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Where accessibility meets innovation. Hosted by Evan Starnes, Blind Level Tech explores the latest in assistive technology, accessible design, and everyday tools that empower the blind and low-vision community. Each episode dives into real stories, expert insights, and practical solutions—from screen readers and AI tools to mobility tech and inclusive apps. Whether you’re blind, low vision, a professional in the accessibility space, or simply curious about how technology is reshaping lives, this show offers fresh perspectives and actionable takeaways.
Produced by Aftersight, Blind Level Tech is more than a tech podcast—it’s a platform for inclusion, discovery, and possibility.
“Holy Braille” to Codex: Multi‑Line Braille That Clicks
Blind Level Tech
34 minutes
5 months ago
“Holy Braille” to Codex: Multi‑Line Braille That Clicks
Evan Starnes sits down with Alex Russomanno, CEO of New Haptics, to unpack the Codex—a 4‑line x 32‑cell, multi‑line braille display powered by pneumatic actuation, a full‑surface touch interface (double‑tap to route the cursor), and mechanical Perkins keys built for daily work. They trace the journey from the early “Holy Braille” research to a desktop‑class device with an external pump, Linux under the hood, and a growing software layer. We cover emerging screen‑reader integrations (JAWS/NVDA/Narrator; VoiceOver expected later), onboard apps (including a Wordle‑style game), durability testing aimed at 5–7 years of heavy use, and a target price just under $10,000. Plus, BLT’s “sandwich of the week” and what’s next for multi‑line workflows.
Contact Info
Guest — Alex Russomanno (New Haptics)
Website: https://www.newhaptics.com
Contact: Use the site’s contact form (messages route to Alex)
Aftersight / Blind Level Tech
Email: feedback@aftersight.org
Voicemail: (720) 712‑8856
Chapter Markers
00:15 Intro & CSUN context: first hands‑on with Codex
01:05 Meet Alex—Michigan roots & “Holy Braille” origins
03:50 Early pneumatic prototypes (2015) → lessons learned
07:10 Naming the Codex—literacy meets tech
08:10 Hardware tour: 4x32, 8‑dot cells, line select keys, touch surface
10:05 Double‑tap cursor routing; keeping full braille real estate
11:35 Desktop design: external pump & the “white‑noise” hum
13:55 Mechanical Perkins keys & haptics philosophy
14:55 Use cases & screen‑reader roadmap (JAWS/NVDA/Narrator; VO later)
16:35 Onboard apps/games; update approach
18:10 Under the hood: Linux base + custom UX layer
19:40 Biggest challenge: dot feel & long‑term reliability
22:50 No top film: how Codex protects mechanics differently
24:55 Pricing & form factor decisions (why 4 lines; 8‑dot)
26:20 Community co‑design & honest feedback
27:30 BLT “Sandwich of the Week”
28:50 What’s next for New Haptics
31:00 “Design with dignity, then iterate”
31:30 Where to find Codex & trade shows
33:10 Listener CTAs & outro
Blind Level Tech
Where accessibility meets innovation. Hosted by Evan Starnes, Blind Level Tech explores the latest in assistive technology, accessible design, and everyday tools that empower the blind and low-vision community. Each episode dives into real stories, expert insights, and practical solutions—from screen readers and AI tools to mobility tech and inclusive apps. Whether you’re blind, low vision, a professional in the accessibility space, or simply curious about how technology is reshaping lives, this show offers fresh perspectives and actionable takeaways.
Produced by Aftersight, Blind Level Tech is more than a tech podcast—it’s a platform for inclusion, discovery, and possibility.
