Recently, a
request was posted in an Android community forum seeking information on a
mobile app capable of announcing the time without needing to look at or
manually activate the device, essentially rendering visual controls
unnecessary. Regrettably, the only response to this inquiry mocked the
questioners and did not provide any useful solution. This situation suggests a
potential lack of resources designed to meet the actual needs of those with
visual impairments or individuals relying on accessibility features,
underscoring the importance of developing inclusive technology.
In an effort
to help people who might have trouble seeing or facing other obstacles in their
day-to-day tasks, I decided to look for a way to make knowing what time it is
easier for them. So, I turned to Google Play, believing that there must be apps
out there designed to solve this very issue.
My search was fruitful, leading me to discover multiple apps that work by speaking the time out loud when asked through voice commands. This discovery shines a light on the importance and usefulness of such technology, especially for those who find it difficult to read a clock by sight. It's clear from this exploration that there's a real demand for gadgets and apps that are built to be accessible, ensuring everyone, regardless of their physical abilities, has the tools they need to navigate daily life more effortlessly.
TellMeTheTime
"Let's
Talk Time" is a mobile app specifically designed for Android users, also
known as "The Vocal Clock". Its core function is to announce the
current time using a calm, semi-automated voice. This app stands out for its
adaptability, designed to suit a wide array of personal tastes and
requirements.
Main
attractions of "Let's Talk Time" include the simplicity of hearing
the time announced aloud at any moment, by simply giving a voice command. This
feature is incredibly helpful for people who face challenges with sight or have
difficulty moving, making it hard for them to check the time in the
conventional way. Moreover, the app is highly customizable, permitting each
user to modify it to fit their unique desires or specific situations. In
essence, "Let's Talk Time" offers a practical and customizable solution
for those with visual difficulties or anyone in need of an alternative way to
know the current time, ensuring a smooth and tailored user experience.
The app
"TellMeTheTime" really shines as an outstanding example of voice
clocks for tablets and smartphones. Its simplicity, the ability to personalize,
and its reliable performance all come together to provide a top-notch option
for people who prefer hearing the time spoken aloud. This app stands out
because you can easily adjust how often it updates you, using either a simple
tap or by bringing the device close. It works great even if you're not actively
using the app or if your screen is off.
In short,
"TellMeTheTime" proves to be an excellent choice for those needing a
straightforward and efficient method to know the time through speech. Its
design for adjusting how frequently you receive notifications adds to its
appeal and practicality, ensuring it's a user-friendly option for anyone in
search of a vocal time-telling app.
Talking Clock
When you
might have trouble with the TellMeTheTime app, think about trying the Talking
Clock by Kokesoft as a plan B. This app shines by letting you know the time
with a simple shake of your smartphone. Once shaken, the app quietly speaks out
the time. It's designed to be highly customizable, giving you control over its
features. From picking your language (options include English, Portuguese,
French, and German) to customizing it to fit users from all over the globe.
The app goes
further in personalizing your experience. It allows you to add a friendly
greeting before it tells you the time, which is a thoughtful touch for those
who are hard of hearing, giving them a moment to bring the phone closer to
listen.
It's packed
with thoughtful settings to make it more accessible and comfortable to use.
These settings let you use your phone's nearness sensor for a smoother
interaction, set the loudness of the time announcements, and even decide how
often you want to be updated with the time. All these elements work together to
make it more than just a utility—it's an accommodating tool that thinks about
the diverse needs of its users.
Kokesoft's
innovative effort with this app not only offers a hands-on solution for keeping
track of time but also steps up in making technology more inclusive. The app's
thoughtful design and customizable features mark it as a preferred option for
those in search of an adaptable and empathy-driven approach to timekeeping.
When you
first install an app that speaks the time aloud, especially on phones with
Android 13, you'll want to check the sound settings right away. It seems the
app starts off with the volume turned up pretty high. This could catch you off
guard or even startle you the first time it announces the time out loud. So,
it's a good idea to turn the volume down a bit before you get going. This small
step will make your first time using the app more enjoyable. Adjusting the
sound is not just about making things easier on your ears; it's about making
the whole experience with the new app smoother from the start.