AppleVis Is To Close Down: The Double Tap Panel Reacts

Double Tap

In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece delve into the sudden and surprising closure of AppleVis, a cornerstone resource for the visually impaired community in navigating Apple products. The episode features a panel including Shelly Brisbin, author of "iOS Access for All," Michael Feir, who penned "Personal Power," as well as podcast host and contributor Allison Meloy, all expressing their shock and discussing the impact of the site's shutdown.

The panel explores the reasons behind the closure, as detailed by AppleVis founder David Goodwin. Citing the unsustainable volunteer model and the challenges of maintaining a high-quality, community-driven site, Goodwin's decision reflects broader issues of content management and community behaviour online. The discussion also touches on the negative environment fostered by a vocal minority within the community, contributing to the site's demise.

Panel members share personal anecdotes about how AppleVis influenced their adoption and mastery of Apple products, highlighting its role in educating and supporting new users through forums, app guides, and beta notes. The conversation reveals a deep appreciation for the site’s contributions over 14 years and concerns about the future of accessible tech support for Apple users.

As the episode unfolds, the panel debates potential futures for AppleVis, including the possibility of Apple's involvement or transforming the service into a paid model to ensure sustainability.

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