ATI Disney Unveils First-of-its-Kind Outdoor Audio Description Technology for Guests

[Nancy Lynn]

John Gassman wrote:


  HI,
  I can't wait to try this here at Disneyland. I hope I can test it before 
it becomes available next year.
  Please pass this along to various lists.
  John

  Disney Unveils First-of-its-Kind Outdoor Audio Description Technology for 
Guests with Disabilities
  Beginning June 27, guests with visual disabilities can explore Walt Disney 
World theme parks in a whole new way through an enhanced Disney-designed 
device that provides detailed audio description of outdoor areas and fits in 
the palm of a guest's hand.
  "Disney Parks have long been at the forefront of providing accessibility 
for guests with disabilities," says Greg Hale, chief safety officer and vice 
president, Worldwide Safety and Accessibility, Walt Disney Parks & Resorts. 
"We are pleased to build on this legacy with new technology that enables us 
to do something that has never been done before­provide rich audio 
description in moving rides and outdoor environments."
  Via an interactive audio menu, the newly enhanced Assistive Technology 
Device lets guests choose the type of information they would like to receive 
about outdoor areas, from architectural elements to the location of the 
nearest restroom. The 7.2-ounce device, which utilizes wireless technology 
to pinpoint its location and take pre-programmed actions, also offers guests 
at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort detailed audio description 
of key visual elements, including action and scenery, for more than 50 
attractions; amplified audio for most theater-type attractions for guests 
with mild to moderate hearing loss; handheld captioning that enables guests 
to read captions while enjoying specific rides; and activation of closed 
captioning in pre-show areas where television displays narrate the upcoming 
experience.
  Disney has patented and licensed the assistive technology, which could 
serve a wide variety of retail, commercial and industrial applications. The 
technology is already being used at the World of Coca Cola Museum, The Hall 
at Patriot Place and the Dallas Cowboys Stadium and will receive the 
National Society of Professional Engineers 2010 "New Product Award" next 
month.
  The Handheld Assistive Device is offered at no cost with a refundable 
deposit at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort theme parks. Audio 
description of outdoor areas will be available at Disneyland Resort next 
year.


  John Gassman Sales Reservation agent WDTC

  Providing guests with their very own Daily disney Shangri-la!
  16652
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