It's alive!!! KNFB Reader lives! But now as OneStep Reader

Imagine my surprise this morning at seeing KNFB Reader listed amongst my installed apps with updates.

It's probably been more than 5 years since I last used the app. It feels almost as long since there was a meaningful update. It's also likely been as long since better options became available for a fraction of the price.

Okay, before I get too excited, I note that the update is only to give the app a new name and owner.

It's now OneStep Reader and developed by Sensotec who have taken over from the National Federation of the Blind.

Another reason not to be excited is its price still being $100. Anybody want to explain why on earth you would pay that kind of money when Voice Dream Scanner is better and tenth of the price?

Oh, and here's one more reason to hold back on any excitement - Sensotec asks you to visit their website at www.OneStepreader.com. If you do, you will currently be greeted by “This domain has been suspended due to non-completion of an ICANN-mandated contact verification.”

But, hey, it would be harsh and unfair to write the app off before it's barely begun its new life. Here's hoping for some meaningful updates and a price that makes more sense in the current market. And, choice is definitely no bad thing.

Here's the release notes from today's update:

What’s new?

The name for sure. But OneStep Reader, formerly known as KNFB Reader, continues to be your quick, accurate, and efficient access to any printed text through speech or Braille. So a new name, but with the same good functionalities! The transition of the KNFB Reader from the National Federation of the Blind (USA) to Sensotec and the accompanying name change to OneStep Reader (and OneStep Reader Multi) expresses the confidence of the NFB in Sensotec’s ability to provide continued support and upgrades that will benefit existing and future users.