Problem with Merlin Bird ID

By GEL2020, 28 December, 2022

Forum
iOS and iPadOS

I've been using the Merlin Bird ID app, especially the Sound ID function, for identifying bird calls. It was working beautifully with Voiceover. I recently updated to an iPhone 14 Pro with the latest version of iOS. I've reinstalled Merlin with the North America data pack. And now the app is not functioning well with VoiceOver and I can't seem to access the Sound ID function. The app history indicates a new release on Dec. 6. Has anyone else had experience with this new version of Merlin Bird ID and have you run into any problems with VoiceOver accessibility?

Thank you!

--Gordon

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Comments

By OldBear on Sunday, January 22, 2023 - 20:48

I used it just yesterday on a new SE to identify a starling. It worked as usual with VO. In fact, it didn't seem to have the focus issue that it had on my other phone. I did the phone to phone transfer, and I didn't have to reinstall a pack, though.

By Dizno on Sunday, January 22, 2023 - 20:48

I just opened Merlin Bird ID
And I upgraded my pack.
However I don’t have any birds right now making any sound so I can’t really test it against the bird.
But it seems to be functioning OK?
I will try to get back to you tomorrow when I hear some birds.

By GEL2020 on Sunday, January 22, 2023 - 20:48

After playing around a bit, I can sometimes get Merlin's Sound ID to work. But it seems as if I'm getting some weird interaction between Siri, VoiceOver and the Merlin controls. At least I'm making progress. Thanks again!

By Lisa G Barrick on Friday, March 8, 2024 - 20:48

I'm finding the list of skins and calls are not on the update I have. I use those to call in other birds so I can see what other birds show up at my house.
Now it's not fun to use anymore. Could someone tell me how to get this back on the app please. I'd really appreciate it. Thank you.

By OldBear on Friday, March 8, 2024 - 20:48

Maybe reinstall the pack for your area.
I'm not sure what you mean by skins, but in the tabs down at the bottom of the screen, there is an explore option that will list the birds in the pack, and you can select the bird, then sounds, then calls. It plays for me.

By Ryder on Friday, March 22, 2024 - 20:48

I’m glad you brought this app to my attention. We go wilderness hiking several times a week and thought I can hear some very interesting bird songs and calls I can’t see them to identify them. It identified them today, sometimes several at a time as they were all singing very actively. Phainopepla, Lucy’s Warbler, cactus wren and Pyrrhuloxia were a few we heard today here in the desert southwest.
At first the app was not all there but a message popped up and said it would work better Thursday which is today and it definitely did. Don’t know why but it’s a fine app now. Spring has sprung with wildflowers and birds everywhere.