Best iOS app for real time reading of very very tiny device displays (1.5" - 3.5")

By mcox, 12 April, 2023

Forum
iOS and iPadOS

Hello, Everyone.
I previously posted about field recorder accessibility, but this was removed because it wasn't strictly apple-related, which I understand, so I'm trying again.
I have two zoom field recorders, and am relying on a pair of eyes from who ever is around to read the display when I want to change something.
Would something like SeeingAI, Be My Eyes, or another iOS program perhaps be able to read the display in real time?
By that, I mean reading of battery charge, recording time and a few seconds to see if the recording level neater is peaking or not?
I am aware that one, or all of these programs will take a picture and then assess it, but I was just wondering.
Several of the zoom field recorders like the F3 and handy recorders like the H8 and H3VR do have bluetooth adapters and associated app's that may, or may not be accessible with VO, but... not quite the same thing...
If anyone else has any ideas, they would be greatly appreciated.
I have reached out to zoom to perhaps see if they can add some accessibility features such as beeps like the GoPro series has...But that's a story for maybe never.
Regards,
Melissa Cox.
PS:
someone will undoubtedly mention that both Zoom, Rode, and Shure have mics for iOS, I know that and have just ordered all three of them.
PPS:
the Shure Motiv app is particularly accessible, and I will do a review of the app and the Mic when I have some spare time.

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Comments

By Andy Lane on Monday, April 24, 2023 - 01:17

Hi, I haven’t had much luck with reading displays with any app over the years. I think Be My Eyes or Aira would be the best options for the time being but that might be about to change. Be My Eyes are currently integrating Chat GPT into their app. It’s in closed beta at present but I have a feeling it might be able to help with exactly this type of task. I think they are hoping to get it out of beta in a couple of months so won’t help right this minute but fingers crossed for June ish. If you have ordered the Rhode mic I’d be really interested in your thoughts. I’ve heard a particular sound on YouTube a few times and commented to find out who makes the mic and every time it’s been Rhode. They are very very pleasant to my ears.

By Squirrel on Monday, April 24, 2023 - 01:17

I don't believe that any existing tool is capable of providing reliable real-time information on the changing content of a display. Be My Eyes' upcoming virtual volunteer feature will provide feedback on a photo that you take of the display. It's likely to be more reliable and accurate than any existing tool, but will still only be capable of telling you what was on the display at the time the photo was taken.

Please let us know if you do find a solution!