Learning to use the keyboard without seeing the keys is often referred to as “Touch Typing”. It is important for blind and low vision computer users master the keyboard layout in order to be confident, efficient, and quick on the computer. The process of learning touch typing is mostly about practice and repetition. Below you will find a listing of software programs designed to help users master or speed up their touch typing skills. They are organized by platform starting with Microsoft Windows, then Apple’s mobile platform iOS, and finally ending Apple’s Mac OS.
PC
Talking Typer for Windows
$89 – Offers Free Demo
http://shop.aph.org/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Product_Talking+Typer+for+Windows_1088609P_10001_11051
Works on Windows 98 or later
Talking Typer for Windows is appropriate for both completely blind and low vision users. It provides spoken feedback but does not require a screen reader to be installed on the computer. You can also customize the size of the font used in the colors of the text and the background making it highly customizable for low vision users.
Video Tutorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OGJlwR1Lm0g
Typio
$100 – Offers Free Demo
https://www.accessibyte.com/typio/
Windows 98 or later
Typio is appropriate for both completely blind and low vision users. It does not require any additional software in order to provide speech. Voice feedback and visuals are highly customizable to fit the preferences of the user. It also provides some additional modes for both exploring the keyboard and independently testing typing speed and accuracy.
Video Demonstration: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nw5g3VtDcts
TypeAbility
Requires – JAWS, ZoomText Fusion, MAGic
$150 – Demo available
http://www.yesaccessible.com/typeability.html
TypeAbility is appropriate for both completely blind and low vision users. It requires the installation of a screenreader in order to work. Supported screen readers include JAWS, MAGic, and ZoomText Fusion. All voice controls are set and customized inside of the installed screen readers settings. TypeAbility allows for on-screen text to be customized to match the needs of low-vision users.
Video Tutorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-VLm4b_Y3Ug
Talking Typing Teacher
$105
http://www.braillebookstore.com/Talking-Typing-Teacher.1
Windows 98 or later
Talking Typing Teacher is appropriate for both low vision and completely blind users. It does not require the installation of a screenreader for voice feedback.
Video Example: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rL7XBU8g9-o
Keystroke
Free
https://www.cfb.state.nm.us/apps
This is a simple and free keyboarding program, but requires a screen reader for verbal feedback.
iOS
Talking Typer
$5
https://itunes.apple.com/app/id992103463
This is a very low cost version of Talking Typer and is designed for the iPhone and iPad. To get the most out of it you will need a hardware keyboard connected to your mobile device. It provides spoken feedback and is fully compatible with the VoiceOver screen reader.
Video Demonstration: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wd74nG38Sag
Mac
Keystroke
Free
https://www.cfb.state.nm.us/apps
Keystroke is a free and very simple keyboarding program which is compatible with VoiceOver to add spoken feedback for blind and visually impaired users.
Blind Support 