APH Product Named One of TIME’s Best Inventions of 2022

LOUISVILLE, KY / AGILITYPR.NEWS / November 11, 2022 / APH Product Named One of TIME’s Best Inventions of 2022

Louisville, KY (November 11, 2022) – American Printing House for the Blind (APH) is pleased to announce that soon-to-be-released Polly has been recognized by TIME as a best invention in the accessibility category. Developed in partnership with Thinkerbell Labs, Polly is an electronic Wi-Fi enabled device that will assist users in learning and reinforcing braille concepts, and includes contracted and uncontracted braille.

“It is a great honor to be featured in TIME 200 Best Inventions with a product we are confident will help with early literacy and emerge as a great tool for the U.S. market. This combination of technology and science allows APH to continue to innovate for the benefit of blind and low vision community, educators, and consumers,” said Craig Meador, APH President.

Polly can provide practice and gamify the braille learning process for students. It can be used as a stand-alone device for students, or teachers can create individualized vocabulary lessons and customize the device for students learning needs through the online portal, Helios, included with purchase of the device.

“This device is geared to allow students to be able to learn when their TVI (teacher certified in visual impairment) is not present. With the current TVI shortage, Polly will allow students to have consistent access and immediate positive feedback to braille education, which will result in better and earlier access to braille literacy at a pivotal age,” said Donna McClure-Rogers, APH Early Childhood, and CVI Product Manager.

Polly is named after Polly Thomson, who spent 46 years as Helen Keller's companion and interpreter. Polly is currently being field tested, with plans for an official launch date in 2023.

To sign up for the Polly waitlist, please visit:

https://www.aph.org/polly-wait-list/

See TIME’s list of 200 Best Innovations of 2022 here:

www.time.com/best-inventions-2022

About American Printing House for the Blind

American Printing House for the Blind is a worldwide leader in designing innovative lifelong learning solutions for children and adults who are blind or visually impaired. We believe in the power and necessity of learning to open the doors to educational success, satisfying employment, social inclusion, active citizenship, and personal well-being. We level the learning playing field by providing specialized technology, materials, products, and services that are essential for education and life. For more information, please visit www.aph.org.