Last week, I had the opportunity to attend the 39th annual CSUN Assistive Tech Conference in Anaheim, California, hosted by California State University, Northridge. This was my inaugural experience at the conference. To learn more about this event, you can visit the conference webpage.
My primary focus during the conference was on a series of lectures about artificial intelligence and its applicability in enhancing accessibility. The daily schedule, typically from 10 AM to 5 PM, was filled with lectures, providing ample opportunities for attendees to network and exchange ideas. The evenings were equally engaging, with activities like karaoke and trivia ensuring that fun was had by all.
Although I had previously heard about this prominent tech conference, I had not felt compelled to attend until this year. A generous contributor to my organization, the Blind Endeavors Foundation, persuaded me to go and facilitated a meeting with YouTube influencer Sam Seavey. My passion for technology, my interest in creating a documentary about technology, and this new connection were pivotal in my decision to travel to Anaheim.
An important aspect of my trip was the support of my girlfriend, who was instrumental in helping me navigate the unfamiliar setting. Her local connections in California proved beneficial, especially when meeting an online acquaintance who is blind and was also attending the conference. Fortunately, my girlfriend and this new friend, both magicians, arranged for us to visit the Magic Castle, where we enjoyed various performances and delved into the mansion’s rich history. To discover more about the Magic Castle, click here.
The conference wasn’t limited to discussions on artificial intelligence; it also covered topics such as video games for the disabled, cybersecurity, and innovative technologies like surgically implantable chips. Prominent companies like Apple, Amazon, and Sony were among the presenters, enriching the week with insightful lectures.
In addition, I attended the exhibit hall, where vendors and developers from across the globe set up booths to showcase the products they are creating. I explored new types of long white canes for orientation and mobility, refreshable braille displays, and devices designed to convert visual media into tactile representations. I also discovered various accessible phones for blind and visually impaired users. The exhibit hall is truly remarkable and, in my opinion, one of the conference’s major draws.
For anyone with a disability eager to experience the latest in technology, discuss future developments with companies, or place pre-orders for new devices, this exhibit hall and conference are the places to be. The hall not only presents a fantastic array of innovative products but also provides a unique opportunity for attendees to engage directly with the creators behind these technological advancements.
The experience was both educational and adventurous, providing a glimpse into the future of technology and its daily impact on our lives. The week concluded with a birthday celebration for a close friend in Los Angeles, conveniently positioning us for our departure from Los Angeles International Airport.
I am eager to attend the conference again next year, with plans to delve deeper into the subjects that resonate most with me.
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