The use of phones and tablets has recently expanded to a size that would have been unimaginable when the first iPad was launched in April 2010. In the preceding six years mobile devices have overtaken laptops or desktops as the most popular method of using the web and a huge range of actions that once required expensive computer software can now be carried out through the use of relatively cost effective apps. With over 1.5 million apps available for download on the Apple app store alone, there is a bewildering amount of choice available to each user. As you would expect, some of these apps have been designed to help those with dyslexia. There is a range of different solutions, each offering something slightly different from the others.
One of the largest advantages offered by using apps as a method of assisting with difficulties caused by dyslexia is the portability of the software. Previously accessibility software required a computer to work, and although laptops are transportable, simply using your phone allows you to access an accessibility solution wherever you are. In addition to this, using apps on your mobile device offers a level of discretion has not been previously available. As the sight of a person using a phone or tablet has become so common the regular passerby would have no indication that an individual was using assistive technology.
An important factor when designing an app is to make it as user-friendly as possible. Often designers and developers will spend a great deal of time altering the functionality and layout so that the app can be as simple to use as possible. As a result of this, most apps are highly intuitive and so do not require any training in order to use them, unlike more complicated assistive technology software that is designed for computer operating systems.
Finally, one of the most prominent of the benefits of using Apps is that they are often more affordable than software designed for standard computers. The main reason for this is because of the amount of functionality that an app can contain. As an app is a small file, each app has a limited amount of functionality, as a result, most apps aim to carry out a small selection of processes, whereas computer software with its greater storage space has the ability to contain a much larger range of processes and functions. Of Course, this can be seen in both a positive and a negative light. Apps are normally very affordable but are limited to how much they can do. If you are looking for a piece of software that offers a variety of functions to help you, then computer software might be better for you. However if you are looking for a programme that will carry out one or two functions, ten apps are an excellent option.