Venlo, The Netherlands -- Océ, an international leader in digital document management and delivery, today announced the launch of Océ TouchTo Speech, a sophisticated talking printer that makes it easier for visually impaired people to perform day-to-day printing and copying tasks.
 
Five Océ VarioPrint multifunctional devices -- the Océ VarioPrint 1055, 1065, 1075, 2062 and 2075 printing systems -- are now equipped with audible aid functions that allow for faster and more accurate performance of copying and printing tasks with one key touch.
 
Biometric technology helps Océ customers to boost office productivity
The Océ Green Button Approach enables the user to automatically optimize images with a single touch of the green key. The user simply selects the print job and then the device takes over the image adjustment. The visually impaired user is given voice guidance on print job settings -- number of copies, single or double sided original or output - as well as service messages such as paper or toner refill.
 
No additional equipment required to comply with regulations
Océ TouchTo Speech has been developed in such a way that the complete solution is embedded in the multifunctional device. There is no need for additional tools or software to be installed, maintained or serviced. Organizations are increasingly obliged to promote equal opportunities for disabled people. Functionalities such as the TouchTo Speech and a Braille user interface help Océ customers to comply with legal guidelines and regulations as well as increase the ease of operability.
 
"Improving accessibility automatically improves office productivity"
"The Océ VarioPrint device features soft keys instead of the more common but often less user-friendly touch screens," said Océ International Product Manager Koen Biesbrouck. "This makes them suitable for a unique and specially designed Braille user interface pad, enabling visually impaired people to use Océ printers as easily as users with problem-free vision. We are seeing office productivity soaring through improving accessibility. The easier you make the office tools, the happier office people become. And happy people are productive people."
 
University of Worcester (UK) buys first Océ Touch To Speech device
"The University of Worcester recruits 40 per cent more disabled students than the national average and is committed to creating a supportive and welcoming environment for all students, whether they have a disability or not," said Catherine Hunt, Team Leader, Central Support Unit, Information and Learning Services, University of Worcester. "The Océ TouchTo Speech device has allowed us to make it easier for both students and staff with sight difficulties to perform every day printing and copying and we are delighted to be Europe's first to purchase this equipment."