A review by Steph Cutler
This product was reviewed in September 2012.
Introduction
My name is Steph, I have central vision loss and I am reviewing my new Panasonic TV with Voice Guidance. I am not great with technology but I am reasonably competent with it. I don't spend hours in front of the box, but I do enjoy watching TV.
When I heard that Panasonic had launched the first range of talking TVs I was keen to find out more.
I had a beast of a TV that my Grandad gave me years ago (even my Grandad had a better TV than me!). I had planned to treat myself to a new telly, as I can see my friend's newer, high definition TV is much better than mine. So, this new range came at just the right time for me.
Purchasing and Delivery
My first step was to download the RNIB factsheet. I would really recommend doing this as information in this factsheet is really clear, concise and useful. It answered most questions I had within the one document. It is also available in alternative formats.
One of the things that was most helpful for me was to be able to find out which models supported voice guidance easily. In the past I have found trying to obtain information about accessible products a bit tricky, and it always seemed to take twice as long as it should. This time it was simple, which was a refreshing change.
My one top purchasing tip would be to shop around. The same product varied from different retailers, sometimes to the tune of £100!
I was so keen that I didn't even go into a shop to try the TV out. The RNIB factsheet and YouTube video was so good I knew I could buy one with confidence.
I ordered my TV from a well-known on-line retailer. I was given an exact time to expect the delivery and it showed up right on time!
Setting Up
You need sighted assistance to set the TV up in the first instance, but this seemed easy and took no time at all. Once this has been done it is possible for a blind or partially sighted person to set up the voice guidance independently.
There are various ways you can access the instructions. I chose to watch a short instructional film on YouTube which can be found from the link above.
I had to watch it several times but I managed to set it up relatively easily. It was nice not to have to rely on someone else for a change.
Instructions are also within the factsheet described above which I also referred to.
I am by no means a techy type, but I did found the setting up straight forward. I imagine most blind or partially sighted people will find the instructions user-friendly. Even if you are not great with technology, have a go as you might just surprise yourself!
Using Voice Guidance
The majority of Panasonic's 2012 Viera series of TVs come with talking features which enable anyone who is blind or partially sighted to independently find a TV programme from the on-screen guide, turn audio description on and off and find descriptions about various programmes.
It is absolutely brilliant to be able to surf the channels and hear what channel you are on, what programme is showing and what programmes are coming up.
The remote control looks or feels a bit daunting at first, but the main buttons you need soon become familiar. Once the voice guidance is set up you use your TV like any other. The difference is you have far more control, information and choice.
Shortcomings and areas for improvement
I have found no shortcomings with my Voice Guidance TV. The only improvement would be that more product developers take Panasonic lead and work with specialist charities to develop in-built accessibility.
Conclusion
I love the fact that the software is built in to the mainstream product and is not an additional expense or hassle. It is great to have better access and I would really recommend a talking TV to any blind or partially sighted person. Steph Cutler can be contacted via making-lemonade website