DynaVox Releases Magnesium Molded Portable Speech Device

2009-12-17

DynaVox Mayer-Johnson, the world’s leading provider of communication and education solutions for individuals with speech, language and learning disabilities, today announced the DynaVox Xpress. The Xpress sets a new standard for hand-held speech solutions by bringing together comprehensive augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) tools with a variety of mainstream communication features.

An innovative, sleek and extremely portable device, the Xpress delivers powerful communication capabilities for individuals living with stroke, autism, Down syndrome, traumatic brain injury, aphasia, ALS, and apraxia of speech. This integration allows for robust communication in virtually any situation. It enables mobility and creates confidence. The Xpress is so small it can be held in one hand or two, and can easily be carried in a pocket or purse.

With its discreet design, the Xpress allows augmented communicators to blend in with the crowd and still speak their minds. Touch screen technology never before available in a speech device creates a compelling visual experience, and allows touching or “sweeping” to access more content quickly with fingers or thumbs.

Takes AAC technology to new heights. With multiple connectivity options such as Wi-Fi for internet and email access, Bluetooth, and infrared remote control, the Xpress offers unparalleled opportunities for communication. Multimedia tools such as MP3 and video players allow Xpress users to share their personalities in new ways.

Stands up to the demands of daily life. The Xpress is made of rugged magnesium and uses Flash memory to withstand the stresses of life. Swappable batteries, or an extended battery, ensure that Xpress users have the power they need to keep the conversation going all day.

Makes every voice – and every emotion – heard. Twin front-firing speakers allow Xpress users to be heard in virtually any environment. The new voices included with the Xpress are natural-sounding and take communication to the next level by adding emotion – laughter, crying, shouting and whispers. Preserves familiar content. Existing DynaVox customers and their care teams will recognize the powerful InterAACT language framework designed to meet the communication needs of individuals regardless of age or ability level. Thousands of pre-programmed pages minimize the need for programming.

Includes comprehensive DynaVox Mayer-Johnson support. Xpress users and their care teams will have access to the full-range of DynaVox Mayer-Johnson’s pre- and post-purchase support services including funding assistance, sales support, and technical support. The Xpress also gives the user one-touch access to technical support, where DynaVox personnel can remotely access the device and assist the user.

“Our clients told us they wanted a highly portable solution without sacrificing communication functionality,” said Ed Donnelly, CEO of DynaVox Mayer-Johnson. “The Xpress accomplishes this objective, and delivers a quantum technological step forward, in a device that looks and feels like mainstream technology. We are excited to be introducing the most transformative speech device ever to the AAC community.”