The Starship Changeling Profile Photo

The Starship Changeling

Hello everyone, and welcome aboard The Starship Changeling. please move down to the end of each row, filling every available seat, and stand clear of the doors. My name is Randy, and I often go by Changeling. I am an #A11y (accessibility) consultant, lover of horror novels and roller coasters and the human partner in crime to a feline named Alex. I mostly talk about blindness related issues, things i'm personally doing, tech, books and more. For more info, see the page titled "About" in the navigation section, or see the footer of any site page for other corners of the internet where I can be found. Thank you, and enjoy your ride on The Starship Changeling.

🪑 Sit With Me

    ∞

    🏪 Holidays Among Humans, 2024

    Get in the mood with this Changeling and Alex inspired holiday design. Perfect for bringing that truly unique touch for your holiday decorating.

    Image Description: The image depicts a whimsical scene featuring a small, green alien-like creature (Changeling) with large eyes and pointy ears, wearing a pink scarf. Changeling is riding a bright green scooter. Attached to the scooter is a small sleigh, in which a fluffy white cat (Alex) with big eyes is sitting. The background shows a snowy, wintery setting with snow-covered trees and houses, and the scene is illuminated with a soft, warm glow, suggesting a festive or magical atmosphere.

    [BUY IT NOW!!!](shop.starshipchangeling.net

    Changeling driving a scooter and pulling Alex the ace cat in a sleigh across a holiday landscape.
    ∞

    Looking for Information after Hurricane Milton

    📰I obeyed an evacuation mandate for Sarasota, FL ahead of Milton with the understanding my apartment and most of my possessions might be gone by today. I say this to tell you that for me right now, the not knowing is worse than any outcome. If anyone knows anything about the status of Florida Palms Condos just south of Sarasota International Airport, please contact me. My info can be found on my online profile.

    ∞

    Meet the Accessibility, #A11y Dragons

    Five dragons gathered around a person at a computer.

    Premise

    Each of these dragons failed to completely fit the Dragon Realm somehow. They came here to foster the development of an accessible and inclusive world. Each of them has attributes needed for the job, and they won’t go home until it’s finished.

    Taylor

    Taylor, the green dragon plays a video game at their desk.

    Taylor (they/them) is the most playful and relaxed of the dragons. Their difficulty staying attentive to tasks and seeing jobs through to completion often made them fit out in the Dragon Realm. Their relaxed and playful nature helps keep the team’s morale up, even when the team is working to clean up one of Taylor’s partially completed projects.

    Interests

    • Videogames
    • Pizza
    • Skydiving
    • Attending Taylor Swift concerts
    • Rollercoasters.

    Dislikes

    • Broccoli
    • The legend of Saint George
    • Extremely inebriated humans
    • Strict schedules.

    Brittany

    Brittany, the pink dragon stands on the edge of a forest looking playful.

    Brittany (she/her) is the nurturer of the group. As part of her final research project in the Dragon Realm, Brittany decided to do a study of human nursery rhymes and children’s songs to determine the overall lessons humans were teaching their young. The project ended, but Brittany’s fascination with the research topic continued. She eventually left dragon Realm after being arrested for nurturing young dragons that had been released in the wild and were struggling. Brittany uses her nurturing and playful inclinations to help the team feel like a family.

    Interests

    • Human children and human parenting techniques
    • Camping
    • Fairytales.

    Dislikes

    • Thunderstorms
    • Scary stories/movies
    • Loud sounds like fire alarms and rock concerts.

    Evan

    Evan, the purple dragon paint on a canvas with various art supplies scattered about.

    Evan (he/him) is the thoughtful member of the group. His hesitancy to try new things without being completely sure about them made Evan an object of scorn in Dragon Realm, and his tormentors would gang up on him causing Evan to not be able to articulate his reasons for being so thorough and analytical about new things—even old things, sometimes.. He finds he is less likely to have an upset stomach for no reason here, or that his body aches and he often feels like he is throwing punches under water just to get through his day. The team gives him the time he needs to do his research, and he gives them thoughtful solutions to team challenges. He is often the calmest one in the group.

    Interests

    • Painting
    • Meditation
    • Camping
    • Listening

    Dislikes

    • Surprises
    • Public speaking
    • Dating
    • Going to the doctor
    • Scary stories/movies
    • Getting his picture taken, but he can be a trooper when he needs to be.

    Sarah

    Sarah, the blue dragon shelves books in a library.

    Sarah (she/her) was the first to leave dragon Realm. She has always been able to perceive an order to the worlds and the things within them, she feels not quite right when things are out of their order and so she has dedicated her life to preserving it. Naturally, this clashed with the chaos of Dragon Realm. She is the most steady team member in any fast-paced, chaotic situation, usually caused or complicated by Taylor or Skyler.

    Interests

    • Libraries
    • Making lists
    • organizing spreadsheets
    • Scary movies/stories.

    Dislikes

    • Messy work areas and file cabinets
    • Meeting friends without first having established a planned friend activity
    • Dealing with strong feelings or emotions
    • Watching her other friends have hard times.

    Skyler

    Skyler, the red dragon wrestles with Taylor, covering their mouth with one claw.

    Skyler (they/them) proved too fierce, even for Dragon Realm. They were a professional wrestler called The Muzzler for their signature take-down move in which they would pin and muzzle their opponent to keep them from roaring. they were forced to flee the realm after killing three other wrestlers in self-defense when they ambushed them and attempted to hurt him such that Skyler could never wrestle again. They now use their passion to be the driving force behind the group’s mission. They are also the groups’ heavy for when any of the #A11y dragons is mistreated by humans and/or other dragons.

    Interests

    • Wrestling and other types of fighting for sport
    • Videogames
    • Roller coasters
    • Scary movies/stories
    • Attending Taylor Swift concerts.

    Dislikes

    • Bullies
    • Mandatory anger management sessions and/or talking about feelings in any other way
    • Sitting still
    • When Sarah, Evan, or Brittany are upset.

    Together

    Together, these five dragons promote the idea that accessibility is for everyone, no matter who you are. Their mission, to guide Destiny toward a more inclusive tomorrow. Nay sayers beware!

    ∞

    Changeling's Guide to Discord for Desktop with Screen Reader Users (2nd Edition)

    Table of Contents

    1. Foreword
    2. Disclaimer
    3. One More Thing…
    4. Introduction 5. Getting Started 6. Key Features for Screen Reader Users
    5. Installing Discord
    6. Creating an Account
    7. Navigating the Discord Interface
    8. Joining Servers
    9. Using Servers
    10. Text Chat
    11. Voice Chats
    12. Stage Channels
    13. Settings
    14. Troubleshooting
    15. Conclusion
    16. Appendix: Discord Keyboard Shortcuts

    Foreword

    This is Changeling. If you’re reading this, it’s most likely because you need or want to use Discord and are wondering how to use the platform with your screen reader, assuming such a thing is possible. I bet at least some of you are just watching for the first significant difficulty so you can declare the whole endeavor a failure and beg your social group to use some other platform you know works. The fact that I haven’t found another platform that does what Discord does as well as Discord does it and the fact that Discord continues to improve its accessibility experience are the reasons a new version of this guide exists.

    Disclaimer

    This guide was written with the assistance of Perplexity AI. This was done to ensure a consistent plain tone throughout the guide to make it more user-friendly. I used what I know to verify and correct the parts written by the AI. And to write the original guide five years ago, of course.

    One More Thing…

    This guide is part of what I do in my spare time, and I do it largely because it makes me happy to provide the information in one place. That said, I live in a chronic spoon shortage, so any monetary donations you might make by visiting changeling.link and clicking the pay button on that page will be greatly appreciated.

    Introduction

    Discord is a popular communication platform that can be effectively used with screen readers, making it accessible to users who are blind or visually impaired. This guide will walk you through the basics of navigating and using Discord with a screen reader, helping you get started and make the most of its features.

    Getting Started

    To begin using Discord with a screen reader:

    • Install the Discord desktop app or access it through a web browser.
    • Log in to your account or create a new one if needed.
    • Ensure your screen reader is active and properly configured.

    Key Features for Screen Reader Users

    Discord offers several accessibility features that work well with screen readers:

    • Keyboard navigation: You can navigate through servers, channels, and messages using keyboard shortcuts.
    • Proper labeling: Most elements are correctly labeled for screen readers to interpret.
    • Voice channels: Easily join voice chats and communicate verbally with others.
    • Screen reader announcements: Discord provides relevant information as you navigate the interface.

    In the following sections, we’ll explore how to navigate Discord’s interface, join servers, participate in text and voice chats, and customize your experience for optimal accessibility. Whether you’re new to Discord or looking to improve your screen reader usage, this guide will help you communicate effectively on this versatile platform.

    Installing Discord

    To install Discord using a screen reader, follow these steps:

    1. Go to the Discord website (discord.com) using your web browser.
    2. Navigate to the download link, which should be easily accessible near the top of the page. Press Enter on this link to start the download.
    3. Once the installer file has downloaded, launch it to begin installation.
    4. The Discord installer is straightforward and mostly automated. You don’t need to take any specific actions during installation - just let it run.
    5. You can use the up and down arrow keys or your screen reader’s Say Dialog command to read the installation progress, but the installer will handle everything automatically.
    6. When installation is complete, Discord will prompt you to log in or create an account.
    7. If you’re creating a new account, follow the on-screen prompts to enter your details. Make sure to use a username that identifies you clearly, especially if joining specific servers.
    8. After logging in or creating an account, Discord will launch and you can begin using it with your screen reader.

    For the most accessible experience, it’s recommended to use the Discord desktop app rather than the browser version. The app tends to work better with screen readers and offers more customization options. Remember that Discord is generally quite accessible, with most elements properly labeled for screen readers. However, you may encounter some challenges navigating its complex interface at first. Take some time to explore the layout and familiarize yourself with Discord’s structure of servers, channels, and chat areas.

    Creating an Account

    To create a Discord account from the desktop app using a screen reader, follow these steps:

    1. Download and Install Discord: Begin by downloading and installing the Discord desktop application from the official website.
    2. Launch the App: Open the Discord app. Your screen reader will announce the login screen.
    3. Access the Registration: Navigate to the “Register” or “Create Account” button and activate it.
    4. Fill Out the Registration Form: You will see a form to complete. Use your screen reader’s navigation commands to move through the fields: 5. Enter your email address. 6. Create a username. 7. Choose a password. 8. Enter your date of birth.
    5. Submit the Form: After filling in the required information, locate and activate the “Continue” or “Create Account” button.
    6. Complete the CAPTCHA: Discord may present a CAPTCHA challenge. Look for a text-based option that is more accessible for screen reader users and follow the prompts to complete it.
    7. Verify Your Email: Once your account is created, Discord may ask you to verify your email address. Check your inbox for a verification message and follow the instructions to confirm your account.
    8. Log In: After verifying your email, you will be logged into your new Discord account.
    9. Explore the Interface: Take some time to familiarize yourself with Discord’s layout. The app has improved its accessibility, with most elements properly labeled for screen readers.
    10. Utilize Keyboard Shortcuts: Discord supports many keyboard shortcuts that can enhance your navigation experience. You can access a list of these shortcuts by pressing Ctrl + Shift + ?

    If you encounter any accessibility challenges, consider enabling screen reader usage tracking in the Privacy & Safety settings to help improve your experience.

    Here are some key tips for navigating the Discord desktop application with a screen reader:

    • Use keyboard shortcuts to move between different sections:
      • Ctrl + 1: Main user tab
      • Ctrl + 2-9: Switch between servers
      • Ctrl + Tab: Cycle through tabs
    • Navigate messages:
      • The most recent messages are at the bottom, above the chat input box.
      • Each message is marked as a heading, so you can use heading navigation (e.g., H key) to move between messages.
      • Shift + H will jump to the most recent message.
    • Use element navigation:
      • Channels appear as links.
      • Voice channels and other controls appear as buttons.
      • Settings categories appear as tabs.
    • Access settings:
      • Press Ctrl + , to open general settings.
    • Chat input:
      • There are two edit boxes - the first is search, the second is chat input.
      • Use Enter to send a message, Shift + Enter for new lines.
    • Enable screen reader usage tracking:
      • Go to Privacy & Safety settings to allow Discord to track screen reader usage for improving accessibility.
    • Utilize Discord’s keyboard shortcuts:
      • Press Ctrl + Shift + ? to access the full list of keyboard shortcuts.

    Remember that most elements in Discord should be properly labeled for screen readers. Take some time to explore the interface and familiarize yourself with its structure of servers, channels, and chat areas. If you encounter any accessibility issues, you can provide feedback to help improve the experience.

    Joining Servers

    Here are some key steps for joining Discord servers using a screen reader:

    1. Open the Discord app and log into your account.
    2. Use the Quick Switcher feature by pressing Ctrl + K (on desktop) to search for servers to join.
    3. Type in the name or invite code of the server you want to join in the search box.
    4. Use the arrow keys to navigate through the search results.
    5. Press Enter on the server you want to join.
    6. If it’s a public server, you can join immediately. For private servers, you’ll need an invite link.
    7. With an invite link, paste it into the “Join a Server” dialog (accessible via the + icon on the server list).
    8. Press Enter or activate the “Join” button to join the server.
    9. The new server will appear in your server list on the left side of the Discord interface.
    10. Use Ctrl + 1-9 shortcuts to quickly switch between your joined servers.
    11. Navigate channels within a server using the arrow keys.

    Remember that most elements in Discord should be properly labeled for screen readers. Take some time to explore the interface and familiarize yourself with the layout of servers, channels, and chat areas. If you encounter any accessibility issues, you can enable screen reader usage tracking in Discord’s Privacy & Safety settings to help improve the experience.

    Using Servers

    Here are some key tips for navigating within Discord servers using a screen reader:

    • Use Ctrl + 1-9 keyboard shortcuts to quickly switch between servers.
    • Navigate channels within a server using the arrow keys. Channels appear as links, while voice channels and other controls appear as buttons.
    • Use heading navigation (e.g., H key) to move between messages. Each message is marked as a heading.
    • Press Shift + H to jump to the most recent message in a channel.
    • The chat input box is typically the second edit box on the page. Use Enter to send a message, Shift + Enter for new lines.
    • Access server settings and options using Ctrl + , (comma).
    • Use the Quick Switcher feature by pressing Ctrl + K to search for specific channels or users within a server.
    • Most elements in Discord should be properly labeled for screen readers. Take some time to explore the interface and familiarize yourself with the layout.
    • Remember that Discord uses both “Browse Mode” and “Focus Mode” for navigation. Browse Mode allows using screen reader shortcuts, while Focus Mode enables native keyboard support.

    If you encounter accessibility issues, consider enabling screen reader usage tracking in Discord’s Privacy & Safety settings to help improve the experience. By utilizing these navigation techniques and keyboard shortcuts, screen reader users can effectively move through Discord servers and access the various features and content.

    Text Chat

    Here are some key tips for participating in text chat on a Discord server using a screen reader:

    • Navigate to the desired text channel using the arrow keys. Channels appear as links.
    • The chat input box is typically the second edit box on the page. Focus on it to start typing your message.
    • Use Enter to send a message, and Shift + Enter for new lines within a message.
    • To read recent messages, use heading navigation (H key) to move between messages. Each message is marked as a heading.
    • Press Shift + H to jump to the most recent message in a channel.
    • Use Ctrl + K to open the Quick Switcher and search for specific channels or users within a server.
    • Enable screen reader announcements for new messages in Discord’s accessibility settings. This allows you to hear new messages as they arrive.
    • Use keyboard shortcuts like Ctrl + Up/Down arrow to scroll through your message history.
    • To reply to a specific message, navigate to it and use the appropriate keyboard command to open the reply interface.

    Remember that most elements in Discord should be properly labeled for screen readers. Take some time to explore the interface and familiarize yourself with the layout of channels and chat areas. By utilizing these techniques, screen reader users can effectively participate in text chats on Discord servers. If you encounter any accessibility issues, consider enabling screen reader usage tracking in Discord’s Privacy & Safety settings to help improve the experience.

    Voice Chats

    Here are some key steps for participating in voice chat on Discord using a screen reader:

    1. Navigate to the desired voice channel using the arrow keys. Voice channels are typically marked with a speaker icon.
    2. Press Enter on the voice channel to join it. Your screen reader should announce that you’ve connected to voice.
    3. To mute/unmute yourself: 4. Use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Shift + M. 5. Or navigate to the mute button near the bottom of the Discord window.
    4. To deafen/undeafen (turn off all audio): 7. Use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Shift + D. 8. Or navigate to the deafen button near the bottom of the Discord window.
    5. To adjust voice settings: 10. Press Ctrl + , to open Settings. 11. Navigate to the Voice & Video section. 12. Adjust input/output devices, volume levels, etc.
    6. To disconnect from voice: 14. Press the disconnect button near the bottom of the Discord window. 15. Or use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Shift + E.
    7. Use the Quick Switcher (Ctrl + K) to easily jump between voice channels.

    Remember that most elements in Discord should be properly labeled for screen readers. Take some time to explore the interface and familiarize yourself with the layout of voice controls. If you encounter accessibility issues, consider enabling screen reader usage tracking in Discord’s Privacy & Safety settings to help improve the experience. By utilizing these techniques and keyboard shortcuts, screen reader users can effectively participate in voice chats on Discord. The key is to familiarize yourself with the layout and available controls.

    Stage Channels

    To participate in Live Stages on Discord using a screen reader:

    1. Navigate to the Stage channel using the arrow keys. Stage channels are typically marked with a stage icon.
    2. Press Enter on the Stage channel to join as an audience member. Your screen reader should announce that you’ve joined the Stage.
    3. To raise your hand to speak: 4. Use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + R. 5. Or navigate to the “Raise Hand” button near the bottom of the Discord window.
    4. If a moderator invites you to speak, you’ll be moved to the speaker area. Your screen reader should announce this change.
    5. To mute/unmute yourself when speaking: 8. Use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Shift + M. 9. Or navigate to the mute button near the bottom of the Discord window.
    6. To leave the Stage: 11. Press the disconnect button near the bottom of the Discord window. 12. Or use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Shift + E.
    7. Use the Quick Switcher (Ctrl + K) to easily jump between different Stages in a server.
    8. To follow along with text chat during a Stage: 15. Navigate to the text chat area, typically to the right of the Stage interface. 16. Use standard screen reader commands to read messages.

    Remember that most elements in Discord should be properly labeled for screen readers. Take some time to explore the Stage interface and familiarize yourself with the layout. If you encounter accessibility issues, consider enabling screen reader usage tracking in Discord’s Privacy & Safety settings to help improve the experience. By utilizing these techniques and keyboard shortcuts, screen reader users can effectively participate in Live Stages on Discord. The key is to familiarize yourself with the layout and available controls.

    Settings

    Here are some key tips for accessing and navigating Discord settings using a screen reader:

    • Open Discord settings:
      • Press Ctrl + , (comma) to open the general settings menu.
    • Navigate settings categories:
      • Settings categories appear as tabs.
      • Use arrow keys to move between categories.
      • Press Enter to select a category.
    • Adjust individual settings:
      • Use up/down arrow keys to move through settings options.
      • Press Enter or Spacebar to toggle switches or open dropdown menus.
      • Use arrow keys to select options in dropdown menus.
    • Access Privacy & Safety settings:
      • Navigate to the “Privacy & Safety” tab.
      • Here you can adjust privacy options and enable screen reader usage tracking.
    • Close settings:
      • Press Esc to exit the settings menu.
    • Additional tips:
      • Most elements in Discord settings should be properly labeled for screen readers.
      • Use heading navigation (H key) to jump between sections quickly.
      • The Tab key can be used to move between interactive elements.

    Remember that Discord uses overlays for many menus, including settings. These typically appear at the bottom of the page, so you may need to navigate to the bottom to find newly opened menus. Take some time to explore the settings interface to familiarize yourself with the layout and options available.

    Troubleshooting

    Here are some common issues when using Discord with a screen reader and how to troubleshoot them:

    • Messages not being read automatically:
      • Enable screen reader announcements for new messages in Discord’s accessibility settings.
      • Use keyboard shortcuts like Shift + H to jump to the most recent message.
    • Difficulty navigating between channels and servers:
      • Use Ctrl + 1-9 shortcuts to quickly switch between servers.
      • Use arrow keys to navigate channels within a server.
      • Utilize the Quick Switcher (Ctrl + K) to search for specific channels or users.
    • Focus getting lost or jumping unexpectedly:
      • Take time to familiarize yourself with Discord’s layout and focus order.
      • Use heading navigation (H key) to move between sections more predictably.
      • If focus jumps unexpectedly, try refreshing the app (Ctrl + R).
    • Trouble with voice chat controls:
      • Use keyboard shortcuts like Ctrl + Shift + M to mute/unmute.
      • Navigate to the bottom of the Discord window to find voice control buttons.
    • Difficulty reading message history:
      • Use heading navigation (H key) to move between messages.
      • If focus jumps unexpectedly when scrolling, try navigating from the most recent message.
    • Inaccessible elements or unlabeled buttons:
      • Enable screen reader usage tracking in Discord’s Privacy & Safety settings to help improve accessibility.
      • Check for Discord updates, as accessibility improvements are frequently made.
    • Overlays not dismissing properly:
      • Try pressing Esc multiple times (up to 10) to dismiss overlays.
      • If overlays persist, refresh the app (Ctrl + R).
    • Issues with the mobile app:
      • Consider using the desktop app instead, as it tends to be more accessible.
      • Keep the mobile app updated, as accessibility improvements are ongoing.

    Remember that Discord is continually working on improving accessibility. If you encounter persistent issues, consider providing feedback through Discord’s accessibility feedback channels.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, using Discord with a screen reader can be a rewarding experience that allows users to engage in vibrant communities through text and voice communication. While there may be challenges, such as navigating the interface or accessing specific features, the improvements made by Discord in terms of accessibility have significantly enhanced usability for screen reader users.

    By familiarizing yourself with keyboard shortcuts, utilizing the Quick Switcher, and understanding the layout of servers and channels, you can effectively navigate and participate in discussions. Additionally, enabling screen reader usage tracking can help Discord continue to improve its accessibility features, ensuring a better experience for all users.

    As you explore Discord, remember that practice and patience are key. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the community for support or to provide feedback on your experience. With the right tools and knowledge, you can fully enjoy the benefits of this dynamic platform while connecting with others.

    Appendix: Discord Keyboard shortcuts

    Here is a comprehensive list of Discord keyboard shortcuts:

    Basic Shortcuts

    • Show all keyboard shortcuts: Ctrl + / (Windows) or Cmd + / (Mac)
    • Search for servers, channels, or DMs: Ctrl + K (Windows) or Cmd + K (Mac)
    • Search for a message in a channel: Ctrl + F (Windows) or Cmd + F (Mac)
    • Get help: Ctrl + Shift + H (Windows) or Cmd + Shift + H (Mac)
    • Scroll chat up: Page Up
    • Scroll chat down: Page Down
    • Jump to the oldest unread message: Shift + Page Up
    • Upload a file: Ctrl + Shift + U (Windows) or Cmd + Shift + U (Mac)
    • Navigate between servers: Ctrl + Alt + Up/Down Arrow (Windows) or Cmd + Option + Up/Down Arrow (Mac)
    • Navigate between channels: Alt + Up/Down Arrow (Windows) or Option + Up/Down Arrow (Mac)
    • Go to the next screen/previous text channel: Ctrl + Tab (Windows) or Cmd + Tab (Mac)
    • Toggle between last server and DMs: Ctrl + Alt + Right Arrow (Windows) or Cmd + Option + Right Arrow (Mac)

    Message Shortcuts

    • Edit message: Up Arrow (when focused on a message)
    • Delete message: Backspace (when focused on a message)
    • Pin message: Ctrl + P (Windows) or Cmd + P (Mac)
    • Reply to message: Ctrl + R (Windows) or Cmd + R (Mac)
    • React to message: Ctrl + Shift + Y (Windows) or Cmd + Shift + Y (Mac)
    • Copy message text: Ctrl + C (Windows) or Cmd + C (Mac)
    • Mark message as unread: Ctrl + Shift + U (Windows) or Cmd + Shift + U (Mac)

    Voice and Video Shortcuts

    • Toggle mute: Ctrl + Shift + M (Windows) or Cmd + Shift + M (Mac)
    • Toggle deafen: Ctrl + Shift + D (Windows) or Cmd + Shift + D (Mac)
    • Start new call: Ctrl + (backtick) (Windows) or Cmd + (backtick) (Mac)
    • Answer incoming call: Ctrl + Enter (Windows) or Cmd + Enter (Mac)
    • Decline incoming call: Esc

    Chat Shortcuts

    • Mark server as read: Shift + Esc
    • Mark channel as read: Esc
    • Create a private group DM: Ctrl + Shift + T (Windows) or Cmd + Shift + T (Mac)
    • Show pinned messages: Ctrl + P (Windows) or Cmd + P (Mac)
    • Show channel members list: Ctrl + U (Windows) or Cmd + U (Mac)
    • Open emoji picker: Ctrl + E (Windows) or Cmd + E (Mac)
    • Open GIF picker: Ctrl + G (Windows) or Cmd + G (Mac)

    These shortcuts can significantly enhance your efficiency and navigation within Discord, making it easier to communicate and manage your interactions.

    ∞

    Monsters Described Promo with Description

    Here’s the Monsters described video from yesterday with an #AI generated description.

    The video shows a black cat sitting in the middle of a group of other cats. The background is dark, but there are streaks of light coming from the top, suggesting a spotlight. The cats all have a very distinct, almost demonic, appearance. Their eyes are piercing and intense, and they have pointed ears and long, sharp teeth. The cat in the middle, however, looks calm and collected, as if it is the leader of the pack. The whole image is designed to give off a sense of mystery and danger.

    ∞

    Monsters Described No. 1: Jeepers Creepers

    Explanation

    This post is the first in a series what iconic monsters from the horror movie genre look like.

    Disclaimer

    I am a totally blind horror fan. Therefore, all descriptions are generated by Perplexity AI unless other wise noted. While create Perplexity pages for each description, I thought I’d store them here just in case the pages Perplexity generates can’t be accessed at any point for any reason.

    Jeepers Creepers

    Released in 2001, runtime 90 minutes. Jeepers Creepers IMDB page Jeepers Creepers Wikipedia Page (four films currently)

    Perplexity Description

    The Creeper from the Jeepers Creepers film series is a monstrous, ancient entity that emerges every 23 years for 23 days to hunt and feed on human body parts, which it uses to regenerate and sustain itself.

    Physical Description

    • Humanoid Form: The Creeper has a humanoid shape with a tall, imposing figure.
    • Skin and Texture: Its skin is leathery and pale green, giving it a reptilian or bat-like appearance.
    • Facial Features: It has a grotesque face with sharp, pronounced features, including razor-sharp teeth and a pair of extra nostrils near the bridge of its nose, which it uses to smell fear and identify desirable body parts in its victims.
    • Claws and Talons: The Creeper has long, pointed fingernails and talons on its feet, which it uses for attacking and climbing.
    • Wings: It possesses large, bat-like wings that enable it to fly and swoop down on its prey.
    • Apparel: To blend in, it often wears tattered human clothing, including a long coat, hat, and boots.

    Behavior and Abilities

    • Feeding and Regeneration: The Creeper sustains itself by consuming human organs, which it uses to replace its own failing body parts. This ability makes it nearly immortal, as it can heal from severe injuries by consuming the appropriate human parts.
    • Hunting Method: It hunts by instilling fear in its victims, as it can detect fear through its enhanced sense of smell. This makes it particularly effective at choosing its prey.
    • Intelligence and Creativity: Despite its monstrous nature, the Creeper is highly intelligent and displays a morbid creativity. It decorates its lair with the bodies and body parts of its victims, treating them as trophies.
    • Weapons: The Creeper uses a variety of weapons, many of which are crafted from the bones and flesh of its victims. It is particularly fond of throwing weapons and has a medieval battle axe.
    • Vehicle: It drives a modified, decrepit 1941 Chevrolet COE truck, which it uses to transport bodies and to chase down potential victims.

    Origins and Mythology

    • Ancient Entity: The exact origins of the Creeper are shrouded in mystery, but it is believed to be a demonic or supernatural being that has existed for centuries. Some theories suggest it may be based on the Mayan god Camazotz, associated with death and sacrifice.
    • Feeding Cycle: The Creeper’s activities are cyclical, emerging every 23rd spring for a 23-day period to hunt and feed before returning to hibernation.

    Personality and Traits

    • Sadistic Nature: The Creeper enjoys the hunt and the fear it instills in its victims, often toying with them before making the kill.
    • Artistic Tendencies: It has a twisted appreciation for art, creating sculptures and decorations from the remains of its victims.
    • Resilience: The Creeper is incredibly resilient, able to survive and heal from extreme injuries, making it a formidable and nearly unstoppable force.

    The Creeper is a terrifying and complex antagonist, blending elements of horror, supernatural mythology, and sadistic intelligence to create a truly nightmarish creature.

    Perplexity Citations:

    [1] https://villains.fandom.com/wiki/Creeper_%28Jeepers_Creepers%29 [2] jeeperscreepers.fandom.com/wiki/Cree… [3] www.charactour.com/hub/chara… [4] https://www.reddit.com/r/FanTheories/comments/ope014/the_creeper_from_jeepers_creepers_is_a_mayan_god/ [5] screenrant.com/jeepers-c… [6] vuorensola.com/2022/10/3… [7] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeepers_Creepers_%282001_film%29 [8] http://moa.omnimulti.com/The_Creeper_%28Jeepers_Creepers%29

    ∞

    Creating and Using iMessage Links

    by Changeling and Perplexity AI

    Creating and using iMessage links can be a powerful way to streamline communication, especially for businesses or individuals who want to make it easy for others to contact them. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand the process:

    iMessage links are special URLs that, when clicked, open the Messages app on an Apple device and pre-fill the recipient’s information and optionally the message body. These links are particularly useful for initiating conversations quickly without the need to manually enter contact details.

    1. Identify the Recipient: Determine the email address or phone number of the recipient. For example, if the recipient’s email is mail@starshipchangeling.net, the basic iMessage link would be: 
      imessage://mail@starshipchangeling.net
      When this link is clicked on an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, it will open the Messages app with mail@starshipchangeling.net as the recipient.

    Adding a Pre-Filled Message

    1. Add a Body Parameter: You can also pre-fill the message body by adding a body parameter to the link. For example, to pre-fill the message with “Hello”, the link would be: 
      imessage://mail@starshipchangeling.net&body=Hello
      This way, when the link is clicked, the Messages app will open with mail@starshipchangeling.net as the recipient and “Hello” already typed in the message field.

    Using Phone Numbers

    1. Using Phone Numbers: If you prefer to use a phone number instead of an email address, the format is similar. For example, to send a message to the phone number 1234567890, the link would be: 
      imessage://1234567890
      And to pre-fill the message body: 
      imessage://1234567890&body=Hi
      This will open the Messages app with 1234567890 as the recipient and “Hi” in the message field.

    On Social Media and Websites

    1. Share on Social Media: You can share these links on platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, LinkTree, and TikTok. This allows your followers or customers to easily start a conversation with you via iMessage.

    2. Add to Websites: You can also add these links to your website. For example, you can create a button or a widget on your landing page that users can click to contact you via iMessage. This is particularly useful for businesses that want to provide quick customer support.

    1. HTTPS Links: If you need a solution that works across different platforms (not just Apple devices), you can use HTTPS links. These links can detect the user’s device and redirect them accordingly. For example, if the user is on an iPhone, they will be redirected to the iMessage link; otherwise, they can be redirected to another URL or a different messaging app like WhatsApp or Telegram.

      Example of an HTTPS Link:

      https://l.imessage.bot/mail@starshipchangeling.net?body=Hello👋

      This link will open an internet browser, check if the user’s device is an iPhone or Mac, and then redirect them to the appropriate messaging app or URL.

    Practical Tips

    Disabling Rich Previews

    1. Disable Rich Previews: Sometimes, you might want to send a link without the rich preview that iMessage generates. To do this, you can place a period before and after the link. For example: 
      .https://www.example.com.
      This will send the link as plain text without the preview.
    1. View Shared Links: If you want to see all the links shared in a conversation, you can tap on the contact’s name at the top of the message thread, scroll down, and find the “Links” section. This feature is available in iOS 17 and later.

    By following these steps, you can create and use iMessage links effectively, making it easier for others to contact you and enhancing your communication efficiency.

    Sources [1] iMessage Link Preview Tool - RenderForm https://renderform.io/blog/posts/imessage-link-preview/ [2] Technical Note TN2444: Best Practices for Link Previews in Messages https://developer.apple.com/library/archive/technotes/tn2444/_index.html [3] What are iMessage deep links and how to use them? https://help.loopmessage.com/en/article/what-are-imessage-deep-links-and-how-to-use-them-77icb/ [4] Links not clickable in iMessage app - Apple Developer Forums https://forums.developer.apple.com/forums/thread/76124 [5] Create an ‘iMessage Me’ link | Beau Giles https://b3.au/2012/02/imessage-me-link/ [6] How to type an address in iMessage that will correctly Hyperlink to … https://www.reddit.com/r/applemaps/comments/ok6cks/how_to_type_an_address_in_imessage_that_will/ [7] How to send a link in a text message (SMS) - Omnisend https://www.omnisend.com/blog/the-best-way-to-send-links-in-text-messages/ [8] Apple Messages for Business Templates — Rich Links Template https://developers.liveperson.com/apple-messages-for-business-templates-rich-links-template.html

    ∞

    BPI Fall Social

    I’ve been playing with canva and exploring its accessibility and whether or not alt text transfers out. in case it doesn’t, here’s a description of the imbedded design: The image is a promotional poster for an event called the “BPI Fall Social” happening in September 2024. The text “Join the fun at bpi.gay” is written at the top. The central part of the image features a colorful, fantastical dragon with vibrant scales in shades of blue, green, purple, and red. The dragon is perched on a bridge over a river, with a city skyline in the background. The sky is filled with dramatic, colorful clouds, suggesting either sunrise or sunset. The text “BPI Fall Social” is overlaid on the image of the dragon.

    BPI Fall Social by Randy Reed (Changeling)
    ∞

    Thrust Your Opinion On Me! No really. It's fine.

    I’m almost sorry when new tech features come out now. They always seem to promote the new wave of people with a “truly unique” opinion they just have to thrust upon you without geeting your concent to become aware of said opinion. I liked the world better when things like religion, politics and personal choices were matters of the heart and not a branding avenue.

    ∞

    I’ll be watching #WWDC2024 today at 13:00 Eastern and putting my thoughts as replies to one post. scan the QR code at 13:00 Eastern to be taken to my thread and to be provided with a link to the official event.

    QR code with Changeling logo and the directive Scan to be redirected to the content.
    ∞

    🧞 When you enter a social situation and someone misgenders you—not a huge deal, then makes such a show of correcting that everyone in the room has a front row seat to to the shit show… That, I’ve just discovered, is worse than someone getting it wrong by accident to begin with or just not giving a fuck and doing whatever they want..

    ∞

    This is definitely worth listening to, particularly the part about Braille books being burned. If you don’t see parody between that and what is going on now, I’d love to try on your realitiy blinders.

    #LivingBlindfully Transcript, Living Blindfully episode 284, celebrating 200 years of Braille and a bright future, lawyers who think all blind people can’t read, and Sonos makes progress while understating the impact of recent events - livingblindfully.com/lb0284tra

    ∞

    In reply to x.com/debramjac…

    Thank you for the kind words. also, for the chance to appear as part of this important project.

    ∞

    Reply with Your Affirmations to Acknowledge Be my Eyes' New Inclusive language Guide!!!

    Received Be My Eyes’ Inclusive Language Guide. I am surprised by some of the results, particularly the ease with which person-first language (a lot of work for no pay-off in my experienced opinion as a receiver of this language) is being ushered out the door. I acknolwledge I have some unlearning to do in this area, mostly pushing back on the administrations’ idea that person-first language is still correct. FTR, I still taking each person’s lead on which language you use is still the most fullproof way to go.

    ∞

    This Book is Cool: Featuring guest Randy Reed

    Some of you may remember me talking about being on a webqast called “This Book is Cool.”. I just received the email with the finished product. See my photos page

    Helen Keller – This Book is Cool

    ∞

    Whole>Sum: Impressions of Stephen king's You like It Darker

    Finished reading: You Like It Darker by Stephen King 📚

    If you like the classic short story as done by King, this book has a lot to offer. The Cujo sequel was actually my least favorite, but the story that gets used to sell a collection usually is the one I like the least. I think it’s because that story gets so much hype, then the actual thing ends up being a let down. I liked “Fin”, “The Fifth step” and “Daniel Coughlin’s Bad Dream” the best. Even so, this is a collection where the whole is greater than the sum of the parts.👍🏼

    ∞

    A changeling After All

    😎🧚🏻🐲 Was watching an old sitcom the other day and heard one of the characters refer to athe #LGBTQIA2ss+ community as, “the fae crowd”. Not saying that a good name for the community as a whole–pretty sure it’s not, but if we take it as a possible name and at how i’ve lived my life and where I’ve ended up in relation to this specific community, the name Changeling seems more and more appropriate all the time.

    ∞

    #A11y issue with #UberEats app and proposed solution

    Accessibility Issue with UberEats App

    The main point I’m making is that there appears to be an accessibility issue with the UberEats app when using VoiceOver on iOS devices. Specifically, the issue arises when trying to report a problem with an order. Here’s a clearer explanation: When attempting to report an issue with an order on the UberEats app while using VoiceOver (the screen reader for iOS), there are two main problems:

    • Inaccessible Dropdown Menu: The dropdown menu that allows you to select the specific item with issues is inaccessible, even with Screen Recognition enabled. This feature is crucial for reporting the problem accurately.
    • Photo Requirement: After managing to get past the inaccessible dropdown menu once, the app now requires you to upload a photo of the item with issues. This step presents another accessibility barrier for visually impaired users.

    Suggested Solution

    I propose that Uber should allow users to mark themselves as needing a stable experience for accessibility reasons. This would prevent beta features or experimental updates from being rolled out to those users, ensuring a consistent and accessible experience. Additionally, I suggest that other technology companies could benefit from adopting a similar approach, where users with accessibility needs can opt-out of receiving beta or experimental features that may introduce accessibility issues.

    ∞

    I Just hacked Sighted People!!!

    For all my kindred spirits in the blind community, I’ve just figured out how to hack sighted people. Next time they forget to provide an accommodation, try saying, “Thank you for paying me the complement of forgetting I am blind. Nevertheless, i am blind.” then tell them what you need. It wakes them up just enough.

    ∞

    Mature Reflection Concerning Apple's Disrutptive ipad ad

    After thinking about it, here’s what I’ve decided about the Apple #iPad ad that stirred the pot:

    Aple is known as a disruptor. Because our society approaches certain topics with outright polarization, the only way to continue being a disruptor is to meet society where it is. In other words, the company wanted to wake us up and it worked. We’ll all remember even if we don’t actually watch said ad.

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