About
AssistiveWare is a leading developer of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) apps, working closely with the AAC community to empower people who cannot rely on spoken language. Their product suite spans multiple communication modalities: Proloquo and Proloquo2Go offer symbol-supported AAC for children and adults; Proloquo4Text provides a text-to-speech AAC solution for literate users; and simPODD delivers a PODD-based (Pragmatic Organisation Dynamic Display) communication system. Supplementary apps like Pictello (visual storytelling) and accessible keyboards (Keeble, Keedogo Plus) round out their ecosystem. AssistiveWare places a strong emphasis on education and best practices, offering an extensive resource library, video tutorials, and blog content covering topics like core word teaching, Gestalt Language Processing, and modeling strategies. Their Learning Service supports classroom educators implementing AAC. The apps are widely used by autistic individuals, nonspeaking people, speech-language pathologists, educators, and families. AssistiveWare actively advocates for the AAC community, supporting initiatives like autism acceptance campaigns and documentary films that spotlight nonspeaking individuals' experiences. Their tools are available in multiple languages and are designed with accessibility and evidence-based AAC practice at their core.
Key Features
- Symbol-Supported AAC: Proloquo and Proloquo2Go provide robust symbol-based communication boards suitable for a wide range of users, from beginners to advanced communicators.
- Text-to-Speech Communication: Proloquo4Text offers a text-to-speech AAC solution tailored for literate users who need an alternative voice output method.
- PODD-Based Communication: simPODD implements the evidence-based Pragmatic Organisation Dynamic Display (PODD) system, giving users a structured and flexible communication framework.
- Educational Resources & Support: An extensive library of guides, videos, posters, and blog posts helps caregivers, therapists, and educators implement AAC effectively using core words and modeling strategies.
- Accessible Keyboard Apps: Keeble and Keedogo Plus provide accessible, customizable keyboards designed for users with motor or cognitive differences, including early learners.
Use Cases
- A nonspeaking autistic child uses Proloquo's symbol-supported boards to express needs, feelings, and ideas at home and at school.
- A speech-language pathologist configures Proloquo4Text for a literate adult with ALS who needs a text-to-speech voice output device.
- A classroom educator uses AssistiveWare's Learning Service and core word resources to implement AAC strategies across a special education classroom.
- Parents of a child with complex communication needs use Proloquo2Go to create a personalized vocabulary and model language throughout daily routines.
- A rehabilitation center integrates simPODD into therapy sessions for clients who benefit from the structured PODD communication framework.
Pros
- Comprehensive AAC Ecosystem: AssistiveWare offers multiple apps covering symbol, text, and PODD-based communication, making it possible to find the right fit for any user's needs and abilities.
- Evidence-Based & Community-Driven: Products are developed in close collaboration with the AAC community and grounded in evidence-based practices like core word instruction and modeling.
- Rich Learning & Support Resources: Detailed tutorials, a resource library, and an active blog empower families, educators, and therapists to successfully implement AAC without needing external training.
Cons
- iOS-Centric Platform: The AAC apps are primarily designed for Apple iOS/iPadOS devices, limiting accessibility for users on Android or other platforms.
- Paid App Pricing: Apps are sold at a premium price point, which may be a barrier for some families or individuals without funding support or insurance coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is AAC and who is it for?
AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. It encompasses tools and strategies that help people who cannot rely on spoken speech to communicate — including autistic individuals, people with cerebral palsy, ALS, apraxia, and other complex communication needs.
What is the difference between Proloquo and Proloquo2Go?
Proloquo is the newest symbol-supported AAC app from AssistiveWare featuring a modern design and updated vocabulary. Proloquo2Go is the established, widely-used predecessor still supported and used by many communicators worldwide.
Does AssistiveWare offer a free trial?
AssistiveWare periodically offers discounts and promotional pricing (such as during Autism Acceptance Month). Check their website for current offers, as full free trials are not standard but limited demos may be available.
What platforms are AssistiveWare apps available on?
AssistiveWare's AAC apps are primarily available on Apple iOS and iPadOS devices via the App Store, with supplementary resources and support accessible through their website.
How do I get started learning AAC with AssistiveWare apps?
AssistiveWare provides a 'Learn AAC' section on their website with setup guides, videos, and core word resources. Their blog and resource library offer detailed advice on modeling, core vocabulary, and implementation strategies for various communication profiles.
