M
About
Tecla (tecla-e) is a purpose-built assistive technology solution designed for people living with conditions such as spinal cord injury, ALS, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, stroke, or traumatic brain injury. The device acts as a universal switch-access hub, allowing users to pair virtually any adaptive switch to their iOS or Android devices, computers, and smart home ecosystems via Bluetooth. Once connected, users can navigate their devices, send messages, browse the web, call an Uber, control infrared home appliances, and even access AI voice assistants like Siri—all without using their hands. The companion Tecla App extends functionality with advanced customization, home automation support, and IR remote control of multiple appliances from a single interface. Tecla supports control of up to 8 paired devices and delivers up to 2 days of battery life per charge. A 28-day return policy, technical support via multiple channels, and financing options (including a loan program) lower barriers to access. User stories highlight real-world outcomes: independently watching TV, managing smart home lights, hailing rideshares, and transitioning seamlessly between devices throughout the day. Tecla is ideal for individuals, caregivers, occupational therapists, and rehabilitation centers seeking to restore digital autonomy for users with severe physical limitations.
Key Features
- Universal Switch Compatibility: Works with virtually any adaptive switch type—sip-and-puff, light touch buttons, joystick, blink switch, or powered wheelchair controls—so users can choose whatever motion they are capable of.
- Multi-Device Control: Pair and control up to 8 Bluetooth devices including iPhones, iPads, Android devices, and computers from a single Tecla-e hub.
- Smart Home & IR Appliance Integration: The Tecla App enables home automation and infrared (IR) remote control of multiple appliances such as TVs, lights, and thermostats from one accessible interface.
- Hands-Free AI & Voice Assistant Access: Enables fully independent, hands-free access to Siri and other voice assistants on iOS, empowering users to perform tasks by voice without any physical button press.
- Long Battery Life & Easy Setup: Up to 2 days of battery life per charge, with a straightforward setup process and a companion online course to help users get started quickly.
Use Cases
- A quadriplegic individual uses Tecla with a sip-and-puff switch to independently browse the internet, send texts, and call an Uber from their smartphone without caregiver assistance.
- A person with ALS integrates Tecla with their powered wheelchair controls to seamlessly control their tablet, TV, and smart home lights from a single switch interface.
- An occupational therapist prescribes Tecla for a stroke rehabilitation patient to rebuild digital independence and practice fine motor–free device interaction during recovery.
- A person with cerebral palsy uses the Tecla App's IR remote feature to control their TV, air conditioner, and lights from one accessible scanning menu on their iPad.
- A rehabilitation center evaluates Tecla for multiple clients using the loan program, identifying which adaptive switch and configuration best matches each user's mobility before purchase.
Pros
- Restores Digital Independence: Enables people with severe physical disabilities to independently communicate, manage smart home devices, access rideshares, and use AI assistants without caregiver assistance.
- Highly Versatile Switch Support: Compatible with a wide range of adaptive switches and wheelchair controls, making it accessible to users with many different types and levels of mobility.
- Risk-Free Trial: A 28-day return policy—even after use—combined with a loan program and easy payment plans reduces the financial risk of trying the device.
- Broad Device Ecosystem: Controls iOS, Android, macOS, Windows, and smart home IR devices, making it a true all-in-one access solution rather than a single-platform tool.
Cons
- High Upfront Cost: Starter kits range from $624–$689+ USD, which may be a significant barrier despite available financing and loan programs.
- Requires Compatible Adaptive Switch: Users must separately select and obtain an appropriate adaptive switch; the device alone is not sufficient without the right switch for the individual's range of motion.
- Learning Curve for Switch Scanning: Switch-based scanning navigation differs significantly from touch-based interfaces and may require time and occupational therapy support to master effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
What physical conditions is Tecla designed for?
Tecla is designed for individuals with limited upper-body mobility, including those living with spinal cord injury (quadriplegia/tetraplegia), ALS, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, stroke, or traumatic brain injury.
What types of adaptive switches work with Tecla?
Tecla is compatible with a wide variety of switches including sip-and-puff switches, light touch buttons, joysticks, blink switches, head switches, and powered wheelchair controls. The best switch depends on the user's available range of motion.
Can I use Siri completely hands-free with Tecla?
Yes. Tecla enables totally hands-free access to Siri on iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch using a single switch. iOS Switch Control users can invoke Siri from the Switch Control menu, while others can press and hold their selection switch to activate Siri.
How many devices can Tecla control at once?
Tecla-e can be paired with and control up to 8 Bluetooth devices, including smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart home hubs, allowing seamless transitions between devices throughout the day.
Is there a way to try Tecla before committing to the full price?
Yes. Tecla offers a 28-day return policy even after use, a Tecla Loan Program that lets prospective users try the device, and an Easy Payment Plan to spread out the cost. A free 20-second online assessment is also available to help determine suitability.
