DynaVox® Mayer-Johnson Announces the DynaWrite™ 2.0 Device

PITTSBURGH, June 16, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- DynaVox Mayer-Johnson, the leading provider of speech generating devices and symbol-adapted special education software used to assist individuals in overcoming speech, language and learning challenges, today announced the release of the DynaWrite 2.0 speech-generating device. Setting a new standard for keyboard-based augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) solutions, the DynaWrite 2.0 allows those with good literacy skills and typing abilities to simply type and talk.

The second generation of the company's popular DynaWrite communication device, the DynaWrite 2.0 combines the reliability and flexibility of the original device with several new features that enhance performance and communication, and allow users to:

Communicate quickly and reliably.

The familiar, full-size QWERTY keyboard makes it easy to compose and speak messages quickly.  Word prediction and abbreviation expansion capabilities allow augmented communicators to keep up with the conversation by reducing the time needed to compose messages.  Word prediction reduces the number of keystrokes required to compose a message by predicting the words or phrases most likely to come next based upon the user's own language patterns and usage.  Abbreviation expansion further reduces the time needed to compose messages by allowing the user to recall frequently used phrases and information by typing a short abbreviation or keyboard shortcut for the desired content.  High-quality, pleasant Acapela™ voices are easily understood by listeners ensuring that messages are received as intended.

Share their personality.

DynaVox's Voice Retention Technology (VRT™) makes it easy for individuals with progressive conditions such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig's Disease) and Parkinson's Disease to share even the smallest nuances of their personalities with family and friends.  First introduced on the DynaWrite in 2002, VRT allows individuals to record up to an hour of favorite phrases, stories, greetings, etc. with their natural voice for use on the DynaWrite 2.0 at a later time.  

Communicate today and tomorrow, in the manner that best meets their unique needs.

The DynaWrite 2.0 makes it easy for individuals with progressive or degenerative diagnoses to communicate simply as their abilities change.  Onscreen scanning is available for those who are unable to type traditionally.  Simplifying the scanning process by eliminating the need for a scanning overlay, onscreen scanning allows the user to compose messages quickly by focusing their attention on the screen.  The new Zoom feature allows scanners to target any area of the screen and enlarge it for greater visibility.  All users will appreciate the crisp, clear screen that provides greater detail and contrast than screens on other keyboard-based devices.

Take Control.

Wirelessly connect to a PC with DynaVox's BeTheKey™ technology and the DynaVox AccessIT IR to use Windows®-compatible computer applications. Integrated infrared capabilities allow users to control common household appliances such as televisions, DVD players, thermostats and lamps equipped with infrared remote controls or X-10 controllers.  

"Whether helping students achieve in the classroom or allowing adults who are new to disability to remain in or re-enter the workforce, the DynaWrite 2.0 allows individuals who rely upon AAC to thrive socially, academically and vocationally,"  said DynaVox President and COO Michelle Heying.

"I used the original DynaWrite as my primary means of communication for several years and was very happy with it," said Tasha Shoffner. "But the DynaWrite 2.0 takes keyboard-based communication to a new level! It takes everything that I loved about the original DynaWrite and builds upon it to deliver a device that truly meets my needs!"

All DynaVox speech generating devices are available in a dedicated configuration which is designed to run communication software only, meeting the "Speech Generating Device" requirements established by Medicare, Medicaid and other third party insurers.

DynaWrite™, BeTheKey™ and AccessIT™ IR are registered trademarks of DynaVox Systems LLC.

Acapela™ is a registered trademark of the Acapela Group.

Windows® is a registered trademark of The Microsoft Corporation.

About DynaVox Inc.

DynaVox Inc. (NASDAQ: DVOX) is a publicly traded holding company with its headquarters in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, whose primary operating entities are DynaVox Systems LLC and Mayer-Johnson LLC.  DynaVox is the leading provider of speech generating devices and symbol-adapted special education software used to assist individuals in overcoming their speech, language and learning challenges. These solutions are designed to help individuals who have complex communication and learning needs participate in the home, classroom and community.  Our mission is to enable our customers to realize their full communication and education potential by developing industry-leading devices, software and content and by providing the services to support them. We assist individuals, families, and professionals with an extensive field support organization, as well as centralized technical and reimbursement support. For more information, visit www.dynavoxtech.com.

SOURCE DynaVox Inc.