Communication devices are a very important tool for someone with significant communication difficulties. Most people buy the same communication app for all of their students with communication disorders. A communication device is something a person with a communication disorder has to carry everywhere. The same individual does not have the power to request the app or device that best suits their needs. It is important to know that there are choices. That does not mean we have to pick a different app for each student. Peace of mind is about knowing you have options when making difficult life-altering choices. Please be aware that some apps have specific qualities that might be right for students with specific needs. 

AAC App or Augmentative and Alternative Communication Apps

These are apps that transform a tablet, computer, or smartphone into a communication device.

High-End Augmentative and Alternative Communication Apps

These are the higher priced major augmentative and alternative communication apps that are most commonly used.

Lower-End Augmentative and Alternative Communication Apps

There are a number of free or inexpensive augmentative and alternative communication apps. Typically, these apps are used to test if an augmentative and alternative communication app would work with a student before making the investment. 

Augmentative and Alternative Communication or AAC Text-Based Communication Apps

These are communication apps that allow a student to type what they want to say, and then the device engages in verbal communication. Think of this as augmentative and alternative communication apps without pictures or symbols. There are several high-end apps in this category. 

Dynavox

This is the name of a company. Dynavox is known for being good at mounting communication devices for people with physical disabilities and for being able to use software where you can control the device with your eyes. 

Foreign Language Augmentative and Alternative Communication Apps

These are augmentative and alternative communication apps for people that communicate in languages other than English. There are several made by major AAC brands.