Augmentative, Alternative, and Assistive: Reimagining the History of Mobile Computing and Disability

This article explores the linked histories and sociocultural implications of the Texas Instruments Vocaid and the Apple iPad, two technologies produced by consumer electronics companies and used as assistive devices by nonspeaking individuals. Through this brief case study, the author argues that developments in mobile computing and advancements in electronic communication aids are inherently intertwined through the history of their research, development, commercialization, use, and reuse. Although disability is often underrepresented in the history of computing, it has played, and continues to play, a significant role in how computers augment and provide alternatives to human communication and expression.