New Fix tool and ElevenLabs voice integration
We want Grid to empower individuals to communicate and connect in ways that feel uniquely their own. By integrating new AI features into our software, we are working to make conversations faster and more seamless, helping users express themselves in a way that truly reflects who they are. We believe AI should empower, not replace, human expression. Our new AI features are designed to improve the experience for AAC users while respecting individuality and control over how you communicate. Research conducted by Smartbox, in partnership with the ALS Association, has highlighted that a major challenge for people using text AAC is correcting typing errors. Our research found that fixing mistakes took up as much as a third of the time people spent composing their message, significantly slowing down communication. This leads to frustration, pressure, and less authentic conversations, with users often choosing words that are easier to type rather than what they would prefer to say, or spending time deleting and retyping words. This challenge is particularly impactful for people using alternative access methods such as eye gaze or switch, as they experience additional cognitive load when communicating. One of the simplest and most effective ways we identified AI could help is by reducing these errors, allowing users to communicate faster – saying what they want, with confidence. For AAC users, slow or frustrating communication can create barriers to full participation. That’s why improving both the speed and quality of communication is crucial. The new AI-powered Fix tool in Grid helps users correct spelling and grammar errors, expand abbreviations, and fill in missing letters or spaces -reducing the effort needed to type accurately. Our AI-powered feature is available in our Fast Talker and Text Talker grid sets and can reduce the cognitive load of constant corrections for text AAC users. This allows users to focus on expressing themselves more authentically, leading to smoother conversations, and more meaningful participation. Our user testing showed that reducing errors enhances both speed and confidence. These AI features remain optional, giving users full control over how they communicate. AI-generated voices allow users to express themselves in a way that feels more natural and personal. By integrating a wide range of voice services, we provide options for users to create a voice that best reflects their identity. This ensures that AAC is not just functional, but a true representation of the individual using it. Melanie (USA) Julia (UK) Phil (UK) Our new integration with ElevenLabs provides even more choice for users to select a high-quality, authentic voice, with powerful AI. ElevenLabs voices are available for free for all Grid users over the age of 18. At Smartbox, we believe AI should empower, not replace, human expression. Our products and services are designed to improve the experience for AAC users while respecting individuality and control over how you communicate. Our AI Principles guide how we use AI to improve our products, systems, and services, to create a positive impact for AAC users and our teams, ensuring we implement AI responsibly. All AI features are opt-in, never a requirement. We provide clear information on how AI works in Grid and continuously review for transparency. Our approach is focused on how AI can enhance communication without taking away human agency. We leverage AI to support users, making conversations more efficient, personal, and expressive. More natural conversations lead to deeper connections, increased participation, greater opportunities for learning, and more meaningful relationships. By prioritising responsible AI use, we ensure technology remains a tool for empowerment, allowing users to participate equitably and express themselves fully – without compromise. Learn all about our brand-new AI features and the clinical impact they can have on AAC users. Join our live webinar on 25 June.
Why AI in AAC?
Enhancing efficiency
Personalised communication
A responsible approach to AI
Empowering AAC Users
Join the AI features webinar
