Speech Assistant AAC: Text-to-Speech Communication Aid

Overview

Speech Assistant AAC is a text-to-speech (TTS) application designed specifically as a communication aid for individuals who are speech-impaired but literate. Developed by ASoft / Ton Schalke based in the Netherlands, this app provides a straightforward solution for people who can type or select pre-saved phrases but have difficulty speaking due to conditions like aphasia, stroke, ALS/MND, autism, cerebral palsy, or vocal cord problems.

Unlike some of the more complex therapy or symbol-based AAC apps, Speech Assistant AAC focuses on a single core function: allowing users to type messages or select pre-saved phrases to be spoken aloud clearly and effectively.

For Individuals with Aphasia & Caregivers

Key Features

• Text-to-Speech: Type any text using the keyboard and press the speak button to have it spoken aloud.

• Phrase Buttons: Create categories and save frequently used phrases on buttons for quick access. The paid/iOS version allows unlimited categories.

• History: Quick access to previously spoken/typed phrases for easy reuse.

• Autocomplete/Autosearch: The app suggests saved phrases as the user types, making communication faster.

• Full Screen Display: Shows messages in large font for visibility, with the option to rotate the display for easier reading by communication partners.

• Voice Options: Uses the device’s built-in text-to-speech voices (e.g., Google TTS, iOS voices). Supports importing recorded speech, ElevenLabs AI voice clones, and Apple Personal Voice on iOS. Adjustable rate and pitch.

• Photos/Symbols on Buttons: Option to add images from the photo library or Mulberry Symbol set (in paid/iOS version) to buttons for visual cues.

• Backup/Restore: Backup categories/phrases via iCloud, Mail, Google Drive, or AirDrop.

• Additional Features:

  • Tabs for multiple conversations
  • Bluetooth keyboard support with shortcuts
  • Attention sound to get listener’s attention
  • Share message option
  • Settings to prevent accidental double taps
  • iOS version supports use during phone/FaceTime calls

Usability & Accessibility

The app is designed with simplicity and ease of use in mind:

• Clean, straightforward interface
• Large text display option
• Customizable button sizes
• Option to add images to buttons for visual support
• Adjustable speech rate and pitch
• Support for different voices and languages
• Works offline after initial setup

Cost & Access

• Android: Freemium model (Basic version free, one-time payment for Full version)
• iOS: One-time purchase ($23.99 USD / $32.99 AUD / €26.99 EUR)
• No Subscriptions: Unlike many competitors, this app uses a one-time payment model
• Platforms:
  • iOS (iPhone, iPad requires iOS 11.0/12.0+, Apple Watch requires watchOS 9.0+, Mac with Apple Silicon requires macOS 11.0+)
  • Android (smartphones, tablets, requires Android 8.0/8.1+)
• Offline Use: Works offline after initial setup

User Experiences

User reviews frequently mention:

• Simplicity and ease of use
• Effectiveness for basic communication needs
• Value for money compared to more expensive AAC options
• Appreciation for the offline functionality
• Usefulness of customizable phrase buttons

Some criticisms relate to occasional bugs or specific feature requests, but overall reception is positive for its intended purpose.

For Speech-Language Pathologists

Therapeutic Approach

Unlike apps like Tactus Therapy or Constant Therapy, Speech Assistant AAC is not designed as a therapy tool but rather as a functional communication aid. Its approach is based on:

• Direct Text-to-Speech: Providing immediate voice output for typed messages
• Phrase Banking: Allowing users to save and categorize frequently used phrases
• Customization: Enabling personalization of content and organization
• Accessibility: Focusing on a clean, straightforward interface for users with cognitive challenges

Evidence Base

The app does not claim specific research validation but is based on established AAC principles for literate users. Its effectiveness is primarily supported by user testimonials and clinical experience rather than formal studies.

Speech Assistant AAC is frequently mentioned in lists of recommended aphasia apps by organizations like the Stroke Association and in SLP resources, suggesting clinical acceptance of its utility.

Clinical Features

For SLPs working with clients, valuable features include:

• The ability to pre-program personalized phrases and categories
• Options to add photos or symbols to buttons
• Backup/sharing capabilities for transferring setups between devices
• Affordability compared to dedicated AAC devices
• Cross-platform availability

Professional Reception

SLPs often recommend Speech Assistant AAC as:

• A cost-effective AAC solution for literate clients
• A straightforward option for those who find symbol-based systems overwhelming
• A good starting point for introducing AAC
• A practical tool for temporary use during recovery

Detailed Feature Analysis

Content Library

Unlike content-rich therapy apps, Speech Assistant AAC does not come with pre-loaded exercises or activities. Its content is entirely user-generated through:

• Custom phrases saved to buttons
• Categories created and organized by the user
• History of previously used phrases
• Optional images added to buttons

The app does include the Mulberry Symbol set in the paid/iOS version for adding visual supports to buttons.

Customization Options

Users and SLPs can customize:

• Categories and phrases
• Button appearance (with or without images)
• Voice selection, rate, and pitch
• Display settings
• Button layout and organization
• Keyboard settings and word prediction

Support & Resources

• Website with user manual and FAQs
• Email support
• Regular updates addressing bugs and adding features
• User manual available as PDF

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

• Simplicity and ease of use
• Affordability compared to dedicated AAC devices or more complex apps
• Works offline
• One-time purchase (no subscription)
• Cross-platform availability
• Regular updates and maintenance
• Customizable to individual needs
• Support for multiple languages and voices

Limitations

• Limited to users with literacy skills
• Not designed for therapy or skill development
• Fewer features than comprehensive AAC systems
• Less visual support than symbol-based systems
• No built-in progress tracking or analytics
• Limited research validation

Conclusion

Speech Assistant AAC offers a straightforward, affordable text-to-speech solution for literate individuals with aphasia or other communication challenges. Its focus on simplicity and core functionality makes it accessible to users who might find more complex AAC systems overwhelming.

The app is particularly well-suited for:

• Individuals with aphasia who have retained reading and writing skills
• Users looking for a simple, no-frills communication aid
• Those who prefer typing over symbol selection
• People seeking an affordable alternative to expensive dedicated devices
• Users who need offline functionality
• Those who prefer a one-time purchase over subscription models

While it lacks the therapeutic exercises and extensive features of apps like Tactus Therapy or Constant Therapy, Speech Assistant AAC excels at its primary purpose: giving a voice to those who can type but cannot speak. For many users with aphasia, this focused functionality may be exactly what they need for everyday communication support.