Nisus has updated its two flagship products Nisus Writer Pro and Nisus Writer Express, and in the process have provided major accessibility improvements to VoiceOver users. Most notable is complete access to pallets. Simply use the VoiceOver commands to interact with them to gain access to their functionality. This is another great example of how putting accessibility tools in the hands of third-party developers, and making those tools easy to use and implement, benefits blind computer users.

www.freeverse.com is having a 30% off sale until september 20. Freeverse.com sells sound studio. Sound studio regularly costs $79.95 and with the 30 percent off sale it will cost $55.97. Just put in the code montyrules at check out. Sound studio is an accessible sound editer for the mac.

Greg Joswiak, one of the heads in marketing for Apple, commented in a recent interview with GearLog that Apple is taking a neutral stance where regards third-party software development for the new iPod Touch. Apple won’t deliberately break third-party software developed for the device, but it won’t guarantee compatibility with all third-party apps that may be created for it in all software updates either. He confirmed that the iPod Touch, like the AppleTV and iPhone, is running Mac OS X. This could potentially mean that third-party access sollutions could be developed to make the iPod Touch’s touch-screen interface accessible to the blind.

The article goes on to refer to the iPhone and iPod Touch as essentially, "Mac Micros", and that in due course Apple will be treating them as such. If this is the case, it seems reasonable to assume that more access features will be forthcoming in these devices. As has been pointed out in a variety of publications, the iPhone has gaping holes that everyone fully expects Apple to fill through software updates and in future generations of the device.

Apple released long awaited updates to its mid- and pro-level audio production tools this morning.

Logic Studio provides a suite of apps designed for professional audio production. At its heart is Logic Pro 8, which boasts a new, single-window interface and countless new features. Also included in the package is Soundtrack 2 and an all new application called Main Stage which allows physical controls to interact with much of the software’s backend, primarily for live performances.

Logic Express, meant for mid-level audio production, has seen a dramatic update as well, including incorperating many of Logic Studio’s new features.

Whether or not either package includes improved accessibility over its previous incarnations is unclear at this time. We should point out, however, that improved accessibility may not manifest itself until the upcoming Leopard release, as that update to the OS is schedule to be released next month.

If you have any information on the accessibility of these products with VoiceOver, please contact us. We will be contacting Apple for comment as well.

Logic Studio and Logic Express retail for $499 and $199 respectively.