The BBC is reporting on a new technology being developed by a team of Japanese researchers which uses focused ultrasonic waves to produce the illusion of solid objects in mid-air to the sense of touch.

While still in its infancy, the researchers believe the technique could be used in video games to provide a more immersive experience. Audio and visual sensory input has been a major part of gaming for years, but the sense of touch has been hard to fully tap into. This technology could provide a way to more fully realized virtual experience.

However, to the blind, this technology could mean more. As the technology matures, it is easy to envision ways in which it may be used to provide tactile cues on touch screen devices like the iPhone or iPod Touch, or provide a less expensive and more easily maintained alternative to current Braille display technologies.

On Monday, APple took the wraps off of the longanticipated iPhone 3G. The phone sports a new design, better performance, 3G speeds, GPS, and a whole lot more. Most unfortunately, it does not seem to include any additional accessibility for blind or visually impaired users. It does, however, sport a cheaper price tag. Perhaps continued massive adoption by the world will convince APple to invest a little time in making this device more accessible.

Today, AT&T Wireless announced a new Text Accessibility Plan (TAP) for the iPhone, intended to give users with hearing and speech disabilities unlimited text messaging, Web browsing and e-mail for $40.00 per month.

"Our Text Accessibility Plan allows customers who are deaf or have hearing or speech disabilities to literally tap out their communications on the go," says vice president of
Product Management, Voice Products and Affiliate Marketing for AT&T’s wireless unit, Carlton Hill. "Now with TAP for iPhone, users can tap, flick and pinch the innovative Multi-Touch touch screen for a completely new world of functionality."

To qualify, customers must complete an application for eligibility. The form is available at this link.

In the 119th episode of the MacWorld Podcast, host Christopher Breen is joined by Josh de Lioncourt to discuss VoiceOver and Apple’s progress in accessibility for the blind and visually impaired. The show also discusses the recent news of Mac clones.

We’d like to thank Mr. Breen and MacWorld.com for taking the time to explore VoiceOver and Apple’s accessibility efforts.