Introducing the Together ALS App for Voice Banking
Through a partnership with the Answer ALS Foundation and The Voice Keeper, the Together ALS app allows users to record a variety of phrases and sentences, which the app then uses to create a digital version of their voice. This personalized voice can be utilized with speech-generating devices, enabling individuals with ALS to communicate with their loved ones in a voice that reflects their identity and personality.
Record in a quiet, echoless environment, and please keep the following in mind:
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Make sure that the microphone is as close to your mouth as possible without touching your lips
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Verify that your iPhone/iPad’s microphone is not covered by a protective case
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Avoid touching the microphone during the recording
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If using an iPad, rotate it upside down to position the microphone nearest to your mouth (the mic is located on the upper side)
The Process
The Together ALS app gives those with ALS the ability to preserve their voice directly from their mobile device. Powered by the Voice Keeper technology, the app allows users to record 75-150 sentences which are then used to generate a digital voice for speech generating devices.
When you have recorded 75 sentences, you can request a sample of your voice. But for an improved digital voice, recording 150 will provide a more authentic voice. You will receive instructions on how to install the voice on your speech generating device.
Access
In areas were there are healthcare inequities for the ALS community, many people and families have no way to attend a clinic or access to wifi or in-home computers. Smart phones are often their direct connection. Together ALS is one solution for creating a quality digital voice for use on speech generating devices.
Research
In the next phase of the Together ALS app, users will be able to participate in continuing research through their existing voice samples and by adding additional phtrases over time, survey questions, and participating through home genetic testing.
Options
We recognize and applaud that there are many options for voice preservation. Together ALS is offered as one solution at no cost to those living with ALS. Although the app is iPhone based, the resulting voice can be used on Windows based speech generating devices.
About
The Together ALS app was originally part of the Answer ALS study where voice samples were collected as part of the large scale research project. Once enrollment was completed, we chose to repurpose the expertise built into mobile voice collection in a way that would give back to the ALS community. Although there are many options for voice collection and voice banking, Together ALS provides a solution for some who may not have other options.
Partners
Answer ALS
Answer ALS is building the most comprehensive clinical, genetic, molecular & biochemical assessment of ALS, while openly sharing the results with the global research community.
The Voice Keeper
The Vopice Keeper has helped more than 3000 individuals preserve their voice identities. The voices created can be used on all AAC devices and many AAC apps, providing versatility
Testimonials
"The recording process was EASY and super user-friendly."
"I found the process quite easy and straightforward and not fatiguing on my voice... I like the option of recording in chunks based on a person’s energy and voice quality."
"It works quite well—I can certainly detect that it's my voice, which is impressive, for sure...And Wow! This (new milestone) is much closer!.. it absolutely sounds like me."
Get in touch
Please contact us with any questions or comments you may have.