At the age of 18, Jordyn Zimmerman's life took a transformative turn when she started using an iPad equipped with speech-generating applications. Today, she is not only speaking in schools across the country but also actively working with the government to advocate for Americans with disabilities.
Apple's iPad, particularly with its Live Speech feature introduced in iOS 17 in 2023, and earlier applications that could vocalize text, has been a game-changer for Zimmerman. "The iPad gave me so much confidence to really connect with people," Zimmerman shared with CBS Mornings. She utilizes the assistive touch feature to communicate seamlessly, which has significantly enhanced her interactions and relationships, especially with her family. "My brother and I have this amazing, ever-growing relationship, which now started 10 years ago," she expressed.
Her journey with the iPad has not only improved her personal life but has also given her a platform to champion the rights of individuals with disabilities. Zimmerman now visits schools to educate and inspire, and she serves on the Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities under the Biden Administration, making impactful contributions to policy discussions.
Sarah Herrlinger, Apple’s Senior Director of Global Accessibility Policy & Initiatives, remarked on Zimmerman's achievements, saying, "It just makes me happy. Jordyn has one of the best senses of humor... to watch her facial expression as she has that thing that she wants to express, and then she types it out, and just gets that kind of wry smile on her face."
Herrlinger added, "And I love the fact that our technology is really just helping her show the world exactly who she is."
This story not only highlights individual empowerment but also underscores the significant role technology plays in improving lives and fostering inclusivity.