Choosing a communication device isn’t just about what’s on the screen. The physical design of a device — how it’s held, carried, heard, and used throughout the day — plays a huge role in how well it supports communication in real life.
While apps and vocabulary matter, hardware features can affect access, independence, and reliability just as much. This blog looks at key hardware feature matching — considerations to think about when choosing or trialling an AAC device.
Accessories can significantly influence how comfortably and consistently a device is used. Many dedicated AAC devices – including the NovaRugged™, Via®, and Accent ranges – offer optional accessories designed to support access, positioning, and transport.
Built‑in kickstands, for example, help keep devices stable and positioned for optimal visibility on desks, tables, or shared surfaces, supporting access for both AAC communicators and their communication partners.
Carry straps can also play an important role, making it easier to move a device safely between environments and supporting access throughout the day rather than only at set times.
Keyguards and touch guides are another important consideration. These accessories can support more accurate selections, reduce fatigue, and provide tactile and visual boundaries between buttons. When carefully matched to both the device and the vocabulary system, they can improve consistency and confidence during communication.
For some AAC communicators, alternative access methods are essential. Options such as eye gaze, head tracking, switch access, or joystick control should be explored as part of feature matching to ensure the system supports the person’s physical access needs now and into the future.
AAC devices are often used across busy, unpredictable environments — at home, in classrooms, outdoors, and in the community. This makes durability a key feature to consider.
Drop resistance is one aspect of durability, with many dedicated devices tested to withstand everyday knocks and falls. Another is the Ingress Protection (IP) rating, which provides information about how well a device resists dust and moisture. Hardware built for real‑world use can reduce interruptions, repairs, and stress for AAC communicators and their families.
Clear amplification supports being heard the first time — whether in classrooms, community spaces, or busy households. Dedicated AAC devices are designed with speakers capable of projecting clear, loud speech output, supporting participation and reducing communication breakdowns.
Battery life is equally important. Devices that last a full day on a single charge support independence and ensure communication remains available throughout the day, without the need for frequent recharging or backup plans.
Thoughtful feature matching considers how all elements of the system — software, hardware, accessories, and access methods — work together to support meaningful communication.
If you’d like help exploring these considerations, you can join our next Considerations for Feature Matching webinar, coming up on May 12th 2026. In a 60-minute online session, our AAC-experienced Liberator Australia Consultants will guide you through matching hardware, software, and other considerations for the communicator’s needs, before you submit a device trial request.Â
You can also book in for a free consult with your local Liberator consultant. Our experienced team work across every state, and are available to talk through feature matching, trial options, and practical considerations tailored to real‑life use.
Our team is here to help you make the most of your communication device. Whether you need help with hardware feature matching, discovering new apps or exploring new ways to optimise your AAC setup, we’re just a call or click away.
Contact us:
Your AAC device is an important part of everyday life, supporting conversations, learning, and connection with others. And, just like any piece of technology you rely on, it performs best when it’s well looked after! In this blog, we’ll share our top AAC device maintenance tips – including practical care, maintenance, and tech advice to help ensure your device stays reliable, responsive, and ready when you need it!
Let’s face it – devices get dirty. Whether you’re at school, work, or just having dinner, your device comes along for the ride. Give it some cleaning attention regularly to keep it working well.
For light cleaning, use a soft, lint-free cloth on the touchscreen. For deeper cleaning, use a slightly damp, lint-free cloth, then dry the screen with another soft cloth. You can find more detailed cleaning tips in your device manual.
Good to know: Keyguards can go in the dishwasher!
Your device comes with a specific charger – always use that one. Try to charge your battery before it drops to 0%. Charging when your battery is above 10% can extend its life significantly. For best results, charge your device upright at room temperature on a hard surface.
Tip: Turn off your device for faster charging.
We encourage keeping your device with you and ready to use for conversations throughout the day. However, there are smart times to use sleep mode or shut down completely.
Set your auto-sleep to five minutes or less. Use sleep mode when you won’t be using your device for short periods, like during swimming.
Remember that sleep mode uses about 2% of battery per hour. Consider turning off your device completely during longer breaks, like overnight.
Like most technology, your device works best when it’s not too hot. Take breaks from heat and avoid charging if your device feels warm. Move to shade or air conditioning rather than trying to cool it with water.
Tip: Keep a low-tech communication board handy for water activities.
Software updates bring new features and vocabulary to improve your communication experience. Connect to WiFi and follow the prompts in your settings menu to get these improvements. Updates also help your device run more smoothly overall.
Tip: Plug in your device during updates to protect your battery.
Your screen is essential for accessing all your communication options. Protect it from scratches, moisture, and spills with a screen protector. This also reduces glare and reflections, making it easier to see your buttons.
Visit our online store to see screen protector options for your device.
Your device is built to be durable and handle daily life. (If you haven’t already), you might try an extra protective case designed specifically for your device model. These cases provide additional security for active use at home and out in the community.
People change, and your needs change too. It might be time to check that you’re still accessing your device in the most comfortable and efficient way possible.
Connect with your support team (or ours!) to consider adjustments like:
Our local consultants are happy to discuss access questions to help you communicate at your best.
If you’re experiencing glitches, try restarting your device first – this solves most technical problems.
If you’re still having trouble after a restart, our support team is here to help. Contact us by phone, email, or through our website, and we’ll work together to get your AAC device maintenance issue resolved – and your device running smoothly again.
Need a little support with your AAC device maintenance?
Our team is here to help you make the most of your communication device. Whether you need help with AAC device maintenance or want to explore new ways to optimise your AAC setup, we’re just a call or click away.
Contact us:
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