[
    {
        "role": "user",
        "content": "what%20is%20the%20history%20of%20the%20blindshell%20phone%3F%20what%20year%20did%20it%20come%20out%2C%20where%20is%20it%20housed%3F%20are%20their%20distributers%20or%20do%20you%20just%20order%20from%20somewhere%3F"
    },
    {
        "role": "assistant",
        "content": "Here\u2019s a detailed history of the BlindShell phone\u2014when it began, where it\u2019s based, and how you can purchase one.\n\n---\n\n**Origins (2013\u20132014)**  \n- BlindShell began as a university master\u2019s thesis by Petr Svobodn\u00edk at Czech Technical University, under advisor Daniel Nov\u00e1k. The original goal was to make touchscreen phones usable by blind and visually impaired people. ([blindshell.com](https://www.blindshell.com/us/about-us?utm_source=openai))  \n- In 2014, the project won the Vodafone \u201cIdea of the Year\u201d competition and received support from the Vodafone Foundation, which helped officially launch it. ([blindshell.com](https://www.blindshell.com/us/about-us?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\n**Development & Key Milestones**  \n- The first products were actually **software apps** installed on regular Android (Samsung) phones, designed to help visually impaired users interact with touchscreens. But this approach had drawbacks\u2014each new phone release meant redoing the interface. ([blindshell.de](https://www.blindshell.de/blog/blindshell-feiert-10-jahre?utm_source=openai))  \n- By 2018, BlindShell released its first full phone, the **BlindShell Classic**\u2014a physical keypad phone designed specifically for getting around the limitations of touchscreens for unseeing users. ([blindshell.de](https://www.blindshell.de/blog/blindshell-feiert-10-jahre?utm_source=openai))  \n- Since then, the product line has evolved (e.g. Classic 2, and as of 2024, Classic 3) with features like voice control, loudspeaker, AI assistant (Luna), scene/photo recognition (Observo), and remote support via an app called Tandem. ([blindshell.com](https://www.blindshell.com/us/about-us?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\n**Company Location & Structure**  \n- BlindShell is a Czech company (legal name Matapo a.s.), founded in **2014**, with its headquarters in **Prague, Czechia**. ([thecompanycheck.com](https://www.thecompanycheck.com/company/b/blindshell/92fb4b197c694104a?utm_source=openai))  \n- The team designing and developing the phones is based in Prague. Customer support is globally available, and there's U.S.-based support as well. ([blindshell.com](https://www.blindshell.com/us/about-us?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\n**Distributors & Buying Options**  \n- Yes, there *are* official distributors, and in addition, you can also order directly from BlindShell\u2019s official online store. ([blindshell.com](https://www.blindshell.com/us/about-us?utm_source=openai))  \n- In the U.S., they formed **BlindShell USA** in 2022 (based in Florida originally; offices for sales/support are also in Maryland), which handles exclusive import, marketing, distribution, and customer support for BlindShell phones in North America. ([blindbargains.com](https://www.blindbargains.com/b/22175?utm_source=openai))  \n- Globally, BlindShell phones are available in dozens of countries. The official site lists availability in 23 countries as of 2024 for their models. ([blindshell.com](https://www.blindshell.com/us/about-us?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\nIf you want, I can pull up the **current models available**, their prices, and what features differentiate them, so you can pick based on what you'd need most."
    },
    {
        "role": "user",
        "content": "yes%20give%20me%20the%20models%20and%20emprovements%2C%20how%20are%20the%20costs%20laid%20out%20once%20you%20have%20a%20phone%20how%20is%20it%20paid%20for%20using%20minutes"
    },
    {
        "role": "assistant",
        "content": "Here\u2019s what I found about the current BlindShell models, what\u2019s new, and how payment for phone service (\u201cminutes\u201d) works.\n\n---\n\n## \ud83d\udcf1 Current Models & Costs\n\n| Model | Price in USD / EUR | Key Hardware Specs | New Features Compared to Classic 2 |\n|:--|:--|:--|:--|\n| **BlindShell Classic 2** | ~$579 USD via Teltex in the U.S. ([teltex.com](https://teltex.com/blindshell/?utm_source=openai)); ~\u20ac529 in Europe ([igi-group.com](https://igi-group.com/eshop/en/brand/299-blindshell?utm_source=openai)) | 2 GB RAM, 16 GB storage, USB-C port, dual-SIM slots, 13 MP camera, 3,000 mAh battery, loudspeaker, tactile keypad ([fcc.report](https://fcc.report/FCC-ID/2ATXD-BS-02/5446093.pdf?utm_source=openai)) | Baseline model with voice control, app catalog, internet browser, NFC tagging, FM radio, improved speaker ([carroll.org](https://carroll.org/product/27153/?utm_source=openai)) |\n| **BlindShell Classic 3** | ~$690 USD via Teltex ([teltex.com](https://teltex.com/blindshell/?utm_source=openai)); \u20ac649 in Europe ([igi-group.com](https://igi-group.com/eshop/en/brand/299-blindshell?utm_source=openai)); \u201cEssentials Pack\u201d with extras runs ~$743 USD ([blindshell.com](https://www.blindshell.com/us/eshop/new-blindshell-classic-3-essentials-pack?utm_source=openai)) | 3 GB RAM, 32 GB storage (plus microSD support up to 128 GB), similar hardware to Classic 2 with refinements in build, grip, etc. ([floridareading.com](https://floridareading.com/products/blindshell-classic-3?utm_source=openai)) | Adds: **Luna**, a voice-assistant; **Tandem**, remote assistance app; ability to install *third-party Android apps*; enhanced image-description feature (\u201cObservo\u201d). Also improved memory/storage. ([blindshell.com](https://www.blindshell.com/us/eshop/blindshell-classic-3-us?gad_campaignid=14725237330&gad_source=1&utm_source=openai)) |\n\nThere\u2019s also a **Classic Lite** version for people who want basic phone functions without internet or voice-assistant features. It\u2019s simpler, offline-oriented. ([blindshell.de](https://www.blindshell.de/hilfe?utm_source=openai))\n\n---\n\n## \ud83d\udd27 Upgrades & Improvements in Classic 3 vs Classic 2\n\n- **Memory & Storage**: Classic 3 comes with 3 GB RAM / 32 GB storage, up from 2 GB / 16 GB in Classic 2. ([teltex.com](https://teltex.com/content/sellsheets/BlindShell-Classic-2-3-Comparison.pdf?utm_source=openai))  \n- **Software Enhancements**: New features like *Luna*, *Tandem*, and support for third-party apps are unique to Classic 3. Classic 2 lacks those. ([blindshell.com](https://www.blindshell.com/us/eshop/blindshell-classic-3-us?gad_campaignid=14725237330&gad_source=1&utm_source=openai))  \n- **Design Tweaks**: Classic 3 has refined surface texture, improved grip, similar hardware layout but with user comfort in mind. ([teltex.com](https://teltex.com/content/sellsheets/BlindShell-Classic-2-3-Comparison.pdf?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\n## \u2705 How Service / \u201cMinutes\u201d Works\n\nHere\u2019s how you get phone service once you have a BlindShell device:\n\n- BlindShell phones are sold **unlocked**, and **do not include a built-in service plan**. You must supply your own SIM card and plan from a mobile carrier. ([blindshell.de](https://www.blindshell.de/hilfe?utm_source=openai))  \n- In the U.S., BlindShell Classic 2 & 3 work with many carriers, both **prepaid** and **post-paid**, that support GSM / LTE bands. Some common compatible providers include **T-Mobile**, **AT&T**, and several MVNOs. ([blindshell.com](https://www.blindshell.com/us/us-mobile-carriers?utm_source=openai))  \n- If you already have a SIM & plan (minutes/data/texts), you can typically use that in a BlindShell phone just like any other unlocked phone. The phone supports inserting your existing SIM. ([blindshell.com](https://www.blindshell.com/us/us-mobile-carriers?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\n## \ud83d\udca1 Choices & Costs to Consider\n\nHere are things that affect how much service will cost overall:\n\n- The **monthly plan** from your carrier: prepaid or regular postpaid. Price depends on how many minutes, texts, and how much data you need.\n- If you only need calls & texts, you might pick a basic prepaid plan to keep costs low.\n- If using data (for apps, voice assistant, internet etc.), you\u2019ll need a plan that includes mobile data.\n- There\u2019s no requirement to pay BlindShell beyond the purchase price of the phone (no subscription to BlindShell itself for basics), but software features like Luna that work online or remote-help may depend on data.\n\n---\n\nIf you want, I can map out **some real example plans** (cheap text/voice-only, voice/data combos) that work well with BlindShell in your area, so you can compare total monthly cost vs phone cost."
    },
    {
        "role": "user",
        "content": "give%20me%20details%20about%20these%20apps%20used%20with%20blindshell%203%2C%20BlindShell%20Classic-a%20physical%20keypad%20phone%20designed%20specifically%20for%20getting%20around%20the%20limitations%20of%20touchscreens%20Classic%202%2C%20and%20as%20of%202024%2C%20Classic%203)%20%20Software%20Enhancements%3A%20New%20features%20like%20Luna%2C%20Tandem%2C%20and%20support%20for%20third-party%20apps%20are%20unique%20to%20Classic%203.%20Classic%202%20lacks%20those.%20(%20that%20support%20GSM%20%2F%20LTE%20bands."
    },
    {
        "role": "assistant",
        "content": "Below is a comparison of the BlindShell Classic 2 vs Classic 3, detailing the apps and software features\u2014especially those like Luna, Tandem, third-party apps, and where they differ.\n\n---\n\n## Key Software Features Only in Classic 3\n\n| Feature | What It Is / Does | Internet Required? | Works in Classic 2? |\n|---------|---------------------|---------------------|----------------------|\n| **Luna (AI Voice Assistant)** | A built-in assistant you summon (typically via a long-press) to open apps, call contacts, send messages, set alarms/notes, answer general knowledge questions, etc. ([blindshell.com](https://www.blindshell.com/us/tipstricks-for-blindshell-classic-3?utm_source=openai)) | Yes, for features like web search or any \u201cask me a fact\u201d\u2010type functions ([blindshell.com](https://www.blindshell.com/us/tipstricks-for-blindshell-classic-3?utm_source=openai)) | **No** \u2014 Classic 2 has voice-dictation and some offline voice control, but lacks Luna. ([hilfsgemeinschaft.at](https://www.hilfsgemeinschaft.at/aktuelles/blog/detail/blindshell-classic-2-im-test?utm_source=openai)) |\n| **Tandem App** | Enables communication by chat, audio call, video call, and remote assistance/control. You can use Tandem with both other BlindShell users and standard Android/iOS phones. ([eblindtech.com](https://eblindtech.com/product/blindshell-classic-3/?utm_source=openai)) | Yes (needs internet and/or data/Wi-Fi) ([eblindtech.com](https://eblindtech.com/product/blindshell-classic-3/?utm_source=openai)) | **No**, this is new to Classic 3. Classic 2 doesn\u2019t include it. ([blindshell.com](https://www.blindshell.com/us/support?utm_source=openai)) |\n| **Third-Party Apps** | Classic 3 offers access to apps developed outside BlindShell (via a third-party app catalog). These include popular apps & Android-style apps. The touchscreen is enabled when using these (with screen reader on), and gestures/pinches/swipes are supported in third-party apps. ([blindshell.com](https://www.blindshell.com/us/tipstricks-for-blindshell-classic-3?utm_source=openai)) | Needed only for many third-party-app features (unless just using offline built-in apps) | Classic 2 has a *catalog* of BlindShell-made apps and some popular ones (e.g. WhatsApp), **but does not support the full third-party app catalog** or full touchscreen gestures in external apps. ([blindshell.cz](https://www.blindshell.cz/katalog-aplikaci-blindshell-classic-3?utm_source=openai)) |\n\n---\n\n## Apps & Interface in Both Classic 2 & Classic 3 (Shared / Overlapping)\n\n- Core built-in features:\n  \u2022 Calls, SMS/MMS, contacts, speed dial, calendar, alarm, timer, notes. ([eblindtech.com](https://eblindtech.com/product/blindshell-classic-3/?utm_source=openai))  \n  \u2022 FM radio / Internet radio ([eblindtech.com](https://eblindtech.com/product/blindshell-classic-3/?utm_source=openai))  \n  \u2022 Loud speaker and clear tactile buttons. ([eblindtech.com](https://eblindtech.com/product/blindshell-classic-3/?utm_source=openai))  \n  \u2022 NFC reader / tagging, light sensor, color recognition, audio recorder, magnifier (in Classic 3 especially) ([blindshell.de](https://www.blindshell.de/eshop/blindshell-classic-3%3Fsrsltid%3DAfmBOooP9F6-XgT-KO5gk8PbucLznetvEGjVk9yLuyxubx2E20fuGckp?utm_source=openai))  \n- Offline voice control / dictation and some local prompts are supported in Classic 2. ([hilfsgemeinschaft.at](https://www.hilfsgemeinschaft.at/aktuelles/blog/detail/blindshell-classic-2-im-test?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\n## Software Limitations in Classic 2\n\n- Doesn\u2019t include Tandem or Luna. So no built-in video calls, remote assistance, or general AI voice assistant. ([blindshell.com](https://www.blindshell.com/us/support?utm_source=openai))  \n- Touchscreen gestures & full touchscreen control are limited or absent, particularly for non-BlindShell apps. The interface is mostly driven by physical keys. ([blindshell.com](https://www.blindshell.com/us/tipstricks-for-blindshell-classic-3?utm_source=openai))  \n- While Classic 2 has WhatsApp and some popular apps, its app catalog is more limited to what BlindShell verifies and adapts. ([hilfsgemeinschaft.at](https://www.hilfsgemeinschaft.at/aktuelles/blog/detail/blindshell-classic-2-im-test?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\n## Additional Noteworthy Features in Classic 3\n\n- **Observo** \u2014 Recognizes objects, colors, money, texts via photo; translation of text; environment-aware. ([blindshell.de](https://www.blindshell.de/eshop/blindshell-classic-3%3Fsrsltid%3DAfmBOooP9F6-XgT-KO5gk8PbucLznetvEGjVk9yLuyxubx2E20fuGckp?utm_source=openai))  \n- **Backup & Data Migration** \u2014 There are built-in ways to transfer contacts from Classic 2 \u2192 Classic 3 via WiFi Direct; selective backup of apps/data using SD card. ([blindshell.com](https://www.blindshell.com/us/tipstricks-for-blindshell-classic-3?utm_source=openai))  \n- **Touchscreen Mode** \u2014 Only \u201con\u201d in third-party apps, or in apps that support touch; in basic menu and in native BlindShell apps users may rely on physical keypad primarily. ([eblindtech.com](https://eblindtech.com/product/blindshell-classic-3/?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\nIf you like, I can also get you a list of specific third-party apps people say work well on Classic 3 (user-tested) vs ones that have usability issues."
    },
    {
        "role": "user",
        "content": "yes%20what%20are%20the%20third%20party%20apps%20that%20work%20on%20the%203rd%20edition"
    },
    {
        "role": "assistant",
        "content": "Here are details on some of the third-party apps reported to work on the **BlindShell Classic 3**, what that means in practice, and what users should expect.\n\n---\n\n## \ud83c\udfaf Apps Mentioned by BlindShell & Distributors\n\nAccording to product listings and the official BlindShell \u201cApp Catalog,\u201d these third-party apps are officially *included* in the Classic 3\u2019s \u201cblind\u2010preference\u201d app catalog. BlindShell promotes them as favorites\u2014or at least commonly used\u2014but warns they aren\u2019t all \u201cguaranteed\u201d to be fully accessible. ([lssproducts.com](https://lssproducts.com/blindshell-classic-3-talking-cell-phone/?utm_source=openai)) ([blindshell.com](https://www.blindshell.com/us/support?utm_source=openai))  \n\nHere are examples:\n\n- WhatsApp  \n- Facebook Messenger  \n- YouTube  \n- Be My Eyes  \n- Amazon Shopper  \n- WayAround (object/label/tag recognition)  \n- Audible (audiobooks)  \n- Zoom  \n- Spotify  \n- Telegram ([lssproducts.com](https://lssproducts.com/blindshell-classic-3-talking-cell-phone/?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\n## \u26a0\ufe0f Caveats on Usability & \u201cSupported\u201d vs \u201cUnsupported\u201d\n\nBlindShell differentiates between two groups in its app setup:\n\n1. **BlindShell-curated apps**: Developed or adapted specifically for the BlindShell environment. These are guaranteed to work\u2014meaning good accessibility, voice prompts, physical keypad navigation, etc. ([pod.wave.co](https://pod.wave.co/podcast/the-blind-life-podcast/ep-40-blindshell-classic-3-the-best-accessible-phone-just-got-better?utm_source=openai))  \n2. **Third-party apps**: Standard Android apps from outside BlindShell. These may be installed via the \u201cThird-Party Apps Catalog,\u201d but BlindShell notes their *compatibility and accessibility are not guaranteed*. Sometimes gestures/touch are required; sometimes voice/readers may not fully work. ([blindshell.com](https://www.blindshell.com/us/support?utm_source=openai))  \n\nSo even if apps like Spotify or YouTube are listed, that doesn\u2019t ensure every version of those apps will work smoothly.\n\n---\n\n## \ud83d\udd0d What Users Report & What to Expect\n\nUser and retailer reports give additional insight:\n\n- The **touchscreen** becomes active *only when needed*\u2014typically in third-party apps. In BlindShell-built menus & core features, control remains with physical keys. ([pod.wave.co](https://pod.wave.co/podcast/the-blind-life-podcast/ep-40-blindshell-classic-3-the-best-accessible-phone-just-got-better?utm_source=openai))  \n- The screen reader (similar to Android\u2019s TalkBack) gives verbal feedback like \u201c1 of 3, 2 of 3\u2026\u201d in lists and grid layouts inside third-party apps. ([blindshell.com](https://www.blindshell.com/manual/download.php?file=manual_mandala_en.pdf&utm_source=openai))  \n- Apps like *Good Maps*, *Netflix*, *Facebook*, etc., are sometimes installed by users, though with varying success. Users say some layouts are accessible; others are not fully. ([reddit.com](https://www.reddit.com/r/Blind/comments/1kimc0f?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\n## \u2705 Summary: What You Can Expect from Classic 3\u2019s Third-Party App Support\n\n- You get access to a subset of Android-based apps via BlindShell\u2019s third-party catalog.\n- Some popular apps are listed as \u201cfavorites,\u201d presumed to work reasonably well\u2014but not all.\n- Touchscreen control / gestures are enabled *inside* third-party apps; not used in the main BlindShell interface.\n- There\u2019s a risk: certain apps may be hard to use\u2014or unusable\u2014with the physical keypad or screen reader, depending on how well they support accessibility.\n\n---\n\nIf you like, I can pull up recent user-tested compatibility reports (people who\u2019ve used Classic 3 in day-to-day life) to highlight apps that *definitely work well*, and ones people often say don\u2019t."
    },
    {
        "role": "user",
        "content": "I%20have%20coppied%20a%20file%20to%20dropbox%2C%20When%20I%20press%20shift%20f10%20the%20menu%20will%20not%20allow%20me%20to%20create%20a%20link%2C%20dropbox%20is%20updated%20totally%2C%20how%20else%20can%20I%20create%20a%20link%20to%20it%3F"
    },
    {
        "role": "assistant",
        "content": "If Shift + F10 (or right-clicking) isn\u2019t showing the \u201cCopy Dropbox Link\u201d or anything similar in the Dropbox context menu, there are alternative ways and fixes you can try. Here they are in order of ease:\n\n---\n\n## \ud83d\udee0 Fix or Check First\n\nBefore switching to other methods, check these so the context-menu option works properly:\n\n1. **Make sure Dropbox is running and synced**  \n   Dropbox must be active and current. If syncing is paused or files haven\u2019t fully downloaded, some context-menu options won\u2019t appear. ([community.dropbox.com](https://community.dropbox.com/en/discussion/176422/share-a-link-option-missing?utm_source=openai))\n\n2. **Ensure the desktop app is updated**  \n   Right-click menus often change with new Dropbox versions. If you\u2019re using an old version, update to latest. ([community.dropbox.com](https://community.dropbox.com/discussions/101001014/theres-no-option-to-share-a-link-via-the-dropbox-desktop-app-on-windows-11/779982/replies/824033?utm_source=openai))\n\n3. **Check whether the file/folder is \u201conline-only\u201d**  \n   If the file hasn\u2019t been fully synced locally (i.e. it\u2019s stored remotely via Files-On-Demand), there may be limited options. ([community.dropbox.com](https://community.dropbox.com/discussions/101001014/theres-no-option-to-share-a-link-via-the-dropbox-desktop-app-on-windows-11/779982/replies/824033?utm_source=openai))\n\n4. **Check Windows integration settings**  \n   In Dropbox preferences, make sure that Dropbox context menu integration is enabled. Also verify that no system or third-party utility is disabling context menu items. ([resource.dopus.com](https://resource.dopus.com/t/dropbox-context-menu-not-showing/42375?utm_source=openai))\n\nIf after all this, you still can\u2019t get the menu option, use one of the methods below.\n\n---\n\n## \ud83d\udd17 Alternate Ways to Create a Dropbox Link\n\n### 1. Using the **Dropbox website**\n\nThis always works, no matter what.  \n\n- Go to dropbox.com and log in.  \n- Locate the file or folder.  \n- Click the **\u201cShare\u201d** button (or hover your cursor over the item and a **Share** link/icon appears). ([help.dropbox.com](https://help.dropbox.com/share/share-with-others?utm_source=openai))  \n- If no link exists yet, choose **\u201cCreate link\u201d**, then **\u201cCopy link\u201d**.  \n- You can also set link permissions (view only vs edit) via **Manage link settings**, if your plan allows. ([help.dropbox.com](https://help.dropbox.com/share/share-with-others?utm_source=openai))  \n\n### 2. Using the **Dropbox desktop app / File Explorer (Windows)**\n\n- Open the local Dropbox folder in File Explorer.  \n- Right-click the file or folder.  \n- Look for an option like **Copy Dropbox Link** or **Share\u2026** as part of the Dropbox item in the context menu. ([learn.dropbox.com](https://learn.dropbox.com/self-guided-learning/dropbox-fundamentals-course/fundamentals-how-do-i-request-stuff-from-others?utm_source=openai))  \n- If \u201cShare\u2026\u201d is there, clicking it can lead you to create a link, then copy it. ([community.dropbox.com](https://community.dropbox.com/en/discussion/837822/having-trouble-creating-shared-links-via-the-link-settings-window-on-my-windows-desktop-app?utm_source=openai))  \n\n### 3. Using the **Dropbox mobile app**\n\n- Open the app, find the file or folder.  \n- Tap the \u201cmore\u201d options (usually an ellipsis `\u2026`).  \n- Tap **Share**, then **Create link** or **Copy link**.  \n- Choose view or edit permissions if that\u2019s supported. ([help.dropbox.com](https://help.dropbox.com/share/share-with-others?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\nIf you tell me whether you\u2019re using Windows, Mac, or mobile (and whether the Dropbox folder is fully synced), I can give you step-by-step instructions specific to your setup."
    }
]