Smartbox AAC

Smartbox AAC We create assistive technology for people who experience difficulty with speech, helping them communicate and live more independently.

This page brings together stories, support, new products, and updates from our Smartbox teams around the world.

02/09/2026

Grid Explorer getting a little crowded?

In this Mighty Minute from AT Specialist, Jess, we’re creating a personalised start screen that puts your most-used grid sets in one easy-to-access place.

Choose your favourites, add quick links and even set your new dashboard to open automatically when you start Grid 3 or Grid for iPad.

A small bit of personalisation that could save a lot of searching.

Save this one to try later!

Introducing Core Word of the Week - a new resource for Grid for Schools.  Core words are some of the most flexible words...
01/09/2026

Introducing Core Word of the Week - a new resource for Grid for Schools.

Core words are some of the most flexible words we use every day, from "go" and "more" to "help," "not" and "different."

Our new curriculum guide gives classroom teams a manageable way to build confidence modelling these words in Super Core 30 and 50, without turning communication into a weekly test or checklist.

Words build cumulatively across the term, with practical modelling ideas designed to fit naturally into existing classroom routines. The focus is on giving students repeated opportunities to see language being used, while respecting their communication, choices and autonomy.

Download Core Word of the Week from our Smartbox Hub: https://hub.thinksmartbox.com/topic/resources-grid-for-schools/

31/08/2026

Could AI make AAC faster without making everyone sound the same?

Smartboxers Chris and Alicia, and Emily and Trinity from Bridging Voice, explore what the future of AAC could look like - from wearable eye gaze to AI that helps speed up communication.

But faster isn't the only goal. The challenge is making sure technology learns the person behind the communication, so their personality, language and individual way of expressing themselves still come through.

Catch the full conversation on episode four (part two) of Start the Chat: The AAC Podcast, wherever you get your podcasts.

28/08/2026

Introducing Mighty Minutes!

AAC and technology can sometimes feel like a lot to get to grips with so we’re keeping things simple.

Our new Mighty Minutes series brings you quick, practical Grid tips, tricks and refreshers in around 60 seconds. Step by step, easy to follow and designed to help whether you’re new to Grid or just need a handy reminder.

Becky, one of our Clinical AAC Specialists, introduces what you can expect.

Keep an eye out for the first Mighty Minute coming soon.

27/08/2026

"Wait… it sees me. It understands me."

Karanveer still remembers the first time he used eye gaze.

What seemed like a simple interaction with a computer became a moment of possibility - a new way to express his thoughts, share his ideas and communicate on his own terms.

Sometimes, the smallest moments can have the biggest impact.

Catch the full conversation on episode four (part one) of Start the Chat, wherever you catch your podcasts.

26/08/2026

What's your favourite feature in Grid?

Randee's pick is the ‘Print’ feature.

Using Grid 3, you can turn digital vocabulary into printable communication supports for shared reading, classroom activities and home learning.

It's a simple way to keep communication consistent across school and home, giving everyone access to the same vocabulary.

Now we'd love to hear from you - what is your favourite Grid feature?

Communication goes beyond expressing wants and needs.It's about sharing a joke, giving a compliment, telling a story and...
25/08/2026

Communication goes beyond expressing wants and needs.

It's about sharing a joke, giving a compliment, telling a story and connecting with the people around you.

Ellise's and Elijah's experiences remind us that the social competency helps AAC users build relationships, express their personalities and take part in the everyday moments that matter most.

Read the full blog from our Clinical AAC Specialist and SLT, Becky Fry here: https://lnkd.in/egsf2TFq

Our annual Smartbox Family Customer Survey is now open. Every year, your feedback helps us understand what's working wel...
24/08/2026

Our annual Smartbox Family Customer Survey is now open.

Every year, your feedback helps us understand what's working well, where we can improve, and what matters most to the people who use and support Smartbox.

Whether you use AAC yourself, support a family member or friend, or work as a professional, we'd love to hear about your experiences.

It’s also available as an accessible Grid 3 grid set, so you can complete it in the format that works best for you. You can access it by going to Menu – Add grid set – Accessible Apps and searching for ‘Smartbox Surveys.’

Thank you for helping shape the future of Smartbox.

Take the survey here: https://6dzrgg40sjq.typeform.com/to/eaEUmM5V

Our August Course of the Month is ‘Developing Communication Partner Skills,’ recommended by our Group Senior Customer Ex...
21/08/2026

Our August Course of the Month is ‘Developing Communication Partner Skills,’ recommended by our Group Senior Customer Experience Specialist, Dave.

Being a good communication partner can make a real difference to someone who uses AAC. This course explores practical ways to develop your communication partner skills and support more meaningful, inclusive interactions.

Whether you regularly communicate with someone who uses AAC or are completely new to AAC, there’s something useful for everyone to take away.

Explore the course now: https://eng.academy.thinksmartbox.com/plus/catalog/courses/199

19/08/2026

Karanveer explains why he uses different access methods for different tasks.

Eye gaze helps him communicate and write. A head mouse gives him more control when editing videos. A blink switch makes clicking quicker.

There isn't a single "right" way to access technology. The best tool is the one that works for the person, their goals and the task at hand.

Listen to the full conversation in episode four (part one) of Start the Chat, wherever you catch your podcasts.

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Ysobel House, Enigma Commercial Centre, Sandys Road
Malvern
WR141JJ

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