New Orbit Reader Q20 and Q40 Firmware: HID Braille over USB

Orbit Research is pleased to announce the release of firmware version vB1.01.00.00r28 for the Orbit Reader Q20 and Q40.

Following are the new features and improvements:

1. Resolved an issue where QWERTY keyboard keys occasionally did not function correctly on the host when Orbit Reader Q40 is connected to a screen reader by using the HID-Braille protocol.
2. Resolved an issue where connection with screen readers did not automatically resume on when unplugging and plugging the cable back in using the HID-Braille protocol.

Important notes:

1. Starting with this release, support for all screen readers via USB is provided natively via the HID-Braille protocol. This will make sure a smooth connection with JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack over USB. Note: the minimum version of JAWS required to properly support the Orbit Reader Q family of displays over USB is JAWS 2026.
2. The HID-Orbit protocol, while still available, should only be used for special compatibility situations.
3. Support for JAWS over Bluetooth is available using the legacy Orbit Reader 40 driver. This means that some JAWS Braille functionality will only be available over USB.