Alica: Bridging Communication Barriers for Non-Speaking Individuals through an iPad App
Crafted with love by our dynamic team of seven at the Apple Developer Academy @BINUS, Alica transcends the realm of mere applications; it stands as a powerful bridge to empower non-speaking individuals. After an inspiring three months marked by dedication, passion, and collaborative effort, I am happy to announce the release of our groundbreaking Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) app — Alica.
The Genesis
Alica itself stands for Assistive Language Interface for Non-speaking Communicators. Alica was born out of a mission to make a difference in the lives of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) through the integration of the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS). However, as our journey unfolded, the mission expanded. Recognizing the broader challenges faced by individuals with verbal communication issues, such as cerebral palsy and ALS, we decided to widen our scope, aiming to assist everyone in need.
The Unveiling
After months of relentless effort and collaboration, we are proud to announce that Alica is now available on the App Store. Here is the link to join us in this incredible journey of making communication accessible to all.
The Multilingual and Multiplatform Vision
Alica currently supports the Indonesian language, reflecting our commitment to addressing local needs. But our vision extends beyond borders. In the near future, we plan to cover other languages, ensuring that Alica becomes a truly global tool for communication.
We recognize the diversity of our user base, and we want to ensure that Alica reaches everyone, regardless of their device preference. Our team is diligently working towards developing the app for other platforms, so that Alica becomes accessible to a broader audience.
The Heartfelt Acknowledgments
We owe a debt of gratitude to those who made Alica’s development possible. Our mentors from Apple Developer Academy @ BINUS, deserve special mention for their invaluable feedback, support, and guidance. A heartfelt thank you to everyone from Rainbow Castle® Clinic, as well as Yayasan Sayap Ibu Bintaro, for their unwavering assistance throughout our researching and testing process. And, of course, immense gratitude to the amazing parents and individuals who supported us along the way.
The Stellar Team
Alica’s success is a testament to the incredible teamwork of Bayu Alif Farisqi, Fernando Putra, Jonathan Heriyanto, Radya Amirur Rahman, Rivian Pratama, Sebastian Gery, and myself. Each member brought unique skills and perspectives, creating a synergy that propelled Alica to new heights.
Under the Hood
Alica is not just a pretty face; it’s backed by robust technology. As I work as an iOS Developer on this team, we crafted this app using SwiftUI and SwiftData. The app also follows the MVVM pattern, as well as leveraging Speech Synthesis, VisionKit, ElevenLabs API, and Apple Lifting API. The main features include Indonesian-based content, accessibility-focused design, and personalized, customizable cards to cater to individual needs.
Conclusion
As we step into 2024, exciting developments await Alica. Get ready to witness the positive change we aim to bring to countless lives through accessible communication.
Here’s to breaking barriers and fostering meaningful connections! 🚀
