TalkingArch For Linux

TalkingArch is an open source distribution of Linux based on the flexible and rock-solid Arch Linux operating system. It has been designed from the ground up to be used by blind and visually impaired people.

It is distributed as a single, dual-arch CD-size ISO image that can be easily written to a USB flash drive or burned on a blank CD disc. Supported architectures include 64-bit (x86_64) and 32-bit (i686).

The boot menu is identical with the one used by the original Arch Linux distribution, allowing users to start the live environment in order to install the system on a local disk drive. It is also possible to boot an existing OS, run a memory test, and view detailed hardware information.

Please keep in mind that this is not a Live CD of Arch Linux. Users will have to install the distribution manually by following the instructions provided by Softpedia at http://news.softpedia.com/news/A-Beginners-Guide-to-Installing-Arch-Linux-352365.shtml.

The main difference between the original Arch Linux ISO image and this one, is that the latter includes speech and braille support for blind and visually impaired users, helping them to easily install the operating system.

This means that the distribution does not include a specific desktop environment. Instead, users can install one after completing the first part of the standard Arch Linux installation. GNOME is our favorite one, but you can also install Xfce, KDE, Cinnamon, or MATE.

Just like Arch Linux, TalkingArch provides users with a rolling release model, which means that you install once and you get all the latest versions of the packages deployed during installation and after, forever (or at least until a fresh installation is needed).

Summing up, TalkingArch is a great distribution that follows the Arch principles and provides blind and visually impaired users with an eyes-free way to install this award winning operating system on their computers.