Hello Everyone,

The following instructions are for those who, like me, want to enjoy their Braille formatted titles in iBooks using a refreshable Braille display, only. 

NOTE 1:
At the time of this post, it is not possible to import Web Braille or Braille (.BRF) files directly into iBooks.

NOTE 2:
I strongly encourage interested parties to send an email to Apple Accessibility (accessibility@apple.com) requesting that Web Braille or Braille formatted (.BRF) files be added to iBooks list of supported formats.

NOTE 3:
In order to use iBooks on your iOS device, it must first be downloaded from the iTunes App Store.

NOTE 4:
This document assumes that you are familiar with the iBooks interface.

NOTE 5:
This document assumes that you understand the difference between Literary Braille (Grade 1/Grade 2) and Computer Braille.

NOTE 6:
This document assumes that you know how to add files to your iTunes Library for data syncing with your iOS device. 

NOTE 7:
The following instructions are for those using either a Windows PC or an Apple OS X computer.

NOTE 8:
Before you begin, make sure you have either a PDF converter or eBook (.EPUB) converter already installed on your computer. 

NOTE 9:
Many popular word processors such as Apple’s Pages 9.x or Microsoft word 2007 or later can convert files to at least one of the required iBooks supported formats. 

NOTE 10:
Keep in mind that, all things being equal, a Web Braille or Braille formatted (.BRF) file is a plain text document.

1.
On your computer, open a Web Braille or Braille formatted (.BRF) file in your favorite text editor, word processor, or web browser. 

2.
Select and copy the contents of the opened file to your computer’s Clipboard.

3.
Paste the contents of your computer’s Clipboard  into your favorite PDF or eBook (.EPUB) converter and save the file, accordingly. 

4.
Import the newly saved file into your iTunes Library.  The title will appear on the Books Tab in the iTunes Library Source Pane.

NOTE 11:
It may be necessary to enter the Preference area of iTunes in order to display the Books Tab.

5.
Sync your iOS device to iTunes.

6.
On your iOS device, open iBooks and locate your newly imported title.

7.
After opening the Web Braille or Braille formatted (.BRF) title in iBooks, if necessary, mute VoiceOver, Apple’s software screen reading solution for the blind and low vision.

8.
If necessary, on your refreshable Braille display, toggle to uncontracted Braille (G-Chord).

9.
If necessary, on your refreshable Braille display, toggle to 8-Dot Braille Mode (Dots 2, 3, 6 Chord).
 
Enjoy,

Mark