LAMP Words for Life vs Sayella

LAMP Words for Life is an augmentative and alternative communication app for people with autism and other developmental disabilities. It combines speech output, a hybrid symbol system, and customizable layouts. Each word is assigned a consistent motor pattern, intended to support automaticity as vocabulary expands. The preprogrammed vocabulary contains thousands of words, forms, and endings, with options in English, Spanish, Canadian French, and German. Vocabulary Builder can display only selected words for focused practice, while Word Finder locates words and supports motor-sequence practice. Access methods include touch, single- or two-switch scanning, and head tracking on compatible devices. Voices include Acapela, Almagu, and VoiceKeeper. Data logging can sync with Realize Language, and iShareWFL backs up and shares customized vocabulary files. The app runs on iPhone, iPad, and Apple-silicon Mac. The listed individual iOS price is $149.99 as a one-time purchase, with a 30-day trial.

Sayella is an AAC communication app for nonverbal and minimally verbal children and adults. It turns pictures and words into spoken messages, with speech available offline on iPhone and iPad. Its customizable boards use a research-based core vocabulary, fixed button positions, and selectable board sizes. The app supports touch, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. Boards can be imported and exported in Open Board Format, including.obf and.obz files. Users can generate symbols from words or photos; free accounts include two generations, while paid plans allow unlimited generations. Sayella says AI requests go through Vercel AI Gateway to Google's Imagen and Gemini image models. It states that synced board data is encrypted, analytics do not receive AAC content, and personal data is not sold. Free costs nothing, billed forever, for one child and one device. Monthly costs £7.99 a month, Yearly costs £59 a year, and Lifetime costs £189, paid once. The download page lists Android and browser access as coming soon.