KalamFrequently asked questions
Using Kalam
How do I get started?
Open the board in your browser — there is nothing to install or sign up for. A caregiver can adjust the tiles, names, and phrases in Caregiver Settings. When you are ready, install it on the tablet so it opens like a regular app and keeps working offline.
What device do I need?
Any tablet, laptop, or desktop with a recent browser (Chrome, Safari, or Firefox). A 10-inch screen or larger is recommended. This website works on a phone, but the board itself is designed for larger screens — the layout needs the room.
How does the board work?
You tap tiles to build a message in the bar at the top, then press Speak to say it aloud. There is a spell screen for any word that is not a tile, and a numbers screen for quantities. Caregivers can navigate by touch; the patient can use touch or a single switch.
Do I need a special switch?
No. Kalam doesn’t require specialist switch hardware. A keyboard can work as a switch — press Space or Enter — and some Bluetooth remotes, game controllers or USB foot pedals can work too. Specialist adaptive switches are also supported.
Does Kalam work offline?
Yes — once it has loaded online at least once and you have installed it. After that it opens, runs, and restores your saved message and settings without internet. On some devices the spoken voice may be unavailable offline, but the board still works visually.
Where is my data stored?
Everything stays on your device — messages, names, and settings. There are no accounts and no tracking, and nothing is sent to a server. Because local data can be lost if the device is reset, caregivers can export a backup file. See our Privacy page.
About the project
Why did you build Kalam?
Kalam was built for a family member living with ALS. We wanted to make Kalam available for anyone else who may need it.
Is Kalam free?
Yes. Kalam has no account, subscription, or payment. Dedicated AAC devices and clinical communication software can cost thousands; Kalam is a simpler free communication option. It does not replace specialist AAC assessment or equipment when those are needed.
Will Kalam ever charge me anything?
No. Kalam is free, and it is meant to stay free, forever, for everyone.
Is the app finished?
It works today for the person it was built for, but Kalam is far from perfect. We are committed to improving it continuously.
How do you fund development?
For now, with our own time and resources. We have set up a way to accept voluntary donations to help collect funds for future development and recurring costs — but donating is not and will never be a condition of using Kalam.
Does Kalam have ads?
No. There are no ads anywhere in the app, and the patient and caregiver experience is never interrupted by anything commercial.
Is Kalam a medical device?
No. Kalam is a communication aid. It does not provide medical advice, monitoring, or treatment, and is not a substitute for professional care.
Is anything on this site medical advice?
No. We are not doctors and we make no clinical claims. What we share is our experience — if it helps, that is wonderful. For any medical decision, please consult qualified professionals.