Voice operates the seat functions
Sunrise Medical announced voice activation for Switch-It CTRL+5 on 12 August 2025. The feature operates programmed power seating positions on compatible PG Drives R-net systems. The release names QUICKIE, ZIPPIE and Magic Mobility powerchairs. This is a seating-control feature; it is not a claim that the wheelchair navigates or drives autonomously.
Buttons and toggles remain available
The release describes a spoken wake command followed by a numbered command for a programmed seating function. Existing physical inputs remain available, voice activation can be switched off, and dealer personalisation is supported. The updated switch box is identified by numbered buttons and blue LEDs.
Match the input to the seating plan
An additional input method is useful when the usual switch is difficult to reach or operate. The relevant assessment is whether the user can reliably activate the intended function in their everyday environment.
Have the prescribed positions, stopping method and alternative controls explained at handover. Voice recognition is only the input: it does not decide which seating movement is appropriate for an individual.
