The Power of
On-Device AI for Digital Success

Executive Summary & Introduction

In the ever-evolving digital world, access to technology is more than a convenience—it’s a bridge to opportunity in our professional, educational, and personal lives. This project collaboration, formed by the Amputee Coalition Workforce Development Program, Cephable, and Qualcomm Incorporated, centers around a shared commitment to utilize innovative technology to build greater digital independence, job readiness, and productivity for everyone. The white paper highlights the experiences of 40 adults living with limb loss and limb differences who integrated Cephable’s software and on-device AI-powered PCs. Integrating secure on-device AI into employees’ daily routines doesn’t just lower barriers – it unlocks transformative opportunities in the workplace. By automating repetitive tasks, AI empowers workers to focus on creative problem-solving, leading to enhanced productivity and job satisfaction. On-device AI on PCs has showcased that data privacy and high-performance compute are achievable and embraced by all.

Findings at a Glance:

• Boosts productivity and efficiency: 65% of participants reported faster task completion within four weeks.
• Reduces physical strain and fatigue: 70% experienced increased comfort using Cephable’s adaptive controls.
• Enhances workplace readiness: 79% of participants indicated they would continue using Cephable post-project, with 88% likely to recommend it to others.

“The different aids that Cephable and this computer offer are amazing. This project has opened my eyes to a world of advancement for those who need special assistance like me. Bravo for seeing a need and completely changing the game in AI technology!”

Tiffani A. | Project Participant

Disability is All of Us

Disability is shaped by context, emerging when inaccessible physical or digital environments create barriers to participation and connection. Disability can be understood as the space between a person’s abilities and an inaccessible environment around them. Not all disabilities are visible or apparent.

Time Spectrum of Disability

Permanent Disability: muscular dystrophy, autism

Temporary Disability: broken arm or loss of voice from an illness

Situational Disability: navigating a computer in direct sunlight or an accent while visiting a new region

Disability Examples

Present at Birth: Lifelong experience with disability
Ex. down syndrome, cerebral palsy

Acquired During the Lifetime: Aging, accident, or health conditions
ex. spinal cord Injury, arthritis

AI Meets Adaptive Technology

On-Device AI & Privacy

NPU processing enhances performance and prioritizes user privacy by keeping data localized, reducing reliance on cloud-based systems. Cephable’s LLMs are loaded on the NPU chip so no data is sent to the cloud.

Benefits of On-Device AI

Cephable’s accessibility tools operate efficiently on the dedicated AI Neural Processing Unit (NPU) brought by the Snapdragon® X Elite platform, freeing up CPU and GPU, traditional computer resources, to ensure programs run smoothly and extend battery life.

Cephable’s Technology

Replaces traditional inputs with on-device AI adaptive controls using voice, facial expressions, and movement. It allows individuals and teams to work more efficiently, reducing strain and creating a more flexible, intuitive digital experience.

Cephable’s AI-driven Tools

Customizable inputs for diverse abilities, bringing personalized control to everyone through: Voice Commands, Facial Expressions, Physical Switches, Virtual Buttons, Head Movements, Motion Controls.

From Concept to Connection

Program Development & Methodologies

Each participant was given a new AI PC laptop powered by the Snapdragon® X Elite platform chip. We wanted to see how we could level up workforce readiness & productivity with the use of this new hardware paired with Cephable’s innovative software. Participants integrated their new digital setups into daily routines, sharing insights and experiences as they worked and played.

Recruitment

40 participants were selected from within the Amputee Coalition’s Workforce Development program.

Selected Individuals:

• Focused on improving their workforce readiness goals in school, applying for jobs, or within their current roles.
• Use computers frequently
• Found exploring alternative inputs valuable
• Had a curiosity for learning & exploring

Onboarding & Training:

• In-depth digital entrance survey: established baseline demographic data & identified current tech challenges, goals, and expectations.
• Multi-modal onboarding & training: written program briefings plus a structured virtual onboarding session

Active Use, Feedback & Support:

• Integrated the use of new technologies into their daily workflows for 4 weeks.
• Weekly check-ins completed via digital surveys capturing insights on usability & impact
• Multiple support channels: email, Discord chat, virtual office hours with Cephable team members
• A smaller subset of participants provided 1-1 virtual interviews to share deeper stories and personal experiences
• Methodology blended qualitative and quantitative data collection

Before the Program: Participant Goals

Progress Towards Meaningful Employment
“I would love to find a remote position with a local company.”

– Charles C.

Discovering New Tools
“I don’t know what is out there to use. So, learning to use new programs and tools would be great.”

Participants and Demographics

During the Project

Assistive Technology Usage

Before the project, only 14% of participants used assistive technology during most of their time spent on computer tasks. They reported lack of availability, unfamiliarity of options, or financial barriers.

Throughout the project, 55% of participants used their AI PC + Cephable daily or most days while another 32% reported using their devices several days throughout each week. On the days of reported use, 78% of all participants used Cephable over half the time for their computer tasks.

AI PC Speed & Responsiveness

Each week, over 3/4 of participants confirmed that their new AI PC delivered better speed and responsiveness compared to their old computer.

Battery Life

Week to week, 90% of participants reported that their new AI laptop’s battery life outperformed their previous computer.

Embracing New Tools

As the program unfolded, participants embraced their new tools, shifting from limited assistive technology before the project to leveraging Cephable and their AI-powered PCs regularly.

AI & Privacy

Throughout the project, participants highlighted the importance of privacy-focused design, emphasizing the reassurance that comes from local data processing on the NPU. This approach not only enhances trust but also reduces concerns about cloud vulnerabilities.

Cephable never sends data to the cloud and leverages the NPU to ensure local performance where cloud processing might otherwise be present.

Apps, Programs, & Task Focus:

Participants embraced their new tools for a wide range of tasks, with work-productivity apps leading the way week after week. Microsoft Word, Excel, Google Chrome, and Outlook were staples for writing, data management, and staying organized, while Google Docs facilitated collaboration. Yet, their devices proved to be more than just workhorses—they became hubs of creativity and connection. Apps like Canva and Photoshop supported artistic expression, while YouTube bridged education and entertainment. Gaming platforms such as League of Legends and Roblox highlighted the devices’ versatility, offering moments of play amidst productivity. QuickBooks, Zoom, and social media platforms rounded out the mix, showcasing the diverse applications of these tools in work, communication, and everyday life.

After the Program

Task Speed & Productivity

With brand-new, never-experienced software and hardware in week one, 21% of participants immediately noticed a difference. As familiarity grew over the program, 65% of all participants reported faster digital task completion by week four.

Comfort & Fatigue

70% of participants reported positive sentiment and quotes throughout the program related to physical comfort/fatigue and ease by adding Cephable & their new AI PC to their workflow.

Continued Use:

79% of participants reported that they will most likely or very likely adopt Cephable into their digital workflow after the project.

88% of the participants said they will likely recommend Cephable and an AI PC to a friend or family member.

What began as a focus on workplace improvements revealed a deeper impact: accessible technology helps blur the line between work and play, with time-saving tools opening new possibilities.

By reducing cognitive and physical demands, assistive tools free individuals to focus on what matters most—whether that’s excelling professionally by growing new skills, exploring creative pursuits, or enjoying personal connections. This efficiency not only supports sustainable employment and positive workplace experiences but also enhances overall well-being, proving that digital independence is about more than just productivity—it’s about living a fuller, more balanced life.

The project’s impact is notable in participants’ use of technology and their approach to daily tasks. With the integration of on-device AI, many workers transitioned from frustration or neutrality to enhanced efficiency, independence, and creativity. Their experiences underscore how on-device AI has been a game-changer, significantly boosting productivity, confidence, and comfort.

After the Program: Participant Goals

Progress Towards Meaningful Employment
“Having a new computer and system, better improves my ability to gain employment and independence..”

– Charles C.

Discovering New Tools
“Since my only functioning upper extremity is a battery powered prosthetic, this program assists my computer usage when I have issues with my prosthetic arm. No computer downtime!”

– Martina S. 

Breaking Down Digital Walls for an Accessible Future

Therese’s Story Saving Time = Productivity Gains + Improved Creativity & Mental Health

Assistive technology and her newer, faster laptop reignited her motivation to regain her previous productivity levels, sparked creative ideas, and helped restore her sense of self after experiencing limb loss.

Therese worked in retail management for 30 years before her life changed due to the amputation of her leg. She faced significant life changes, including being let go from her long career. Determined to rebuild her professional life, she only recently started exploring her options for assistive technologies through this project. Not only have the new tools encouraged professional growth and opportunities to take new courses, but she found a newly discovered motivation to explore creativity and connection digitally with her family, friends, and new hobbies.

“I used to do a lot of writing, and when I lost my leg, I kind of lost the desire to continue…So with the voice technology, I can talk and do my writing. I’ve written some children’s books and I’m in the process of writing a story, a mystery too… And so it’s taking my mind off of that other aspect of my life. It takes your mind off of the other journey for a while and gives you something to look forward to. It just has given me more confidence in myself at doing things.”

– Therese | Project Participant

As We Move Forward

The heart of accessibility is more than just technology—it’s about creating connections, fostering collaboration, and designing a future where everyone has opportunities to succeed. Throughout this project, we’ve seen how accessible AI-driven tools have the ability to transform lives by turning digital chores into digital ease, saving time and energy for what truly matters. For some, that’s excelling in the workplace or rebuilding professional confidence. For others, it’s rediscovering creativity, strengthening personal connections, or simply reclaiming moments of joy.

“When we talk about collaboration, there are so many one-and-done initiatives due to funding or resources. The reverberations may last six months to a year. But where are the long-tenured, three-to-five-year collaborations where the impacts are felt for generations? When organizations and communities come together and ask, ‘What trees can we plant that we won’t necessarily sit in the shade of, but that we still plant?’—that, to me, is why individuals show up for projects like this. They’re part of something bigger than themselves.”

– Maurice Henson | Amputee Coalition’s Workforce Development team

As we move forward, let’s prioritize people over short-term goals and checkboxes, and make technology that is private, personalized and works for everyone. When access is no longer limited, and companies and individuals embrace high-performance NPUs, we pave the way for continued innovation. This is just the beginning. Every tool, every advancement, and every story reminds us that creating opportunities for all is a shared responsibility.

Appendix

Qualcomm*

We need the full boiler plate: Qualcomm relentlessly innovates to deliver intelligent computing everywhere, helping the world tackle some of its most important challenges. Our proven solutions drive transformation across major industries, and our Snapdragon® X Elite platform power extraordinary consumer experiences. Building on our nearly 40-year leadership in setting industry standards and creating era-defining technology breakthroughs, we deliver leading edge AI, high-performance, low-power computing, and unrivaled connectivity. Together with our ecosystem partners, we enable next-generation digital transformation to enrich lives, improve businesses, and advance societies. At Qualcomm, we are engineering human progress.

Amputee Coalition

The Amputee Coalition is a national 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. There are over 5.6 million people currently living with limb loss and limb difference in the United States. Since 1986, the Amputee Coalition has served members of the limb loss and limb difference community, their families and caretakers. Through the work of our volunteers, partners, and staff we strive to improve the lives of our community through peer support, education, and expanding resources to create a world where our community thrives.

The Amputee Coalition’s Workforce Development Program, is designed to assist participants (youth ages 15-17, adults, and veterans) within the limb loss and limb difference community with career exploration, transitioning back into the workforce, or starting their journey into the workforce.

Cephable

Cephable is an AI powered software that utilizes patent-approved technology to change the way we interact with our devices. Individuals can use facial expressions, body gestures, virtual buttons, voice commands, and tilt controls – each engineered to adapt to people’s abilities. The software leverages AI, automation, and accessible UX design. Anyone can bypass traditional inputs and more fully use their preferred capabilities.

*Qualcomm and Snapdragon branded products are products of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and or its subsidiaries.

References

1. Council for Disability Awareness. (2021, September.) Disability statistics. Disability Can Happen. Retrieved December 3, 2024,  
2. Krishna, G. (2015). The best interface is no interface: The simple path to brilliant technology. New Riders.
3.World Health Organization. (2022, May 16). Almost one billion children and adults with disabilities and older persons in need of assistive technology denied access, according to new report. 
4.World Health Organization. (2024, January 2). Assistive technology. Retrieved December 05, 2024