KalamFrequently asked questions
Honest answers to the questions we hear most often.
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. Any keyboard works as a switch — press Space or Enter. So does an inexpensive Bluetooth remote, a game controller, or a USB foot pedal. Specialized adaptive switches are supported too, but never required. See "What you need" for details.
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 motor neuron disease. It started as a tool for one person — and grew from there.
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. We are setting up a way to accept voluntary donations to help cover hosting — but donating will never be a condition of using Kalam. There are no ads, and nothing is sold inside the app.
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.