Symbols Only
A distraction-free communication mode that removes text labels and category color coding, displaying only clean symbols on a neutral background. Designed for users with cognitive difficulties, aphasia, or visual processing challenges who benefit from maximum visual clarity and minimal interface noise.
What is Symbols Only Mode?
A simplified display mode that strips away text labels and Fitzgerald color coding, leaving just the symbols on a uniform background — ideal for users who rely purely on visual recognition rather than reading.
Clean, Distraction-Free Display
Symbols Only mode removes all text labels from beneath symbols and replaces the Fitzgerald color-coded category backgrounds with a single neutral color. This dramatically reduces visual clutter and cognitive load.
The result is a calm, focused communication board where each symbol stands on its own — perfect for users who find text and multiple colors overwhelming or confusing.
Built for Aphasia & Cognitive Support
This mode is specifically designed for adults with aphasia (e.g. after a stroke), traumatic brain injury, or cognitive impairments who benefit from a simplified interface. By removing text that the user cannot read and color coding that may cause confusion, communication becomes more intuitive.
Therapists and caregivers can activate Symbols Only mode instantly from settings, adapting Isaac to each user's abilities without losing any vocabulary or grid structure.
Full Vocabulary, Simplified Presentation
Symbols Only mode doesn't reduce the vocabulary — it changes only how it's displayed. All 2,000+ symbols, categories, and grid levels remain fully accessible. The sentence bar, speech output, and navigation work exactly as in other modes.
Users can switch between Symbols Only and other display modes at any time. The grid layout and symbol positions stay identical, preserving motor memory and familiarity.
Key Features
Symbols Only mode focuses on removing barriers and making communication as clear and direct as possible.
No Text Labels
All text beneath symbols is hidden, leaving only the visual symbol. Ideal for non-readers or users who find text distracting.
Neutral Background
Fitzgerald color coding is replaced with a single, calm background color — reducing visual noise and cognitive overload.
Instant Switch
Toggle Symbols Only on or off from settings at any time. No need to reconfigure the grid — everything stays in place.
Speech Still Works
Even without visible text, every tapped symbol is spoken aloud. The speech output remains fully functional in all 7 languages.
Larger Symbol Area
Without text labels taking up space, symbols are displayed larger — making them easier to see, recognize, and tap accurately.
Motor Memory Preserved
Grid positions remain identical across all display modes. Switching to Symbols Only never rearranges the board.
Who Benefits from Symbols Only?
This mode is designed for specific user groups who communicate more effectively when the interface is visually simplified.
Adults with Aphasia
Post-stroke patients who can recognize images but struggle with textTraumatic Brain Injury
Users with cognitive fatigue who need reduced visual complexityIntellectual Disability
Individuals who rely on picture recognition rather than literacyPre-literate Children
Young communicators who haven't yet learned to readVisual Processing Disorders
Users overwhelmed by multiple colors and text layersAutism Spectrum
Some users on the spectrum prefer a cleaner, more predictable layoutDementia & Aging
Elderly users with declining cognitive or reading abilitiesTransitional Use
A stepping stone before introducing text labels or color codingHow It Compares
Symbols Only is one of several display modes in Isaac AAC. Here's how it differs from the standard Symbol Grid and High Contrast mode.
Symbols with text labels and Fitzgerald color coding. Full visual information for users who can read and benefit from color-coded word types.
Larger symbols with higher contrast colors and bolder outlines. Designed for users with low vision who still benefit from text and color cues.
Symbols without text labels or color coding. Maximum clarity for users who rely on visual recognition alone and need minimal interface distraction.
Resources for Symbols Only
Supporting materials to help therapists, caregivers, and families make the most of the Symbols Only mode.
Printable Symbol Boards
Free downloadable communication boards matching the Symbols Only layout — without text or color coding, for offline and clinical use.
Setup Guide
How to enable Symbols Only mode, adjust grid settings, and transition users between display modes smoothly.
Aphasia & Clinical Guide
Best practices for using Symbols Only with aphasia patients, including assessment tips and therapy integration strategies.
Try Symbols Only mode today
Download Isaac AAC for free and switch to Symbols Only — available in every installation, ready for users who need a cleaner communication experience.
