If you've ever looked into AAC apps and devices, you've probably noticed they all focus heavily on one thing: helping users request objects or actions. "I want water." "I need help." "I'm hungry."
Requesting is important. But according to recent research, it's only a fraction of what human communication actually is.
AAC can be used effectively by persons with speech or speech-related disabilities to accomplish a variety of communicative functions. However, the majority of AAC interventions reported in the literature focus on requesting — and while it is important to initially teach requesting skills, commenting should not be neglected. As AAC emerges, commenting is essential for social engagement, social closeness, and information transfer.
This matters enormously for real-world communication. Think about what you actually say in a day. You comment on the weather. You make jokes. You express opinions. You tell someone what you noticed. None of that is "requesting" — but all of it is what makes conversation feel human.
A phrase builder that only covers basic needs leaves people stranded in real social situations. Leslie's phrase builder was designed with this in mind — 680+ words across 10 categories, plus quick phrases and free-text input, so users can express not just needs but thoughts, reactions, and personality.
Communication isn't just about survival. It's about being a person.