HumanWare has released a new update for the Victor Reader Stream 3, bringing meaningful improvements to navigation, podcasts, Bluetooth connectivity, and overall system reliability. This update focuses on giving users more control, improving performance, and refining the listening experience for people who rely on the Stream every day.
If you already own a Victor Reader Stream 3, this is a worthwhile update that enhances usability across multiple areas of the device.
Smarter Bookshelf Navigation
One of the most noticeable improvements is enhanced bookshelf customization and navigation.
You can now hide apps you don’t use in the online bookshelf. For example, if you don’t use Internet Radio or Podcasts, you can remove them from rotation so they no longer appear when cycling through bookshelves. This helps simplify navigation and reduces button presses.
For users who prefer a different navigation method, there is now a new List Mode option. Traditionally, pressing the 1 key rotates through bookshelves. With List Mode enabled (it is off by default), pressing 1 opens a list of available apps that you can navigate using keys 4 and 6. This provides a more structured and direct way to move between content sources.
The idle timer, which previously defaulted to 30 minutes, is now configurable. This gives you greater control over automatic shutdown behavior—especially helpful for longer listening sessions.
Improved Podcast Management
Podcast listeners will benefit significantly from this update.
Each podcast feed can now be configured individually for how many episodes to keep. This allows you to prevent storage from filling up while still keeping the content you care about.
You can also adjust how frequently the device checks for new podcast episodes. Previously fixed at 30 minutes, the update interval is now customizable, offering better control over data usage and battery life.
Behind the scenes, performance improvements make podcast handling more stable and
efficient. Several frustrating issues have also been resolved:
- Podcast descriptions no longer include unwanted HTML markup.
- Bookmarks in podcasts are no longer lost after moving episodes.
- Issues when moving multiple podcast files at once have been fixed.
Together, these improvements make the HumanWare Victor Reader Stream 3 an even stronger accessible audiobook and podcast player for daily use.
New Download Manager
A long press of the 3 key now opens the Download Manager, allowing you to cancel or reprioritize downloads across all apps in one place.
This is especially helpful if you download from multiple services such as Bookshare, NLS BARD, or podcasts. You no longer have to wait for downloads in a fixed order—now you can adjust priorities as needed.
Expanded Bluetooth Capabilities
Bluetooth functionality has been significantly enhanced in this release.
A long press of the 9 key now brings up saved Bluetooth devices for faster reconnection. This reduces setup time when switching between headphones or speakers.
Bluetooth media controls are now supported. If your headset or speaker supports AVRCP, you can use play, fast forward, and rewind directly from the device. This adds convenience and flexibility, especially for users who prefer to control playback from their headphones.
Additionally, connecting a Bluetooth keyboard now allows text entry in supported fields such as Wi-Fi passwords and search boxes. At this time, US-standard QWERTY keyboards are supported, with additional configurations expected in future updates.
Broader Format and Content Support
This update expands compatibility with more content types and services:
- M4B files can now be navigated by chapters when properly marked.
- Support for eBRF files has been added.
- Bookshare now supports “My Assigned Books.”
- Older .3gp note files from previous Stream models can now be played.
- Non-Latin and accented characters are now accepted in Wi-Fi network names (SSIDs).
These changes ensure better compatibility with modern content while also supporting long-time users upgrading from earlier devices.
Important Bug Fixes and Stability Improvements
Several important fixes improve overall reliability:
- Resolved issues where configuration files (such as Wi-Fi or account credentials) could become corrupted.
- Fixed problems with Internet Radio favorites reappearing after reboot.
- Corrected occasional failures of the automatic shutdown timer.
- Fixed issues with certain TuneIn favorites not appearing.
- Improved handling of HTML files.
- Resolved issues with braille books on BARD.
- Language improvements in German and punctuation fixes in Swedish.
While not always visible, these stability improvements contribute to a smoother and more dependable user experience.
Why This Update Matters
The Victor Reader Stream 3 is already one of the most trusted digital talking book players for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. This update reinforces its position by:
- Reducing navigation complexity
- Improving podcast reliability
- Expanding Bluetooth usability
- Enhancing compatibility with Bookshare and NLS BARD
- Increasing user customization
These are practical, real-world improvements that make everyday listening easier and more efficient.
How to Update
If you already own a Victor Reader Stream 3, we recommend installing the latest firmware update to take advantage of these enhancements.
If you are considering purchasing a HumanWare Victor Reader Stream 3, this update further demonstrates its ongoing development and long-term support.
You can learn more or purchase the device here:
https://www.lowvisionsupply.com/products/victor-reader
If you have questions about updating your device, our team at Low Vision Supply is happy to help.
