Apps designed to help those with disabilities are all the rage, but it remains unclear how effective such new technology really is.

Hundreds of apps have come on the market in recent years claiming to help those with special needs, particularly autism. But technology is moving faster than science can keep up, experts say, meaning that it’s unknown which, if any, of the apps are truly making a therapeutic difference.

Even app-makers themselves acknowledge that anyone with a few thousands dollars to invest can bring an app to market.

Nonetheless, for some parents eager to see results, the hope that new technology offers — and its relatively cheap price point — is enough to make it worth a try.

“The challenge with iOS apps is a lot are developed by well-meaning parents but under no guidance with autism experts… The danger is that the iPad becomes a really expensive toy,” one expert from Autism Speaks told IDG News Service. To read more click here.