We found some great apps for low vision technology users that you may not be aware of. They’re cheap, easily downloaded and hugely useful. Apps have made a world of difference for people who are blind or have low vision.
Simple tech like smartphones with camera give people their independence back, and in some cases act as a second pair of eyes.
Apps are like the tools in a toolbox , you can treat your phone like a good old fashioned Swiss picket knife with all the gadgets on it.
There are apps that read documents out loud, apps to identify people’s facial expressions, and apps that even tell you the colour of your shirt!
Be My Eyes
Cost: free
Description: Connects you to a group of volunteers who you can ask for assistance in identifying things like currency or labels. Why it’s good for blind/low vision users: It’s a global, multi-lingual initiative and is operational 24/7. The volunteer on the other end of the call will be able to see using the user’s smartphone camera. Just use with discretion.
Good Maps Outdoor
Cost: Free
Description: Blind specific GPS
Why it’s good for blind/low vision users: It’s a fully accessible turn-by-turn GPS app for smartphones. It’s made in collaboration with Guide Dogs VIC/NSW/ACT, it’s designed specifically for Australian locations. It also gives you the altitude and speed, and lets you know about upcoming turns and critical intersection information via audio and/or vibrations.
Seeing AI
Cost: free
Description: Talking camera specifically designed for blind/low vision users
Why it’s good for blind/low vision users: Speaks text as soon as it appears in front of the camera;scans barcodes, using audio beeps to guide you; describes an overall scene; identifies colours, reads handwritten text like in greeting cards; saves people’s faces so you can recognise them.
Other useful apps
Woolworths and Coles apps allow you to search for a product and it will tell you what isle it’s in, as well as the price. The Bunnings Find Me app also allows you to for a product and it will tell you what aisle it’s in, the price and it’s in stock.