Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly producing developments in computer vision and voice recognition. It’s making accessibility features easier for consumers to reach – great news for people with disabilities! The availability of accessibility technology as specialised products has rapidly increased in recent years, and it’s hoped that making these products mainstream will help 285 million people worldwide who have visual impairments.
Aira is an assistance system that has been launched to make life easier for the blind or visually impaired. AT&T states: “Aira makes use of smart glasses, AT&T connectivity and Aira’s network of certified agents to help the blind navigate their surroundings.” Using smart glasses or a phone camera, Aira’s technology lets an agent view the blind or visually-impaired person’s surrounding in real-time and communicate with them to let them know the situation. This makes it so much simpler to carry out daily activities such as travelling, grocery shopping or attending appointments if you can’t see.
It’s not just Aira that’s assisting the visually impaired; it’s the use of voice technology in general! Google’s Home and Amazon’s Echo voice technology are aiding the visually impaired to be able to access information quicker and easier than before. Voice technology means there’s no need for those with sight issues to learn interaction through the keyboard or screen anymore.
Those with visual impairments can feel like their missing out on using iPads, smartphones and apps, but not anymore! Voice assistants mean they can get information instantly, whether that’s checking the weather, time or the latest headlines.
It’s great that AI is doing good for the world, rather than being a novelty that only high-tech experts can get their hands on. It’s a step in the right direction and we think the opportunities are endless with AI. Keep up to date with the latest improvements in AI and more of the latest tech news at www.laptopoutletblog.co.uk.