A Guide to Technology for Navigating the World with a Visual Disability
Navigation has become smarter and more inclusive for individuals with disabilities than ever before.
The Navigation Technology page of the Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities website details how, thanks to advancements in technology, moving around in public spaces is becoming increasingly accessible for those with visual impairments. An expanding array of apps and tools assist users in orienting themselves, discovering accessible routes, and confidently navigating both indoor and outdoor environments.
Enhancing Navigation with Technology
A variety of technological tools can improve navigation and orientation, including:
– Geolocation technology
– Indoor Positioning Systems (IPS)
– Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) scanning technology
– Beacons
– Wi-Fi
– Smart device apps
These tools are often integrated to provide the most effective user experience.
What Are These Technologies?
– Geolocation technology identifies the location of accessibility features. Smart devices with Global Positioning System (GPS) capabilities or stand-alone systems provide real-time updates and location-based services, offering valuable insights on barrier-free routes and delivering audio and visual cues to assist with navigation.
– IPS technology consists of a network of devices used to locate objects in areas where GPS lacks precision, such as multi-story buildings, underground locations, parking garages, and airports. Typically, beacons work in tandem with an app to provide location information.
– LiDAR technology employs lasers to measure distances and create a three-dimensional map that helps users navigate with the aid of a smartphone camera and an app.
– Beacons are small devices that emit a radio signal detectable by Bluetooth-enabled devices. Smartphones and tablets equipped with Bluetooth technology are usually paired with an app for enhanced functionality.
How Are These Technologies Used?
Systems for Accessible Navigation
Two prevalent systems for accessible navigation include:
– Audible format signage: This system uses audio cues to provide directions, share location information, and identify barriers, assisting individuals who are blind or have low vision. Braille can be incorporated alongside this system.
– App-assisted navigation: This feature allows smart devices to receive guidance from tools like beacons or LiDAR technology to facilitate navigation.
Examples of Navigation Apps
– Aira: This on-demand visual interpreting service connects users to trained professionals for visual interpretation, navigation assistance, and information reading. Businesses can purchase minutes to geofence their environments, notifying visitors on how to access the service for free through the Aira app.
– GoodMaps: Utilizing LiDAR scanning technology, GoodMaps establishes a digital map for indoor navigation. Technicians scan venues to capture data, and users can download the app to receive verbal and visual directions at no cost. The app supports multiple languages.
– RightHear: This navigation system employs IPS technology for both indoor and outdoor spaces. Businesses create an online portal and install Bluetooth beacons in key locations like restrooms and exits. Users can access free directions and information via an app on their smart device, with beacons requiring no tools or electricity for installation.
Additional Apps for Accessible Navigation
Several apps assist users in identifying accessibility features in public spaces:
– AccessNow: This platform allows users to discover accessible locations using a mobile device, with information derived from artificial intelligence technology, business data, and user reviews.
– Be My Eyes: This free app connects users with volunteers who provide sighted support through live video or AI using the device camera. It’s helpful for finding items, interpreting artwork, reading labels, grocery shopping, navigating new locations, and tracking public transport schedules.
– Google Maps: This feature indicates whether a business has essential accessibility components, such as parking, entrances, seating, and restrooms. Users can enable this feature for free in their mobile device’s accessibility settings.
Best Smart Phones for Individuals with Visual Disabilities
Renowned for its comprehensive built-in accessibility features.
Features: This phone boasts top-tier features like the VoiceOver screen reader, Siri assistant, magnification, dark mode, dictation, and a talking keyboard.
Benefits: The iPhone is equipped with numerous accessibility features for individuals with visual disabilities. VoiceOver offers audible screen navigation, while Zoom magnifies content for easier viewing. Additional tools such as the Magnifier, Display & Text Size adjustments, and audio descriptions enhance users’ interaction with both digital and physical environments.
Recipient of the prestigious FeelVision Award for Best Product at SightCity 2025—one of Europe’s leading assistive technology expos.
Features: This accessible smartphone includes a physical keypad, AI and remote assistance, a limited touchscreen for third-party apps, a fully vocalized interface, tactile buttons, an adjustable high-contrast display, loud audio, and a dedicated charging cradle.
Benefits: The phone combines a familiar tactile keypad with a touchscreen for improved smartphone functionality. It has a long-lasting battery and built-in AI tools like the Luna assistant and Observo for object and color recognition. It also features the Tandem app for remote support from sighted friends or family and allows for third-party app installation, making it versatile and independently usable.
A strong alternative with integrated tools for visual accessibility.
Features: Users can use Google Assistant for voice commands, voice-to-text functionality, and the TalkBack screen reader for navigation.
Benefits: Google Pixel phones provide substantial benefits for individuals with visual disabilities through AI-powered features like the Lookout app, which reads signs and text aloud, and Guided Frame, which uses audio cues to help users take photos and selfies. Other helpful tools include the TalkBack screen reader for device navigation, a built-in Braille keyboard, the Magnifier app for reading small text, and adjustable display options for contrast and font size.
Do you have more technology, app, or smart phone recommendations for navigating the world with a visual disability? Please reach out to ACIL at 937-341-5202 or [email protected] to share your suggestions, and we will pass them along via this newsletter.