Technology can be both a hinder and help to people with disabilities. While some devices, apps, and software are developed to aid in their ability to navigate the world, other devices and digital experiences may not be designed with them in mind. But both big tech and small companies are working to create assistive technology that can help make the world a little more accessible for everyone.
Microsoft: Accessories to Fit Any of Your PC Needs
Late last year, Microsoft announced a slate of Adaptive Accessories to help people find a system that works best for them when it comes to using their PC. The accessories include a Microsoft Adaptive Mouse ($44.99), Microsoft Adaptive Mouse Tail and Thumb Support ($14.99), Microsoft Adaptive Hub ($59.99), Microsoft Adaptive D-pad Button ($39.99), Microsoft Adaptive Joystick Button ($39.99), and Xbox Adaptive Controller ($99.99). Not only can these devices be customized to fit a user’s needs by creating custom inputs for different actions, but 3D-printed parts can also be ordered from Shapeways to better fit specific individuals.
Sony: Straight to the Retina
The Sony DSC-HX99RNV kit ($599.99) is a camera that helps people with visual impairments better capture the world around them. The camera’s RETISSA NEOVIEWER viewfinder uses laser technology to project a digital image directly to the retina, skipping the focusing function of the eye so even people with a visual impairment can see a clear and bright image. The camera also offers a 30x (24-720mm) optical zoom, so users can view landscapes, people’s faces, read signs, etc. through the camera.
Wearable Devices LTD: Control Without a Touch
Wearable Devices initially developed its Mudra Band ($199 for preorder) for the Apple Watch to allow users to control the smartwatch without needing to touch the screen. Instead, the band captures the neural signals sent from your brain to your fingers and recognizes different finger movements as commands for the watch. However, along the development cycle, the company added the ability for the band to control other Apple devices as well, including the iPhone, iPad, MacBook, and Apple TV with similar finger gestures. While anyone can use it, the device could be especially helpful for people who suffer from disabilities that make using touchscreens more difficult.
Xander: See What People Say
Xander, a Boston-based early-stage startup, is using the Vuzix Blade, smart glasses made by the Vuzix Corporation, to power its new XanderGlasses solution. These glasses will be able to display real-time captions for in-person conversations. The still-in-development device uses noise-cancelling microphones to capture clear speech and then projects the words onto the glasses display. The speech-to-text technology is built right into the glasses, so you don’t need to pair it with your phone or be connected over WiFi for it to work.
GlassOuse: It’s All in Your Head Movements
GlassOuse Assistive Device’s latest release, the GlassOuse PRO ($799.00), is made to help users control their other tech gadgets through three options. It can either be used as a nine-axis gyroscopic Bluetooth head mouse that can control your computer, phone, etc., with precise head movements; a switch control where movement (up, down, left, right) and multi-assistive switches can be used to control another device; or as a gaming joystick that lets users play their games through adaptive switches and gyroscopic movement.
