Question

How current technology can be used to help people with vision problems?

List some future inventions might make blindness and vision loss easier to live.

Answer 1

Ans) Screen Reading software and special talking and Braille devices allow those of us with no vision to use computers, cell phones and other electronic devices independently.

Cellphones and tablets have revolutionized the way people who are blind or visually impaired interact and use technology.

Future interventions:

- eSight glasses have been designed to benefit people living with a variety of different eye conditions, from cataracts to glaucoma and macular degeneration.

- The futuristic design looks like a compact VR headset, and houses a high-speed, high-definition camera that captures everything the wearer is looking at. Medically-validated algorithms enhance the footage, before presenting it in near real-time on two close-up screens, with the added ability to zoom and make images up to 24 times larger – giving people who struggle to see a much clearer view of the world.

2. Aira

- Along with those who struggle to see, Aira is aimed at people who can’t actually see at all, and is capable of making a life-changing difference to those who are completely blind. These smart glasses mix old and new technology flawlessly – using augmented reality to capture what the wearer is looking at, before connecting to a certified agent who can describe the live feed to the wearer.

- This provides an audio picture that can help those with no vision at all to see exactly what’s going on around them.
- Although we can’t imagine wanting audio descriptions at all hours of the day, Aira can certainly provide an invaluable service when it’s needed most – helping wearers to get out and about and navigate for themselves.

3. OrCAM MyEye 2

- The OrCam MyEye is a handy gadget that clips onto an existing pair of spectacles – looking not overly dissimilar to older, bulkier Bluetooth headsets.

- It features a camera that connects to a wearable computer designed to fit in a pocket, which can in turn relay audio feedback describing visual information, including text, facial recognition and products, for the wearer.

- Although it can’t match Aira for the descriptive prowess of an always-on community, OrCam doesn’t need an internet connection to function, and is handy for those wanting to check out the latest news or identify products without having to communicate with other people.

4. Argus II

- Argus II takes a more technical approach with the use of a bionic retinal implant alongside a camera, making it possible for people who are completely blind to enjoy a basic form of sight.

- The bionic implant is capable of receiving information from the Argus II’s camera and generating electrical signals that can be sent down the optic nerve for the brain to interpret.

- Although it won’t necessarily be suitable for everybody with eyesight issues (like those with damage to their optic nerves, for example), the Argus II has had some impressive results – even making it possible for some visually impaired people to read again.

5. Dot Watch

- It’s easy to get excited by the latest smart watch or wearable, but if you can’t actually see, you’re destined to miss out. That’s where the Dot Watch comes in.

- Replacing traditional screens with active braille technology, the Dot Watch gives the wearer access to call and message notifications, the time and date and even weather updates, with connectivity to your phone via Bluetooth.

- Sure, it won’t physically help you to see, but it is incredibly cool, and having access to information can make your life a whole lot easier.