What does Glass afford the blind right now?
It cannot be denied that Google Glass has some gaping design flaws for the blind community. To meet the usability and accessibility standards of AFB Tech, much change will need to occur in terms of software, hardware, and applications. Still, the device has been met with enthusiasm in the blind community. This is perhaps because they can readily perceive its incredible possibilities. A group of 18 blind and visually impaired students in the Netherlands tested Glass and gave responses of, “This is just great, what does it cost?” and, “It feels like I am playing a computer game.”
The voice command feature seemed to offer the greatest appeal, and signaled the greatest opportunities for future development. Perhaps what the beta version of Google Glass gives, is not perfect utility, but rather hope and anticipation of good things to come.
It cannot be denied that Google Glass has some gaping design flaws for the blind community. To meet the usability and accessibility standards of AFB Tech, much change will need to occur in terms of software, hardware, and applications. Still, the device has been met with enthusiasm in the blind community. This is perhaps because they can readily perceive its incredible possibilities. A group of 18 blind and visually impaired students in the Netherlands tested Glass and gave responses of, “This is just great, what does it cost?” and, “It feels like I am playing a computer game.”
The voice command feature seemed to offer the greatest appeal, and signaled the greatest opportunities for future development. Perhaps what the beta version of Google Glass gives, is not perfect utility, but rather hope and anticipation of good things to come.
Other Companies and Developers Moving Ahead
OrCam is a device like Google Glass; however, it was designed specifically for the blind and visually impaired and has built-in sight recognition software that discreetly informs the wearer through an audio feed of any object the wearer points to. It is currently available for $2,500, and can be attached to your own glasses. This product gives a good look at where Google Glass may be heading for the blind community.
OrCam is a device like Google Glass; however, it was designed specifically for the blind and visually impaired and has built-in sight recognition software that discreetly informs the wearer through an audio feed of any object the wearer points to. It is currently available for $2,500, and can be attached to your own glasses. This product gives a good look at where Google Glass may be heading for the blind community.
Here is a short interview with the inventor of OrCam.