Google’s new apps to help the blind navigate
By ANIWednesday, October 13, 2010
NEW YORK - Google has released two new applications that would help blind users of their Android smartphones navigate the world.
The Walky Talky app gives audio walking directions to the user. Unlike the standard Navigation app, it also calls out street addresses as you pass them, helping the user keep their bearings when travelling in unfamiliar areas, reports the New York Daily News.
T.V. Raman of Google, who lost his site to glaucoma at age 14, wrote on his blog Eyes-Free Android, “These spoken updates, in conjunction with the walking directions that are spoken by Google Maps help me navigate the physical world as efficiently as I navigate the Internet.”
Another new app, Intersection Explorer, also helps users feel comfortable in new locations by allowing them to explore and learn the layout of a neighbourhood on their phone before stepping foot outside.
The user hears directions and locations as they move their finger over the map on the screen.
J.J. Meddaugh of ATguys.com posted his reaction saying: “This is really awesome, and I especially appreciate the ability to explore my surroundings. The approach is quite innovative.” (ANI)
