Assistive Technologies for the Blind and Visually Impaired | Tony Gebhard
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Assistive Technologies for the Blind and Visually Impaired
A Comprehensive Guide to Independence Through Technology
Table of Contents
- Introduction to Assistive Technology
- Screen Readers
- Screen Magnifiers
- Braille Displays and Resources
- Accessible Mobile Applications
- AI-Powered Assistive Technology
- Other Notable Technologies
- Assistive Technology Vendors and Dealers
- National Advocacy Organizations
- Vocational Rehabilitation Services
- Funding and Financial Assistance
- Additional Resources
Introduction to Assistive Technology
Assistive technology is the cornerstone of independence for people who are blind or visually impaired. These tools enable us to access information, perform daily tasks, pursue education, maintain employment, and engage fully in society. The Technology Related Assistance to Individuals with Disabilities Act of 1988 defined an assistive technology device as “any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.”
Assistive technologies range from “low-tech” solutions like white canes and talking watches to “high-tech” innovations including AI-powered smart glasses and sophisticated screen reading software. The key is finding the right combination of tools that match your specific needs, preferences, and lifestyle.
Screen Readers
Screen readers are software applications that convert on-screen text and interface elements into speech or braille output, enabling blind and visually impaired users to interact with computers, smartphones, and tablets. Modern screen readers can navigate complex websites, read documents, manage email, and work with virtually any application.
JAWS (Job Access With Speech)
JAWS is the industry-leading screen reader for Windows, developed by Freedom Scientific (now part of Vispero). It provides comprehensive speech output and braille support, with advanced features for navigating web content, working with Microsoft Office applications, and handling complex documents. JAWS 2024 introduced AI-powered features including Picture Smart AI for image descriptions and Face In View for video conferencing.
Key Features: Customizable verbosity settings, scripting capabilities for application-specific support, multi-language support, and integration with refreshable braille displays.
NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access)
NVDA is a free, open-source screen reader for Windows developed by NV Access. Despite being free, NVDA offers comprehensive functionality including support for over 55 languages, braille display compatibility, and the ability to run from a USB drive. NVDA’s open-source nature means it receives regular updates and has a vibrant community of add-on developers.
Key Features: Portable installation option, extensive add-on ecosystem, support for Java and web applications, and compatibility with modern braille displays.
Website: nvaccess.org
VoiceOver (Apple Devices)
VoiceOver is Apple’s built-in screen reader, available on macOS, iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, and tvOS at no additional cost. VoiceOver is deeply integrated into the operating system, providing consistent access across all Apple devices. On iOS, VoiceOver uses a gesture-based interface that has become highly intuitive for mobile accessibility.
Key Features: Built-in at no cost, seamless integration across Apple ecosystem, braille display support, and extensive rotor navigation options for web and document navigation.
Website: apple.com/accessibility/vision
TalkBack (Android)
TalkBack is Google’s built-in screen reader for Android devices. It provides spoken feedback and vibration cues to help users navigate their devices without visual input. TalkBack works with gestures similar to VoiceOver and integrates with other Google accessibility services including Select to Speak and Voice Access.
Key Features: Built-in to Android devices, braille keyboard support, multi-finger gestures, and integration with Google Assistant.
Website: Google TalkBack Support
Narrator (Windows)
Narrator is the built-in screen reader included with Windows 10 and Windows 11. Microsoft has significantly improved Narrator in recent years, making it a viable option for basic screen reading needs. While not as feature-rich as JAWS or NVDA, Narrator provides immediate accessibility without additional software installation.
Website: Microsoft Narrator Guide
Screen Magnifiers
Screen magnifiers enlarge content on the screen for users with low vision, often enhancing contrast, clarity, and color settings to optimize visibility. Many magnification solutions also include screen reading capabilities for a combined approach.
ZoomText
ZoomText is a leading screen magnifier and reader for Windows, developed by Freedom Scientific. It enlarges everything on-screen up to 60x while maintaining clarity through proprietary xFont technology. ZoomText includes an integrated screen reader (AppReader) for reading documents and web pages aloud.
Key Features: Magnification up to 60x, color enhancement and contrast adjustments, smooth font technology, cursor and focus enhancements, and integrated screen reading.
Fusion
Fusion combines the full power of ZoomText magnification with JAWS screen reading in a single integrated solution. This combination is ideal for users who benefit from both magnification and comprehensive screen reading, or whose vision may fluctuate.
Key Features: Seamless switching between magnification and screen reading, all features of both ZoomText and JAWS, unified licensing.
Windows Magnifier
Windows Magnifier is the built-in magnification tool in Microsoft Windows. It offers full-screen, lens, and docked magnification modes with zoom levels up to 1600%. While more basic than commercial alternatives, it provides immediate accessibility at no cost.
Website: Microsoft Magnifier Support
macOS Zoom
Mac computers include built-in Zoom accessibility features that provide full-screen or picture-in-picture magnification options. Zoom works system-wide and can be activated with keyboard shortcuts for quick access.
Website: Apple Zoom Support
Braille Displays and Resources
Braille remains a vital literacy tool for many blind individuals. Refreshable braille displays provide tactile output by raising and lowering pins to form braille characters, enabling users to read digital text by touch. These devices connect to computers and smartphones via USB or Bluetooth and work in conjunction with screen readers.
Refreshable Braille Displays
Modern braille displays come in various sizes, typically ranging from 14 to 80 braille cells. Smaller displays are more portable, while larger displays provide more context for reading and editing documents.
HumanWare Brailliant BI X Series
The Brailliant BI X series represents HumanWare’s latest braille display technology. Available in 20-cell (BI 20X) and 40-cell (BI 40X) configurations, these displays feature Bluetooth 5 connectivity, text-to-speech capabilities, and the KeySoft Lite application suite. Users can download books directly from online libraries including Bookshare, NLS BARD, and NFB Newsline.
Key Features: Text-to-speech for braille learning, Wi-Fi connectivity, standalone notetaking, 16GB internal storage, and multi-device Bluetooth pairing.
Website: humanware.com
Freedom Scientific Focus Series
The Focus line of braille displays from Freedom Scientific is designed for seamless integration with JAWS. Available in 14, 40, and 80-cell configurations, Focus displays feature comfortable navigation controls and Bluetooth connectivity.
Website: Freedom Scientific Focus
Mantis Q40
The Mantis Q40, also from HumanWare, combines a full QWERTY keyboard with a 40-cell braille display. This hybrid design makes it ideal for users who prefer typing on a standard keyboard while reading braille output.
Website: HumanWare Store
Braille Resources and Literacy
National Braille Press
A nonprofit organization promoting braille literacy through braille books, technology guides, and educational products.
American Printing House for the Blind
The world’s largest nonprofit organization creating accessible educational and daily living products for people who are blind.
National Library Service (NLS)
A free braille and talking book library service for US residents who cannot read standard print, administered by the Library of Congress.
Bookshare
The world’s largest accessible ebook library for people with reading barriers, offering books in braille, audio, and large print formats.
Accessible Mobile Applications
Smartphone apps have revolutionized accessibility by putting powerful tools in our pockets. These applications leverage cameras, AI, and connectivity to provide real-time assistance in ways that were unimaginable just a decade ago.
Be My Eyes
Be My Eyes connects blind and low-vision users with sighted volunteers through live video calls for visual assistance. The app also features Be My AI, powered by GPT-4, which provides instant AI-generated descriptions of images. Additionally, the Specialized Help section connects users directly with accessibility teams from companies including Microsoft, Google, and Procter & Gamble.
Platforms: iOS and Android
Cost: Free
Website: bemyeyes.com
Seeing AI (Microsoft)
Seeing AI is a free app from Microsoft that narrates the world around you. It can read short text, documents, and handwriting; identify products by barcode; recognize currency; describe people, scenes, and colors; and provide light level detection.
Platforms: iOS
Cost: Free
Website: seeingai.com
Google Lookout
Google Lookout uses AI and the phone’s camera to help identify surroundings, read text, scan documents and barcodes, and describe images. The app works offline for many features and integrates with TalkBack for a seamless experience.
Platforms: Android
Cost: Free
Website: Google Play Store
Envision AI
The Envision app uses your smartphone’s camera to read text in over 60 languages, describe surroundings and objects, identify faces, scan documents, and detect colors. The app can also connect to Envision smart glasses for hands-free operation.
Platforms: iOS and Android
Cost: Free with premium subscription options
Website: letsenvision.com
KNFB Reader
KNFB Reader is a professional-grade OCR app that converts printed text to speech or braille. It excels at reading complex documents, multi-column layouts, and can export text in various formats.
Platforms: iOS, Android, and Windows
Cost: Paid
Website: knfbreader.com
OKO (Pedestrian Signals)
OKO is an AI-driven app that recognizes pedestrian walk and don’t walk signals. By using the rear-facing camera of a smartphone, it provides audio cues indicating when it may be safe to cross, enhancing mobility safety.
Platforms: iOS and Android
Cost: Free
Website: intuitiveoko.com
AI-Powered Assistive Technology
Artificial intelligence has ushered in a new era of assistive technology, enabling devices that can understand and describe the visual world in unprecedented detail. These tools combine computer vision, natural language processing, and wearable hardware to provide real-time assistance.
OrCam MyEye
OrCam MyEye is a wearable AI device that attaches to eyeglasses and provides instant access to visual information. It can read text from any surface, recognize faces, identify products and currency, and describe scenes. The OrCam MyEye 3 Pro includes the “Just Ask” feature powered by AI that allows users to ask questions and receive contextual responses.
Key Features: Reads text instantly by pointing, stores and recognizes faces, identifies products by barcode, works offline, and weighs only 22.5 grams.
Website: orcam.com
Envision Glasses
Envision Glasses bring AI-powered visual assistance to a smart glasses form factor. Powered by the Envision Ally AI assistant, these glasses can read text, describe scenes, identify people, scan documents, and even connect to live human assistance through Aira integration. The hands-free design enables users to access visual information naturally while going about their daily activities.
Key Features: Real-time text recognition, voice control, instant audio feedback, Aira integration for live human assistance, and approximately 5-6 hours of battery life.
Website: letsenvision.com
Aira
Aira provides on-demand access to trained visual interpreters through smart glasses or a smartphone app. When a user activates the service, an Aira agent can see through the device’s camera in real-time and provide detailed visual information, navigation assistance, and help with tasks ranging from reading mail to navigating airports. Aira also offers Access AI, a free AI-powered service that provides instant image descriptions.
Key Features: Live human visual interpretation, AI-powered instant descriptions, nationwide access points at airports and businesses, and employment assistance programs.
Website: aira.io
Glidance Glide
Glide is a revolutionary mobility device developed by blind entrepreneur Amos Miller. Unlike traditional wearable or handheld mobility aids, Glide rolls along the floor with the user holding a handle, similar to a guide dog partnership. Using cameras and sensors, Glide detects obstacles, recognizes doors and elevators, and provides navigation assistance through haptic feedback and audio cues.
Key Features: Passive kinetic guidance (moves with the user’s pace), obstacle detection for moving and stationary objects, indoor and outdoor use, and haptic and audio feedback.
Website: glidance.io
GoodMaps
GoodMaps provides indoor navigation with meter-level accuracy using camera-based positioning technology. The app can locate a user’s position inside buildings and provide turn-by-turn directions to points of interest, a significant improvement over GPS-based systems that typically only work outdoors.
Website: goodmaps.com
Other Notable Technologies
Smart Canes
Enhanced white canes equipped with sensors that detect obstacles and provide navigation assistance through vibrations or audio cues.
WeWALK Smart Cane
The WeWALK Smart Cane integrates ultrasonic sensors for obstacle detection above chest level, GPS navigation, and smartphone connectivity. Users receive vibration alerts for obstacles and can access navigation apps through the cane’s touchpad.
Website: wewalk.io
Video Magnifiers (CCTVs)
Desktop and portable video magnifiers use cameras to display magnified images of printed materials on a screen, often with adjustable contrast, colors, and magnification levels.
OCR (Optical Character Recognition)
OCR technology converts printed text into digital text that screen readers can process. Modern OCR is built into many apps and devices, and dedicated OCR scanners provide high-accuracy text recognition for documents and books.
Accessible Notetakers
Dedicated devices combining braille displays with word processing, calendar, email, and other productivity applications. Examples include the BrailleNote Touch from HumanWare and the Braille Sense from HIMS.
Guide Dogs
Guide dogs remain an important mobility option for many blind individuals. Several organizations train and place guide dogs at no cost to qualified recipients.
Guide Dogs for the Blind
Guiding Eyes for the Blind
The Seeing Eye
Southeastern Guide Dogs
Assistive Technology Vendors and Dealers
The following companies manufacture, sell, and support assistive technology products for blind and visually impaired users. Many offer product demonstrations and training services.
Major Manufacturers
Vispero (Freedom Scientific, HumanWare, and more)
Global leader in assistive technology, parent company of Freedom Scientific (JAWS, ZoomText), HumanWare, and other AT brands.
Freedom Scientific
Developers of JAWS, ZoomText, Fusion, and Focus braille displays.
HumanWare
Braille displays, magnifiers, and accessible technology solutions including the Brailliant, Mantis, and Victor Reader lines.
Retailers and Dealers
MaxiAids
Major retailer of assistive products for independent living, carrying a wide selection of blindness and low-vision aids.
LS&S (Learning, Sight & Sound)
Products for the blind, visually impaired, deaf, and hard of hearing.
Low Vision Supply
Blind-run, family-owned business offering low vision aids, magnifiers, braille devices, and reading aids.
The Low Vision Store
Video magnifiers, assistive technology, and training services.
Braille Superstore (Future Aids)
Braille books, talking gadgets, and assistive products.
Independent Living Aids
Products designed to help people with vision loss live independently.
National Advocacy Organizations
These organizations advocate for the rights and welfare of blind and visually impaired individuals, provide resources and support, and work to shape policy at local, state, and national levels.
National Federation of the Blind (NFB)
Founded in 1940, the NFB is the oldest and largest organization of blind people in the United States, with over 50,000 members and affiliates in all 50 states. The NFB advocates for civil rights and equality, provides scholarships, and operates programs including NFB Newsline and the Jernigan Institute.
Philosophy: “Blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future.”
American Council of the Blind (ACB)
Founded in 1961, the ACB strives to increase the independence, security, equality of opportunity, and quality of life for all blind and visually impaired people. The ACB has state affiliates and special interest groups covering various aspects of blindness.
American Foundation for the Blind (AFB)
The organization to which Helen Keller devoted her life, AFB works to ensure that people who are blind or visually impaired have equal rights and opportunities. AFB conducts research, advocates for policy changes, and provides resources through the AFB Senior Site, CareerConnect, and FamilyConnect programs.
Foundation Fighting Blindness
The largest private funder of retinal disease research, the Foundation Fighting Blindness funds studies on retinitis pigmentosa, macular degeneration, Usher syndrome, and other conditions.
Blinded Veterans Association (BVA)
An organization of blinded veterans helping fellow blinded veterans through service programs, advocacy, and peer support.
Hadley
Provides free educational courses on blindness skills, technology, and independent living for individuals who are blind, visually impaired, or deafblind, as well as their families.
Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) is a federally and state-funded program designed to help individuals with disabilities prepare for, obtain, maintain, or regain employment. For people who are blind or visually impaired, VR services are often provided through specialized state agencies that focus specifically on blindness-related needs.
What is Vocational Rehabilitation?
The Vocational Rehabilitation program is authorized under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) of 2014. Services are provided at no cost to eligible individuals and are tailored to each person’s unique strengths, abilities, interests, and employment goals.
To be eligible for VR services, an individual must have a physical or mental impairment that creates a substantial impediment to employment, require VR services to prepare for, obtain, maintain, or regain employment, and be able to benefit from VR services in terms of an employment outcome.
Services Provided
VR agencies provide a comprehensive range of services based on each individual’s needs, which may include:
Assessment and Counseling
Vocational evaluations, career counseling, and development of an Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) that outlines goals and the services needed to achieve them.
Assistive Technology
Assessment, training, and provision of assistive technology including screen readers, magnifiers, braille displays, and other adaptive equipment needed for employment.
Blindness Skills Training
Instruction in adaptive daily living skills, orientation and mobility (white cane travel), and adjustment to blindness. Many states operate residential training centers for intensive skill-building.
Education and Training
Support for college, vocational school, apprenticeships, or on-the-job training to develop skills for specific career paths.
Job Placement and Support
Job search assistance, resume development, interview preparation, job placement services, and supported employment for individuals who need ongoing support to maintain employment.
State Agencies for the Blind
Many states have separate agencies that provide VR services specifically for people who are blind or visually impaired. These specialized agencies employ staff with expertise in blindness and often provide more comprehensive services tailored to the unique needs of blind individuals.
Oregon Commission for the Blind
Established in 1937, the Oregon Commission for the Blind (OCB) provides vocational rehabilitation, independent living, and youth transition services to Oregonians who are blind or visually impaired. Services include counseling and guidance, assistive technology training, orientation and mobility instruction, and job placement assistance. OCB operates the Orientation and Career Center for the Blind (OCCB), an in-depth residential training program in Portland.
Contact: 535 SE 12th Ave, Portland, OR 97214 | 971-673-1588
Federal Oversight
Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA)
Part of the U.S. Department of Education, RSA oversees federal grant programs for vocational rehabilitation and independent living services. RSA provides guidance and technical assistance to state VR agencies and monitors compliance with federal requirements.
Related Programs
Randolph-Sheppard Program
Provides opportunities for blind individuals to operate vending facilities on federal and other properties.
Independent Living Services for Older Individuals Who Are Blind (OIB)
Services for individuals age 55 and older with significant visual impairments, focusing on independent living skills.
Social Security Ticket to Work
A free program that helps Social Security disability beneficiaries return to work while maintaining benefits during the transition.
Job Accommodation Network (JAN)
Free guidance on workplace accommodations and disability employment issues.
Finding Your State VR Agency
To find your state’s vocational rehabilitation agency or commission for the blind:
Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation (CSAVR): csavr.org – Directory of all state VR agencies.
National Council of State Agencies for the Blind (NCSAB): ncsab.org – Information on state agencies specifically serving people who are blind.
APH Directory of Services: aphconnectcenter.org – Searchable directory of services and agencies by state.
Funding and Financial Assistance
Assistive technology can be expensive, but multiple funding sources may be available to help cover costs.
State Vocational Rehabilitation Agencies
VR agencies can fund assistive technology when it is needed for employment. This is often the primary funding source for expensive items like braille displays and screen reading software.
Medicare and Medicaid
May cover certain assistive devices when prescribed by a physician as medically necessary. Coverage varies by state for Medicaid.
Veterans Administration (VA)
Provides assistive technology to eligible veterans through the VA’s Blind Rehabilitation Service.
IDEA Funding for Students
Schools are required to provide assistive technology when it is needed for a student to receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE). The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) provides federal funding to support these services.
Nonprofit and Foundation Grants
Organizations like Lions Clubs International, Knights Templar Eye Foundation, and state-specific foundations provide grants for assistive technology and eye care.
Computers for the Blind
A nonprofit providing refurbished computers with assistive technology to people who are blind or visually impaired at no cost. No income or age requirements.
Additional Resources
Training and Education
APH ConnectCenter
Resources, information, and a directory of services for people who are blind.
Perkins School for the Blind
Educational resources, webinars, and training on blindness topics.
Accessibility Standards
Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)
International standards for making web content accessible.
Section 508
Federal accessibility standards for electronic and information technology.
Conferences and Events
CSUN Assistive Technology Conference
The largest assistive technology conference in the world, held annually in California.
NFB National Convention
Annual convention of the National Federation of the Blind, featuring workshops, exhibits, and networking.
ACB Conference and Convention
Annual gathering of the American Council of the Blind membership.
Tony Gebhard 