Various devices for visually-impaired people are now available. It is true that they are quite expensive, but it is also true that they will be a great help.
MIT Media Lab developed FingerReader, a reading assistant that allows visually-impaired people to read texts. Its users can simply scan text lines with their fingers to hear the words. The device also alerts the user when his or her finger strays from the text line, which helps the reader focus more.
OrCam, an Israeli company, and its product of the same name, is another example. This gadget works at a distance; its wearers can simply point to a sign ? or anything that contains text ? with their fingers, and the device will read it aloud. The device can also save data for its users to remind them details about who they are with or what they are doing.
Since the invention of braille in 1821, which allowed blind people to read raised bumps with their fingers, technology has continued to advance. Perhaps the FingerReader and OrCam will serve as models for other devices to be invented. It may also be possible for similar technologies to help those who are hearing-impaired or have mobility difficulties.
Tony Jang Staff Reporter (tonyjang@timescore.co.kr)
Various devices for visually-impaired people are now available. It is true that they are quite expensive, but it is also true that they will be a great help.
OrCam, an Israeli company, and its product of the same name, is another example. This gadget works at a distance; its wearers can simply point to a sign ? or anything that contains text ? with their fingers, and the device will read it aloud. The device can also save data for its users to remind them details about who they are with or what they are doing.