EyeRing voice-activated augmented reality device for the blind

Technology has paved the way for new advances in the field of medicine. We’ve already seen apps such as the Busalert app and the Georgie Android app for the visually impaired. But the researchers over at MIT were able to develop a camera-equipped ring that could help the visually impaired identify objects and read text. It’s called EyeRing, and its creators describe it as a finger-worn device that allows you to point at an object, take a photo, and hear feedback about what it is you just focused on. Pattie Maes, a professor in MIT’s Media Lab, says that the EyeRing can also work as a navigation or translation aid.

It can even help children learn to read. The EyeRing also offers aural feedback through a wearable device. Printed with plastic using a 3-D printer, the augmented reality ring also has a small camera, a processor, and Bluetooth connectivity. A simple double-click to a button on the ring’s side and a voice command will initiate the process. EyeRing can be set to either identify text, colors, or even currency and prices on price tags. Just point the ring and click the button to capture a photo. Images are then sent to your Android smartphone via Bluetooth where an app will process the image and the generate the results via a digital voice. The team is currently working on an iPhone app as well.

Gene Ryan Briones
Categories: Concepts
Tags: Augmented Reality (AR), blind