Technology is advancing rapidly, and with it, opportunities for people with impaired vision. When choosing a phone for the blind or visually impaired, you'll encounter various models, functions, and applications that enhance device performance. What should a good phone for the visually impaired be equipped with? How does a dedicated device differ from a smartphone for a blind person — and which one to choose? We advise.
What features and functions does a phone for the visually impaired have?
There are special devices available on the market dedicated to the blind and visually impaired. Some devices created for sighted users will also pass the test. They just need to be prepared accordingly. Let's look at the functions of phones that will be used by visually impaired individuals.
Basic functions, which are essential for using the device:
- Voice navigation of the phone — this refers to full voice navigation. It's essential for the user to be able to operate the device freely using voice commands.
- Voice text reading — makes using the phone easier — listening to emails, messages, articles.
Additional functions, which facilitate daily functioning for the visually impaired and increase their quality of life:
- GPS navigation — helps users navigate their surroundings. For blind individuals, this function must be voice-controlled. It's worth checking out apps that additionally inform about pedestrian crossings or public transport stops, e.g., Adriane GPS.
- Light detector — an option available on some dedicated smartphones for the blind or as an app. It allows you to recognize, for example, whether the lights in your home are turned off.
- Contactless payment technologies — so-called NFC on a smartphone (e.g., Google Pay or Apple Pay apps), makes daily shopping easier. Thanks to them, a blind user can pay quickly with their phone without searching for cash or a payment card. Installing a contactless payment app is only possible on smartphones.
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Types of phones for blind or visually impaired people
If you're wondering what phone to choose for the blind or visually impaired, it's worth considering different options — both simple devices with a keypad and smartphones designed specifically for the blind. Both groups have their pros and cons.
- Phones with voice dialing and a numeric keypad
A device advertised as a phone for the visually impaired or blind differs from most devices available on the market. It has a classic keypad with large buttons that are easy to feel and a fully voiced menu.
This allows the user to hear all messages from the display, dictate an SMS, use the address book, alarm clock, or calculator. Often, the phone is equipped with a special S.O.S. button, which allows the user to quickly contact a selected person or emergency number.
- Smartphone for the blind or visually impaired
A properly adapted smartphone can serve users with impaired or absent vision very well. The main challenge, the lack of a traditional keyboard, is solved by voice and navigation apps. Android and iOS software developers offer some basic conveniences by default — you'll find them in the phone's settings.
The iOS operating system has built features for the visually impaired into its phones, such as text magnification using Zoom or Magnifier. Another option is VoiceOver, an application for blind users.
How does VoiceOver work? It reads and describes iPhone actions and facilitates overall operation.
Android developers have equipped the system with the TalkBack function. Its task, like VoiceOver, is to operate the device by voice.
Apps for the blind on smartphones:
- Lookout recognizing objects
Lookout is an AI-powered app that uses the camera to recognize objects around. It can also "read" banknote denominations, barcodes, signs. The app is available for Android phone users.
An alternative for reading denominations is Cash Reader, available for both iOS and Android devices.
- Light Detector
Light Detector detects light — natural and artificial. Thanks to this, a blind or visually impaired person will be able to find its source. The app works on iOS. Android users can find the same functions in the Blind Light program. - Envision AI — reads texts, recognizes objects and people
The app was developed with the participation of blind and visually impaired individuals. Envision allows you to scan any elements of your surroundings on any objects, e.g., a menu board in a cafe, letters, signs on buildings. Using artificial intelligence and optical character recognition, it reads and describes elements of space to the user.
A smartphone designed for the blind or visually impaired includes: BlindShell 2 or (after installing the necessary apps) newer smartphones with Android/iOS. The latter option, contrary to appearances, may turn out to be cheaper than a dedicated device for the blind.
Choosing a phone for the blind: traditional with large buttons or a smartphone?
The approach to devices and technology, and consequently, the needs associated with them, are individual matters. So, what to choose — a device with a keypad or a touchscreen?
Dedicated phones for the blind offer simple actions: making voice calls, sending SMS messages, and an emergency button. If the main goal is communication — a phone with a keypad will be suitable.
Modern smartphones prepared for the visually or blind offer users many more functions. You can connect them with GPS, use contactless payment apps, and even special Braille keyboards. This is an option for those who are not afraid of technology and will use their phone to listen to articles, music, audiobooks, and dictate emails by voice.
The final choice belongs to the user.
See also: Smartphones for seniors
