ARxVision, an assistive technology company, has announced that their ARx Gen1.5 wearable headset has been integrated with Microsoft’s Seeing AI app and the NaviLens app. Seeing AI, a visual assistant, is designed to “narrate the world” for individuals who are blind or have low vision. Its technology supports people with many tasks, such as reading mail, identifying products, and describing photos. NaviLens makes it possible for people who are visually impaired to read signs, labels, and other visual markings by scanning with a mobile camera to get the necessary information. It is of particular benefit in public places, such as transit facilities, since users do not need to know precisely where the visuals are placed. With this integration, people who are visually impaired can utilize both apps hands free. “’This collaboration, aligned with the launch of the ARx AI Gen 1.5 headset, marks the first exciting step towards an open platform that fosters global accessibility,” noted Charles Leclercq, CEO of ARxVision. Saqib Shaikh, software engineering manager and lead and founder of Seeing AI, Microsoft explained that “’This integration will …enable seamless access to information to users who are blind or have low vision.’” Javier Pita, CEO and Founder of NaviLens, added to the enthusiasm about this venture, stating that “’Now, anybody will be able to use cutting-edge…technology hands-free!’” To facilitate its use, the ARx app offers an onboarding tutorial, along with “integration of Large Language Models, and more offline functionalities.” In order to ensure that the technology is accessible around the world, ARx is partnering with the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) for global distribution, with support from other organizations, such as National Federation of the Blind (NFB), CNIB, and Vision Australia. During its initial release phase, the ARx AI Gen 1.5 can be purchased for $599; the standard retail price will be $799. The Seeing AI and NaviLens apps are available at no cost. Download Seeing AI here and download NaviLens here.
For more information, read the PR Newswire press release announcing that ARxVision Integrates with Microsoft Seeing AI app and Navilens app, Enhancing Accessibility Solutions for People who are Blind or Have Low Vision.
