From bionic prostheses to artificial intelligence. Technology has become a key bridge between people with disabilities and a more accessible and inclusive world. Discover how these innovations change lives.
The advances in accessible technology They demonstrate that more and more tools can be developed to improve the lives of people, especially those with disabilities.
From devices that enable mobility, to tools that facilitate understanding and communication, accessible technology has helped break barriers, reduce dependencies, promote equal opportunities and improve the quality of life of millions of people in the world.
Below, we tell you about some of the most significant innovations in this area.
Bionic prostheses
Prostheses have advanced enormously thanks to technology. Bionic prostheses, for example, are equipped with sensors that connect to the user’s muscles, allowing much more precise but, at the same time, natural movements.
These prostheses not only replace limbs, but also improve functional capacity and the independence of people. In addition, it is worth mentioning that technologies such as 3D printing have significantly reduced the costs and production times of prostheses, making them more accessible.
Screen readers for the visually impaired
The screen readers They are programs that convert text to speech, sound icons or Braille, allowing people to access digital information independently.
These types of technologies are essential support tools for visually impaired people, since they facilitate the use of computers, mobile phones and/or any electronic device. Among the best known are: JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver and Orca.
Vibrating backpacks
Aimed at people with hearing disabilities, vibrating backpacks They offer a unique sensory experience.
These vibrating backpacks are placed on the chest or back and are equipped with sensors that convert the frequencies of the sound in vibrations, allowing users to feel the music or sounds of the environment, enriching the live musical experience. Technology and accessibility company, Aptent, provides Subpac vibrating backpacks and Timmpi.
Eye control systems
These systems allow people with motor disabilities to control electronic devices and communicate through eye movements.
To achieve this, the eye reader It sends an infrared light that, through reflection in the eyes, detects which direction of the screen the person is looking and moves the cursor accordingly, precisely, replacing the computer mouse and keyboard.
Furthermore, the scope of this technology eye check It is not only limited to the use of computers, but also allows you to replace any device that is controlled via infrared remote control, such as TV, air conditioning, and even doors and lights.
Innovations at home
The smart homes They are increasingly implemented, making it easier for people with disabilities to perform a wide variety of tasks.
Devices such as virtual assistants (Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, among others) allow you to control lights, appliances and security systems using voice commands.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and accessibility
Artificial intelligence has opened new frontiers in assistance to people with disabilities.
For example:
- Applications like Microsoft Seeing AI They use the phone’s camera to describe people, texts and objects in real time, providing autonomy to visually impaired people.
- In addition, AI is also used for simultaneous translation of the sign language, facilitating communication between people with hearing disabilities and hearing people.
Removing barriers
There are many technological developments that are erasing barriers for people with disabilities, demonstrating that technology has a transformative power that, when focused on accessibility, has the ability to create a more inclusive and equitable world.
For this reason, continued investment in accessible technologies It is essential to continue developing a truly inclusive society in which all people have the same opportunities.
Subtitling in real time
“Copla”, the latest development from the company Aptent, is an accessible communication platform that, with the help of AI, recognizes the human voice, allowing a real-time subtitling.
This development with automatic subtitles makes it possible for online and in-person events and performing arts shows to be accessible to people with hearing disabilities or people who are learning the language.