In April, Access Technology Specialist Jim Denham of the Council presented a virtual class that showcased three apps that can help people who are blind or low vision use their phones to read printed text. Each app has its own strengths and drawbacks, and the class covered how each one can be used effectively in real-world situations.
Mobile reading apps enable smartphone users who are blind or low vision to access printed text. When you point your phone’s camera at some printed text, such as a restaurant menu or a sign, the app can read the text aloud. To use most of these apps, you must have the phone’s built-in accessibility features, like a screen reader, turned on. All three of the apps highlighted during the class are free and are available on both Android and iPhones.
Seeing AI, developed by Microsoft, is perfect for quickly reading currency or signs with its simple point-and-read interface.
Envision has a point-and-read option as well, but it also has several other options, including their Envision Glasses (a separate purchase) and the Envision Ally AI app.
Be My Eyes is a fully AI-powered option. This app will accurately read aloud any text that you take a picture of.
All three of these apps excel in some way, with some featuring simplicity and ease of use and others prioritizing accuracy. The best choice for you depends on your own needs and how you plan to use the app.
The Council offers virtual access technology classes once a quarter to teach people new skills for using their phones, computers, tablets and other devices. These classes cannot, however, cover every detail. If you’d like to explore mobile reading apps or other access technology skills in greater depth, consider meeting with Jim for a one-on-one access technology training session. Contact us at [email protected] or 608-255-1166, or fill out Vision Services Request Form on our website.