The first wearable for the visually impaired has been created by a new South Korean start-up company in the form of the Dot braille smartwatch.
The braille smartwatch is equipped with four sets of six dots, which raise to produce four braille characters at a time informing the wearer of information, time, notifications and more.
Innovative Features of the Dot Braille Smartwatch
The Dot braille smartwatch stands out due to its unique ability to convey information through tactile feedback. Unlike traditional smartwatches that rely on visual displays, the Dot uses braille to communicate with its users. This feature is particularly beneficial for the visually impaired, as it allows them to receive messages, notifications, and other important information directly on their wrist without needing auditory assistance.
The device’s four sets of six dots can dynamically change to display different braille characters, enabling users to read text messages, check the time, and even interact with various applications. This innovation not only enhances accessibility but also promotes independence among visually impaired individuals. For example, a user can receive a text message from a friend and read it discreetly without needing to use a screen reader or other assistive technology.
Funding and Development
Dot has already managed to raise $100,000 from the ActnerLab accelerator and an additional $500,000 from the South Korean government’s Tech Incubator Program for Startups. This significant financial backing has allowed the company to focus on refining the technology and preparing for mass production. Co-founder and CEO, Eric Ju Yoon Kim, explains:
Until now, if you got a message on iOS from your girlfriend, for example, you had to listen to Siri read it to you in that voice, which is impersonal. Wouldn’t you rather read it yourself and hear your girlfriend’s voice saying it in your head?
Kim’s statement highlights the personal touch that the Dot braille smartwatch brings to communication. By allowing users to read messages in braille, the device provides a more intimate and personal experience compared to auditory methods.
The Dot braille smartwatch is expected to be made available during December throughout the US and is expected to be priced at around $300. This price point makes it relatively affordable compared to other high-tech assistive devices, potentially increasing its accessibility to a broader audience.
Impact on the Visually Impaired Community
The introduction of the Dot braille smartwatch marks a significant milestone in assistive technology for the visually impaired. Traditional braille devices are often bulky and expensive, limiting their accessibility. The Dot smartwatch, however, is compact, stylish, and designed to be worn like any other smartwatch, making it a more practical and appealing option.
Moreover, the Dot smartwatch can serve as a gateway to further technological advancements in the field of accessibility. As more companies recognize the importance of inclusive design, we can expect to see a broader range of innovative products that cater to the needs of individuals with disabilities.
For instance, future iterations of the Dot smartwatch could include additional features such as GPS navigation, health monitoring, and integration with other smart devices. These enhancements would further empower visually impaired individuals, allowing them to navigate their environments more independently and stay connected with the world around them.
As more information becomes available, we will keep you updated as always. For more details in the meantime, jump over to the official Dot website here.
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