Cell phones in Stockholm help navigate the blind

Great piece at Computerworld this morning on how mobile technology is helping the blind. Mobile Sorcery AB in Sweden developed custom software for Nokia 6300 phones that integrates with GPS via Bluetooth to keep wires to a minimum. The navigation software was developed by Astando AB, another Swedish company.

Sight impaired users receive directions and more importantly, voice cues that provide ‘early warning’ information in advance of turns or obstacles. The system isn’t perfect yet but preliminary testing shows promise. The approach is just part of a multi-faceted project called Stockholm’s Project of Easy Access; something I’d love to see when completed, no pun intended.