Wednesday, July 16, 2014

The Finger Reader

Now this is one invention I am super excited about. Since I came across a news article about it a few weeks ago, I've been thinking of all the ways I could use it and how beneficial it would be to the vision impaired.

The FingerReader is a prototype developed by MIT and is a ring which reads printed text. It really is incredible. Personally, I despise using any magnifiers in public, so I struggle to read things or ask for help. My mind has come up with countless uses for the FingerReader:

  • I could actually read the menu for once, instead of making it up!
  • I could actually read the price on tags when shopping, especially clothes, so no excuses for spending too much money!
  • When I go to sign various forms, I could read through the document myself instead of relying on a dodgy person who really just wants my signature!
  • I could tell who the mail is for, instead of opening everyone's mail!
  • And the list goes on....
Personally, I don't find magnifiers useful for the above situations. I find that they are usually large, draw attention and time consuming as it takes time to focus on what I'm trying to read. 

I look forward to the progress of the FIngerReader and really hope it come to fruition in the near future.

Check out the MIT website.



3 comments:

  1. Oh that's really great. I had read that a finger reader scans the text and gives you an audio feedback. Is that how it works?
    My father's vision is degrading with time and there is nothing that can be done about it. And he gets really upset about the fact that he can't read anymore. When I consulted a doctor at a famous eye clinic he suggested me about this device. So how do you rate this device, should I buy it?

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  2. Hi Paul,
    I haven't tried this device, as I understand it's still just a prototype and not available for purchase.
    I have been told by another reader about a similar pen that reads aloud and I am currently waiting for this to be delivered. Once I've got it and given it a go I will put up a post about it.
    Chrissy :)

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  3. I also have stargardt's, and this would be so awesome! You nailed it with the menu, and price tags, etc!

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