Assistive Technology in the Workplace

In the following videos, employees with blindness and low vision describe and demonstrate assistive technology they use in their workplace. Read the descriptions for details of each device, as well as links to learn more about these and other devices available.


Screen reading software

This software allows people with limited or no vision to access a computer by reading text aloud or displaying the text in braille (with a refreshable braille display device). This software is available as part of operating systems (e.g., Narrator for Windows and VoiceOver for Mac) or as add-on software, such as JAWS. It enables a user to fully access a computer, including emails, spreadsheets, navigating the internet, and more.

Computer with JAWS

Email with JAWS

Excel with JAWS

Internet with JAWS


Optical character recognition

A variety of optical character recognition (OCR) systems are available, which scan and read aloud printed text. OrCam is a wearable device that includes OCR technology. OCR is also available as software for the computer and in apps used with smartphones and tablets, such as the KNFB Reader app.

OrCam

KNFB reader


Handheld video magnifier

A portable video magnifier is used to read printed materials, such as mail, labels on products, etc., by offering adjustable magnification and high-contract viewing modes in a compact, lightweight design.

Ruby video magnifier


Full-size video magnifier

A video magnifier provides various viewing modes and magnification levels to make reading hard copy printed materials, such as handwritten notes, newsletters, books, etc., easier during changing viewing situations.

ONXY video magnifier


Seeing AI App

Identifying an object or reading a document can be a challenge for individuals who are blind or have low vision. There are a number of mobile apps available to help complete tasks quickly and accurately. This short video will show features of the Seeing AI app. 

Seeing AI app


Money identifier 

Identifying an object, such as the denomination of money, can be a challenge for individuals who are blind or have low vision. There are a number of devices and mobile apps available to help complete tasks quickly and accurately. 

iBill reader

NatMobile app