## 21st Century White Cane Technology
In the quest for improved technology accessibility, London’s WeWalk is refining the traditional white cane used by the visually impaired. While visually similar to a standard folding cane, the Smartcane 2 and Smartcane+ 2, priced at $850 and $1,150 respectively, boast advanced features.
### The Smartcane: Upgraded Accessibility
The Smartcane+ 2’s standout feature is its voice-controlled assistant, an essential tool for visually impaired individuals on-the-go. Capable of detecting obstacles at ground level and overhead, the system provides ample protection during navigation.
The Smartcane connects wirelessly to iPhone/Android smartphones, offering walking directions via an onboard speaker straight from the cane. Its handle buttons exercise a tactile interaction with the phone, bolstering the user experience.
## Glidance: An Autonomous Mobility Aid
Washington-based startup Glidance introduces Glide, a robotic “self-guided mobility aid,” priced at $1,500 [$1,799 with an annual subscription.] Still in its soft launch phase, this system leverages two stereo-depth cameras for sophisticated object detection, ensuring users are alerted when they approach potential hazards including doors, elevators, stairs, or curbs. Safety is further enhanced by a lock mechanism that activates at intersections to prevent accidents.
Glidance, having raised a $1.5 million pre-seed, plans to commence shipping their product on successful closure of their $5 million seed round in the near future.
Fonte original: Leia a matéria completa no TechCrunch
