White sugarcane for the 21st century While many tech companies are making strides to make technology more accessible to the blind and visually impaired, Canes hasn't benefited much from these advances.
Born in London WeWalk A more traditional approach to white sugar cane. Beyond the larger handle, there isn't much visual difference between the company's product and a standard folding cane.
The company currently offers two models: the $850 Smartcane 2 and the $1,150 Smartcane+ 2. The main difference between the levels is the final inclusion of a voice-controlled assistant — an invaluable tool for a visually impaired person on the go. In addition to detecting ground-level obstacles, The system allows detection of potential obstacles.
The system wirelessly connects users to an iPhone/Android smartphone for walking directions directly from the cane via the onboard speaker. The buttons on the handle can also be used to communicate directly with the phone, bringing touchless smartphones.
Parked on the Washington state-based CES show floor. A snap A newer role on the scene. The startup describes its product, Glide, as an “autonomous, self-guided mobility aid,” or simply a robot. rather than a more standardized form factor; The Glide has a handle attached to the wheeled base.
The $1,500 system ($1,799 with an annual subscription) is currently in soft launch mode after initial pre-orders. The system uses a more technically advanced approach, with a pair of stereo-depth cameras. In addition to avoiding obstacles, doors, elevator When approaching an intersection or stairs, the user will be locked temporarily.
The company said that the product has been shipped for about a year. Glidance has raised $1.5 million in pre-seed funding and is currently in the process of closing a $5 million seed round.