New Knfb Mobile, which supports Nokia N82 smartphone, may transform the world of visually disabled. Nokia, filed a patent to deliver first of its kind mobile that incorporates a character recognition software and conjures high quality text-to-speech capability. Not only that, but it will be the fastest device to do that. It can read most printed documents like letters, memos, book-pages, address labels, package information, and instructions and simultaneously displays each sentence visually and highlights each word as it reads. Besides storage capability of thousands of pages on a flash memory, it supports external flash memory cards, and can receive and transfer text files to a computers or Braille note takers. The enhanced N82 also includes a 5-megapixel autofocus camera. According to Dr. Marc Maurer, President of the National Federation of the Blind:
The knfbREADER Mobile will allow the blind unprecedented access to the printed word, affording a level of flexibility and capability never before available. No other device in the history of technology has provided such portability and quick access to print materials. The NFB promotes equal opportunity for the blind, and this Reader will make blind people dramatically more independent. The result will be better performance at work, at school, at home, and everywhere else we go. This Reader will substantially improve the quality of life for the growing number of blind people and people who are losing vision, including seniors.
However, Nokia phone costs about $500 and then the software, which is whopping $1,595, makes it expensive. Not necessarily for blinds only, it also works as regular mobile with all usual functions like built-in GPS receiver, wi-fi connectivity, a 2GB MicroSD and card. It supports both mobile speak and talks and is compatible with Wayfinder Access. Makers are expecting a warm welcome for this incredibly smart phone. With all that, I think, it can be anyone’s choice.
Via: GearLog
