[NJTechDiv] Improved Captioning Technology for Visually Impaired

[Steve Cook]

Visually impaired accessible technology - BingNews - Tuesday, November 17, 2020 at 3:57 PM


Improved Captioning Technology for Visually Impaired


WINNETKA, Ill., Nov. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Microsoft recently unveiled new artificial intelligence image captioning as part of Seeing AI (artificial intelligence), a free camera app for blind and visually impaired users. 

As distance learning experts for the past 100 years, Illinois-based Hadley serves those with vision loss - across the country and internationally - by providing services at no cost. Hadley's practical help is offered through online audio and video-based, professionally-staffed tutorials including a workshop series on Microsoft's Seeing AI, which can be used on iPhones and iPads to audibly read text, identify people, and define objects and surroundings. The new captioning technology for Seeing AI can now describe a range of images as accurately as humans do.

"This is a real game changer for those of us who have a hard time seeing images and faces," says Douglas Walker, Hadley's director of Research and Development and assistive technology expert. "Up to this point, those with vision impairments had to rely on voice dictation features on their smart devices and computers. The new image captioning features for Seeing AI helps them browse through social media pictures and messages, making the visual world much more accessible for those with vision loss." 

Hadley's Seeing AI tutorials, and other technology instructional classes, remain among the most popular offerings available through the newly designed Hadley.edu, which was built on many months of research and development work based on the needs, wants and desires of visually impaired adults. 

At the core of the new Hadley.edu is a highly personalized approach. Visitors are invited to create their own personal account and then, after selecting contrast and font color, text sizes and audio to their liking, are offered different learning avenues including Daily Living, Adjusting to Vision Loss, Recreation, Braille and Technology, such as Seeing AI. During their learning experience, every page has a help icon which connects users directly to a live topic expert team member, assuring that Hadley is there each step of the way.

About Hadley

The mission of Hadley is to create personalized learning opportunities that empower those with vision loss to thrive --- at home, at work and in their communities. A 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation, Hadley relies on contributions from individuals, foundations, and corporations to fund its programs. Watch our videos to learn more about our students, programs and donors by visiting www.hadley.edu <http://www.hadley.edu> 

Contact: Joan Jaeger
Press at Hadley.edu <mailto:Press at Hadley.edu> 
847-784-2751

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SOURCE Hadley

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