Blappy is an innovative new smartphone messaging app that is designed to make it a little easier for people suffering from different degrees of auditory and visual disabilities to go about communicating with other people by making use of different sensory inputs and outputs.
Currently only available for Android devices, the Blappy messaging app is capable of converting text messages into voice and vice-versa, with users also given the ability to attach high-quality images. The screen also has an easy-to-use zoom feature that will help people with visual disabilities.
Carried out as part of a program run by the Charles III University of Madrid, this messaging app is a great example of existing technologies used to augment and ease the day-to-day lifestyle and communication needs of people with visual and auditory impairments.
Multimodal Messaging Apps
The Blappy App is Designed For People Living With Certain Disabilities
Trend Themes
1. Multimodal Messaging - Messaging apps will incorporate different sensory inputs and outputs.
2. Accessibility Technologies - Technologies will focus on easing the day-to-day lifestyle and communication needs of people with disabilities.
3. Assistive Communication - Communication tools will help people with visual and auditory impairments to go about daily routines.
Industry Implications
1. Telecommunications - Innovative messaging apps will create new opportunities for telecom companies to serve customers with disabilities.
2. Healthcare - Assistive communication tools will be an important segment of healthcare technology, and other health apps may adapt to to accommodate users with disabilities.
3. Education - Multimodal messaging apps with accessibility features will help facilitate education for individuals with visual and auditory impairments.