Amazon has created a new feature for its Echo Show devices which will help blind and visually impaired users. Now Amazon Echo Show devices will be able to identify items that users hold in front of the camera, which is made possible by computer vision and machine learning working with the device's camera in order to identify items.
Amazon has indicated that the new feature was created by collaborating with employees who are blind. Amazon also worked in conjunction with the Vista Center for the Blink to test, develop and research the new accessibility tool.
The new feature can be accessed by users asking, "Alexa, what am a holding?" or a similar phrase that will cue the system to examine an object. Users will also be able to receive help from Alexa when putting items back.
Accessibility-Focused Smart Assistant Tools
Amazon Echo Show Devices Can Identify Items
Trend Themes
1. Computer Vision - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop advanced computer vision technology to enable identification of objects for visually impaired individuals.
2. Machine Learning - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Implement machine learning algorithms to improve the accuracy and reliability of object identification for accessibility-focused smart assistant tools.
3. Assistive Technology - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create new assistive technology solutions that leverage smart assistant devices to enhance accessibility for individuals with visual impairments.
Industry Implications
1. Consumer Electronics - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Integrate accessibility features into consumer electronic devices, such as smart assistants, to cater to a wider range of users.
2. Healthcare - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Apply computer vision and machine learning technologies in healthcare settings to assist visually impaired individuals in identifying medical equipment and supplies.
3. E-commerce - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop e-commerce platforms with built-in object identification capabilities to provide a more inclusive shopping experience for visually impaired consumers.