New locations tool for blind and partially sighted
App uses voice input
The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) and technology firm what3words have partnered to highlight how inadequate location information remains a significant barrier to independence for blind and partially-sighted people – and how simple it is for businesses to inspire positive change by finding and sharing what3words addresses.
what3words has taken the globe and divided it into a grid of three metre squares, and assigned each square a unique combination of three random words, described as ‘a what3words address’. For example, the three word address for the square at the entrance to the RNIB’s London office is – rooms.herbs.cars.
The system works with voice input, enabling people to easily convey specific locations including those with no street address such as beaches, national parks and bus stops. The user simply speaks the three word addresses aloud.
Robin Spinks, RNIB senior manager inclusive design and innovation, said: “As someone with sight loss, I know from experience that street addresses often don’t provide precise locations. They might take you to the right building but then you’ve got to work out if you’ve come to the right entrance or need to be on the other side of the building entirely.
“Using what3words can help to reduce that anxiety and uncertainty and the extra time saved can be spent catching up with a friend or kicking off a business meeting rather than apologising to them for arriving late.”
Alongside working with the technology sector, RNIB continues to campaign for more inclusive street design so those with sight loss feel confident getting around our towns and cities.
Chris Sheldrick, co-founder and CEO of what3words, added: “It’s been amazing to hear from RNIB how technologies such as what3words can make a huge difference to the day-to-day experience of blind and partially sighted people. As businesses across the UK plan for a return to public events this spring and summer, we’re encouraging them to publicise their three word addresses to give people more ways of finding exactly where they need to be.”
Among the many venues already displaying their what3words address to help customers find them more easily are the 02, Wembley Stadium, Alexandra Palace, University College London, the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland and Arsenal FC’s Emirates Stadium.
what3words is also used by over 85 per cent of emergency services in the UK, and the technology has become a valuable tool, saving dispatchers and responders precious time and resources in emergency situations.
Visit the what3words website here.