by Andreas Findlow
Be My Eyes is a brilliant and very useful app for people living with sight loss. The app can be downloaded to a smart phone or tablet. It can be used both by people living with sight loss and sighted people who wants to volunteer. The app is also available in many languages.; during the set up you will have to choose the primary language, but later on other languages can be selected in the app settings.
What the app does
Once the app has been set up there will be a big button in the middle of the screen when it is open that says “Call a volunteer.” When this button is activated, the app will connect you to a sighted volunteer. The app uses the camera on the back of your smart phone or tablet to let the sighted volunteer see whatever you point the camera towards.
The app can be used for so many things such as helping to locate something that was dropped on the floor, to read cooking instructions, or to help make sure the washing machine is set to the right setting. Yes, the app can be used for almost anything. Whenever you find yourself needing an extra pair of eyes, it is very handy and convenient to have this app at your finger tips.
The app is completely free to download and use. However it is important to remember not to share personal or sensitive information for your own safety. For example, make sure that no passwords, card details, your name or address is visible to the volunteer.
When you end a call in the app you will be given the choice to tell the app whether you had a good experience or if you had problems with your call.
Calling a volunteer can also be initiated through using Siri, the virtual smart assistant on your iPhone or iPad.
Be My Eyes is a fantastic app with a wide array of uses that can make the world around you more accessible and easier to navigate
