illumie is a project out of Europe and ran through Sopra Steria, a software developer. It was part of the House of Creative Denmark at South By Southwest in Austin last week. The event focused on Danish creators in film, technology and other platforms.
The creators behind illumie say they hope to bridge the gap between using a mobility aid and understanding what’s actually out in the world around people who have trouble seeing.
What was the initial reason to develop illumie?
Initially, illumie started with Magic Leap, a device similar to a VR headset. It worked through, “light detection and ranging” or LiDar. In real-time, it mapped the world around the user. It then gives audio feedback on what it saw, but after receiving feedback from the Norwegian Association for the Blind, illumie changed its device.
Ingri Skogsrød, one of the creators behind illumie said that, “they liked the functionality, loved it, but hated the hardware.” Users said they, “want as little stuff as possible, don’t want to have to drag it with us, charge it, learn how to use it.”
How does it work?
That’s how it got to where it is now. The mobile shield is an app that will be available straight on smartphones. It uses augmented reality to help people navigate the world. The user would wear the phone around their neck, and then as they move, the app explains to the user where and what’s in front of them.
What are the future plans for illumie?
illumie is also testing out haptic feedback devices. They would provide the audio cues through bone conduction, leaving the user’s ears unblocked and able to hear the environment clearly around them.
When is illumie available?
illumie’s work is still in the testing phase right now. You can sign up for the pilot test on its website.
