Alibaba’s research and development arm, Damo Academy, collaborated with China’s Tsinghua University to introduce the 'Smart Touch' sheet to improve the use of mobile devices by those with vision impairments. The Smart Touch plastic sheet is sensory-enabled, which means that pressing its buttons triggers certain commands, such as "confirm" or "go back."
With the Smart Touch sheet on one's mobile device, shopping becomes a simplified process. Although the Smart Touch is a valuable tool for reducing the amount of clicks needed to browse or make a purchase, it also allows users to text when a phone is held to the ear. This functionality, according to Alibaba, cuts the time needed to complete tasks like taking calls and shopping online by 50%.
As the device is so inexpensive to produce, Alibaba plans to distribute its Smart Touch sheet for free through its brick-and-mortar outlets.
Sensory-Enabled Mobile Buttons
The Alibaba 'Smart Touch' Aids the Visually Impaired
Trend Themes
1. Sensory-enabled Mobile Devices - Incorporating sensory technology in mobile devices has the potential to revolutionize the way the visually impaired use technology and open new markets for low-cost assistive technology.
2. Simplified User Interfaces - Developing simplified user interfaces can improve the accessibility and ease-of-use for individuals with disabilities while also providing a better experience for all users.
3. Low-cost Assistive Technology - Producing low-cost assistive technology can make these tools more accessible to a wider range of individuals while also providing new market opportunities for businesses.
Industry Implications
1. Mobile Devices Industry - The mobile devices industry can create new product lines specifically designed for the visually impaired using sensory technology.
2. Accessibility Technology Industry - The accessibility technology industry can incorporate sensory technology and simplified user interfaces to create new, innovative tools for individuals with disabilities.
3. Brick-and-mortar Retail Industry - The brick-and-mortar retail industry can distribute low-cost, sensory-enabled assistive technology for individuals with disabilities through their physical stores to reach a wider audience.