The Squibble is a Tactile Interactive Device That Syncs with Smartphones
Amelia Roblin — January 11, 2014 — Tech
References: andrewmitchelldesign
Smartphone technology is hardly accessible to those who are visually impaired; this concept for the Squibble Portable Braille Interface lets people suffering from blindness take advantage of the wealth of information at their fingertips.
Andrew Mitchell's design takes dimensions similar to those of a mobile phone, but it's thicker in the middle for better tangibility and to accommodate the mechanisms inside. The Squibble translates text into embossed symbols thanks to rows and rows of pins that rise beneath the elastic surface.
For those with some degree of sight, there's an option to illuminate these points with LEDs. The Squibble slides out to provide a few actual buttons, but otherwise, emails, maps and social media notifications can be accessed by touch when the device has been connected to a cell or a laptop via bluetooth.
Andrew Mitchell's design takes dimensions similar to those of a mobile phone, but it's thicker in the middle for better tangibility and to accommodate the mechanisms inside. The Squibble translates text into embossed symbols thanks to rows and rows of pins that rise beneath the elastic surface.
For those with some degree of sight, there's an option to illuminate these points with LEDs. The Squibble slides out to provide a few actual buttons, but otherwise, emails, maps and social media notifications can be accessed by touch when the device has been connected to a cell or a laptop via bluetooth.
Trend Themes
1. Smartphone Accessibility for Visually Impaired - The Squibble promotes accessibility for those who are visually impaired through the use of smartphones.
2. Digital Braille Interface - The Squibble's design offers a new technology for translating digital text into embossed symbols.
3. Tactile Interactive Devices - There is an increasing demand for tactile interactive devices like the Squibble that can be used by those who are visually impaired.
Industry Implications
1. Assistive Technology - The Squibble represents the growth of assistive technology for those who are visually impaired.
2. Consumer Electronics - Consumer electronic companies have an opportunity to develop and market products like the Squibble that promotes accessibility for all customers.
3. Healthcare - The healthcare industry can use tactile interactive devices like the Squibble to improve the quality of life and information available to those who are visually impaired.
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