What is Be My Eyes?
Be My Eyes is an innovative mobile application designed to connect visually impaired individuals with sighted volunteers through live video calls. Launched in 2015, the app addresses the everyday challenges faced by those who are blind or have low vision by providing immediate visual assistance from a global community of volunteers. Users can request help for a variety of tasks, such as reading labels, distinguishing colors, navigating unfamiliar environments, or even troubleshooting technical issues. The app is user-friendly and free, making it accessible to anyone who needs assistance. Once a user initiates a help request, the app matches them with a volunteer who can see and provide the necessary guidance through their smartphone camera. This unique platform not only empowers visually impaired users by giving them quick access to help but also fosters a sense of community and connection among users and volunteers alike. By bridging the gap between sighted and non-sighted individuals, Be My Eyes enhances independence and confidence for those who rely on it.
Features
- Live Video Assistance: Connects users with volunteers via real-time video calls for immediate help.
- Global Volunteer Network: Access to a vast community of volunteers from around the world, ensuring quick assistance.
- Specialized Help: Option to connect with specific organizations, such as the Microsoft Specialization Program, for expert support.
- User-Friendly Interface: Simple and intuitive design that makes it easy for users to request help.
- Language Support: The app supports multiple languages, making it accessible to a diverse user base.
Advantages
- Increased Independence: Empowers visually impaired individuals to perform tasks they might otherwise struggle with alone.
- Immediate Support: Provides quick assistance, reducing the time needed to solve everyday challenges.
- Community Engagement: Fosters a sense of connection and community among users and volunteers.
- Free to Use: The application is completely free, making it accessible to anyone in need.
- Variety of Assistance: Users can seek help for a wide range of tasks, enhancing daily living experiences.
TL;DR
Be My Eyes is a mobile app that connects visually impaired users with sighted volunteers for real-time visual assistance through video calls.
FAQs
How does Be My Eyes work?
Be My Eyes allows visually impaired users to request help through the app, which connects them with sighted volunteers via live video calls for immediate assistance.
Is there a cost to use Be My Eyes?
No, Be My Eyes is completely free for both users and volunteers.
What types of tasks can I get help with?
You can get help with a variety of tasks, including reading labels, identifying objects, navigating spaces, and troubleshooting technical issues.
How do I become a volunteer?
To become a volunteer, simply download the Be My Eyes app, create an account, and you will be available to assist users when they need help.
What if I can’t assist when called upon?
If you are unable to assist at the time of a call, you can simply decline, and the app will connect the user to another available volunteer.
