National Trust trials pioneering technology to aid blind and partially sighted people
The National Trust are trialling the new Navi Lens technology at Saltram in Plymouth, a digital navigation aid designed for partially sighted visitors.
The test will run until 25 October and The technology is already in use on transport systems across Spain and parts of the USA and UK.
NaviLens is a free app which can help give greater independence and freedom for users to navigate their way around places with less or even no aid.
The trial is funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and designed for people who are partially sighted, aiming to improve access to heritage and nature at Saltram.
Natalie Haly, project manager for the National Trust at Saltram says: “This trial is incredibly exciting as it marks a first for the National Trust, and we are thrilled that it’s happening right here in Plymouth.
“It allows us to explore how this innovative technology can enhance our visitors’ access to heritage and nature.
“This initiative is a significant step in our ongoing journey to ensure everyone feels truly welcome at Saltram.”
The app uses QR-style codes that users can detect on their phones and when users point their phones in the general direction the NaviLens app picks up the codes in the vicinity.
Each code has information loaded onto it, which is spoken out loud on the user’s phone, offering directions and warnings, and in this context, providing navigational and interpretative content relevant to Saltram.
A spokesperson for NaviLens says: “NaviLens is thrilled to work with the National Trust at Saltram to enhance the visitor experience for those who are blind or partially sighted. By integrating NaviLens’ innovative technology in this pilot, we are helping to make Saltram’s rich history, architecture, and grounds accessible to everyone.”
“NaviLens codes can be scanned from much further away than regular codes and can be detected from wide angles and while on the move. Additionally, the information is automatically translated into 37 different languages, benefiting global visitors as well.”
During the trial of the NaviLens technology, the RNIB user group expressed their enthusiasm and positive feedback. Both participants felt more confident and appreciated the reduced dependency on others for information, highlighting the potential of NaviLens to enhance their independence.