Blindphone – opening a new world for visually impaired
Type
Timeline
Braun Prize
submission
Smartphones are essential in today’s world, but their touchscreen reliance makes them challenging for visually impaired users. Despite accessibility features like screen readers, navigation remains complex and unintuitive.
Blindphone is a screen-free, joystick-controlled mobile device designed specifically for blind users. With an ergonomic cylindrical shape, tactile controls, and voice recognition, it enables seamless communication and app navigation. This case study explores the research, design, and testing behind Blindphone, demonstrating how inclusive technology can enhance digital independence.
Aug - Feb 2021/22
Tools
Solidworks
Keyshot
Photoshop
Blindphone
Smartphones have become essential tools for communication, navigation, productivity, and entertainment.
However, most smartphones are designed with a heavy reliance on visual interfaces, making them difficult for visually impaired individuals to use effectively.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 253 million people worldwide live with some form of visual impairment, including 39 million who are completely blind. While screen readers and voice assistants provide some level of accessibility, these solutions often feel like secondary adaptations rather than core design elements.
Blindphone is a device designed specifically for visually impaired users. Unlike traditional smartphones, it eliminates the need for a screen and instead prioritizes tactile navigation, voice control, and ergonomic usability. By introducing a joystick-based control system and a cylindrical form factor, Blindphone offers a more intuitive and accessible way for visually impaired users to interact with digital technology.
Background
From extensive research on platforms like Reddit, Quora, Youtube, accessibility forums, and discussions with visually impaired individuals, several key pain points were identified
Dependence on Touchscreens
Most smartphones are designed for touch-based navigation, which is inaccessible without sight.
Screen readers like VoiceOver (iOS) and TalkBack (Android) exist, but they require complex gestures that can be frustrating to learn and use.
Over-Reliance on Voice Assistants
While voice commands can be helpful, they do not always work in noisy environments.
Privacy concerns arise when using voice commands in public spaces or sensitive situations.
Lack of Tactile Feedback
Modern smartphones have flat, smooth surfaces, making it difficult for visually impaired users to locate essential controls.
Accidental taps and swipes can lead to unintended actions, causing frustration and confusion.
One-Handed Use is Critical
Many visually impaired users carry a cane or hold onto a guide dog, making one-handed phone use essential.
A compact and ergonomic design was preferred over large or complex devices.
understanding
the challenges
Research
Building bridges
Goal
The design process for Blindphone was guided by the goal
of creating a communication device that is fully accessible to visually impaired users.
After conducting research on accessibility challenges, it became evident that traditional smartphones are not optimized for non-visual interaction. This realization shaped the key design decisions that prioritize tactile feedback, ease of use, and independence.
Introducing Blindphone
Design process & solution
Better Ergonomics
Cylindrical Shape
The design process for Blindphone was guided by the goal
of creating a communication device that is fully accessible to visually impaired users.
After conducting research on accessibility challenges, it became evident that traditional smartphones are not optimized for non-visual interaction. This realization shaped the key design decisions that prioritize tactile feedback, ease of use, and independence.
Joystick-Based Navigation System
Since touchscreens are difficult for visually impaired individuals to use,
a joystick was chosen as the primary navigation method.
The joystick provides precise control and replaces the need for complex touch gestures.
Moving the joystick left or right allows users to browse through different applications.
Pressing the joystick selects an application, acting as an “Enter” button.
Moving the joystick forward or backward enables users to navigate within an app, such as scrolling through a contact list in the phone app or switching songs in the music app.
To provide private and clear audio feedback, a small detachable earphone was integrated into the design. The earphone is securely stored inside the device using a magnetic attachment. When needed, users can simply remove the earphone and use it to receive voice-guided navigation, notifications, and phone calls.
This feature ensures that users can interact with their device without having to rely on loud speakerphone audio, which might not always be suitable in public or noisy environments.
The magnetic attachment ensures that the earphone is easily accessible yet securely stored when not in use.
Magnetic Earphone
