Ever thought about not being able to see? A perspective on social innovation and inclusivity

For my first reflection paper, I was curious about social innovations which impact people’s everyday life in a way we cannot fully grasp. During the research phase, I realised how often we overlook the privileges that come naturally to us, such as the ability to see.

It is a fundamental aspect of our existence that we take for granted, scarcely imagining life without it. This realisation led me to explore a technology designed to bridge the gap for those who face life from a different perspective — those who are visually impaired. The product that caught my attention is OrCam MyEye.

OrCam MyEye is an innovative wearable device designed for visually impaired and blind individuals. It attaches to the wearer’s glasses and utilizes advanced artificial intelligence to interpret visual information, which is then conveyed audibly. This technology can recognize faces, identify products, read texts from any surface, and even interpret public transportation signs, thus enabling users to navigate their environment with a high level of independence.

This device exemplifies social innovation by addressing a critical need — enhancing the quality of life for individuals with visual impairments. It acknowledges the challenges they face daily and offers a solution that empowers them to engage more fully with their surroundings and society at large. The technology behind OrCam MyEye is symboling hope for many people, illustrating how innovations can lead to more inclusive societies.

Reflecting on OrCam MyEye, its impact is multifaceted. On a personal level, it significantly enhances the autonomy and confidence of visually impaired individuals, allowing them to perform tasks that many of us would consider normal without assistance. Socially, it fosters inclusivity, breaking down barriers that often exclude those with disabilities from fully participating in community life.

However, despite its profound potential, OrCam MyEye is not without its challenges. One issue is its cost. Its accessibility is limited by a probably high price point (no price point found on the website, but as the technology is so advanced I imagine it being high), which can be prohibitive for many who would benefit most from its capabilities. Moreover, this is only a product for “privileged” people. About >35 million people are blind worldwide. But I am sure that only a small percentage are able to access such a product any time soon.

In reflecting on OrCam MyEye, I have come to appreciate the profound impact that thoughtful social innovations can have on individuals and society. Innovations like OrCam MyEye serve as a reminder of the potential for technology to transform lives, not by replacing human capabilities but by enhancing our ability to connect with one another, regardless of our physical limitations.