Visual impairment service
Contents
Apps that support everyday independence
Apps can help with everyday tasks. Some are made specifically for people with visual impairments, while others include accessibility features that may be useful.
When using these apps, keep in mind:
- AI features are not always accurate and can make mistakes
- do not rely on AI tools in an emergency. Always get direct help or contact emergency services
- most apps need mobile data or Wi-Fi to work properly
Useful apps
Be my eyes
Be my eyes is a free app that connects people with visual impairments to volunteers or company support teams through live video calls, they can help with everyday visual tasks.
Seeing AI
A free app that uses AI to describe your surroundings, read text and identify objects or colours. You can download Seeing AI on iOS and Android.
Google Gemini AI
Google Gemini AI app describes what your camera is viewing, reads text aloud, and answers questions about the world around you. It can help you access information more independently.
Ally
Ally is an AI assistant that can read text aloud, identify objects and answer questions by using your phones camera, it is free to use for basic features.
Speaking email
A paid app that reads your emails aloud. It can help if you have difficulty using other accessibility features to manage your inbox. Speaking email is available on both iOS and Android.
Dolphin EasyReader
Dolphin EasyReader gives you access to audiobooks through RNIB Reading Services, making reading easier for people with sight loss.
Alexa
Using the Alexa app with an Alexa-enabled device allows you to access RNIB audiobooks, control smart lights, check the time, set reminders, and get news or weather updates using simple voice commands.
Chat GPT
Chat GPT is an AI tool that can provide spoken responses and help with writing, reading and summarising content. It can also answer questions through voice or screen reader-friendly text. Free for basic features.
You can download Chat GPT on iOS and Google Play.
Humanware magnifier app
The explorē magnifier app turns your smartphone into digital magnifier using the phones camera, letting you enlarge text and images with simple zoom and brightness controls.
You can download these on the HumanWare explorē Magnifier App for iOS or HumanWare explorē Magnifier for Android.
Last updated 12 March 2026