Innovative wireless braille keyboard helps people with vision impairments use phones and tablets

Bridging the learning curve in making assistive technology easier for blind and partially sighted people, the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) has launched Hable One.

Hable One is a pocket-friendly braille keyboard device that can connect to any iOS or Android smartphone or tablet through Bluetooth. It uses a selection of braille key combinations to help users navigate their mobile or tablet.

The product, which was launched in conjunction with Hable One, is easy to use and requires no installation, making it ideal for adults and children with sight loss. Additional features include a combination of six dot braille key entry to make typing easier for blind and partially sighted people.

RNIB Senior Retail Products Manager Jennie Mather said: “We’re very excited to be working with Hable One as we believe this wireless braille keyboard is a game-changer. New tech such as Hable One really demonstrates how technology can play a vital role in increasing independence for blind and partially sighted adults and children.”

The innovative device allows users to leave their mobile or tablet in their pocket or bag and use Hable One to write a message, navigate an app, or post on social media. It can also be used in conjunction with VoiceOver or TalkBack.

David from Oxford has an 11-year-old son, Daniel, who is registered blind.

David said: “We’re hugely impressed with Hable One. The product is user-friendly to a young blind user and even to a sighted user like me. It’s easy to use and enables Daniel to do his homework up to 50 per cent faster. Gestures like being able to play or pause by holding braille ‘P’ is a huge improvement.”

Daniel added: “I like that it doesn’t need to be near my iPhone, it’s like magic. Nearly every day after school, I use Hable One to play games or do my homework.”

Co-Founder of Hable One Ayushman Talwar commented: “We are pleased to partner with RNIB and offer blind and partially sighted people more accessible technology. My grandfather had sight loss which inspired us to create Hable One and highlight the importance of making assistive technology easier for people of all ages and disabilities.”

Hable One is available to buy from £239 ex VAT, £286.80 inc. VAT here.