It’s not often we see a product targeted to two such diverse audiences as the visually impaired and distracted drivers. But the Ray GO Bluetooth remote device offers interesting advantages to both, with hand- and eye-free smartphone control.

The Ray GO uses Bluetooth® low energy technology to control a range of common smartphone applications with a simple raised thumb selection and voice interaction—there’s no need to see the screen. Ray Go clips onto a cane or guide dog leash—even onto a steering wheel—for easy thumb access, leaving both hands free for safety. The program filters regularly used smartphone apps through its software, stripping the apps down so users can perform simple tasks using only the four raised directional arrows and an OK button and with minimal audio output. The company believes that the device reduces visual, manual, and cognitive distraction by giving drivers—and visually impaired individuals navigating outdoors—only the information they absolutely need.

For improved safety, the device also has built-in motion sensors that identify falls and emergency situations, and that pause activity while a driver makes a turn. And Bluetooth allows the Ray GO to communicate effortlessly with nearly any smartphone, and with long battery life.

Ray GO is available for pre-order, with final testing planned for summer 2015, but the app can be downloaded from GooglePlay and the iOS app store. Products will be delivered in September 2015 for Android users, while iOS users will be able to use the hardware starting in December.

(Credit: Nanci Taplett)