Technology helps in every aspect of our lives nowadays. We use Google Maps to navigate, we use Facebook to ask for dinner recommendations. We have an AI assistant in our homes to turn the TV on or play music at the sound of our voices. But, some people are trying to use this technology to help people who really need it. That’s why Kursat Ceylan invented the smart cane.
Kursat is a visually impaired engineer and CEO of Young Guru Academy. He co-founded the non-profit organisation, which is the brains behind WeWalk. But, having faced the challenges of being blind himself, Kursat knew he wanted to use AI technology to help people like himself.
“In these days, we are talking about flying cars, but these people have been using just a plain stick. As a blind person, when I am at the Metro station, I don’t know which is my exit… I don’t know which bus is approaching… which stores are around me. That kind of information can be provided with the WeWalk,” he explained.
The smart cane uses technology that we interact with every day but repurposes it to help. It includes voice controls, a voice assistant, and sensors to warn of obstacles at chest level. Clearly normal canes cannot perform these functions, so the smart cane has found a niche in the market.
Kursat knew the problems he faced and came up with a creative solution. However, you’ll need to get saving, as the WeWalk smart cane is available for $500.
“To me, WeWalk represents the end of an era and the start of a new one,” says user Duygu Kayaman. It could change everything for blind people across the world.
Let us know what you think of this technological marvel in the comments. It’s like something out of a science fiction movie! Don’t forget to share with your friends and family, too.
