Assistive Technology Roundup: August 2025 Update
- jaciec
- Aug 5
- 2 min read
As always, First Aid for the Blind is staying ahead of the game when it comes to assistive devices and the technological advancements that power them. Read on for a list of tech updates that are important to the blind and low-vision community.
Live AI on Meta Ray-Bans
The new Live AI feature on Meta’s Ray-Ban Smart Glasses is a breakthrough for blind users, offering real-time descriptions of the world without needing to snap photos or navigate touchscreens. Just say, “Hey Meta, Live AI?” and the glasses switch to live video feed interpretation, meaning the AI can react and engage with you in the moment.
Unlike traditional apps that require a picture, a wait, and a response, Live AI gives you hands-free, fluid interaction. You can ask follow-up questions, identify objects, read signs or labels, and get scene summaries all while staying in motion. It’s a more natural, conversational experience that keeps you connected to your environment in real-time.
Starting at $299, these stylish smart glasses pair with the Meta View app and deliver discreet audio through open-ear speakers. Please note that this service is rolling out to customers and you may need to enable Early Access in the Meta AI app settings for your Ray Bans.
To read FAFTB's review of the Meta Ray-Ban Smart Glasses, click here.
Also, Meta recently announced a partnership with Oakley to add their AI to those glasses, which should have better battery life and a higher-resolution camera in the frames.
Speakaboo: Ask First, Snap Second
Speakaboo makes getting scene descriptions fast and intuitive, perfect for blind users who want answers without hassle. What sets it apart? You can ask your question before taking the photo. For example, you can ask “What’s on this shelf?” before snapping the picture so the scene description is more focused on the information you are seeking. The AI analyzes the image with your question in mind, delivering a focused, relevant answer instead of a vague scene summary.
This “question-first” approach saves time and frustration. It works great for exploring new spaces, identifying cluttered areas, or figuring out what’s changed in a familiar room. It’s quick, voice-friendly, free, and available on iOS and Android. Speakaboo turns your camera into a more helpful assistant - one that listens to what you actually want to know.
Glide Device Delayed Until Spring 2026
The team behind the highly anticipated Glide mobility tool - a smart device designed to detect obstacles and guide blind users using haptic feedback - has announced a delay in production. Originally expected in late 2025, manufacturing has been pushed to spring 2026 due to supply chain issues and refinements in design.
Early testers have praised Glide’s compact size and intuitive feedback, and the company says it’s committed to ensuring the final product meets high standards before release. Preorders remain open, and updates will continue as the new launch window approaches. FAFTB trainers will be among the first users of the device, and we are excited to give it a go!