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Artificial intelligence: the visual impairment use case

November 10, 2026 · 19 min

Show notes

The debate over the benefits and pitfalls of smart glasses has played out in many arenas, including in Parliament. These wearable devices often contain a built-in camera, microphone and speakers, allowing users to take photos, record video, make calls, and use AI to describe or read aloud what is in front of the user.

On In Touch, we weigh valid concerns about the misuse against the potential for blind and partially sighted people. We also consider the wider benefits and pitfalls of artificial intellegence for people with a visual impairment, from navigation to describing menus, and tips on how to make the most of this still-emerging technology.

Presenter: Peter White Producer: Beth Hemmings Production Coordinator: Helen Surtees

Website image description: Peter White sits smiling in the centre of the image, wearing a dark green jumper. Above Peter's head is the BBC logo (three individual white squares house each of the three letters). Bottom centre and overlaying the image are the words "In Touch"; and the Radio 4 logo (the word Radio in a bold white font, with the number 4 inside a white circle). The background is a bright mid-blue with two rectangles angled diagonally to the right. Both are behind Peter, one of a darker blue and the other is a lighter blue.’

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