UK company OwnFone has launched what it calls the world’s first phone which has braille on the keys, making the device usable by the blind. Speaking to the BBC, OwnFone’s Tom Sunderland said although there have been concept braille phones in the past, this is the first to actually go on sale. What’s more, OwnFone uses 3D printing to keep the costs down, so the phone starts at a mere £60/$100 to buy.
Touchscreens may have kicked-off a mobile computing revolution, but they didn't do much for the visually impaired. OwnFone, which launched a customizable mobile phone for kids and the elderly back in 2012, is now offering its stripped-down handset with braille or raised text contact buttons. The 3D-printed hardware lets you select up to four contacts that can be assigned to the device, making it ideal for emergencies and people who need to stay in touch with family or carers on a regular basis. It's available right now for a base price of £60, plus an additional monthly charge of between £7.50 and £15.00 per month -- depending on how much call time you want or need.
OwnFone has been around since 2012, and the phone was initially only available in the UK and Northern Ireland, but in early April, a version for Australia was also launched. It’s great to see small firms like OwnFone filling a niche, and making good use of the advancements in 3D printing.
Buyers can order the phone through the company’s own website, where the design can be customized, right down to including a picture of your own choice on the rear panel. It’s also possible to add a dedicated key for calling emergency services.
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