Silicon iPhone case aids the visually impaired

The Invisual iPhone case by Critica is unique, having been designed for the blind and visually impaired. It encloses the entire device and features bas-relief buttons that coincide with a modified home page (you'll have to shuffle some icons around first). The coolest thing is that Critica claims it doesn't interfere with the screen's touch sensitivity or performance at all. The high contrast when the backlight is engaged will benefit the visually impaired.

It's just a prototype right now, so no release or pricing information is available. Critica has also stated that a forthcoming application will contribute to its functionality. If we hear any more about this unique case, we'll let you know.

Back in April, AT&T announced the Text Accessibility Plan's (TAP) for iPhone and iPhone 3G, which was designed for deaf users as well as those who are hard of hearing.

[Via Apartment Therapy]

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Source: http://critica.us/product-design/invisual-a-tactile-silicone…

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The Invisual iPhone case by Critica is unique, having been designed for the blind and visually impaired. It encloses the entire device and...

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john russell

On the positive side of things, blind iPhone users get extra long battery life, as they do not need the backlight on.

December 08 2008 at 6:33 PM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down Reply

jenny

this case looks just like a shades case! does anyone have one? im trying to decide which one to buy, and this one looks good. http://www.shadescases.com

thanks to anyone who can help me make up my mind!!

December 08 2008 at 3:04 PM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down Reply

Dale Walker

There are a lot of people who are visually impaired without being totally blind. And there are times when you just want to dial a number, and not have to look at the screen.
With Text to speech and a tactile overlay, it should be possible to use the power of an iPhone without needing to constantly use sight.
I'm hoping to hear more about this - it's exciting enabling technology

December 08 2008 at 2:10 PM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down Reply

required

Daft. There are phones already designed for the visually impaired.

December 08 2008 at 11:21 AM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down Reply

1 reply to required's comment

Binja

I am all for helping the handicapped, but the whole concept of a blind person using an iphone makes about as much sense as the braille buttons on a drive up ATM. It is a nice thought, but it is totally impractical.

December 08 2008 at 11:47 AM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down Reply