What is Be My Eyes?
Be My Eyes is a revolutionary accessibility tool that connects blind and low-vision individuals with sighted volunteers and AI-powered virtual assistants to help them navigate the world more independently. Whether identifying objects, reading labels, troubleshooting devices, or locating items, Be My Eyes offers real-time support through live video calls.
The app also includes a feature called “Virtual Volunteer,” powered by OpenAI, which provides immediate AI responses to visual queries, eliminating the wait time for a human connection. This makes Be My Eyes a powerful blend of community support and AI assistance.
Available on iOS and Android, Be My Eyes is free to use and trusted by millions globally.
Key Features
- Real-time video assistance for blind and visually impaired users
- Connects with over 6 million sighted volunteers worldwide
- AI-powered “Virtual Volunteer” feature using OpenAI technology
- Specialized help from corporate customer support (e.g., Microsoft, Google)
- Free and anonymous service for users and volunteers
- Available in 180+ languages
- Compatible with screen readers and accessibility tools
- Available on iOS and Android
How It Works
- A blind or low-vision user initiates a video call through the Be My Eyes app
- A sighted volunteer or company representative answers the call to assist
- For instant help, the AI Virtual Volunteer can answer visual questions based on a live camera feed
- The user receives support in real time for everyday tasks like reading expiration dates, setting oven timers, or navigating unfamiliar spaces
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Completely free for both users and volunteers
- Combines human empathy with AI efficiency
- Available in multiple languages and regions
- Expands accessibility for millions of visually impaired users
- Supported by top companies and the global volunteer community
Cons:
- AI feature may not handle complex or context-specific visual tasks as accurately as a human
- Relies on internet connection for video calls
- Volunteer availability may vary depending on region and time
Who Should Use Be My Eyes?
Be My Eyes is designed specifically for:
- Blind or low-vision individuals needing daily assistance
- Seniors and elderly users with sight impairments
- Organizations looking to offer accessible support
- Sighted people wanting to volunteer and contribute
Top Use Cases
- Reading food packaging or expiration dates
- Identifying street signs or public transport information
- Getting help with technology setup or troubleshooting
- Choosing clothing colors or outfit combinations
- Navigating unfamiliar environments
How Be My Eyes Uses AI
Be My Eyes integrates OpenAI’s GPT-powered visual tools under the “Virtual Volunteer” feature. This tool analyzes a user’s camera feed and provides context-aware answers to visual questions, such as “What does this label say?” or “Which one of these shirts is red?”
This feature is especially helpful when a volunteer is unavailable or when users prefer immediate AI assistance.
More Info & Popular Questions
Who Founded Be My Eyes?
Be My Eyes was founded by Hans Jørgen Wiberg in Denmark in 2012 and officially launched in 2015.
Is Be My Eyes Free?
Yes, it is 100% free for blind and low-vision users as well as sighted volunteers.
How Many People Use Be My Eyes?
As of 2024, Be My Eyes has over 7 million users, including more than 6.5 million volunteers across 150+ countries.
What Languages Does Be My Eyes Support?
Be My Eyes is available in more than 180 languages and works globally.
Does Be My Eyes Have an API?
As of now, Be My Eyes does not offer a public API, but it partners with companies for enterprise accessibility integrations.
Which Companies Partner with Be My Eyes?
Microsoft, Google, P&G, Spotify, and others use Be My Eyes for customer support accessibility.
Platforms Supported
- iOS
- Android
- Web (limited functionality)
Can Sighted People Use It?
Yes! Sighted individuals can sign up as volunteers to receive calls and provide visual support to blind users.
Awards & Recognition
- Winner of Apple Design Award for Accessibility
- Featured by TIME, BBC, and Forbes
- Recognized by the World Health Organization and UN
Final Verdict
Be My Eyes is a life-changing app that enhances independence and confidence for blind and low-vision individuals. Its blend of compassionate human volunteers and cutting-edge AI makes it a model for inclusive technology. Whether you’re looking for help or to offer it, Be My Eyes is a powerful tool that truly transforms lives.
👉 Learn more and download the app: https://www.bemyeyes.com