Category: Cane EnAbled

In addition to celebrating all things related to the white cane; including safety, usage, personalization, this monthly series also shares broad perspectives from those in the field, parents of B&VI children, advocates, technology and exciting news and events within the blind community. Cane EnAbled is published on the fourth Monday of each month.

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AI Breakthrough: Ally Revolutionizes Museum Experience, Making Art Accessible to All

A middle-aged man with grey hair and glasses, wearing a checkered purple shirt, stands in an indoor museum using his smartphone to explore an exhibit. Beside him is a vibrant, abstract artwork filled with bright colors and rich textures. A relaxed, light-colored dog lies at his feet. The scene features a softly lit, neutral background and a graphic element with the partially visible text “MUSEUM CRAFT DESIGN” accented by an orange, flowing line.

 ”Ally was built to unlock the world through conversation. By launching an Ally at the Museum of Craft and Design, we’re not just adding accessibility—we’re transforming how people connect with art. This pilot shows that great design is inclusive design. And that benefits everyone, not just those who are blind or have low vision”

~Karthik Mahadevan, CEO and co-founder of Envision

Editor’s Note

Museums have always been places of discovery, but true inclusion has long remained an aspiration rather than a reality for many blind and low-vision visitors. That is why I am thrilled to spotlight Ally, Envision’s conversational AI assistant, in this month’s Cane EnAbled feature. Fresh from a highly praised pilot at San Francisco’s Museum of Craft and Design, Ally is setting a new benchmark for accessibility—enabling everyone to independently explore, question, and truly engage with art in real time.

As former Bold Blind Beauty intern Jonathan Rubinov shared:

“If you haven’t already, I highly encourage you to check out the Ally app—available now on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. As someone who’s been using it extensively, I can confidently say I’m blown away by how capable, intuitive, and intelligent it is. From providing detailed descriptions of any image you upload to effortlessly searching the web, Ally helps you get things done in a flash. This isn’t just another app—it’s revolutionary assistive technology that’s already making a meaningful impact, and I truly believe it can empower even more people to live and work independently.”

By harnessing the power of intuitive, AI-driven guidance, Ally empowers visitors to connect with exhibitions in ways that once seemed unimaginable—transcending barriers not just for the blind community, but for all who value access and autonomy. As we move forward, Ally shows what can be achieved when technology prioritizes both innovation and inclusion. I am excited to see how this breakthrough influences the future of arts engagement for everyone.

Stephanae McCoy
Editor-in-Chief, Bold Blind Beauty

Revolutionizing Museum Accessibility and Engagement

A new era of museum engagement is dawning thanks to Envision’s groundbreaking AI assistant, Ally. Fresh off a highly successful pilot at the Museum of Craft and Design (MCD) in San Francisco, Ally, the most accessible AI assistant, is transforming how every museum-goer interacts with art, moving beyond traditional accessibility to create a truly inclusive and interactive experience

Ally, the most accessible and conversational AI assistant, empowers visitors to independently explore exhibitions like never before. By simply scanning a QR code at the museum’s entrance and pointing their smartphone camera at an artwork, visitors can engage in a natural conversation with Ally.

“Ally was built to unlock the world through conversation,” says Karthik Mahadevan, CEO and co-founder of Envision. “This pilot shows that great design is inclusive design. And that benefits everyone, not just those who are blind or have low vision”.

How Ally makes art accessible and interactive for everyone:

Conversational Guidance: Ally provides thoughtful, natural answers to any questions visitors have, from “What am I looking at?” to “What materials did the artist use?”. Exhibition texts and wall labels are built directly into Ally, enabling it to understand what it’s “looking at” and offer detailed insights and visual descriptions on the spot.

Empowering Independence: For visitors who are blind or have low vision, Ally provides rich descriptions and contextual insights, allowing them to engage with art in a way previously unimaginable. One visitor shared, “It goes above and beyond other devices. The descriptions felt so comprehensive—it was like I had my sight back”.

Seamless for All: Ally works on any smartphone – no special device or setup required. It adapts to anyone’s pace and curiosity, including elderly visitors and those with hearing loss, who can receive information streamed directly into their hearing devices. Sighted visitors also benefit from a screen-free, voice-first experience.

Overwhelmingly Positive Results: The pilot at MCD’s “Beau McCall: Buttons On!” exhibition received rave reviews. 100% of participants reported that Ally improved their museum experience, noting how descriptions of lighting, textures, materials, and story helped bring the art to life.

See Ally In Action

Ally is currently available at the Museum of Craft and Design until September 14th and represents a significant leap forward in making cultural spaces truly inclusive. Envision is now inviting more museums to pilot Ally, offering a web-based, hardware-free solution that can be deployed in just a few days.

We believe Ally’s impact on making art accessible and interactive is a compelling story for your audience. We’d be delighted to arrange an interview if needed to discuss this innovative technology further.

To learn more about bringing a custom Ally experience to your museum or cultural space, visit ally.me/museums. Download Ally on iOS, Android, or try it online at ally.me.

A digital graphic with a solid blue background features a vibrant, wavy orange line curving across the center for dynamic contrast. White text above reads “find more on” with the URL “ally.me/museums” below, inviting viewers to explore museum content. The clean design and bold colors create an inviting, accessible atmosphere that emphasizes community and inclusivity.
Find More on: ally.me/museums

About Envision

Envision is a global leader in assistive technology for blind and low-vision people, empowering millions through AI-powered tools that turn visual data into meaningful spoken information. Trusted by users worldwide, Envision combines cutting-edge AI with a deep commitment to accessibility, inclusion, and user-centered design. Whether through the award-winning Envision app, smart glasses, or Ally—the most accessible AI assistant—Envision’s technology is transforming how people connect with the world around them. For more information, visit www.letsenvision.com.

About the Museum of Craft and Design

The Museum of Craft and Design (MCD) is San Francisco’s only museum devoted to craft and design. Founded in 2004, MCD showcases designers, makers, and artists through an exciting and distinctive series of craft and design-focused exhibitions and public programs. MCD explores the creative process and current perspectives in craft and design through inspired exhibitions and experiential programs. Learn more at sfmcd.org.

Like what you’ve read and want to chat about it? Join us in the Bold Blind Beauty Facebook group.

Connecting With Bold Blind Beauty

PiccyBot Image Descriptions

  • The header image depicts a scene from an indoor museum, specifically focusing on the dynamic interplay of art and technology. In the foreground, there is a middle-aged man standing slightly to the left. He wears a checkered, light purple shirt, demonstrating a sense of casualness as he examines an exhibit on his smartphone, likely accessing information or engaging with an audio guide. He has greying hair and wears glasses, giving him a knowledgeable and inquisitive appearance.
    • To the right of the man, there is a large, abstract artwork mounted on the wall, which features a multitude of shapes and bright colors, including yellows, greens, and hints of orange. The texture of the piece seems rich and intricate, possibly constructed from mixed media, which invites viewers to contemplate its composition closely. The overall visual impact of the artwork adds vibrancy to the setting, enhancing the cultural atmosphere of the museum.
    • In front of the man, at his feet, lies a well-groomed, light-colored dog that appears relaxed, showcasing the gentle texture of its fur. The presence of the dog adds a warm, friendly element to the scene, suggesting a casual outing rather than a strictly formal museum visit.
    • The background includes a subtly lit wall, which is likely painted in a neutral shade, allowing the art to take center stage without any distractions. The scene is illuminated softly, creating a serene and contemplative mood conducive to museum exploration. The overall atmosphere feels educational and inviting, encouraging curiosity and engagement with the art.
    • In the foreground, there is an ornamental design or graphic element with the text “MUSEUM CRAFT DESIGN,” prominently displayed but partially obscured. An artistic, flowing line, presumably in an orange hue, winds through the text, symbolizing creativity and movement in design. This combination adds a modern flair to the traditional museum setting.
  • Thumbnail & Video Description: Thumbnail & Video Description: A bold graphic set on a deep blue background features the prominent white text “MUSEUM CRAFT DESIGN” in two lines, with “CRAFT” partially obscured for a playful effect. To the right, the word “ally” is written in bright orange, flowing script, its line curving dynamically across the design.
    • The video features Ally, a personal AI guide, introducing museum visitors to button-themed art pieces created in 2024. A man explores the exhibit using his phone, asking detailed questions about the artworks, including a vintage clawfoot bathtub made of buttons and a world-themed piece on a 45B side. Visitors praise the tool’s accessibility and rich descriptions, sharing a positive museum experience. The video ends with Ally thanking viewers and sharing the website ally.me/museums.
  • A digital graphic with a solid blue background features a vibrant, wavy orange line curving across the center for dynamic contrast. White text above reads “find more on” with the URL “ally.me/museums” below, inviting viewers to explore museum content. The clean design and bold colors create an inviting, accessible atmosphere that emphasizes community and inclusivity.
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Vanessa Vigar: Redefining Access with Envision Glasses

The Beyond Sight Magazine header photo (a still from her video) features Vanessa Vigar, a white female in her fifties, with medium-length auburn/reddish hair, seated at a desk against a modern, minimalist backdrop with angular shapes and subtle color contrasts. She wears a light-colored top with a checkered jacket, which has a soft texture. The background has muted tones, enhancing the overall sophistication. The text on the cover includes the magazine's tagline, 'A Bold Blind Beauty Project,' and identifies the issue as April 2025.

 ”I have had a lot of experience in working with technologies of different kinds and media, which is very visual. So it was quite funny to come to a company where we were working with creating amazing products, which are all about the audio experience, primarily for a non-visual audience.”

~Vanessa Vigar

Editor’s Note

This month, Bold Blind Beauty’s Cane EnAbled shines a spotlight on Vanessa Vigar, the dynamic Chief Marketing Officer at Envision. Vanessa brings a powerful and unique perspective to her role, blending over 25 years of global marketing expertise with her personal journey of navigating sight loss due to Retinitis Pigmentosa. This lived experience fuels her passion at Envision, a company at the forefront of developing assistive technology that truly empowers the blind and low-vision community to achieve independent access to information.

Since joining Envision in 2021, Vanessa has been instrumental in shaping their brand, communications, and growth strategy, driving the impact of innovative tools like the Envision Glasses and the accessible AI assistant, Ally. As you’ll hear in her engaging conversation, Vanessa’s leadership is deeply informed by her own experiences with assistive technology and her profound understanding of the community’s needs. Based in Leiden, the Netherlands, and also a runner with the Dutch Running Blind team, Vanessa infuses her work with empathy, energy, and a clear vision for the future of inclusive design. We are thrilled to share her compelling story and the exciting advancements happening at Envision with our audience.

Watch Vanessa’s video or, for those who prefer reading, find the transcript below. Enjoy!

Stephanae McCoy
Editor-in-Chief, Bold Blind Beauty

Beyond Sight Magazine Cover

A still from her video, features Vanessa Vigar, a white female in her fifties, with medium-length auburn/reddish hair, seated at a desk against a modern, minimalist backdrop with angular shapes and subtle color contrasts. She wears a light-colored top with a checkered jacket, which has a soft texture. The background has muted tones, enhancing the overall sophistication. The text on the cover includes the magazine's tagline, 'A Bold Blind Beauty Project,' and identifies the issue as April 2025.
Vanessa Vigar | Envision | Cane EnAbled April 2025

YouTube Video

Vanessa Vigar | Envision | April Cane EnAbled

Introduction and Background

Hi. It’s great to be here. Thank you, Bold Blind Beauty, for inviting me to be here. My name is Vanessa Vigar. I’m the Chief Marketing Officer at Envision. We’re a software company that makes smart glasses, apps, and other services for people who are blind and have low vision. 

I am, how do I put this? Politely in my fifties, white female, medium length auburn sort of reddish hair, I guess. And today I am wearing one of my favorite vintage jackets with a white t-shirt. 

My journey so far with sight loss. I’ve been working in media technologies for a very long time. And in the early two thousands, I was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, and that was around the time I switched to working from the content side of media to the more technical side. And it was really interesting because I could see there was a great opportunity there for accessibility, although I didn’t understand how that could be applied.

Joining Envision and Its Impact

So joining Envision felt, really, really natural. I mean, I think I have had a lot of experience in working with technologies of different kinds and media, which is very visual. So it was quite funny to come to a company where we were working on creating amazing products, which are all about the audio experience, primarily for a non-visual audience. So I just really felt at home, I felt that I could ask those questions about sight loss, and for myself, also learning about the community. So it was very immersive, straight away.

But I love what’s happening. 

So the very fact that AI has made this quantum shift for information and wearables as well, and envision has established itself as the sort of expert in the accessibility space between those two factors. So, you know, the AI side, and the wearable side, and to be working with a company that was pioneering this for accessibility is just hugely fulfilling. 

Personal Experiences with Assistive Technology

So what is interesting is that through my work, I get to talk to hundreds of people, and learn the stories of hundreds of people with vision loss. And everybody has their own way of dealing with it. I have colleagues who are fully blind and customers as well. And, of course, that journey is also different. Everybody has what we call a toolkit of stuff, right? From white canes to dogs to, you know, technology. 

And so I am at that point where I am still using more of the accessibility features in my devices than specialist assistive technology products like screen readers, for instance. I can still get by, as I said, through muddle, through enlarging text. But I notice I’m doing much more voiceover and dictation, I’m doing much more with voice notes. I’m doing much more audible kinds of transmitted content, but I am using Ally. This is our AI assistant accessible AI assistant. I use Ella and Ally for so many things, and I do use the Envision glasses as well. I use the scan, text reading feature a lot because you know, it’s very tiring to read print, text, especially when I live in the Netherlands. My Dutch is okay, but reading and writing it is terrible. So I love to read the newspapers or I like to understand my tax bills.

Demonstrating Envision Glasses

a vibrant indoor stage scene featuring three people, two women and one man. The background is a striking purple with a graphic pattern, and bold white text reads “FOR GLASSES PEOPLE WHO SEE FOR LOW.” The woman on the left is wearing a patterned dress, while Vanessa, in the center, is holding a white cane, dressed in a moto jacket and metallic-looking pants. The man to her left is casually dressed in a polo shirt, pants, and sneakers.
Tech Catwalk 2025

You know, since I’m talking about the Envision glasses, let’s take a look at them in action, shall we? So, they are, in a protective case, very good. When I lose the case and sit on it and do things on it, it’s a very attractive-looking pair of glasses. I won’t go into the whole demo now because that’s all available on our website. 

But the smart bit is on the right-hand side. And I’m just going to swap these out. I’ve got my lens frames here, prescription as well, ’cause I’m also shortsighted. As if RP and anything else aren’t enough. So, we have a series of features on the glasses. I can use voice controls, or I can use gestures to navigate to them. 

Vanessa: And I’m just gonna go straight to Ally now. So let’s just see where I am. 

Ally: Hey. 

Vanessa: Hi Ally. Can you tell me a little bit about what’s going on in the news today in the US?

Ally: On March 26th, 2025, several significant events have been reported in the United States, one Trump’s executive order on the election. President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at making sweeping changes to the US election system. The order requires the Election Assistance Commission to revamp the voter. 

Vanessa: Okay. Right. Let’s just stop that, Ella. I don’t want to know more about that. But what I will do now is I’m gonna ask Ella to tell me about this recipe.

Ally: Got no problem. If there’s anything else you’re curious about or need help with, just let me know. 

Vanessa: Okay, Ella? I do, I do. I’ve got a brownie recipe, which I think is in French. Could you just take a look at it? Also, just gimme a recommendation for options for vegans, please.

Ally: Let me take a look. To make this brownie recipe vegan, you can make the following substitutions. One, butter. Use a plant-based margarine or coconut oil. Two eggs. Replace each egg with a flaxseed egg mix: one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water, and let it sit until it thickens. Three. Ensure the chocolate is vegan. Use vegan chocolate that doesn’t contain milk or any. 

Vanessa: Ella, that is fantastic. That’s great. Hey, listen, I’m gonna be heading back home to Leiden in the Netherlands this afternoon. Could you tell me if I need to bring my umbrella with me? 

Ally: You won’t need an umbrella in Leiden today. The sky will be clear with the temperature of about 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Safe travels. 

Future of Ally and Envision

So that was a quick example of Ally on the Envision Glasses, which is also now Ally on the mobile. So we have iOS and Android that went live only fairly recently. But it’s free, download it, have a play with it. It’s also on PC, so if you’re on your Mac, on your desktop, it doesn’t have to be on Mac; it can be anything, you can use Ally there to help you. 

So the idea is that Ally will be everywhere. That I can start using it, for instance, on my mobile phone in the morning, checking the weather, or just checking my calendar. Calendar integration is, is, is any minute, and that is fantastic. So I can literally say, what’s on my agenda today? What’s the weather like? What time do I need to get, you know, at the house to get to X, Y, Z? Putting all those pieces together, it just makes it so useful. 

And then when I’m on the train, for instance, I could either use Ally on my phone, but I can also go into my glasses and say help me find an empty seat. And do all those things hand-free that I might need, because I’m using my cane for instance.

You know, there’s a lot of information there on the personalities. You heard my Ally, I call her Ella, she’s kind of got a dry British sense of humor. But we’ve got a ton of characters there and voices, and it’s fun, and it’s customized. So I put in information about me. So the information she gives me is contextual to me, and that personalization is, is groundbreaking, it is. So yes, as you can tell, I’m not shy about talking about our products because I can relate to it. I use Envision and certainly the Ally and glasses almost every day. 

Conclusion and Contact Information

So yeah, finding more information about Envision. Well, what we try to be everywhere, not just our products, but in terms of our marketing channels as well. We’re on all the social media accounts or channels, or whatever, but let’s envision we’re also online. Of course, we have a website, which is called letsenvision.com. That’s L-E-T-S-E-N-V-I-S-I-O-N.com. And Ally, you can find out about our glasses and our products there, but you can also go directly to the Ally site, which is Ally.me, which is A-L-L-Y.M-E.

Vanessa Vigar – Chief Marketing Officer, Envision

Vanessa Vigar is the Chief Marketing Officer at Envision, where she brings over 25 years of global marketing and communications experience to support the company’s mission: creating assistive technology that empowers people who are blind or have low vision to access information for themselves. Since joining Envision in 2021, she has led the company’s brand, communications, and growth strategy—helping expand the reach of its award-winning Envision Glasses, Envision app, and accessible AI assistant, Ally.

Diagnosed in her mid-30s with Retinitis Pigmentosa, Vanessa combines her personal experience of vision loss with a professional passion for storytelling, inclusion, and meaningful innovation. She is committed to helping good people and clever technologies find their voice and achieve their purpose. Before Envision, she held leadership roles across industries, building purpose-driven brands and teams through periods of change and transformation.
Living in Leiden, the Netherlands, Vanessa is an avid runner with the Dutch Running Blind team. Her perspective as a low-vision professional brings authenticity, empathy, and energy to her work, making her a compelling voice in conversations around accessibility, inclusive design, and the future of assistive technology.

Learn More About Envision

Like what you’ve read and want to chat about it? Join us in the Bold Blind Beauty Facebook group.

Connecting With Bold Blind Beauty

Image Descriptions

  • The Beyond Sight Magazine header photo (a still from her video) features Vanessa Vigar, a white female in her fifties, with medium-length auburn/reddish hair, seated at a desk against a modern, minimalist backdrop with angular shapes and subtle color contrasts. She wears a light-colored top with a checkered jacket, which has a soft texture. The background has muted tones, enhancing the overall sophistication. The text on the cover includes the magazine’s tagline, ‘A Bold Blind Beauty Project,’ and identifies the issue as April 2025.
  • YouTube Video: Described in the Beyond Sight Magazine image above.
  • Tech Catwalk 2025: a vibrant indoor stage scene featuring three people, two women and one man. The background is a striking purple with a graphic pattern, and bold white text that’s cut off reads “GLASSES WHO LOW.” The woman on the left is wearing a patterned dress, while Vanessa, in the center, is holding a white cane, dressed in a moto jacket and metallic-looking pants. The man to her left is casually dressed in a polo shirt, pants, and sneakers.
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Enhancing Digital Access with Innosearch AI

The Beyond Sight Magazine header photo features Patrick Long a young Asian man with dark hair, fair skin, and a neatly trimmed haircut, dressed in a light-colored shirt has a serious expression, evoking a contemplative mood. The text on the cover includes the magazine's tagline, 'A Bold Blind Beauty Project,' and identifies the issue as March 2025.

 ”We’re not replacing the services, but rather we’re enhancing them, making sure every interaction is accessible. Whether you’re using screen readers, magnifiers, braille displays, or keyboard navigation, Innosearch provides a frictionless experience tailored towards your needs. No more frustration, just seamless access to the web.”

~Patrick Long

Editor’s Note

This month’s Cane EnAbled segment features Patrick Long, co-founder of Innosearch AI, a groundbreaking platform that’s revolutionizing web accessibility for blind and low-vision users. Patrick and his team are tackling a persistent problem in our digital age: the accessibility gap that still exists on many websites, even in 2025.

Innosearch AI is not just another assistive technology; it’s a comprehensive solution that reformats websites into clean, screen reader-friendly experiences. From e-commerce to travel booking, Patrick’s vision is to make every corner of the internet truly accessible.

In his video, Patrick shares insights into the development of Innosearch AI, its key features, and the team’s future plans. His passion for creating a more inclusive digital world shines through, reminding us that accessibility should be the standard, not an afterthought.

I invite you to read Patrick’s story and reflect on the importance of digital accessibility in our increasingly connected world. His work exemplifies the innovation and determination that drive positive change in our community.

Watch Patrick’s video or, for those who prefer reading, find the transcript below. Enjoy!

Stephanae McCoy
Editor-in-Chief, Bold Blind Beauty

Beyond Sight Magazine Cover

The Beyond Sight Magazine header photo features Patrick Long a young Asian man with dark hair, fair skin, and a neatly trimmed haircut, dressed in a light-colored shirt has a serious expression, evoking a contemplative mood. The text on the cover includes the magazine's tagline, 'A Bold Blind Beauty Project,' and identifies the issue as March 2025.
Patrick Long | Innosearch AI | Cane EnAbled March 2025

YouTube Video

Patrick Long | Innosearch AI | Cane EnAbled March 2025

Introduction to Web Accessibility Challenges

The internet today is supposed to make life easier, but for millions of blind and low-vision users, it’s still full of barriers. Basic tasks like shopping online, booking travel, or even reading product details can be frustrating, if not impossible, on websites that aren’t designed for accessibility.

That’s why we created Innosearch AI, a platform that makes the digital world accessible by reformatting websites into a clean, screen reader-friendly experience. Our goal is simple. Everyone should be able to access the web with ease. No exceptions.

Meet the Innosearch AI Team

I’m Patrick, co-founder of Innosearch AI, alongside Brian and our primary advisor, Dr. Kirk Adams.

Dr. Adams is the former CEO of the American Foundation for the Blind, and also Seattle Lighthouse for the Blind, and has been a leader in this space for decades. Our team comes from backgrounds in social entrepreneurship, AI, e-commerce, and accessibility, having worked at companies like Google, Meta, and Walmart.

We also employ three blind team members, including an accessibility engineer, and also a spokesperson, Sam Seavey, from The Blind Life, alongside Dr. Adams. We are supported by a global team based in the UK, Vietnam, the Philippines, and India, all working on one mission, making the web truly accessible.

The Accessibility Gap in 2025

While experimenting with AI and large language models, we realized something shocking. Even today, in 2025, most websites still aren’t accessible to the blind and low vision. Booking a flight? A hassle. Buying something online? often impossible. Finding basic information inconsistent at best. Despite accessibility laws, most sites still fail to meet the most basic standards, and users are left struggling.

After countless user testing studies and conversations with the community, we knew this had to change. As the world moves towards more and more digitalization, digital accessibility isn’t just important, it’s essential. But here’s the problem, most websites are built for sighted users. This creates a huge accessibility gap, one that excludes millions of people from fully participating in the digital world.

How Innosearch AI Works

And that’s where Innosearch AI comes in. We bridge that gap by creating a fully accessible experience that lets the blind and low vision navigate the web seamlessly.

Here’s how we do it. We extract all the relevant information from any website, be it news, e-commerce, flights, hotels, restaurant menus, food delivery, and more. We then reformat it into a clean, screen reader-friendly experience, removing clutter and making it easy to navigate. Users can then interact with it using voice commands, screen readers, a phone line, or even our AI-powered chat assistant. On the back end, we use AI, automation, and human agents to ensure a seamless experience.

We’re not replacing the services, but rather we’re enhancing them, making sure every interaction is accessible. Whether you’re using screen readers, magnifiers, braille displays, or keyboard navigation, Innosearch provides a frictionless experience tailored towards your needs. No more frustration, just seamless access to the web.

Key Features of Innosearch AI

What makes Innosearch stand out? We’ve built it from the ground up with the core principle, simplicity. For accessibility to truly work, it has to be easy, intuitive, and hassle-free. With assistive technologies like screen readers, complex layouts, excessive visuals, and cluttered content, your typical accessible technology just doesn’t work. That’s why we strip it down to the essentials giving you exactly what you need in a clear, easy-to-navigate interface.

Need more details? No problem. Our AI-powered chat agent can dive deeper into product details, research, and even generate image descriptions all on demand. We’ve already processed billions of products across over 500,000 retailers like Walmart and Target, and we offer the best pricing, competitive shipping, and the best possible return policy on all our items.

Future Developments and Mission

We’re always improving, and some of the most exciting new features we’re rolling out in the coming months include voice commands, making navigation even easier, especially for those who struggle with traditional screen readers. And also grocery and food delivery options. So those who are blind and low vision have even more options to choose from.

Overall, our mission is to make the Internet truly accessible. At the end of the day, accessibility shouldn’t be an afterthought. It should be the standard.

Conclusion and Call to Action

We’re building the future, and we’d love for you all to be a part of it. Thank you for your time, and if you have any questions, feel free to reach out.

Thanks a lot.

Patrick Long’s Bio

Patrick Long is a seasoned entrepreneur with over a decade at the cutting edge of technology. He previously built a blockchain-based financial inclusion company to empower the 2 billion underbanked and unbanked with access to financial services. Now, he is focused on Innosearch AI, a digital accessibility platform designed to help blind and visually impaired individuals navigate essential online services like e-commerce and travel. Formerly a CPA at Ernst & Young, he holds a background in economics from UC Berkeley. Born and raised in the SF Bay Area, he is passionate about badminton, traveling, investing in technology, and playing poker.

Learn More About Innosearch & Patrick

Like what you’ve read and want to chat about it? Join us in the Bold Blind Beauty Facebook group.

Connecting With Bold Blind Beauty

Image Descriptions

  • The Beyond Sight Magazine header photo features Patrick Long a young Asian man with dark hair, fair skin, and a neatly trimmed haircut, dressed in a light-colored shirt has a serious expression, evoking a contemplative mood. The text on the cover includes the magazine’s tagline, ‘A Bold Blind Beauty Project,’ and identifies the issue as March 2025.
  • YouTube Video: The video features Patrick, a young Asian man with dark hair, fair skin, and a neatly trimmed haircut, speaking directly to the camera; he’s wearing a dark maroon shirt. The backdrop behind him is black, overlaid with a faint white design that includes a spherical shape crisscrossed with fine white lines, giving it a futuristic, global feel. In the upper-left corner of the screen, we see the logo for ‘innosearch.ai,’ with the tagline ‘Accessible E-commerce’ beneath it. The man’s name, ‘Patrick Long,’ is displayed in the lower-left corner, while in the lower-right corner, we notice the company’s website address, ‘innosearch.ai.
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From Vision Loss to Innovation: Sakshi’s Journey

The cover of 'Beyond Sight' magazine features Sakshi Srivastava standing against a plain background. She has long, wavy hair and is wearing a white button-up shirt. The scene is indoors, and a striking element is the red smoke or powder that partially surrounds her head and upper body. The text on the cover includes the magazine's tagline, 'A Bold Blind Beauty Project,' and identifies the issue as February 2025. The overall mood of the cover is empowering and artistic, with a modern, minimalist design that draws attention to the contrast between the white shirt and the vibrant red smoke.

 I was brought up as a sighted kid. I thought that’s how you conquer the world. And without your vision, how do you even do it?

~Sakshi Srivastava

Editor’s Note

In this month’s Cane EnAbled feature, we introduce Sakshi Srivastava, co-founder and CEO of SensAble, an innovative assistive technology startup in Tampa, Florida. Sakshi’s journey from a sighted individual to a visually impaired entrepreneur showcases the power of resilience and the transformative potential of assistive technology.

Today, Sakshi and her husband, Dr. Harshit Srivastava, are developing Vizion 1, a wearable device that aims to revolutionize independent mobility for the visually impaired by combining obstacle detection with navigation assistance. As they prepare for the product’s launch in 2026, Sakshi invites the community to help shape this groundbreaking technology.

Watch Sakshi’s video or, for those who prefer reading, find the transcript below. Enjoy!

Stephanae McCoy
Editor-in-Chief, Bold Blind Beauty

Beyond Sight Magazine Cover

The Beyond Sight Magazine header photo features Sakshi Srivastava standing against a plain background. She has long, wavy hair and is wearing a white button-up shirt. The scene is indoors, and a striking element is the red smoke or powder that partially surrounds her head and upper body. The text on the cover includes the magazine's tagline, 'A Bold Blind Beauty Project,' and identifies the issue as February 2025. The overall mood of the cover is empowering and artistic, with a modern, minimalist design that draws attention to the contrast between the white shirt and the vibrant red smoke.
Sakshi Srivastava | SensAble | Cane EnAbled February 2025

YouTube Video

Sakshi Srivastava | SensAble | Cane EnAbled February 2025

Sakshi’s Personal Journey

This image depicts an outdoor waterfront scene with Sakshi standing casually on a sunlit brick walkway. She is holding a drink in her left hand and resting her right arm on a metal railing. She is wearing a white T-shirt with text across the front, khaki pants, and white sneakers. A vibrant red and colorful patterned crossbody bag hangs across her torso. In the background, tall buildings form the skyline, and another person, a man dressed in blue, is seen near the water's edge, possibly fishing or doing some activity. The atmosphere appears relaxed and pleasant, with soft sunlight and a partially cloudy sky.
Waterfront
The image depicts an urban outdoor parking lot at sunset, with Sakshi standing in the center. Her long hair is pulled up and she wears a light-colored top and beige pants, and holds her hands above her head. The parking lot is filled with various cars, and towering buildings are visible in the background, illuminated by the warm hues of the setting sun. A sense of calmness and end-of-day stillness pervades the scene. The sky transitions from blue to orange, and the tallest building has a blue light at its peak, adding a touch of modernity to the cityscape.
Parking Lot
Sakshi is standing outdoors in a residential area, with apartment buildings visible in the background. She is wearing a floral dress with vibrant colors such as pink, green, and blue. A wide-brimmed hat adorns her head, and she holds one of its tassels in her right hand. She carries a red and pink purse over her shoulder and wears pink slide sandals. The woman appears relaxed, as if enjoying a casual summer day. The scene is bright and suggests a warm, pleasant atmosphere. The overall mood is carefree and sunny, with the greenery and clear skies contributing to a serene setting.
Floral Dress

Hi, my name is Sakshi. I’m the co-founder and CEO of SensAble, an assistive technology startup located out of Tampa, Florida. But before I tell you about the exciting product we are building at SensAble, allow me to share a bit about myself.

I was born sighted in the capital city of India. At 19, I started losing my vision, by the time I was 25, I was officially legally blind. That was also the time that I was building my very first organization which we took from two co-founders all the way to about 30 employees. However, when I was going through my worst vision loss, I had no clue how to keep going. I was brought up as a sighted kid. I thought that’s how you conquer the world. And without your vision, how do you even do it?

All of that changed as soon as I was introduced to assistive technology, as well as assistive tools like our beloved white cane. I started using them and not only did it help me do those activities, which I thought forever lost for me it also gave me a lot of hope that there are intelligent people, there are tools and services and people like myself who are using them, this whole ecosystem that I can reach out to if I want to do something and I can do anything as long as I have the right tools in my hand.

Meeting Dr. Harshit and Developing Vizion 1

A sleek, modern ring positioned against a black background. The ring is metallic with a dark blue hue and a smooth surface, giving it a polished, futuristic appearance. A prominent feature is the inner side of the ring which shows sensors or electronic components. The scene is minimalistic with a focus solely on the ring, creating an impression of advanced technology and sophistication. The mood conveyed is one of elegance and high-tech innovation, with no people present in the image.
An indoor setting with several individuals engaged in a meeting around white tables. On the left, a man in a beige suit appears to be conversing with others. In the background, vibrant artwork featuring colorful abstract patterns adorns the wall, while to the right, the backdrop comprises modern glass office doors and dark blue walls. The scene portrays a professional and collaborative atmosphere, likely within a co-working space or conference area. The overall mood seems productive and inclusive, with people of different backgrounds coming together for a shared purpose. The text at the bottom reads, 'Embarc Collective x Hutchison INVESTOR FLY-IN OFFICE HOURS.

Fast forward a few years later, I met a wonderful man, his name is Dr. Harshit Srivastava and we fell in love, we got married, we started living together and he happened to be a PhD in electrical engineering, having worked for years with giants like MediaTek and Huawei. I’ve seen him build products from scratch, et cetera, et cetera, brilliant geek, all in all.

He decided to build a device for me because he saw me struggling with just one thing in life that was independent mobility. I was always very reluctant to go from my house to this new place to explore all by myself. It’s not just about safety, but also about the number of devices I had to juggle along with my white cane. I had to do all this pre-work of memorizing the path. I had to use multiple devices while I was walking. So all in all, I was reluctant to go anywhere by myself, especially if I had to walk. He decided to build a device to address that particular limitation and make the whole journey much, much smoother.

Vizion 1 Features and Future Plans

Sakshi is standing in an indoor setting, likely an office or a workspace. She has long, curly dark hair and a cheerful demeanor, with a wide smile on her face. She is wearing a black blazer over a white blouse with orange floral patterns, paired with black leggings and black boots. The floor beneath her is a textured, beige color with a distressed, earthy appearance. She stands in front of a modern interior that includes a glass-paneled door and cream-colored walls with dark trim. She is wearing a prototype of Vizion 1 on her left ankle.
A close-up of a Sakshi's lower leg and foot indoors. She is wearing dark blue pants and gray athletic shoes with a white sole and subtle red accents. Attached around the ankle above the shoe is a device that looks like an electronic gadget, secured with a black strap and featuring wires that connect to it. The ankle device has a white covering with small holes. The background includes a carpeted floor with a grey and white pattern, and part of a wall and a doorframe are visible.

So here’s a quick demo. Step left. Continue straight.

As you can see, it’s able to combine the functionalities of Google Maps as well as our obstacle-detecting devices. Two best parts of it. One, it’s extremely affordable, unlike a lot of fantastic assistive technology that is out there and only a few of us are able to access, our Vizion 1 is going to be accessible to every single person financially as well.

Two I think this is the best part. We can actually use it with our existing tools, that is white canes as well as guide dogs. There will be no interference. We don’t have to give up our trusted devices unless we are fully sure of Vizion 1. It’s going to enhance that entire experience and fill out all the remaining gaps so perfectly seamlessly that you won’t even realize that it’s there.

It’s hands-free. It will tell you stop, start, left, right, go, everything through haptics as well as alert you about obstacles within the range of five meters. If that sounds interesting to you, if you live in Florida, if it’s a assistive tech. Get you excited. Please reach out. I’d love to hear from you.

We’d love your feedback. We plan to launch only 2026. 2025 is all about development and testing. We want your feedback and we want to use your feedback to actually shape the product. This product has to be what the community really wants. So If it sounds interesting, please reach out. You’ll find me on almost every social channel and I’m also a content creator. Feel free to follow if you like my content and I’d love to hear from you.

Sakshi Srivastava’s Bio

Sakshi is the co-founder of SensAble, a technology startup enhancing mobility for individuals who are blind, have low vision, or are visually impaired. Born sighted, began losing vision at age 19, she especially understands the need to maintain maximum independence as one goes from sighted to visually impaired. Her experience as a legally blind individual inspired SensAble’s mission to improve independent navigation through practical and accessible solutions.

A two-time impact entrepreneur, Sakshi previously led Bucket List, an initiative supporting underprivileged children’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This hands-on experience taught her that even small efforts can create significant impact, a belief that continues to drive her work at SensAble.

At SensAble, co-founder and CTO Harshit is dedicatedly developing Vizion 1, a sleek ankle wearable that complements canes and guide dogs with advanced haptic feedback and multi-directional sensors. Vizion 1 allows users to explore new environments without extensive pre-planning by providing real-time, obstacle-based directions through haptics and audio. Vizion 1 is currently in testing and has secured partnerships with organizations like Accessible Pharmacy.

Through SensAble’s podcast, Sakshi promotes accessibility and inclusion by amplifying diverse voices and challenging societal perceptions of disability. As blindness rates are expected to double by 2050, her work focuses on creating practical solutions that empower individuals and foster a more accessible world.

Learn More About SensAble

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Connecting With Bold Blind Beauty

Image Descriptions

  • The Beyond Sight Magazine header photo features Sakshi Srivastava standing against a plain background. She has long, wavy hair and is wearing a white button-up shirt. The scene is indoors, and a striking element is the red smoke or powder that partially surrounds her head and upper body. The text on the cover includes the magazine’s tagline, ‘A Bold Blind Beauty Project,’ and identifies the issue as February 2025. The overall mood of the cover is empowering and artistic, with a modern, minimalist design that draws attention to the contrast between the white shirt and the vibrant red smoke.
  • YouTube Video: Sakshi is recording in a room, with a cabinet behind her, featuring white doors and brown side panels. Her long, curly black hair cascades down her shoulders. She is wearing an olive-green top adorned with a striking black necklace, and her nose is pierced. We see that she is positioned in front of a large black microphone, with the “gain” toggle clearly visible, as she begins sharing her personal story and the product SensAble is developing.
  • A trio photo collage
    • This image depicts an outdoor waterfront scene with Sakshi standing casually on a sunlit brick walkway. She is holding a drink in her left hand and resting her right arm on a metal railing. She is wearing a white T-shirt with text across the front, khaki pants, and white sneakers. A vibrant red and colorful patterned crossbody bag hangs across her torso. In the background, tall buildings form the skyline, and another person, a man dressed in blue, is seen near the water’s edge, possibly fishing or doing some activity. The atmosphere appears relaxed and pleasant, with soft sunlight and a partially cloudy sky.
    • The image depicts an urban outdoor parking lot at sunset, with Sakshi standing in the center. Her long hair is pulled up and she wears a light-colored top and beige pants, and holds her hands above her head. The parking lot is filled with various cars, and towering buildings are visible in the background, illuminated by the warm hues of the setting sun. A sense of calmness and end-of-day stillness pervades the scene. The sky transitions from blue to orange, and the tallest building has a blue light at its peak, adding a touch of modernity to the cityscape.
    • Sakshi is standing outdoors in a residential area, with apartment buildings visible in the background. She is wearing a floral dress with vibrant colors such as pink, green, and blue. A wide-brimmed hat adorns her head, and she holds one of its tassels in her right hand. She carries a red and pink purse over her shoulder and wears pink slide sandals. The woman appears relaxed, as if enjoying a casual summer day. The scene is bright and suggests a warm, pleasant atmosphere. The overall mood is carefree and sunny, with the greenery and clear skies contributing to a serene setting.
  • A trio photo collage
    • A small, sleek electronic device with a matte black and metallic grey finish, set against a completely black background. The device has a modern, curved design with a central metallic grey panel that bears a Bluetooth symbol, indicating connectivity features. The surrounding frame is matte black, tapering slightly inward towards the center. Texture-wise, it appears smooth and polished. The lack of additional elements or context in the image suggests an emphasis on the device itself, possibly highlighting its sophisticated design and functionality. The overall atmosphere is minimalist and high-tech, evoking a sense of modernity and efficiency.
    • A sleek, modern ring positioned against a black background. The ring is metallic with a dark blue hue and a smooth surface, giving it a polished, futuristic appearance. A prominent feature is the inner side of the ring which shows sensors or electronic components. The scene is minimalistic with a focus solely on the ring, creating an impression of advanced technology and sophistication. The mood conveyed is one of elegance and high-tech innovation, with no people present in the image.
    • An indoor setting with several individuals engaged in a meeting around white tables. On the left, a man in a beige suit appears to be conversing with others. In the background, vibrant artwork featuring colorful abstract patterns adorns the wall, while to the right, the backdrop comprises modern glass office doors and dark blue walls. The scene portrays a professional and collaborative atmosphere, likely within a co-working space or conference area. The overall mood seems productive and inclusive, with people of different backgrounds coming together for a shared purpose. The text at the bottom reads, ‘Embarc Collective x Hutchison INVESTOR FLY-IN OFFICE HOURS.
  • Two photo collage
    • Sakshi is standing in an indoor setting, likely an office or a workspace. She has long, curly dark hair and a cheerful demeanor, with a wide smile on her face. She is wearing a black blazer over a white blouse with orange floral patterns, paired with black leggings and black boots. The floor beneath her is a textured, beige color with a distressed, earthy appearance. She stands in front of a modern interior that includes a glass-paneled door and cream-colored walls with dark trim. She is wearing a prototype of Vizion 1 on her left ankle.
    • A close-up of a Sakshi’s lower leg and foot indoors. She is wearing dark blue pants and gray athletic shoes with a white sole and subtle red accents. Attached around the ankle above the shoe is a device that looks like an electronic gadget, secured with a black strap and featuring wires that connect to it. The ankle device has a white covering with small holes. The background includes a carpeted floor with a grey and white pattern, and part of a wall and a doorframe are visible.