Sounds maps for the blind

According to an article posted by digital trends, Microsoft has been developing a headset which will help people, suffering with blindness, to be able navigate a lot easier through their surroundings.

The Headset, made in collaboration between Art and Science, creates a mobile friendly, interactive, sound map of a city. The headset ensures that the person wearing it is always aware of their surroundings at all times. It creates a 3D audio map by connecting to a mobile device and picks up signals from Bluetooth beacons located around the city.

The headset works somewhat like a guide dog, although it is very unlikely that this new technology will replace the hardworking dog or the cane. By using sounds that alter in pitch and tone, the headset is able to lead someone to their destination. Things that will enrich the lives of the people using the headset, include being told when there is a post office, or bank coming up.