A London-based company, OwnFone, launched the world’s first Braille phone yesterday. It costs only 60 pounds (roughly $100) and is on sale in the UK only at the moment.
Braille phone by OwnPhone
According to its manufacturers, the Braille phone provides instant connection between visually-impaired people and their friends and family. The phone was constructed using 3D printing techniques and can easily be personalized with two or four Braille buttons which are pre-programmed to call family, carers etc.
OwnFone also said that they are able to print raised text on the keypad for those out there who cannot read Braille.
Although the phone may be the first Braille phone to go on sale in the world, it is not the first of its kind. Last year, India-based Kriyate developed a prototype of a Braille smartphone, which featured a Braille display and feedback controls that beep or vibrate after receiving certain commands.