There's An App Called 'Be My Eyes' That Lets Volunteers Help Blind People Via Video Chat

January 23, 2019

Be My Eyes is a free app that connects blind people with sighted volunteers for visual assistance through a live video call.

The app's homepage indicates nearly 2 million sighted users have signed up to serve as volunteers.

How does it work?

When a blind or partially sighted person requests support through the app, Be My Eyes sends a notification to several volunteers. The first volunteer to answer the request will be connected to that specific user. If no volunteers answer the notification, the request will be forwarded to other volunteers until answered.

A blind or a low-vision user may need help with anything from checking expiry dates, distinguishing colors, reading instructions or navigating new surroundings.

"I personally have been called on to help someone choose the right color sweater, adjust the thermostat accordingly, and help determine who sent a package. All wonderful experiences with people I wouldn't have connected with otherwise!" Taylor wrote on a Reddit post about the app.

Here are a few more comments from sighted people who have installed the app:

"I've only gotten one call but it was a lot of fun. Guy was out of town and needed the hotel room service menu read. We chatted a bit; he was a super funny guy! Hope to take more calls."

"I've only received one call and it was a gentleman who wanted to know if his dog had pooped in a highly trafficked area. It was amusing but I found the poop for him."

"I've actually had this app for over a year, had my first call last month! Had to help someone read their Daughters Birthday Party invite. Was very humbling. 10/10 get this app please."

"I am part of it and have received couple of calls in 2 years since I joined. One caller asked how to use a remote to browse through television, he was showing me his remote and I tried to tell him which button was for what. Wonderful experience. Kudos to the team who built this and made it available."

You can easily become a sighted volunteer by installing the Be My Eyes app on your smart phone!