Touch2See’s Innovative Approach for Visually Impaired Sports Fans
At the forefront of innovation, Orange and Touch2See collaborated to unveil a groundbreaking tablet at the Mobile World Congress 2023. This tablet, designed to enhance the sports-watching experience for individuals with visual disabilities, is reshaping the way we think about accessibility at live events.
This article explores how Touch2See’s touchscreen tablet is revolutionizing the way visually impaired spectators experience live matches.
The Current State of Accessibility: A Call to Action
Even in today’s technologically advanced world, 87% of individuals with visual disabilities feel that sporting events are not easily accessible to them. Touch2See, however, stands as a testament to change, offering a touch-sensitive tablet that allows blind and visually impaired sports enthusiasts to engage with matches with the same intensity as their sighted counterparts.
A Touch-Driven Immersive Experience
At the heart of Touch2See’s innovation is a highly immersive touch experience. During the Mobile World Congress 2023 demonstration, a miniature soccer field came to life on a tablet equipped with a magnetic disk. The 5G network and artificial intelligence combined to transmit real-time sports data captured by stadium cameras, converting it into a sensory and immersive experience. Through vibrations and haptic feedback, users can feel the movements of players, passes, and shots, offering a spatial understanding of the game.
The Power of 5G and Edge Computing in Action
Originally designed for in-stadium use, Touch2See leverages Orange’s expertise and the 5G network with edge computing technology. This ensures that data is processed exactly where it’s produced, optimizing connectivity and latency for a real-time experience. With processing times under 150 milliseconds, users are completely immersed in the game, making the most of the power of 5G and edge computing.
From Concept to Reality: Paris 2024 Olympics
Touch2See’s potential is not just limited to demonstrations. The startup emerged victorious in the Orange Eventech challenge for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. With a €10,000 prize, Touch2See is creating a proof of concept tested at the Orange Vélodrome 5G Lab in Marseille. The goal? Official deployment in stadiums by the Paris 2024 Organizing Committee for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, marking a significant step toward a more inclusive sporting world.
Touch2See: A Concrete Demonstration of Digital Inclusivity
Patrick Chataignier, Partnerships Manager for Marketing and Innovation for the 2024 Olympics at Orange, emphasizes that Touch2See aligns with their commitment as a responsible carrier. This innovative solution serves as a concrete demonstration of the inclusive power of digital technology. Beyond the Olympics, there are plans to extend Touch2See’s availability to visually impaired individuals at other sporting events, echoing Orange’s dedication to digital inclusivity.
Expanding Digital Services for All Abilities
While Touch2See is tailored for blind and visually impaired individuals, Orange recognizes the need for inclusive digital services for all abilities. The company’s teams are actively working on innovations for individuals with other sensory or motor disabilities. From personalized sound services for those with hearing impairments to applications in concerts, movie theaters, and stadiums, Orange is committed to building an inclusive society for everyone.
Closing the Gap: Orange’s Commitment to Digital Equality
Marie-Claire Thoirey, in charge of disability product marketing in Orange’s Societal Engagement and Accessibility Division, highlights the ongoing commitment to digital equality. She emphasizes the need to consider all forms of disability when designing products and services for TV, mobile, and the web. Collaboration with stakeholders is key to building the inclusive society we all aspire to see.
In conclusion, Touch2See’s collaboration with Orange showcases the potential of technology to break barriers and create a more inclusive world. As we look toward the Paris 2024 Olympics, Touch2See is not just a tablet; it’s a symbol of progress, offering a touch-driven gateway to an accessible and immersive sports-watching experience for all.