Remote reading systems for the blind: A potential application of virtual presence

A reading service for the blind is proposed in which an on-call remotely located sighted reader could read to and interact with blind clients as if they were in the same room, using telecommunication and virtual presence technologies. An initial step towards such a system is described, in which the blind (or other print- handicapped) individual faxes material he desires read to a sighted operator who reads it back to him over the telephone. The method combines the advantages of automated reading machines (i.e., 24-hour on-call availability) with those of a sighted reader (i.e., intelligent scanning, information extraction and interpretation, ability to deal with handwriting and pictures, etc.). In addition, reader/operators need not be mobile and can operate from home. A number of potential enhancements promise operation more closely approaching real-time interaction between the reader and the blind individual.