TECH TO KNOW
APPS THAT CONNECT
These five apps help people overcome barriers and connect with the world around them .
WORDS / JENNA BUEGE
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A blind traveler uses their cell phone for help with navigation .
Part of the magic of travel is connection . From meeting new , like-minded people to forging a connection with a place itself , the ability to link up with others and freely explore distant lands leads to travelers feeling changed and fulfilled . Luckily , thanks to modern technology , connecting while on the road is easier than ever .
These five apps were designed to help people overcome barriers and connect with the world around them . Plus , each app is available on both Android and IOS .
AVA : TRANSCRIPTIONS & CAPTIONS Those who have wished closed captioning existed in the real world will be happy to discover Ava : Transcriptions & Captions ( Ava ), a live captioning app that ’ s perfect for travel . Created to empower deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals , Ava uses AI to instantly transcribe what people are saying . The tool is 95 % accurate and even allows users to add chosen terminology to their custom dictionary . Ava users love the app for its ability to help them have deeper conversations with close and new friends alike .
AIRA EXPLORER Pronounced “ eye-ruh ,” Aira provides people who are blind or have low vision with access
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