We’ve already discussed high-tech devices for partially sighted users such as the Orcam MyEye in past e-bulletins, and while these are incredible pieces of technology, they typically cost between two and five thousand dollars, putting them out of reach for most users. Today, we are going to look at similar type of device that costs a fraction of that price but still offers some great features for individuals with low vision.

Relumino is a Samsung app that harnesses the power of Samsung Gear VR and turns it into an incredible piece of assistive technology. The Samsung Gear VR headset retails for about $60 CDN, and as long as you pair it with a Samsung Galaxy 8 or Note 7 (or above) then you can access this app. Please note that because this is a Samsung app, only Samsung smartphones are compatible. But, any model Samsung VR Gear will work, so you might be able to find an older headset for next to no cost.

It’s important to note that Relumino does not provide support for the totally blind. Here’s the explanation provided in the user manual:

“A person with a view of FC 5~10 inches (meaning a person can count the fingers within 5~10 inch distance from his or her eyes) has the best effect of Relumino. If a person cannot recognize any object within FC 5~10 inches from his or her eyes, Relumino may not be of any help. The effect of Relumino depends on each individual based on their symptoms.”

But what exactly does the app do? Essentially, the app processes images projected through the rear camera of a smartphone and applies filters and colors and other visual aids in order to help persons with visual impairments. Here are a few of the settings and functions that are currently available:

Partial View Function – For those with a blind spot or tunnel vision, this function allows you to adjust your field of view according to your specific needs.

Screen Color Setting – Corrects excess light by applying a color filter to the entire screen.

Reading Mode (Color Reversal Mode) – This mode reverses colors in high contrast in order to read onscreen text, plus it also provides additional functions such as zooming, screen capture, and more.

Flash – Turns on the camera flash in order to better illuminate objects.

Outline Setting – Clearly shows outlines of people or objects. Outline color and thickness is adjustable.

Brightness Adjustment – Adjusts the brightness and darkness of the screen

Contrast Adjustment – Adjusts the contrast of the screen so that bight colors are brighter and dark colors are darker.

Relumino is available for free for Samsung Gear VR users. To learn more about Relumino, click here (new window).

This post originally appeared on the AT Help Desk (new window) website.

Tags: apps, assistive technology, AT HelpDesk, Atlantic Regional Office