In recent years, mobile operator O2 has been working with the Royal National Institute for the Blind (RNIB) and Australian software developer, RealSAM, to develop ‘In Your Pocket’, the world’s first totally voice-operated smartphone and streaming media device.

At first glance, the device may look like a standard Smartphone with a simple interface, and large easy-to-access buttons, however, its voice-controlled technology is based on an artificial intelligence platform that goes well beyond the capabilities of personal assistants.

If you have been searching for an easy to use mobile phone you have probably come across the Doro brand. In Your Pocket makes use of a Doro handset, O2 mobile connectivity and RealSAM interactive speech functionality.

In Your Pocket’s comprehensive media library includes a subscription to RNIB Newsagent, access to RNIB’s Talking Books service (with access to over 100,000 audiobooks free of charge), as well as podcasts, weather updates, and location information.

Last December, RealSAM launched their ‘Be My Eyes’ integration making it possible for In Your Pocket users to make a Be My Eyes call through voice commands. Be My Eyes is a free app that connects blind and partially sighted people to a network of over 1 Million volunteers who can see and describe to you what your phone sees.

As the phone is completely voice activated it is suitable for any level of sight loss including users who are black blind. To use voice activation, simply push a button and ask for what you want. It’s like having an Amazon Echo or Google Home device in your hand, except it’s designed specifically for visually impaired users.

In Your Pocket is a great device for individuals who regularly use RNIB’s Newsagent and Talking Books services and are looking for an easy-to-use mobile phone. Advanced tech users may wish to seek other alternatives as the In Your Pocket device does not have email access, a web browser and several other features currently found on the majority of modern smartphones. The device may also not be appropriate for individuals with memory issues due to the number of voice commands that need to be learnt.

At the time of writing (March 2019) In Your Pocket is currently available for £22 a month (24-month contract) or a £528 single payment (24-month contract) with unlimited UK phone calls and 3GB of data per month.

For more information, please visit the In Your Pocket website.

Free demonstrations can also be booked at our Sight Centre in Truro (Cornwall) by calling us on 01872 261110.