The rapid progress in technology has significantly improved the accessibility of hearing aids. However, even with these advancements, a quality hearing aid from a reputable company could still cost upwards of $3000, making them inaccessible to many. In response to this, two Stanford students have developed an innovative and affordable solution called TranscribeGlass.
The gadget can be attached to any eyeglass, transforming them into a compact smart glass with a display that projects subtitles in real-time using speech-to-text recognition technology.
The TranscribeGlass is a wearable assistive technology attachment for eyeglasses that incorporates a small display that sits in front of either the right or left eye. Powered by transcription software, it can instantly transform spoken language into subtitles in real-time. During the beta program, the device is available for just $55, with a planned retail price of $95 after its official release.
The CEO, Madhav Lavakare, and co-founder Tom Pritsky designed and developed the Transcribe Glass. Pritsky is also the founder of Stanford’s Club for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and has experienced bilateral hearing loss since childhood.
Unlike many augmented reality solutions, TranscribeGlass is not only affordable but also boasts a lightweight design, ensuring comfortable wear throughout the day. Additionally, users can integrate their preferred speech-to-text recognition software through the mobile app, enhancing its versatility.
Users can adjust the font size, select languages, and utilize the accompanying app to store all transcriptions conveniently. The TranscribeGlass can last up to a day on a single charge. Importantly, this device caters not only to individuals with hearing difficulties but also to anyone who could benefit from real-time subtitles in various situations, such as the workplace or even in a cinema theatre.