Intel Reader – Speaks Printed Text
Intel is launching the Reader, a mobile device the size of a paperback book that converts printed text to digital text and then reads it aloud to the user. It combines a 5 megapixel camera with an Intel Atom processor, allowing users to point, shoot and listen to printed text. Storage is through a 4GB Intel Solid State Drive, while a rechargeable 3300 mAh 6-cell lithium-ion battery allows for four hours of continuous speech. Earphones are included for those who wish to listen privately to words being read. The Intel Reader weighs only 1.38 lbs (.63kg)
The Intel Reader can also be used together with a Portable Capture Station in order to capture large amounts of text. This way, an entire book can be easily captured for reading later.
The Intel Reader currently sells at $1,500, while the Portable Capture Station sells for $400.
The original concept for the Intel Reader came from Ben Foss, currently the Director of Access Technology for Intel. He was identified in elementary school as having symptoms of dyslexia.
Foss Said:
As someone who is part of this dyslexic community, I am thrilled to be able to help level the playing field for people who, like me, do not have easy access to the printed word. Feelings of loneliness are often the experience of not being able to read easily. We hope to open the doors for people in these communities. The Intel Reader is a tool that can help give people with dyslexia, low-vision, blindness or other reading-based disabilities access to the resources they need to participate and be successful in school, work and life.
The Intel Reader has been endorsed by the International Dyslexia Association as an important advance in assistive technology. Intel is also working with the Association of Assistive Technology Act Programs, the Council for Exceptional Children, Lighthouse International, the National Center for Learning Disabilities and the National Federation of the Blind to help reach and address the needs of people who have difficulty reading print.
No doubt the usefulness of device is a milestone in steps toward better education system for disabled persons, yet considering the price of the Reaer, it seems to be out of range of layman as currently costing around 120,000 PKR. Even then it is a big invention, and will show its fruit.
Don’t know how long we have to wait for this product to hit our markets.
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