Microsoft Soundscape app empowers people who are blind or have low vision to explore the world

Published 5th March 2018

Soundscape is a research project by Microsoft,  available today for free on iOS and iPhone in the US and UK. 

Soundscape empowers more people to explore the world around them through a 3D audio experience. The Soundscape app enriches your perception of surroundings as you walk, helping you get where you want to go. 

Microsoft's technology enables you to set audio beacons at familiar destinations and landmarks, and then use 3D audio cues to improve your ambient awareness as you make your way to the destination. By simply connecting a stereo headset, you can explore the outdoor world with more independence. With 3D audio, the sounds are perceived as coming from the point of interest, so the user can build a mental image of what’s around from the acoustic environment – the soundscape – of sounds in the environment and those from the Soundscape app. 

Visit the Soundscape project page for more information, share feedback through the accessibility UserVoice and contact the Disability Answer Desk for support. 

(Text from Microsoft Accessibility Blog)