Mobile phones are designed to aid us in our routine tasks, calling our loved ones or surfing the internet to get an update on what’s happening across the globe, for example. Along with these, many other routine tasks have also become more accessible since the inception of these handy devices.
But life isn’t the same for everyone, and circumstantial expectations are always there. A mobile phone can hustle for people with problematic eyes. If you have shortsightedness, you might not be able to use your smartphone easily as someone with perfect eyesight does.
If you or one of your loved ones is visually impaired, you have come to the right place!
Several specialized mobile phones for the visually impaired are designed to make life easier. This blog will discuss how these mobile phones are different and which should be your choice to bring ease to your life. Stay tuned and make life easier for you and your loved ones.
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Specialized Versus Regular Phones
Regular phones are routine with basic assistive features to ease your normal usage. At the same time, specialized phones are built for the needs of visually impaired people.
The specialized phones are designed for people with eyesight problems. Their designs and functionality are made to the requirements of a visually impaired person. Most of their features are easy to use and aid the visually impaired in their daily smartphone usage.
On the contrary, regular mobile phones are standard smartphones that can still be used by visually impaired people, depending on the severity of their condition. Regular smartphones have built-in assistive features to help you perform your tasks efficiently. If you can see objects, regular smartphones will work for you.
Let’s discuss the pros and cons of regular versus smartphones so you get a better idea of how they distinguish from each other.
Pros and Cons of Regular Phones
| SR. No | Pros of Regular Phones ✔ | Cons of Regular Phones ❌ |
| 1 | You can adjust the text size to amplify your experience on the internet and social media. | These phones can be more complicated compared to specialized telephones. |
| 2 | You can choose your device’s screen size since multiple options are available in the market. | Regular phones use touchscreen keyboards which are difficult to feel compared to physical keyboards. |
| 3 | Regular phones have voice recognition as a standard feature. | Regular phones are typically more expensive. |
| 4 | Regular phones have AI assistance, like SIRI and google. These can help users navigate their phones easily. |
Pros and Cons of Specialized Phones
| SR. No | Pros of Specialized Phones ✅ | Cons of Specialized Phones ❌ |
| 1 | Specialized mobile phones for the visually impaired are designed to meet the requirements of visually impaired people. | Not as satisfying for tech-savvy people. |
| 2 | There are different design options you can choose from. Some designs include flip phones, candy bar phones, and Semi-smartphones. | The software installed in these phones is stripped down. |
| 3 | Usually more affordable compared to regular smartphones since they focus on sight assistance rather than expensive hardware. | |
| 4 | These specialized phones have large buttons, clearer screens, large texts, and features like an SOS button, which is helpful for emergency calls. |
What Features to Look For
Are you confused about what features to look for in a smartphone, especially if you or one of your loved ones have a visual imparity? We have a list of features to help you out of your confusion.
Screen Size
If your eyesight is wrong, you want to look for a phone that comes large screen size. The larger the size, the easier it will be to see the screen and scan through the content of your choice. Secondly, a larger screen would also mean a bigger keyboard, which is easier to type.
Button Size
If you have problems with your eyesight, you might want to look for a phone that comes with physical buttons. These buttons are raised above the screen, which can be felt with the tip of your fingers. A Phone with such buttons could be handy for carrying out your routine tasks on mobile.
Text Size
Before choosing your new smartphone, look for the option to adjust its text size. Don’t go for a phone that doesn’t allow you to enlarge the device’s text, which is quite rare. Most modern smartphones come with the option of adjusting text sizes so you can change them according to your visual imparity.
Speech Recognition
Most modern smartphones have a built-in microphone, which can be used for speaking commands loudly. For example, if you can’t see the buttons when calling your wife, you may give a voice command and ask the voice assistant to dial your wife’s number. Make sure to look for this feature in your new phone. Also, choose a phone that has better AI technology so that your commands can be interpreted easily.
Battery Life
Before you invest your money into a phone, make sure it has a longer battery life so you don’t have to look for a charger now and then. Consider phones with a larger battery that can last for days so you can get rid of the hustle.
Durability
Mobile phones can quickly be dropped. The situation gets worse with a problem with your eyesight. Therefore, look for a sturdy and durable phone with a substantial screen and overall design that prevents it from accidental drops. This will avoid you from getting hit by the cost of new purchases every time your phone drops.
Ease of Use
If you have a problem with your vision, you need to look for a phone that is easy to use, without complicated systems or any software that is difficult to manage. Some users might find IOS a bit difficult to use compared to the operating system of an android phone, for example, Marshmallow. So, when purchasing your new phone, consider its operating system and use case.
Helpful Additions
You should also consider features that are helpful to your visual needs. For example, some smartphones have the SOS or panic button. This feature will alert your chosen contacts whenever you need help. The mobile phones for visually impaired seniors in the UK are specially equipped with this button to warn their selected contacts in an emergency.
Other helpful additions include loudspeakers so you can hear things clearly and Bluetooth compatibility to connect your hands-free whenever you wish.
Best Regular Mobile Phone for Visually Impaired
So, without further due, let’s jump straight to the list of the best regular phones with multiple accessibility features.
- Best Phone for Battery Life
- Best Phones Under £200
- Affordable SIM-Free Phones
- Best Phones for Music
- Best 5G Phones
Best Phones for Battery Life – Realme GT Neo 3T
The best phone for battery life on our list is Realme GT Neo 3T. We choose this device because it offers great utility and has modern features such as an OLED screen, powerful SD870 snapdragon processor, and multiple cameras.
| Pros | Cons |
| 5000 mAh battery that lasts for days | The phone doesn’t have a solid and tempting body. |
| It comes with an 80W fast charger | There isn’t an audio jack in the phone. |
Best Phone Under £200 – Redmi Note 11
Redmi Note 11 lies on top when it comes to budget smartphones. The phone was released with a price tag of £199, significantly impacting the smartphone market due to its ever-promising features. The mobile phone has five cameras, a full HD display, and a long-lasting battery.
The device is equipped with android 11, which can be updated to android 12. Other notable features of the device include dual SIM support, a gorilla glass three display, 33W fast charging, and an IP53 rating to protect it from dust and water.
Other Specifications of Redmi Note 11 include:
- Display: 6.43-inch, Full HD+
- SoC: Snapdragon 680
- RAM: 4/6GB
- Storage: 64/128GB
- Cameras: 50, 8, 2, and 2MP
- Front camera: 13MP
- Battery: 5,000mAh
- Software: Android 11
Affordable SIM-Free Phones – Samsung Galaxy Note 4
Samsung Note 4 is a follow-up to note 3. The device was initially launched as a premium product. However, its price decreased, and it now falls into the category of affordable SIM-free phones.
The device has impressive features, including a 2k QHD screen, a snapdragon processor, and fast charging. Note 4 has an elegant metal design with S-pen Support for improved mobile functionality. The device has a MicroSD card slot, allowing you to add additional space.
Note 4 has a fantastic user experience backed by some of the device’s amazing features. The device can be the best mobile phone for the visually impaired because its larger screen works, even for people with problematic eyesight.
Best Phones for Music – Sony Xperia 1 III
Sony Xperia could be your choice if you want a phone with loudspeakers. The device is helpful for the visually impaired because its speakers are loud enough to warn nearby people. The machine costs you somewhere around £ 1,100.
The display size is 6.5 inches, which should be optimal, even for people with vision problems. The device has a battery of 4,500 mAh, which can last for a whole day.
| Pros | Cons |
| 4K OLED display | The device charges slowly. |
| Front Facing Stereo Speakers | The mobile gets heated under a heavy load. |
| Durable battery | The dual-length camera doesn’t produce optimal results. |
| Wind Filter |
Best 5G Phone – S22 Ultra
The latest release of the 5G phone is considered a blockbuster worldwide. The device comes with various assistive features that are helpful for the visually impaired. S 22 Ultra has a 6.8-inch AMOLED display that supports the resolution up to 3088 x 1440.
S22 ultra has a vision booster technology that ensures excellent visibility, even if the phone is under direct Sunlight. This feature should be an excellent help, especially for people with vision problems.
| Pros | Cons |
| Sizeable 6.8-inch screen with high resolution | Expensive price tag |
| Bright and vibrant AMOLED display | It may be challenging to hold with one hand |
| Compatible with accessibility features | Some features may require extra setup time. |
| Advanced camera features for enhanced zoom. | No headphone jack |
| Long battery life | No expandable storage |
| Good processing power | Some users may prefer more straightforward UI |
Best Specialist Mobile Phone for Visually Impaired
The following models have been specifically designed for the visually impaired.
Blind Shell
Blind Shell is famous for creating accessible specialist smartphones. The phone is designed for blind people to provide users with the most understanding, sympathetic, and inclusive mobile experience. Three models are available so you can choose the one that suits you most.
Blind Shell Classic
- The phone speaks out loud about what you’re typing on the keyboard.
- SOS button
- The object tagging application helps you distinguish between icons and shapes. This helps find the right app.
- Voice control for commands.
- Large, raised buttons.
Blind Shell classic LTE
- Talking phone – Keyboard is vocalized.
- SOS button
- Raised buttons for the visually impaired.
- Quick dial – assign a contact to each number.
- Adjust the speed and intonation of the phone voice.
- Change the color scheme as per your wish.
Bottom Line
Mobile phones for the visually impaired are not only designed to make communication more accessible and convenient but also to enhance the independence and autonomy of visually impaired individuals.
The advent of technologies such as screen readers, voice assistants, and haptic feedback has transformed how visually impaired people interact with their phones and the world around them.
Many mobile phone options in the market cater to the needs of the visually impaired, with features designed to help them quickly navigate and use their devices.
These phones offer a range of benefits, including text-to-speech capabilities, voice recognition, and accessible apps that allow visually impaired individuals to perform various tasks independently.
Overall, mobile phones for the visually impaired have become essential in promoting accessibility and inclusivity. They have empowered visually impaired individuals to live more independently and confidently and have given them access to the same communication and technology as everyone else.
As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more advancements that will further enhance the mobile phone experience for the visually impaired.
