The Be My Eyes app has become one of the most talked-about app launches for the blind in recent memory, receiving a whirlwind of mainstream attention not seen since the early days of Fleksy. Media sources and users have been weighing in, giving both user testimonials and prognostications of the future's viability.
Just four days after launch, the app boasts over 56,000 helpers and over 4,300 blind or visually impaired users. Impressively, this over 10-to-1 ratio has remained intact as more people have installed the program.
The Kim Komando Show gave the app a mention on a recent broadcast, a program broadcast on hundreds of radio stations across the country.
An interesting blog post from Christian Heilmann discusses some of the possible benefits and pitfalls of the service. Christian worked on other crowdsourced projects such as Yahoo! Answers.
Twitter user @Bryansmart posted this topical reminder to users of the service:
Remember to thank your @bemyeyes volunteer. Their only payment is your gratitude, and knowing that they helped someone.
— Bryan Smart (@BryanSmart) January 17, 2015As for the future of the service and whether it'll remain free, cofounder Thelle Kristensen stated on our podcast interview last week that the service has funding to continue through September. Beyond that, it's anyone's guess.
Have you tried out the app, either as a requester or volunteer? Post your experiences in the comments.
Category: NewsNo one has commented on this post.
You must be logged in to post comments.
Or Forgot username or password?
Register for free
J.J. Meddaugh is an experienced technology writer and computer enthusiast. He is a graduate of Western Michigan University with a major in telecommunications management and a minor in business. When not writing for Blind Bargains, he enjoys travel, playing the keyboard, and meeting new people.
