Google’s new programme Project Guideline will enable low-vision people to run unguided

Project Guideline’s artificial intelligence is designed to replace guide dogs. The programme is still in the early stages of development.

Google is actively testing a new project which, using artificial intelligence, can help blind people play sports. The way it works is as follows: the user attaches their Android smartphone onto a special waistband. A special app, using the smartphone’s camera, tracks the race to ensure that the runner does not stray from the planned route.

The app interacts with the runner by sending audio signals to the bone-conducting headphones the sportsmen are wearing on the run. The more they drift from their intended path, the louder the signal received. It is worth noting that an internet connection is not required.

The program is currently being developed by Google in collaboration with Thomas Panek, President and CEO of Guiding Eyes for the Blind, the nonprofit organisation also dedicated to training guide dogs.