Google Lookout is an app for visually impaired

Back in 2018, Google announced an application titled Lookout to help the visually impaired. Since the announcement, Google had been testing the application to improve the quality of results. It appears the testing is finally over as Google has officially rolled out the application. It is up in the play store and you can install it for free. However, it is limited only to the Pixel devices and that too in the US only. Google Lookout is an AI-powered application that helps the visually impaired identify the objects around them. Note that inspire of all the testing, Google has cautioned that Google Lookout will not always be “100 percent perfect”. It could be the reason Google hasn’t rolled out the app to everyone and perhaps wants to collect the feedback.

Google Lookout is easy to use, users are recommended to wear their handheld devices on a lanyard around their neck in front of their pockets. After launching the app, all user needs is to point the phone towards the objects he/she wants to identify. The app identifies people, text, and objects as the user moves around. Moreover, Google also points out that users can even start the app with “start Lookout” via Google Assistant. Also, note that Google Lookout doesn’t swarm the users with unnecessary information and tells them about the important things, and that’s actually needed.

It has three modes of operation i.e, Explore, Shopping, and Quick Read mode. The Explore mode is best for daily tasks, chores and identifying new places. The Shopping mode helps with barcodes and currency whereas Quick read mode is developed for sorting out emails and reading signs and labels. Google Lookout really is a good initiative and use of tech by Google. At the moment, Google Lookout is limited to US users and on Pixel devices. And we hope that in the following days Google will roll it out for everyone.