A wave of new technology could soon improve everyday life for many of the 250 million people with impaired vision.

"Years ago, I couldn't do financial things without help," said Mario Percinic, a blind IT professional and accessibility expert.

"Now I use a screenreader with my online banking," said Percinic, who co-hosts a podcast on technology and accessibility called EBU Access Cast.

BENGALURU : The differently-abled in the city can get a chance to be a part of what has been termed as India’s first Accessible Bowling, to be held on Church Street. The event has been organised by Enable Travel, a startup that focuses on curating travels for the differently-abled. It is open for all categories of the disabled, the physically-disabled, visually-impaired and those with hearing problems. Speaking with City Express, Debolin Sen, founder of Enable Travels, says, “This is a first-of-its-kind bowling experience and it is open for all categories of the differently-abled.

Visually impaired to get their telephone bills for free in UAE.

Etisalat on Sunday announced the launch of a 'Talking Bill' service that enables visually impaired customers to access bill summary details of their account free of charge.

Customers can subscribe to the service at no extra cost by dialing 101 or visiting any of Etisalat's retail stores. Upon successful activation, customers will get an automated call from Etisalat to explain the summary bill details of their account in English or Arabic from next month onwards.

The law has to be implemented," said the judges. Advocate Abha Singh said the Development Control Regulations and other laws (see box) make it mandatory for public and commercial buildings to be disabled-friendly. The disabilities Act, in fact, empowers civic authorities to deny completion certificates to establishments if they fail to provide such facilities.

"Establishments in Mumbai have been issued completion certificates and are allowed to function despite not having ramps or accessible bathrooms," she said.