It’s like having a personal guide in hand. As the user moves around, it announces where he or she is. ‘Trekker’ is a small, lightweight device that uses the Global Positioning System (G.P.S.) to help visually impaired people find their way around. Along with G.P.S. technology, the device also uses talking digital maps and talking menus to provide real-time information on surroundings and also pinpoints user location.

Users can choose a starting point and the destination on the route menu and Trekker will guide them to their destination. As he or she walks along, it announces street names, intersections, addresses, stores and businesses, restaurants and area attractions as they come.

Trekker system can be comfortably worn over the neck or shoulder. It complements existing aids (white canes and guide dogs), but does not replace them. Sleek and discreet, Trekker provides information in the most natural way possible and allows users to record both vocal and written notes.

Trekker employs off-the-shelf hardware for G.P.S. input. Trekker is fully upgradable, so it can expand to accommodate new hardware platforms and more detailed geographic information.