News Summary

At CES 2025, WeWALK introduced its Smart Cane 2, an AI-enhanced mobility aid for visually impaired users. The London-based startup’s latest offering is a redesign of its previous model, featuring advanced sensors from TDK, AI capabilities, and improved user ergonomics. The Smart Cane 2 offers turn-by-turn navigation, obstacle detection, and a ChatGPT-powered voice assistant, providing users with hands-free access to information about their surroundings. It can also connect to smartphones via Bluetooth for additional navigation and public transportation details. Pre-orders for the cane are available, with two pricing options: $850 with a $4.99 monthly subscription for the voice assistant or $1150 for full AI access without additional fees. The Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) will incorporate the Smart Cane 2 into its training program, commencing in February 2025, to gather data on cane usage and enhance user engagement and mobility.