A Scoping Literature Review and Content Analysis of Navigation Apps for Blind and Visually Impaired Users

Abstract

Wayfinding can be challenging for blind and visually impaired people. While some applications exist in helping individuals with low vision to reach their desired destination, no study has examined currently available commercial navigation applications. The aim of this study was to understand what features are useful and should be considered when designing assistive applications for individuals with visual impairment. We conducted a scoping literature review of navigation applications on iOS designed for blind or visually impaired users. Fourteen unique applications were identified to be relevant based on our inclusion criteria. Twenty-eight features that have been included in these apps were summarized and discussed in this study. Finally, we elaborated a set of design recommendations based on these features for future assistive navigation application development.