Boost for app aimed at vision impaired commuters

See Me, a new app aimed at transforming public transport for commuters who are blind or vision impaired, has secured investment from the iMOVE Cooperative Research Centre (CRC).

Navigating public transport systems can be a daunting task, especially for people who are blind or vision impaired. The app lets users alert bus drivers of their presence at a stop, ensuring they aren’t missed. Once aboard, it notifies users of upcoming stops, delivering a more inclusive and stress-free transport experience.

Developed by Cassie Hames, a software programmer who is legally blind and employed by SAGE Automation, See Me has attracted a $500,000 investment which will pave the way for national trials. Limited trials of the app are scheduled to commence this year in South Australia, Queensland and NSW.

Hames’s See Me app demonstrates how technology can be used to drive positive change in the community.

“The See Me app was an organic idea based on my experiences — and the experiences of many in the blind community — using public transport independently. Going out into the community shouldn’t be less of an experience from one person to the next, regardless of ability, disability or anything else,” she said.

“As a frequent public transport user, I wanted to develop a solution that increases accessibility for all people so that everyone can feel comfortable, confident and safe catching the bus.

“See Me ensures no one is left behind,” Hames said.

iMOVE CRC Managing Director Ian Christensen said the app is more than a technology tool.

“The See Me app is more than just technology — it’s a beacon of hope for countless vision impaired individuals navigating our urban spaces.

“In iMOVE CRC’s mission to drive forward-thinking transport solutions, the See Me app stands out as a testament to what’s possible when innovation meets necessity. We’re proud to back Cassie and SAGE with an initiative that doesn’t just move people, but moves the entire transport industry towards a more inclusive future,” he said.

SAGE got behind Hames’s idea early, seeing the potential of her plan to make a tangible difference in the lives of those needing assistance when catching public transport.

“Cassie has such passion for developing this app, and it aligns perfectly with SAGE’s mission to create a smarter future and better world. The See Me app is more than just a tool — it provides greater inclusiveness while improving safety for people taking public transport. We’re proud to be part of the journey,” SAGE Group Managing Director Adrian Fahey said.

“Cassie’s unique perspective of navigating public transport and the local community is invaluable in bringing a critical voice to the conversation of accessibility in the transport industry.

“It’s so important for us as an industry to help drive an initiative like this, and to bring greater awareness for what future mobility can achieve when embedded in the community,” he said.

Hames’s dedication to improving accessibility in public transport recently earned her international recognition when she won the Holman Prize and accompanying US$25,000 grant from San Francisco’s Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired.

Image credit: iStock.com/zetter