Heriot-Watt spin-out Alana and the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) have teamed up on tech to support blind and partially sighted people.

Alana is artificial intelligence (AI) software that can understand and respond to users in a human-like, conversational way, carry out human-like conversation, and can be used as a new tool for people with sight loss.

The tech delivers conversation based on context, device, and location, learning who the user is and remembering previous conversations. It then adapts to provide a personal experience for each person.

Alana will initially be used to enhance the existing support offered by RNIB. Through its Sight Loss Advice Service, the charity currently offers support over the phone, in eye clinics and digitally.

It also provides information on eye conditions, legal rights, education, technology, and employment alongside emotional well-being services and signposting to services and resources offered by local societies.

AI has the potential to transform the way blind and partially sighted people access information. For example, the spin-out is developing a tool which will identify objects and find further information about one’s physical environment, automating the BeMyEyes App, which connects those who have sight loss with fully sighted volunteers.

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Lance Blackstone, Alana’s non-executive chairman, said: “Our first encounter with RNIB was a revelation. I do not think I have ever been moved quite so much in a business presentation before.

“When both sides began to fully appreciate what Alana can do to enhance the lives of blind people, and particularly those who are lonely or isolated, it was a humbling moment.”

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David Clarke, Director of Services at RNIB, said: “Advances in technology and connectivity have transformed the lives of blind and partially sighted people for the better.

“Using the digital tools we have today, like electronic braille, screen reading software and specialist smartphone apps, it’s never been more possible for people with sight loss to lead full and independent lives.

“As technology continues to develop, it brings a host of wonderful new opportunities. The advent of AI is particularly exciting with wide-reaching possibilities, and we are looking forward to working with Alana to see how this new technology can benefit our community.”

The Heriot-Watt spin-out has already seen previous success with its innovative AI technology. In March, the team saw a huge jump in demand as the national lockdown came into effect.

Alana’s ‘touch-free’ interface allowed many users unable to converse with others as they would normally due to the coronavirus to remain connected.