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🇧🇪 Belgium /Technology

New voice guidance for ATMs enhances safety for blind and visually impaired users

From VRT NWS · () Dutch

Translated from Dutch and summarized by DistantNews. Read the original for the full story.

At a glance

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  • A new generation of ATMs with enhanced voice guidance has been launched in Ghent, Belgium, to assist blind and visually impaired users.
  • The system, available on nearly 1,000 Batopin ATMs, activates via headphones and provides clear audio instructions for transactions.
  • Users like Gert Basteleus report increased safety, speed, and autonomy when using the ATMs, reducing the need for assistance.

A new generation of ATMs featuring improved voice guidance is enhancing accessibility for blind and visually impaired individuals in Ghent, Belgium. The innovative system, developed by Batopin, activates when a user connects headphones, providing clear audio instructions for navigating transactions.

I no longer have to rely on others.

— Gert BasteleusUser Gert Basteleus describing the increased independence provided by the new ATM system.

Gert Basteleus, one of the first users to test the updated system, expressed her satisfaction, stating, "I no longer have to rely on others." She explained that previously, she needed assistance from bank staff or friends and family. "It works smoothly and feels safe. Everything is clearly explained, and you can skip certain menu options to go faster," Basteleus added.

It works smoothly and it feels safe. Everything is clearly explained and you can skip certain menu options to go faster.

— Gert BasteleusUser Gert Basteleus describing her experience with the new ATM system.

Batopin has already implemented a first generation of ATMs with voice guidance, which has now been refined based on user feedback. Arthur Joos from Batopin noted that the audio guidance now more effectively indicates where to insert a card or locate the keypad, and the volume is adjustable. The audio guidance continues even after the headphones are removed, allowing companions to assist first-time users. To prevent misuse, the screen becomes unreadable during voice guidance, and sensitive information is never shared aloud.

The audio guidance better indicates where the slot is to insert the card, or where the keypad is located. The volume can be adjusted.

— Arthur JoosArthur Joos from Batopin explaining the improvements in the voice guidance system.

Nearly 1,000 ATMs are now equipped with this technology. Basteleus highlighted the system's ease of use, remarking, "It's the first time, but it quickly becomes second nature. I'm not afraid I'll withdraw too much money." She concluded that the system represents a significant advancement, granting her greater autonomy. "Bank apps also work smoothly, but sometimes you still need cash," she said.

For me, it means progress, it gives me more autonomy. The bank apps also work smoothly, but sometimes you still need cash.

— Gert BasteleusUser Gert Basteleus on the personal impact of the enhanced ATM accessibility.
About this summary

Originally published by VRT NWS in Dutch. Translated, summarized, and contextualized automatically by DistantNews, with a note on how the source frames the story. Not individually reviewed before publishing. How this works.

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