“AI with a Human Touch” — Aira Relaunches Build AI Programme with Google DeepMind Collaboration

Aira has relaunched its Build AI programme, a major step in developing its hybrid AI and human visual interpreting service for blind and partially sighted users. The initiative, created in partnership with Google DeepMind and Project Astra, aims to train “Aira AI” to handle everyday visual tasks while keeping human interpreters available for complex or sensitive needs.

Speaking to Double Tap, Jenine Stanley, Aira’s Director of Customer Communications, confirmed that the Build AI programme allows users to opt in and contribute anonymised call data to improve AI accuracy. “We are slowly doing this and all of these sessions for Build AI get reviewed. There is no personal identifiable data, and you can opt in or out at any time,” she said. Participants currently receive 30 free minutes in their Aira app, with additional time drops planned throughout the year.

Alicia Omoigui, Vice President of Service Delivery at Aira, explained the company’s approach to combining AI and human support. “The best part about the Aira and Google AI is keeping this safety net — keeping humans in the loop. If the AI hits its limits, or the user simply wants a human eye, the interpreter can take over the call at any time.” The system is designed for “micro moments” such as reading post, checking clothing colours, or scanning a hotel thermostat, while more complex navigation and real-time guidance remain the domain of human interpreters.

The Build AI programme is currently open in the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, but not yet in the UK due to data privacy regulations. For those outside the supported regions, Aira’s Trusted Tester programme invites approved users to trial the AI in real-world scenarios, providing feedback that directly shapes the technology’s evolution.

By blending AI speed with human accuracy, Aira and Google aim to expand access without replacing human interpreters. “We don’t ever have the anticipation of removing the human from this activity,” Alicia stressed. The development signals a growing role for AI in accessibility tools, offering users both choice and efficiency in their daily tasks.

Resources:
Build Program Terms Of Service: https://aira.io/tos-build-ai/
Build Program FAQ: https://aira.io/build-ai-faq/
Trusted Tester Application: https://aira.io/ai/