Soundscape Comes to Android: Accessible Navigation for All

Soundscape is finally on Android. The beloved navigation app for blind and visually impaired users, once a Microsoft research project, has been revived by the Scottish Tech Army and is now available for open beta testing on Google Play.

After Microsoft retired Soundscape in 2023, the Scottish Tech Army, alongside dedicated volunteers and PWC’s tech-for-good team, rebuilt the app to keep it alive for the community. The iOS version has been running successfully, with over 14,000 demos, and now Android users can experience accessible 3D audio navigation for the first time.

This chat dives into the journey of bringing Soundscape to Android, the importance of community feedback, and the open-source, volunteer-driven model that keeps the app free at the point of use. Kirsty Mcintosh shares insights on how user feedback is shaping the app, the challenges of sustainable funding, and why charities and volunteers are crucial to the project’s future.

Download the Soundscape beta on Google Play and share your feedback:

Email: [email protected]

Relevant Links
Scottish Tech Army: https://scottishtecharmy.org
Soundscape Feedback: [email protected]

Get in touch with us by email at [email protected] or connect on WhatsApp at https://www.doubletaponair.com/whatsapp

Follow on:
YouTube: https://www.doubletaponair.com/youtube
X (formerly Twitter): https://www.doubletaponair.com/x
Instagram: https://www.doubletaponair.com/instagram
TikTok: https://www.doubletaponair.com/tiktok
Threads: https://www.doubletaponair.com/threads
Facebook: https://www.doubletaponair.com/facebook
LinkedIn: https://www.doubletaponair.com/linkedin

Subscribe to the Podcast:
Apple: https://www.doubletaponair.com/apple
Spotify: https://www.doubletaponair.com/spotify
RSS: https://www.doubletaponair.com/podcast
iHeadRadio: https://www.doubletaponair.com/iheart

About Double Tap
Hosted by the insightful duo, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, Double Tap is a treasure trove of information for anyone who’s blind or partially sighted and has a passion for tech. Steven and Shaun not only demystify tech, but they also regularly feature interviews and welcome guests from the community, fostering an interactive and engaging environment. Tune in every day of the week, and you’ll discover how technology can seamlessly integrate into your life, enhancing daily tasks and experiences, even if your sight is limited.

“Double Tap” is a registered trademark of Double Tap Productions Inc.