Orientation tools can help you figure out where you are, what direction you need to travel, and whether there are any barriers in your way.
What kinds of wayfinding products are there?
Directions
Many mapping and navigation devices use Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) technology. GPS can pinpoint your location by sending a signal to a satellite. It provides information based on stored maps in your device or app. Turn-by-turn instructions are spoken aloud either while in a vehicle or while walking. One example of a GPS-enabled device is the Victor Reader Trek.
Indoor navigation is provided by wayfinding beacons or indoor maps stored in cloud services. Wayfinding apps are designed for use by persons who are blind. You can use this technology to follow turn-by-turn directions and hear points of interest (locations that have a descriptive tag) to help with understanding where you are in your environment.
Obstacle Detection
Obstacle detection devices can be handheld or wearable. They may be built into a white cane or a phone app. These devices use sonar detection to locate an obstacle and send feedback with sounds or vibrations. The detection range can be set for indoor or outdoor use. One example is the WeWalk Cane.