Echolocation-based Smartphone Assistive Applications in Spatial Perception and Navigation for Blind and Low Vision Users: A Systematic Review

Abstract

With the expected increase of blind and low vision (BLV) individuals, supporting spatial perception and navigation is critical. Echolocation is recognized as effective in conveying spatial information, and the advancement of smartphone technologies has prompted interest in its use as assistive technology. This systematic review assesses the potential of echolocation-based smartphone assistive applications (EBSAs) and formulates a set of design principles to guide future research and implementation. Of the 17 included studies, nine described echolocation-based assistive technologies (EBATs) and eight discussed smartphone assistive applications. Findings reveal that EBATs and smartphone assistive applications facilitate information gain, ease-of-use, and independence. However, EBATs can present steep learning curves and technological limitations, whilst smartphone applications are limited by sensory inaccuracy and compatibility issues. The findings of this study highlight the need to improve user-centric design, integrate existing technologies and multimodal feedback, as well as encourage stakeholder collaboration in design, development, and testing.