GPS navigation apps 

“Professional-grade GPS navigation apps tailored for blind and visually impaired users, providing reliable audio guidance, turn-by-turn directions, and detailed location awareness to enhance safe, independent mobility.”

  1. 1: Nearby Explorer (Full + Online)
    A full-featured GPS app designed for blind users by the American Printing House for the Blind. It provides turn-by-turn guidance, points of interest, transit data, and narrated street intersections. The Full version includes onboard NAVTEQ maps for offline use in the U.S. and Canada, while the Online version works indoors with internet connectivity.
    • Cost: Around $79.99 (Full version); Online version subscription-based
    • Platform: Android
    • Region: Primarily U.S. and Canada

Information adapted from the American Printing House for the Blind, Nearby Explorer User Guide (2020).

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  1. 2: Seeing Eye GPS
    A fully accessible turn-by-turn navigation app built for iPhone users. It offers a simplified interface with Route, POI, and Location screens, spoken street names with “clock face” orientation, automatic rerouting when off-course, and a “LookAround Wand” for quick location awareness.
    • Cost: Subscription-based (monthly and annual plans) with a free trial available
    • Platform: iOS only
    • Region: Available in North America and some additional regions depending on App Store availabi

⸻For IPhone Users

Get it on the App Store
  3. 3: BlindSquare
    A widely used self-voicing GPS app designed for blind, deafblind, and partially sighted users. It delivers detailed audio information about intersections and nearby points of interest and integrates with third-party navigation apps for routing. Also supports indoor navigation using beacon technology.
    • Cost: One-time purchase (around $39.99)
    • Platform: iOS only
    • Region: Available worldwide (supports multiple languages and regions)
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  1. Lazarillo
    A free and inclusive wayfinding app that offers turn-by-turn audio guidance and announcements of surrounding streets and places. Users can search, save favorite locations, and explore indoor maps where supported. Developed with direct input from blind users.
    • Cost: Free
    • Platform: iOS and Android
    • Region: Available worldwide
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  1. GoodMaps (Outdoors & Indoor Navigation)
    Provides precise indoor and outdoor navigation, using advanced LiDAR and camera-based positioning for meter-level accuracy. Useful in complex spaces like airports and malls, with immersive 3D maps and AR view for users with partial vision. Offers detailed spoken directions for blind and low-vision travelers.
    • Cost: Free
    • Platform: iOS and Android
    • Region: Available in select regions worldwide, with indoor navigation supported in participating venues (e.g., U.S. airports and public buildings)
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