Latest news with #accessibility
BBC News
8 hours ago
- Automotive
- BBC News
Keep cars off Cullercoats RNLI accessibility ramp plea
Beach visitors have been told to stop parking on an RNLI accessibility ramp because they are hindering rescue efforts. The organisation said that drivers were ignoring double yellow lines near the Cullercoats ramp in North Tyneside, delaying volunteer rescuers reaching volunteer Alex Bateman said he had had to abandon a recent rescue mission because he could not get parked nearby."If I was the only tractor driver available that would have really slowed down the launch of the vehicle and lifeboat into the sea," he said. Sarah Whitelaw, who volunteers at Cullercoats RNLI, said: "When someone is in the water and needs assistance, every second counts."She said that she appreciated that parking around Cullercoats was difficult, but keeping the accessibility ramp car-free at all times was essential."Quite often we launch within five to six minutes, so we need our crews to get down as soon as possible," Miss Whitelaw said."We're seeing all sorts of shouts from people swimming and getting into difficulty, to people on kayaks or paddleboards getting into distress." Follow BBC North East on X, Facebook, Nextdoor and Instagram.
BBC News
13 hours ago
- Business
- BBC News
Aquasplash awarded dementia friendly certification
AquaSplash Jersey have been awarded Dementia Friendly Business status, after a "significant programme" of is a waterpark and leisure centre, located at the Waterfront Centre in St scheme asks organisations to provide training for staff, as well as to make an ongoing pledge to maintain inclusivity and gain certification, the company has trained staff at all levels, reinstalled a Hearing Loop, identified quiet times for the public, and begun improving its signs. Claudine Snape, chief executive of Dementia Jersey, said: "A huge well done to AquaSplash for achieving their Dementia Friendly Business certification! "Their dedication truly highlights the power of this initiative. "When businesses step up and embrace these practices, they're not just improving their service - they're actively shaping an island that's compassionate and inclusive for all those living with dementia."
Yahoo
a day ago
- Business
- Yahoo
U.S. Shaftless Home Elevator Market Set to Reach USD 152.12 Million by 2033
Fueled by immense renovation spending and a massive aging population, the market holds vast potential. Shaftless elevators turn high home equity into a practical investment for long-term accessibility, value, and independent living. Chicago, July 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The U.S. shaftless home elevators market was valued at US$ 126.84 million in 2024 and is expected to reach US$ 152.12 million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 2.04% during the forecast period 2025–2033. The United States shaftless home elevators market is currently undergoing a profound transformation, evolving from a niche luxury item into a mainstream solution for modern living. Driven by powerful demographic shifts and a renewed focus on home functionality, this market is poised for significant and sustained growth. As homeowners increasingly seek to future-proof their residences for a lifetime of use, the demand for accessible, space-efficient, and aesthetically pleasing mobility solutions has never been stronger. This report delves into the intricate dynamics of this burgeoning industry, presenting 70 prominent statistics that paint a detailed picture of the market's landscape as of 2025, highlighting the immense promise and opportunity that lies within. Get a Glimpse of the Report with a Free Sample Copy: The versatility of product design is a cornerstone of the expanding United States shaftless home elevators market. The most common configuration is the "through-the-floor" elevator, which ingeniously travels between two floors via a discreet aperture in the upper level's floor. Gaining significant traction is the pneumatic vacuum elevator, which utilizes air pressure for movement and often boasts a sleek, cylindrical, and transparent design that adds a futuristic touch to home interiors. While most models feature a practical square or rectangular footprint to maximize cabin space, some forward-thinking manufacturers cater to high-end design sensibilities by offering elegant octagonal or even fully round glass elevator options. Key Findings in United States Shaftless Home Elevators Market Market Forecast (2033) US$ 152.12 million CAGR 2.04% By Type Enclosed (87.38%) By Shape Type Round (58.86%) By Technology Traction (41.5%) By Capacity 340-544 kg (42.0%) Top Drivers An aging U.S. population strongly drives demand for home accessibility. Increasing homeowner focus on renovations adds significant elevator market value. High demand for space-efficient elevator solutions in existing U.S. homes. Top Trends Integration with smart home technology for greater user control, convenience. Rising consumer demand for aesthetically pleasing and highly customizable elevator designs. Growing focus on developing energy-efficient and sustainable home elevator systems. Top Challenges High initial product and installation costs can deter potential buyers. Shortage of skilled technicians for proper elevator installation and maintenance. Navigating complex local building codes and strict permitting approval processes. Analyzing Capacity, Dimensions, and Performance Metrics for Today's Shaftless Elevators Performance and specifications are critical differentiators in the United States shaftless home elevators market, with manufacturers offering a wide array of options to meet diverse needs. Standard shaftless elevators are typically engineered with a weight capacity ranging from 350 to 550 pounds, suitable for one to three passengers. However, for more demanding requirements, some models can safely handle heavier loads, with capacities reaching up to 770 pounds. Compact, single-person shaftless elevators are a popular choice, often featuring a capacity of around 375 pounds. For full wheelchair accessibility, larger and more robust models are available, with typical capacities around 485 to 500 pounds. At the highest end, heavy-duty options are available with impressive capacities of 750 lbs, 950 lbs, and even up to a remarkable 1,400 lbs. The interior cabin of a standard shaftless elevator is often dimensioned around 27 9/16' x 23 5/8' x 78 11/16', while larger, wheelchair-accessible cabins can measure approximately 33 7/16' x 49 3/16' x 78 11/16'. The compact footprint is a key selling point in the shaftless home elevators market, with some models occupying as little as 7 square feet of floor space. The travel distance for most shaftless elevators is limited to two stops, which translates to a vertical rise of approximately 13 to 14 feet, with some models specified to travel up to 168 inches (14 feet). The typical travel speed is a smooth and steady 30 feet per minute, though some models may operate at a more gentle speed of up to 16 feet per minute. For a successful installation, a minimum ceiling height of 89 inches is often a prerequisite. Identifying Key End-User Segments Driving Market Expansion and Broader Adoption The primary engine of growth for the United States shaftless home elevators market is overwhelmingly the residential sector. This dominance is being further fueled by a notable societal trend: the rise of multigenerational households, which inherently increases the need for in-home mobility solutions that cater to family members of all ages and abilities. While residential applications are the focus, shaftless vertical platform lifts are also finding applications in certain commercial settings to meet accessibility mandates. Beyond single-family homes, dormitories and condominiums are identified as key end-user segments where these compact lift solutions are becoming increasingly common. Similarly, the apartment buildings sector represents another crucial end-user market, as developers look to add value and accessibility to their properties. This diversification of end-users signals a broadening acceptance and integration of shaftless elevator technology across various living environments. Understanding the Modern Consumer: Motivations, Needs, and Key Purchase Drivers The consumer base for the United States shaftless home elevators market is motivated by a powerful confluence of practical needs and lifestyle aspirations. A principal driver is the aging U.S. population and the widespread desire to "age in place," allowing seniors to maintain independence and remain in their beloved homes for longer. Consequently, homeowners with existing mobility challenges are primary consumers, seeking a safe and reliable way to navigate their multi-level homes. Individuals with disabilities represent another significant and core user group for whom these elevators are not a luxury but a necessity. Beyond mobility, consumers are increasingly sophisticated, looking for space-saving and highly customizable designs that integrate seamlessly into their home's architecture. There is also a rapidly growing demand from homeowners undertaking luxury home renovations, who view a personal elevator as a statement of comfort and modern living. Eco-conscious consumers are another emerging demographic, drawn to new energy-efficient models. A large portion of buyers are retrofitting these elevators into existing homes, a testament to their minimal structural impact. Many homeowners are also astutely installing elevators as a long-term investment to increase their property's resale value. Finally, simple convenience is a major factor, with consumers using their elevators to effortlessly transport heavy items like groceries, laundry, and luggage between floors. Above all, safety is a paramount concern for all consumers, who prioritize features like emergency stop buttons and reliable battery backups. Examining the Competitive Landscape and the Leading Players Shaping the Industry The competitive environment of the United States shaftless home elevators market is dynamic and robust, characterized by a group of specialized and innovative companies. Industry analysis indicates that six main companies are the primary manufacturers of shaftless elevators, setting the standards for quality and innovation. The leading players who have established a strong market presence include Kone USA, OTIS, Cibes Lift, Savaria, Stiltz Lifts, Wessex Lifts, Pollock Lifts, Terry Lifts, and SHC Elevators. Other notable manufacturers making significant contributions include Lifton, and Nibav Home Lifts. Providers like Nationwide Lifts are recognized as a significant source for small shaftless residential elevators in the United States shaftless home elevators market, while Arrow Lift has carved out a strong brand reputation in the U.S. with its focus on small-sized domestic elevators. In a strategic move highlighting market consolidation and expansion, Cibes Lift Group acquired Country Home Elevator in May 2025, bolstering its presence in the American Midwest. Meanwhile, established giants like Mitsubishi Electric Building Solutions are also innovating, launching a new control renewal menu for elevators from other manufacturers in March 2025. To attract customers, many companies offer valuable services like free in-home consultations and quotes. A key competitive advantage frequently highlighted is the rapid installation time; some models can be fully installed in as little as one to two days, with most projects being completed in under two weeks. This is possible because, as companies emphasize, there is minimal construction required compared to traditional elevators. Reinforcing a commitment to domestic production, many manufacturers proudly highlight that their products are made in the USA. Unveiling Technological Innovations and Design Trends Redefining Modern Home Mobility Innovation is the lifeblood of the United States shaftless home elevators market, with trends in 2025 pointing towards a future of smarter, safer, and more stylish solutions. The integration with smart home systems is a key trend, empowering users with the convenience of remote control via dedicated smartphone apps. There is a powerful and growing focus on energy-efficient designs, with many new models incorporating LED lighting and advanced energy-saving motors. Safety continues to evolve, with improved features such as highly responsive pressure-sensitive sensors and reliable emergency battery backups becoming standard offerings. On the installation front, modular designs are gaining significant traction, which serves to simplify both the initial installation process and any future maintenance. Aesthetically, the market is witnessing a major shift, with a clear focus on sleek, minimalist designs that blend harmoniously with contemporary home interiors. Customization is now a major trend, as consumers demand elevators that can be tailored to their specific architectural needs and personal design preferences. In line with this, the use of glass and transparent materials to create a stunning panoramic view from within the cab is an exceptionally popular design choice. An exciting and innovative design trend is the "vanishing" elevator, where the cab's roof is finished to match the upstairs flooring, making the elevator virtually disappear when it is on the lower level. Finally, quiet operation has become a critical selling point, with many manufacturers successfully engineering and advertising a "whisper-quiet" performance to ensure a tranquil home environment, while the development of pitless elevators, which do not require costly and disruptive excavation, further simplifies installation. A Comprehensive Breakdown of Pricing Structures and Associated Costs in 2025 Understanding the financial investment is crucial for consumers navigating the United States shaftless home elevators market. The starting price for a standard through-the-floor home elevator typically ranges from $35,000 to $60,000, which includes the unit and professional installation. For those with more basic needs, a simple, single-person shaftless elevator can be acquired for a cost upwards of $20,000. For a multi-level home, a smaller elevator serving up to three floors can start at around $53,000, while a larger, wheelchair-friendly model for three stories will likely start closer to $73,000. Some estimates place the incremental cost of adding an elevator at between $5,000 to $15,000 per story. The overall price of a home elevator can span a wide spectrum, from $29,000 to over $100,000, depending heavily on the type and features. Pneumatic elevators, for example, generally start from $35,000. Premium glass or acrylic elevators, such as the visually striking Savaria Vuelift, are positioned at the higher end of the shaftless home elevators market, starting around $80,000. Sophisticated air-driven home elevators can have a starting price of $69,000. Prospective buyers should note that the quoted price from many reputable dealers already includes tax, shipping, and all installation fees. However, it is wise to budget for potential additional costs, which may include building permits, architectural fees for drawings, and any necessary home renovations to prepare the site. The key value proposition remains that shaftless elevators are generally less expensive than traditional elevators, primarily due to the elimination of costly hoistway construction, as the minimal site preparation work helps to keep overall project costs down. Customize the Data Scope to Match Your Objectives: The Unwavering Upward Trajectory: A Promising Outlook for the U.S. Market The confluence of demographic necessity, technological advancement, and evolving consumer desires has created a uniquely fertile ground for the United States shaftless home elevators market. The 70 statistics detailed in this report collectively point to an industry that is not only robust but also rich with innovation and consumer-centric solutions. From the wide array of customizable types and capacities to the sophisticated smart features and design trends, the market is successfully meeting the demand for a new standard of living. As more Americans choose to invest in the long-term accessibility and value of their homes, the shaftless elevator will become an increasingly integral feature of the modern American residence, promising a future where mobility and independence are seamlessly integrated into everyday life. U.S. Shaftless Home Elevators Market Major Players: Cibes Lift Evans Elevator Company Pollock Lifts USA Kone USA Stiltz Lift USA Otis USA SHC Elevators Other Prominent Players Market Segmentation: By Elevator Type Enclosed Open By Shape Type Round Square By Capacity 200-340 kg 340-544 kg 544- 600 kg More than 600 kg By Technology Hydraulic In Line Traction Others By End User Residential Elderly Care Centres Disability Centres Others By Distribution Channel Online Offline Direct Distributor Want Deeper Insights? Book a Free Call with an Expert: About Astute Analytica Astute Analytica is a global market research and advisory firm providing data-driven insights across industries such as technology, healthcare, chemicals, semiconductors, FMCG, and more. We publish multiple reports daily, equipping businesses with the intelligence they need to navigate market trends, emerging opportunities, competitive landscapes, and technological advancements. With a team of experienced business analysts, economists, and industry experts, we deliver accurate, in-depth, and actionable research tailored to meet the strategic needs of our clients. At Astute Analytica, our clients come first, and we are committed to delivering cost-effective, high-value research solutions that drive success in an evolving marketplace. Contact Us:Astute AnalyticaPhone: +1-888 429 6757 (US Toll Free); +91-0120- 4483891 (Rest of the World)For Sales Enquiries: sales@ Follow us on: LinkedIn | Twitter | YouTube CONTACT: Contact Us: Astute Analytica Phone: +1-888 429 6757 (US Toll Free); +91-0120- 4483891 (Rest of the World) For Sales Enquiries: sales@ Website: in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
CNET
a day ago
- CNET
AI Is Being Used to Support Sighted Volunteers Working With the Visually Impaired. Here's How
I was recently volunteering at a food pantry when I saw someone who was visually impaired trying to navigate the space and understand how food labels are marked there. After watching someone step in to help them, I wondered whether there was a way that I could support them next time without knowing how this person specifically (or anyone else in the visually impaired community) navigated through day-to-day life. This is how I found Be My AI, an artificial intelligence feature within the Be My Eyes app that allows blind and low-vision users to get instant visual assistance without first connecting with a volunteer. What is Be My Eyes, and how does it use AI? Be My Eyes is a volunteer-run video platform that supports visually impaired people. It was founded in 2015 by Hans Jørgen Wiberg, who recognized the need for a platform connecting blind people with sighted volunteers via live video calls. This initiative aimed to assist people in navigating everyday tasks by leveraging the support of a global volunteer network. In 2023, Be My Eyes introduced its AI-powered virtual assistant, Be My AI, to reduce the need — and potential wait time — of speaking to a human. Since Be My AI is a feature inside the Be My Eyes app, it uses OpenAI's GPT-4 with vision to instantly "see" and describe photos for blind and low-vision people. You snap a picture of what you're trying to navigate in real time, and the AI tool gives you a natural-language description on the spot. What sets it apart is its conversational ability. Since it's working through OpenAI's GPT-4, it functions the same way. You can ask follow-up questions, and the AI keeps up, understanding context and responding to accommodate your needs. If the AI can't help, you can switch to a live volunteer inside the app, giving you flexible options anytime. I appreciate this because it's using AI to give you agency while still offering the option to "phone a friend." How to use Be My AI to support the visually impaired community Be My AI (and Be My Eyes) is available on desktop, iOS and Android, so pick your platform of choice and download. Download the Be My Eyes app and register as a user with your email, Google or Apple ID. During setup, choose your primary language to ensure the AI platform understands your requests. Once logged in, navigate to the Be My AI feature, where you can start getting instant visual assistance powered by AI. There are no wait times or live volunteers needed for this feature (more on that below) When you need help, simply take a photo within the Be My AI tab. The AI, powered by GPT-4 with vision, will analyze the image and provide a detailed, natural language description of what it "sees." You can ask follow-up questions about the image — like identifying objects or describing environments — through the chat's interface. If Be My AI can't answer your question or you want more personalized help, you can easily switch to a live volunteer call. The app will connect you with a sighted volunteer via video, who can see through your rear-facing camera and assist you in real time. This combination of AI and human support gives you the flexibility to get help however you need it. Should you use Be My Eyes? Be My Eyes is a free platform that's built for accessibility, but it's not without limits. Nothing is perfect. Be My AI can misinterpret blurry or complex images, and like any tech, it relies on a smartphone and internet access. Still, Be My Eyes offers flexible support and lets you choose the kind of help that fits your needs in the moment. Be My Eyes / Screenshot by CNET As for data ethics, there's always a risk with anything that lives online, but I'm finding a compromise in the guardrails in place and how companies communicate off-top or respond to concerns with customers in mind rather than soothing disgruntled communities with fluff. Be My Eyes is transparent about how it handles photos. Images submitted to Be My AI are processed to generate a response but aren't stored long term. The platform is clear about privacy, built with screen reader support, and gives users full control over how they engage. The heart of Be My Eyes platform and its AI features has good intentions, and wasn't crafted recklessly -- I can appreciate that. It doesn't try to replace community, but it makes everyday interactions more accessible. If you're someone who values autonomy but occasionally needs an extra set of eyes, whether human or AI, Be My Eyes can offer a thoughtful, flexible bridge.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
vivo Wins Innovate for Impact Use Case Award at the ITU AI for Good Global Summit
The recognition highlights vivo's commitment to empowering accessibility through on-device intelligence. SHENZHEN, China, July 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- vivo was honored with the "Innovate for Impact" best use case award in the accessibility category at the AI for Good Global Summit, in Geneva, Switzerland. Received on July 9, the award recognizes vivo's efforts in leveraging on-device artificial intelligence (AI) to empower accessibility with the initiative "On-Device Intelligence Empowers People with Disabilities and Smart Interaction Scenarios," which stood out among the top submissions from 32 countries. This recognition is a strong endorsement of vivo's long-standing commitment to inclusive technology and its leadership in advancing accessibility solutions globally. The AI for Good Global Summit, organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in collaboration with over 40 United Nations organizations, including UNIDO and UNESCO, is a leading platform for dialogue on AI, promoting international cooperation among major AI economies. Through workshops and case-study initiatives, the AI for Good Global Summit aims to facilitate the exchange of exemplary experiences and expert knowledge on the global application of AI technologies and models, ultimately improving fairness in AI. This year, the Summit's Innovate for Impact challenge awarded 51 AI-driven use cases selected from 238 submissions received from across 32 countries. At the ceremony, Mr. Wei Wei, Director-General of the Department of Science and Technology at China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, and Dr. Bilel Jamoussi, Deputy Director of ITU's Telecommunication Standardization Bureau, jointly presented certificates to the winning companies and institutions. At the summit, Cao Yuqiong, Senior Director of Software Industry Development at vivo, delivered a keynote titled "AI Expanding Human Perception Seeing, Hearing, Understanding Everything." Cao emphasized vivo's vision of "Technology for a Better Future" and demonstrated some of the company's key accessibility innovations, including vivo Seeing and other pioneering features designed to create a fairer digital world. Since 2019, vivo has been leveraging on-device AI capabilities to create industry-leading accessibility solutions. Among these innovations are vivo Listening, which enables two-way voice-to-text communication, and the world's first "Sign Language Translator," a breakthrough in overcoming complex grammar recognition challenges. Additionally, vivo has introduced the industry's first AI visual assistance product, vivo Seeing, which pioneers a multimodal visual assistance system that provides core functions such as environment description and object localization. vivo has also developed vivo Music Scores Reader, designed for visually impaired music lovers. vivo's ongoing efforts in information accessibility have earned recognition and affirmation from reputable organizations and institutions domestically and internationally. In June 2025, vivo Voice for Hope Initiative was shortlisted as an "Outstanding Case of Technology for the Disabled" by the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology. At the 7th Technology Accessibility Development Conference (TADC), the initiative titled "vivo Information Accessibility: Industry Practice Driven by Large Models" was awarded the "2025 Outstanding Case of Information Accessibility." In addition, vivo is taking the lead in creating a barrier-free ecosystem empowered by science and technology. vivo's barrier-free technology is now featured in the National Barrier-Free Environment Exhibition Hall, making vivo the first technology company to provide guided tours for individuals with disabilities using smartphones in China. As part of its efforts to build an open platform for "science and technology for good," vivo has made its full-stack AI capabilities available to developers at no cost, with a particular focus on those developing barrier-free solutions. In May 2025, vivo and the China Disabled Persons Welfare Foundation held a conference on the vivo Voice for Hope Initiative - Special Action on Technology for the Disabled. During the conference, vivo announced its commitment to invest RMB 30 million over the next five years to explore innovative solutions that empower people with disabilities to live barrier-free lives. To date, vivo's products and services have reached over 500 million users in 60 countries and regions around the world, with accessibility features benefiting more than 4 million users. (END) About vivo vivo is a technology company driven by user orientation to create exceptional products, with smart terminals and intelligent services at its core. It aims to bridge the gap between people and the digital world, offering users a more convenient and personalized mobile digital life. Guided by its corporate values of 'Benfen' (staying grounded), user orientation, design-driven innovation, continuous learning, and teamwork, vivo integrates sustainable development strategies across its value chain, striving to become a healthier, enduring world-class enterprise. Headquartered in Dongguan, China, vivo taps into local talent resources and maintains an extensive R&D network spanning Shenzhen, Dongguan, Nanjing, Beijing, Hangzhou, Shanghai, and Xi'an. Its research covers a wide range of frontier areas, including 5G communication, artificial intelligence, industrial design, and imaging technology. Currently, vivo's manufacturing network (including authorized production) boasts an annual production capacity of nearly 200 million units, with sales covering over 60 countries and regions and a user base exceeding 500 million. For more corporate, brand, product, and technology updates, follow vivo's official WeChat accounts: 'vivo'. For additional media resources, high-resolution images, or videos, please visit: About ITU The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is the United Nations agency for digital technologies, driving innovation for people and the planet with 194 Member States and a membership of over 1,000 companies, universities, civil society, and international and regional organizations. Established in 1865, ITU coordinates the global use of the radio spectrum and satellite orbits, establishes international technology standards, drives universal connectivity and digital services, and is helping to make sure everyone benefits from sustainable digital transformation, including the most remote communities. From artificial intelligence (AI) to quantum, from satellites and submarine cables to advanced mobile and wireless broadband networks, ITU is committed to connecting the world and beyond. Learn more: View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE vivo Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
