Walmart pilots resource for blind, low vision customers

Walmart announced the pilot of a free resource for blind and low-vision customers. The company said this resource is one of the most requested accessibility initiatives.

Through the Aira app, customers can be connected to a trained visual interpreter and navigate all Walmart stores or Walmart.com independently and confidently. 

Using remote access to a phone camera or piece of wearable tech, Aira interpreters act as eyes inside the store, the companies said. 

“I think the thing they’re going to gain the most from our partnership is this demonstration to the world that Walmart and Aira really do think about the customers they serve,” said Everette Bacon, the chief of blindness initiatives at Aira, who is blind himself. “That’s a testament to the kind of service Walmart has provided for years and wants to continue to lead on.”

[Read more: Pharmacy Innovator of the Year 2021: Walmart connects with communities]

“Not having to depend on someone, and take them away from their job duties, or ask a friend or family member, just to do this on my own time and on my own terms—it’s very freeing,” Everette explained.

“The reality is, we have tons of shoppers with disabilities who we want to make sure are having as good, if not better, of a shopping experience with us as someone who doesn’t have a disability,” said Gayatri Agnew, head of Walmart’s Accessibility Center of Excellence.

Aira is free to use in all Walmart U.S. stores and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on Walmart.com.