NOA by biped marks successful market entry in Europe and the US
Tech
6 August 2024
Following a successful market entry in ten countries, biped has signed three distribution partnerships to fuel NOA’s US launch. | © biped
Navigation, Obstacle, Artificial intelligence (NOA) is the new brand name for biped’s AI mobility vest that can guide blind and visually impaired people.
Lausanne-based start-up biped.ai, known for its innovative solutions for the visually impaired, has rebranded its flagship AI mobility vest to NOA. The smart vest uses advanced AI and 3D sound technology to help users navigate safely by detecting and describing obstacles. NOA features three wide-angle cameras that mimic human vision, warning users of potential hazards via bone-conduction headphones.
Developed in collaboration with the Honda Research Institute, NOA has been tested by over 250 beta-testers, low-vision professionals, and orientation and mobility (O&M) trainers. It is designed to work alongside traditional mobility aids like white canes and guide dogs without interfering with their use.
biped.ai has launched NOA in ten countries, including the US, UK, France, Belgium, Germany, Czech Republic, Australia, Switzerland, Spain, and New Zealand. The company has shipped 75 devices this year and plans to ship more in the coming weeks. To support its US expansion, biped.ai has signed partnerships with three distributors and hired its first US-based employee.
A leading provider of assistive technologies
In addition to NOA, the company offers NOA Pro, an enterprise accessibility program to make workplaces more accessible for visually impaired employees and visitors. NOA Travel is designed for transportation companies, providing fully accessible journeys with custom descriptions of surroundings and integration with public transport schedules.
Co-Founder Maël Fabien emphasized the mission of biped.ai: “Our vision is to improve the lives of the visually impaired, offering them freedom and autonomy of movement. The success of NOA marks a significant step towards achieving this goal.”
With these advancements, biped.ai continues to position itself as a leading provider of assistive technologies, expanding its impact globally and enhancing the independence and safety of visually impaired individuals.
