Visual Aid Buying Guide 2026 for the US.

1. Smartphone AI apps

Lumyeye Pro ($16.99/month, iPhone and Android), reading printed documents, live vision, calls, one-shot email sending, Google Maps, Spotify and daily organization in one voice assistant. From morning to night, useful tools for greater independence. Try 40 free queries.

Seeing AI, Microsoft’s free app for iOS and Android, including text reading and scene descriptions.

Be My Eyes, free on iOS and Android, with volunteer video assistance and Be My AI image descriptions.

Envision App, described as free by its publisher, with text reading, image description and Ask Envision for questions about captured content.

Google Lookout, an Android app with reading and visual assistance modes; check device and language requirements.

2. Smart glasses and dedicated cameras

VIVE Eagle with Lumyeye Pro, press the left-temple button, speak and hear the answer through the glasses while your phone stays asleep in your pocket. The integration is included in Pro. Glasses and optional Power Boost are sold separately; check regional availability with VIVE.

OrCam MyEye, a wearable reading device. Check the exact model and ask for current regional pricing.

Envision Glasses, wearable assistance with reading and other features that vary by edition. Confirm the hardware, updates and ongoing costs with the seller.

3. OCR pens & magnifiers

Audio labelers, record spoken labels for items you tag. They differ from recognizing previously untagged objects; check the exact device.

Electronic magnifiers, enlarge visual material on a handheld or desktop display. Compare screen size, contrast and handling with a smartphone; this guide does not establish which is better for your vision.

Choose by the tasks you need

• Everyday independence, Lumyeye Pro ($16.99/month) on your iPhone or Android, from the morning briefing to your evening routine.
• Reading, describing and communication, try Lumyeye Pro with your own printed documents, objects and everyday tasks.
• Work and study, Lumyeye Pro for printed documents, calendar events, timers and memos.
• No smartphone, OrCam MyEye Pro.

Also available: Lumyeye Classic. A simpler app for occasional reading and photo description, at $14.90/month. Pro adds everyday communication and organization for $2.09 more per month on monthly plans. See Classic.