Be My Eyes

Few apps put AI to work on such a practical, everyday need. Be My Eyes started with a simple idea, letting a blind or low-vision person borrow a stranger's eyes for a minute over video, and it has since added Be My AI so users can get a detailed description of a photo without waiting for anyone. Having both options side by side is what makes it special: quick questions go to the AI, while tricky or sensitive moments can still go to a real person.

• Live video help from a large volunteer community, which the company says covers more than 180 languages
• Be My AI turns a photo into a rich written description and answers follow-up questions about it
• Free to use for blind and low-vision people, with no subscription to manage
• Available on iOS and Android, with desktop and smart glasses options listed on the site
• A service directory where businesses can offer accessible support to customers

It is best for blind and low-vision people who want dependable help with reading labels, sorting mail, checking colors or getting oriented in a new place. Sighted people can also sign up as volunteers. A practical tip: use Be My AI for quick reads like menus or packaging, and save volunteer calls for tasks that need back-and-forth guidance, such as setting up an appliance.