Learning to See with What You Hear: Revolutionary Sensory Substitution Device Offers Alternative

A new device may offer an advanced alternative for the blind, according to a recent study. In fact, researchers from the University of Bath are hoping to turn sounds into images using a revolutionary technology that could potentially be used as an invasive treatment for blind and partially-sighted people.

Known as the vOICe sensory substitution device, this tool that could help blind people use sounds to build an image in their minds of the things around them.

Lead study author Dr. Michael Prolx from the University's Department of Psychology looked at how blindfolded sighted participants responded to an eye test using the device.

They were asked to perform a standard eye chart test referred to as the Snellen Tumbling E test, in which participants were asked to view the letter E turned in four different directions in various sizes. Normal best-corrected visual acuity is considered 20/20, calculated in terms of distance (in feet) and the size of the E on the eye chart.

Participants, even without any training in the use of the device, were able to perform the best performance possible at nearly 20/400, according to background information regarding the study, which appears to be the highest resolution currently possible with the ever-improving technology.

 "This level of visual performance exceeds that of the current invasive techniques for vision restoration, such as stem cell implants and retinal prostheses after extensive training," Prolx said, according to a press release. "A recent study found successful vision at a level of 20/800 after the use of stem cells. Although this might improve with time and provide the literal sensation of sight, the affordable and non-invasive nature of The vOICe provides another option.

"Sensory substitution devices are not only an alternative, but might also be best employed in combination with such invasive techniques to train the brain to see again or for the first time."

More information regarding the study can be found in the paper "How well do you see what you hear? The acuity of visual-to-auditory sensory substitution," published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology.