Affordable AI wearable transforms reading and independence for visually impaired

Jyoti AI Pro is an affordable, wearable reader. It uses offline AI to read text and identify 300+ objects, colours and currency in 80+ languages. Priced at ~₹25,000 (€250). It was co‑created with persons with disabilities and has 23,500+ active users.

Torchit Electronics is a social enterprise headquartered in Ahmedabad (Gujarat), specializing in affordable, life-improving assistive technology. Its Jyoti AI Pro is a small and wearable device that transforms regular glasses, a ring, or a lamp clip into a smart reading and object recognition device. It is AI supported and works offline, supporting over 80 languages and recognizing 300 objects. By 2025 it has been distributed throughout India and in 40 other countries, with over 18,000 devices being distributed, aiming at 1 million units sold by 2030.

Problems Targeted

People with visual disabilities lack affordable, offline tools to identify objects and read text, restricting independence, education, and employment.

Solution, Innovation and Impact

Jyoti AI Pro is a small, wearable device that combines offline AI object/text recognition, multilingual reading, and universal modular design, which can be connected with glasses, rings, and desk lamps. Features include reading printed and digital materials, identifying 300+ types of objects, colour and currency recognition, and a robust voice-based interface supporting 80+ languages. Unlike most alternatives, the device functions without Internet access, making it practical for use in rural and resource-constrained areas. At a cost of 25,000 Indian Rupees (approximately €250) for individual users, the cost is 90 percent lower than existing alternatives. For individuals it is offered in the form of a lifetime subscription, with a different model for institutional use. Persons with disabilities co-created the device and serve as trainers, developers, and leaders in the company. Units are produced and assembled at a facility in Ahmedabad (Gujarat), where more than 40 percent of employees are persons with disabilities. Partnerships for distribution include Enable India, Sightsavers, NAB Delhi, and UNDP, as well as state governments and major NGOs. In three years, device deployment accelerated from 480 units (2022) to 13,400 units (2024). By 2025 over 18,000 units have been distributed, with high active usage rates. Jyoti AI Pro is integrated into 10 government and disability schemes, reading 150,000+ pages monthly. Pilot schools achieved 85 per cent improvement in literacy.

Funding, Outlook and Transferability

The project is mainly funded by device sales (50 percent), CSR/government grants (30 percent), and government impact investment (20 percent). Torchit Electronics plans to supply 1 million devices by 2030 by introducing new features, forming partnerships, and distributing products via the online retailer EnableMart. (#ZeroCall26)

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