How the low-vision community embraced AI smart glasses | The Vergecast

On this episode of The Vergecast, we’re going to dive deep into why accessible design is universal design. First, guest host Victoria Song will chat with Jason Valley, a visually impaired Verge reader. Jason initially reached out to Victoria after her ⁠Live AI hands-on⁠, challenging the notion that the feature was a “solution looking for a problem to solve.” Jason shares how the tech has helped him live a more independent life, what he’s hoping to see improve, and how the blind and low-vision community has enthusiastically embraced the technology.
After that, Victoria sits down with Be My Eyes CEO Mike Buckley. Be My Eyes is an app that pairs blind and low-vision users with sighted volunteers to help them go about their day. Buckley gives his thoughts about how accessible tech design benefits everyone, why smart glasses and AI are a natural combo, and what challenges and opportunities in this space remain.
And finally, we have features reporter Mia Sato on to answer a spicy question about smart glasses from the Vergecast Hotline (call 866-VERGE11 or email vergecast@theverge.com). Specifically, do smart glasses belong in the bedroom?

0:00 Intro
00:58 Listener Feedback and Smart Glasses Impact
02:45 Interview with Jason Valley
04:00 Jason's Experience with AI and Smart Glasses
05:21 Challenges and Benefits of AI for the Visually Impaired
09:19 Cost and Accessibility of Smart Glasses
12:43 Integration with Be My Eyes and Community Adoption
24:16 Guide Dog Training and AI Integration
32:03 Interview with Mike Buckley, CEO of Be My Eyes
40:59 The Evolution of Smart Glasses
42:22 Meta Partnership and Integration
44:27 Challenges and Future of AI in Smart Glasses
46:59 Smart Glasses Market and Form Factors
52:00 Accessibility and Universal Design
56:01 Real-Life Impact Stories
01:00:35 Do Smart Glasses Belong in the Bedroom?
01:12:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Post from The Verge on July 15, 2025

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