This footage was filmed and produced 8 February 2024.

[Note: no sound]

A groundbreaking new technology is set to revolutionize the way blind and partially sighted individuals navigate indoor spaces. The RoboGuide, an AI-powered four-legged robot developed by experts at the University of Glasgow, aims to provide assistance to visually impaired individuals in museums, shopping centers, hospitals, and other public places.

The RoboGuide project, led by Dr. Olaoluwa Popoola and Prof. Muhammad Imran, integrates cutting-edge technologies to help overcome the challenges faced by current assistive robots. By utilizing sophisticated sensors and advanced software, the RoboGuide is able to accurately map its surroundings, learn optimal routes, and provide real-time guidance while avoiding obstacles.

One of the key features of the RoboGuide is its ability to interact with users through a large language model, allowing it to understand questions and provide verbal responses. This groundbreaking technology has the potential to provide blind and partially sighted individuals with increased independence in their daily lives.

Partnering with the Forth Valley Sensory Centre (FVSC) Trust and the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) Scotland, the University of Glasgow has been able to test the RoboGuide in real-world environments. Volunteers from FVSC and RNIB were able to navigate the Hunterian museum with the help of the RoboGuide, showcasing its potential to assist visually impaired individuals.