Improve Blind Users Typing with AI Predictive Writing

As part of the EU ABILITY project initiative, accessibility and inclusion remain at the heart of technological innovation. Recently, we have developed an AI based predictive writing app, which shows the potential to improve blind and visually impaired users with a faster, smoother, and more intuitive writing experience.

The app originally prototyped in Python and later converted into a Windows application, this offline AI based predictive writing tool is designed to be mouse-free and fully compliant with NVDA, one of the most widely used screen readers. Its core functionality focuses on providing intelligent text predictions and auto-completion, minimizing typing effort while maximizing writing efficiency.

Key features include:

Seamless Keyboard Navigation: Users can explore predicted words using arrow keys and confirm their choice with the Return key, eliminating the need for mouse input.

Multi-Language Support: The app currently supports English, French, and Lithuanian, addressing the multilingual needs of the project.

Context-Aware Predictions: By leveraging local model technology, the app suggests the next word, completes partially typed words, and can even generate full sentences based on the user’s writing context.

Spelling and Emoji Assistance: Automatic spelling correction helps maintain writing accuracy, while a unique emoji search and selection feature makes digital communication more expressive.

Braille and Native Language Output: All predictions and completions are automatically presented in the user’s native language and compatible with Braille displays, enhancing accessibility for diverse users.

Intelligent Ranking and Personalization: Predicted words are dynamically ranked based on the user’s context and frequently used vocabulary, making suggestions increasingly relevant over time.

This demo application showcases how AI-driven assistive technology can transform digital communication for blind users, reducing barriers and fostering independence. By blending local AI model, multilingual support, and NVDA-friendly navigation, the app is a step forward in creating inclusive tools that serve real-world accessibility needs.

The demo app not only demonstrates the potential of predictive writing in assistive contexts but also contributes to the broader vision of the EU ABILITY project—leveraging cutting-edge technology to empower individuals and ensure that digital spaces are accessible to all.