The use of dogs as eye substitutes by the visually impaired is normal in western countries. But in Malaysia there are many restrictions that make the use of service dogs taboo. In the United States, The Glide robot was developed as an alternative to the use of dogs.
The visually impaired can hold the handle of The Glide like a dog leash. This robot is equipped with wheels that will direct the user to the desired destination. The camera system and artificial intelligence (AI) will ensure that the journey can be carried out safely and accurately.
It also has a speaker to provide warnings such as obstacles and dangerous objects ahead. The camera warns of objects in front, objects on the road surface and hanging objects that prevent users from hitting their heads. Through navigation mode, data from Google Maps can be sent to The Glide so that it moves to the exact location.
There is also a haptic system on the handle so that users know what button is pressed. Each The Glide weighs 3.5 kg which allows it to be lifted easily when needed. On a single charge, it can operate for up to 6 hours.
Each The Glide is sold at $1499 (~RM 6322) each with a subscription fee of $30 (~RM 126) per month for the various services offered.