A new assistive device, the Vision Wallet, is helping people who are blind or have low vision identify currency and detect counterfeit notes quickly and independently.
Developed by H Vision India Pvt. Ltd., the wallet resembles a standard men’s wallet but features an embedded electronic module with sensors that detect currency denominations and announce them via audio in Hindi and English—without requiring internet access or a smartphone.
The device gained attention after being showcased at an assistive technology exhibition at Vellore Institute of Technology. Recognising its potential, the National Association for the Blind (NAB), Tamil Nadu, began distributing it to beneficiaries. According to CEO Dipti Bhatia, the wallet offers a practical alternative to smartphone apps, which may be inaccessible or unreliable for some users.
Due to limited funding, only a portion of more than 250 applicants received the device. Priority was given to low-income individuals, students, and people who regularly handle cash. The wallet costs approximately ₹3,600 (AUD $55–60) but may be subsidised or provided free depending on income.
For more information, please read The Hindu’s article on the ‘vision wallet’.