Cutting-edge technologies that can greatly improve the quality of life for people with disabilities

70-80% of the information we receive from our external environment each day comes from sight. Therefore, daily life is already fraught with challenges for people with visual impairments. Currently, an increasing number of technologies are serving this group: the advent of text processing systems for the blind has opened the door to knowledge and the internet for them; glasses for colorblind individuals allow them to see colors as sighted people do; and wearable devices can transmit information in the form of micro-electrical pulses to the tongue, helping blind people "see" ahead with their tongues.

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When we think of the language of the deaf and mute, our first thought is sign language. However, this doesn't mean that sign language can completely solve their communication problems, because most of us, as ordinary people, are not proficient in sign language. But a recent technology can convert sign language into written text and spoken language, and even perform reverse translation. With the help of this technology, communication barriers between ordinary people and the deaf and mute have been broken down.

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Standing up is a simple action for most of us. But for patients with disabilities or paralysis in both legs, it can be incredibly difficult. However, with the advancement of technology, people have begun to develop various devices to help people with lower limb disabilities stand up again, and even participate in marathons while wearing prosthetics. Exoskeleton systems, in particular, can help people with lower limb paralysis stand up again.

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The renowned physicist Stephen Hawking, after being diagnosed with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), relied on his technologically advanced wheelchair to communicate and continue his research. This wheelchair, developed by Intel, is a true pinnacle of high technology, integrating computer software, communication technology, infrared light, and a voice converter. With this wheelchair, Hawking could independently complete various tasks such as browsing the internet, writing articles, and making phone calls. It can be said that this Intel-made wheelchair has become an extension of Hawking's body.

Viktoria Modesta is one such beneficiary of technology. Born in Latvia, she tragically died in a car accident shortly after birth, leaving her with a disability in her left leg. From a young age, she faced discrimination at school, becoming known as "that girl" among her classmates. At the age of 20, she resolutely decided to have her leg amputated, believing that, "I feel that all the negative experiences of the first half of my life have been cut off along with my left leg, and a completely new life awaits me!" Despite losing a leg, this artist did not stop creating art but instead embarked on a creative artistic career.

This year, she took to the stage wearing Sonifica, a wearable audio device created using 3D printing technology powered by Intel. She used an ivory-shaped modulator on her clothing to play beautiful music, and this "ivory" could even change shape. At that moment, music, art, fashion, technology, and performance were combined into one, bringing the audience an unprecedented experience.

We often say "disability breeds determination," and perhaps Viktoria Modesta, with her beauty, talent, courage, and confidence, better embodies the meaning of this phrase in the new era. Technology is benefiting everyone, truly demonstrating its ability to make life better.

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