Exploring the use of smartphone applications during navigation-based tasks for individuals who are blind or who have low vision: future directions and priorities

Purpose Mainstream smartphone applications are increasingly replacing the use of traditional visual aids to facilitate independent travel for people with blindness or low vision. However, little is known about which navigation apps are being used, the factors underpinning these decisions and why apps are not used in certain contexts. The goal of this study was to explore the navigation-based apps used by individuals who are blind or who have low vision, the factors influencing these decisions, and perceptions about gaps to address future needs in navigation.