ReturnGuide – Independent Indoor Navigation for Blind and Low-Vision Travelers

Explore freely, return confidently. ReturnGuide empowers blind and low-vision users to independently retrace their steps — indoors or outdoors — without GPS, beacons, or maps.

🦯 How it works:
Just start recording as you walk. When it’s time to return to your starting point, the app guides you back along your path with clear audio directions — no internet, GPS, or setup required.

🔊 Hands-free operation:
Use any standard Bluetooth headset to control the app without touching your phone. Pause, restart, or begin return guidance with a simple press of a headset button — perfect for keeping your hands free while using a cane, guide dog, or carrying items. (Optionally, if a headset isn't handy, you can use just the phone on its own.)

🌟 Key Features:

Built for blind and low-vision users

Fully accessible with TalkBack or the app’s built-in screen reader

No GPS, Wi-Fi, cellular service, or Bluetooth beacons required

Works indoors or outdoors

Headset-friendly for convenient, hands-free use

Whether you're exploring a new building, navigating a hallway, or returning to any starting point, ReturnGuide helps you do it on your own terms.

ReturnGuide works by using your phone's sensors to measure the distances and directions you're walking, so for best performance, can be placed in a holster or snug pocket to best measure your walking motions accurately.

The ReturnGuide navigation technology was awarded innovation research funding by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Development of the app was partly supported by the App Factory to Support Health and Function of People with Disabilities, funded by a grant from the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR) in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to Shepherd Center (Grant # 90DPHF0004).

Watch our demo video: https://youtu.be/RHCYNPQbu7s

ReturnGuide - Low Vision Nav