Vision Australia AI newsletter: October 2026

This month, we're looking at how AI can help find your keys, identify treasured possessions, negotiate a better deal, and even lend a hand with everyday tasks. Plus, we explore the growing trend of AI agents that do more than answer questions and can actually get things done. 

OOrion app adds a feature that can help you locate any object close by

OOrion is a free iPhone app that has recently introduced a new AI-powered feature to help users find almost any object nearby using a simple description.

Previously, users could only search for a set list of objects. Users can now ask OOrion to locate items such as keys, a handbag, or even an empty seat. Simply open the app or use a Siri shortcut and tell OOrion what you're looking for. Although, it may be considered cheating if you use it during a game of hide-and-seek!

The app will be coming to Android-based phones soon.

If you'd like help getting started with OOrion, Vision Australia's Orientation & Mobility Specialists and Access Technology Specialists are here to support you.

ScribeMe Live Assist describes changes in your surroundings with speech

ScribeMe is an AI-powered app available on iPhone and Android that offers a range of features designed to support people who are blind or have low vision.

The app includes several advanced AI-powered features, such as Snap and Scribe, face recognition, and document scanning. However, its standout feature is Live Assist, which can alert users to changes in their surroundings without needing to be continuously prompted.

ScribeMe can also be used with Meta Glasses, providing hands-free access to many of its features.

Please note that while a free version of ScribeMe is available, its features are limited. A monthly or yearly subscription is required to unlock the app's full functionality.

Meta launches a new Muse AI assistant in the US

Unlike traditional AI assistants that are used for research and as search engines, Muse AI can take action on a user's behalf. This could include actions like making dinner reservations, booking travel, purchasing items online or assisting with dispute resolution. Although there's no guarantee it can settle family debates about whose turn it is to do the dishes.

Meta has also indicated that support for Meta Glasses is planned for a future release.

At this stage, Muse AI is only available to users in the United States, but it's another example of how AI is evolving from simply providing information to helping users get things done.

Siri now incorporates AI

If you have an iPhone 15 Pro or later, the latest iOS 27 update brings with it a far more powerful Siri AI assistant.

The new Siri goes beyond answering simple questions. It can understand what's on your screen, find information across apps, help manage tasks, draft emails and messages, and even create to-do lists based on information in your emails, notes and reminders.

For example, you could ask Siri to join an upcoming Zoom meeting, draft a professional email response, or identify outstanding tasks that need your attention. You can also use Siri with your camera to learn more about objects, places, and text around you.

This update moves Siri closer to being a true digital assistant rather than just a voice-controlled search tool.

If you have questions about using the new Siri on your iPhone – our Vision Australia Access Technology Specialists are here to help.

JAWS screen reader looking into the future

JAWS may soon be getting its own AI agent, designed to help users complete tasks rather than simply just helping them access information.

For the past few years, Vispero has been exploring AI features and has demonstrated an AI agent that can understand what's happening on your computer and perform actions on your behalf. This could include navigating inaccessible websites, interacting with difficult desktop applications, or completing multi-step tasks in programs such as Microsoft Word.

The goal isn't to replace JAWS, but to help with those moments when you know what you want to do but aren't sure how to get there.

If you'd like to stay informed about the latest JAWS updates, we invite you to subscribe to our new JAWS Monthly Newsletter. Each issue includes information on new features, bug fixes, and practical tips to help you get more from JAWS.

To subscribe to the Jaws Newsletter, please email: [email protected].

Spotlight of the month: NFC Smart Locks: An accessible alternative to traditional keys

If you've ever struggled to find the right key in the dark, and then line it up with a lock to unlock a door, you're not alone. With the addition of holding a cane or Seeing Eye Dog, this everyday task can be even more challenging.

NFC locks offer an alternative to traditional keys, allowing doors to be unlocked with a simple tap using an authorised smart card, key fob, or smartphone, finally bringing an end to the age-old game of, "which key is it this time?"

If you would like to investigate this further, please talk to a Vision Australia Access Technology Specialist or Occupational Therapist.

AI fails: When AI goes wrong  

An AI agent recently made headlines after it responded to Marketplace messages on a seller's behalf, negotiated a lower price, and even sharing the seller's address with a buyer. The buyer arrived at the home believing they had arranged the purchase with the seller, unaware they had been communicating with AI. The AI managed to negotiate a better price, proving that even real estate agents may have some competition.

Readers stories

After collecting vintage glassware for more than 20 years, Tom decided to sell some of his collection on Facebook Marketplace.

Due to vision loss, identifying each piece and creating detailed listings was a challenge. Using his Ray-Ban Meta glasses, Tom was able to ask questions such as, "What am I holding?" and then follow up to learn more about the item's colour, design, age, patterns and maker's marks.

By using AI to identify and describe each piece, Tom was able to create listings independently and with confidence. The result? More than 50 items sold and the satisfaction of knowing he had done it himself.