Inclusive Navigation Systems: Perspectives and Challenges for the Visually-Impaired

Despite significant advances in technology, the area of mobility and orientation for visually impaired persons continues to present significant challenges. Digital maps have become essential for navigation, but their usability is often compromised for users who rely on assistive technologies, especially when accessed on small touch screens. This calls for innovative approaches to making digital maps more accessible and usable, as these tools are crucial for creating mental maps of navigational spaces. This paper explores the need for inclusive localization and positioning systems that accommodate a wide range of users, including those with visual impairments. It highlights the critical role of user context, such as device experience and positional awareness, in improving the usability of these systems. The integration of haptic and audio feedback may offer promising new interaction methods, although further development is needed. In addition, user interface design and system characteristics such as security, robustness and usability need to be aligned with user acceptance, with a focus on low cost and simplicity. Our analysis identifies key requirements for the design of inclusive systems and proposes steps for the scientific community to take to advance the field, with the aim of bridging the gap between technological capabilities and practical usability, and promoting inclusive design principles for future innovation.