A new app to help public transport passengers by enabling them to alert a bus driver that they are waiting at a bus stop is now being trialled by Adelaide Metro.
Developed by Adelaide-based software programmer Cassie Hames of SAGE Automation, the app is a significant step towards inclusive public transport.
Cassie, who is legally blind, was inspired to create the ‘See Me’ app to aid people who are blind or vision-impaired, though it’s a valuable tool for all public transport users. The app aims to reduce anxiety and make travel more accessible and independent.
Starting this Monday, ‘See Me’ will be trialed for six months on the 99A and 99C free City Connector services in the Adelaide CBD. This digital innovation enables passengers to alert bus drivers of their presence at a stop without the traditional physical hailing. The app interacts with the bus’s onboard system, notifying drivers when a passenger is waiting. It also sends spoken, visual, and haptic notifications to passengers as the bus approaches their pick-up and drop-off points.
This development is not just about convenience; it’s a tool for empowerment, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their ability, can use public transport safely and independently. ‘See Me’ helps to eliminate the fear of missing stops and supports users in navigating their journeys with confidence.
Cassie’s ingenuity has been internationally recognized, as she was one of the three winners of the 2022 Holman Prize, awarded to innovators who are blind or legally blind. Furthermore, the app was named Initiative of the Year at the 2023 Australian Access Awards.
The app’s development was bolstered by a $500,000 investment from iMOVE Cooperative Research Centre’s Impact Extension Program, transitioning it from a proof-of-concept to a scalable solution. ‘See Me’ has already undergone successful trials in South Australia and Queensland, receiving valuable feedback from clients of Guide Dogs SA/NT and See Differently with the Royal Society for the Blind.
Tourists, who frequently use the trial routes, will also benefit from the app, ensuring they don’t miss their destinations while exploring Adelaide.
Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Tom Koutsantonis said that the See Me app helps provide greater inclusiveness for visually impaired people.
“The app will also increase accessibility for all users of public transport by providing users with the ability to review their route and be notified of their destination stop.”
“We’re proud to be working with Cassie in the trial of See Me and look forward to reviewing how the app can be integrated into our existing systems.”
Cassie Hames said “The See Me app is a dream of 15 years and based on my experiences and the experiences of many in the blind community using public transport independently. Going out into the community shouldn’t be less of an experience from one person to the next, regardless of ability, disability, or anything else.”
“As a frequent public transport user, I wanted to develop a solution that increases accessibility for all people so that everyone can feel comfortable, confident, and safe catching the bus.”
“See Me ensures no one is left behind.”
Lucy Hood MP, Member for Adelaide, said “I first met Cassie 12 months ago to learn all about the See Me app – and was blown away by her idea.”
“As a big supporter of the Free City Connector Bus, I couldn’t think of a better service to trial the technology.”
“It will make the City Connector even more accessible and inclusive and I can’t wait to hear the feedback from our local commuters.”
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