Together, we have created WatchWord, an innovative solution that utilises wearable AR glasses, and a native mobile application, to give freedom of choice to millions of underserved cinemagoers.
The glasses connect to a handheld control unit, complete with a bespoke application, that allows users to personalise captions according to their preferences, from adjusting text size and position to choosing colours and more.
The glasses sync wirelessly to broadcasts of pre-prepared captions that follow the on-screen action in real-time. Working collaboratively with our client throughout the discovery, design and development process, atomic were able to create an innovative, empowering solution that defies the limits of existing assistive systems. WatchWord allows people to attend any screening, no longer limited to subtitle-only showings.
Bridging the accessibility gap
The UK has up to 12 million residents with hearing loss who miss out on cinema because accessible screenings are limited; with fewer than 2% of showings providing captioning. WatchWord allows people with hearing loss to attend any mainstream cinema showing, at no extra cost.
Comfortably accessible
Atomic are passionate about accessibility. Where possible, we follow best practice in all our development projects so our digital products can provide an enjoyable and accessible experience. We are especially proud to have been part of this initiative, which is a fantastic example of how technology can be used to positively impact people’s lives and promote equality.
The lightweight, ergonomic glasses are designed for comfort, easily fitting over most prescription eyeglasses. They are also compatible with common hearing assistive devices like hearing aids and cochlear implants.
Immersive & seamless
When wearing the AR glasses, subtitles appear seamlessly integrated into the user’s field of vision, and can be adjusted to suit their personal preference, changing the size, colour and positioning of the captions.
