NaviLens
NaviLens is an accessible wayfinding technology and digital signage that helps blind and low-vision students, employees, and visitors independently navigate Cal Poly’s campus by instantly accessing location-based information using a smartphone. In 2023, the Disability Resource Center initiated a pilot to encourage adoption of NaviLens in locations across campus.
How NaviLens Works
NaviLens uses high-contrast, colorful codes (or tags) placed around campus that can be detected by a smartphone without needing to aim, focus, or scan closely.
Step-by-step instructions for use
1. Install the free NaviLens app on your smartphone.
- The standard NaviLens app focuses primarily on audio delivery of information and is optimized for people who are blind or have significant vision loss.
- The NaviLens GO app provides the same NaviLens content to sighted users who prefer a more visual format.
2. Open the app and point the phone generally forward — no precise alignment is required.
3. The app automatically detects nearby NaviLens codes (or tags), even from several meters away.
4. Information is delivered through audio, visual, or vibration feedback, based on user settings.
What the codes provide
- Building names and entrances
- Room numbers and services
- Directions and orientation cues
- Transit information (e.g., bus schedules)
- Campus-specific information or links
How NaviLens codes differ from standard QR codes
- Designed specifically for blind and low-vision users
- Work from a distance and within a wide field of view
- Do not require camera focus
- User can detect codes while moving
- Works in varied light conditions both outdoors and indoors
Accessibility features
- Spoken directions and information
- Adjustable text size and contrast
- Multilingual support (34 languages)
- Multimodal feedback (audio, visual, haptic)
Where NaviLens is used on campus
NaviLens codes are placed in high-traffic and key navigation areas, such as:
- Student Services Building (Disability Resource Center)
- University Union
- More to come soon
Free NaviLens Codes
NaviLens provides free kits containing codes/tags for settings such as Educational institution, Health center, Library. These free tags can be used to mark the locations for common building features such as stairs, elevators, bathrooms, and water dispensers. Departments can brand their free kits by uploading their department logo or the Cal Poly logo.
Contact information
For questions or to request custom NaviLens codes for your area on campus, contact John Lee (jlee245@calpoly.edu). You can also submit a request via the NaviLens Code Content Form (for campus members only).