“Hey Meta…Look and Describe”
By: Michelle Pritchett
“Hey Meta, look and describe.”
This is a common command Danville native Phyllis Pritchett says throughout her day and it has improved her life.
Over 15 years ago, Pritchett was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, an eye disease that causes progressive vision loss. She initially lost her peripheral vision and often described her sight as looking through two straws. Now her vision is 95% gone.
To help adapt to her vision loss, Pritchett became acquainted with a low vision company in her community of Sarasota, Florida. Nearly a year ago, she learned of Ray-Ban Meta AI integrated glasses and was immediately interested.
After a demonstration and training session in her home where she learned she could read her mail, text friends, and answer phone calls, all through her glasses, she decided to purchase a pair.
“The trainer told me to open my refrigerator and ask Meta to find the ham salad, and I was given the response ‘second shelf on left side.’ That’s what sold me on the glasses right then and there,” said Pritchett.
She shared additional examples that impressed her.
Needing to find a red shirt in her closet, Pritchett asked Meta to look and find the red shirt. Meta quickly responded that it was on the second hanger on the left.
During a visit to Walmart with a friend, they were having difficulty finding the wood glue, so she decided to try out her glasses. Again, Meta’s prompt response was that it was on the bottom shelf on the right.
Pritchett made it clear that the glasses don’t improve her vision. Their use is to help her navigate her surroundings. And while AI integrated glasses can be purchased online, she opted to buy directly from the manufacturer at the suggestion of her eye doctor. By going this route, she received hands-on training and one year of support. Although this was an additional cost, Pritchett said it was beyond worth it.
The glasses have a six hour run time and take approximately 20 minutes to charge. Charging occurs in the case, similar to charging air pods. Additionally, they operate on specific commands which are part of the learning curve. Price for the glasses range from $300-$500.
What is Pritchett’s favorite thing about her Ray-Ban Meta glasses?
“I can read my mail. And I can read a book or have a book read to me,” shared Pritchett. “They help me to be independent and when you live alone, you need all the help you can get.”
Since owning her smart glasses, she has demonstrated them to friends and neighbors and has assisted four people in getting a pair. She said jokingly that she hasn’t received a commission check, but that it’s OK, because helping people is what it’s all about.
If you or someone you know is interested in learning more, Pritchett suggested starting with your eye doctor or ophthalmalogist. They can point you in the right direction for local manufacturers of AI integrated eyewear.
Phyllis Pritchett shown with her grandson Cody Orr and his wife, Taylor, of Pittsboro, and great-grandchildren Remi, Colt, and Crew during a recent family vacation in North Carolina.
