WThe ash processor has allowed women to engage in exhausting jobs that drain their leisure time. While social media sparked one revolution, it also led to the destabilization of democracies worldwide. Now, with the rise of AI, it appears that screenwriters might be among its primary targets for replacement. It’s easy to succumb to techno-pessimism; however, the new documentary *Seeing into the Future* (Sunday, 23 November, 8 PM, BBC Two) offers a fresh perspective. For individuals with disabilities, tech advancements are already making a significant impact, and this is just the beginning.
Hosted by comedian and *Strictly* champion Chris McCausland, who is visually impaired, the show features surprisingly captivating moments early on, such as how he utilizes his smartphone. Essentially, it serves as his eyes and voice. “What T-shirt is this?” he inquired while holding up the item. “Gray T-shirt with Deftones graphic logo,” his phone declared. It even informs him if his shirt requires ironing. However, McCausland was more curious about the origins of this technology and traveled to the U.S. to explore developments in the homes of tech leaders.
He visited Meta’s facility to test smart glasses. Personally, it felt as if he were either in a lair of a fictional villain or wandering around a castle for treats. This perspective reflects my lack of immediate necessity for such tech, as documentaries aim to unveil possibilities rather than highlight deficiencies. I imagine Mr. Zuckerberg isn’t lurking in a lab with pets or spinning in an egg chair.
I enjoy broadening my viewpoint. Although a button-less glass screen appears to be an exclusive gadget, McCausland acknowledges that his smartphone has turned into the most accessible device he has ever encountered. He expresses excitement about a device he whimsically refers to as Metaspec. This device is always active, offering live video descriptions and identifying what he’s viewing. It functions like a phone but is more like a wearable gadget. “A blind person will never have both hands free,” he remarks.
McCausland and Meta’s Vice President of Accessibility and Engagement Maxine Williams test out smart glasses.
Photo: BBC/Open Mic Productions
At MIT, he learned about nanotechnologies that may enable molecular devices to repair bodily cells. He experimented with a bionic walking aid that attaches to the calf to provide the wearer with additional strength, similar to the knee brace Bruce Wayne wore in *The Dark Knight Rises*. The most significant moment for him was traveling in a self-driving car, marking his first experience of riding alone in a vehicle.
Autonomous vehicles are anticipated to debut in the UK next spring (which feels like a long wait). My instinct is to label them as NOPE. Nevertheless, McCausland noted, “it’s not terribly different from trusting an unfamiliar driver.” These extraordinary cars come equipped with rotating radars that compute data, including the speed of light, to create a 3D model of their surroundings instantly. They might even feature gullwing doors. McCausland appreciated the self-operating handle, which adds a touch of intrigue. Coolness is likely the second best drive an engineer can pursue, the first being ensuring equal access to dignity and independent living. I must clarify that my skepticism doesn’t stem from just a general mistrust of technology; it leads to a mistrust of profit-driven big tech companies in considering public welfare or accountability.
The documentary also offers similar moments of delight, showcasing cultural disparities across the Atlantic. The participants are not merely Americans but the innovative minds of San Francisco. Unintentional comedy is enhanced by McCausland’s dry wit; even while discussing a blood-based computer with a nanotechnologist that could potentially restore eyesight, he seems more inclined to grab a pint at the pub than delve into futuristic devices.
The technology portrayed is distinctly American. “Can you hear the plane?” McCausland urged Zuckerberg to test out the glasses. “Yes, I can see the plane in the clear blue sky,” a serious, bespectacled participant replied. McCausland then exchanged a wry look with his camera crew, quipping, “Do they appear to know what they’re doing?” Judging by their gear, it seems they are indeed professionals. While gadgets become more capable of divine-like capabilities, a layer of skepticism remains, even when wearing Batman’s leg braces.
Source: www.theguardian.com
