ROYAL OAK, Mich. – The Detroit Zoological Society introduced new technology aimed at assisting individuals with low vision.
This innovative solution is accessible through a mobile app, offering enhanced experiences at the Detroit Zoo and Belle Isle Nature Center.
At the Detroit Zoo, known for its tagline “Where Life Connects,” efforts are underway to expand its mission by supporting people with specific visual impairments.
The zoo is a popular destination for encountering wildlife up close, and for some, the experience is now even more vivid because of their mobile devices.
The Holden Reptile Conservation Center, a warm retreat from the cold, offers visitors like Kate Burkett a chance to observe animals in their habitats.
“I like coming in here because it’s nice and warm during a winter day and you get to see all the animals in their different habitats,” Burkett said.
Dr. De’Andrea Matthews, vice president of diversity and community engagement at the Detroit Zoological Society, emphasizes the importance of inclusivity. She doesn’t want one person to miss those moments.
“We are always looking to create connections so that people, animals and the natural world can thrive,” Dr. Matthews explained.
The nonprofit partnered with ReBokeh, a mobile app designed to assist those with low vision—a condition that affects daily tasks and can’t be corrected with lenses, medicine, or surgery.
Dr. Matthews elaborates on the app’s functionality while addressing how some may wonder if it’s any different than a camera app.
“Sure, the camera app can zoom in, but this offers some really unique features,” she said. “For example, you can invert it and see it in a different light.”
ReBokeh allows users to overlay filters to adjust contrast, color hue, and lighting settings. The DZA had a soft launch this month, coinciding with Low Vision Awareness Month.
“It could be a gamechanger in how they enjoy the zoo” Dr. Matthews said.
Home to over 2,000 animals, the zoo is now using technology to bring wildlife into sharper focus for some visitors. ReBokeh will officially launch on Mar. 7, but it is already available for free to download and use at the Detroit Zoo and Belle Isle Nature Center, with no sign-up required.
