How to Build a Reading Assistant with AI
Blog post from Roboflow
Advancements in computer vision have enabled the development of an interactive reading assistant that utilizes object detection and optical character recognition (OCR) models to detect specific words in images and read them aloud using GPT-4. This system aids readers in understanding and pronouncing unfamiliar words by detecting a word, typically pointed out by a fingertip, and converting it into audio. The process involves creating a project in Roboflow, adding images and annotations, and developing a multi-stage computer vision application using the Workflows tool. The setup requires object detection to identify the finger, OCR to extract the word, and a text-to-speech function to vocalize it, leveraging OpenAI's API for audio output. The guide also provides steps for setting up the necessary libraries, building object detection functions, and integrating the workflow code for a seamless operation, demonstrating the practical application of AI in enhancing reading experiences with minimal coding requirements.