Zero Project Awardee 2026Updated on 2 December 2025
An app supporting Deaf persons with vibration alerts and text-based communication
Essl Foundation - Zero Project
Austria
About
Taptic, a tech start-up based in Westfield, Indiana, develops wearable solutions that use vibration signals to support navigation of persons with hearing disabilities. The Taptic app uses advanced AI and sound recognition algorithms to detect specific environmental sounds, such as shouts, alarms, or knocks, and converts them into vibration signals and on-screen alerts. The free version aims at recognizing any dangers, whereas the premium version enables conversations and tours, such as in museums. Launched in 2024, by mid-2025 it had over 2,800 users.
Solution: Taptic App
Organization: Taptic
Country of Implementation: United States
Find out more here: Zero Project Database
[Alt text: A smartphone and smartwatch display an accessibility feature that detects important sounds like door knocks or alarms, sending alerts to the user. The technology enhances independence and safety, especially for Deaf people, showing how design can support inclusion.]
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