Personal GPS Helps Blind Navigate

"The handheld device, dubbed 'Tormes,' was unveiled in Madrid in early June. It weighs less than one kilogram (about 2 pounds), comes with a Braille keyboard and a voice synthesizer, and taps the global positioning satellite system to provide verbal directions. Added software and a database of city maps give immediate feedback about the users' surroundings...Even with the increased accuracy, though, the device cannot alert the blind to small obstacles like stairs or street curbs. Walking canes or guide dogs won't become obsolete."