American teen creates tech to help blind communicate with household appliances

14-year-old Jack DuPlessis from Kentucky in the United States has created a device that helps the blind get audio feedback from their washing machines and dryers.

He developed the Talking Laundry module the GE innovation hub, where his father works as design leader.

The technology can help the visually impaired remain independent. Modern appliances are not very user-friendly for people with visual impairments so Jack ensured he took constant feedback from those who are blind to improve the device. The device can announce, on command, how much time remains on a washing or drying cycle.

The device is the size of a portable hard drive and needs a power connection. The Talking Laundry module is already improving the sales of GE Appliances.