In a significant development for the visually impaired community, Be My Eyes, the renowned company providing visual assistance through AI and volunteers, has announced its acquisition of AppleVis, a critical online resource for accessibility advice on Apple and other technologies. The news comes as a relief to many, following AppleVis founder David Goodwin’s July announcement that the website would close permanently at the end of August 2024.
Be My Eyes CEO Mike Buckley emphasized the importance of preserving AppleVis, stating, “David Goodwin built something remarkable and immensely valuable. We quickly concluded that we had to do something to keep such an important and loved community resource available.”
Under the terms of the acquisition, Be My Eyes will take ownership of the AppleVis website and brand, along with a license to all content. The company has committed to maintaining editorial independence for the AppleVis team and contributors. To ensure continuity, Be My Eyes will add two paid staff positions and retain key AppleVis volunteers.
News letter
Bryan Bashin, Vice Chairman of Be My Eyes and himself visually impaired, will oversee the new AppleVis organization. Bashin highlighted the synergy between the two platforms, noting, “Their intra-community forum, technology reviews, guides, advice, awards, report cards, and active discussions, combined with our own giant user community, makes a powerful voice that is certainly greater than the sum of its parts.”
The acquisition was finalized on August 28, 2024, with plans to keep the site available in read-only mode initially. Full functionality is expected to be restored by September 9, 2024, just in time for Apple’s fall software releases. This timing will allow AppleVis to provide its usual comprehensive coverage of new iOS and macOS updates, including detailed analysis of accessibility features.
David Goodwin, founder of AppleVis, expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, saying, “Partnering with such a globally trusted, and valued technology partner as Be My Eyes could not have been a better outcome, and I look forward to the ongoing growth and evolution of AppleVis under their stewardship.”
This acquisition not only ensures the survival of a crucial resource for the visually impaired community but also promises potential growth and improvements in the future. As both organizations share similar values and missions, users can expect continued high-quality content and support in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of accessible technology.