App Maps Out Wheelchair Access
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Mapping technology and software has transformed our lives -- think of how often you might pull up a Google map on your phone for directions or an address. But while it's great to know where something is that does you no good if you can't get in because you (or your friend) uses a wheelchair.
Wheelmap is an attempt to address the accessibility problem. An app designed by Raul Krauthausen, who is himself a wheelchair user, the app uses an open source database to construct a map showing which stores, theaters and tourist attractions are wheelchair accessible. The app (for iPhones) is free and users contribute to the database, either via the app or the web site.
Right now the app has the most information on German cities because that is where Krauthausen is from. But a Japanese version was recently added and the more users in other countries that add to the database the more useful it will be.
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