New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) has launched a pilot program for the NaviLens technology in New Brunswick.
The NaviLens program technology uses special QR-style codes to enable customers to use their smart devices at NJ Transit bus stops to get a host of service information and assistance.
The technology also provides augmented reality navigation, as well as bus arrival information and service status once customers use their camera feature and the NaviLens app on their smart device to scan the NaviLens code displayed at bus stops. NaviLens will read signs out loud and provide bus arrival information in text and audio to help visually impaired customers navigate the bus stop. NaviLens also supports 34 languages to suit the customer’s preference.
The technology also provides visually impaired customers with directional wayfinding and audio information. The color coded QR-style codes can be read by devices 12 times farther away than traditional QR codes so visually impaired customers don’t need to know the exact placement of the signage at the bus stop.
“Enhancing accessibility continues to be a top priority for NJ Transit,” said New Jersey Department of Transportation Commissioner and NJ Transit Board Chair Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti. “This technology is a game changer for our bus network, by combining service information and language and visual support in an inclusive and accessible way for all customers to benefit.”
“This pilot represents NJ Transit’s continued commitment to maximizing accessibility to our system for all those who rely on public transit,” said NJ President and CEO Kevin S. Corbett. “We’re pleased to pilot NaviLens in New Brunswick, where thousands of NJ Transit bus customers will have an opportunity to use this exciting new technology to enhance their travel experience.”
The pilot program in New Brunswick includes 51 NaviLens signs installed at bus stops with existing MyBus signs. The unique QR-style NaviLens codes can be detected from up to 60 feet away.
"It’s very exciting to launch this new pilot program right here in Middlesex County that will help thousands of customers better navigate our system with cutting edge technology,” said NJ Transit Board Member and Middlesex County Commissioner Shanti Narra. “This program will increase accessibility and improve the transit needs of this community and beyond.”
NJ Transit will examine results of the pilot program to determine if expansion throughout the system and integration with NJ Transit’s mobile app is feasible.
