
Revolutionizing Accessibility: Walmart and Aira Empower the Blind Community
On a quiet Wednesday morning in Allen, Texas, Paula Margeson takes a momentous step. With her white cane in one hand and smartphone in the other, she independently navigates the aisles of her local Walmart, reclaiming a freedom often taken for granted: shopping for groceries. For Paula, who has been blind for more than 30 years, this simple act symbolizes a major leap forward in accessibility and independence.
Paula’s newfound autonomy is made possible through Walmart’s innovative partnership with Aira, a mobile application that connects blind and low-vision users with sighted interpreters in real time. By leveraging a smartphone camera or wearable technology, Aira interpreters act as the user’s eyes, providing detailed visual information to assist with navigation, product identification, and more. This cutting-edge service is now available to Walmart customers entirely free of charge, underscoring the retailer’s commitment to inclusivity.
A New Era of Independent Shopping
For members of the blind and low-vision community, shopping independently can often feel like an insurmountable challenge. Tasks as simple as reading product labels, discerning colors, or navigating crowded aisles often require assistance from friends, family, or store employees. Walmart’s partnership with Aira changes this dynamic by enabling users to access professional visual interpreters whenever they need them.
“I think the most significant impact of this partnership is demonstrating to the world that Walmart and Aira truly prioritize the needs of their customers,” said Everette Bacon, Aira’s Chief of Blindness Initiatives and a member of the blind community himself. “It reflects Walmart’s dedication to offering inclusive services and leading the way in accessibility.”
For Paula, the collaboration between Walmart and Aira brings a new level of joy and independence to her life. One of the most meaningful benefits, she says, is the ability to shop for gifts without assistance—a seemingly simple act that restores a sense of privacy and personal agency.
“Every year when I want to go Christmas shopping for my husband, I have to ask someone to take me,” Paula explained. “I always felt like I was imposing on my friends or family. This year, for the very first time, I’m excited to shop for my husband’s Christmas present all by myself!”
Transforming the Shopping Experience
Aira’s interpreters are trained to provide objective feedback, allowing users to make decisions entirely on their own terms. Whether determining the exact shade of a tie or deciphering the message on a birthday card, customers can explore products at their own pace. Since Aira is offered for free at Walmart locations and on Walmart.com, users can take as much time as they need to make informed choices without the pressure of time limits.
“Not having to depend on someone else—whether it’s a friend, family member, or store employee—gives me a sense of freedom,” Everette said. “It’s empowering to complete tasks on my own time and terms.”
A Broader Commitment to Accessibility
Walmart’s efforts to enhance accessibility extend beyond its partnership with Aira. The company’s Accessibility Center of Excellence, led by Gayatri Agnew, is focused on ensuring that all customers, regardless of ability, have a seamless and enjoyable shopping experience. In 2023, Walmart rolled out several initiatives aligned with this mission, including sensory-friendly shopping hours, adaptive product lines, and the introduction of Caroline’s Carts—specially designed shopping carts for children with disabilities.
“The reality is, we have many shoppers with disabilities, and we want to ensure their experience is as good, if not better, than that of someone without a disability,” Gayatri said. “Our goal is to make Walmart a place where everyone feels they belong.”
This dedication to inclusivity is evident in every aspect of Walmart’s operations, from physical stores to its online platforms. By offering a range of accessible options, Walmart empowers all customers to shop in the way that suits them best.
Paving the Way for a More Inclusive Future
Through its partnership with Aira and other accessibility initiatives, Walmart is setting a powerful example for the retail industry. For Paula Margeson and countless others, these efforts represent more than just convenience—they are a gateway to independence, dignity, and a renewed sense of belonging.
No matter how or where customers choose to shop, Walmart’s message is clear: everyone deserves an empowering and inclusive experience.