Selected
Re-engaging Learners

Annie

Self-learning Braille literacy device that helps the visually impaired learn to read, write, and type in Braille through audio-guided content.

Team Leader
Sanskriti Dawle
Annie is a self-learning braille literacy device for independent learning, while Tactera is a refreshable braille display for real-time access to digital information.

Solution Pitch

The Problem

Braille literacy rates across the globe are abysmal. Lack of special educators, insufficient STEM content in Braille, and lack of general awareness have contributed to inefficient rehabilitation among the visually impaired. It is essential to address this issue because there is a high correlation between Braille literacy and employment.

The Solution

Annie is the world’s first Braille literacy device that helps the visually impaired learn to read, write, and type in Braille, on their own through interactive audio-guided content in vernacular languages. Annie allows for easy monitoring and evaluation of student progress via Helios (analytics) and downloading of new content by seamlessly integrating with the ecosystem. It also allows for the scheduling of tests and lessons and also enables teachers to give homework.

Stats

  • Annie currently has 1,200 device users who are located across India and the US. 

  • These stakeholders are impacted through various means, one of which is equitable economic growth.

Market Opportunity

The target population is visually impaired learners below the age of 15; 19 million learners worldwide.

Organization Highlights

  • Thinkerbell Labs has partnered with American Printing House for the blind (APH) to launch Polly, the US variant of Annie, nationwide in the US.

  • APH has ensured success in the field of Braille literacy by co-developing the content.

Partnership Goals

Annie seeks:

  • Expertise on delivery / sourcing logistics of solution

  • Expertise on grant applications

What is the name of your organization?
Thinkerbell Labs
What is the name of your solution?
Annie
Provide a one-line summary or tagline for your solution.
Annie is a self-learning braille literacy device for independent learning, while Tactera is a refreshable braille display for real-time access to digital information.
In what city, town, or region is your solution team headquartered?
Bangalore, Karnataka
In what country is your solution team headquartered?
India
What type of organization is your solution team?
For-Profit
Film your elevator pitch.
What specific problem are you solving?
Braille literacy rates across the globe are abysmal. Lack of special educators, insufficient STEM content in Braille, and lack of general awareness have contributed to inefficient rehabilitation among the visually impaired. It is essential to address this issue because there is a high correlation between Braille literacy and employment.
What is your solution?
Annie is the world's first Braille literacy device that helps the visually impaired learn to read, write, and type in Braille, on their own through interactive audio-guided content in vernacular languages. Annie allows for easy monitoring and evaluation of student progress via Helios (analytics) and downloading of new content by seamlessly integrating with the ecosystem. It also allows for the scheduling of tests and lessons and also enables teachers to give homework.
Who does your solution serve, and in what ways will the solution impact their lives?
Annie serves children with visual impairment in schools, resource centres, and inclusive classrooms, along with teachers and caregivers who support learning. By making braille literacy interactive, self-paced, and measurable, Annie helps children read, write, and build academic skills independently. This reduces dependence on one-to-one instruction, improves outcomes, builds confidence, and helps students keep pace with grade-level education. For educators and institutions, Annie provides structured content and insights that make braille instruction more effective and scalable. Tactera serves students, professionals, and adults with visual impairment who need access to digital devices and information. As a refreshable braille display, Tactera allows users to read, write, code, browse, and work on computers and smart devices in real time. This removes barriers to education, employment, and communication, enabling participation in digital learning and professional spaces, increasing opportunities for higher education, employment, and independent living.

Headquarters: Bangalore, Karnataka, India

Stage: Growth

Working In: India, United States

Current Employees: 26

Solution Website: https://thinkerbelllabs.com/

Solution Team:
Sanskriti Dawle
Sanskriti Dawle
CEO