We present in this paper the state of the art and an analysis of recent research work and achievements performed in the domain of AI-based and vision-based systems for helping blind and visually impaired people (BVIP). We start by highlighting the recent and tremendous importance that AI has acquired following the use of convolutional neural networks (CNN) and their ability to solve image classification tasks efficiently. After that, we also note that VIP have high expectations about AI-based systems as a possible way to ease the perception of their environment and to improve their everyday life. Then, we set the scope of our survey: we concentrate our investigations on the use of CNN or related methods in a vision-based system for helping BVIP. We analyze the existing surveys, and we study the current work (a selection of 30 case studies) using several dimensions such as acquired data, learned models, and human–computer interfaces. We compare the different approaches, and conclude by analyzing future trends in this domain.

We present in this article an augmented reality system called VISIT designed to deliver content about artworks to visitors. This system aims to simplify the use of augmented reality by allowing (non-computer) users to define content and place it in 3D around an artwork. VISIT is composed of two main generic elements with respect to historical or artistic content: a Web interface allows to represent in a cloud all the necessary information (sites, areas, artworks, media) to define the augmented reality content that visitors will see. Its use is simple and accessible to non-computer specialists and does not require additional software development or special hardware. A mobile augmented reality application under Android will use this content and deliver it to the visitor on his/her smartphone. The application automatically detects the presence of the artworks and then places the 3D content as specified in the Web interface. The visitors can choose the elements that interest them. The user’s actions are recorded and allow site managers to analyze their behavior. VISIT is operational and we tested it in the context of a large-scale exhibition at the Château d’Azay-Le-Rideau in France. We conclude with the progress achieved as well as the limits and perspectives of our work.