NaviLens

NaviLens: travel info at your stop, directly on your phone

Traveling by bus or tram isn’t easy for everyone. If you have low or no vision, you might hesitate. Am I at the right stop? Is my line coming? How long until the next bus? NaviLens helps you with this.

How NaviLens works

At every bus and tram stop in Utrecht province, you’ll find colorful NaviLens codes on signs and posters. The free NaviLens app scans these codes using your camera. Then your phone tells you exactly what you need to know:

• Which stop you're at
• Which lines stop here
• When the next bus or tram departs

NaviLens example code

No asking for help. No searching. Just travel independently. 

How to use NaviLens in 5 steps:

1. Download the free NaviLens app. Search for NaviLens in the App Store or Play Store
2. Open the app at the stop
3. Move your phone to automatically detect the NaviLens code on the sign. Precise aiming isn’t needed. The app sees the code automatically, even from 10 meters away! 
4. Too far? The app guides you with speech and high-contrast cues to scan the code.
   Note: this app’s routing doesn’t replace your own perception or tactile guide paths. The green arrow shows direction and supports orientation. 
5. Your phone reads out: stop name, lines stopping here, and when the next bus or tram arrives

Tip: There’s also the free NaviLens GO app. It shows the same info as digital displays on your phone in 30+ languages. Perfect for stops without digital boards or tourists wanting info in their language.  

Who is NaviLens for?

• For travelers with visual impairments: Be certain you’re in the right place, hear which line is coming, and travel with less stress and more confidence.
• For all other travelers: Quickly check departure times on your phone without reading small text or displays. Convenient and accessible for everyone.

NaviLens: Developed for those with visual impairments, but useful for all. 

Proven technology

NaviLens was tested by visually impaired travelers at major stations like Amsterdam Central and Barcelona. Their feedback:
"Easy to use, clear info" and "I feel more confident, even when crowded."  

Help us improve NaviLens 

Do you travel with a visual impairment? Try NaviLens and share your experience via our customer service or the U-panel (the U-OV traveler panel). Together, we make public transport more accessible. 

FAQs: 

How do I scan a code? 
The free NaviLens app uses your camera to scan codes automatically. It detects codes up to 10 meters away, so you don’t need to aim precisely. Just hold your phone in front of you.  

Do I need to point the camera directly to scan a code? 
Many dislike holding the camera straight ahead. With NaviLens, just scan the code. Can't find it? Then you may need to lift the camera briefly. After that, you can lower it to locate the code and get info.  

How does NaviLens know where I am? 
Each bus and tram stop has a unique code. This ensures you always get the right info.  

Where can I use NaviLens? 
Every bus and tram stop in Utrecht province has a NaviLens code.