In this fast-paced world, the concept of smart cities is rapidly gaining momentum. At the forefront of this technological revolution is a groundbreaking new application that is set to redefine urban mobility and accessibility. Today we are pleased to announce that Mapxus is introducing an innovative app CityGeni that puts barrier-free navigation at the heart of smarter cities, offering a continuous and inclusive experience for all people, the public, visitors, and individuals with disabilities. The CityGeni launch ceremony took place at The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong, the first university to fully digitalize its entire campus.
CityGeni is a revolutionary application that provides a wide range of features tailored to meet the diverse needs of users, making it easier for everyone to navigate and engage with their surroundings. Whether it's providing real-time navigation guidance, delivering essential information about nearby facilities, or offering specialized support for individuals with different abilities, this app sets a new standard for user-friendly and inclusive technology in this planet. By bridging gaps and breaking barriers, this app is truly a game-changer in improving the overall experience and quality of life for people from all walks of life. One of the standout features of the app is its inclusive design, which includes both text and audio-only modes tailored specifically for impaired users. Mr. John Chan, CEO of Mapxus, said, “By providing multiple modes of interaction, the app ensures that all users, regardless of their abilities, can easily navigate and engage with the platform.” He continued, “We feel very proud of our new app that can help our cities to become a smarter and better one for everyone.”
In addition to its comprehensive design, the app also offers an assistive tool designed to help people explore a city with ease. Mr. John Chan stated, “Thanks to property owners who embrace Corporate Social Responsibility and provide accessible information, communities champion inclusivity and equality to ensure everyone can enjoy the city, and collaborations between technology partners like Mapxus and Microsoft leverage Community Spatial Data Infrastructure (CSDI) to develop impactful applications for societal benefit. The app proves its worth whether it's finding the nearest accessible route, detecting wheelchair-friendly facilities, or identifying locations of interest.” Users can access the support they need to navigate urban environments confidently and independently.
Mr. Ivan Cheung, Product Director of Mapxus, said, “What sets this app apart is its scalability, making it suitable for citywide applications. The app effortlessly adapts to different urban settings, offering a consistent and reliable navigation experience across diverse landscapes.” This scalability not only enhances the app's accessibility but also ensures that users can rely on it wherever they go. Together with the seamless shop browsing function, the app not only allows users to discover nearby stores and services but also the special activities and offers the shops provide. Users can share their location information with friends, making meetups and social gatherings a breeze and interesting. By facilitating easy communication and coordination, the app fosters social connections and community engagement, further enriching the urban experience.
Apart from the above, the development of this innovative app was supported by comprehensive user research conducted in key markets such as Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Taiwan. Through extensive user feedback and testing, the app's developers gained valuable insights into the needs and preferences of users, ensuring that the final product is tailored to meet their expectations.
The Hong Kong Blind Union will become Mapxus' strategic partner in the Hong Kong region, jointly promoting the CityGeni mobile application to make Hong Kong an inclusive smart city. Mr. Wong Chun-hang, President of the Hong Kong Blind Union, said, "The Hong Kong Blind Union is the first self-help organization in Hong Kong that is organized and managed by the visually impaired. We are delighted to collaborate with Mapxus to realize inclusive smart mobility for the visually impaired through CityGeni, allowing us to experience the benefits of a smart city and innovative technology."
The response from users has been positive, with many expressing satisfactions with the app's user-friendly interface and experience. Users have praised the app for its intuitive design, ease of use, and ability to enhance their mobility and independence in a city. With its user-centric approach and focus on accessibility, the app has quickly become a trusted companion for users seeking to navigate and explore smart cities with confidence.
As smart cities continue to evolve and embrace technology-driven solutions, the importance of barrier-free navigation cannot be overstated. With innovative features, inclusive designs, and user-centric approaches, this new app is poised to lead the way in shaping the future of urban mobility. By unlocking free navigation for all users, the app is not just transforming the way we navigate cities – it's paving the way for a more connected and accessible city future.