Union Bank of India unveils 'Talking ATM'

Ahmedabad, June 6 (IBNS) Public sector unit Union Bank of India (UBI) on Wednesday launched 'Talking ATM', an 'Accessible ATM' presented by NCR Corporation at The Blind People Association in Ahmedabad.

An Accessible ATM is disabled-friendly and is designed in a way which allows the complete transaction process to be independently carried by the person with disabilities.

This requires provision of wheelchair ramp and audio prompts which not only read aloud screen messages but also provides a complete directional guidance for a customer to be oriented to the machine and use it.

NCR, a leading global ATM manufacturer, has developed exclusive customized ATMs which, it said, would truly benefit such bank customers.

UBI together with NCR deployed one NCR "Voice Guidance Solution" along with NCR Cash Dispenser Self Serv 22e.

The Talking ATM along with an ASA-approved keypad with Braille stickers, audio sounds, voice-guidance and provision of wheelchair ramps caters to the needs of the visually impaired and would be accessible to persons with disability.

The ATM has headphones attached to it so that such customers can hear the instructions and fill in the required data.

The labels on the ATMs are written in Braille.

There is also an option to blank out the screen as a safety mechanism to ensure that no bystander misuses the pin.

Nagesh Nayak, Professional Services Practice Manager, NCR said: "As more Talking ATMs are deployed, access to self-service technology is ensured which is making the lives of persons with disabilities more convenient."