SIER
SIER (Seeing Is Everyone’s Right) is a startup founded on the principle that accessibility should be both
exceptional and affordable for everyone. Explore more about SIER and our mission below.
Year One: Research and Exploration
In our first year, we focused extensively on researching the problem space, interviewing users, and exploring the technical challenges of hardware and software development. We created a simple hardware design and iteratively tested it with our novel depth-to-sound model, gathering valuable insights at every step.
This year was all about understanding the moving parts—user needs, technical feasibility, and the core challenges of making accessibility tools both impactful and affordable.
Year Two: Building and Refining
In year two, we developed multiple iterations of fully functional smart glasses, collaborating with vetted OEMs to create custom hardware. We gained experience managing an overseas team, working with computer vision experts to improve processes like camera calibration, and designing for manufacturing while optimizing costs at scale.
This phase involved evaluating feature trade-offs, balancing BOM costs with development timelines, and refining hardware and software through iterative testing with user groups. Each iteration brought us closer to delivering a scalable, polished solution aligned with our mission to democratize accessibility tools.
Our progress was looking great! But there was a problem...
To tool our injection molds and meet even the lowest MOQ with a supportive manufacturer, we needed to raise significant funds. Worse, production would take a year and a half for our first units to be ready—far too slow in a rapidly evolving space. It simply wasn’t viable, so we decided to pivot and focus on a design that would let us get units out faster.
Summer 24'
Our first time going full-time, we spent three months creating over a hundred prototypes to repackage the value of our smart glasses system into a compact, manufacturable unit. It was a nonstop cycle of researching, building, soldering, coding, testing, and ideating to ensure our device could run uninterrupted, providing all-day support.
We leveraged advancements in AI to replace our computer vision-based system, developed a patented iPhone video converter, and designed our first version of SIERs AI smart clip accessory: the Sidekick™!
From there, we tested the Sidekick with a variety of stakeholders and users. Through pilot programs and conversations with organizations, we refined our go-to-market strategy and plans for scaling.
Next up? Something incredible.
SIER is brining to life its newest version of Sidekick™ with select partners. It plans to launch soon as SIER's flagship product.