Project: Braille Blocks
Making Braille Learning Playful Through Music, Technology, and LEGO®
Overview
Braille Blocks is an innovative project from Playable Technology that combines machine learning, music creation, and the tactile fun of LEGO® Braille Bricks to support early Braille and Braille music literacy. Built on the foundations of our award-winning BeatBlocks technology, the project aims to make learning Braille more accessible, engaging, and joyful—through play.
How It Started
In 2024 the opportunity arose to present our BeatBlocks and BeatBlocks Live technology at the LEGO House in Billund. Our demo showcased how music could be created through real-time camera detection and physical interaction —prompting exciting conversations about how this technology might be adapted to support Braille literacy and music education using LEGO Braille Bricks.
We left Billund energized, set of LEGO Braille Bricks in hand, minds buzzing with ideas. Inspired by conversations with the LEGO Foundation and LEGO Braille Programme teams, we set out to develop a prototype that could detect Braille bricks, read them aloud, and turn them into music — ready for sharing with educators from the vision impairment community to explore its impact in real learning environments.
Where We Are Now
We've made substantial progress. Here's what's been achieved:
New iOS app built specifically for Braille Blocks.
Machine learning model extended to recognise around 50% of the English language Braille Brick types.
VoiceOver compatibility, with bespoke accessibility features.
Dual Mode operation:
Braille Mode reads letters, words, and numbers.
Music Mode lets users build and loop musical patterns.
Braille Blocks App Demo
A demo version of the app is now live on TestFlight. Early testing with Braille and music education experts at the Scottish Sensory Centre has sparked exciting conversations around the app’s educational potential.
For a deeper dive into setup, features, and technical notes, a User Testing Guide (PDF) will be made available to members of our testing group.
Our Goals
Support early learners of Braille and Braille music through interactive play.
Enable self-expression through sound.
Co-create with educators, learners and families, to ensure the tools we build truly reflect the needs of the community.
Build sustainable impact through partnerships and funding.
We Need Your Help
Teachers, Educators, and Families
If you work with visually impaired learners, we’d love to invite you to join our our testing group. Your feedback will help shape the next stage of Braille Blocks.
Funders and Supporters
Playable has self-funded the project so far. To reach more learners and grow the impact, we’re creating a not-for-profit dedicated to inclusive play—and we need your support.
A New Not-for-Profit Initiative
To support and grow Braille Blocks and similar initiatives, we are launching a not-for-profit organisation guided by the following:
Mission
To innovate, develop, and support technology that enables play in all its forms, for all ages worldwide.
Values
Accessibility – Play should be available to everyone.
Inclusivity – Our work must serve and reflect diverse communities.
Fun – Because joy is essential to learning and life.
Community Goals
We aim to build a global community where play is a catalyst for creativity, learning, and joy—through inclusive, empowering technology.
Get Involved
Want to test Braille Blocks or explore funding opportunities? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly! We can't wait to hear from you.
Introducing Braille Blocks by Playable Technology – an innovative app designed to support tactile learning with LEGO® Braille Bricks. Using your iPhone or iPad, the app recognizes letter, number, and musical note patterns, responding in real time with speech or sound. In Braille Mode, learners can build and hear words and numbers, while Music Mode turns the bricks into musical notes. Designed for accessibility and engagement, Braille Blocks is a powerful educational tool for educators, learners, and families. Get in touch to learn more.