Waymap, a London-based start-up that develops tools which help blind and visually disabled people navigate indoors, has raised £7 million.

The company’s app uses map data to allow blind people to navigate independent of GPS, WiFi, or mobile data, for example in areas like the London Underground where reception isn’t available.

The platform also uses an algorithm it calls SmartStep, which collects data from the motion sensors of the user’s smartphone and tracks the their steps.

Waymap claims that it can pinpoint users' locations with an accuracy of up to one metre.

The round was led by the TELUS Pollinator Fund for Good, while Venrex and Comprador Holdings also participated in the round.

The firm says it will use the new funding to continue international expansion, as well as to grow the number of areas in Asia Pacific and the Middle East it has mapped and complement its current presence in North America and Europe.

The company also said it will use the capital to explore how AI, visual positioning and 5G edge computing can be used for greater localisation accuracy.

In addition, the firm is now set to deploy its technology across the entire Washington DC area in conjunction with the local Metro.

"We're pleased to celebrate our first investment in the UK by leading a financial round in Waymap, which underscores the strength and growth potential of the purpose-driven startup's product and its strong leadership that works tirelessly to help visually impaired people safely navigate their daily lives,” said Blair Miller, Managing Partner, TELUS Pollinator Fund. "By investing in Waymap, we can help them in their mission to foster greater accessibility, independent mobility and more efficient travel for everyone."

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