VBB easy app for barrier-free public transport use published

Hannover, June 15th, 2023. On the occasion of the Special Olympics World Games 2023 in Berlin, Verkehrsverbund Berlin-Brandenburg is releasing the "VBB easy" app, an accessible routing app for people with cognitive impairments or mobility limitations and anyone who prefers a particularly simple app for planning routes by bus and train. With easy language and a highly intuitive user interface, the app allows users to search for timetable information for buses and trains, taking barrier-free routes into account, and to save up to seven destinations as favorites for faster navigation. During the journey, "VBB easy" accompanies passengers with illustrated navigation and step-by-step information. In case of an emergency or if assistance is otherwise needed, stored help contacts can be called directly out of the app. Video calls are also possible in conjunction with the "VBB GuideMeGo" app, which has also been newly released. The person helping also receives the passenger's current location and the battery status of his or her smartphone via message.

For the Special Olympics World Games 2023, "VBB easy" can even be used to navigate by searching for types of sport and event locations, so that the simplest of information can be used to get you safely to your desired destination. The app's language can be set to German or English.

Ute Bonde, Managing Director of Verkehrsverbund Berlin-Brandenburg (VBB):
"Accessibility and inclusion has always been anchored in the DNA of VBB. With our Bus&Bahn companion service, we have been setting standards for mobile-impaired people in public transportation for years. With the two newly developed apps, especially "VBB GuideMeGo", we are reaching the next level in accessibility. Mobility is a basic right and a service of general interest. We not only take this seriously, VBB lives it. We are proud to be part of the Special Olympics and to make it a little easier for the athletes to get around Berlin through our developments. My special thanks go to the responsible senate administrations of the state of Berlin and our technical service partners."

"VBB easy" and "VBB GuideMeGo" are intended as inclusive offerings for everyone. In particular, different user groups for whom simple app operation and information presentation is especially relevant are to be addressed. In accordance with the requirement of the sustainability program INKLUSION '23 of the state of Berlin, they were designed and realized for sustainable use beyond the games.