Easy Walk consists of a two-buttoned mobile phone, a Bluetooth Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver, software that converts text to speech and a call centre, the BBC reports.

The first button on the phone connects to the GPS system to inform the user of their precise location - including house or building number - while the second requests assistance from the call centre, which then phones the user to help them navigate their way.

Manned by operators, the personnel at the call centre provide step-by-step guidance while on the phone, using digital maps which could potentially provide assistance throughout Europe.

After trials in Italy, responses have included that of Federico Borgna, a tester from the Italian Blind Union.

"Easy Walk helps me to go where I don't know the way," he said. "It gives me more confidence because I usually walk by myself."GPS works via a number of satellites positioned above the earth which transmit information to a designated receiver.

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