My D/deaf friends and I experience a recurring problem: the high prices attached to products tailored for deaf individuals. Additionally, deaf products often seem trapped in a time capsule, aesthetically reminiscent of the 1970/80s. Many suppliers overlook the fact that individuals with disabilities deserve more than just functional tools; they deserve access to technology which not only creates equitable access but aesthetically enhances their daily lives. It is time that we begin to prioritise providing people with disabilities with products/services that acknowledge and celebrate their identities and diversity, addressing specific needs whilst creating products inclusive for all.

JANUS was born out of this necessity. Current Smart Assistants (SA) on the market rely heavily rely on spoken language and audiological input meaning they are inaccessible for many D/deaf people. The JANUS Home Unit retains the features from a conventional SA whilst placing importance on visual interactions through strategic lighting notifications, accommodating diverse inputs such as sign language and facilitating detailed transcription through its integrated screen. The compact satellite unit, designed with portability in mind, functions similarly to its larger counterpart. JANUS can be conveniently moved around the home. A dedicated app offers real-time notifications, transcriptions, and updates to keep users informed.