Braze Mobility

Braze Mobility Inc. is a Toronto, Ontario-based mobility technology company that develops blind spot sensor systems which can be attached to any manual or powered wheelchair, converting it into what the company calls a "smart" wheelchair. The systems automatically detect obstacles and convey their location and proximity to the driver through multi-modal alerts: LED light displays, audio tones, and optional vibration modules. The company states its sensors are the world's first patented blind spot sensors for wheelchairs and emphasizes that the driver remains fully in control, as the devices do not steer or stop the chair.

The product line includes the Braze Sentina (model AS-0033), a single unit providing 180 degrees of horizontal and 50 degrees of vertical rear-view coverage, expandable with up to three Braze Echo Heads (45 degrees each) and up to three vibration modules; and the Braze Hydra, a control box supporting up to seven Echo Heads placed anywhere on the chair. Both offer short- and long-range modes with customizable distance thresholds, configurable at installation or via a Bluetooth-enabled app, and are powered by a standard USB power bank or a chair-mounted USB port rather than the wheelchair battery. Mounting uses GoPro-style mounts, straps, and clamps. The company notes the systems are ultrasonic/proximity-based rather than camera-based, and do not detect drop-offs, curbs, soft materials, or objects outside sensor coverage. In March 2026 the company announced U.S. commercial availability of BrazeCam, a backup camera designed for wheelchair users.

Target users include people with low vision, blindness or neglect, limited upper-body or neck mobility, impaired attention, users of alternative drive controls, those who drive in a tilted position, and those whose view is blocked by accessories such as backpacks, oxygen tanks, or communication devices. Applications cited include navigating tight spaces, doorways and elevators, ramps, crowded areas, and public transport.

Founding story

The founders' interest in accessible technology began after visiting a long-term care facility where residents with physical impairments were denied powered mobility devices on safety grounds, which the founders regarded as a violation of a fundamental human right. The company was founded in 2016 after more than a decade of research into smart wheelchairs aimed at making wheelchairs safer and increasing user independence.

Business model

Braze Mobility sells hardware systems and accessories (sensor units, Echo Heads, vibration modules, power banks sold separately) to individual wheelchair users, clinics and institutions, and through distributors and wheelchair manufacturers. It offers trial and demo options and quote requests, and supports installation directly in the Toronto area or via distributor partners.

Product sales of blind spot sensor systems and add-on modules, purchased directly, through distribution partners, or funded by payers and programs including U.S. Veterans Affairs, the U.S. Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, March of Dimes Canada, and Medavie Blue Cross.

Traction

Products have been funded by U.S. Veterans Affairs and the U.S. Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, and in Canada by March of Dimes Canada, with the company on the Veterans Affairs Canada vendor list and registered with Medavie Blue Cross. The company is a SAM-approved vendor able to sell directly to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and has been featured in the VA's AT National Newsletter. A Central Arkansas VA program involving 20 units made it the flagship among seven Veterans Health Administration sites, and national distribution agreements are in place with Numotion, U.S. Rehab and Sunrise Medical Canada. The company notes the device is too new to appear on pre-approved funding lists and that it is working toward broader funding coverage.

Latest developments

On March 16, 2026, Braze Mobility announced U.S. commercial availability of BrazeCam, a backup camera designed specifically for wheelchair users, addressing limited rear awareness; the system is available to order across the United States.