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About
Sesame Enable is an accessibility-focused software suite that empowers people living with paralysis to operate their digital devices entirely through subtle head movements — no extra hardware needed. Originally developed by a team co-founded by a quadriplegic engineer, the platform addresses the digital gap faced by millions of individuals with conditions such as ALS, Spinal Cord Injuries, and Multiple Sclerosis. The suite includes three core products: **Open Sesame for Android**, which delivers full head control for smartphones and tablets running Android; **Open Sesame for Windows**, offering the same hands-free experience on PCs and laptops; and the **Sesame Talking Keyboard**, a specialized communication app that lets non-verbal users type messages using only head movements. All solutions rely on computer-vision-based head tracking, using the device's existing camera to interpret movement and translate it into precise on-screen actions — enabling users to navigate any app without touch. After the company ceased operations in late 2019, the founders committed to keeping all software permanently free to ensure continued access for the community. Sesame Enable is ideal for assistive technology users, caregivers, occupational therapists, and rehabilitation specialists looking for zero-cost, hardware-free solutions to improve device accessibility for individuals with limited or no hand mobility.
Key Features
- Camera-Based Head Tracking: Uses the device's built-in camera and computer vision to detect subtle head movements and translate them into precise on-screen controls — no extra hardware needed.
- Open Sesame for Android: Full head-control access for Android smartphones and tablets, letting users navigate and operate any installed app through head movements alone.
- Open Sesame for Windows: Brings the same hands-free head control experience to Windows PCs and laptops, enabling full desktop access without a mouse or keyboard.
- Sesame Talking Keyboard: A specialized communication app for non-verbal users who cannot use their hands, enabling message typing entirely through head gestures.
- Completely Free Access: All Sesame Enable products are available at no cost, ensuring that people with disabilities are not priced out of essential accessibility tools.
Use Cases
- A person with ALS using Open Sesame to independently browse the web, send messages, and access apps on their Android smartphone using only head movements.
- An individual with a spinal cord injury operating a Windows PC for work or entertainment entirely hands-free through head gesture tracking.
- A non-verbal individual with paralysis using the Sesame Talking Keyboard to compose and send messages by moving their head to select letters.
- An occupational therapist recommending Sesame Enable to patients with MS as a cost-free assistive technology solution for daily device use.
- A caregiver setting up Open Sesame on a family member's tablet to restore their independence in accessing digital content and communication tools.
Pros
- Zero Cost: The entire suite is permanently free, removing financial barriers for individuals and caregivers seeking assistive technology solutions.
- No Additional Hardware Required: Works entirely with the device's existing camera, making setup simple and eliminating the need for expensive external peripherals.
- Broad Condition Support: Designed for a wide range of paralysis-causing conditions including ALS, Spinal Cord Injuries, and Multiple Sclerosis, making it broadly applicable.
- Works with Any App: Head control functions at the OS level, meaning it can operate virtually any app on supported platforms without requiring special integration.
Cons
- Company No Longer Active: Sesame Enable shut down in late 2019, meaning there is no ongoing development, official support team, or future updates to the software.
- Limited Platform Coverage: Only Android and Windows are supported; iOS and macOS users are not catered to, limiting the tool's reach.
- Community-Only Support: Official support is no longer available; users must rely on a Facebook community group for help, which may not be sufficient for complex issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What devices does Sesame Enable support?
Sesame Enable supports Android smartphones and tablets (via Open Sesame for Android) and Windows PCs and laptops (via Open Sesame for Windows). iOS and macOS are not currently supported.
Do I need to buy any special hardware to use Sesame Enable?
No. All Sesame Enable products work using only your device's built-in camera. No external sensors, controllers, or accessories are required.
Is Sesame Enable really free?
Yes. After the company shut down in late 2019, the founders chose to make all products permanently free so that the community could continue benefiting from the technology.
Who is Sesame Enable designed for?
It is designed for people living with conditions that cause paralysis or severely limit hand mobility, including ALS, Spinal Cord Injuries, Multiple Sclerosis, and similar conditions.
Where can I get support if I have trouble using the software?
Since the company is no longer active, the best place to get support is the Sesame Users Group on Facebook, where community members can help troubleshoot issues.
