A visually impaired passenger tests a robotic smart guide dog at the Huangmugang Transportation Hub of the Shenzhen Metro, on December 13, 2025. Photo: Xinhua

 
Shenzhen Metro on Saturday launched an experimental AI-powered robotic "guide dog" for visually impaired passengers, the first of its kind in the global rail transit industry, domestic media outlets reported.
 
The smart robotic guide dog, nicknamed Xiaosuan (literally "Little Garlic"), began trial operations at the Huangmugang transportation hub in Futian district in Shenzhen, South China's Guangdong Province, providing a new technology-based mobility aid to help blind and low-vision passengers navigate metro stations, according to chinanews.com.
 
This service is the first of its kind in the global rail transit industry, underscoring the role of AI in support of people with disabilities. Shenzhen Metro said that Xiaosuan integrates a range of AI inovations, including multi-modal 3D-voxel neural network composite sensing, indoor and outdoor integrated planning and control systems, and large visual language models.
 
It is capable of supporting core functions such as autonomous route planning, precise navigation, intelligent obstacle avoidance, tactile paving tracking, voice interaction and visual recognition. According to the operator, passengers can issue voice commands and the device will guide them to designated service points. After use, a voice command will automatically return the device to its docking position, according to media reports.
 
The smart device was launched on Saturday at an accessible elevator area near exits 13 and 14 at the Huangmugang transportation hub, said Liu Xuelian, a staff member of Shenzhen Metro. At present, safety-specific tests and on-site inspections have been completed and passed. During the first month of trial operation, dedicated staff will accompany visually impaired passengers to ensure safety; if the pilot proves successful the system will be expanded to other stations, Liu said. 
 
This project aims to support the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities, using technology to empower urban rail transit, said the operator.
 
"It's like my eyes — wherever I want to go, it takes me there," said one visually impaired passenger after trying the device. Another participant surnamed Mo, added: "The electronic guide dog is more focused and doesn't get distracted. I feel more confident while walking," Nanfang Plus quoted Mo as saying.
 
Meanwhile, during the 2025 National Paralympic Games, Shenzhen Metro upgraded its barrier-free services across the entire chain at comprehensive transportation hubs with high passenger flow, according to Liu. Shenzhen Metro noted that all 485 stations in the city now offer full coverage of barrier-free facilities.
 
 
Global Times