SPIE improves accessibility by implementing a Smart City solution for pedestrian traffic signals in the Canton of Geneva
Bern, 16 July 2026 – SPIE, the independent European leader in multi-technical services in the areas of energy and communications, completed the development of an innovative system of Accessible Pedestrian Signals (“APS”) designed for people with visual impairments. The solution was developed on behalf of Geneva’s Association pour le bien des Aveugles et Malvoyants de Genève (“ABA” – Association for the Benefit of the Blind and Visually Impaired in Geneva), in close partnership with the Canton of Geneva.
- SPIE, in collaboration with local partners, has developed a new system of audible pedestrian signals that is specifically tailored to the needs of people with visual impairments.
- The acoustic signal is only activated upon request by people with visual impairments, using either a remote control or a smartphone app. This system contributes to reducing urban noise levels.
- After an intensive development phase, implementation began in 2025 with an initial order for 80 units.
The new technology takes into account key requirements for accessibility and urban quality of life: the audible signal is no longer automatically activated during every green light phase, but only upon request,
either via remote control or the MyMovEO app. This feature significantly reduces noise in the city, particularly at night, which also helps to curb vandalism.
Sébastien Haffner, manager of the Geneva Smart City branch at SPIE MTS, explains: “Integrating this new system into existing infrastructure proved a technical challenge, since we had to repurpose hardware and software components while preserving the original design. The upper section of the traffic signal housing remained unchanged, while the lower section was adapted to accommodate the new audible technology.”
The development of the prototype began in 2020. In March 2025, the first order was received, marking the official transition of the project to the operational phase. An initial series of 80 units is currently being installed in the Canton of Geneva. SPIE MTS managed the entire project, from conception and technical coordination with suppliers to on-site implementation.
SPIE MTS is a business unit of SPIE Germany Switzerland Austria, specialising in intelligent solutions for urban environments. Together with local partners, SPIE MTS implements innovative projects to improve quality of life in cities, with a focus on inclusion, sustainability, and technical excellence.