New Generation of Electronic Audible Traffic Signals HKSB Assists in Distributing Wireless Control

The Transport Department will gradually replace approximately 13,000 electronic audible traffic signals (eATS) across Hong Kong, starting in April 2025, with completion expected by the end of 2027. All eATS will be replaced. In addition to retaining the existing functions, the new generation eATS will include the following five new features:

(i)  Light Illumination Unit - A light illumination unit is installed at the top of the new eATS, making it easier for low vision persons to locate the pedestrian crossing;

(ii) Tactile Map - A tactile map is provided on the side of the eATS, providing layout information of the vicinity of the pedestrian crossing to the visually impaired persons (VIP) ;

     
(iii) Voice Message of Crossing Location - The new eATS has a voice message reading function. By pressing the activation button located at the bottom, the device will read out the names of nearby streets in Cantonese, Mandarin and English to inform users of their location;

     
(iv) Touchless Pedestrian Push Button - A touchless pedestrian push button sensor is provided below the light illumination unit on the front of the new eATS, allowing pedestrians to activate the button without contact, reducing hygiene concerns of users; and

     
(v) Flexible Volume Adjustment - The device features a new nighttime operation mode. When there is no VIP seeking to cross the road at night, the operating volume of the eATS will be lower than the existing level, thus reducing impact on nearby residences. VIP can use a newly designed dedicated wireless device or mobile application to temporarily increase the volume of the eATS when they need to cross the road, ensuring their safe crossing.

In July 2025, The Hong Kong Society for the Blind took the lead in coordinating, together with seven other organizations and service centres for the visually impaired, the free distribution of approximately 15,000 new generation electronic pedestrian crossing wireless devices for use by visually impaired. The distributing organizations and service centres include Hong Kong Blind Union, Hong Kong Federation of The Blind, Shek Kip Mei Lutheran Centre for the Blind, Retina Hong Kong, Ebenezer School & Home for the Visually Impaired, Ebenezer New Hope School and Rehabilitation Alliance Hong Kong. The wireless devices are not for sale and forbidden from resale for profit. Each visually impaired person would be given only one wireless device and duplicate requests are not allowed.