"Hearo": An AI Innovation for the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing by CMKL University Alumni

On June 26, 2026, Hearo, an AI-powered real-time safety alert initiative for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing individuals, hosted "Meet Your Hearo: Advancing Safety Through Innovation" at the American Hub, U.S. Embassy Bangkok. Organized with support from various sectors, including the Thailand, United States Alumni Association (TUSAA), the event provided an opportunity for community members and experts to test the platform and share insights for its future development.

Behind this innovation is the collaboration between two CMKL University alumni: Putsawan Tipsakorn (Founder & Project Lead) and Krittin Kamolpornwijit (Co-Founder & Technical Lead). Hearo's impact is further highlighted by its recognition as the 3rd Place Winner in the Microsoft ASEAN Hackathon: AI for Accessibility 2025.

In daily life, most emergency cues like fire alarms or sirens rely heavily on audio, leaving the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing community vulnerable. Hearo addresses this critical safety gap by utilizing real-time AI sound recognition technology to convert these hazardous sounds into instant, accessible alerts.

Krittin, the project's Technical Lead, shared his perspective on developing this innovation: "The hardest part of Hearo was never the AI. It was making sure the technology truly serves the people it's built for. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who showed up and shared their lived experiences with us. That is how we reach a future where no Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing person misses the crucial sounds that keep them safe."

The success of the Hearo project is a tangible reflection of CMKL University's mission as the 1st AI-focused university in Thailand. Driving the future of education, CMKL offers a hands-on curriculum that empowers students to apply advanced technology to real-world challenges, collaborate closely with communities, and create human-centered innovations that deliver real-world impact.

For those interested in enhancing their skills and studying artificial intelligence as well as advanced computer technology to expand their opportunities and create innovations for the future, CMKL University is now accepting applications for various educational programs. Explore further details today at www.cmkl.ac.th