Video Relay Service
Sign language interpreting through video calls
Overview
VRS lets Deaf signers call anyone: they sign to an interpreter on video, the interpreter voices to the hearing party, relaying replies back in sign. Funded by telecom funds in many countries, free for users. Apps like FaceTime enable direct sign to sign calls. VRS transformed Deaf employment and autonomy, no more faxing or relying on relatives. Speed and nuance of sign interpreting beats text relay for complex calls. Video remote interpreting serves hospitals and offices on demand.
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