Technology

Explore how modern technology supports sign language users, from video relay services and captioning apps to hearing aids and visual communication tools. Find practical guides to the latest devices and platforms designed to enhance accessibility.

Finger Spelling Machines
How finger spelling machines translate typed words into sign language videos to help people learn and communicate.
Loop Systems
Induction loop systems transmit amplified sound directly to hearing aids, helping people with hearing loss enjoy TV, theatres, churches and more.
Mobile Phones
How mobile phones are transforming communication and independence for deaf and hard of hearing people.
Project Nim: Revolutionary Sign Language Film
Follow the true story of Nim, a chimp raised in the seventies to learn sign language and communicate like humans.
Signing Using Telecommunications
How technology like videophones and video relay services has changed the way deaf people use sign language to communicate.
Subtitles
Subtitles help deaf viewers follow TV, but they have limits compared to sign language and can miss emotional nuances in dialogue.
Telephone Systems
Deaf and hard of hearing people can use several telephone systems including text messages and Typetalk to communicate over distance.
The British Sign Language Broadcasting Trust
The British Sign Language Broadcasting Trust works to get more TV programmes subtitled in sign language for deaf viewers.
The Importance of Establishing Home Alerts For Deaf People
Deaf people need specialised home alert systems like strobe lights and vibrating receivers to detect fires and smoke safely.