Assistive Technology for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

There is a wide variety of technology specifically created for people who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Deaf-Blind and Speech-Impaired.
The Division of Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DSDHH) does not endorse any products or companies listed below.

Technology Description Providers
Alerting Systems These systems can alert people who are deaf or hard of hearing by using lights, high-frequency sounds and vibrating notifications that work by way of traditional alarms. Alerting systems can be used for alarm clocks, doorbells, door knocks, phone calls, baby monitors, weather alerts, motion detectors, smoke alarms, and a wide range of other traditional alerting technologies.

Safe Awake

FEMA

The National Weather Service

Instant Messaging (IM) Instant Messaging is a form of real-time communication between two or more people based on typed text. The text is conveyed via computers or wireless device connected over a network such as the Internet.

AIM

Hangouts

Skype Messenger

Internet Captioned Telephone Service Make and receive phone calls using a telephone that displays real-time captions of phone conversations visible on your computer’s Internet browser or on a screen embedded on the base of your telephone.

Hamilton

Mobile CapTel

Internet Relay (IP Relay) A telephone relay service that links your telephone with a specialized program for personal computers, laptops, mobile phones, or other devices capable of utilizing an IP Relay provider.

 

Sprint IP Relay

Telephone Relay Service (TRS) Allows people who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Deaf-Blind or Speech-Impaired to place calls to standard telephone users via a keyboard or assistive device. Relay NC
Video Chat (Videophone Chatting) Interact in real time using audio and video technology by using a computer, tablet or wireless device.

Hangouts

Skype

Tango

Video Relay Service (VRS) Allows non-signing individuals to communicate with people whose primary language is American Sign Language (ASL). You can use video conferencing equipment and sign language interpreters, or you can use your mobile device.

Purple

ZVRS

Purple VRS

ntouch

Accessibility for Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Deaf-Blind and Speech-Impaired Individuals

Accessibility Apps Description Price
Google Hangouts Video chat with up to nine friends using mobile Hangouts. FREE
Hamilton Mobile CapTel Similar to captions on television, this app makes it possible for you to see exactly what is being said to you on every call. FREE
PurpleMail A video-based message system for deaf and hard of hearing customers that lets you access your PurpleMail video messages. FREE
Red Cross Mobile Apps An app that prepares you for Red Cross emergencies including tornadoes, hurricanes, wildfires, earthquakes, shelter finders and first aid. FREE
SubtitleDroid A simple but effective way to search and download subtitles for movies and TV shows. FREE