Mobile VRS

(Contributed by Joan B.)

About

Migrating from videophones, sign language users can now use their mobile devices such as laptops, tablets, and phones to make VRS calls. An article that was reprinted on the Sorenson VRS website^[4] states that “it is now possible to have access to Video Relay Services (VRS) no matter where you are.” This software is free and can be downloaded on supported devices under Apple, Android, and Windows^[2][3].

Inventor

ZVRS (partnered with Apple)^[1]

When

July 26, 2010 at the DeafNation World Expo^[1]

How it Works

If they haven’t, members of various VRS providers will need to download the providers’ mobile app or software, which currently includes Sorenson’s ntouch, Purple’s P3, ZVRS’s z5, and Convo to name a few. After downloading the app, the user will have to log in with his/her account information. Once logged in, the app will have a list of the user’s contact list, call history, and a dial pad. By clicking on or dialing a phone number, the user will be connected to the VRS provider’s communications assistant (CA) or interpreter. The rest works as one would expect using a regular videophone.

References

[1] Evans, Joel. “Mobile VRS a Reality with ZVRS and FaceTime.” ZDNet. The Mobile Gadgeteer, 19 July 2010. Web. 07 May 2017. <http://www.zdnet.com/article/mobile-vrs-a-reality-with-zvrs-and-facetime/>.

[2] “P3 Mobile.” P3 from Purple Communications – Solutions. Purple Communications, Inc, 2017. Web. 07 May 2017. <https://www.purplevrs.com/solutions>.

[3] Sorenson VRS. Sorenson Communications, LLC, 2017. Web. 07 May 2017. <http://www.sorensonvrs.com/>.

[4] “Video Relay Service: Now Available On-the-Go.” Sorenson – In the News. New Horizons, 2011. Web. 07 May 2017. <http://www.sorenson.com/vrs_new_available_on-the-go>.