What Is TTY Mode?
Cell phones allow us to communicate via wireless networks with others. Even those who are deaf or hard-of-hearing can use cell phones to communicate, thanks to a technology known as TTY, or teletypewriter mode.
Other People Are Reading
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Function
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TTY mode allows deaf people to communicate with family, friends, businesses and emergency services with the help of a TTY-compatible phone and a compatible device. As the deaf caller types text, the text is converted to audio for the person on the other line. The recipient then responds and their audio is converted to text for the deaf caller.
Features
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To use TTY mode, the phone you wish to use must be TTY-compatible and have a 2.5mm audio or headphone jack so an appropriate device, such as Ultratec's Compact/C, can work on your phone.
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Geography
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TTY mode is available on a variety of service carriers across the nation, though service capabilities may vary by location.
Benefits
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TTY mode is a lifesaver for those who can't afford or don't have access to the Internet, since the technology allows deaf people to communicate with loved ones and make emergency phone calls, according to the National Association of the Deaf.
Expert Insight
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Most cell phones are TTY-compatible, but to be sure, check with the carrier of the phone or read the product box and look for the universal TTY icon.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Milica Sekulic
