Opening Doors for the Deaf Through New Technology
Much of the new technology coming out to help the deaf interact with the world around them is focusing on using mobile devices, such as cell phones. Since practically everyone nowadays has a cell phone, it is an excellent tool to incorporate aids for the deaf. Another plus of using cell phones to implement new technology is the fact that they are much more affordable than utilizing other technological advances, such as cochlear implants. Check out the latest in cell phone technology for the deaf.
Researchers at MIT are developing software to allow cell phones to be used as a tactile device to help the deaf pick up on vibrations of the sounds around them. If you have any type of smart phone, you already have the basic requirements that this technology would need, including a microphone, rudimentary vibration system, and digital signal-processing capability. Being able to feel the vibrations caused by sound waves can help users pick up on the nuances of language that basic lip reading does not allow.
Another exciting advancement in technology is being developed by engineers at the University of Washington. They are creating what is being called MobileASL, which will have the capability of being used with any phone over 3G that has video camera capabilities. In some cases it will even be usable in conjunction with Apple’s FaceTime technology.
These are just the two most recent advances in technology. Always be sure to read news articles and blogs (like this one) to keep abreast of what is going on in world of technology for the deaf so that you will know all the options available to you.
