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What is BSL?

Technology and Sign Language

Discover the tools, apps, and emerging technologies that support communication for Deaf and hard-of-hearing people.

Communication

What technologies do Deaf and hard-of-hearing people use? There are many tools to support Deaf and hard-of-hearing people, including: •Hearing aids and cochlear implants •Subtitles and captions on TV and videos •Video relay services for BSL interpretation •Vibrating alarms and doorbells •Speech-to-text apps and text messaging These technologies help make communication and daily life more accessible.

How does a hearing aid work? Hearing aids are small electronic devices that help people with hearing loss hear more clearly. They work by capturing sound through a microphone, amplifying the sound, and delivering it into the ear through a tiny speaker. Modern hearing aids can be adjusted to amplify only the frequencies someone struggles with most, making conversations, music, and everyday sounds easier to hear and understand. They come in different styles, including those worn behind the ear and inside the ear.

How does a cochlear implant work? A cochlear implant is a medical device designed for people with severe to profound hearing loss who do not benefit from hearing aids. It bypasses the damaged parts of the inner ear and sends sound signals directly to the hearing nerve. The implant has two main parts: an external sound processor that sits behind the ear and a surgically placed internal implant. The processor captures sounds and sends them to the implant, which stimulates the auditory nerve, allowing the brain to interpret the sounds.

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Can technology translate spoken English into BSL? Some projects are developing translation tools, but automatic English-to-BSL translation is still in its early stages. Unlike spoken English, BSL has its own grammar and structure, making direct translation complex. Human interpreters are still the most reliable option.

How is sign language used in video calls and online communication? Video calls are popular among BSL users because they allow real-time signing. Platforms like Zoom and FaceTime make visual communication much easier. Interpreters can also join video meetings to support access.

Do smartphones and apps support BSL users? Yes—there are apps to learn BSL, fingerspelling tools, video relay services, and communication apps with subtitles or voice recognition. Smartphones also allow video messages and video calls, which are especially useful for sign language users.

Are there any AI tools being developed for sign language translation? Yes. Researchers are working on AI that can recognise and translate sign language using cameras and avatars. While promising, these tools are still being tested and are not yet fully accurate or widely available.

Signposts to further information:

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