About
InnoCaption is an FCC-certified, no-cost mobile application that empowers the deaf and hard of hearing community to make and receive phone calls with confidence through real-time captioning technology. Available on both iOS and Android, InnoCaption offers two distinct caption modes: highly accurate automated speech recognition powered by AI, and live stenographers available around the clock for calls that demand the highest level of precision. A standout feature is the patented One Number System, which allows users to keep their existing phone number by setting up call forwarding — no need to change contacts or share a new number. Users can also enable two-sided captions to see transcriptions of their own speech alongside the other party's, and can switch modes at any time, even mid-call. The app stores past call transcripts for easy review, sharing, or export, ensuring no important details are ever missed. Captioned voicemail is also supported, with automated preview transcripts and the option to have messages re-captioned by live stenographers. Funded through the FCC's Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS) program, InnoCaption is offered entirely free to individuals with hearing loss. It serves a broad audience including everyday consumers, veterans, workplace users, correctional facilities, and healthcare settings, with dedicated support resources for audiologists and employers. InnoCaption is an award-winning service recognized for breaking down telecommunications barriers.
Key Features
- Dual Caption Modes: Switch between AI-powered automated speech recognition and live human stenographers before or during any call, depending on accuracy needs.
- One Number System: Patented technology links your existing phone number to InnoCaption via call forwarding, so you never need to share a new number.
- Two-Sided Captions: Optionally display captions of both parties in the conversation — including your own speech — for full call transparency.
- Call Transcript History: Review, save, or email transcripts of past calls directly from the app so no important details are ever lost.
- Captioned Voicemail: Automatically transcribed voicemail previews with the option to request re-captioning by a live stenographer for greater accuracy.
Use Cases
- Deaf or hard of hearing individuals making and receiving personal phone calls with real-time caption support.
- Employees with hearing loss participating in business phone calls using captioned business phone solutions.
- Veterans accessing accessible telecommunications services through FCC-funded captioning technology.
- Healthcare patients or clients with hearing difficulties communicating confidently with medical providers over the phone.
- Organizations and correctional facilities providing accessible phone communication for residents or inmates with hearing loss.
Pros
- Completely Free to Users: Funded by the FCC's TRS program, InnoCaption is available at no cost to individuals with hearing loss — no subscription or hidden fees.
- Human + AI Flexibility: The ability to toggle between automated AI captions and professional live stenographers gives users unmatched accuracy and control.
- No Number Change Required: The One Number System lets users keep their existing phone number, making adoption seamless and invisible to contacts.
- 24/7 Stenographer Availability: Live captioners are available around the clock, ensuring high-quality captioning whenever it is needed, day or night.
Cons
- Limited to Mobile Platforms: InnoCaption is currently only available as an iOS and Android app, with no desktop or web-based captioning option.
- Requires Internet Connection: Both automated and live captioning modes depend on a stable internet connection, which may be a limitation in low-connectivity areas.
- U.S.-Focused Eligibility: The free FCC-funded service is primarily available to U.S. residents with documented hearing loss, limiting accessibility for international users.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is InnoCaption really free?
Yes. InnoCaption is offered at no cost to individuals with hearing loss because it is funded through the FCC's Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS) program.
Do I need to change my phone number to use InnoCaption?
No. InnoCaption's patented One Number System uses call forwarding so your existing phone number continues to work as normal, with captions added seamlessly.
What is the difference between automated captioning and live stenographers?
Automated captioning uses AI-powered speech recognition for fast, real-time results. Live stenographers are highly trained professionals who provide captions manually with greater accuracy and contextual understanding, available 24/7.
Can I see what I say during a call, not just what the other person says?
Yes. InnoCaption supports two-sided captions, allowing you to display transcriptions of both parties in the conversation. You can toggle this on or off at any time, even mid-call.
Is InnoCaption available for business use?
Yes. InnoCaption offers workplace solutions, including business phone captioning, and provides resources for audiologists, veterans, correctional facilities, and enterprise environments.
