About
Sorenson AI Sign Language is a cutting-edge research and product initiative from Sorenson Communications, a leader in accessible communication services for the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community. Leveraging decades of experience in Video Relay Service (VRS), captioning, and live interpretation, Sorenson is applying AI and computer vision to automate sign language translation at scale. The platform is designed to recognize and translate American Sign Language (ASL) gestures captured via video into spoken or written language — and vice versa — reducing friction in everyday communication. This technology complements Sorenson's existing suite of products including their VRS mobile and desktop apps, CaptionCall home and mobile solutions, and enterprise-grade interpretation services. Targeted use cases span education, healthcare, financial services, manufacturing, media, and public sector environments where accessibility compliance and inclusive communication are critical. Enterprise customers can integrate the solution alongside on-demand or scheduled video remote interpreting and speech translation/captioning tools. For consumers, Sorenson already provides no-cost ASL interpreting for phone calls through government-supported VRS programs, and no-cost captioning for those who struggle to hear phone conversations. The AI sign language translation initiative represents the next evolution — reducing reliance on live interpreters through intelligent automation while maintaining the high accuracy the Deaf community requires. Sorenson's AI Sign Language technology is positioned to benefit content creators, accessibility officers, healthcare providers, and educational institutions seeking scalable, compliant, and inclusive communication infrastructure.
Key Features
- AI-Powered ASL Translation: Uses computer vision and machine learning to recognize and translate American Sign Language gestures from video in real time.
- Video Relay Service (VRS) Integration: Seamlessly integrates with Sorenson's established VRS ecosystem, including mobile, desktop, and Zoom-connected interpreter services.
- Enterprise Accessibility Solutions: Provides scalable sign language and captioning tools for industries including healthcare, education, financial services, and public sector.
- CaptionCall & Speech-to-Text Support: Offers captioned phone calls for those with hearing loss, available on home phones and mobile devices at no cost through government programs.
- Multi-Platform Availability: Accessible via mobile apps (iOS and Android), desktop applications, and integrations with platforms like Zoom for flexible usage.
Use Cases
- Enabling real-time ASL interpretation for Deaf individuals making or receiving phone calls through Video Relay Service.
- Providing captioned phone calls for seniors or hard-of-hearing individuals using CaptionCall on home or mobile devices.
- Helping enterprise organizations in healthcare and education meet accessibility compliance requirements with AI-assisted sign language services.
- Supporting media and events companies with on-site or remote sign language interpreting for conferences and broadcasts.
- Empowering Veterans and military service members with hearing loss through specialized captioning and communication support via the Sound Off Project.
Pros
- Backed by Industry Leader: Developed by Sorenson Communications, a trusted name with decades of experience serving the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community.
- No-Cost Consumer Access: VRS interpreting and CaptionCall services are available at no cost to eligible users through government-supported accessibility programs.
- Broad Enterprise Integration: Designed to serve diverse industries with compliance needs, offering on-site, remote, and automated interpreting solutions.
- Multi-Platform Support: Available across web, mobile, desktop, and Zoom, making it flexible for both personal and professional use.
Cons
- AI Translation Still in Development: The AI sign language translation initiative is not yet a fully released product, meaning full automation capabilities may not yet be available.
- Primarily ASL-Focused: Current offerings are centered on American Sign Language, which may limit accessibility for users of other sign languages globally.
- Enterprise Pricing Unclear: Pricing details for enterprise-tier AI translation and interpretation services are not publicly disclosed, requiring direct contact with Sorenson.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sorenson AI Sign Language Translation?
It is an AI-driven initiative by Sorenson Communications to develop automated sign language translation technology, enabling more accessible and scalable communication between Deaf ASL users and hearing individuals.
Is Sorenson's sign language service free to use?
Yes, Sorenson's Video Relay Service (VRS) for Deaf ASL users and CaptionCall for those with hearing loss are available at no cost through government-supported accessibility programs.
What platforms does Sorenson support?
Sorenson offers mobile apps for iOS and Android, a desktop application, Zoom integration via VRS, and home phone devices like the Lumina VP and CaptionCall home phone.
Who is the target audience for Sorenson's enterprise solutions?
Enterprise solutions target industries such as education, healthcare, financial services, manufacturing, media and events, professional services, and the public sector that require accessible communication infrastructure.
How does Sorenson's AI compare to live human interpreters?
Sorenson currently combines live professional interpreters with emerging AI tools. The AI translation initiative aims to augment — not replace — human interpreters, improving speed and scalability over time.
