About
The ASL App is a mobile-first language learning application created by Deaf people at DeafDigits Inc., purpose-built to make American Sign Language (ASL) education accessible, engaging, and practical. With a library of 2,500+ signs and phrases, users can learn conversational ASL at their own pace, whether they're beginners or looking to expand their vocabulary. The app is designed for real-world use — optimized for one-handed navigation so learners can practice on the go: at coffee shops, restaurants, on the metro, or with friends and family. Key features include slow-motion playback for detailed sign study, a scrub/pause control for replaying tricky moments, a favorites system to bookmark signs for later practice, and multiple Deaf signers to expose learners to natural variation in signing. The ASL App was created to replace fragmented and confusing online ASL resources with a single, intuitive, and culturally authentic experience. It celebrates Deaf culture and community, and received a Webby Awards nomination in 2021, recognized among the top 10% of internet products globally. DeafDigits also offers complementary apps including LSQ ITM App, ASL with Care Bears, and ASL Stickers with Nyle, expanding their ecosystem of signing and Deaf culture tools. Ideal for students, families with Deaf relatives, healthcare workers, educators, hospitality staff, and anyone wanting to connect more meaningfully with the Deaf community.
Key Features
- 2,500+ Signs & Phrases: Comprehensive library of conversational ASL signs and phrases covering everyday topics and real-world interactions.
- Slow-Motion & Scrub Playback: Watch signs in slow mode or tap and scrub through video to pause and replay difficult movements at your own pace.
- Multiple Deaf Signers: Learn from a variety of native Deaf signers to get exposure to natural variation and authentic signing styles.
- Favorites & Practice Mode: Save signs you want to practice or revisit, creating a personalized review list for focused learning.
- On-the-Go One-Handed Design: Optimized for mobile use with one-handed navigation so you can practice ASL in real social settings.
Use Cases
- A hearing person learning ASL to communicate with a Deaf family member or partner in everyday situations.
- Healthcare workers and first responders building a basic ASL vocabulary to serve Deaf patients more effectively.
- Students taking introductory ASL classes using the app as a portable reference and practice companion.
- Hospitality and service industry employees learning common phrases to better assist Deaf customers.
- Anyone curious about Deaf culture wanting to learn a few signs before attending a Deaf community event or gathering.
Pros
- Culturally Authentic: Created by Deaf people at DeafDigits Inc., ensuring signs and context are culturally accurate and respectful.
- Practical & Portable: One-handed interface designed for real-world use — learn at a café, on the metro, or with friends in any setting.
- Award-Recognized: Received a 2021 Webby Awards nomination, placing it in the top 10% of internet products globally.
- Expandable Ecosystem: Pairs with companion apps like LSQ ITM and ASL with Care Bears for a broader signing and Deaf culture experience.
Cons
- No AI-Powered Sign Recognition: The app is video-based and does not use computer vision to assess or correct the user's own signing in real time.
- Limited Structured Curriculum: Focused on vocabulary and conversational phrases rather than a step-by-step grammar or structured lesson plan.
- Pricing Transparency: Bundled pricing details are not clearly disclosed on the website, which may cause hesitation for new users.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who created The ASL App?
The ASL App was created by DeafDigits Inc., a company founded and led by Deaf people who wanted to provide an easy, accessible, and authentic way to learn American Sign Language.
How many signs does the app include?
The ASL App includes over 2,500 signs and phrases covering everyday conversational topics.
Is The ASL App suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the app is designed for learners at all levels. Its simple navigation, slow-motion playback, and bite-sized video lessons make it especially beginner-friendly.
On what platforms is The ASL App available?
The ASL App is available on iOS and Android mobile devices, and information can also be accessed via their website.
Does The ASL App offer other signing-related apps?
Yes, DeafDigits offers companion apps including the LSQ ITM App (for Quebec Sign Language), ASL with Care Bears, ASL Stickers with Nyle, and Reacthat! with Andrey.
