What is CapTel and how does it work?

CapTel, short for Captioned Telephone, is a communication service designed to assist individuals with hearing loss in making and receiving phone calls. It provides real-time text captions of the spoken conversation, allowing users to read what the other caller is saying while still being able to listen to the audio. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who may have difficulty hearing clearly or processing speech. When a CapTel user places a call, the voice of the person on the other end is transcribed by a captioning service. This transcription is then displayed on the CapTel phone screen, enabling the user to follow along with the conversation visually. The process works through a relay service, where the spoken words are captured, converted to text, and then sent back to the CapTel device almost instantaneously. CapTel devices come with features such as adjustable text size and background color, making it easier for users to read the captions according to their individual preferences. The service is available for both landline and mobile devices, ensuring accessibility for various communication needs. Users can find detailed information about the products and features on the CapTel website.