What is Video Relay Service?

Video Relay Service (VRS) enables individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing to communicate using American Sign Language (ASL) and signed and oral transliteration with people who use regular telephones.

Using a web-cam and a high-speed or broadband Internet connection, you can connect via the Myrelay.com website to a Video Interpreter (VI) who will call the number you provide. You then sign into your web-cam or other video equipment, the VI sees you signing and translates the message into speech for the person at the other end of the line.  When the called party – the hearing person – replies, the VI translates their words into ASL or signed or oral transliteration for you (the caller).

There are many advantages to using VRS. The most important advantages are greater speed and improved communication with the use of facial expression and body language gestures. VRS is also helpful for people who cannot type on a TTY easily, such as children who use ASL or signed or oral transliteration.