Enhancing Communication with Real-Time Text (RTT): Why and How It Should Be Embraced 

In today’s interconnected world, effective communication is vital for everyone, including those who are Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing. Real-Time Text (RTT) is a powerful tool that not only empowers these individuals but also revolutionizes their ability to make telephone calls independently. RTT enables the use if text in a phone call, transmitting characters in real-time as they are typed, providing a seamless and secure means of communication.  

The importance of RTT lies in its ability to transmit text character by character, allowing the receiver to see what the sender is typing as they type. This feature is particularly valuable during emergency situations, where stress and urgency can amplify the importance of timely communication. Using standardized RTT is crucial, ensuring that a single application can handle all types of calls, especially critical emergency calls. Standardization would transcend geographical boundaries and address such as roaming, making text calls to the Emergency Services available for Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing people even when traveling abroad. A capability that is currently unavailable.  

Today, the ability to communicate through mobile devices is fundamental for participation and engagement for all individuals. Ensuring that RTT becomes a standard for Emergency Services is a necessary step towards meaningful accessibility and meeting the needs of individuals with disabilities. It represents an essential stride towards achieving equality in society where unrestricted communication is a human right.  

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