FAQs
VRS is a no-cost, subscriber-based service for Deaf people with a qualifying hearing loss who use ASL and have videophones, smart phones, tablets, or computers that are set up for video communication.
What is Sorenson video phone? ›
Video Relay Service (VRS)
Sorenson gives you many interpreted video service options for improving conversations between Deaf and hearing people. You can choose from our beloved Lumina video phone, mobile apps for Android and iOS, apps for PC and Mac, and now, integrated interpreting within.
What does Sorenson Communications do? ›
We combine patented technology with human-centric services to connect signed and spoken languages: captioning and video relay services, over-video and in-person sign language and spoken language interpreting, real-time event captioning services, and post-production language services.
What is Sorenson's video? ›
Sorenson offers VRI services for any situation. Our on-demand video remote interpreting for retail, banking, and hospitality is specifically for in-person conversations between Deaf and hearing participants who need interpreter support.
What is the difference between VRI and VRS? ›
VRS does not allow for relay interpreting between two signed languages. VRI allows for the addition of CDI (Certified Deaf Interpreters). VRI allows the D/HoH individual to observe the provider's facial expressions and body language, not just the interpreter's “translation” of the provider's emotional content.
Who pays for VRS? ›
The VRS providers are reimbursed for their costs from the Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS) Fund. TRS Fund funds the Video Relay Service. The TRS Fund is funded through contributions by all providers of interstate telecommunications services.
What can VRS be used for? ›
Video Relay Service (VRS) allows persons with hearing or speech disabilities who use American Sign Language to use video equipment to communicate with voice telephone users.
Who owns Sorenson? ›
We are pleased to announce Ariel Alternatives is the new majority owner of Sorenson! This change brings an increase of opportunity and reach for us to continue fulfilling our mission of advancing human connection.
What does sorenson mean? ›
Sørensen (Danish pronunciation: [ˈsɶɐ̯ˀn̩sn̩]) is a Danish-Norwegian patronymic surname meaning "son of Søren" (given name equivalent of Severin). As of 2022, it is the eighth most common surname in Denmark.
Is it expensive for people to use VRS? ›
VRS calls are paid for by the TRS Fund established by the FCC and funded by other telecommunications users. Sorenson provides the videophones and related software at no cost to you. You are only responsible for the cost of internet service required to place and receive VRS calls.
Salt Lake City, April 4, 2022 – Sorenson (or “the Company”), the leading U.S. communications provider for people who are Deaf and hard-of-hearing, announced today that private investment firm Ariel Alternatives, LLC has completed an acquisition of 52.5% of the Company's common equity from existing shareholders, ...
How do VRS work? ›
A VRS call flows back and forth just like a telephone conversation between two hearing persons. For example, the parties can interrupt each other, which they cannot do with a TRS call using a TTY (where the parties have to take turns communicating with the CA).
What is a Sorenson video phone? ›
Sorenson Video Relay Service® (SVRS®) is a free, 24-hour service that enables users to place and receive calls through a professional American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter via a videophone and a high-speed internet connection.
Is there a free video phone for deaf people? ›
VRS is for people who use American Sign Language and use a webcam and the Internet or a videophone and high-speed Internet access. This is a free, federally reimbursed service and not part of the Relay Service. In an emergency, TTY users should directly dial 911.
How does VRI work? ›
Video remote interpreting (VRI) uses audio and video technologies to provide court users with spoken or sign language interpreting through a remote or off-site interpreter. On a case-by-case basis, the court will determine if a particular event is appropriate for VRI.
Is convo VRS free? ›
Like TRS calls, VRS is free to the caller. Convo and other VRS providers are compensated for their costs from the Interstate TRS Fund, which the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) oversees.
Are video relay services free? ›
Video Relay Service (VRS)
VRS is for people who use American Sign Language and use a webcam and the Internet or a videophone and high-speed Internet access. This is a free, federally reimbursed service and not part of the Relay Service.
Is Wavello free? ›
Wavello is a Video Relay call supported with video. Everyone on the call—the Deaf person, the hearing person, and the interpreter—can see by each other. Just like Video Relay, there is no cost to use Wavello.
How does Sorenson VP work? ›
VRS facilitates telephone communication between a Deaf and a hearing person in different locations through the use of videoconferencing technology. The Deaf person connects to an interpreter via a videophone and a high-speed internet connection.