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Clarity Ensemble | Captioning Phone with ClearCaptions

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Image: Clarity
Image: Clarity

For many years now, TTY machines have been use by people who are deaf or hard of hearing to communicate over the phone. This system has an operator that types out messages that appear on a small screen. The operator can also verbally speak messages typed by a user if the other user is of hearing. But many people who still have some hearing don’t use TTYs. This can lead to conversations where misunderstandings or people are asked to repeat lines. Traditionally TTY screens can be hard to read for people that have low vision. For those people a landline telephone by Clarity might be a solution. Their Ensemble captioning phone has an amplified handset and tablet screen that displays large font captioning.

Captioning It
The Ensemble utilizes software from ClearCaptions which is similar a TTY system. Operated on a computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClearCaptions has an operator type out the captions. The operator does not verbally interpret anything since neither user is typing anything. Also ClearCaptions can only make outgoing calls.

Image: Clarity
Image: Clarity

3 in 1
So the Ensemble combines a landline, a tablet, and ClearCaptions into one unit. The handset speaker has an amplifier that can work with hearing aids for better audible hearing. The tablet screen is 7 inches high and shows the captioning in large adjustable font. Color and contrast on the screen is also adjustable. Once a conversation is over, the text can be saved for future referencing.

Image: Clarity
Image: Clarity

Delayed Reaction
Just realize that the captions do not come up in real time. Based on user reviews of the ClearCaptions software and apps, there is about a 5-10 second delay. Speed depends on the operator and processing of the software. So both parties should be aware of this going into a conversation.

Conclusion
Ensemble is a viable option to TTY machines for people that are hard of hearing and/or low vision. Just realize that there are limitations on speed and only calling out. Watch the promotional video above for more information and visit this link. For more on ClearCaptions visit www.ClearCaptions.com.