Modern smartphones are equipped with a myriad of accessibility features, enabling individuals with disabilities to navigate their devices with ease. Among these, TTY mode stands out as a frequently neglected yet invaluable tool that significantly enhances voice-over-text communication, particularly aiding those with hearing or speech impairments. In this guide, we will delve into the essence of TTY mode, explore its functionality, and provide instructions on how to activate it on both Android and iOS devices.
Also Read: How to Turn off Incognito Mode on iPhone
What Is the Meaning of TTY Mode on Phones?
TTY, short for TeleTYpewriter, enables individuals who are hard of hearing or deaf to communicate via text over telephone lines. This device functions by translating tones into readable text for the recipient. Similarly, outgoing messages are transformed into tones and then reconverted into text for the receiving end.
In the past, a dedicated machine equipped with a keyboard and screen was necessary for this task. Today, however, you no longer need specialized hardware. Software-based TTY now provides the same capabilities directly on your phone.
This feature is easily accessible as an option for most Android and iOS smartphones. You’ll notice a variety of TTY settings to select from. Let’s explore what each of these options entails.
- TTY Full: In this format, communication between both parties is conducted exclusively through written text.
- TTY HCO (Hearing Carry Over): Opt for this feature if speaking is challenging for you. It enables you to listen to others during the call while responding to them via text messages.
- TTY VCO (Voice Carry Over): This feature is designed for individuals with hearing impairments. It allows them to communicate by speaking during the call and receive the other person’s replies in text form.
How to Enable TTY Mode on Android
Within the accessibility settings of the Phone app on an Android device, you’ll find the TTY mode. Follow these steps to activate it.
- Launch the dialer app on your phone.
- Tap on the three-dot icon located in the upper-right corner.
- Navigate to Settings and select Accessibility, then choose TTY mode.
- Select your desired option from TTY full, TTY HCO, or TTY VCO.
This accessibility feature may not be available in certain regions. If you encounter difficulty accessing it through the provided steps, consider searching for “TTY” in your phone’s Settings app.
How to Enable TTY Mode on iPhone
In contrast to Android, the iPhone’s TTY mode can be found in the iOS Settings app. Follow these steps to activate it.
- Launch the Settings application on your iPhone.
- Navigate to Accessibility, then select Hearing, and finally choose RTT/TTY.
- Activate the Software RTT/TTY switch here.
When you initiate a call, an RTT/TTY option will appear beside the contact’s name. Select this option to enable TTY mode for your current conversation. Keep in mind that the TTY feature is exclusive to plans from carriers in the United States and Canada. According to Apple’s support page, standard voice call rates still apply. Additionally, you can explore other newly introduced accessibility features for the iPhone here.
Here’s how to activate TTY mode on your smartphone. Although this feature did not appear on our iPhone in India, our attempt to test it on an Android device also failed. Regional restrictions prevented the option from being available on our iPhone. Nevertheless, if you have hearing or speech impairments and reside in the United States or Canada, we suggest you try this feature.
If you have any uncertainties or inquiries about this guide, feel free to reach out to us in the comments section below.