Telefonica launches speech recognition app for hard of hearing users

Telefonica has announced the launch of an app aimed at helping people with hearing difficulties to follow classes at schools and universities. The ‘Breaking Sound Barriers’ app uses voice recognition technology in multiple languages to subtitle teachers and lecturers in real time, while giving students the opportunity to ask questions via a forum and receive answers with pictures and captions. 

The app is completely free and available for Android or iOS smartphones and tablets. It was developed by Telefonica’s Talentum programme in partnership with Ericsson Spain and the Adecco Foundation.