TTY mode: we explain what's behind it

Many smartphones feature TTY mode, which makes it easier for hearing- and speech-impaired users to operate them. Telephonetypewriter mode allows mobile devices to be connected to external devices through which the smartphone can be operated. Furthermore, additional aids such as subtitles are activated on the device.

Using TTY mode

With TTY mode, speech- or hearing-impaired people can operate smartphones more easily and unlock special operating aids. TTY mode offers three different settings for the different needs of people with disabilities. The mode also allows external devices to be connected to the smartphone to facilitate operation. For this purpose, so-called writing phones are used, which can translate speech sounds into writing. If the TTY mode is available, it can be activated in the settings of your smartphone under "Operating aids".

The various setting options of the TTY mode

1. TTY Full: This setting is for people who cannot speak or hear. Here, only text input is used to communicate and subtitles are activated.
2. TTY HCO: The "Hearing Carry Over" mode is used by people who can hear but not speak. You can use the voice output and respond with a text input that is translated into speech.
3. TTY VCO: "Voice Carry Over" is for people who cannot hear but can speak. With the external write phone, you can use the text input during a phone call and hear the answers of the other party in normal form.