Google Launches Interpreter App for Google+ Hangouts

Google recently released a wave of accessibility features for Chrome, Google Drive, Gmail, and Google+ Hangouts. The new features for Chrome, Drive, and Gmail focus on accessibility for low-vision and blind users to make navigating them easier with screen reading software. For Google+ Hangouts, Google released a Sign Language Interpreter App to allow deaf and hard of hearing users to more easily benefit from the use of an interpreter during a Hangout session.

Google+ Hangouts allow multiple users to video chat at the same time, regardless of where the users are located. With the Sign Language Interpreter App, a deaf or hard of hearing person can invite an interpreter to join the Hangout to interpret for him or her. With the App installed, the deaf user will always see the interpreter in the top right corner of his or her screen and, when the interpreter speaks for him or her, the interpreter becomes the focus for everyone else in the Hangout. The interpreter can then easily translate the conversation in both directions, while only being the focus when he or she needs to speak.

Video conferencing is a popular way for businesses to meet with partners and clients without having to spend too much on travel expenses. Google+ Hangouts are a convenient way to meet with international clients, as well as local contacts or employees who are unable to be physically present in the office. With the addition of the Sign Language Interpreter App, Google+ Hangouts are an effective way for both physically disabled and deaf employees to be involved in a company’s meetings.