Broadband provider AOL has announced a new instant messaging (IM) service for the deaf and hard of hearing is being tested in America.

The service will work in real time, with each message being made visible as it is typed, rather than waiting for each user to press send, meaning those hard of hearing are able to respond in a manner more akin to a voice conversation.

"This is a big win for AOL and the deaf community since the use of real-time text is receiving increased attention as a necessary equivalent to voice communication for consumers with disabilities," commented Tom Wlodkowski, AOL's director of accessibility.

The research is being developed in conjunction with the Gallaudet University and the Trace Research and Development Centre at the University of Winconsin-Madison.

AOL also announced enhancements to its services at the Consumer Electronics Show earlier this month, including the development of BlueString - a free website allowing digital media management.

Wednesday, 16th January 2008

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