WebCapTel Update

Editor: Regular readers know that we're GIANT fans of WebCapTel, because it really opens up telephone access to folks with hearing loss. For those who don't know, this free service became available in early March. Here's NVRC with an update on how it's going!

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Since WebCapTel services were launched in early March by Hamilton Relay and Sprint, NVRC has seen a lot of consumer interest in this new technology. NVRC Technology Specialist Debbie Jones has even done demonstrations with a laptop computer on our kitchen counter!

CapTel, a service designed for individuals who have difficulty hearing on the telephone, provides captions similar to the closed captioning provided on most television programs to support the understanding of telephone conversations. There is no longer a need to buy a special telephone to use this service. WebCapTel makes it possible for individuals nationwide to make CapTel calls via the Web. WebCapTel works with any type of telephone and any type of Internet access device.

Below are the answers to several questions about WebCapTel that we've been asked. We thank Pam Holmes, Director of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs/CapTel Customer Service at Ultratec, Inc. for her responses.

Why aren't there answers to Frequently Asked Questions about WebCapTel at www.captionedtelephone.com?

A: The FAQs on WebCapTel are the Hamilton www.hamiltoncaptel.com and Sprint www.sprintcaptel.com CapTel websites rather than Ultratec's.

Who should be contacted about customer service for Web CapTel?

A: WebCapTel Customer Service can be reached at webcaptel@captelmail.com or 1-877-455-4227. CapTel Customer Service is providing the customer support for the new WebCapTel product.

Why doesn't WebCapTel have features like the ability to be phoned directly without an 800 number, which NVRC's report from a convention presentation said would be possible on IP CapTel?

A: The WebCapTel version released this month is the initial version launched. Like all exciting new technology, advancements will be introduced and new features can be expected over time. If you recall, when the first CapTel phones were introduced, all the features that are now available today in the CapTel 200 were not available. As an example, 2-Line CapTel became available later in this technology launch. During the presentations on IP CapTel, some of the possibilities that this technology holds were shared.

Why do Sprint and Hamilton registrations for WebCapTel require that your home address be provided before you can begin using WebCapTel?

A: Requiring registration allows for preparation to meet 9-1-1 requirements expected when the FCC releases its Report and Order on 9-1-1 access by Internet-based relay services.

Does WebCapTel current allow for 9-1-1 support?

A: No, WebCapTel does no support dialing 9-1-1 at this time.