TTY mode is quite useful feature in mobile phones. Using this, a person who can’t speak or speech related issues can now communicate with family, friends, or emergency services by sending text messages. But now people ask, in modern era when have messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Facebook messenger to communicate, then why do we still need a TTY device or TTY mode in phone.
Well, the answer regarding why is TTY mode needed, lies in inclusive technology and the convenience of communication for all. Let’s try to understand this with a practical concept below.
Difference between WhatsApp and TTY
Apps like WhatsApp work via the Internet, while TTY mode uses the traditional telephone network. A smartphone and an Internet connection are required to communicate on WhatsApp, but the TTY system works even without the Internet. That’s is the beauty of this mode and this is quite important for people who live in rural or remote areas where Internet connectivity is poor.
Also, TTY mode is specially designed for people who have difficulty in hearing or speaking. WhatsApp has the option of video calls or voice messages, but TTY supports direct text-based communication in real time, which may be more convenient for some users.
Apart from that, there are some circumstances when national or local government bans internet services. The reasons can be riots, attacks, cyber attacks, emergency, etc. Hence in that cases the modern messaging apps like WhatsApp, FB messanger, or telegram become useless and there TTY mode can only be a life saving feature. Countries like the USA, UK, Canada, give it priority and a number of people still use it during emergencies.
Real-world utility of TTY mode
TTY mode is widely used in countries like the US, UK, where it is legally mandatory to provide communication facilities for people with disabilities. TTY systems are used in hospitals, emergency helplines, and government services so that anyone can seek help without any hindrance.
Apart from this, elderly people who are not comfortable with new technology can also use a simple system like TTY. Many times in emergency situations when mobile networks fail, TTY becomes the only option for communication through landline and it is available in software form in new smartphones!
Is TTY mode still relevant?
Yes, TTY mode is still relevant today as it is a reliable and universal communication system. While WhatsApp and other apps depend on Mobile Data or Wi-Fi Internet, TTY mode works on basic telephone infrastructure, which is more stable and accessible. Experts believe that until the digital divide is completely eradicated from the world, the need for old but effective technologies like TTY will remain.
Conclusion
With the development of technology, we should not forget that not every section of the society is able to benefit from digital facilities equally. Technologies like TTY mode serve as a lifeline for those who cannot use mainstream communication channels. Therefore, the utility of TTY mode remains intact even today despite modern apps.
In the future too, it is important to focus on the development of inclusive technology so that no person is deprived of communication. If you liked this, please share it with others on social media platforms!
