Sprint launches My Wireless STS service for people with speech disabilities

Sprint (NYSE: S) today has made it easier for individuals with speech disabilities to initiate calls using a wireless phone. Sprint's newly launched "My Wireless STS" service enables individuals with speech disabilities to simply dial a short wireless code - 787 - to place an operator-assisted call.    

A Speech to Speech (STS) operator listens to the conversation and repeats the words of the person with a speech disability to the other party. STS users can instruct the STS operator to repeat every word spoken or to simply repeat the words that are unclear. No special equipment is needed.

STS users can access the 787 service from anywhere in the country 24 hours a day, 365 days per year - and at no charge to the user.

"We are very excited to announce 787 - a service that's tailored to the needs of STS users," said Michael Ellis, Director, Sprint Relay. "We are the first in the industry to bring this service to market, and we're pleased to have developed it in collaboration with speech disabled communities across the country."

Sprint also offers "My Email Set-up" for STS users with access to email. "We know that some STS users may tire and speech may become more difficult during long calls. Our new Email Set-Up makes it easier," Ellis said. "To reduce the amount of energy needed to provide calling instructions, STS users can email that information directly to the STS operator 2 to 24 hours prior to the call. This can include information such as the number to be dialed, the name of the person being called, any special instructions and subject of the call, or anything that makes it easier for the STS user to complete the call."

Sprint also recently announced the availability of dedicated customer service for STS users. Sprint's STS support staff provides one-on-one assistance, training on the STS service and can assist STS users to register their calling preferences. The new STS support toll-free number is 1-877-787-1989.