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.