Sign language translation app seeks to break down communication barriers

AMMAN — The locally developed SignBook application enables persons with hearing impairments to more easily communicate with their surroundings. 

The SignBook translator is a bilingual application, available for any smart device. It translates speech into international sign language through a video call with a sign language interpreter.

“I was inspired by my parents,” Ashraf Odeh, SignBook’s founder, told The Jordan Times. 

Odeh added that both his parents had disabilities, which they suffered from throughout their lives due to their inability to communicate or receive information. 

Odeh said that he found a need for persons with disabilities to communicate more efficiently with individuals who have not mastered sign language. 

Therefore, he had the idea of developing the SignBook application. 

“The application provides instant translation from Arabic to sign language,” he said. 

According to Odeh, there are sign language interpreters available 24/7 at their offices, the translators are professionally trained to translate any legal, educational or even a daily conversation into sign language once users sign in on the application.  

“The application is free of charge, and is now available for all users,” Odeh said, noting that the application does not require any additional add-ons or other purchases. 

“Languages were created to facilitate human beings’ communication, not to be an obstacle,” he said, adding that there’s an urgent need to include persons with disabilities in society.

Odeh added that the application mainly translates Arabic language into sign language through interpreters, although there is a possibility to translate English language into sign language as well. 

Users have to book an appointment in advance if they wish to translate English, said Odeh. 

 “The communication barriers between the hearing and non-hearing will hopefully be greatly diminished,” Odeh added.