Join the Real-Time Text Readiness Work Group
Print this Article | Send to Colleague
The FCC provided its Report and Order (R&O) regarding the transition to Real-Time Text (RTT) in late 2016 identifying a requirement for Tier 1 wireless carriers to provide at least one RTT capable handset option by December 31, 2017. In general, traffic generated by RTT capable handsets will be converted by the wireless carrier to TTY so legacy PSAPs can receive the call using legacy TTY devices through either E9-1-1 or transitional NG9-1-1 systems. As a service to be requested, currently there is no process to determine if a wireless carrier is RTT capable in a serving area, to verify that a NG9-1-1 PSAP is capable of receiving native RTT, and there is no criteria or method for the PSAP to notify the wireless carriers of their readiness.
Volunteers are sought to participate in the PSAP Guidelines for RTT Readiness Work Group. While no specific knowledge is necessary to join the work group, subject matter experts from the PSAP, carrier, accessibility, CPE, and network provider communities are desired to ensure the best understanding of industry needs for the creation of proper implementation guidelines.
The PSAP Guidelines for RTT Readiness Work Group plans to meet Fridays at 11AM Eastern, starting on October 5. Click here to join.
