A Chinese university has created a new AI tool to help include Deaf and Hard of Hearing people. The platform can translate text into sign language and also interpret sign language back into text. It uses virtual avatars and can work on phones or smart glasses, allowing people to communicate in real time. The project was developed by Su, a scientist who studies how technology can reduce discrimination. He and his students started a company called “Limitless Mind.” Some people questioned why such a tool is needed and asked why people cannot just type. Su explained that not everyone can read or write well, so sign language access is essential. Local governments and businesses are supporting the project because it has many practical uses. It could help students in school, patients talking with doctors, and employees communicating at work. By adding sign language access in more places, it may reduce discrimination. Su has worked on other helpful technology before. He previously created an AI “emotional companion” robot to help autistic children express their feelings. He hopes this new sign language translator will support Deaf children, adults, and caregivers as well. This project is especially important because a study predicts that by 2060, more than 240 million people in China will have moderate to severe hearing loss - double the number from 2015. AI may play an important role in Deaf inclusion in the future.

Netflix has added a new subtitle option for viewers who like or need captions. This update gives everyone - including Deaf and Hard of Hearing people - more ways to enjoy movies and shows. Netflix already had “SDH/CC” subtitles, which stands for Subtitles for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. These subtitles include spoken dialogue and sound cues. For example, they might say “doorbell rings,” “floor creaks,” or “music grows.” This helps viewers understand both the conversation and the background sounds. Netflix also offers a “CC” option that shows only spoken words without extra sound information. Some viewers prefer this simpler style. But Netflix didn’t stop there. The company is now adding multi-language subtitles, so people can watch shows in their own language. This will apply to all new shows, and over time, it will be added to older shows as well. Viewers can access these options by clicking the language control icon while watching. This update makes Netflix more accessible for both Deaf and hearing viewers around the world. It is especially helpful for Deaf and Hard of Hearing people who do not know English, because they can now read captions in their preferred language.