Phone Accessibility Features and Plans: RTT, Captioned Calls and More

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Smartphones have become some of the most capable accessibility tools ever made. Real-time text lets you type during calls, automatic captions transcribe calls and videos, hearing features tune audio to your hearing, and screen readers and voice control make phones usable without sight or touch. Carriers also offer accessibility services and plans, if you know to ask.

This guide covers the major features and how to turn them on, the programs and plan options available, and devices that help. It's general information, not medical advice. A hearing or vision professional can recommend what fits your needs.

Deaf and hard of hearing

• Real-time text (RTT) sends text character by character during a call, including calls to 911 where supported. It's built into iPhone and many Android phones on major U.S. carriers, and it replaces older TTY devices. Turn it on in the phone's accessibility or call settings.
• Live captions: Android's Live Caption and iPhone's Live Captions can caption phone calls, video calls and media on-device.
• Captioned telephone service (IP CTS): FCC-supported services such as InnoCaption and CaptionCall provide captioned calls at no cost to eligible users who have hearing loss. Eligibility and registration are required.
• Video relay service (VRS) connects ASL users with hearing callers through an interpreter.
• Hearing aid compatibility (HAC): phones carry M (microphone) and T (telecoil) ratings. Higher ratings mean better performance with hearing aids.
• Hearing health features on some earbuds, such as the FDA-authorized hearing aid feature on AirPods Pro for mild to moderate hearing loss.

Blind and low vision

• Screen readers: VoiceOver on iPhone and TalkBack on Android read everything on screen aloud.
• Magnification, larger text, bold text and high contrast in display and accessibility settings.
• Voice assistants for calls, texts, reminders and navigation hands-free.
• AI description features that describe photos and surroundings using the camera, available on recent iPhones and Android phones, plus apps like Be My Eyes.

Speech, cognitive and mobility

• Voice Control and Voice Access let you operate the phone entirely by voice.
• Switch control works with external switches for limited mobility.
• Assistive Access (iPhone) and simplified Android launchers create a streamlined interface with large buttons.
• Live Speech and Personal Voice (iPhone) speak typed text aloud during calls and conversations.
• AAC apps (augmentative and alternative communication) turn a phone or tablet into a communication device.

Carrier accessibility services and plans

Major carriers have accessibility support teams that can help with RTT setup, device choices and plan options. Some carriers have offered data-focused or text-focused plans for Deaf and hard-of-hearing customers who don't use voice minutes. Ask the carrier's accessibility department directly, since these plans aren't always advertised. Lifeline may help eligible low-income households with service costs.

For simple phones and services built for older adults, see Consumer Cellular vs Lively and best simple phones for seniors.

Emergency access

Text-to-911 is available in many, but not all, areas in the U.S. Calling is still best where possible, and RTT calls to 911 are supported on major carriers where available. Set up Medical ID (iPhone) or emergency information (Android) so responders can see key health details from the lock screen. Crash and fall detection on some phones and watches can call for help automatically.

Setting it up: a quick checklist

1. Open Settings → Accessibility and explore each section. Many features have a quick-access shortcut.
2. Turn on RTT and Live Captions if calls are hard to hear.
3. Set text size, contrast and display options for comfort.
4. Set up Medical ID and emergency contacts.
5. Call your carrier's accessibility team with questions about plans and device compatibility.

Choosing an accessible phone

Both iPhone and Android offer excellent accessibility. The best choice is often the platform you or your helpers already know. Check HAC ratings if you use hearing aids, look for loud, clear speakers and good haptics, and consider simplified phones for users who find smartphones overwhelming. Try features in a store before buying if possible.

Help for family members and caregivers

If you help an older parent or family member with their phone, built-in tools make it easier. Family Sharing and Google Family Link can manage some settings, screen sharing through FaceTime or Google Meet lets you walk them through changes remotely, and simplified modes like iPhone's Assistive Access reduce confusion. Write down the settings you've changed, and set up emergency contacts together.

Accessibility and older phones

Accessibility features improve with each software version. If an older phone no longer receives updates, it may miss newer features like on-device call captions or AI image descriptions. When replacing a phone for accessibility reasons, choose one with long software support. See how long phones stay supported.

Where to get more help

Apple and Google both run accessibility support lines, and major carriers have accessibility departments. The FCC's Disability Rights Office handles accessibility complaints about phones and services.

Helpful devices