NexTalk Approved by the FCC as an IP CTS Provider: Meet SpeechPath
NexTalk was officially approved by the FCC as a provider of IP CTS (Internet Protocol Captioned Telephone Service). This milestone reflects NexTalk’s ongoing commitment to accessibility, and it expands how we can support people who are deaf or hard of hearing with a more reliable, independent way to make and receive phone calls.
What is IP CTS?
IP CTS stands for Internet Protocol Captioned Telephone Service. It’s a service that provides real-time captions of phone conversations for qualified individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. IP CTS is supported by the Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS) Fund, which means it is provided at no cost to qualified users.
Why FCC approval matters
IP CTS providers must complete a detailed process intended to support:
- Compliance with federal expectations for IP CTS
- Service reliability for users who depend on captions
- Quality and accountability in how captioning services are delivered
For users, that translates to confidence: IP CTS is a critical accessibility service, and FCC approval helps protect the integrity of that service.
How SpeechPath supports accessible calling
As part of this approval, NexTalk is leveraging SpeechPath, our IP CTS solution that delivers real-time phone call captioning on Windows desktops.
SpeechPath is designed for eligible users who self certify as hard of hearing.
For eligible users making phone calls on a Windows desktop, SpeechPath provides:
- Captions for both sides of the conversation
- A live transcript users can follow as the call happens
That matters in the moments where accuracy and clarity count. Whether it’s confirming an appointment time, understanding instructions from a provider, participating in a workplace conversation, or catching names and numbers that are easy to miss.
Everyday situations where captioned phone calls make a difference
Accessibility isn’t limited to one setting. Phone call captions can make a difference across daily life, including:
Work and professional communication
Phone calls still show up everywhere interviews, HR conversations, benefits questions, scheduling, customer interactions, and team coordination. Real-time captions help reduce miscommunication and make it easier to participate independently.
Healthcare and appointments
Healthcare conversations often include unfamiliar terms, medication names, test results, and follow-up instructions. Captions can help people feel more confident that they understood what was said, and what to do next.
Staying connected
Many people rely on phone calls to keep up with family, friends, and community. Captioned calls can remove a major barrier and make those connections easier to maintain.
What “quality” means in real-time captions
When people think about captions, they usually think about “Does it work?” In reality, two factors shape whether captions feel usable during a live phone call:
- Accuracy (how closely the captions match what was said)
- Speed (how quickly captions appear after someone speaks)
NexTalk’s focus is on delivering captions that are accurate and timely, so conversations feel more natural and easier to follow especially when speech is fast, technical, or complex.
Who can use SpeechPath?
SpeechPath is available to qualified individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing and meet IP CTS eligibility requirements. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, the best next step is to review SpeechPath details and connect with us at NexTalk for guidance on eligibility and getting started.
Looking ahead
FCC approval as an IP CTS provider is a key step in NexTalk’s broader mission: helping ensure communication is accessible and consistent so more people can handle everyday calls without unnecessary barriers.
We’re excited to continue expanding access to SpeechPath and supporting a future where every conversation is accessible.
Learn more about SpeechPath: https://www.nextalk.com/speechpath/
