Apple TV Signs On For Deaf Viewers

Apple TV is making significant strides in accessibility by integrating American and British Sign Language (ASL and BSL) interpretation for its streaming content. This new feature, launched with the Apple original film 'Being Heumann' on Friday, allows users to select sign language options through the Apple TV app settings.

Titles offering this service will be marked with a distinctive hand icon, appearing alongside other accessibility features like closed captions. The debut film, 'Being Heumann,' focuses on disability rights activist Judy Heumann, making it a fitting choice for this initiative. Additional titles, including 'F1,' 'Greyhound,' and 'Way of the Warrior Kid,' will also receive sign language support.

To further assist users, Apple TV has introduced a dedicated collection titled 'Movies & Shows with American Sign Language.' This curated list simplifies the discovery of content featuring sign language, including movies where it plays a narrative role, such as the Oscar-winning film 'CODA.' Users can also search for content using terms like 'with ASL' in the app's search bar.

Sarah Herrlinger, Apple's senior director of Global Accessibility Policy and Initiatives, stated that the company believes everyone should enjoy entertainment, and adding sign language interpretation is a key step towards inclusivity for Deaf audiences. Apple collaborated closely with the deaf community, partnering with Directors of Artistic Sign Language to ensure authentic and sensitive representation.